Mission Control Podcast

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Mike spoke with Thais Saenz, founder of Saenz Global Roofing Admin Professionals, about scaling roofing contractors by handling the back-office chaos they don't want to deal with. From bootstrapping on zero funding to building a team that supports 200+ people, Thais breaks down how Saenz Global went from a general VA service to a hyper-focused roofing operations powerhouse. You'll hear how the business evolved, what changed about her leadership as the company scaled, and why systems matter—even when you hate them.  If you're a roofing contractor drowning in permits, scheduling, and admin work, or you're building a business in the construction space, this one's for you. Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 Thais Saenz: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thais.chica LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thaissaenz2019/ Saenz Global: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saenzglobal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saenzglobal/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCTadIBZtS8DALGdvvXUd6aw TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@saenzglobal Website: https://saenzglobal.com/ About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital    

In this episode of the mission control podcast Mike sits down with Daniel Cherniske, Co-Founder of Roof Leopard, to discuss his journey from teaching prison aquaponics to building a high-growth roofing company in Western New York. Daniel shares how he pivoted from a niche consulting background to the roofing industry, where he and his partner Willie have focused on professionalizing the trade and moving past the "Uncle's roofing" stigma. The conversation dives into Mike's "solutions, not excuses" philosophy, the importance of delegating production to maintain quality, and tactical sales advice—including a role-play on how to secure reviews from every prospect. From scaling standing seam metal roofing to leveraging micro-websites for lead flow, Daniel breaks down the strategies Roof Leopard is using to stay ahead in 2026. In this episode of the mission control podcast Mike sits down with Daniel Cherniske, Co-Founder of Roof Leopard, to discuss his journey from teaching prison aquaponics to building a high-growth roofing company in Western New York. Daniel shares how he pivoted from a niche consulting background to the roofing industry, where he and his partner Willie have focused on professionalizing the trade and moving past the "Uncle's roofing" stigma. The conversation dives into Mike's "solutions, not excuses" philosophy, the importance of delegating production to maintain quality, and tactical sales advice—including a role-play on how to secure reviews from every prospect. From scaling standing seam metal roofing to leveraging micro-websites for lead flow, Daniel breaks down the strategies Roof Leopard is using to stay ahead in 2026. Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 About Roof Leopard:  Founded by construction veterans Willie Jay and Daniel Cherniske, Roof Leopard is a community-focused team dedicated to raising the bar for local roofing. Known for their high standards and "precision-first" approach, they aim to turn what is often a stressful, confusing investment into a transparent and seamless process. By prioritizing 5-star customer service alongside expert craftsmanship, Roof Leopard provides neighbors with an honest, professional experience that makes protecting a home feel remarkably easy. Roof Leopard: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571148012857 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roofleopard/      

In this episode of the Mission Control podcast, Mike sits down with David Carroll, founder of DOPE Marketing, to discuss the mental evolution of an entrepreneur. David reflects on his recent trip to Chicago and shares insights on the importance of self-awareness, giving oneself credit for personal growth, and shifting away from a "grinder" mentality toward a more balanced life. The conversation touches on maintaining "equanimity" during business challenges and why leaders should focus on mental fortitude and the original "why" behind their ventures. Ultimately, David highlights that true success is the freedom to prioritize personal values, such as spending time with family, over constant productivity   Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   David Carroll: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.l.carroll.7 Dope Marketing: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DopeMktg Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCwhQCqt3WGZN-skFCnvE2RA  Website: https://www.dopemarketing.com/   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.  

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Mike sits down with Kyle Weber, co-owner of Hometown Roofing Services, to discuss the business's rapid rise since its launch in October 2022. Kyle details his transition from a repair technician to a business owner, highlighting how a reputation for being "customer-facing" and maintaining personal relationships fueled his initial lead flow. The duo explores the significant competitive edge gained by performing attic inspections, a practice that builds homeowner trust and uncovers hidden issues like code violations or misrouted water lines before a project starts. Kyle also outlines his modern growth playbook, which includes active participation in BNI networking groups, utilizing Company Cam for liability protection, and using authentic video content—such as personalized "on the way" videos—to establish immediate authority with clients   Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   Hometown Roofing Services: Website: https://hometownroofingsc.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Hometown-Roofing-Services Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hometownroofingsc Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HometownRoofingSC Kyle Weber: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyle.weber.90226   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.   Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.    

In this episode of the  Mission Control Podcast, Mike interviews Bradley Dillon of Virginia-based Dillon Roofing, a company celebrating 30 years since its founding by Bradley's father. Bradley details his "earned, not given" journey from a decade-long laborer to partner, emphasizing his efforts to modernize the "old school" business through CRM systems, digital roof measurements, and social media branding. The conversation explores the "gift and curse" of perfectionism, the power of organic word-of-mouth growth, and Bradley's commitment to maintaining high-quality craftsmanship over rapid, impersonal scaling. Ultimately, Bradley shares how intentionality and community trust—exemplified by over 100 five-star reviews—drive a business model focused on lasting relationships rather than just transactions.   Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   Dillon Roofing:  Website: https://www.dillon-roofing.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DillonRoofing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dillon_roofing TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dillonroofing   Bradley Dillon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BradleyLewisDillon/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradley_dillon/   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/   Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/   Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!   New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.  

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Mike sits down with Aaron Christy to discuss the growth of Indy Roof & Restoration and the specific marketing strategies used to dominate the Indianapolis market. A major focus is placed on leveraging real estate agents as "power partners" to generate high-quality leads with a $0 cost per acquisition. Aaron also breaks down his Google review hacks, specifically how to secure five-star reviews from every inspection, even when no damage is found, to build massive online authority. The duo further explores modern sales approaches, emphasizing character-driven hiring to avoid "sleazy" tactics and ensuring long-term brand trust   Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   Links Mentioned in Episode:  Check out Sharky's: https://www.facebook.com/SharkysonBrookside   Indy Roof & Restoration: Website: https://indyroofandrestoration.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Indyroofandrestoration X: https://x.com/RoofIndy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@indyroofandrestoration LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indyroofandrestoration/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indyroofandrestoration   Aaron Christy: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.christy.79 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronchristy/   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency  Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.  Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/   Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/  Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!   New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.  

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Mike sits down with Chris Zimmerman, co-founder of Master Your Craft, where they "teach contractors how to fish" to proactively protect homeowners and advance the roofing industry. Chris shares his "long-sighted" philosophy on building a sustainable business, detailing how he pivoted his company from 90% storm restoration to 70% retail by prioritizing systems, core values, and strategic partnerships over short-term "microwave" gratification. From mastering the psychology of sales through active listening to reducing marketing spend to under 1% by targeting partners instead of just leads, this conversation offers a masterclass in protecting your reputation and achieving long-term success in the roofing space.   Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   Chris Zimmerman: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.zimmerman.79 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris_zimmerman4 Master Your Craft: Website: https://www.masteryourcraftgroup.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/masteryourcraftgroup   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!   New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.  

In this episode of the mission control podcast Mike sits down with Matt Grassmyer, the Director of Outside Sales at HailTrace, a weather consulting company specializing in severe weather forensics. Matt shares how roofing companies can master customer acquisition before, during, and after a storm. He explains that the biggest mistake roofers make is waiting for weather to hit before seeking new opportunities , emphasizing the need to build brand awareness 365 days a year. Matt highlights using HailTrace's technology to monitor past customers' neighborhoods, providing peace of mind and generating easy referrals. He also covers post-storm follow-up strategies and using sales feedback to build a purposeful content calendar.    Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   Check out Opus Clips:  https://www.opus.pro/   Check Out Hail Trace: Website: https://hailtrace.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HailTrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hail-trace/ Instragram: https://www.instagram.com/hailtrace   Matt Grassmyer Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.grassmyer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-r-grassmyer/   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency   Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.   Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/   Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/   Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!   New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-control-podcast/id1646120629 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1VX3wdC4b2j5Fb1V9V9yNo?si=8e1b139e5f1a4e87  

In this episode, Mike sits down with Danny Shannon, who joins the show from Australia to share his incredible journey from the depths of addiction to 16 years of recovery. Danny's struggle began at age 14, leading to a daily heroin habit by 15 and nearly two decades of cycles involving incarceration and substance abuse. Throughout the conversation, Danny dives into the reality of early recovery anxiety, the importance of daily inventories for staying on track, and the inspiration behind his innovative app, Encapsulator. This platform allows users to record raw video messages to their future selves as a therapeutic tool for accountability and tracking personal growth, reflecting Danny's mission to help others find lasting serenity. Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 Danny Shannon: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danny.shannon.395 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dannyshannon1908 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dan_the_man_46_/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-a-shannon-05a109163/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@danny_shannon_1975 Encapsulator App:  Website: https://encapsulator.io/ About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.    

In this episode of the Mission Control podcast, Mike welcomes Jeffrey Teitelbaum, the owner of RST Roofing and Renovation based in Decatur, Georgia. Jeffrey shares the fascinating story of his career pivot from serving as an Atlanta police detective to working as an insurance adjuster, and finally launching his own roofing company in 2019 just months before the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on his background in finance and business, Jeffrey discusses his "slow burn" approach to growth, emphasizing organic SEO and brand presence over high-pressure lead generation services. The conversation explores the operational challenges of running a business, including his recent transition to AccuLynx for better reporting and a more professional customer experience. Looking ahead to 2026, Jeffrey sets an ambitious goal to dominate his market through consistent video content, focusing on "what to expect" guides and social proof to build deep trust with the next generation of homeowners.   Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   Jeffrey Teitelbaum: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeffrey.teitelbaum.5 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-t-a3270b1a/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jefftee89/   RST Roofing & Renovations: Website: https://rst-roofing.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rstroofingco YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RSTRoofingandRenovations Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rstroofing/   RST Roofing and Renovations is a premier roofing contractor in Georgia serving the Metro Atlanta area. As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor with an A+ BBB rating, they specialize in high-quality residential and commercial roofing solutions, including full roof replacements, leak repairs, and storm damage restoration. Serving cities like Decatur, Marietta, and Smyrna, RST is known for its expertise in navigating the insurance claim process and providing thorough roof inspections. Their commitment to transparency and craftsmanship makes them a trusted name for asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and TPO systems across the region.   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency   Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.   Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/   Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/   Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.