RoofersCoffeeShop

In this RoofersCoffeeShop® Coffee Conversations, sponsored by Enviroshake, Heidi J. Ellsworth and a panel of industry leaders explore the evolving definition of roofing resilience in a changing world. As communities face greater weather-related risks, insurance requirements evolve and homeowners seek stronger, longer-lasting protection, the industry is being challenged to rethink traditional approaches to roof design and performance. Join us for a forward-looking discussion on how innovation, resilience standards and changing homeowner expectations are shaping the future of roofing while preserving the beauty and character homeowners value most. 

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In this RoofersCoffeeShop® Coffee Conversations, sponsored by Metal Construction Association (MCA), host Karen Edwards talks with industry leaders explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming metal construction, from manufacturing and production planning to quality control and supply chain management. Learn how AI-driven innovations are helping manufacturers improve productivity, forecasting and operational efficiency while delivering real-world benefits to roofing contractors, architects and building owners. Join us as we discuss how advancements in AI can improve material availability, shorten lead times, increase project predictability and help position the metal construction industry for long-term success.

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In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth joins Greg Williams of SOPREMA to discuss one of the most pressing challenges facing contractors today: getting more from every labor hour. From identifying where productivity is lost on the jobsite to exploring the characteristics of truly labor-efficient systems, they examine how product innovation, installation simplicity and smarter system design can help contractors improve quality while reducing complexity. The conversation also looks ahead at emerging trends that will shape labor efficiency over the next several years and offers practical recommendations contractors can implement right away to improve productivity and p...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards is joined by Brian Grohe from VELUX Commercial to explore what goes into planning successful commercial daylighting projects long before installation begins. From reviewing specifications and technical drawings to evaluating project requirements, coordinating stakeholders and selecting the right daylighting solution, they discuss the considerations that shape project outcomes from the very beginning. Whether you're working on new construction, a retrofit or considering commercial daylighting for the first time, this conversation offers practical insights into navigating the planning process with confidence.

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In the final installment of this four-part Roofing Road Trips series, Karen Edwards wraps up her conversation with Joe Sorrentino of Sorrentino Consulting LLC. and Andrew Fickinger from Sherwin Williams Roofing Solutions by exploring what should happen when contractors are wrapping up a restoration job. Joe and Andrew share the best practices that help ensure a restored roof delivers long-term performance and value. He also discusses the importance of routine inspections, addressing minor issues before they become major repairs and how maintenance programs can strengthen relationships between contractors and building owners. Tune in to learn why proper follow-up is...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Heidi Ellsworth sits down with Gerhard Hanke, interim CEO of Wienerberger AG, to explore how international collaboration is strengthening the future of roofing. They discuss Wienerberger’s long-standing relationship with the International Federation for the Roofing Trade, the importance of global industry leadership and the shared challenges facing roofing professionals. The conversation also highlights sustainability, resilience and workforce development along with the excitement surrounding the upcoming Young Roofers Competition. Tune in for a global perspective on the partnerships and investments shaping roofing’s next generation.-


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In this Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards is joined by Paul Leach, national sales manager at Tapco Roofing Products, and Daniel Whelan, general manager and technical advisor at Insullite Ltd., to explore the growing opportunities for composite roofing on low-pitch roofs. They discuss how lightweight composite slate can give contractors greater design flexibility while offering the appearance of natural slate without the same structural limitations. Paul and Daniel also share insights on installation efficiencies, weather performance and applications where composite products can help solve common low-pitch roofing challenges. Tune in to learn how modern composite roofing solutions are opening n...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth visits the 3M Innovation Center in Minnesota to talk with Randy Morgan about the evolving role of roofing granules. From helping prevent black algae streaks to supporting cool-roof performance and reducing smog, they explore how granule technology is helping roofs do more than protect a building. Contractors will learn how these innovations can add performance, environmental value and stronger talking points to the roofing systems they offer.

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In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi Ellsworth sits down with Matt Dealy and Andrew Morrison from SOPREMA’s Building Envelope Waterproofing team to discuss the growing momentum behind waterproofing and the trends driving demand. They explore why waterproofing is becoming increasingly important, how contractors can expand their services and how roofing and waterproofing systems work together across the building envelope. Listeners will also learn how a broader approach to waterproofing can help contractors respond to evolving customer and market needs.

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In this episode of Stories From The Roof, Megan Ellsworth sits down with Cameron Null from Damschroder Roofing, Inc. and Mike Gottron of Engineered Systems to discuss not only their award-winning collaboration that earned them the Duro-Last Project of the Year Award but, also their story as roofing professionals. They share how their companies built a strong partnership leading to exceptional results both on and off the jobsite. Dive into the story behind the Minerva Middle School roofing project, a shining example of top-tier craftsmanship, innovation, and teamwork. Listen as they share how their partnership brought a complex installation...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Karen Edwards sits down with Peter Pichini from RPH for a discussion on the value of planning commercial roof penetrations before new equipment, upgrades or other rooftop changes take place. From protecting building-envelope integrity to addressing complex rooftop conditions, they explain how early collaboration and technical expertise can help contractors work through challenging details before the first cut is ever made.

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You won't want to miss this special Coffee Conversations, sponsored by Western Colloid, coming to you LIVE from the Western Roofing Expo! Join us on day one of the show, Monday, September 28, 2026, at 2 p.m. PT, as we sit down with industry leaders and experts Greg Halavarty of Western Colloid, Marc Hansen of JobNimbus, and Ron Lloyd of Kokua Roofing and the WSRCA. Representing perspectives from across the Western U.S., they share their insights and perspectives live from the trade show floor. We'll discuss the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the roofing industry today, along with what contractors...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth sits down with Rich Trewyn and Amy Staska from National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) to discuss the NRCA’s Fall Protection Trainer Course for Roofing. They explore why effective fall-protection education matters to roofing contractors, the challenges companies face when building a strong safety-training program and how the course supports people responsible for training roofing workers. The conversation also examines what participants can expect from the course and how contractors can determine whether it is the right educational opportunity for their teams. Listeners will learn how NRCA’s Fall Protection Train...

In this Roofing Road Trips episode, Megan Ellsworth sits down with Weatherproofing Technologies, Inc (WTI) Field Resources Supervisor, Eric Benson, to talk about career growth, training and development in the roofing industry. Eric’s path from tech to foreman to supervisor offers listeners a firsthand look at how WTI supports employees who want to grow in their careers. Listeners will hear what helped Eric advance, what he has learned along the way and what advice he has for others considering a career with WTI. 

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In this Roofing Road Trips episode, Megan Ellsworth sits down with Weatherproofing Technologies, Inc (WTI) Field Resources Supervisor, Eric Benson, to talk about career growth, training and development in the roofing industry. Eric’s path from tech to foreman to supervisor offers listeners a firsthand look at how WTI supports employees who want to grow in their careers. Listeners will hear what helped Eric advance, what he has learned along the way and what advice he has for others considering a career with WTI. 

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On this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth is joined by Jordan Loudon of RICOWI and Andre Desjarlais from Oak Ridge National Lab to discuss the organization’s upcoming Fall 2026 Seminar and Meetings. We’ll explore RICOWI’s longstanding relationship with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and how research, field investigations and real-world data help roofing professionals better understand roof system performance. Jordan and Andre will also highlight some of the key topics attendees can expect to explore at this year’s seminar and the practical takeaways they can bring back to their businesses. We’ll discuss the value of connecti...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Megan Ellsworth sits down with Kristin Case, managing partner, commercial roofing division at Hi-Peak Staffing, to talk about what roofing contractors need to know as hiring activity shifts across the industry. Kristin shares what she is seeing from the company side of recruitment, why field roles remain a major focus and how culture can shape the way contractors attract and keep the right people. Tune in to hear her perspective on where the market is moving and what contractors can do to stay ready for the season ahead.

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In this episode of the Roofing Road Trips® podcast, Megan Ellsworth sits down with Jesse Parkinson from IKO to discuss how contractor events, practical education and strategic partnerships can help roofing companies build stronger businesses. They explore IKO’s approach to hands-on learning, its partnership with Clemson University and ways residential roofers can expand into metal and commercial roofing. The conversation also highlights the ROOFPRO program and how partner discounts and member resources can provide added value for contractors looking to grow.

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In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth sits down with Ralph Bruno, President and CEO of Tando Composites, to explore how industry-disrupting brands are built. Drawing on his experience with Trex, AZEK, and Tando Composites, Ralph shares the roadmap behind creating category-defining products, educating the market and making those products easy to buy. They discuss how this strategy is being applied to TandoStone® and Beach House Shake® and how these brands can create new opportunities for contractors and siding installers. Discover how Tando Composites is unique and how its category-defining products can help contractors differentiate their bus...

In this Read Listen Watch® episode, Megan Ellsworth chats with Brynn Wildenauer of Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings about the emerging color trends shaping the future of metal roofing. Drawing from Sherwin-Williams' latest SHIFT™ color forecast, Brynn shares insights into the colors gaining momentum, the market influences driving customer preferences and what contractors need to know to stay ahead of evolving design trends. From curb appeal and architectural style to homeowner demand and long-term product selection, color is becoming an increasingly important part of the roofing conversation. Tune in to learn how understanding future color trends can help you guide customers wit...

On this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Heidi J. Ellsworth sits down with Duane Musser and Brad Stine of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) to discuss the latest developments shaping the roofing industry's advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C. From key takeaways following Roofing Day in D.C., to workforce development initiatives, housing-related legislation and the current state of the midterm elections, the conversation explores the issues that matter most to roofing contractors. Tune in to hear how these policy discussions and advocacy priorities could influence the future of the roofing industry and what contractors should be p...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips, Megan Ellsworth welcomes Alisha Vobian and Chris Ronk from MuleHide for a conversation all about training, growth and opportunity in the low-slope roofing market. Together, they discuss the biggest training needs facing contractors today, how manufacturers can help steep-slope contractors make the transition into low-slope work and why hands-on education is key to better installations, stronger productivity and warranty compliance. Alisha and Chris also highlight MuleHide’s training center network, explain how training can be tailored for everyone from new workers to seasoned contractors and share examples of the positive impact MuleHide tr...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards sits down with Jamie Pillitteri, Director of Exteriors Product Management at ServiceTitan, to discuss what today's evolving insurance landscape means for roofing contractors. From inspections and estimating to claim approvals and project closeout, they explore where delays commonly occur, how disconnected workflows can impact productivity and profitability and what contractors can do to create a more streamlined process. Tune in to learn how roofing companies are connecting field and office operations, improving visibility throughout the claims journey and keeping insurance projects moving forward.

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In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth sits down with Jim Leslie to discuss his journey through the home services industry and why Home Service Freedom was created. They explore the vision behind Freedom 2026 and the most important lessons Jim has learned from years of working with home service business owners. Jim also shares what contractors can expect from the conference, the value of its speakers and educational opportunities and how attending can help owners identify new possibilities for their businesses.

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In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards sits down with Lauren Marsh, president and co-founder of Ridgeline Construction, to talk about leadership, growth and building a roofing company with strong values at its core. Since co-founding Ridgeline Construction in 2012, Lauren has helped grow the company across multiple states while earning industry certifications and recognition along the way, including being named a finalist for the 2026 QXO Female Roofing Professional of the Year. She shares insights from her journey as a contractor and business leader, including the importance of ethical leadership, investing in workforce education and creating a foundation f...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards sits down with Jennifer George, co-founder and CEO of Northern Arizona Roof Services and a finalist for QXO's North American Female Roofing Professional of the Year award. Jennifer shares her journey from serving as executive director of the Arizona Roofing Contractors Association (ARCA) to leading a successful roofing company focused on both business growth and community impact. They discuss leadership, industry advocacy, creating opportunities for others and what it takes to build a company culture centered on service. Jennifer also offers her perspective on the evolving role of women in r...

On this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Karen Edwards sits down with Deni Blair and Bryan Oram of JobNimbus to explore what helps roofing companies create momentum and sustain growth in a competitive market. Through the lens of a practical business framework, they discuss common challenges contractors face, opportunities that are often overlooked and the systems that can make a bigger impact than many realize. Tune in for insights on building a stronger business and a preview of the ideas shaping conversations at JNSS 2026.

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On this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Heidi Ellsworth sits down with Monica Murphy Mittel of Ray Nolan Roofing to discuss why LEGALCon Live 2026 has become a must-attend event for roofing professionals looking to strengthen and protect their businesses. Together, they explore the legal, business, workforce and risk management challenges facing contractors today and share how industry-focused education can help companies make smarter decisions and stay ahead in an increasingly complex business environment.

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In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Karen Edwards welcomes Mike Bothman of Wil-Mar for a conversation about one of the roofing industry's most overlooked components. Together, they discuss the materials, performance characteristics and quality standards that can influence the long-term success of a pipe collar. If you've ever wondered what separates one pipe collar from another and if it matters, this episode will give you a new perspective on the details that can impact long-term roof performance.

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In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth sits down with Mitch Heitsch, director of sales for roofing solutions at Westlake Royal Building Products, to discuss the sales strategies that help contractors build trust, communicate value and close more business. Mitch shares how deep product knowledge, strong market awareness and meaningful industry relationships can turn a traditional sales conversation into a consultative experience. From positioning high-performance products like Unified Steel to using training, technical support and a broader product portfolio, this conversation offers practical insights for contractors looking to strengthen their sales approach and become trusted advisers to t...

In this RoofersCoffeeShop® Coffee Conversations, sponsored by WTI, host Megan Ellsworth is joined by Mandy McIntyre, CM development manager at Weatherproofing Technologies Inc.; Kara (Houck) McCaffrey, chief wellness officer at Houck Group, Inc.; and McKay Daniels CEO of National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) for an important discussion on suicide prevention in construction. Mental health is an essential part of workplace safety, especially in construction, where suicide rates remain significantly higher than the general population. Together, they will address common myths, signs that someone may need support and how to start difficult but potentially life-saving conversations. The panel will also ex...

Private Equity and Industry Consolidation How PE money is reshaping competition Risks and opportunities for independent contractors Preparing your business for acquisition or defense

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In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards is joined by Baker Kuehl of Soylei to talk about the opportunity that exists between roof repair and roof replacement. Many contractors encounter aging roofs that aren't failing but aren't ideal candidates for immediate replacement either, leaving homeowners with limited options and contractors with little opportunity to add value. Learn how APEX-1132™ can help fill that gap with a maintenance service that creates new revenue opportunities, strengthens customer relationships and gives homeowners a responsible way to maintain qualifying roofs. They also discuss how to identify the right candidates, communicate realistic exp...

On this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Heidi J. Ellsworth sits down with Jon Goodman of National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and Gary Howes of The Durable Slate Company to discuss an exciting opportunity that could put the next generation of roofing talent on the world stage in Budapest. Learn how roofing contractors can help young professionals showcase their skills and represent Team USA at the World Championship for Young Roofers in a competition that highlights craftsmanship, workforce development and the future of the roofing industry. Whether you're focused on building your workforce pipeline or creating new opportunities f...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards sits down with Jesse Sutton from Versico Roofing Systems to explore the growing opportunity of roofing re-cover projects. They discuss how VersiFleece® membranes and Flexible DASH® adhesive help simplify re-cover installations, reduce labor demands and provide a practical solution for extending roof life while minimizing disruption. Contractors will learn the advantages of the re-cover approach and how innovative materials are helping crews improve efficiency and project outcomes.

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In this episode of Roofing Road Trips, Heidi Ellsworth sits down with Dimitri Volkmann, vice president of product marketing at Eagleview and Chris Sanson, COO of Cox Roofing. They talk about Eagleview One™ and how it's changing the way roofing contractors access and use roof data. They dig into the platform's origin story, why high-resolution imagery and quick precise measurements matter and examine how interactive 3D models are replacing the flat PDF-only workflow with something far more dynamic. The conversation also covers Eagleview One's subscription model, real-world use cases and custom reports, and why this platform is built to be...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Heidi J. Ellsworth visits with Dana Castle, Kaitlyn Briggs and Candice Palansky from Green Link, Inc. to learn more about how the company is serving the roofing and HVAC markets with rooftop support systems that help protect roofs, equipment and buildings. They talk about why rooftop support is such an important part of commercial construction and dive into how the right systems can make a difference for contractors and building owners. Drawing on their insights from both HVAC and roofing, they share what roofing professionals should understand when working alongside HVAC t...

 In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards sits down with owner of Corona's Roofing LLC, Soledad Hernandez-Cano, Mindy Dahlquist and Ben Anderson of TRA Snow and Sun to explore snow retention from a contractor's perspective. They discuss training experiences, product usage and the challenges contractors face when incorporating snow retention into roofing projects. The conversation also highlights the value of education in helping contractors better understand snow retention solutions and apply that knowledge in the field. Listen to the full episode to discover how snow retention education, training and hands-on product experience can help contractors deliver safer, mo...

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards continues her conversation with Joe Sorrentino of Joe Sorrentino LLC. & Andrew Fickinger from Sherwin Williams in part three of this four-part series on roof restoration. This episode focuses on proper installation and why manufacturer specifications and correct application techniques are critical to a successful restoration. Joe and Andrew also discuss how weather and jobsite conditions can impact processes, the quality control measures contractors should be following and the importance of ongoing training. Whether you're new to restoration or looking to improve your process, you'll gain practical insights to help deliver l...