The TradeMarke

The Untapped Power of Direct Mail: Insights from Mail Shark's Josh Davis

Welcome to another exciting episode of The TradeMarke, live from the Service World Expo 2024 in Orlando. We are thrilled to introduce Josh Davis from MailShark, our very first sponsor on the show. In this episode, we dive into the world of direct mail marketing, exploring how Mail Shark, a company specializing in direct mail marketing for home service contractors, helps contractors enhance their direct mail and response marketing strategies.
As the Chief Revenue Officer of Mail Shark and one of its first employees, Josh shares his immense experience and insights into the benefits of in-house versus outsourced fulfillment, product variety, and measuring ROI. We also discuss the effectiveness of direct mail during the political season, strategies for acquisition and retention, and the importance of consistency and multiple touches in marketing campaigns.
Learn about the innovative strategies Mail Shark offers, including targeted campaigns, detailed demographic analysis, and API integrations into CRM systems like ServiceTitan. Discover how direct mail, when done right, can provide unparalleled branding opportunities within the trade industry.

Marketing Mascots and Mullets: The Fun Side of Branding

Join us in this lively episode of The TradeMarke as hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas interview the dynamic Lupita Thompson. Get ready for a journey through unique culinary experiences, hilarious games, and insightful discussions on effective branding in the trade industry. Discover the secrets behind successful marketing strategies, memorable trade show moments, and how personal stories add value to professional growth. Whether you’re in the trades, marketing, or just love a good story, this episode offers a delightful blend of fun and professional insights. Tune in for a memorable ride filled with laughter, learning, and the heartwarming spirit of community in the trades.

Maximizing Social Media for Home Service Businesses with Kaleigh Gregory

Welcome to The Trademarke, where marketing meets the trades! Join hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas as they dive into the world of social media with special guest Kaleigh Gregory. Discover how social media can transform your business, learn from Kaleigh's fascinating journey from coordinating magician tours to becoming a marketing expert, and uncover secrets for leveraging Instagram effectively. Whether you're a trade professional or a marketer, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to enhance your brand's online presence. Dive in and explore the exciting intersection of trades and marketing!

Unlocking Accounting Secrets for Business Growth with Nolan Bradbury

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Trademarke. Today, we're joined by Nolan Bradbury to discuss the intricate and often overlooked area of business accounting. Throughout this episode, we dive into why accounting doesn't have to be a dreadful task but can be pivotal for business growth and financial success.
Our host shares personal anecdotes and expert advice on how business owners can restructure their accounting practices to not only handle taxes more efficiently but also drive overall business success. We explore strategic approaches to taxes, demystify common misconceptions, and explore the broader perspective of how accounting integrates with personal and business financial success.
Join us as we uncover methods to align your financial strategies with your business goals, taking advantage of the opportunities that exist within the tax code. Whether it's investing in appreciating assets or understanding the importance of timing and strategy in annual tax filings, this episode is packed with valuable insights that every business owner should know.

Scaling Sweat Equity: Tim Brown on DIY Marketing for Small Trades Businesses

Welcome back to another episode of The TradeMarke! In this exciting edition, the spotlight is on Tim Brown from Hook Agency.
Join hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas as they dive into the unique challenges and strategies in the trade marketing arena. With a special focus on the growing importance of organic marketing and the role of content creation, this episode offers valuable advice for businesses aiming to scale up.
Whether you're a seasoned marketer or a trade professional, discover practical tips on generating authentic content, addressing customer queries, and leveraging SEO to boost your business's visibility. Don’t miss Tim's candid thoughts on entering new markets with humility and his take on the competitive spirit in marketing for home services.

Beyond the Call: The Role of Empathy in Customer Service

Welcome back to another episode of The Trademarke Podcast, where hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas bring warmth to the world of trades and marketing. As the season transitions to what we fondly call 'blankie season' (also known as shoulder season), we dive into engaging conversations that are sure to keep you both entertained and informed.
This episode features a special guest, Valerie Garcia from Colair, a residential heating & air conditioning company serving customers throughout South Texas, who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Valerie, known for wearing many hats, shares her journey in business and marketing, emphasizing the importance of empathy and servant leadership in creating exceptional customer experiences.
Listen in as Valerie discusses the intricacies of call-by-call management, the significance of customer satisfaction, and the power of marketing in business growth. She also sheds light on her role as the 'Ambassador of Fun' and how she manages a dynamic team of CSRs to ensure seamless operations.
Join us for a heartwarming conversation filled with insights, strategies, and a touch of humor as we explore the intersection of trades and marketing. Whether you're a trade professional or a marketing expert, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to elevate your game.

Miranda Hufford’s Inspirational Journey into The Trades

Join Eric Thomas and Sarah Ghirardo as they dive into an inspiring conversation with Miranda Hufford from Red Barn Service on this episode of The Trademark. Eric & Sarah uncover Miranda's unique journey from co-owning a restaurant to managing operations at Red Barn Service, a company known for its innovative approach in the HVAC and electrical trades.
Discover how Miranda's past experiences have shaped her business acumen and how Red Barn Service has grown under her and Samuel's leadership. From tackling challenges like rebranding and weather disruptions to leveraging technology and data for better decision-making, Miranda shares valuable insights into running a successful trade business.
Get a glimpse into Red Barn's community-focused initiatives, such as their exciting AC and furnace contests, and their plans for further community engagement. Plus, hear about Miranda's experience stepping out of her comfort zone and embracing new opportunities.
Tune in for an engaging discussion that highlights the power of teamwork, innovation, and community involvement in the trades industry. Whether you're a trade professional or a marketing expert, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
This episode is proudly sponsored by Mail Shark, to learn more about their services please visit www.themailshark.com

Tawnya Strittmatter's Journey of Triumph, Teamwork, and Giving Back

Welcome to another riveting episode of The TradeMarke! Join hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas as they dive into the exciting world of trades and marketing. This week, they are thrilled to have Tawnya Strittmatter on the show, discussing her unique journey from growing a successful HVAC and plumbing business to serving on the board of the Joseph Groh Foundation.
Tawnya shares her inspiring story of working alongside her visionary husband, Joe, to expand their business, ultimately selling it to private equity. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of their journey, highlighting the importance of teamwork and community in the trades industry.
The episode also explores the impactful work of the Joseph Groh Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting tradespeople facing life-altering accidents and injuries. Tanya explains how the foundation provides essential resources and assistance, helping individuals regain their independence and continue thriving in their communities.
Discover how you can contribute to this meaningful cause and learn about upcoming events like the Service World Expo and golf tournaments, where proceeds benefit the foundation. Don't miss this episode filled with insights, inspiration, and a call to action for business owners to support their teams and communities.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
The Private Equity Playbook: Management’s Guide to Working with Private Equity

Immersive Training & Leadership in the Trades: A Chat with Felicity Monsees

Welcome to another exciting episode of The TradeMarke, your go-to podcast for everything marketing in the trades! In this episode, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas are joined by the incredible Felicity Monsees. Together, they delve into the intriguing world of trades marketing, exploring insights, stories, and strategies that unite the trades and marketing industries.
The conversation kicks off with a fun icebreaker about favorite road trip candies, setting the stage for an engaging and informative discussion. Felicity shares her unique journey into the chimney industry and how she founded Hearthside Hustle, a business dedicated to helping clients with proper SOPs, employee buy-in, and effective marketing strategies.
Discover the importance of immersive training for frontline staff, and how virtual reality is revolutionizing training in the chimney industry. Felicity also emphasizes the significance of building company culture, employee confidence, and having hard conversations to eliminate workplace drama.
Join us for an episode filled with valuable insights, laughter, and a deep dive into the world of trades marketing. Don't forget to leave us a review, share the episode with a friend, and let us know your thoughts!

Balancing Business and Life: Tommy Mello's Game-Changing Strategies for Success

Welcome to another dynamic episode of The TradeMarke! Today, we have the extraordinary Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Door Service and host of The Home Service Expert podcast, joining Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas. Tommy shares his inspiring journey, personal growth, and how he balances life and business with passion and efficiency.
In this episode, Tommy discusses the importance of personal branding, the power of relationships in marketing, and the game-changing strategies that have propelled his success. He also opens up about his lifestyle changes, from hiring a chef and a driver to focusing on health and wellness, and how these have positively impacted his business and personal life.
Tommy's insights on leadership, delegation, and creating a legacy are invaluable for anyone looking to elevate their game in the trades and marketing industries. Plus, don't miss his exciting updates on upcoming events and innovative marketing tools that are set to revolutionize the industry.
Tune in for a conversation filled with actionable advice, heartfelt stories, and the motivation to make your mark in the trades. Whether you're a trade professional, a marketing expert, or somewhere in between, this episode is packed with inspiration and strategies to help you succeed.
Stay connected with us for more engaging conversations and innovative ideas. 
Resources from the show:
Home Service Freedom Event 2024
Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell