Trade Wins Lesson #1

Start with the lesson that sets the tone for everything else.

Before you dive into marketing, sales, or systems, you need to know who we are, what Trade Wins is built for, and how our community helps trades business owners grow with clarity instead of guesswork.

Lesson 1: Introduction Approx. 14 minutes
The foundation

Why this is the right place to start

  • A full framework, not random tips Better systems, stronger margins, and a clearer plan for where your business is headed.
  • Meet Mitch and David Lesson 1 introduces your mentors and the trades experience they bring to the program.
  • Understand why we built Trade Wins See the purpose behind the program before you move into tactical lessons.
  • Choose your path with clarity Decide whether you are building lean and profitable or scaling into a larger company.

What you get from Lesson 1

0:01
Welcome to Trade Wins A clear overview of what the program is designed to help you build.
1:02
David Hilton’s path HVAC experience, management, ownership, and the one-man shop model.
4:02
Mitch Smedley’s path Building plumbing departments, scaling teams, and leading multi-million dollar operations.
7:50
The Trade Wins model Video lessons, private community, mastermind-style support, and in-person events.
9:36
The TIDES core values Take Responsibility, Integrity, Discipline, Excellence, and Service.
Start here

Why members watch this first

  • See how the program works Save time by understanding Trade Wins before you jump into execution.
  • Set the right expectations Give every lesson after this one more context, clarity, and purpose.
  • Know if it fits your business Decide early whether Trade Wins matches the company you actually want to build.
  • Learn from two proven paths Get context from mentors who have succeeded on very different trades journeys.

Ready to start building smarter?

Lesson 1 gives you the foundation. Membership gives you the full Trade Wins library — plus community, support, and practical lessons on marketing, sales, CRM, price books, follow-up, and more.