Smart HVAC Marketing

Rival Digital

Welcome to the Smart HVAC Marketing Podcast – the podcast for HVAC contractors who are ready to quit screwing around and begin growing their business. On this HVAC podcast, you’ll hear from business owners, operations specialists, and manufacturers across the country to gain valuable insight on how to improve your marketing, increase sales, and optimize your day-to-day operations. read less
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Making The Most of Tradeshow Season with Bill Rossell of Home Service Freedom
Sep 22 2023
Making The Most of Tradeshow Season with Bill Rossell of Home Service Freedom
In this week's enlightening episode, we sit down with the insightful Bill Rossell from Home Service Freedom. As the service industry is constantly evolving, it's no wonder there are countless tradeshows to catch every year. Yet, there's one in particular that's generating a significant buzz: the inaugural Freedom Event hosted by Tommy Mello and the Home Service Freedom team. Why is this one standing out from the crowd? Bill spills the beans. Moreover, ever felt overwhelmed with the information overload at these events? Bill offers a golden nugget of advice: instead of being a jack-of-all-trades, focus on mastering a few. Plan to implement just 2 or 3 significant takeaways from each show. This way, you're not just attending — you're optimizing. Tune in and find out why the Freedom Event is the one tradeshow this year you don't want to let slip through the cracks, and how you can make the most of every conference experience! Key Takeaways: Dive deep into the uniqueness of the inaugural Freedom Event.Understand the power of selective implementation and why 2 or 3 key takeaways are more potent than dozens.Get a glimpse into the future of home services with Bill Rossell's insights. Register for Freedom Event today at www.freedomevent.com and use promo code "RIVALDIGITAL20" to save 20% off your admission!
Making The Most of Tradeshow Season with Bill Rossell of Home Service Freedom
Sep 22 2023
Making The Most of Tradeshow Season with Bill Rossell of Home Service Freedom
In this week's enlightening episode, we sit down with the insightful Bill Rossell from Home Service Freedom. As the service industry is constantly evolving, it's no wonder there are countless tradeshows to catch every year. Yet, there's one in particular that's generating a significant buzz: the inaugural Freedom Event hosted by Tommy Mello and the Home Service Freedom team. Why is this one standing out from the crowd? Bill spills the beans. Moreover, ever felt overwhelmed with the information overload at these events? Bill offers a golden nugget of advice: instead of being a jack-of-all-trades, focus on mastering a few. Plan to implement just 2 or 3 significant takeaways from each show. This way, you're not just attending — you're optimizing. Tune in and find out why the Freedom Event is the one tradeshow this year you don't want to let slip through the cracks, and how you can make the most of every conference experience! Key Takeaways: Dive deep into the uniqueness of the inaugural Freedom Event.Understand the power of selective implementation and why 2 or 3 key takeaways are more potent than dozens.Get a glimpse into the future of home services with Bill Rossell's insights. Register for Freedom Event today at www.freedomevent.com and use promo code "RIVALDIGITAL20" to save 20% off your admission!
Seeing Blue Collar as an Option
Jul 26 2023
Seeing Blue Collar as an Option
On this episode, we are joined by Mack Chambers of Dream Heating and Cooling. Mack is the new owner of Dream and has always been in the industry. He started, like most of us, as the flashlight holder. Mack and Eric discuss their music background, what impact means, seeing blue collar as a career choice, and what constitutes as a number one priority. Mack's goal for Dream is to help other people win in a trustworthy and grateful manner, and help homeowners by elevating their lives. Mack and Eric talk about how to properly enter a home, the Dream sheep, and Dream's target audience.  Want to connect with Mack? Reach out to him here
Fit in or Stand Out with Dan Antonelli
Jul 19 2023
Fit in or Stand Out with Dan Antonelli
On this episode, we are joined by none other than Dan Antonelli, President and Creative Director of KickCharge. We are huge fans of Dan and his awesome work! Dan covers a lot of ground in this episode, including brand development, tag lines, brochures, and even billboards. Dan breaks down KickCharge's goal, which essentially is to control first impressions and perceptions before you even pick up the phone to call. Dan talks to Eric about the importance of having an attention-grabbing brand, as well as some tips and tricks of things to avoid when naming and re-branding your business. 1. Avoid using initials and your last name--the ultimate goal is to appeal to your correct demographic. 2. Always prioritize brand culture and recruitment when branding or re-branding. Thanks for joining us, Dan!
The Importance of Knowing Your Why
Jul 12 2023
The Importance of Knowing Your Why
On this episode, we are joined by Jackie Aubel of Service Titan and host of Tool Box for the Trades. Jackie has been with Service Titan since August of 2017 where she started as the social media manager. Eric and Jackie discuss the upcoming Pantheon event, culture within your company and knowing your people. Eric touches on Jackie's comedy, her love of LA, and how she made the move from New Yorker to full-time California girl. Jackie talks about the importance of knowing your employee's "why," and realizing that not all people are motivated in the same way. Head over to Tool Box for the Trades and check out the episode Eric was on!
Increase Sales By Educating Your Customers Online
Jun 21 2023
Increase Sales By Educating Your Customers Online
On this episode we are joined by Marcus Sheridan, author of They Ask, You Answer. We are thrilled to have him on the show this week. We discuss the importance of being transparent and addressing customer's questions on your website. Many customers ask the same questions, so why not give them peace of mind by answering them? Marcus also discusses the Big 5--things customer's keep in mind: 1-cost questions 2-problems, negatives and issues 3-Comparisons 4-Reviews 5-The best or top businesses Marcus stresses the importance of there being room for everyone to be on top.
1+1=3 When Traditional & Digital Marketing Work Together
Jun 21 2023
1+1=3 When Traditional & Digital Marketing Work Together
On this episode, we are joined by Ryan Chute of Wizard of Ads. Ryan has been with Wizard of Ads since 2017 and has been on on the podcast before! Ryan breaks down how to create an effective radio ad: messagemeaningful frequencyreach How to track the data and leads brought in from a radio ad and the importance of branding.  Ryan notes that when you want someone to remember something, "sing it!" Ryan and Eric wrap up the episode by talking about the ROI in your branding as well as charging a premium price for convenience.
Marketing Real Talk: Garage Door Guerrilla Marketing
Jun 7 2023
Marketing Real Talk: Garage Door Guerrilla Marketing
We are back! Eric shakes things up this week where he shares marketing ideas that go outside the box. Eric shares how partnering with local garage sales could get your marketing out there to your targeted audience. Eric explains whys to boost brand awareness, how to get it in front of only homeowners, and how a landing page could help your marketing, regardless of what industry you're in.
Virtual Reception: Meet Jill’s Office
May 24 2023
Virtual Reception: Meet Jill’s Office
On this episode, we are joined by Michelle Jeppesen, Director of Business Development for Jill's Office.  Jill's Office is a virtual reception company that services the HVAC Industry. Jill's Office allows none of your calls to fall through the cracks, and the Jill's Office team is available 24/7 and 100% US based.  Jill's Office is a customizable service. They can answer all your calls, or just follow-up on older leads. They also specialize in satisfaction calls and referrals.  Michelle talks about her outlook in the HVAC Industry, the importance of creating connections with the person on the other end of the phone, and how to train based on tone and customer personality. Eric asks Michelle what the ideal call looks and sounds like, how to onboard a new receptionist, and the importance of building the value in the solution that you as the tech, are going to provide to the customer.  Check out Jill's Office here
A New Way to Train
May 17 2023
A New Way to Train
On this episode, we are joined by Dan Clapper and Ken Midgett from Interplay Learning.   Dan Clapper serves as the Commercial HVAC and Facilities Maintenance Market Director for Interplay Learning. Dan brings 25 years of experience to Interplay in a variety of roles across the HVAC market.  Dan has developed a passion for helping trade professionals grow their businesses and their people.  Ken Midgett serves as the Plumbing Market Director at Interplay Learning. He has been in the plumbing and heating industry for over 40 years and has worked in every facet of the industry.  Dan and Ken talk to Eric about training faster, and what the future of training will be. Eric brings up the advantages and disadvantages of using VR to train. Dan and Ken note that if you're not training, you're falling behind.  Want a better way to train your techs? Learn more about Interplay Learning here
Rival x Rogers: Get to know Eric Thomas
May 10 2023
Rival x Rogers: Get to know Eric Thomas
On this episode, Alyssa interviews Eric about how he's gotten to where he is today, what sparked Rival Digital, and how he got Alyssa to start the Rogers Radio podcast. Alyssa asks about Eric's leadership style, how Rival helps their clients reach more homeowners, and he shares his career advice.  Get to know Rival Digital's, Eric Thomas!
Morning Marketing Update
May 3 2023
Morning Marketing Update
On this episode, Eric is here to chat about Google changes, AI websites and the Facebook ad glitch. Eric hopes to do these Marketing Updates every month to make sure everyone is up to date on any/all changes in the Marketing space.  Eric talks AI red flags, page experience and mobile website experience; as well as Facebook's ad disaster over the past weekend. There's a lot of information in this episode, so grab a notebook!
Understanding Metrics: Having Clarity & Data
Apr 26 2023
Understanding Metrics: Having Clarity & Data
On this episode, we are joined by Bri Skiffington, Chief Product Officer, & Andrew Palosi, CEO from Ad Leverage & Data Cube. The three of them discuss PPC, AI, ChatGPT, and return on ad spend. Bri & Andrew also talk about what Ad Leverage and Data Cube do, and how. Eric and Andrew discuss results and Red Robin, and the importance of being intentional and consistent. To wrap-up, Andrew and Bri talk about how a business owner can stand out amongst the advancement of AI.
Entering Growth Mode
Apr 19 2023
Entering Growth Mode
On this episode, we are joined by Kelly Presgrave, CEO and co-owner of Working with Your Handz. Eric and Kelly talk recruitment and how Working with Your Handz finds the talent that you're looking for. Kelly states the importance of showing your employees the way and guiding them towards success. Kelly also discloses the biggest hiring red flags, and how to tell if your potential new hire is telling the truth about his/her experience.  Kelly wraps up the episode by putting an emphasis on being a mentor for your employees and showing them that great success is possible.
Implement and Execute
Apr 12 2023
Implement and Execute
On this episode, we are joined by Tom Peregrino, President of Service Nation. Eric is talking to him live from the International Roundtable Event in Nashville, TN.  Tom explains what makes Service Nation the powerhouse that it is. Tom explains that Service Nation and its events are contractor-centered, and continue to do what it takes to take each event to the next level. Since Tom has become President, breakout sessions have been made based on company size, and Tom has made it his goal to get contractors and partners, closer connections. Tom touches upon the Service World Expo event taking place in Phoenix in October and what to look forward to.
Overcoming Obstacles in a Family-Run Business
Mar 15 2023
Overcoming Obstacles in a Family-Run Business
On this episode, we are joined by Aaron Anderson of Freedom Air. Freedom Air is based out of the Low Country of South Carolina. Aaron is a second generation owner. His dad used his GI bill to get the business up and running. Today, him and his brothers work together daily to provide quality to their customers. Aaron and Eric discuss the challenges and hurdles in not only a family-owned, but also family-run business. Aaron talks about earning roles and not just receiving them because of family status.  His words of advice are to "get better at what you do to earn respect," and to "keep striving."
The Importance of Asking Questions
Mar 8 2023
The Importance of Asking Questions
On this episode, we are joined by April Hines of Strada. Strada is the expert in heating, electrical and security services, furnace repair and installation in the Orlando area. April discusses her journey to Strada, her background and how growth requires lots of questions. April also discusses the generosity of the trades, and her upcoming triathlon!
Marketing Strategy: Making Data Driven Decisions
Mar 1 2023
Marketing Strategy: Making Data Driven Decisions
On this episode, we are joined by Matt Tyner from Max Service Group! This is his third time on The Smart HVAC Marketing Podcast and his first time in person! Matt and Eric are recording at the ServiceTitan event, ToolBox Live in Jacksonville, FL. Eric and Matt discuss the importance of intent based marketing, understanding wants vs. needs and capturing demands. Eric and Matt include what KPIs are critical to watch for: return on ad spend and return on marketing spend. To wrap up the episode, Matt discusses what a healthy marketing funnel looks like, how to keep top of mind awareness and to not overlook a good logo, vehicle wrap and radio ads. (especially those catchy jingles.)
Monitoring Current Trends
Feb 22 2023
Monitoring Current Trends
We are back! Please welcome to this episode, Jon Torrey, Director of Marketing of Searchlight.  In this episode, Eric and Jon discuss analytics and insights and how to use them to your advantage. Jon lets Eric know that, "working together yields better results," and to not rule out advertising on Bing. A lot is discussed in this episode, so have a pen and paper ready! Jon shares the secrets on how to improve marketing operations, and what to focus on when creating Facebook ads. You will not want to miss this episode! Links discussed in this episode can be found here
Get out of Obscurity with Personal Branding
Feb 1 2023
Get out of Obscurity with Personal Branding
On this episode, Eric sits down and discusses the importance of personal branding. January is a slow month, but Eric talks about not being discouraged and allowing yourself to switch from defense to offense.  "When times are tough, you need a strong, personal brand and top of mind awareness..live rent free in people's rolodex."
How to Utilize Software to Increase Efficiency
Jan 25 2023
How to Utilize Software to Increase Efficiency
On this episode, we are joined by Jenny Benbrook, the CEO of Powerhouse Consulting. She is here to help you get the most out of Service Titan and other softwares that propel the HVAC Industry forward.  Jenny touches upon specializing in change management, workflow and where she sees the industry going. Jenny and Eric talk about the emergence of private equity, planning on how to sell and utilizing shared services. Get in contact with Jenny here