Navigating AI, Change, and Growth in Home Services

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.

Highlights from the Episode

Leaving Comfort for Ownership

Robert shares how he transitioned out of a well-established HVAC company—one acquired multiple times by private equity—and made the leap into entrepreneurship. With no roadmap, he leaned into faith, partnership, and smart preparation.

"I didn’t know if leaving was going to solve the problem, but staying wasn’t either."

Funding Smart, Not Lean

Instead of bootstrapping and hoping for the best, Robert took the financial leap early, refinancing his home to launch with brand standards, wrapped vehicles, and software from day one.

“I only knew how to show up looking professional. That’s what I’d been trained to do.”

Building with Trust, Not Ego

Robert emphasizes how choosing the right partners, and letting go of the need to be the smartest person in the room, was essential. He credits humility, curiosity, and strategic delegation for his early growth.

Adopting AI: Learning by Doing

Robert didn’t wait to understand everything before getting started. He took small steps, got hands-on, and leaned into the messiness of AI adoption.

• Started using Manus and Just Start AI to experiment with super agents
• Connected software like ServiceTitan to build smart automations
• Created AI-powered scripts and content tailored to specific age demographics
• Began testing tools for personalized quoting, scheduling, and customer communication

"I’m not a tech guy. I had to force myself to figure it out, but now I see the results."

He’s already seeing inquiries from outside his local market, thanks to AI-enhanced visibility and smart SEO strategies.

Human Connection Still Wins

Despite automation, Robert believes that what still matters most is the human side of business. Whether it’s an AI-boosted script or a FaceTime sales call, success comes from:

• Adapting communication to fit different customer expectations
• Prioritizing education and transparency over pressure
• Using tools like ChatGPT with homeowners to co-create quotes and build trust

"Technology can help, but it’s how you use it that builds the relationship."

Real Talk About Risk, Progress, and Patience

This episode doesn’t glamorize the process. Robert openly shares the financial pressure, steep learning curves, and trial-and-error involved. But he makes it clear: the effort is worth it.

• Embracing AI requires more grit than genius
• Success comes from iteration, not perfection
• Time spent experimenting now creates freedom later

"You’ve got to give it 120 days. Don’t expect magic on day one. Train it like you’d train a new team member."

What This Means for You

Whether you're an owner, operator, or team leader in home services, this conversation offers a realistic roadmap:

• You don’t need to master AI; you need to be willing to test
• Building the right foundation matters more than going fast
• The future is a mix of human experience + smart automation

Listen Now for Real-World Insight

If you want clear, actionable insight into navigating change, scaling smarter, and using AI in a way that fits your business, this episode delivers.

🎧 Tune in to learn how mindset, trust, and a willingness to act can move you forward.

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. A co-founder of The Opus & Golds Group, he helps companies grow through innovative strategies and operational excellence. Through his work, Chuck continues to inspire entrepreneurs to achieve their highest potential.

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