Learn · January 28, 2026
Navigating AI, Change & Growth in Home Services | Robert Leath Episode
Explore how HVAC entrepreneur Robert Leath navigates AI, change, and growth in home services. Real-world lessons on leadership, risk, and scaling smarter.
By The Catalyst Editorial Team Operator education · 1 min read
In a world of AI acceleration, tech disruption, and changing customer expectations, how do you launch and scale a service business without losing your grip or your values?
In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, host Jennifer Bagley sits down with Robert Leath, founder of a fast-growing residential HVAC company, and Vee Nettles, senior account executive at CI Web Group. Together, they explore what it really takes to build a business in a high-change, high-tech environment.
It’s an honest conversation about risk, decision-making, leadership, and the mindset shifts required to not only keep up, but lead.
Why You Should Listen
If you’re in the trenches of building a service business, or feeling overwhelmed by new tech and AI buzz, this episode offers a real-world perspective.
Hear how Robert:
- Left a secure corporate job to start from scratch with four kids at home
- Funded his launch the right way to avoid costly rework
- Used trust and humility as strategic advantages
- Tackled AI without being a tech expert
- Found early traction using smart platforms, strong partnerships, and daily experimentation
This is a grounded look at what adapting really looks like from the field.
