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The Boardroom Buzz: Grow, Sell, or Exit: Daily Summaries Delivered
by The Boardroom Buzz
Boardroom Buzz is the straight-talk playbook for owners who built their service businesses from the crawlspace up and want to master the next move—whether that’s doubling down on growth or preparing for a life-changing exit.Hosted by Jason & Jeremy Julio—“The Blue-Collar Twins” who turned a service-truck start-up into a multimillion-dollar success—and mentored by veteran deal-maker Paul Giannamore, the show turns boardroom finance into stories you’d swap over a tailgate. Expect 40-minute deep-dives that unwrap one real transaction and one valuation lever you can pull today, plus quick “Market Pulse” riffs that flag shifts every operator should watch.If you’re a majority or significant-minority owner eyeing the $5 M–$100 M revenue range, tune in for gritty war stories, step-by-step tactics, and the confidence to choose your own endgame. New episodes every Thursday. Presented by POTOMAC M&A.
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- 1 weeks ago50 min
From 43 Customers to $25 Million: How Burns Pest Elimination Scaled
Austin Burns, third-generation leader at Burns Pest Elimination, shares how a family business that began with one truck and 43 customers grew into a company with more than 200 employees and roughly $25 million in revenue. The conversation explores scaling a pest control operation, building a strong culture, using technology and AI, and the value of industry relationships. Key topics Austin explains how his grandfather entered pest control by trading real estate commissions for one truck and 43 customers, then brought the family back to Arizona to build the company.He shares his path from professional motorcycle racing to joining the family business at 21 after injuries ended his racing career.The transition from paper route sheets to digital software became a major turning point for efficiency and scale.Culture is described as a key driver of growth, with an emphasis on employee buy-in, customer experience, and treating staff as an extension of the Burns family.Burns Pest Elimination has a roughly 55% commercial and 45% residential mix, which Austin says has worked well for profitability and stability.Organic growth is the priority. Acquisitions are used sparingly and strategically, in part because of strong competition and private equity activity in Arizona.The company’s marketing mix includes TV, radio, billboards, LSAs, Google PPC, Bing, Yelp, Angie, and social media. Austin says LSAs and Google PPC currently deliver the strongest ROI.Austin and his cousin split top leadership duties, while his dad and uncle remain involved in strategy, bringing 43 years of business experience to major decisions.Burns U provides weeklong onboarding in culture, communication, sales, technical skills, licensing, safety, and driver training.The company uses AI to automate reporting and dashboards, and for after-hours phone support and service documentation.Austin discusses fleet management, vehicle cameras, telematics, and in-house mechanics as tools for protecting the business and reducing liability.His involvement with NPMA and the Arizona association—including the Executive Leadership Program, state board leadership, and peer groups—has helped him build industry relationships. Notable quotes “Our culture is what allows us to continue to grow.”“I hope that they look at me as a leader.” Ready for boardroom-level help with your own business? • Grow, sell, or exit your service company with Potomac: https://www.potomaccompany.com Connect with the hosts: • Blue Collar Twins – Jason & Jeremy Julio: https://bluecollartwins.com Connect with Paul: • Paul Giannamore – Managing Director & M&A advisor at Potomac: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgiannamore
- Oct 8, 20261h 1m
Why Brand Culture Matters More Than Ads in Home Services
Travis Bottoms joins Jason and Jeremy for a wide-ranging conversation about building Nice Pest Control in Arizona, scaling it to nearly $2 million in recurring revenue, and creating a marketing engine built almost entirely on referrals, social content, and customer experience. They also dig into company culture, hiring, compensation, and Travis’s growing influence in the pest control industry through PestWorld. In this episode, Travis shares how he and his business partner Tyler split responsibilities, why he believes the integrator role is essential, and how their team structure lets the business run without Travis being in the day-to-day every minute. They also discuss the unusual tactics behind Nice Pest Control’s brand and the way Travis has turned community, content, and creativity into a real growth channel. You will learn: Nice Pest Control’s size, team, and growth to nearly $2M recurringVisionary vs integrator and why Tyler mattersTravis’s path from technician to COO to founderNo traditional ads - growth from social, referrals, and organic reachCustomer appreciation events as a marketing strategyUsing customer reviews to shape the brandSeasonal smiley face branding and family-first positioningCulture, “it’s cool to care,” and supporting technicians’ familiesTechnician social media requirements and daily postingSalary, commissions, and tips as upside on top of stable payUsing Pest AI and territory-based technician sellingTravis’s growing role as an industry influencerThe origin of PestWorld and how it became a live industry eventDrafting teams, charity competition, and PestWorld’s structureThe PestWorld itinerary: party, relay race, show floor, and Family FeudThe Nice Pest Control tattoo promotion and the free-for-life offerCapping the tattoo program and the spike in new customersViral technician content and millions of viewsPosting volume, consistency, and Instagram momentum over 90 daysThe monthly social bonus system for techniciansWhy technicians post about themselves, not just the company Notable quotes: “If we focus on being the best, we don’t have to focus on being the biggest.” “It’s cool to care.” “I’d rather spend money with you than with Google or Meta.” Action items Build a referral program into everyday operations, not just a campaign.Make technicians part of the marketing engine through simple, repeatable content expectations.Pay for cultural fit as seriously as skill, especially in customer-facing businesses.Use customer appreciation as retention and referral fuel, not just a feel-good gesture.Consider whether your brand could be more memorable, more personal, and more family-friendly. Ready for boardroom-level help with your own business? • Grow, sell, or exit your service company with Potomac: https://www.potomaccompany.com Connect with the hosts: • Blue Collar Twins – Jason & Jeremy Julio: https://bluecollartwins.com Connect with Paul: • Paul Giannamore – Managing Director & M&A advisor at Potomac: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgiannamore
- Jul 9, 20261h 3m
The Surprising Power of Core Values and Community Engagement in Business Growth
In this episode of Boardroom Buzz, Bill and Sarah share their inspiring journey from starting their pest control company in a basement to achieving over ten million dollars in annual revenue. They discuss the importance of core values, strategic growth, community engagement, and building a strong team to sustain their success. Whether you're an entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, their insights on leadership, scaling, and maintaining culture are invaluable. Main Topics: How Sarah's family legacy shaped the start of Thomas Pest Control and their acquisition strategyThe critical role of sales experience in scaling their businessImplementing EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) for clarity and growthCommunity involvement and why they support cerebral palsy awarenessBuilding a scalable service center model and local satellite branchesLeadership structure, team promotions, and retention strategiesHarnessing AI tools like Tasklet, X-ray, and role play platforms for training and performanceInside the sales process: inside vs. outside sales teams, leads, and customer relationshipsThe importance of trucks, branding, and truck maintenance for reputationPersonal dynamics of working with a spouse and maintaining work-life balanceLong-term visions: expansion, acquiring more businesses, and innovative projects like pest control planes Additional Highlights: The strategic importance of community involvement and giving backBuilding a leadership pipeline through internal promotionsEmbracing AI tools for continuous improvement and trainingMaintaining culture and customer service excellence amidst rapid growthLong-term vision: innovation, expansion, and brand-building strategies Ready for boardroom-level help with your own business? • Grow, sell, or exit your service company with Potomac: https://www.potomaccompany.com Connect with the hosts: • Blue Collar Twins – Jason & Jeremy Julio: https://bluecollartwins.com Connect with Paul: • Paul Giannamore – Managing Director & M&A advisor at Potomac: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgiannamore
- Jul 2, 202659 min
From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Small, Strategic Changes Took This Business from Struggling to Dominating
Explore Brian Hopkins’ journey from firefighter to successful entrepreneur in pest control and pool care industries. Gain insights into organic growth, strategic branding, team management, and adapting to industry challenges without heavy marketing. In this episode: How Brian leveraged relationships in the pest control and pool industries to grow his businessesThe parallels between pest control and pool service modelsStrategies for organic growth and community engagementChallenges faced during business transitions and solutions implementedThe importance of branding, professional appearance, and customer servicePractical tips on route management, hiring, and tech trainingThe significance of leveraging technology and digital reviews for business expansionLong-term goals: scaling operations and potential franchise opportunities Ready for boardroom-level help with your own business? • Grow, sell, or exit your service company with Potomac: https://www.potomaccompany.com Connect with the hosts: • Blue Collar Twins – Jason & Jeremy Julio: https://bluecollartwins.com Connect with Paul: • Paul Giannamore – Managing Director & M&A advisor at Potomac: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgiannamore
- Jun 26, 202657 min
The Hidden Truth About Scaling a Saturated Pest Control Market
Discover how Luke transitioned from an FBI analyst to leading a booming pest control business, scaling to nearly $24 million in revenue. Gain insights on effective marketing, team management, and the mindset needed to transform challenges into growth opportunities. Key Topics Luke’s unconventional career journey from FBI analyst to pest control business ownerBuilding a premium brand through high-end service and pricingLeveraging digital marketing channels like SEO, pay-per-click, and automationStructuring and scaling team hierarchies for rapid growthThe importance of KPIs and data-driven decision-makingHandling operational crises like catalytic converter thefts and staff turnoverStrategic leadership traits: accountability, motivation, and detailed involvementPersonal health and maintaining work-life balance amidst rapid expansionFuture goals: aiming for a $100 million revenue by 2032 Ready for boardroom-level help with your own business? • Grow, sell, or exit your service company with Potomac: https://www.potomaccompany.com Connect with the hosts: • Blue Collar Twins – Jason & Jeremy Julio: https://bluecollartwins.com Connect with Paul: • Paul Giannamore – Managing Director & M&A advisor at Potomac: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgiannamore
- Jun 11, 202650 min
Why Avoiding Debt Made Byron Barnes the Youngest Millionaire Pest Control CEO
Explore Byron's inspiring story of taking over his family's pest control business at 22, navigating debt, and growing it to a $5 million company through innovative micro acquisitions, branding, and community-focused culture. Discover his insights on leadership, managing growth, and using modern tools like AI to enhance customer service. In this episode: Byron shares how he took over his family's pest control company at age 22 after his father's passingThe challenges of transforming an insolvent business into a thriving enterpriseHis unique approach to micro acquisitions and organic growth strategiesBuilding a strong brand with branded trucks and local marketing effortsThe importance of customer service and community engagement in business successHis perspective on using AI responsibly for customer interactions and marketingLessons learned about managing people and cultivating a positive work culture Ready for boardroom-level help with your own business? • Grow, sell, or exit your service company with Potomac: https://www.potomaccompany.com Connect with the hosts: • Blue Collar Twins – Jason & Jeremy Julio: https://bluecollartwins.com Connect with Paul: • Paul Giannamore – Managing Director & M&A advisor at Potomac: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgiannamore
- May 28, 202648 min
How Asking 'Why Not?' Transformed My Business and Can Change Yours Too
Most pest control companies get stuck doing the same thing day after day. Tim Whitt, a 40-year veteran in the industry, reveals how a mindset shift, similar to fighting insect behavior, can elevate your business to the next level. From humble beginnings as a termite helper to building a multimillion-dollar franchise, Tim shares the exact strategies that turned small-town pest control into a scalable, innovative empire. You’ll discover: How to leverage niche markets like lawn care to diversify your revenue streams and redefine your service categories.The importance of protecting your business name and intellectual property before scaling.Why adopting a ‘why not’ mindset can unlock explosive growth and new opportunities.Practical steps on hiring for character, building leadership, and succession planning to secure your company’s future.How to confront the negative “bloodsuckers” in your business, internal or external, and turn them into opportunities for improvement. Tim’s insights are about more than pest control, they’re about mindset shifts, strategic branding, and creating a culture that repels the pests of poor leadership and internal sabotage. His story of moving from corporate routines to owning his own franchise is a blueprint for entrepreneurs everywhere who want to challenge the status quo. If you're ready to turn your passion into a thriving, scalable business—this episode is your must-listen. Perfect for service business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, or anyone tired of doing what everyone else does, Tim’s advice will inspire you to ask: Why not? Guest Tim Whitt is a serial entrepreneur, author of Infested, and founder of Pied Piper Pest Control. Known for his innovative approach and candid insights, he’s helping operators rewrite the rules of the industry, and his franchise model is just getting started. Tune in and discover how to fight the pests that threaten your business, and more importantly, how to prevent the ones hiding within. Ready for boardroom-level help with your own business? • Grow, sell, or exit your service company with Potomac: https://www.potomaccompany.com Connect with the hosts: • Blue Collar Twins – Jason & Jeremy Julio: https://bluecollartwins.com Connect with Paul: • Paul Giannamore – Managing Director & M&A advisor at Potomac: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgiannamore
- May 21, 202643 min
The Truth About Building a Relational Business in a Transactional World
Jeremy and Jason Julio host The Boardroom Buzz with guest David DeStefano of Digital Building Consultants, who shares his upbringing in Detroit and Kentucky roots, early entrepreneurial moments, and lessons from union commercial roofing in New York City. He describes starting a residential roofing business in college, how wrestling taught self-reflection and persistence, and how faith shifted his focus from “provisions” to purpose after business and personal lows. DeStefano emphasizes relational client service, integrity, and caring for employees’ families, while explaining NYC’s complex waterproofing environment and high insurance costs. He discusses building multiple entities including an AI platform and “Digital Dave” digital-twin concept centered on shared data ownership, advising businesses to learn prompting, protect data, and adopt AI strategically for long-term advantage. You'll learn: Detroit Roots and HustleGrandpa’s Roofing LessonsWrestling Mindset for BusinessFaith Shift and Hard LessonsRelationships Build TrustNYC Roofing and WaterproofingInsurance and Mega ProjectsHiring Ownership MindsetVision And Integrity FirstAI Crossroads And Data OwnershipPrompting And Team EnablementFinding Aligned PeopleTherapy And Staying GroundedAI Implementation And PrivacyDiscipline And Market Opportunity Ready for boardroom-level help with your own business? • Grow, sell, or exit your service company with Potomac: https://www.potomaccompany.com Connect with the hosts: • Blue Collar Twins – Jason & Jeremy Julio: https://bluecollartwins.com Connect with Paul: • Paul Giannamore – Managing Director & M&A advisor at Potomac: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgiannamore
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About The Boardroom Buzz: Grow, Sell, or Exit
Boardroom Buzz is the straight-talk playbook for owners who built their service businesses from the crawlspace up and want to master the next move—whether that’s doubling down on growth or preparing for a life-changing exit.Hosted by Jason & Jeremy Julio—“The Blue-Collar Twins” who turned a service-truck start-up into a multimillion-dollar success—and mentored by veteran deal-maker Paul Giannamore, the show turns boardroom finance into stories you’d swap over a tailgate. Expect 40-minute deep-dives that unwrap one real transaction and one valuation lever you can pull today, plus quick “Market Pulse” riffs that flag shifts every operator should watch.If you’re a majority or significant-minority owner eyeing the $5 M–$100 M revenue range, tune in for gritty war stories, step-by-step tactics, and the confidence to choose your own endgame. New episodes every Thursday. Presented by POTOMAC M&A.
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