How Karen Sager Is Using Innovation to Disrupt the Gutter Guard Industry

The gutter industry doesn’t usually scream innovation. But Karen Sager is changing that.

In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, Chuck Staszkiewicz talks with Karen about her journey from corporate banking to becoming a leader in home improvement manufacturing. Her company’s micro mesh gutter guards, infused with copper, are tackling common issues like moss and algae while setting a new standard for performance and durability.

This isn’t just a product story. It’s a blueprint for building a modern business in the trades.

Why This Episode Matters

Karen isn’t just improving gutter technology. She’s rewriting the playbook on how to scale, market, and innovate in an often overlooked space. Her story offers clear lessons for contractors, manufacturers, and service business owners looking to grow smarter.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

1. How Micro Mesh Gutter Guards Are Changing the Game

Karen explains the science behind her product and how it solves the clogging and deterioration problems that traditional gutter systems can’t.

2. Why Copper Is the Secret Weapon

Copper doesn’t just look good. It prevents moss and algae growth, extending the life and performance of the product.

3. Scaling With Smart Business Systems

From operations to sales, Karen shares how she built systems that keep her team lean, productive, and ready to scale.

4. Why Financial Literacy Matters for Growth

Karen explains how a strong financial foundation helped her navigate big decisions and expand with confidence.

5. Using Licensing to Expand Faster

Instead of trying to do it all in-house, Karen is leveraging licensing models to grow her reach while staying focused on innovation.

6. Rethinking Marketing in the Trades

Karen discusses how she’s finding success beyond traditional trade shows, using unique strategies to reach new audiences and drive demand.

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What This Means for Your Business

If you’re in home services, innovation isn’t optional. Whether it’s through product upgrades, smarter systems, or new marketing approaches, the companies that grow are the ones that adapt.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now and learn how to innovate, scale, and stay ahead in a competitive industry.

Meet Your Hosts

Jennifer Bagley 

Jennifer Bagley is the CEO and founder of CI Web Group, an AI-enabled marketing agency helping home service businesses achieve exceptional growth. With over 15 years of experience, she has led companies to significantly increase their leads and revenue through innovative strategies and emerging technologies. Her 12 Step Roadmap to Accelerated Results is a trusted framework for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies looking to expand their markets and achieve lasting success.

Chuck Staszkiewicz 

Chuck is an accomplished entrepreneur and growth strategist, renowned for scaling All Hours Plumbing into a $20 million industry leader before its successful sale in 2023. With a passion for driving business success, he now co-leads The Opus & Golds Group, empowering companies to grow through innovative strategies and operational excellence. Through his work, Chuck continues to inspire entrepreneurs to achieve their highest potential.

Don’t Fall Behind. Subscribe Now.

The trades industry is moving fast. If you’re not learning, you’re losing. Catalyst for the Trades gives you real strategies from real experts. No fluff, just what’s working.

🎧 Subscribe on your favorite podcast app to get the insights you need to stay ahead, grow smarter, and win more business.

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