Lisa DeMaria, founder of Utopia HR Solutions, joins us to discuss strategic compensation planning and employee retention for small to mid-sized businesses in the trades industry. We explore how to create competitive compensation packages that go beyond salary, including flexible benefits, performance-based incentives, and structured development programs that help retain top talent. Lisa shares practical insights on simplifying HR processes, tracking key metrics for success, and building a culture of growth through mentoring and individual development plans.

To connect with Lisa or learn more about Utopia HR Solutions, visit https://www.utopiahr.com/

Join us as we sit down with Mike Freeman, Co-Founder of Mike's Quality Painting and One Day Concrete Coatings, and newest Associate Coach with Nolan Consulting Group. From starting a lawn mowing business with his brother at age 11 to building multiple successful ventures in Albuquerque, Mike shares his journey of creating opportunity-driven businesses that operate without constant owner involvement. He discusses how he successfully transitioned day-to-day operations while focusing on real estate investments and coaching, demonstrating the importance of strategic partnerships and complementary risk tolerances. Mike's story shows how prioritizing relationships, embracing calculated risk, and building the right systems can help trades business owners truly get "out of the hourglass.”

Implementing robust safety practices creates a powerful dual advantage—protecting your most valuable asset, your people, while simultaneously driving business growth and opportunity. Paul Cook and Darren Lottes of Painters USA and pioneers of Safety within the Summit group, share field-tested insights on transforming safety from a compliance burden into a strategic cornerstone that builds team trust, reduces costs, and creates competitive differentiation. This is about creating an environment where protection and production reinforce rather than compete with each other.

Summit Members interested in Safety Certification, please contact Jen Ware, Jen@nolancg.com

To learn more about Safety Reports by Align Ops: Click Here

Special Pricing Offer for Summit Members & Out of the Hourglass Listeners: 25% off User Fees for their 1st year of Safety Reports.

OR Visit Link
https://www.safety-reports.com/?utm_source=NCG_Pod&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=website