1 Tough Day Podcast

How AI Is Changing Home Service Sales | Zachary Dearing of Mantel

In this episode of the One Tough Day Podcast, we sit down with Zachary “Zac” Dearing, Co-Founder and CEO of Mantel, an AI-powered sales platform built specifically for the home services industry. Zachary’s background includes MIT, Harvard Law, Amazon, and McKinsey, but his current mission is focused on something much more practical: helping contractors sell better, communicate better, and close more deals in an industry that touches millions of homeowners every year. We talk about what it takes to build a startup, why home services is such a massive opportunity, how AI can actually help contractors instead of just becoming another buzzword, and what Zachary has learned from working closely with the people on the front lines of HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and other trades. This conversation is packed with insight for business owners, contractors, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in where technology and home services are headed next. If you enjoy the episode, make sure to subscribe on YouTube, follow the show on Spotify, and listen on Apple Podcasts. It really helps us keep growing the show and bringing on great guests.

1 Tough Day Podcast | Episode 8: CD Mayhew — Perform Better by Taking Control of Your Health

What if improving your health was the key to leveling up everything else in your life? In this episode of the 1 Tough Day Podcast, we sit down with fitness and performance coach CD Mayhew to break down how taking control of your health can directly impact your success in business, relationships, and everyday life. From simple habits to real-world strategies, CD shares practical ways to stay on track even with a busy schedule. Whether you're an entrepreneur, professional, or just someone trying to get more out of life, this episode is packed with insights you can actually apply. If you've ever felt like you don’t have the time or energy to focus on your health… this one’s for you.

1 Tough Day Podcast | Episode 7: Pete Battista

Steve sits down with mentor and leadership legend Pete Battista to talk about servant leadership, building winning cultures, feedback, family, and the lessons tough days teach us. This one is loaded with practical wisdom and unforgettable Pete-isms.

1 Tough Day Podcast | Episode 6: Joe Rosen

In Episode 6 of the 1 Tough Day Podcast, we sit down with Joe Rosen — corporate M&A attorney, sports agent, and trusted advisor on high-stakes deals worth tens of millions of dollars. Joe’s career spans two worlds: representing athletes at the highest level and negotiating complex business acquisitions. But what truly sets him apart isn’t just his skill — it’s how he builds relationships. In this episode, we dive into: • Why relationships are the ultimate competitive advantage • How to manage multiple high-level roles and responsibilities • The psychology of negotiation and leverage • What separates good leaders from great ones • The importance of communication in business and life Joe also shares powerful “tough day” stories — from struggling to build his business early on… to losing a top client after doing everything right. If you want to understand how to win in business, build trust, and navigate high-pressure situations — this episode is a must-listen.

1 Tough Day Podcast | Episode 5: Jerry Rollins

In Episode 5 of the 1 Tough Day Podcast, we sit down with Jerry Rollins — a leader known for building strong teams, driving performance, and creating a culture that wins. Jerry’s journey is rooted in leadership, accountability, and pushing people to perform at their highest level. Whether it’s building organizations, leading under pressure, or developing talent, his perspective is centered around one thing: winning the right way.