Unleashing Success: Trey McWilliams on Mastering Growth and Leadership in Home Services

12/02/2025 47 min
Unleashing Success: Trey McWilliams on Mastering Growth and Leadership in Home Services

Listen "Unleashing Success: Trey McWilliams on Mastering Growth and Leadership in Home Services"

Episode Synopsis

Join Jennifer Bagley as she hosts Trey McWilliams, CEO of McWilliams & Sons and founder of Blue Cardinal Home Services Group, in this enlightening episode of "Catalyst for the Trades." Discover the journey of this third-generation leader as he shares his insights into scaling a home services business with a strong focus on people and leadership development. Trey discusses the decision-making process behind selecting a private equity partner, building a long-term strategic platform, and the significance of financial literacy in business operations. Explore the challenges, lessons learned, and the importance of setting your team up for success as Trey candidly shares his experiences from the trenches of the home services industry.Timestamps:00:00 - IntroductionJennifer Bagley welcomes listeners and introduces her guest, Trey McWilliams.01:09 - BackgroundTrey shares his journey from growing up in the trades to leading his family business.02:02 - Business ExpansionDiscusses the growth of McWilliams & Sons and the establishment of Blue Cardinal Group.03:46 - Decision-Making ProcessInsights into why building a platform with a private equity partner was the chosen path.07:51 - Leadership ChallengesThe balance of running the business and managing operational and financial complexities.10:32 - Lessons LearnedTrey's reflections on financial accountability and leadership development.17:13 - People First ApproachHow focusing on people and culture drives long-term business success.21:10 - Transitioning LeadershipDiscussing the potential paths for business owners considering future transitions.27:46 - Setting Up for SuccessThe importance of clear expectations, communication, and accountability.33:19 - Options for GrowthExploring strategic partnerships and reinvestment for business expansion.40:44 - Emotional Journey of ChangeNavigating the emotional aspects of business transitions and partnerships.46:26 - Closing RemarksJennifer and Trey recap key takeaways and encourage proactive business management.Guest Details:Trey McWilliamsTitle: CEO of McWilliams & Sons, Founder of Blue Cardinal Home Services GroupBackground: As a third-generation leader in the home services industry, Trey has successfully expanded his family's business through strategic partnerships and acquisitions while focusing on cultivating leadership within his organization.Relevant Links:McWilliams & SonBlue Cardinal Home Services GroupEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

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