Out of the Hourglass

This week we are re-releasing an episode originally published in May of 2024 with Michael Murray, he Founder and President at Textbook Painting in Cleveland, OH. As we thinking about planning and budgeting for 2026, we thought it was timely to revisit the topic of hiring overseas talent and how you can build that into your organizational growth to support your scaling teams. 

Be sure to check out the show notes for tools & hiring platforms below from the podcast!

Job Postings & VA Hiring Services

https://www.onlinejobs.ph/

Nolan Consulting Group Coach, Eamon Lynch shares lessons from scaling operations at a billion-dollar remodeling company and applying those systems to smaller trades businesses. From bay window sales gone wrong to the critical handoffs between sales and operations, Eamon breaks down why "we say a lot of things" isn't good enough and how to build accountability that scales. Learn his approach to cross-departmental meetings and the communication strategies that turn chaos into consistent growth.

When the Summer days start fading, we start planning! Today we’re diving into the importance of starting your 2026 planning now - at the very least, getting those dates on the calendar in October or November. From vision setting and SWOT analysis to identifying Planning Discussion Items and breaking them into 90-day action steps, we explore the tools and structure that make planning retreats impactful. We also discuss the balance between big-picture dreaming and practical integration, and why getting out of the office fuels creativity.

Join us as we welcome Gavin Hepp, Co Founder of Webfoot Home Improvements and newest addition to the Nolan Sales Coaching team. Gavin shares his passion for "Setting the Table" - the critical foundation of every successful sales interaction that makes customers comfortable and sets clear expectations from the start. We dive deep into practical communication strategies, and discuss how to leverage texting effectively with clients and avoid the dreaded "ghosting" through structured follow-up processes. 

Back in 2022, we sat down with Sheldon Stewart, Owner & President of Stewart Painting to talk about his early journey building a board of directors—well, we're back for round two to see how things have actually played out! This time we're joined by Sheldon's daughter Shayla Wilkinson, who's now wearing two hats as both marketing manager and board member, and they have made great progress. From navigating family business dynamics to mapping out a succession plan that'll bring in two outside board members by 2028, Sheldon and Shayla give us the real scoop on what it's actually like to evolve fr...

In this episode, Molly sits down with Ryan Reber from Safety Reports by Align Ops to discuss the critical importance of safety in the construction industry and how digital technology is transforming traditional safety programs. They explore practical implementation strategies for safety software, getting field teams on board, and turning safety from a compliance burden into a competitive advantage using emerging safety technologies like AI and predictive analytics, that protects workers and improves business outcomes

Click here to learn more about Safety Reports

To connect with Ryan :ryan.reber@busybusy.com 

In this episode of Out of the Hourglass, Molly sits down with Paul Grenci, President & Co-Founder of Red Key Solutions, to discuss the critical cybersecurity threats facing small businesses today. Paul reveals how automated hacking has made even 5-6 employee companies vulnerable targets and shares why 60% of businesses that experience a significant cyber event fold within six months. From multi-factor authentication basics to building a security-first culture from the top down, he offers practical advice that can help small businesses survive and thrive as they scale their operations.

In this powerful conversation, Bill Drysdale, former General Manager of Fujifilm's $500M digital camera division and current Vistage Chair, opens up about the reality of CEO isolation and the "heavy backpack" of leadership responsibilities. Bill shares how he felt isolated despite being surrounded by colleagues and discusses the three major challenges that create the deepest isolation for CEOs - people decisions, financial strain, and legal/ethical issues. Drawing from his experience facilitating peer advisory groups, Bill reveals how vulnerability and peer connection can transform both decision-making and business performance, offering practical insights for leaders ready to break through isolation.<...

Lisa DeMaria, founder of Utopia HR Solutions, joins us to discuss strategic compensation planning and employee retention for small to mid-sized businesses in the trades industry. We explore how to create competitive compensation packages that go beyond salary, including flexible benefits, performance-based incentives, and structured development programs that help retain top talent. Lisa shares practical insights on simplifying HR processes, tracking key metrics for success, and building a culture of growth through mentoring and individual development plans.

To connect with Lisa or learn more about Utopia HR Solutions, visit https://www.utopiahr.com/

Join us as we sit down with Mike Freeman, Co-Founder of Mike's Quality Painting and One Day Concrete Coatings, and newest Associate Coach with Nolan Consulting Group. From starting a lawn mowing business with his brother at age 11 to building multiple successful ventures in Albuquerque, Mike shares his journey of creating opportunity-driven businesses that operate without constant owner involvement. He discusses how he successfully transitioned day-to-day operations while focusing on real estate investments and coaching, demonstrating the importance of strategic partnerships and complementary risk tolerances. Mike's story shows how prioritizing relationships, embracing calculated risk, and building the right systems...

Implementing robust safety practices creates a powerful dual advantage—protecting your most valuable asset, your people, while simultaneously driving business growth and opportunity. Paul Cook and Darren Lottes of Painters USA and pioneers of Safety within the Summit group,  share field-tested insights on transforming safety from a compliance burden into a strategic cornerstone that builds team trust, reduces costs, and creates competitive differentiation. This is about creating an environment where protection and production reinforce rather than compete with each other. 

Summit Members interested in Safety Certification, please contact Jen Ware, Jen@nolancg.com

In this episode, Colin Nolan shares the importance of transforming objections into opportunities by mastering the art of uncovering customer pain. Discover why the most successful objection handling happens during discovery, not at the end of the sales process, and learn practical techniques to leverage emotional buying motives when facing resistance. If you're struggling with closing deals, this conversation reveals why the solution lies in how you open them.

Brian Nolan, Co-founder and President of Nolan Consulting Group, and Business Coach Sydney Bates discuss  the rollout of the NEW Hourglass Scorecard, a dynamic assessment tool for trades businesses focused on building value and growth. They explain how this updated version of the Business Systems Checklist helps identify a company's current status and future goals, helps align expectations and develop customized strategies for companies at different revenue stages.  It sets the stage for REAL implementation opportunities. 

Actually provides weight to the systems you’re looking to implement and the value of those opportunities

To...

Ever wonder how to find a financial advisor who really 'gets' your business? Join us as we chat with Michael Pallozzi of HFM Investment Advisors about navigating the financial advisory landscape as a small business owner. Michael shares his practical wisdom on why the right advisor should understand both your business and personal goals, how to spot red flags when interviewing potential advisors, and why having your wealth management and business planning under one roof creates powerful opportunities.

To learn more about HFM Investment Advisors, check out https://hfmadvisors.com/

Sarah Adkins, owner of Big Shark Marketing, discusses the evolution of digital marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of adapting to AI-powered search and creating high-quality, authoritative content. She highlights the challenges businesses face in keeping up with marketing trends and offers advice on optimizing websites, utilizing AI tools, and implementing niche marketing approaches

To learn more or connect with Sarah Adkins, check out https://bigsharkmarketing.com/ 

Crisis planning should be non-negotiable for every business owner, regardless of age or company size. On today’s episode with Brian Nolan we  discuss why having a comprehensive crisis plan isn't just about preparing for worst-case scenarios, but a strategic tool that protects your business, provides peace of mind, and ensures your team (and family) can confidently navigate unexpected challenges in your absence.

Whether it be a tough conversation you need to have with an employee or  need to de-escalate an issue or job gone awry  with a customer, we are unlocking the tools to better prepare ourselves for the dynamic of crucial conversations. With a passion for this topic, NCG Sr. Business Coach Colin is here to share key points from “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking when the Stakes are High” with practical application to the relationships and conflicts we often encounter. 

Discover the importance of Plan B Budgeting with Kathryn Freeman, Senior Business Coach and Director of Operations, as we transition from Q1 to Q2. Learn why financial contingency planning is essential in today's market conditions and how having alternative budget scenarios ready can help business owners navigate uncertainty with confidence and be better leaders. 

For many businesses who experience the swing of seasonality, the wheels of the busy season are quickly starting to roll and it’s a great time to ensure your production team is prepared to lead effectively. 

We released an episode focusing on Job Site Leadership as a workshop preview back in December 2023 for one of our upcoming programs at the time. As we think about getting our field teams in the headspace to manage jobs, customers and employees- it is the perfect time for a re-release!  Today we are revisiting that valuable conversation about Job Site Lead...

In this episode, we sit down with Dan Brady, owner of Dan Brady Painting and Adventure North Vacation Rentals, to explore his journey from CEO of Painting business to real estate investor. Dan shares how he built a thriving short-term rental business generating seven figures in annual revenue while maintaining his successful painting company in Northern Michigan. Discover the strategies, challenges, and creative solutions Dan employed when expanding into real estate, including his approach to property selection, renovation, and management. Whether you're considering diversifying your business or curious about the vacation rental market, Dan's practical insights and experience offer...

This impactful conversation with Eric Tilghman, CEO of Tilghman Builders, walks us through his transformative journey  over the last 10 years of becoming more intentional, goal-driven and embracing "the ideal day" concept that revolutionized his leadership approach.

Eric offers practical insights on how this mindset shift has enhanced both his leadership approach and Tilghman Builders' company culture Whether you're looking to enhance your leadership, improve work-life integration, or build a stronger company culture, Eric's candid experiences offer a blueprint for translating personal philosophy into leadership success.

Nolan Consulting Group Co-Founder & President, Brian Nolan, explores the multifaceted dimensions of effective leadership - How do YOU show up as a Leader? Brian breaks down how leaders can better understand their personal leadership style through strengths identification, Working Genius assessments, DISC profiles, adapting to team needs and understanding blindspots. Discover practical frameworks to help you recognize blind spots and show up as your best leadership self.

In this episode, our three guests - Brian Nolan, Sydney Bates & Maureen Richard - explore how principles from Will Guidara’s "Unreasonable Hospitality" can transform workplace culture beyond the restaurant industry. They discuss the critical distinction between basic service and genuine hospitality, emphasizing the importance of hiring for cultural fit and values over technical skills alone. The conversation highlights how leadership teams must prioritize caring for employees as the foundation for exceptional customer experiences, with practical insights on developing a unique company "way" that empowers team members to deliver personalized acts of kindness.

Brandon Pierpont, Founder & CEO of Painter Marketing Pros and recipient of the PCA’s 2025 Industry Partner of the Year award, reveals game-changing strategies for painting contractors, including the critical role of Google Business Profile and Local Service Ads. Learn valuable tips about building a sustainable marketing blueprint, understanding ROI, and implementing effective digital strategies that can transform your painting business's growth trajectory.

Connect with Brandon: Brandon@paintermarketingpros.com 

Check out the Diagnostic Assessment: https://diagnostic.paintermarketingpros.com/  

What does it actually mean to get OUT of the hourglass? It’s a phrase we speak to often here at Nolan Consulting Group and a core part of our mission statement. We released an episode on this topic back in July 2022 and its relevancy today remains at the forefront of conversations we continue to have with new clients and existing as they grow their businesses. 

In this episode  re-release, Brian Nolan, President & Co-Founder of Nolan Consulting Group explains what it means to be stuck in the hourglass, in a variety of scenarios, and how...

Jim Bradley, Business Coach at Nolan Consulting Group opens up about his ongoing love of learning, including what pushed him to go after his doctorate in business. Molly and Jim share insights about different learning approaches and discuss how to effectively balance theoretical knowledge with practical application - we know both are critical for success. They round out the conversation by offering valuable resources and recommendations for those looking to embrace continuous learning in their own lives.

Jim Bradley, Business Coach at Nolan Consulting Group opens up about his ongoing love of learning, including what pushed him to go after his doctorate in business. Molly and Jim share insights about different learning approaches and discuss how to effectively balance theoretical knowledge with practical application - we know both are critical for success. They round out the conversation by offering valuable resources and recommendations for those looking to embrace continuous learning in their own lives.

Join us as we dive deep into the crucial distinction between Accounting and strategic financial management with Senior Business Coach, Kathryn Freeman. Discover why looking at your business finances purely through an accounting lens might be holding you back, and learn how to adopt a more strategic approach that goes beyond tax compliance and historical transactions. We explore real-world examples of how this shift in perspective can transform your decision-making, from equipment purchases to cash flow management, helping you build a more financially sustainable business for the long term.

In this episode we dive into the Ins  and Outs of Social Media Marketing for Small Business in 2025 with Shannon Hinderberger & Darlene Veenhuizen, the co-founders of Dash Content Collective. From highlighting challenges they see in the content creator space, to the increasing need to create authentic video content and how to capture audience attention, we focus on the importance of strategy and adapting to the ever-changing social media landscape. To learn more on this topic, check out their upcoming workshop “ Think Like a Content Creator” 

Date: January 28, 2 PM PST (will be LIVE for Q&A and...

We are kicking off 2025 and the first podcast of the year with a focus on The Experience Mindset, Changing The Way You Think About Growth, a book by Tiffani Bova.

This is a read that several of us here at Nolan Consulting Group really enjoyed, it was part of an internal Book Club  and we thought it was worthwhile to bring to the podcast table as an entry point for 2025. The book examines how Customer Experience (CX) and Employee Experience (EX) are intricately intertwined and interdependent - and it’s those companies that recognize thi...

In this episode of Out of the Hourglass, Brian Nolan, Jim Bradley, and Molly Nolan delve into the trades industry's evolving landscape, and the influence of private equity on small business transitions. They announce the February launch of the Sellers & Acquisition Peer Group, designed to support business owners navigating valuation, sale preparation, and post-sale planning. The conversation explores the emotional and strategic aspects of exiting a business, the growing appeal of the trades, and the importance of building a network of advisors to maximize business value.

In this episode of Out of the Hourglass, Molly sits down with Ross Hartmann, founder of Kiingo AI, to explore the transformative potential of AI and generative AI for small businesses. They discuss practical applications of tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, emphasizing strategies to integrate AI into company culture, optimize efficiency, and maintain brand authenticity in AI-generated content. With insights into AI's capabilities, limitations, and the importance of hands-on training, Ross offers a roadmap for leveraging AI to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and elevate both customer and employee experiences. This conversation sets the stage for the exciting future...

Our  conversation this week features Travis Ulrich, the CEO and co-founder of Webfoot Home Improvements based in Bend, OR. A few weeks ago, Travis shared with his Mastermind Group that Webfoot experienced a random, very extensive and unexpected OSHA Audit. Today - we’re hearing about the experience straight from Travis - how it happened, what went down,  what the process was like and we’ll spend some time talking about their safety program. The culture of the Webfoot Way prioritizes safety and they’ve made a point to implement this practice over the last 10 years, through ups, downs and vari...

Join Mike Shannon and Molly Nolan as they delve into the transformative power of self-awareness in sales. They explore the role of mindset, emotional control, and belief systems in driving success, with insights from the Objective Management Group's assessments. Hear how overcoming limiting beliefs and setting clear expectations can unlock sales potential, and learn about the upcoming workshop in December, Mastering the Mindset, designed to help sales professionals improve performance and prepare for a successful year ahead.

Join us as we dive into the planning season with Molly Nolan and Jay Rogers. We’re speaking to what we’re seeing and how we’re involved with our clients; from budgeting tools, conversations and planning site visits, the essentials of effective business planning. We want to set the tone on the importance of this practice and empower teams through intentional goal-setting. Discover why getting aboard the planning schedule now can make all the difference in navigating growth, clarity, and team alignment for a successful year ahead!

Step into the Coaching Room with Sales Coach Mark Repkin and two high performing Sales Leaders, Mike Green from Fitzpatrick Painting & Josh Cornell from Kennedy Painting, as they share real-world insights on effective selling strategies. In this episode, we explore the importance of preparation, engagement, value of quantifying competency, utilizing coaching sessions, and creating tailored one-on-one coaching experiences. Whether you're a seasoned leader or new to sales management, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on elevating your approach. You’ll get to hear, in real time, the challenges that Mike & Josh are currently working through and Mark’s feedback and reco...

Kim Merryman, Vice President of Central Oregon Garage Door and Kyle Fetzer, President,  discuss their journey to becoming co-owners of Central Oregon Garage Door in April 2024. Highlighting the importance of trust, values alignment, and trusted advisors through this venture, Kim and Kyle share the timeline of closing the deal, the challenges and risks weighed and their future plans for the business. Their acquisition story is one of a roller coaster - ups and downs and unknowns along the way, it was their team of people and the culture of the organization that kept bringing them back every time.  

We’re thrilled to welcome Jaclyn Rogers, Client Relations Manager at Ai Painting Plus in Columbia,MO , to today’s episode for a conversation focusing on her transition from retail management to the painting industry and her emphasis on providing an exceptional client experience. Known for her organic authenticity, Jacyln thrives off intentional, genuine connections within the relationships she makes and continues to foster. This has catapulted her business development success, in the most natural way and I wanted to know how she does it all!  From balancing multiple networking groups and commitments, to generating leads for the business and m...

We are welcoming back Kevin Nolan, Former CEO of Nolan Painting & Co- Founder of Nolan Consulting Group to discuss a pretty momentous point in his life - On September 21st, Kevin celebrated his 65th birthday AND his official retirement from Nolan Painting. 

As he said in his speech and in today’s episode, it is time to pass the baton onto the next generation. This has been a well thought out, intentional exit from the business, something Kevin put in action 10+ years ago. He talks all about it Chapter 14 of his book Organizational Muscle, Exi...

With over 40 years of experience in both B2B and B2C sales, Jeff Cramer, a seasoned Sales Professional and Coach, has seen it all. Now, he uses his extensive knowledge to help sales representatives and managers in their personal and professional growth. We're excited to have him on this week's episode to discuss his coaching philosophy, which emphasizes balanced conversations, self-awareness, and objective feedback. Jeff's focus on fostering a "growth mindset" and continuous development in sales is central to his approach. He works with versatility and genuine care, helping individuals recognize their strengths and areas for improvement, while...