Mission Control Podcast

Daniel Cherniske | Roof Leopard | Mission Control Podcast

In this episode of the mission control podcast Mike sits down with Daniel Cherniske, Co-Founder of Roof Leopard, to discuss his journey from teaching prison aquaponics to building a high-growth roofing company in Western New York. Daniel shares how he pivoted from a niche consulting background to the roofing industry, where he and his partner Willie have focused on professionalizing the trade and moving past the "Uncle's roofing" stigma. The conversation dives into Mike's "solutions, not excuses" philosophy, the importance of delegating production to maintain quality, and tactical sales advice—including a role-play on how to secure reviews from every prospect. From scaling standing seam metal roofing to leveraging micro-websites for lead flow, Daniel breaks down the strategies Roof Leopard is using to stay ahead in 2026. In this episode of the mission control podcast Mike sits down with Daniel Cherniske, Co-Founder of Roof Leopard, to discuss his journey from teaching prison aquaponics to building a high-growth roofing company in Western New York. Daniel shares how he pivoted from a niche consulting background to the roofing industry, where he and his partner Willie have focused on professionalizing the trade and moving past the "Uncle's roofing" stigma. The conversation dives into Mike's "solutions, not excuses" philosophy, the importance of delegating production to maintain quality, and tactical sales advice—including a role-play on how to secure reviews from every prospect. From scaling standing seam metal roofing to leveraging micro-websites for lead flow, Daniel breaks down the strategies Roof Leopard is using to stay ahead in 2026. Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 [https://shorturl.at/quCQ5] About Roof Leopard: Founded by construction veterans Willie Jay and Daniel Cherniske, Roof Leopard is a community-focused team dedicated to raising the bar for local roofing. Known for their high standards and "precision-first" approach, they aim to turn what is often a stressful, confusing investment into a transparent and seamless process. By prioritizing 5-star customer service alongside expert craftsmanship, Roof Leopard provides neighbors with an honest, professional experience that makes protecting a home feel remarkably easy. Roof Leopard: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571148012857 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571148012857] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roofleopard/ [https://www.instagram.com/roofleopard/]

David Carroll | Chasing Equanimity | Mission Control Podcast

In this episode of the Mission Control podcast, Mike sits down with David Carroll, founder of DOPE Marketing, to discuss the mental evolution of an entrepreneur. David reflects on his recent trip to Chicago and shares insights on the importance of self-awareness, giving oneself credit for personal growth, and shifting away from a "grinder" mentality toward a more balanced life. The conversation touches on maintaining "equanimity" during business challenges and why leaders should focus on mental fortitude and the original "why" behind their ventures. Ultimately, David highlights that true success is the freedom to prioritize personal values, such as spending time with family, over constant productivity Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 [https://shorturl.at/quCQ5] David Carroll: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.l.carroll.7 [https://www.facebook.com/david.l.carroll.7] Dope Marketing: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DopeMktg [https://www.facebook.com/DopeMktg] Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCwhQCqt3WGZN-skFCnvE2RA [https://www.youtube.com/@UCwhQCqt3WGZN-skFCnvE2RA] Website: https://www.dopemarketing.com/ [https://www.dopemarketing.com/] About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ [https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/] Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ [https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/] Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 [https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/] Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital [https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital] Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

Kyle Weber | On Better Business | Mission Control Podcast

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Mike sits down with Kyle Weber, co-owner of Hometown Roofing Services, to discuss the business's rapid rise since its launch in October 2022. Kyle details his transition from a repair technician to a business owner, highlighting how a reputation for being "customer-facing" and maintaining personal relationships fueled his initial lead flow. The duo explores the significant competitive edge gained by performing attic inspections, a practice that builds homeowner trust and uncovers hidden issues like code violations or misrouted water lines before a project starts. Kyle also outlines his modern growth playbook, which includes active participation in BNI networking groups, utilizing Company Cam for liability protection, and using authentic video content—such as personalized "on the way" videos—to establish immediate authority with clients Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 [https://shorturl.at/quCQ5] Hometown Roofing Services: Website: https://hometownroofingsc.com/ [https://hometownroofingsc.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Hometown-Roofing-Services [https://www.facebook.com/people/Hometown-Roofing-Services] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hometownroofingsc [https://www.instagram.com/hometownroofingsc] Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HometownRoofingSC [https://www.youtube.com/@HometownRoofingSC] Kyle Weber: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyle.weber.90226 [https://www.facebook.com/kyle.weber.90226] About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ [https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/] Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ [https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/] Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 [https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/] Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital [https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital] Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

Bradley Dillon | ROI of Integrity | Mission Control Podcast

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Mike interviews Bradley Dillon of Virginia-based Dillon Roofing, a company celebrating 30 years since its founding by Bradley's father. Bradley details his "earned, not given" journey from a decade-long laborer to partner, emphasizing his efforts to modernize the "old school" business through CRM systems, digital roof measurements, and social media branding. The conversation explores the "gift and curse" of perfectionism, the power of organic word-of-mouth growth, and Bradley's commitment to maintaining high-quality craftsmanship over rapid, impersonal scaling. Ultimately, Bradley shares how intentionality and community trust—exemplified by over 100 five-star reviews—drive a business model focused on lasting relationships rather than just transactions. Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 [https://shorturl.at/quCQ5] Dillon Roofing: Website: https://www.dillon-roofing.com/ [https://www.dillon-roofing.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DillonRoofing [https://www.facebook.com/DillonRoofing] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dillon_roofing [https://www.instagram.com/dillon_roofing] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dillonroofing [https://www.tiktok.com/@dillonroofing] Bradley Dillon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BradleyLewisDillon/ [https://www.facebook.com/BradleyLewisDillon/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradley_dillon/ [https://www.instagram.com/bradley_dillon/] About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ [https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/] Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ [https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/] Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 [https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/] Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital [https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital] Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

Aaron Christy | Winning at Roofing | Mission Control Podcast

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Mike sits down with Aaron Christy to discuss the growth of Indy Roof & Restoration and the specific marketing strategies used to dominate the Indianapolis market. A major focus is placed on leveraging real estate agents as "power partners" to generate high-quality leads with a $0 cost per acquisition. Aaron also breaks down his Google review hacks, specifically how to secure five-star reviews from every inspection, even when no damage is found, to build massive online authority. The duo further explores modern sales approaches, emphasizing character-driven hiring to avoid "sleazy" tactics and ensuring long-term brand trust Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 [https://shorturl.at/quCQ5] Links Mentioned in Episode: Check out Sharky's: https://www.facebook.com/SharkysonBrookside [https://www.facebook.com/SharkysonBrookside/] Indy Roof & Restoration: Website: https://indyroofandrestoration.com/ [https://indyroofandrestoration.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Indyroofandrestoration [https://www.facebook.com/Indyroofandrestoration] X: https://x.com/RoofIndy [https://x.com/RoofIndy] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@indyroofandrestoration [https://www.youtube.com/@indyroofandrestoration] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indyroofandrestoration/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/indyroofandrestoration/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indyroofandrestoration [https://www.instagram.com/indyroofandrestoration] Aaron Christy: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.christy.79 [https://www.facebook.com/aaron.christy.79] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronchristy/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronchristy/] About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ [https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/] Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ [https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/] Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 [https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/] Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ [https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital [https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital] Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.