How to Lead, Serve, and Grow in the Trades with Raul Rodriguez

If you ever wondered what it truly takes to build a resilient, thriving home services business—one that keeps winning no matter the market—this episode is for you.

On Catalyst for the Trades, Jennifer Bagley and Chuck Staszkiewicz sit down with Raul Rodriguez, founder of Power Pro Plumbing. Raul's nearly 40-year career in the trades is a masterclass in servant leadership, team building, and adaptation. His story goes way beyond profit: He’s lived through every era in this business, from the 1980s to today, and he’s still pushing the industry forward.

Why You Should Listen

Raul breaks down what it really takes to build a company people want to work for, and customers want to return to, year after year. Whether you’re thinking about the trades as a solid career, running your own shop, or searching for an edge to grow faster, Raul shares battle-tested lessons you can use right now, from hiring and training to leveraging technology and creating a culture employees rave about.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

1. Why Serving Comes Before Selling
   Raul’s philosophy is simple: you can’t succeed in the trades without genuinely serving people. Find out why focusing on human connection, and not just technical skills or the next sale, creates lasting value for your business and your team.
2. The Secret to Attracting Top Talent
   Today, Raul can “cherry pick” the best technicians. He reveals how building a business with a great culture, clear processes, and strong accountability makes hiring easier, especially when other companies struggle to fill roles.
3. Why Accountability is the Real Job Security
   Discover how consistent, caring accountability gives employees a sense of purpose, stability, and growth. Raul explains why team members crave direction, mentorship, and clear expectations.
4. Turning Economic Downturns Into Growth
   Raul’s company saw its greatest expansion during the 2008 crash. Hear how focusing on customer service, structured processes, and team development can turn tough times into the ultimate opportunity.
5. Using Technology to Unlock More Human Time
   From AI-enabled websites to automating routine tasks, Raul and Jennifer talk about how the right tools free up your team to do what matters: connecting and serving customers.
6. Why Hiring for Personality Beats Years of Experience
   Chuck and Raul agree: attitude and trainability matter more than a flashy resume. Hear how younger, fast-learning recruits (even “green” ones) can outpace industry vets with the proper guidance, structure, and new technology.
7. Building Systems That Outlast You
   Leadership isn’t just about inspiration. Raul shares the “three pillars” every owner must master: understanding the trade, developing people, and running the numbers (minus the emotions)

Staying Humble, Staying AheadRaul’s humility and relentless learning are at the heart of his company’s success. Learn why being open to new ideas, feedback, and even tough conversations is what separates true industry leaders from the pack.