Episodios

  • Matt Grassmyer | Proactive Roofing Sales | Mission Control Podcast
    Apr 1 2026

    In this episode of the mission control podcast Mike sits down with Matt Grassmyer, the Director of Outside Sales at HailTrace, a weather consulting company specializing in severe weather forensics. Matt shares how roofing companies can master customer acquisition before, during, and after a storm. He explains that the biggest mistake roofers make is waiting for weather to hit before seeking new opportunities , emphasizing the need to build brand awareness 365 days a year. Matt highlights using HailTrace's technology to monitor past customers' neighborhoods, providing peace of mind and generating easy referrals. He also covers post-storm follow-up strategies and using sales feedback to build a purposeful content calendar.

    Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5

    Check out Opus Clips:

    https://www.opus.pro/

    Check Out Hail Trace:

    Website: https://hailtrace.com/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HailTrace

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hail-trace/

    Instragram: https://www.instagram.com/hailtrace

    Matt Grassmyer

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.grassmyer

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-r-grassmyer/

    About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency

    Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.

    Work with Ascend Digital Agency:

    Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/

    Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/

    Follow Michael Stearns:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/

    Follow Ascend Digital Agency:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital

    Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!

    New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-control-podcast/id1646120629

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1VX3wdC4b2j5Fb1V9V9yNo?si=8e1b139e5f1a4e87

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    17 m
  • Danny Shannon | 16 Years Sober | Mission Control Podcast
    Mar 30 2026

    In this episode, Mike sits down with Danny Shannon, who joins the show from Australia to share his incredible journey from the depths of addiction to 16 years of recovery. Danny's struggle began at age 14, leading to a daily heroin habit by 15 and nearly two decades of cycles involving incarceration and substance abuse. Throughout the conversation, Danny dives into the reality of early recovery anxiety, the importance of daily inventories for staying on track, and the inspiration behind his innovative app, Encapsulator. This platform allows users to record raw video messages to their future selves as a therapeutic tool for accountability and tracking personal growth, reflecting Danny's mission to help others find lasting serenity.

    Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5

    Danny Shannon:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danny.shannon.395

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dannyshannon1908

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dan_the_man_46_/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-a-shannon-05a109163/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@danny_shannon_1975

    Encapsulator App:

    Website: https://encapsulator.io/

    About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency

    Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.

    Work with Ascend Digital Agency:

    Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/

    Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/

    Follow Michael Stearns:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/

    Follow Ascend Digital Agency:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital

    Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!

    New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

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    45 m
  • Jeffrey Teitelbaum | Cop Turned Roofer | Mission Control Podcast
    Mar 21 2026
    In this episode of the Mission Control podcast, Mike welcomes Jeffrey Teitelbaum, the owner of RST Roofing and Renovation based in Decatur, Georgia. Jeffrey shares the fascinating story of his career pivot from serving as an Atlanta police detective to working as an insurance adjuster, and finally launching his own roofing company in 2019 just months before the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on his background in finance and business, Jeffrey discusses his "slow burn" approach to growth, emphasizing organic SEO and brand presence over high-pressure lead generation services. The conversation explores the operational challenges of running a business, including his recent transition to AccuLynx for better reporting and a more professional customer experience. Looking ahead to 2026, Jeffrey sets an ambitious goal to dominate his market through consistent video content, focusing on "what to expect" guides and social proof to build deep trust with the next generation of homeowners. Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 Jeffrey Teitelbaum: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeffrey.teitelbaum.5 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-t-a3270b1a/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jefftee89/ RST Roofing & Renovations: Website: https://rst-roofing.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rstroofingco YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RSTRoofingandRenovations Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rstroofing/ RST Roofing and Renovations is a premier roofing contractor in Georgia serving the Metro Atlanta area. As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor with an A+ BBB rating, they specialize in high-quality residential and commercial roofing solutions, including full roof replacements, leak repairs, and storm damage restoration. Serving cities like Decatur, Marietta, and Smyrna, RST is known for its expertise in navigating the insurance claim process and providing thorough roof inspections. Their commitment to transparency and craftsmanship makes them a trusted name for asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and TPO systems across the region. About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.
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    33 m
  • George Schiano | Don't Be Cheap | Mission Control Podcast
    Mar 20 2026

    In this episode of the Mission Control podcast, Mike Stearns welcomes George Schiano, the owner of Epic Exteriors in New Jersey. George shares the compelling story of launching his business six years ago, driven to start his own LLC the very night his previous employer announced a cut to his sales commissions. Starting with a hyper-focus on roofing, George explains how he organically expanded his services to include siding, windows, doors, and more by fulfilling the requests of past clients who already trusted his work. The conversation explores his unique sales strategies, such as leading with 48 months of interest-free financing, and the importance of taking full accountability, highlighted by a wild story of making things right after a nail gun accidentally fell through a client's ceiling.

    Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free:

    https://shorturl.at/quCQ5

    George Schiano:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/george.schiano.58

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-schiano-2b052b1a7/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schiano39/

    Epic Exteriors:

    Website: https://epicexteriorsnj.com/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EpicExteriorsNJ/

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@epicexteriorsnj

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicexteriorsnj

    About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency

    Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.

    Work with Ascend Digital Agency:

    Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/

    Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/

    Follow Michael Stearns:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/

    Follow Ascend Digital Agency:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital

    Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!

    New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

    Más Menos
    54 m
  • Pete McKendrick | Roofing's "High Floor" Strategy | Mission Control Podcast
    Mar 11 2026

    In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Mike Stearns sits down with Pete McKendrick, the Product Strategy Lead at Roofr, to break down the shifting landscape of the roofing industry as it enters 2026. Reflecting on a "stormless" 2025 that saw many contractors struggling with a lack of weather-driven sales, Pete emphasizes the critical need for robust internal systems and business diversification into services like siding and gutters to maintain profitability during down years. The conversation dives deep into the "high floor" strategy for 2026, touching on the rising costs of customer acquisition and the emerging influence of AI-powered search engines on homeowner behavior. Pete offers a powerful piece of leadership advice for the year ahead

    Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free:

    https://shorturl.at/quCQ5

    Roofr:

    Website: https://roofr.com/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getroofr

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getroofr/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@getroofr

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/roofr/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkQY-QKisn1rQSLwVgPIydQ

    Pete McKendrick:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pete.mckendrick.7

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-mckendrick-089079174/

    About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency

    Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.

    Work with Ascend Digital Agency:

    Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/

    Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/

    Follow Michael Stearns:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/

    Follow Ascend Digital Agency:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital

    Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!

    New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

    Más Menos
    23 m
  • Andy Keys | The Key to Success | Mission Control Podcast
    Mar 6 2026
    In this episode, Mike Stearns sits down with Andy Keys, Owner and CEO of FoxHaven Roofing Group for a raw conversation about what it truly takes to build an empire. Andy shares his incredible journey from battling addiction and living in his car to running massive roofing and metal supply companies. They dive into the exact strategies fueling his growth—from why hiding your prices online is costing you leads, to the absolute necessity of shooting video content even when it's uncomfortable. They also break down the future of SEO with AI search, the importance of tracking true ROAS based on gross profit, and how to transition from chasing short-term leads to playing the long game. Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 Andy Keys: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andy.keys.522 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theandykeys/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theandykeys_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theandykeys Metal Ops: Website: https://metal-ops.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565566779182 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Metal-Ops Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/metal_ops/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@metal.ops FoxHaven Roofing Group: Website: https://foxhavenroof.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foxhavenroofing YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UC3pkM6f-6toklxvpWCZ6jNQ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@foxhavenroofing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foxhavenroofing/ About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-control-podcast/id1646120629 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1VX3wdC4b2j5Fb1V9V9yNo?si=8e1b139e5f1a4e87
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    1 h y 13 m
  • Pancho Serrano | Roofers Going Digital | Mission Control Podcast
    Feb 27 2026

    In this episode of the Mission Control podcast, Mike Stearns interviews Pancho Serrano, founder of Roofers Going Digital, about his journey from a corporate BMW role in Mexico to the U.S. roofing industry. Pancho details his transition into commercial roofing sales and the eventual launch of his agency, which focuses on a "three-pillar" LinkedIn strategy involving organic content, Sales Navigator prospecting, and targeted ads.

    The conversation highlights the critical importance of building an authentic brand and maintaining "back to basics" fundamentals like networking and local community involvement to stay competitive as AI changes the digital landscape.

    Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5

    Pancho Serrano:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pancho.serrano.731

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panchoserrano101/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@panchoserrano9

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franciscoserranoroofingmarketing/

    Roofers Going Digital:

    Website: https://roofersgoingdigital.com/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roofersgoingdigital/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roofersgoingdigital/

    X: https://x.com/roofersgoingdig

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/roofersgoingdigital/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@roofersgoingdigital?

    About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency

    Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.

    Work with Ascend Digital Agency:

    Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/

    Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/

    Follow Michael Stearns:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/

    Follow Ascend Digital Agency:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital

    Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!

    New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-control-podcast/id1646120629

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1VX3wdC4b2j5Fb1V9V9yNo?si=8e1b139e5f1a4e87

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    56 m
  • Sheldon Murphy & Raymond Wendell Little | Running a Roofing Business | Mission Control Podcast
    Feb 18 2026

    In this special episode of the Mission Control podcast, Mike sits down with Sheldon Murphy, the owner & CEO at TSM Roofing in Phoenix, Arizona, and Raymond Wendell Little, the former owner and founder of Perimeter Roofing in Atlanta, Georgia. The trio explores the challenges of recruiting top-tier sales talent, comparing Sheldon's preference for stable, family-oriented producers with Raymond's success in hiring "gunslingers" and second-chance individuals. They share unconventional scouting methods, such as finding disciplined recruits at gyms or local 5K races, and emphasize that true discipline is often visible through punctuality and physical fitness before an interview even begins.

    The conversation also dives into the leadership required to scale a business, discussing the transition from a "boss" to a "leader" within the 1099 model. They break down why salespeople often fail due to complacency or a lack of pipeline management and explain how owners can intervene by getting back in the truck to coach reps through authentic, one-on-one mentorship. From navigating insurance compliance to the importance of being an "authority in roofing," this episode provides raw insights into building a high-performance culture that thrives on the "eat what you kill" mentality.

    Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5

    ======================================================================

    ABOUT TSM ROOFING LLC

    TSM Roofing LLC is a licensed, bonded, and insured roofing company serving the state of Arizona with physical offices in Phoenix (Maricopa County) and Prescott Valley (Yavapai County). Under the leadership of founder Sheldon Murphy, TSM Roofing LLC has established a reputation for excellence in roof replacement, repair, and solar detachment services.

    The organization is a recognized Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, a distinction held by only approximately the top 1% of roofers nationwide. We are dedicated to providing durable roofing solutions and active community support throughout the Phoenix Metro and Quad-City regions.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSMRoofingLLC/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tsm_roofing

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tsm-roofing-llc

    BBB: https://www.bbb.org/us/az/phoenix/profile/roofing-contractors/tsm-roofing-1126-1000054487

    Owens Corning Platinum Preferred: https://www.owenscorning.com/en-us/roofing/contractors/contractor-profile/232418

    ======================================================================

    ABOUT THE OWNER:

    TSM Roofing LLC was founded by Sheldon Murphy, a second-generation roofer with deep roots in the Arizona construction industry. Sheldon's expertise isn't just academic, it was earned on the rooftops of Arizona.

    Hands-On Experience: Sheldon first set foot on a roof at age 14, spending his summers as a laborer learning the fundamentals of roof installation and tear-offs.

    Professional Pedigree: Before founding TSM Roofing, Sheldon completed a rigorous Union Carpenter's Apprenticeship, earning Journeyman status. This technical background ensures that every TSM project adheres to the highest structural standards.

    Industry Leadership: Under Sheldon's leadership, TSM Roofing has achieved the Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor status, a distinction held by only the top 1% of roofing contractors in the nation. He is also a certified member of the Tile Roofing Industry (TRI) Alliance.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smurph39

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheldon-murphy-tsmroofing/

    ======================================================================

    Follow Raymond Wendell Little:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raymond.little.520

    ======================================================================

    Contact us : takeoff@ascenddigitalexperts.com

    Let's Connect! ==== ==== ====

    Website: https://bit.ly/3NQXXKK

    Facebook: https://bit.ly/3xH8VaT

    Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3RWTSyr

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    1 h y 14 m