What Denise Swafford Can Teach You About Growth, Tech, and Exit Strategy in Home Services

Growing a successful home service business takes more than technical skills. It takes mentorship, strategy, and a clear plan for scaling and exiting.

In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, Jennifer Bagley and Chuck Staszkiewicz sit down with Denise Swafford, Chief Commercial Officer at P1 Service Group. From working in her father’s HVAC shop to leading one of the most respected brands in the industry, Denise shares the mindset and tactics that helped her rise—and how others can follow that path.

Why This Conversation Matters

Denise’s journey proves that relationships, strategy, and innovation matter just as much as the service you deliver. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing for growth or acquisition, her insights offer a roadmap for doing it the smart way.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

1. How Denise Got Her Start in HVAC

Denise shares how working in her family’s business shaped her understanding of leadership, service, and long-term success.

2. Why Mentorship Is a Game Changer

You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Denise explains how learning from others helped her move faster and avoid major mistakes.

3. The Role of Technology in Today’s Trades

AI and platforms like Rilla are helping contractors improve communication, training, and efficiency. Denise breaks down how to make the most of these tools.

4. How P1 Service Group Finds the Right Partners

Acquisitions work best when there’s a cultural fit. Learn what Denise and her team look for when partnering with other businesses.

5. How to Build a Business That Buyers Want

From solid operations to team development, Denise shares the key ingredients that make a business attractive for acquisition.

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What This Means for You

If you want to grow a service business that stands out, this episode gives you the playbook. From early-stage advice to advanced growth strategy, Denise offers clear direction on how to build something that lasts—and how to position it for a strong exit.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now and learn how to combine strategy, tech, and mentorship to grow your business the right way.

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.

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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.

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