Episode 166: Grow Mean & Lean with Mary Jean

It’s no secret that the trades is a male-dominated industry. That’s why it’s always great to bring on strong female leaders like Mary Jean Anderson! Mary Jean is CEO of Anderson Plumbing Heating & Air, a well-respected and top 1% contractor. She’s also served on the Executive Board of Directors at Nexstar, and published her memoir titled Here Comes Cannonball! Reflections on the 40th Anniversary of of Anderson Plumbing, Heating & Air.

From 1MM+ in Debt to 60MM

Mary Jean started out in nursing, and her husband – a new construction plumber – wanted to start a new business. She went from bookkeeper at nights to full time, and had her sights set on residential service and repair. Her story includes going from new construction to residential, having her own business and being over 1MM in debt, adding on heating and air, finding Nexstar and asking for help, and growing Anderson Plumbing, Heating & Air to almost 60MM with double-digit profitability.

Mary Jean has been in the industry for decades, and is excited to share her story with our listeners.

• Setting ego aside to grow
• Asking for help
• Moving out of new construction into service and repair
• Joining Nexstar
• Getting out of over 1MM in debt
• Marketing mix in today’s climate
• Importance of branding
• Dealing with inflation
• Attracting and recruiting talent
• Bringing more women (and men) into the trades
• Anderson Career Builder Institute (ACBI)
• And more!

Set Your Ego Aside and Ask For Help

Like former To The Point guests and incredible women Judaline Cassidy and Charlene Ierna, Mary Jean has carved her path in the trades. One of the biggest things she’s learned in her life is that you have to be willing to ask for help! Our industry can certainly struggle with this, especially when ego and pride get in the way. Whether it’s Nexstar, another best practices group, or a mentor – find something or someone that can help you and direct you. Listen, and leave your ego at the door.

Want to connect with Mary Jean? You can email her at mj@andersonpha.com!