Cassie and Kailee kick off 2026 by reflecting on a whirlwind year that included doubling their fleet and launching a brand new garage door division. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the vital importance of slowing down to celebrate actual wins instead of constantly shifting focus to the next objective before the previous one is even finished. The hosts get vulnerable about difficult lessons learned the hard way, including managing interpersonal disappointments and the necessity of being highly intentional with one's "yes" to avoid burnout. They also challenge the unrealistic expectations often found on social media by promising to share more raw and authentic stories about the daily grind of running a business. This episode serves as an empowering reminder to stand your ground and claim ownership over your professional success as a woman in the trades.
Head over to your favorite podcast platform and listen to the full episode to start your year with a fresh perspective and professional motivation!
In this special New Year's episode wrapping up 2025, the Power Women of the Trades podcast reflects on a year of breaking barriers and empowering female entrepreneurs to claim ownership over their lives. The discussion emphasizes that the most successful trade businesses are led by owners who remain deeply passionate and personally vested in their craft. Featuring insights on visionary leadership, the episode explores the power of authentic human connection and the necessity of taking 100% responsibility for your growth as a leader. To help you prepare for a successful 2026, the conversation also provides a strategic look at building intentional marketing budgets. Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform to hear these expert insights and start your new year with the momentum your business deserves!
In this special Christmas episode of the Power Women of the Trades podcast, hosts Cassie and Kailee celebrate the holiday season by highlighting and revisiting some of the incredible guests who have shared their journeys on the show. The episode serves as a reflection on the mission of the podcast: empowering women to maximize their potential and claim ownership over their lives through successful entrepreneurship.Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform to catch this special holiday reflection and gain valuable insights to power your business!
In this episode of Power Women of the Trades, Cassie and Kaylee sit down with Rachel Kent, Account Manager at Rival Digital, the show's newest sponsor. Rachel shares her unexpected journey into the home services industry, which began when she stepped in to save her father’s manufacturing and private labeling business during the pandemic, eventually leading her to the world of digital marketing. The conversation dives deep into the realities of marketing for contractors, emphasizing that it must be treated as a partnership rather than a "silver bullet". Rachel and the hosts discuss how marketing generates the opportunities, but solid operations are required to "swing the bat" and close the deal. They also explore the rapidly evolving role of AI, sharing personal success stories of using ChatGPT for everything. Rachel wraps up the episode by encouraging women to say yes to new opportunities, find their tribe, and stay curious within the trades community.
In Part 2 of this episode of Power Women of the Trades, Cassie and Kailee continue their conversation with Karly Hoehn, Vice President of Rolls Mechanical. Karly opens up about the journey of scaling a family business from 25 to 200 employees while maintaining a tight-knit culture rooted in "common sense leadership". She shares the core values that drive herteam—Build, Excel, Serve, and Teach—and discusses the vulnerability required to lead effectively, emphasizing that owning mistakes is essential for building trust. Karly also offers valuable advice on the power of networking with intention and finding mentors who truly understand the industry's unique challenges. Tune in now to hear Karly’s inspiring insightson leadership, legacy, and building a people-first company!
This episode of Power Women of the Trades welcomes Karly Hoehn, Vice President of Rolls Mechanical, which provides extensive mechanical contracting services across the Midwest. Karly shares her gratitude and unique experience managing the company's rapid growth, stressing the importance of "common sense" leadership and constant communication to maintain a cohesive culture. The conversation highlights the vital role of owning mistakes and continuously listening to employee feedback through self-assessments to evolve processes and provide opportunities for the team. Karly asserts that the core focus remains ensuring the team is supported, emphasizing that this “people first” approach is the key to sustainable success. Tune in now to learn how Karly maintains a strong company culture while leading significant organizational growth!
This episode of Power Women of the Trades is a Thanksgiving Special that takes a look back at some key moments from the year. The clips focus on the comprehensive nature of marketing, emphasizing that it involves everything from the call center experience to the technician's interaction in the home. The segments also address the journey of growing a successful business, the challenge of leading through change, and the importance of maintaining brand integrity through excellent customer experience and follow-up. Tune in now for this special Thanksgiving collection of highlights and inspiring takeaways!
This episode, Part 2, of Power Women of the Trades welcomes Kelly Morris-Palenske, who specializes in affiliate marketing and lead generation strategy for the home service industry. Kelly shares crucial insights on how successful marketing must be seen as the entire customer journey, arguing that its effectiveness depends on seamless integration from the initial affiliate lead to the final technician interaction in the home. She highlights the importance of using data to track performance breaks and support employee morale, noting that call center staff are the essential "ambassadors" of the brand. Kelly also advises on how to counter technician negativity toward affiliate leads by ensuring strong training and transparent data practices. Tune in now to learn how to optimize your entire service process and boost your close rates!
This episode of Power Women of the Trades features Kelly Morris-Palenske, who specializes in affiliate marketing and lead generation for the home service industry. Kelly recalls the story of meeting Cassie and Kailee at a Nexstar marketing workshop, where she was instantly struck by their energy and passion for the trades. She shares her personal journey from cashier to marketing executive, arguing that successful marketing requires the drive to connect with people. The conversation stresses that marketing is not just advertising; it is the entire customer journey, from the first call to the technician's handshake, which reinforces the brand. Kelly emphasizes that prioritizing people and employee morale is the true foundation that allows the revenue to follow. Tune in now to hear how to transform your sales strategy by focusing on the total customer experience!
This episode of Power Women of the Trades features Elaine Damschen, who shares her honest story after selling the business she co-founded, Mainstream Electric, Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, to private equity. Elaine discusses the unexpected identity crisis and subsequent healing process following the sale, emphasizing the importance of having a true exit strategy. Now a #1 international best-selling author, Elaine introduces her self-published book, Made in Vietnam, where she shares her deep personal journey of reconciliation after learning the truth of her parents’ wartime love story. Ultimately, she promotes the concepts of "love in action" and "visible leadership" as essential to success and team morale. Tune in now to hear Elaine's story of healing, purpose, and entrepreneurship.
This episode of Power Women of the Trades features Jen McKee, Founder of Keehart Marketing, providing crucial insights into modern social media strategy for trade businesses. Jen emphasizes that the goal of social media must be to create authentic, engaging content that shows up in the news feed and builds trust, rather than just seeking high scroll counts. The discussion highlights why being visible across multiple platforms and embracing consistency and community involvement are ultimately more valuable for growth than relying on isolated ad campaigns. Tune in now to hear how to transform your online presence and drive measurable business growth!
Welcome back to Power Women of the Trades with Cassie and Kailee! This week, we welcome Jen McKee, Founder of Keehart Marketing, an award-winning force in social media for plumbing and HVAC businesses. Jen delivers invaluable insights on transforming boring company accounts into platforms that skyrocket engagement and drive revenue. We dive into the critical do's and don'ts of content creation, how to strategically leverage AI for exponential growth, and the necessity of taking calculated risks to maximize both your business and personal brand. Listen now to learn how to transform your socials and maximize your potential!
Marking an exciting evolution for the show, Power Women of the Trades welcomes Kailee McCrary, Director of Social Media at Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric, as its new co-host. Cassie and Kailee discuss the foundational mission of the podcast and the years of growth that prepared Kailee to step into this leading role. Kailee reveals her unexpected transition from planning a sports marketing career to finding immense purpose in the trades. The entire episode serves as an excellent piece of motivation, proving that dedication and a willingness to step outside one's comfort zone can lead to extraordinary professional fulfillment.
This episode of the Power Women of the Trades podcast features Paige Knowles ("All Trades Paige"), a young HVAC technician, author, and advocate dedicated to promoting trade careers.
Paige shares her unique path into the industry, starting as a straight-A student who chose a high school plumbing program, where a supportive instructor became a crucial mentor. She dives into how she successfully balances her career as a commercial HVAC technician with her primary mission as an advocate. Hear how she leveraged her skills to author and illustrate her own children books (like Let’s Replace a Showerhead) to introduce basic home skills and career awareness to children early.
Are you ready to support the next generation of tradeswomen and men? Listen now to hear Paige's full story, to learn more about her books and advocacy work. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help spread the word about the incredible opportunities waiting in the trades!
Interested in purchasing any of Paige's books? Check the links below!
1) https://www.amazon.com/Plumber-Paige-Snake-Drain-Bathroom/dp/B0CP41QXK3/ref=pd_bxgy_d_sccl_1/130-6725520-6356810?pd_rd_w=iHRGy&content-id=amzn1.sym.dcf559c6-d374-405e-a13e-133e852d81e1&pf_rd_p=dcf559c6-d374-405e-a13e-133e852d81e1&pf_rd_r=T4CXE0NG4AVRTZ59XWZR&pd_rd_wg=n8MAB&pd_rd_r=3937627a-0969-42c2-8103-e9680913fc13&pd_rd_i=B0CP41QXK3&psc=1
2)https://www.amazon.com/Plumber-Paige-Running-toilet-Bathroom/dp/B0B7QDFV12/ref=pd_bxgy_d_sccl_1/130-6725520-6356810?pd_rd_w=ypYuo&content-id=amzn1.sym.dcf559c6-d374-405e-a13e-133e852d81e1&pf_rd_p=dcf559c6-d374-405e-a13e-133e852d81e1&pf_rd_r=JPYMW6RSECBX7G9R2MYZ&pd_rd_wg=ZR4ou&pd_rd_r=a85ef599-8e08-4142-a422-002b5685e96e&pd_rd_i=B0B7QDFV12&psc=1
3) https://www.amazon.com/Plumber-Paige-Lets-Replace-Shower/dp/B09BYDSSZJ/ref=pd_bxgy_d_sccl_2/130-6725520-6356810?pd_rd_w=OjV0K&content-id=amzn1.sym.dcf559c6-d374-405e-a13e-133e852d81e1&pf_rd_p=dcf559c6-d374-405e-a13e-133e852d81e1&pf_rd_r=EKGX0AMW2WCPV5GNGAA9&pd_rd_wg=01OTC&pd_rd_r=63c3c400-fa8c-4af6-898e-dc50ff3532ab&pd_rd_i=B09BYDSSZJ&psc=1
In this episode of Power Women of the Trades, hosts Cassie and Heather sit down with Robin Cody, the Director of Marketing and HR for Cody and Sons Plumbing, Heating and Air in Dallas, Texas. Robin shares her unique journey, from joining the family business 11 years ago to helping it grow from 5 to 40 employees. She discusses the challenges of wearing multiple hats and the value of professional networks like the Torch Network for getting honest advice on new software and products. The conversation gets real about the current economic climate. Robin and the hosts agree that this year has been "weird" and challenging for the industry. They discuss how companies must pivot their marketing strategies, moving away from a steady flow of business to more old-school methods like trade shows and lead generation services to keep the board full. Robin also highlights the vital support she's found in women's groups like the Women in HVACR and the Lady Titans, emphasizing the importance of community in the trades. Tune in to hear how one company is navigating market changes with smart marketing and a focus on community.
In this episode of Power Women of the Trades, hosts Cassie and Heather talk with Jean Florea, founder of WorkHers United. Jean shares her unique journey from a teacher to an electrical
company owner, and how she's now dedicated to empowering women in the trades.
She highlights the surprising pay equality in the industry and discusses her mission to change the narrative around trade careers. The conversation touches on her "Pink Is Not a Punishment" campaign and the importance of recruiting the next generation of female workers. This episode is a powerful look at breaking barriers and building a more inclusive future in the trades.
In this episode of Power Women of the Trades, hosts Cassie and Heather chat with Katie Biddle of Call Dad. Katie shares her incredible journey from dropping out of college to becoming the Head of Marketing for a fast-growing HVAC company. The conversation dives into the unique challenges of scaling a business in the trades, including the struggle to delegate and the importance of a diverse marketing strategy. Katie provides an inside look at Dad University, her company's rigorous apprenticeship program, and how a focus on customer experience shapes their entire operation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, growth, and building a strong brand in the trade industry.
In this second part, Cassie and Heather continue their conversation with entrepreneur Ismael Valdez. Valdez, who previously sold his company, shares his journey of launching his new smart thermostat company, Nuve. He discusses the initial challenges he faced and his commitment to listening to customer feedback to perfect his product. The discussion highlights Nuve’s core mission: empowering home service contractors. Valdez explains how the custom-branded thermostat and its app give contractors a direct line to customers, reducing their reliance on expensive marketing platforms. He also reveals upcoming features, including a ServiceTitan integration. The episode concludes with a passionate call for integrity within the industry, emphasizing the importance of genuine support and sharing knowledge to help fellow contractors succeed.
Don't miss out on this insightful conversation. Tune in now to hear the rest of Ismael’s story and learn how you can empower your own business.
This episode features a conversation with Ismael Valdez, a successful entrepreneur and founder of NuveHome. He shares his journey from working behind a supply counter to founding his own businesses. The discussion centers on the crucial role of marketing and recruiting for business growth. Ismael argues that for the first few years, a founder's most important jobs are to act as a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) to get the phones ringing and an HR Manager to attract talent. The episode concludes with advice to study and learn from competitors, as all successful businesses are doing something right, particularly in marketing. Tune in next week for Part 2 of our conversation with Ismael to hear more about his journey!
In this episode of Power Women of the Trades podcast hosts Cassie and Heather are joined by Brianna McAdory Ford, a rising star in the HVAC industry. Brianna shares her journey from dropping out of college to pursue a career in the trades to her current endeavor of launching her own company, All In Heating and Air. Brianna discusses how she got into the industry by chance, starting as a CSR at a small company and helping it grow exponentially. She also reflects on the challenges and advantages of being a woman in the trades, emphasizing the importance of proving her capabilities through action rather than words. The conversation also touches on the problem of unethical gurus in the trades, who prioritize profit over people, and highlights the value of building a strong personal brand and giving back to the community.
Tune in to hear more about Brianna's inspiring journey and her mission to bring integrity back to the trades.