Sparky Coach

Today Cam + Joey take us through a few “Close The Month” examples of businesses that have a clear plan + direction. In this episode: -how to review figures against the Beastimator (revenue, COGs, GP, COO, NP) -knowing your numbers (break evens, forecasting, OPEX etc) -highlighting the key patterns (workload, staffing, billable hours, invoicing on time, importance of cashflow, measuring and back costing jobs to identify where it went right or wrong)-the importance of knowing your strengths and leaning into the these (ie service, project, commercial etc) -understanding your target market + knowing how to best lean into it Enjoy the podcast! Much love x SummaryIn this episode, Cameron and Joey explore how hyper-focused businesses achieve rapid growth and resilience by sticking to their core competencies, testing new avenues carefully, and maintaining consistency. They share real-world examples from different regions, highlighting strategies for sustainable success.Keywordsbusiness growth, focus, testing, consistency, revenue, profit, strategy, case study, entrepreneurshipKey TopicsThe importance of hyper-focus and sticking to core competenciesTesting new revenue streams carefully before full implementationThe role of consistency and predictability in business successCase studies from different regions illustrating growth strategiesThe impact of strategic investments in systems and trainingHow to handle business blips and recover quicklyPricing strategies and confidence in service offeringsBuilding staff confidence and predictability in rolesThe importance of saying no to non-core workThe value of confidence and clarity in business operationsSound Bites"They are hyper-focused and know what work they do""Sometimes you have to spend money to make money""Incredible consistency across the board"Chapters00:00 Introduction to focus and growth strategies00:29 The importance of hyper-focus and sticking to core work00:58 Testing new revenue streams and capabilities01:27 Case study: Brisbane business overview and results03:19 Impact of system upgrades and training on performance05:10 Spending to grow and quick turnaround results06:41 Looking at the full 12-month picture for business health07:37 Streamlining processes and adding support staff08:24 The quick ability to turn revenue on and off09:17 Regional focus: New South Wales case study10:28 Product focus and quality control in business12:38 Melbourne business overview and results13:43 The story of focus and workload management14:34 The role of pricing confidence and saying no16:01 Handling blips and recovery in business17:27 Consistency and deliberate planning in growth18:26 The importance of confidence and staff clarity20:25 Building relationships and risk-free growth strategies21:55 Conclusion and key takeaways for focused growth

Today Cam + Joey take us through a few “Close The Month” examples of project businesses. In this episode: -capturing variations + timing invoices well -how to review figures against the Beastimator (revenue, COGs, GP, COO, NP) -knowing your numbers (break evens, forecasting, OPEX etc) -highlighting the key patterns (workload, staffing, billable hours, invoicing on time, importance of cashflow, measuring and back costing jobs to identify where it went right or wrong)-the importance of knowing your strengths and leaning into the these (ie service, project, commercial etc) -understanding your target market + knowing how to best lean into it Enjoy the podcast! Much love x SummaryIn this episode, Cameron and Joey explore the complexities of project-based businesses, focusing on cash flow, claims, and operational strategies to improve profitability. They share real-world examples from the construction and project management sectors to highlight key lessons.Keywordsproject management, cash flow, claims, construction, profitability, business growth, operational strategyKey TopicsCash flow management in project businessesImportance of timely claims and claims stagingOperational challenges during business growthStrategies for improving profitability in constructionLessons from real-world project case studies TakeawaysClaim early but not too early to avoid cash flow issuesFront-footing large material purchases stabilizes cash flowClear processes and roles improve project executionBuilding strong supplier relationships benefits project outcomesMonitoring and adjusting operational strategies is key to growthGuest NameCameron and JoeySound Bites"In July, this business was able to spend double its revenue.""Claim early but not too early to avoid cash flow issues.""Getting on the front foot with claims stabilizes cash flow."Chapters00:00 Introduction to project business challenges01:54 The impact of project scope shifts on profitability03:51 Managing claims and staging for cash flow06:00 Case study: Brisbane project volume business08:12 The importance of early material claims09:56 Operational challenges during rapid growth12:06 Lessons learned from project variations and claim rejections14:02 Balancing project execution and cash flow management16:10 Strategies for process improvement and team structure18:02 The role of supplier relationships in project success19:58 Key takeaways for managing project profitability

Today Cam + Joey take us through a few “Close The Month” examples of a smaller business (ie teams of 3-4) . In this episode: -how to review figures against the Beastimator (revenue, COGs, GP, COO, NP) -knowing your numbers (break evens, forecasting, OPEX etc) -highlighting the key patterns (workload, staffing, billable hours, invoicing on time, importance of cashflow, measuring and back costing jobs to identify where it went right or wrong)-the importance of knowing your strengths and leaning into the these (ie service, project, commercial etc) -understanding your target market + knowing how to best lean into it Enjoy the podcast! Much love x SummaryIn this episode, we explore how small business owners in the trades can leverage financial insights, strategic client management, and operational adjustments to improve profitability and stability. Our guests share real-world examples of navigating volatility, managing overheads, and planning for growth.Keywordssmall business, trades, profitability, financial management, client strategy, operational planning, asset building, business growthKey TopicsImportance of understanding business numbersClient culling and focus on profitable workImpact of overheads and staff managementAsset building and long-term planningAdapting to market and seasonal fluctuations Sound Bites"Knowing your numbers is the key to success.""Clear goals and a profit-focused mindset drive results.""Business can be unpredictable, but recovery is possible."Chapters00:00 Introduction to business lessons from members02:51 Setting clear goals and exit strategies06:11 Quarterly revenue and profit overview07:09 Team size and operational capacity08:12 Impact of new assets and overheads09:02 Seasonal fluctuations and workload management10:12 Maintaining profitability with fluctuating work11:09 Different business strategies and growth plans12:01 Client culling and project focus13:19 Managing project costs and claims15:01 Forecasting and planning for the year ahead16:37 Building long-term assets and wealth18:17 Resilience and recovery from bad months19:09 Scaling and team expansion strategies20:29 Impact of seasonal and market influences22:34 Staffing challenges and operational risks24:31 Market conditions and strategic adjustments26:23 Business unpredictability and risk management27:23 Volatility in small business operations28:19 Closing remarks and key takeaways

Today Cam + Joey take us through a few “Close The Month” examples of a smaller business (ie tradie + apprentice). In this episode: -how to review figures against the Beastimator (revenue, COGs, GP, COO, NP) -highlighting the key patterns (workload, staffing, billable hours, invoicing on time, importance of cashflow, measuring and back costing jobs to identify where it went right or wrong)-the importance of knowing your strengths and leaning into the these (ie service, project, commercial etc) -understanding your target market + knowing how to best lean into it Enjoy the podcast! Much love x Content TypeInterviewPrimary GoalEducationalSummaryIn this episode, Cameron and Joey explore how different business models, external influences, and internal strategies impact business performance, focusing on real-world examples from various regions and sectors.Keywordsbusiness performance, business models, external influences, profitability, trade skills, business growth, cash flow, operational efficiencyKey TopicsImpact of location and sector on business performanceRole of market awareness and reputationImportance of invoicing and admin processesStrategies for focusing on profitable workExternal influences and personal circumstancesBusiness model variations and their effectsProfit margins and cost managementConfidence building through specializationThe significance of consistent cash flowSound Bites"Leaning into your environment is key to success""Consistency builds confidence and clarity""Understanding the story your numbers tell is crucial"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Business Models and External Influences02:16 Regional Business Case Study: Western Australia04:20 Diverse Sectors and Profitability05:09 Quarterly Performance and Business Growth09:36 Regional Business Insights: Hunter and Central Coast12:19 Consistency and Focus in Business Strategy17:55 Financial Results and Profit Margins18:47 External Influences and Business Adaptation24:37 Sydney Business Case and Admin Challenges27:30 The Importance of Admin and Processes29:56 Achieving Business Consistency and Confidence

If you’re winning every job you quote, something’s wrong. In this one we get into why losing the right sales makes your business stronger.In this episode we discuss:why a sale where only you win is a problem you’ll pay for laterthe clients who aren’t the right fit, and what they really cost youhow the wrong work holds space the right work could be fillingwhy a 10/10 conversion rate means you’re probably the cheapest in the roomnever selling someone something they don’t needHope you enjoy the pod!Much love xPlenty of people will tell you how to win more sales, in this podcast we go through why you should lose some. SummaryIn this episode, Greg Crowe shares essential sales principles for business success, emphasizing the importance of losing the right sales to build a strong reputation, attract ideal clients, and ensure both parties win. Learn practical tips on how to refine your sales approach, understand your market, and prioritize long-term relationships over short-term wins.Keywordssales, business growth, client relationships, reputation, margins, sales tips, business strategy, client fit, branding, communicationKey TopicsThe importance of both parties winning in a saleWhy not every client is a good fitThe role of reputation and trust in salesKnowing your numbers and marginsThe value of honest communication and follow-upHow to identify and prioritize ideal clientsThe impact of brand presentation and professionalismWhy you should sometimes walk away from a saleThe long-term benefits of losing the wrong clientsBuilding a business based on integrity and trustChapters00:00 Introduction: The importance of losing the right sales02:26 Story: Choosing the right surfboard and integrity in sales04:48 Knowing your business and market to make better sales decisions06:14 The importance of asking the right questions during sales07:40 Refining your sales process and understanding client needs08:37 The significance of knowing your numbers and margins10:04 Presenting your product with pride and evolving your customer experience11:02 The power of professional presentation and communication13:19 Why not every client is an ideal fit15:10 The risks of taking on unsuitable clients16:01 The importance of aligning with your core market17:29 Understanding payment terms and financial risks18:27 The pitfalls of quoting on anonymous platforms19:15 The value of targeting ideal clients and building trust20:42 The impact of wrong clients on your business24:14 The benefits of focusing on ideal clients and better work24:44 Why winning everything might mean you're the cheapest26:32 Building brand trust and reputation over time27:25 Sowing seeds of trust and long-term success28:16 Conclusion: Win the client, lose a sale for better business

Welcome Aaron Roberts from Radicool Air Conditioning + Electrical for his first ever podcast! Radicool is based out of the trade god approved country aka the Sunshine Coast. He has a team of 15 including operations managers, service managers, project managers, admin, tradies + apprentices. Today Robbo shares 8 lessons in 8 years as follows: -business is harder than you think -try not to be personally attached -build a good team around you -keeping it simple -get stuff out of your head -look after yourself -enjoy the moment -be nice Enjoy the podcast! Much love x. SummaryAaron Roberts, owner of Radical Air Conditioning on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, reflects on eight lessons from eight years building his HVAC business. In conversation with host Greg Crowe, he shares practical lessons on hiring, simplifying systems, documenting business knowledge, protecting his wellbeing, staying present, and leading with kindness.KeywordsAaron Roberts, Radical Air Conditioning, HVAC business, trade business lessons, business owner, hiring tradespeople, job management systems, tradie wellbeing, Sunshine CoastKey TopicsAaron Roberts started Radical Air Conditioning after 11 years in Brisbane and an exhausting Sunshine Coast commute of at least four hours a day.The company grew to roughly 15 or 16 people, including eight tradespeople, five apprentices, and three admin staff, focusing on HVAC and some electrical work.Lesson 1: Business ownership is harder than it looks, and presentation and technical skill alone do not guarantee work or business ability.Lesson 2: Avoid taking every lost quote or departing employee personally; consider their perspective and look for patterns instead.Lesson 3: Build a team that complements the company’s strengths and weaknesses, and hire for both relevant skills and fit.Lesson 4: Keep onboarding and processes simple; too many apps and logins can overwhelm staff and make systems less likely to be used.Lesson 5: Get business knowledge out of the owner’s head and into the job-management system, procedures, and team workflows.Lesson 6: Exercise and other restorative activities help Aaron manage his wellbeing and show up better as a business owner and family member.Lessons 7 and 8: Be present with family and work, and lead with kindness, honesty, and low ego to build trust and a workplace people want to join.Takeawaysstarting and running a business is not as easy as it looks from the outsidetry not to be personally attached, which is super hard to dobuild a good team around you that cater for your strengths and weaknesseskeep it simple, stupidget stuff out of your headlook after yourself as in myself, a business owner, physically and mentallyenjoying the present momentbe nicethe simpler it is, the more that it will get usednothing's ever perfect, so continue working on yourselfSound Bites"get stuff out of your head""enjoying the present moment""continue to learn"Chapters00:00 Coaching staff, reviewing quotes, and setting up the conversation03:45 Why Aaron started Radical Air Conditioning06:44 Eight lessons from eight years in business09:25 Lesson 2: Don’t take every departure or lost quote personally14:56 Lesson 3: Build a team that complements your weaknesses19:47 Lesson 4: Keep onboarding and systems simple23:27 Lesson 5: Document what’s in your head28:02 Hiring admin and valuing a friendly voice on the phone31:06 Lesson 6: Look after your physical and mental health37:34 Lesson 7: Stay present instead of living in the future39:45 Lesson 8: Be nice, honest, and low-ego44:29 Eight lessons recap and the importance of personal development

What you do in October + November decides if February is a flop or a success. This “All I want for Christmas Is A Market Wage + A Business Net Profit Of 20-35%” series is about getting on the front foot for the back end of the year. In this episode: -how to get ready for the “busy” season ahead -why “busy-ness” is like a rocking chair (it gives you something to do but it gets you nowhere) -the importance of closing the week (it should be the only thing to stay not the first thing to go!!) -being up to date on quotes, invoices + variations -how an excellent 30-35 hours beats a good 50-60 -valuing headspace + making good decisions May this podcast help + inspire you as you build a business that is a blessing to yourself, your family, your clients, your staff, your community, and anyone who comes in contact with it. Much love x SummaryGreg Crowe shares practical strategies for business owners to plan ahead, recognize patterns, and work effectively to build a sustainable and profitable business. This episode emphasizes the importance of long-term vision, efficient work habits, and maintaining control over finances.Keywordsbusiness planning, efficiency, long-term vision, cash flow, invoicing, client management, business growth, productivity, work-life balance, strategic planningKey TopicsRecognizing busy patterns at year-endThe importance of long-term planning and visionEffective work hours and productivityCash flow management and invoicing disciplineClient relationship and experience managementStrategic hiring and delegationOrder and process optimization in projectsClosing weekly financial and operational gapsSelf-management as a business ownerSowing seeds for future success Action ItemsPlan your February now by recognizing demand patterns.Normalize working 30 to 38 hours a week, not after hours.Ensure weekly revenue exceeds weekly expenditure.Close the week every week to get accurate data.Identify bottlenecks in invoicing, quoting, and project management.Delegate tasks to improve efficiency and free up time.Focus on long-term vision and sow seeds for future success.Sound Bites"Your business should provide a market wage plus super.""Stop talking negatively about your business.""Close the week. It's the only thing that should stay."Chapters00:00 Introduction: Planning Ahead for Business Success00:29 Recognizing Busy Patterns and Demand Cycles01:25 The Power of Recognizing Business Patterns02:20 Long-Term Vision and Building Wealth04:05 The Cost of Overworking and Negative Talk05:03 Starting February Planning Now05:31 Cash Flow and Invoicing Discipline06:01 Identifying Bottlenecks and Pain Points07:27 Work Effectively and Efficiently08:51 The Myth of Normalizing After Hours Work10:00 Hiring and Client Management Strategies12:21 Slowing Down and Planning in Busy Seasons13:19 Maintaining Quotes and Invoicing Up to Date15:37 Client Experience and Feedback16:05 Invoicing, Variations, and Backlogs17:25 Focusing on One Thing at a Time18:25 Closing the Week and Financial Discipline20:19 Data-Driven Decision Making21:17 Final Thoughts: Consistency and Self-Care

Today Cam + Joey take us through how to best plan for the busy / holiday season ahead. In this episode: Forecasting labour + materials for DecemberPlanning + creating options for January by moving jobs back Organising key items + dates (Christmas party, annual leave, staff coverage over break, final day of invoicing, return to work, notifying key customers (if needed), wholesaler closures, last day on site) Checking the cash position (ie no / little money coming in, lots still coming out) Secure + lock down / remove equipment + tools from site Re-stock vehicles + return to warehouse if needed Pre prep payroll and schedule transfersLet’s get on the front for the back end of the year! Much love x SummaryIn this episode, Cam and Joey discuss how tradespeople can effectively plan for December and January to ensure a prosperous and stress-free holiday season. They cover key dates, staffing, holiday planning, invoicing, and maintaining cash flow, providing practical tips to start the new year strong.Keywordstrade business, holiday planning, December January, invoicing, staffing, cash flow, business tips, end of year, new year planningKey TopicsDecember holiday schedule and key datesStaffing and leave planning for the holiday seasonScheduling and forecasting work in December and JanuaryManaging cash flow and invoicing before the holidaysPlanning Christmas parties and team celebrationsOn-call and emergency coverage during holidaysPreparing your tools, vehicles, and site security for the breakCommunicating with clients and suppliers about holiday schedulesMaximizing work opportunities during the holiday periodStarting the new year with organized finances and work schedulesTakeawaysPlan your last working day before Christmas and your return date in advance.Book your Christmas party early and consider partner-friendly options.Communicate holiday schedules and on-call arrangements with your team.Forecast work and fill December with projects to avoid last-minute stress.Ensure all invoices are sent before Christmas to maintain cash flow.Secure and lock down tools, equipment, and site assets during the break.Prearrange payroll and supplier payments to avoid issues over the holidays.Be aware of public holidays and reduced hours at suppliers.Use the holiday period to clean and organize your workspace and vehicles.Start January with a full schedule and organized finances.Sound Bites"Understanding December's schedule is crucial.""Book your Christmas party early to secure your spot.""Plan ahead to start January on a strong footing."Chapters00:00Introduction and episode overview02:45Understanding December's schedule and key dates06:09Forecasting work and managing client expectations08:39Planning Christmas parties and team celebrations12:01Setting leave dates and holiday shutdowns14:19On-call coverage and emergency planning over Christmas17:17Final workday and return date planning18:27Checking wholesaler hours and material availability20:22Managing workload and overflow work in December24:37Final invoicing and cash flow considerations28:09Customer communication and holiday notifications29:41Securing tools, equipment, and site assets32:04Vehicle and workspace organization for the new year35:43Awareness of public holidays and scheduling pitfalls37:11Preparing for a strong start in January38:33Closing remarks and holiday wishes

Running a business with your partner can make you or break you. Megan and her husband Lachlan have run Impact Electrical on the Central Coast NSW for 8 years. They’ve built a crew of 9 that includes an ops manager, an estimator, tradies and apprentices, and they cover Level 2, commercial, industrial, projects and service work.Megan shares her 6 biggest lessons:-why your partner in the business needs to be a weapon at their role-building the right team around you (accountant, bookkeeper, coach, broker)-recruiting staff worth keeping, and actually keeping them-sleeping on big or emotional decisions before you make them-having the hard conversations most owners avoid-knowing your numbersIf you’re running a sparky business with your other half, send this one to them.Much love,Crowe xSummaryIn this episode, Megan shares her insights on building a successful business partnership, recruiting the right team, and managing business finances effectively. Discover practical tips for growing your electrical business and creating a positive team culture.Keywordsbusiness partnership, team building, recruiting, electrical business, business finances, leadership, business growth, team culture, work-life balanceKey TopicsImportance of building a good team around youRecruitment questions and interview tipsHow to retain staff and create a positive cultureManaging business finances and understanding numbersThe significance of saying no and taking time to reflectThe role of a business coach and ongoing learningInvesting in equipment and team resourcesFuture growth plans and expanding into level two workSound Bites"It's all about roles and responsibilities.""Small gestures create a positive culture.""Know your numbers to grow your business."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Megan and her business journey03:46 The importance of clear roles and boundaries07:08 Choosing the right accountant and financial advisor09:36 Selecting a business coach and ongoing support10:36 Recruitment strategies and interview questions12:24 Hiring your partner for the right skills13:30 The importance of temperament and personality in team members14:48 The significance of good onboarding and probation periods17:20 Effective recruitment practices and avoiding common pitfalls20:07 How to structure interview questions22:13 Probation periods and performance reviews27:09 Retaining staff and creating a positive work environment28:44 The impact of small gestures and company culture30:55 Investing in equipment and team resources33:35 The importance of taking time before making decisions35:19 Having difficult conversations with staff37:34 Providing constructive feedback effectively38:30 Knowing your numbers and financial metrics41:18 Understanding business metrics and improving profitability44:48 Final reflections and future plans

What you do in October + November decides if February is a flop or a success. This “All I want for Christmas Is A Market Wage + A Business Net Profit Of 20-35%” series is about getting on the front foot for the back end of the year. In this episode: -how to get ready for the “busy” season ahead -why “busy-ness” is like a rocking chair (it gives you something to do but it gets you nowhere) -how to plan out your on site capacity for the rest of the year -cash is king! Ensuring cash is in the bank + you are getting paid (see pod #341) -identifying the key bottlenecks (ie supply, demand, profit) and then making a plan accordingly May this podcast help + inspire you as you build a business that is a blessing to yourself, your family, your clients, your staff, your community, and anyone who comes in contact with it. Much love x Your February Starts Now - Part 2Greg Crowe continues the series by pushing business owners to get in front of the busy season instead of being surprised by it. This episode focuses on planning capacity, protecting cash, and identifying the real bottleneck in the business before the end of the year creates pressure.He also ties the strategy back to long term reputation and profitability, reminding listeners that the decisions made now shape what the business looks like 3 to 6 months from today.Key topicsHe stresses that busy season is predictable, not surprising, and that strong businesses get ahead of the yearly rush instead of reacting late.Greg shares why your business today is the result of decisions made 3 to 6 months ago, and why burning bridges now will show up in next year’s workload.He walks through planning on-site capacity by forecasting workload, checking labour availability, and deciding whether subcontractors, apprentices, or new hires are needed.He strongly encourages building around “weapon” people - excellent staff, subcontractors, and apprentices - rather than holding onto average performers who block better ones.He explains why annual leave should be handled with respect, and why staff should not be guilted for taking legitimate time off.He breaks down how to estimate the amount of cash needed to survive shutdown periods by forecasting wages, tax, super, overheads, and expected receivables.He distinguishes the three main bottlenecks in a trade business - supply, demand, and profit - and says you need to know which one is actually holding you back.He reinforces that profit is simple at its core: revenue must exceed expenditure, consistently, across jobs, days, weeks, and months.Timestamps00:00 - Why part two is about getting on the front foot00:49 - Business results come from decisions made months earlier02:46 - Recap of part one and the shift into planning mode03:16 - Forecast on-site capacity before the year ends05:35 - How much work is actually already on the books?06:34 - Hiring apprentices and building around strong performers08:00 - Stop holding onto average staff and average clients09:27 - Why it is too early to push work into next year10:23 - Respect annual leave and keep your team refreshed12:35 - Use simple forecasting to see capacity problems early13:05 - How much work can you actually say yes to?14:30 - Cash is king and cash in bank is what matters16:01 - Send invoices fast, but do not confuse invoicing with payment17:24 - Forecast shutdown cash needs before Christmas hits18:52 - Identify whether the real bottleneck is supply, demand, or profit20:40 - The harsh reality check: current facts versus long term faith22:02 - Close the week and month to see what is really working23:26 - Gross profit, net profit, and why simple measurement wins24:51 - Why businesses need to measure jobs and days properly25:20 - The golden triage: when staff, work, and profit all line up26:46 - Wrap up and preview of part three