The Best Projects and Programs begin with a Seed of Love and Support
Let’s start a discussion. What would happen if communities, businesses, contractors, creatives, and service providers came together to help people who are trying to build something meaningful, but simply don’t have the resources to get there alone? Not handouts. Not pity. Real opportunities. People with good hearts. People pursuing a dream. People rebuilding after setbacks. People trying to launch businesses that could one day support their families and contribute back into their communities. As a media production company, NWPhotoVideo is preparing community-focused documentary and storytelling projects designed to highlight those individuals and help connect them with real support. That support could mean mentorship, repairs, services, sponsorships, business assistance, transportation, food support, hair and makeup, vehicle repairs, or simply giving someone visibility and encouragement when the world has overlooked them. We are willing to volunteer much of our labor to help make these stories happen, while working to secure sponsorships that help cover the heavy production costs behind professional media work. The bigger question is this: Who would actually be willing to step in and help? Because I believe there are still a lot of good people out there. We’ve just become disconnected from one another. Most people don’t even know their neighbors anymore. It’s time to change that.Weekly virtual networking
We’re trying something new in the community! Starting March 17, we’re hosting a weekly 30-minute networking session for home service pros across all industries. Join one session or all four—no commitment. These will run once a week until April 7 while we pilot the idea. 👉 Link to join: https://meet.google.com/vmf-xjiw-iad 👈 The goal is simple: bring a challenge and get ideas from other pros. Format: • Quick intros • Everyone shares one challenge • Group feedback and ideas • Quick wrap-up 🕒 Tuesdays at 11:30 AM ET ⏱️ 30 minutes Interested? Comment below then we'll invite you and send you a reminder email with the link!
Thoughts on this letter?
I wrote an open letter to Mike Rowe and spammed it on all my socials and sent it in multiple emails to someone who may have access to him. I am curious on what others think about this: Mike, You’ve spent years shining a spotlight on the dignity of skilled work and the real opportunities that exist outside the traditional four-year college path. That message has resonated with a lot of people—including those of us actually out here doing the work, building things, fixing what breaks, and keeping everyday life running. But there’s a gap in the conversation that needs more attention. We keep hearing about six-figure opportunities in the trades, about shortages of skilled labor, and about how young people should step into these roles. On paper, it sounds like a simple equation: high demand equals high pay. In reality, it’s not that straightforward—especially at the level where most people actually start. The truth is, a large portion of trade work in this country is carried by small, entry-level contractors—men and women who own small businesses, often running tight margins, juggling inconsistent workloads, and competing with larger operations that dominate big contracts. These small operators are not making six figures themselves in many cases. So how are they supposed to pay entry-level workers anything close to that? The economics don’t line up. Large-scale projects—the kind that can sustain higher wages—are often controlled by well-funded companies with deep pockets and established networks. Meanwhile, the smaller infrastructure—the local electricians, plumbers, welders, and general contractors—are left fighting over thinner slices of the pie. They are essential, but they’re not positioned to offer the kind of compensation that keeps new talent from drifting elsewhere. So when we tell young people, “Go into the trades, you can make great money,” we’re skipping the part where they spend years underpaid, working for small businesses that are themselves trying to survive. That’s where your voice—and your platform—could push the conversation further. You’ve advocated for scholarships and support for individuals entering the trades, which is valuable. But what if the focus expanded beyond the worker and included the small businesses that train them? What if more money was put directly into the hands of deserving small contractors—not as loans that burden them further, but as true investments or grants? Funding that helps them: Pay apprentices a livable wage Invest in better tools and equipment. Take on larger jobs they otherwise couldn’t access. Actually grow into the kind of companies that can sustain those six-figure roles we keep talking about Because without strengthening the foundation—the small businesses that train and employ new workers—the pipeline of skilled labor will continue to struggle. Right now, we’re asking the bottom of the system to fix a top-heavy problem. If we want more skilled professionals, we don’t just need willing workers—we need stronger, better-supported employers at the ground level. Otherwise, the gap between expectation and reality will keep widening. You’ve already done a lot to change how people view skilled labor. This is an opportunity to push that impact even further—by addressing not just the workforce, but the ecosystem they depend on. Respectfully, Someone in the trenches trying to make it make senseWhat are the best business coaching programs for home service business owners?
Does anyone have a recommendation for a residential construction/remodeling coaching program with systems, daily operations, hiring etc? Looking for a program that you have had personal success with. Thank you in advance!
Finalists - Jobber Grant!
Mid July 2025: Finalist Selection - Finalists will be contacted to complete a final round of questions. August 2025: Recipient announcement - Jobber will announce 15 grant recipients and spotlight their stories to share with our community. We’re so honored to be part of this journey and can’t wait to hear who the finalists are! The opportunity to dream big and think about how this grant could support our business has already been such a valuable experience. Whether it’s investing in new equipment, expanding services, or finding ways to give back to the community — the possibilities feel wide open. What would you do with the grant if you got it? It’s so inspiring to hear how others in the home service world are aiming high and making an impact. Wishing everyone the best of luck — and no matter what happens, here’s to continuing to raise the bar for excellence in our industry. -Corissa - Mountain Marine ltd.
From weekend side hustle to full-time: what would you start with?
Hey everyone We’re in NJ and exploring starting a weekend home service business that could eventually replace full-time income. My husband comes from road service and gas station inventory work—very hands-on, problem-solving, and customer-facing. The plan is to start on weekends, replace overtime first, and grow from there. For those who’ve done it: - What service did you start with on weekends? - What would you do differently if you were starting again? - Any service you wish you hadn’t tried? Would love to hear real stories and lessons learned.Who is running off of EOS? How has it helped your business grow?
I am a member of a local BNI group. Recently I had a EOS coach join my BNI chapter. I did a free 90 minute consultation with him on EOS. I am looking at potentially making the investment to hire them and fully implement EOS into my business. I'm just curious how it is working for others before jumping into it. EOS is based off the book, "Traction" my Gino Wickman.
