Windshield Time
Windshield Time, formerly known as The Service Contractor Radio Show is a podcast dedicated to home service technicians and salespeople. Your host, Chris Elmore will be there for you during your windshield time (or whenever you have time to listen!) to give advice on managing customer expectations, obliterating objections and connecting with your customers on a deeper level in the home.
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What Customers Really Decide in the First 10 Minutes of a Service Call
11/19/2025
What Customers Really Decide in the First 10 Minutes of a Service Call
Customers decide more in the first 10 minutes than most technicians realize. Company reputation may get you the call — but your credibility determines everything that happens after the door opens. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Brandon Cockrell break down the quiet, powerful signals that make customers trust you…or question you. From the moment you park the truck to the way you introduce yourself, customers are reading your appearance, confidence, preparation, and clarity. You’ll learn: The credibility signals customers notice instantly Why “borrowed trust” from the company fades fast The posture, tone, and confidence cues that reassure homeowners Why some techs get requested—and others don’t How preparation turns uncertainty into authority This episode is a must-watch for any technician who wants to build trust, earn loyalty, and dominate the first 10 minutes of every call. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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How Technicians Lose Customers Without Even Realizing It
11/12/2025
How Technicians Lose Customers Without Even Realizing It
Most technicians think their job is to fix the system. But great technicians know—the real mission is to serve the person behind the problem. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Brandon Cockrell break down why The People Are the Priority in every home service call. They explore why techs fall into target fixation, how base programming shapes reactions under pressure, and what it takes to rewire your habits through empathy, communication, and emotional awareness. You’ll learn: Why technical perfection means nothing without connection The firefighter analogy that changes how you see your job How to retrain your instincts through empathy and listening What cognitive tunneling teaches about mistakes and focus Why serving people first transforms your results 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Why People Don’t Listen to You (and How to Fix It)
11/05/2025
Why People Don’t Listen to You (and How to Fix It)
Most people don’t want your advice. They don’t want you to fix their problem. They just want to feel understood. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Brandon Cockrell unpack what it means to be a Super Communicator — someone who knows how to connect with people’s needs before trying to change their minds. They’ll show you how DISC profiles, empathy, and body language can help you connect better — with your team, your customers, and your family. Because once you know whether someone needs to be helped, heard, or hugged, you stop talking past people… and start reaching them. You’ll learn: Why connection always comes before persuasion How to adapt your communication to someone’s DISC type Why empathy builds trust faster than logic ever will The three types of conversations (and how to spot them) How great communicators make people feel seen Communication isn’t about words — it’s about understanding. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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How Habits Shape 40% of Your Day (and Your Success)
10/29/2025
How Habits Shape 40% of Your Day (and Your Success)
Most of your day runs on autopilot — about 40% of it, to be exact. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Brandon Cockrell dig into the Power of Habit — how tiny routines decide your results long before motivation does. From trading a morning Dr Pepper for water to learning how Tony Dungy rebuilt a football team through simplicity, this episode shows how to change your routines without changing your goals. You’ll learn: The cue–routine–reward loop that controls behavior Why 40% of your day is habit, not choice How to build a morning routine that sets your tone for success What Tony Dungy and J. J. Watt can teach about discipline How techs can use habit loops to improve in-home performance If you’re stuck in the same results, it’s not you — it’s your routine. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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How Curiosity Closes More Calls (and Builds Real Trust)
10/22/2025
How Curiosity Closes More Calls (and Builds Real Trust)
In the trades, most techs learn to fix things...only a few learn to notice things. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Brandon Cockrell reveal the hidden skill that separates average technicians from elite ones: curiosity. Curious technicians ask better questions, read environments faster, and earn trust without forcing it. Observation helps you see what others miss — and that’s where real connection starts. They’ll show you how to: -Use observation to anticipate customer needs and objections -Ask natural, curiosity-driven questions that open conversation -Spot key decision-makers and emotional triggers without guessing -Turn small talk into meaningful connection -Build confidence that customers can feel — before you ever present a price As Brandon says: “When you notice what others don’t, you connect before you even start talking.” If you’re ready to elevate from being a communicator to being a connector, this episode will teach you how to turn curiosity into confidence — and confidence into results. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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How Top Technicians Produce Revenue without Losing Integrity
10/15/2025
How Top Technicians Produce Revenue without Losing Integrity
What’s the difference between a good technician and a complete professional? In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Jesse Olson break down the final role in the Four Technician Roles framework: the Revenue Producer. Most techs think revenue means “selling.” It doesn’t. As Jesse says: “Revenue without excellence is the grind. Excellence without revenue is a hobby.” Being a Revenue Producer means owning your time, your results, and your responsibility to the company and the customer. It’s not about pressure — it’s about stewardship. You’ll learn: What it really means to be a Revenue Producer How discipline connects excellence to results Why performance pay is a reflection of stewardship, not sales pressure How to communicate value without sounding like a salesperson Why being a professional means caring about both service and revenue If you’re an HVAC, plumbing, or electrical tech who wants to grow beyond just fixing, this is the mindset shift that creates long-term career success. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Good Techs Fix. Great Techs Solve and Communicate.
10/08/2025
Good Techs Fix. Great Techs Solve and Communicate.
Every service technician can fix things...but not every tech is a true problem solver. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Jesse Olson break down what problem solving really means in the trades. It’s not just diagnosing and repairing — it’s about translation, communication, and trust. Too many techs either exaggerate the danger or minimize the value of their work. Both erode trust. Customers don’t just want something fixed — they want to understand the problem, the risks, the options, and why your solution is worth it. Chris and Jesse explain why translation (not just explanation) is the technician’s most overlooked skill, how to use analogies without cheapening your value, and why presenting clear options helps customers make the right decision without pressure or manipulation. If you’re in HVAC, plumbing, or electrical, this episode will sharpen your communication skills and show you how to go from just fixing problems to building customer confidence for life. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why technical excellence is the foundation of problem-solving How to set expectations and build trust with customers The dangers of exaggerating or minimizing repairs Why translation—not just explanation—is the real technician’s edge How to use analogies wisely (and avoid ones that kill trust) Why presenting clear options helps customers choose with confidence How permanent solutions rely on both skill and communication 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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The Overlooked Skills That Make Great Service Technicians
10/01/2025
The Overlooked Skills That Make Great Service Technicians
What separates an average technician from one customers love and leaders promote? It’s not just technical skill — it’s the discipline and soft skills that build trust. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore sits down with Jesse Olson and David Grennel. David shares his personal transformation — losing 70 pounds, reshaping his habits, and sharpening his communication — and how that discipline turned him into a stronger technician and leader. Jesse and Chris highlight why appearance, preparation, and confidence shape customer trust, and how great technicians go beyond fixing problems to become true client delighters, problem solvers, and revenue producers. If you’re in HVAC, plumbing, or electrical — or you’re a manager training the next generation of techs — this episode shows why discipline and soft skills are the difference between being just a “fixer” and becoming unforgettable. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why discipline is the foundation of technician success How appearance and preparation impact customer trust Why customers buy confidence as much as technical skill The Technician Triangle: client delighter, solver, producer How personal growth creates professional opportunities 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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The 3 Roles Every Service Technician Must Master (And Why Skills Alone Won’t Cut It)
09/24/2025
The 3 Roles Every Service Technician Must Master (And Why Skills Alone Won’t Cut It)
Every service technician learns the trade, but not every tech becomes great. Why? Because technical skills alone won’t cut it. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Jesse Olson (owner of The Happy Outlet) break down the 3 roles that separate great technicians from average ones: Client Delighter: Customers remember the experience more than the repair. Problem Solver: Clear communication and long-term solutions matter as much as technical fixes. Revenue Producer: Stewardship, efficiency, and profitability fuel growth for both the company and the tech. You’ll also learn why practice and preparation matter as much in the trades as they do in pro sports or medicine — and how techs can apply discipline to build lasting careers. If you’re in HVAC, plumbing, or electrical and want to move from “good” to “great,” this episode gives you the roadmap. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Where Profit Slips Away in Home Service Businesses (And How to Fix It)
09/17/2025
Where Profit Slips Away in Home Service Businesses (And How to Fix It)
Most home service owners think about growth in terms of calls booked, revenue, and trucks on the road. But profit often slips away in the small, hidden gaps inside the business. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker break down the areas where money leaks out of HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies — and how leaders can tighten up processes to keep profit in the business. Here’s what you’ll learn: The most common places profit gets lost in service companies Why callbacks and breakdowns in communication eat away at margins How to connect CSRs, techs, and managers so the whole team protects profit Practical systems to reduce waste and strengthen your bottom line Real-world examples from contractors who have turned leaks into growth If you’re growing revenue but not seeing more money in the bank, this episode will help you find the gaps and fix them. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Why a “Simple Fix” Costs $400: Showing Customers the Real Value of Service
09/10/2025
Why a “Simple Fix” Costs $400: Showing Customers the Real Value of Service
Every trade faces it — HVAC, plumbing, electrical: You show up, diagnose the problem, replace a part, and 20 minutes later the system is running again. The invoice? $400. And the customer says: “Why am I paying so much for something that looks so quick and simple?” In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J Dub” Walker unpack one of the most common challenges in the trades: explaining the true cost of service calls. Here’s what you’ll learn: -Why customers confuse time and parts with value -The real cost of rolling a truck — labor, benefits, overhead, marketing, fuel -How to show customers they’re paying for comfort, safety, expertise, and peace of mind -Why diagnosis and communication matter more than the part itself -The “squeaky floor” story — how one nail can be worth $400 when backed by skill and a guarantee If you’ve ever had a customer push back on pricing, this episode will give you the tools and language to defend your value and protect your professionalism. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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How Technicians Build Confidence & Stay in Control of Service Calls
09/03/2025
How Technicians Build Confidence & Stay in Control of Service Calls
Every great service technician knows the 3 C’s: competence, confidence, and control. But how do you actually build them? In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J Dub” Walker break down how technicians can go from just “knowing the work” to leading conversations with customers and closing calls with confidence. Inside this episode: -Why competence always comes first (skills + knowledge = confidence) -The role of personality profiles (High S & High C) in shaping confidence -Why asking for help is growth, not “faking it” -How to handle customer objections without losing control -The secret to translating technical jargon into customer-friendly language -Why questions restore control when conversations go sideways Whether you’re in HVAC, plumbing, or electrical, this episode will help you turn technical competence into customer trust, stronger communication, and more closed calls. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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The 3 C’s Every Service Technician Must Master (Confidence, Competence & Control)
08/27/2025
The 3 C’s Every Service Technician Must Master (Confidence, Competence & Control)
What makes a great service technician? It’s not just tools or technical knowledge—it’s mastering the 3 C’s: Confidence, Competence, and Control. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J Dub” Walker dive deep into how HVAC, plumbing, and electrical technicians can build the skills and mindset that customers trust. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: -Why confidence is contagious and how it builds customer trust -The difference between knowledge, competence, and wisdom in the trades -Why practice and repetition are the keys to mastery -Balancing efficiency, effectiveness, and technology in troubleshooting -How mentorship accelerates growth for young technicians If you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, or wondered how to bridge the gap between knowledge and true competence, this episode will give you the tools to lead every service call with authority. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Why Authority and Scarcity Make Customers Say “Yes”
08/20/2025
Why Authority and Scarcity Make Customers Say “Yes”
Every buying decision is shaped by psychological triggers. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker break down two of the most powerful influence principles (Authority and Scarcity) and show how they apply to every in-home sales call. Here’s what you’ll learn: -Why customers trust authority and how to position yourself as a credible expert -How scarcity drives urgency and action (without manipulation) -Real-world service call examples of authority and scarcity in play -The mindset shifts that make influence feel natural, honest, and human If you want to close more jobs and win trust without lowering your price, this episode will show you how. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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How Trust and Social Proof Close Calls Before Price Matters
08/12/2025
How Trust and Social Proof Close Calls Before Price Matters
Why do customers say “yes” to one tech and “no” to another? It often comes down to two overlooked influence skills: Consensus and Likability. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker break down how people look for social proof before making a decision, and why being liked and trusted can outweigh the cheapest price. Here’s what you’ll learn: -The “safety in numbers” effect that makes buyers feel confident in choosing you -How to localize consensus so customers can relate to others who’ve made the same choice -Why likability builds trust faster than technical knowledge alone -How to avoid using influence tools as manipulation—and earn genuine decisions -Practical scripts and mindset shifts to help you guide customers toward yes If you want to increase your close rate, build credibility, and make buying easy for customers, this episode is a must-listen. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Reciprocity and Consistency Win Jobs Before Price Matters
08/06/2025
Reciprocity and Consistency Win Jobs Before Price Matters
Every buying decision is influenced by more than facts or price. Two psychological principles (Reciprocity and Consistency) play a massive role in how comfortable customers feel saying “yes.” In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker break down these two science-backed influence skills and show you how they apply to every in-home service call: 1) Reciprocity: Why small, genuine gestures make people feel good about returning the favor 2) Consistency: How asking the right questions early makes customers want to stay aligned with what they’ve already said You’ll also learn: -How to create a trust-first atmosphere where customers feel safe making a decision -Real-world service call examples showing reciprocity and consistency in action -Why understanding human behavior makes every conversation smoother, easier, and more natural -This isn’t about manipulation—it’s about communicating in a way that feels honest, helpful, and human. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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6 Psychological Skills Every Tech Needs to Win Trust in the Home
07/30/2025
6 Psychological Skills Every Tech Needs to Win Trust in the Home
Some techs walk into a home and customers instantly feel comfortable. Others can’t get past “let me think about it.” It’s not luck. It’s learnable skills. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Harold James Walker break down 6 psychological skills every service professional needs to earn trust, guide decisions ethically, and close more calls without pressure tactics. You’ll discover: -The six science-backed skills that shape buying decisions -How to use psychology ethically -Ways to build authority and credibility in the first 5 minutes -Real-world stories from thousands of in-home visits showing these skills in action If you’ve ever lost a job because a customer didn’t fully believe in you, this episode shows you how top techs win trust before the close. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Handling Know-It-All Customers Without Getting Defensive
07/16/2025
Handling Know-It-All Customers Without Getting Defensive
These days, customers show up armed with YouTube videos, online forums, and a confidence that can make even seasoned techs bristle. So, what do you do when a customer thinks they know more than you? In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker tackle one of the trickiest moments in the trades: handling customers who challenge your expertise. What's Inside: -Why customers feel so confident (and where they get their info) -How to spot the early signs of a “know-it-all” customer -The worst mistake techs make (and how to avoid it) -Why dismissing a customer’s knowledge kills trust -How to disarm customers gently—without getting defensive -The power of physical evidence to win trust -The real difference between knowledge and experience Because the truth is, it’s not about proving you’re smarter, it’s about building trust, guiding the customer, and protecting the sale. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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How Techs Earn the Right to Tell Customers "That’s a Bad Idea."
07/09/2025
How Techs Earn the Right to Tell Customers "That’s a Bad Idea."
What do you do when your customer insists on a cheap Band-Aid fix instead of the real repair you know they need? In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker dive deep into one of the toughest moments in the trades: telling a customer “That’s a bad idea.” This episode is for every technician, salesperson, or service professional who’s ever struggled with customers rejecting expert recommendations, choosing quick fixes, or balking at bigger repairs or replacements. What's Inside: -Why it’s your professional responsibility to protect customers from bad decisions -How to earn the right to say “That’s a bad idea” without losing trust -Why customers often go for Band-Aid fixes—and how to steer them toward better choices -How to avoid just being “the guy who lists options” and step up as a Professional Expert Authority -Psychological tactics that help customers realize the cost of shortcuts -How to handle objections with empathy, authority, and clarity -The hidden costs of always taking “something rather than nothing” on service calls 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Professional. Expert. Authority. How to Win Trust and Earn More in the Trades
07/02/2025
Professional. Expert. Authority. How to Win Trust and Earn More in the Trades
If customers don’t see you as a professional expert authority, they’re less likely to trust your recommendations or pay what your work is worth. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker dig into why being skilled isn’t enough. Customers judge you on how you show up, how you communicate, and whether you project authority. You’ll learn how to step into the role of a Professional Expert Authority so you earn higher tickets, close more sales, and build a reputation as the trusted advisor customers want in their homes. This isn’t just theory, it’s the practical difference between being seen as “just another contractor” versus the pro customers confidently say yes to. What’s Inside: -Why simply being skilled isn’t enough to win trust -The real definition of a “Professional” in the trades -What makes someone an expert (beyond years on the job) -How authority drives customer decisions and higher sales -The two traps techs fall into: -How to combine professionalism, expertise, and authority to become the go-to trusted advisor -Steps you can take today to elevate your authority on every call 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Why Homeowners Don’t Understand You (And What to Do About It)
06/25/2025
Why Homeowners Don’t Understand You (And What to Do About It)
If customers don’t understand you, it's harder for them to trust you, and even harder for them to buy from you. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker reveal why overexplaining systems, parts, and technical jargon leads to confusion, stalled decisions, and lost trust. You’ll learn how to take complex home service concepts, whether HVAC, plumbing, or electrical, and explain them in a way that actually makes sense to your customer. This isn’t about dumbing things down, it’s about guiding decisions with clarity and confidence in the home. What's Inside: Why tech talk kills clarity How to explain your process in simple, visual terms What to say when the customer “checks out” How emotional clarity leads to better buying decisions A better way to educate without overwhelming 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Why Techs Accidentally Sell the Cheapest Option (And How to Stop)
06/18/2025
Why Techs Accidentally Sell the Cheapest Option (And How to Stop)
When a customer chooses the cheapest option, is it really because of price or because of how it was presented? In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker reveal why customers default to low-price decisions—and how techs unknowingly reinforce that bias. Packed with real-world roleplay and proven frameworks, this episode teaches you how to present pricing with confidence, educate customers without confusion, and protect the value of your premium work. You’ll learn how to: -Present prices top-down to anchor value -Avoid confusing customers with too many options at once -Leverage the psychology of loss aversion and consensus -Build trust while still selling premium -Reframe pricing conversations to highlight long-term value Mentioned in This Episode: → Only 18% of customers actually buy the cheapest option → Why techs often “lead the witness” toward low-cost picks → The importance of slowing down when presenting pricing → Robert Cialdini’s Influence → Real roleplay examples that build confidence in price delivery 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Busy Season Chaos? Stick to the Process or Pay the Price.
06/11/2025
Busy Season Chaos? Stick to the Process or Pay the Price.
In the trades, busy season feels like chaos—calls stack up, the pressure ramps, and the temptation to rush is real. But here’s the truth: cutting corners doesn’t save time—it costs you. In this episode of Windshield Time, Todd Liles and Chris Elmore share why slowing down and sticking to the process is the fastest way to consistency, trust, and long-term wins. If you’re feeling the heat in your business right now, this episode is your reset button. You’ll learn how to: -Stick to full processes—even when you’re slammed -Avoid costly callbacks caused by rushed work -Present all options during peak season to boost value -Build trust between schedulers and techs with better communication -Use scarcity and urgency to increase perceived value Mentioned in This Episode: → Callbacks and the cost of cutting corners → Full option presentations—even during demand surges → Schedule trust: defining emergencies and honoring boundaries → Why speed without clarity breaks your team → The mindset shift that prevents burnout and boosts results 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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How Great Techs Present Findings Without Losing the Customer
06/04/2025
How Great Techs Present Findings Without Losing the Customer
Ever presented your findings… and watched the customer go quiet? In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker unpack what really causes that reaction—and how to prevent it. From the very first question you ask, you’re either setting context or setting a trap. If you want the customer to trust you when it matters most, you’ve got to build contrast early and deliver findings with clarity, confidence, and control. You’ll learn how to: -Ask better questions that build trust and uncover expectations -Use age, maintenance, and filtration to create context -Structure findings as a story—not a list of problems -Separate the “meaning” conversation from the “money” conversation -Keep control of the call while giving customers space to process -Turn presentation anxiety into confidence and clarity Mentioned in this episode: The “bomb blast” effect: why customers shut down The 7-step findings presentation framework How to avoid the “I also found…” death spiral The importance of linking symptoms to causes When to give customers space—and when to stay close Why you shouldn’t present findings with pricing attached 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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What Most Techs Don’t Realize About Price, Profit, and Staying in Business
05/28/2025
What Most Techs Don’t Realize About Price, Profit, and Staying in Business
“Why do we have to charge so much?” If you’ve ever asked that question—or had a customer ask it—this episode is for you. In this candid breakdown, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker unpack what it really costs to run a service call, why pricing isn’t based on greed, and how to explain value when customers don’t understand what they’re paying for. This is the financial literacy episode every tech and salesperson should hear. You’ll learn how to: -Break down fixed costs vs. variable costs in simple terms -Explain why two water heaters are not the same job -Understand what it actually costs to acquire a customer -Protect profit without cutting corners or rushing the job -Use long-term value (like memberships) to stay profitable -Talk to customers—and owners—about price with confidence Mentioned in this episode: The 100 Pennies exercise for understanding margins True cost breakdowns: marketing, overhead, labor, materials Membership math: how repeat visits lower cost per call Why price is based on need, not greed The problem with "just knocking $500 off" FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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How Familiarity Can Kill Trust (And How to Avoid It)
05/21/2025
How Familiarity Can Kill Trust (And How to Avoid It)
Just because you've been there before doesn't mean the process changes. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker break down the common trap techs fall into with returning customers—skipping steps, rushing intros, and assuming too much. You'll learn how to: Because familiarity doesn’t excuse laziness—it demands excellence. -Adapt your intro without losing professionalism or control -Balance familiarity with structure for a better customer experience -Avoid lazy shortcuts that damage repeat trust -Stay consistent—even when the customer knows your name -Ask instead of assume, and elevate repeat visits with small details Mentioned in this episode: PRESS PLAY adaptations for return visits The “ERR” framework: Empathize, Reassure, Redirect The danger of familiarity: where techs often cut corners Customer loyalty stories (and where they break down) Why consistency > one-time excellence Real-world examples from the field—and a cocktail named Lady Hancock 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Disarming Difficult Customers: The 3-Step Framework That Actually Works
05/14/2025
Disarming Difficult Customers: The 3-Step Framework That Actually Works
Not every objection is about price. Sometimes, customers are already frustrated the moment you pull up. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker unpack the invisible minefields techs face—frustrated customers, callbacks, pre-diagnosed opinions, and homeowners who try to control the process. You’ll learn how to: -Navigate awkward customer situations without taking the blame -Use the “ERR” method: Empathize, Reassure, Redirect -Avoid apologizing for things you don’t own -Guide customers back into your process—without a fight -Stay calm, confident, and in control—even on callbacks or late arrivals Mentioned in this episode: The ERR framework: Empathize, Reassure, Redirect “Time, Crime, or Grime” — why customers don’t want you inside The danger of owning problems that aren’t yours How redirecting avoids conflict (and earns trust) Personality profiles and their role in tension Why every conversation is low-level negotiation 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: https://www.servextra.com/objection-handling-playbook-download/ FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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Why Great Salespeople Read People, Not Scripts
05/07/2025
Why Great Salespeople Read People, Not Scripts
The best sales pros don’t just follow a script—they read the person in front of them. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker break down how understanding personality types (like DISC) helps techs adapt faster, build trust, and close more calls without sounding robotic. You’ll hear exactly how to spot a Driver at the door, how a Stable personality might hide their objections, and how to adjust your tone and questions to connect faster with each type. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: https://www.servextra.com/objection-handling-playbook-download/ What You’ll Learn: Identify customer personalities using tone, pace, and body language Match your communication style to D, I, S, and C types Handle objections based on the customer's natural behavior Ask better questions that reveal who you’re dealing with Adjust your energy to connect faster and close with confidence Mentioned in This Episode: → DISC Behavioral Profile: Driver, Influencer, Stable, Compliant → How each personality type responds under pressure → Roleplay examples of matching tone and tempo FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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The Truth Behind Multiple Bids and How to Win Anyway
04/30/2025
The Truth Behind Multiple Bids and How to Win Anyway
Ever been told, “I’m getting a few other bids” or “I want a second opinion”—and didn’t know what to say next? In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker break down how to confidently handle process-driven objections like multiple bids or second opinions. You’ll learn how to avoid getting defensive, build credibility early, and ask the right questions to keep control of the conversation and close the sale without pressure. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: https://www.servextra.com/objection-handling-playbook-download/ What You’ll Learn: Why multiple bids and second opinions are usually about trust, not price How to build credibility early and minimize objections before they come up What to say without sounding pushy or defensive Why rolling over and emailing the bid almost always kills the sale How to LEAP through the objection: Listen, Empathize, Ask Questions, Problem Solve Mentioned in This Episode: → LEAP Objection Handling Framework → The 3-Part Trust Filter: Value, Company, Installation → How to isolate what the customer really wants from a second opinion → Why credibility starts the moment you pull up in your truck FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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How to Handle the Most Emotionally Charged Objection in the Trades
04/23/2025
How to Handle the Most Emotionally Charged Objection in the Trades
Money objections are tough, especially when you hear “I can’t afford it.” In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker dive into one of the most emotional objections techs face in the field. You’ll learn why affordability objections feel so awkward, how to overcome your own money biases, and how to turn a vulnerable moment into a confident path forward. 📥 Download the FREE Objection Handling Playbook — loaded with scripts and strategies to help techs close more calls: https://www.servextra.com/objection-handling-playbook-download/ What You’ll Learn: The fundamental difference between “too expensive” and “can’t afford it” Why affordability is more emotional than other objections How to drop your own money biases before every call What to say before you offer financing The LEAP framework for guiding tough conversations Mentioned in This Episode: → LEAP Framework: Listen, Empathize, Ask Questions, Problem Solve → Smart ways to present financing without offending → Real stories from the field (including one with a hidden Ferrari) FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.
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