• Part 2 - Beyond the Hype: How AI Is Actually Helping Businesses Grow with Kathy Slowinski (Part 2)
    May 13 2026

    In this two-part episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, we talk to Kathy Slowinski about her journey from family manufacturing roots to leading AI-driven business transformations. Discover practical insights on implementing AI in small and large organizations, managing drift, and fostering innovation.

    Key Takeaways

    • Where should usersstart with AI tools
    • How should leadersbring AI to their companies
    • How to form AIpolicies


    Connect with Our Guest

    Kathy Slowinski on ⁠LinkedIn⁠

    ⁠The AI Boss⁠

    ⁠Trilogy⁠

    Connect with Us

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism⁠

    Episode Sponsors

    ⁠⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

    ⁠DC Marketing Group⁠

    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, shareand subscribe!

    Show More Show Less
    26 mins
  • Part 1 - Beyond the Hype: How AI Is Actually Helping Businesses Grow with Kathy Slowinski
    May 13 2026

    In this two-part episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, we talk to Kathy Slowinski about her journey from family manufacturing roots to leading AI-driven business transformations. Discover practical insights on implementing AI in small and large organizations, managing drift, and fostering innovation.

    Key Takeaways

    • The value of hosting a AI Hackathon
    • How to use agents to do admin work
    • Using AI to handle contract renewals


    Connect with Our Guest

    Kathy Slowinski on LinkedIn

    The AI Boss

    Trilogy

    Connect with Us

    ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

    Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

    Episode Sponsors

    ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

    DC Marketing Group

    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, shareand subscribe!

    Show More Show Less
    32 mins
  • No Layoffs Since 1954: The Employee-First Culture of The Wooster Brush Company
    Apr 14 2026

    In this episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, we talk to Ben Maibach and Michael Stephens from the Wooster Brush Company, discussing the company's rich history, employee-centric culture, and innovative products. They explore how Wooster Brush maintains its manufacturing in the USA, the importance of community engagement, and the balance between profitability and employee care. The conversation also touches on future trends in the painting industry and the leadership principles that guide the company.

    Key Takeaways

    · Wooster Brush has been in operation for 175 years, emphasizing quality and community.

    · The company employs around 600 people, primarily from the local area in Wooster, Ohio.

    · The company has not laid off any employees since 1954, showcasing job security.

    · Wooster Brush focuses on long-term employee relationships and community involvement.

    · Product innovation is driven by feedback from contractors and end-users.

    · Labor savings are achieved through efficient product design and quality tools.

    · The majority of Wooster Brush products are manufactured in the USA.

    · Automation and robotics are used to enhance efficiency in manufacturing.


    Connect with Our Guests

    Ben Maibach on LinkedIn

    Michael Stephens on LinkedIn

    ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

    Connect with Us

    ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

    Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

    Episode Sponsors

    ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

    DC Marketing Group

    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, share and subscribe!

    Show More Show Less
    41 mins
  • The Black Belt Mindset: What Jiu-Jitsu Teaches About Leadership and Resilience with Luke Rinehart
    Mar 9 2026

    ABOUT

    In this episode, David and Aaron talk to Luke Reinhart about `the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, exploring its origins, benefits, and the personal journey of Luke as a martial artist and business owner. They discuss how Jiu-Jitsu can empower individuals, particularly women, and how the discipline learned on the mat translates into valuable skills in business. Luke shares insights on building a successful martial arts academy, the importance of faith in personal growth, and the parallels between martial arts and entrepreneurship.

    Takeaways

    • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu originated from mixed martial arts and gained popularity through the UFC.
    • Luke started martial arts at five years old, influenced by his father's teachings.
    • Consistency and intentionality are key to success in both Jiu-Jitsu and business.
    • Failure is a necessary part of the learning process in Jiu-Jitsu and business.
    • Building a strong curriculum and systems is essential for running a successful martial arts academy.
    • Conflict in Jiu-Jitsu mirrors challenges in life and business, providing growth opportunities.
    • Hiring individuals with a martial arts background can bring discipline and resilience to a business.

    CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST

    Luke Rinehart

    CONNECT WITH US

    ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

    Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

    EPISODE SPONSORS

    ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

    DC Marketing Group

    If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • Where Smart Commercial Painters Are Focusing Next — Insights from Sherwin-Williams
    Feb 5 2026

    ABOUT

    In this conversation, Aaron, Julie Zamski, and Paul Trautmann discuss the pivotal role of Sherwin-Williams in the commercial painting industry, the current market trends, and the opportunities available for contractors. They discuss various sectors such as water and power, public works, and the importance of business development for smaller contractors. The discussion also covers challenges and opportunities in floor and roof coatings, the significance of networking and trade shows, and predictions for growth in various sectors including healthcare and hospitality. The conversation concludes with insights on upcoming opportunities related to the Olympics and stadium projects.

    Key Takeaways

    • 50% of projects in the commercial sector are renovations.
    • Data centers are a major growth driver for the future.
    • Understanding product applications is crucial for contractors.
    • Networking at trade shows is essential for business growth.
    • The flooring business presents significant opportunities.
    • Roof coatings can be a viable entry point for contractors.
    • Education and training are vital for entering new markets.
    • The upcoming Olympics will create new investment opportunities.

    CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST

    Julie Zamski

    Paul Trautmann

    Sherwin-Williams

    CONNECT WITH US

    ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

    Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

    EPISODE SPONSORS

    ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

    DC Marketing Group

    If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

    Show More Show Less
    42 mins
  • How AI is Transforming the SEO World with Aaron Cote
    Jan 9 2026

    SUMMARY

    In this conversation, David and Aaron talk to Aaron Cote about the intersection of AI and SEO, discussing how AI is transforming digital marketing strategies, particularly for commercial painting companies. They delve into the importance of authenticity in content creation, the role of Google Business Profile, and best practices for leveraging AI tools effectively. The discussion emphasizes the need for a learning mindset in SEO and the significance of quality over quantity in content and reviews.

    Key Takeaways

    • AI has significantly changed the landscape of SEO and content creation.
    • Commercial painting companies can benefit from understanding their audience's problems.
    • Authenticity in content is crucial for SEO success.
    • Google Business Profile enhances credibility and trust for businesses.
    • Quality of reviews is more important than quantity in today's market.
    • AI can assist in content creation but should not replace human touch.

    CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST

    avisualglitch.com

    CONNECT WITH US

    ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

    Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

    EPISODE SPONSORS

    ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

    DC Marketing Group

    If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • A Special Episode with Co-host David Chism
    Nov 17 2025

    ABOUT

    In this episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, host Aaron turns the mic and interviews co-host David Chism, a fifth-generation painter and marketing expert. They discuss David's journey from San Diego to Maryland, the influence of faith on his business practices, and the evolution of marketing strategies in the painting industry. David shares success stories from his marketing firm, the impact of AI on marketing, and resources for contractors to enhance their marketing knowledge. The conversation concludes with insights into the growth of Chism Brothers Painting from retail to commercial painting.

    CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTS

    ⁠DC Marketing Group⁠

    CONNECT WITH US

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

    EPISODE SPONSORS

    ⁠⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

    ⁠DC Marketing Group⁠

    If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • Developing Sales Teams That Know How to Hunt and Close
    Oct 23 2025

    ABOUT

    In this episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, host David Chism welcomes Mike Green, a seasoned sales professional with a unique journey from college basketball to the commercial painting industry. Mike shares his story of transitioning from a potential career in professional sports to a successful role in sales and business development. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of self-generating leads, the importance of maintaining a consistent prospecting routine, and the value of building a strong referral network. Mike emphasizes the significance of having a structured sales process and the impact it can have on closing rates and overall business success.

    Throughout the conversation, Mike and David explore the dynamics of sales roles in the painting industry, highlighting the benefits of a hybrid model where sales reps are trained in both business development and estimating. They discuss the importance of hiring individuals with a competitive spirit and a proven track record, regardless of their prior experience in the trades. Mike shares insights on how to motivate sales teams to take initiative and generate their own leads, especially during slower seasons.

    The episode also touches on Mike's recent transition to the roofing industry, where he applies his sales expertise to train and lead a team at Ironhead Roofing. He reflects on the similarities between the two industries and the importance of having a system in place to ensure success.

    CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTS

    Ironhead Roofing

    mike@ironheadroofing.com

    CONNECT WITH US

    ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

    Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

    EPISODE SPONSORS

    ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

    DC Marketing Group

    If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

    Show More Show Less
    45 mins