From Family Trades to Independent Success: Cody McLeod on Business, Competition, and Culture

In this episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the world of plumbing and entrepreneurship with Cody McLeod. Cody is a second-generation plumber who has spent over a decade working alongside his father before venturing out to establish his own business. With more than 18 years of experience in the industry, Cody brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into the challenges and rewards of running a plumbing business.

Cody shares his journey into the trades, recounting how he got started and what drew him to this field. He discusses the initial difficulties he faced when starting his own business, highlighting the steep learning curve involved in building a new service and operations from the ground up. Despite his extensive experience, Cody admits that there are always new lessons to learn, especially on the service side of the industry.

A significant part of our conversation centers around company culture. Cody emphasizes the importance of maintaining traditional values while incorporating modern technology to enhance customer service. He believes in fostering a culture that supports the growth of both current and future employees, ensuring that everyone progresses together. This commitment to culture and development has been a cornerstone of his business strategy.

We also explore the dynamics of working in the same industry as his family. Cody candidly discusses the friendly competition between his company and his father’s, illustrating how it has motivated him to innovate and improve continually.

Marketing is another key topic in this episode. Cody shares his approach to marketing, which includes guerrilla marketing tactics and building a strong brand. He explains how he leverages social media not only to attract customers but also to educate both employees and clients.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Cody offers invaluable advice. He underscores the importance of working for someone you admire and soaking up as much knowledge as possible. He also touches on the significance of believing in oneself and overcoming impostor syndrome. With more than ten employees and four vehicles under his management, Cody’s story is a testament to the power of grit, determination, and self-belief.

Join us for an insightful conversation that sheds light on the intricacies of the plumbing industry, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the importance of a strong company culture. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting, this episode offers something for everyone.

Stay tuned for our other home service podcast!