Team Dynamics And The Path To Professional Excellence Behind The Toolbelt podcast

1:00:12

Send us a text Behind the Tool Belt returns to its roots with an inside look at leadership development and relationship building through a conversation with TC Backer sales leader Ben Catlin. • Ben shares his journey from Michigan to Pennsylvania, including his early influences in music and sports • Family connections played a key role in shaping Ben's character and work ethic • Breaking into sales happened gradually through college experiences and car sales • The transition from car sales to construction came from prioritizing family time • Leadership capital refers to the trust bank built through consistent behavior and communication • Effective leadership empowers team members to think for themselves rather than following directives • Creating relationships across departments breaks down communication barriers • TC Backer differentiates itself through customer-focused approaches rather than one-size-fits-all solutions • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) help maintain consistent quality even in challenging situations • Continuous learning and staying open to new perspectives drives company growth To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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Brick By Brick Hot Shot: The Brutal Truth About Winners' Mindsets vs. Losers' Excuses 2:25

8 days ago2:25

2:25

Send us a text Life is too short to waste time with regret, shame, and guilt that keep us from taking action. The difference between a winner's and loser's mentality lies in taking responsibility versus making excuses for why things can't be done. • Winners understand that goals sometimes require intense dedication and hard work • Living in the past and making excuses like being too old or having no time keeps us stuck • Instead of using tragedy as an excuse, use it as inspiration to carry on someone's legacy • When someone you love passes, fulfill their dreams and aspirations for them • Everyone deserves a second chance to transform their life • The time to act is always now, not someday in the future Get off the couch and do something with your life today. Stop waiting for the perfect moment and start building the life you want right now. To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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The Evolution of Entrepreneurial Purpose 46:13

13 days ago46:13

46:13

Send us a text Ty reflects on his 17-year entrepreneurial journey and shares profound insights about the evolution from survival-mode business operator to purpose-driven leader. His candid examination of what drives entrepreneurs reveals how serving others becomes the ultimate secret to sustainable success. • Four phases of the entrepreneurial journey: survival, status, freedom, and purpose • The trap of getting stuck in survival mode when first starting a business • Moving beyond status-seeking behaviors like trying to impress others • Finding healthy fears versus unhealthy fears that hold you back • Recognizing that what got you here won't keep you here as your business grows • The counterintuitive principle that giving is most powerful when you don't have enough • Creating legacy through community involvement and charitable initiatives • Developing leadership skills by delegating effectively and helping others grow • Building organizations where you don't need to take all the credit • Learning to rebound from mistakes rather than being defined by them • The importance of surrounding yourself with people who elevate your thinking If you think somebody out there could gain something from this episode, please share it with them. Until then, have a good week and we'll see you next week. To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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Strength Beyond Muscles: Rachell Smith on Fitness Transformation 57:06

20 days ago57:06

57:06

Send us a text Rachell Smith shares her journey from dealing with anorexia to becoming a personal trainer who helps others transform their relationship with fitness and nutrition through sustainable lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes. • Balancing work as both a licensed vet technician and personal trainer • Overcoming misconceptions about fitness that lead to disordered eating • Understanding that proper nutrition requires adequate calories from proteins, carbs, and healthy fats • Focusing on longevity rather than just aesthetic results • Building muscle mass to prevent age-related decline and maintain quality of life • Using holistic approaches including supplements like creatine to address health issues • Fighting inflammation through nutrition and practices like cold plunges • Recognizing the connection between gut health and overall wellbeing • Creating lasting habits through consistency rather than motivation • Surrounding yourself with supportive people who encourage healthy choices If you're ready to start your fitness journey, reach out to Rachell Smith at RaeSmithFitness.com or find her on social media with the same name. To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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Brick by Brick: When Your Team Believes, Your Brand Achieves 2:56

22 days ago2:56

2:56

Send us a text Effective leadership and strong company culture form the essential foundation for building a successful, enduring brand that resonates both within your organization and throughout the marketplace. • Leadership requires specific attributes: inspiring trust, communicating vision, making difficult decisions, and mastering delegation • Holding onto responsibilities too long rather than delegating can significantly hinder business growth • Great leaders function as crisis managers and counselors without having a standard playbook • Brand awareness starts internally with a team that believes in themselves and the company mission • Nothing is more rewarding than seeing team members proudly wear company branding in their personal lives • Creating a contagious company culture that spreads from internal teams outward is the key to authentic brand presence Through leadership, you'll learn to utilize your brand, create an omnipresence, stand the test of time, and take your business to the next level. To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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The Human Side of Business Growth 57:43

26 days ago57:43

57:43

Send us a text Marketing expert David Bruno discusses how building authentic relationships creates sustainable business growth through strategic networking, community engagement, and focusing on customer needs before sales goals. • David Bruno has hosted "Business Professionals of Harrisburg and Central PA" networking events for 9 years, growing to 7,000+ members • Companies can spread marketing efforts too thin across platforms—focus on relationship-building first • Viewer fatigue is real—mix business content with personal stories and community engagement • Building company culture through team recognition and charitable activities creates deeper engagement • Most businesses fail within 10 years, but strong relationships help companies survive economic downturns • Cold calling and traditional marketing still work when paired with genuine customer understanding • AI is advancing rapidly and remains underutilized in business—don't be afraid to incorporate it • When starting a business from zero, focus on organic marketing through networking before paid opportunities Find David Bruno on LinkedIn or email him at dbruno@abc27.com, or call/text him at 949-742-2422. To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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What Will You Bring to the Table Today? 7:13

29 days ago7:13

7:13

Send us a text In this Epsiode of Brick by Brick, I explore the four levels of motivation that drive entrepreneurs: survival, status, freedom, and purpose. My journey began with resentment that fueled early growth but nearly destroyed everything until I realized my true mission is positively impacting others' lives. • Business began from resentment which became a survival mechanism to support family and financial obligations • Transitioned to status-seeking, pretending to be bigger than we were to impress others • Many entrepreneurs get stuck in the freedom stage, battling guilt even when successful • Purpose is the highest level—focusing on what I can bring to the table instead of what I can take • True success comes when your positive mission influences others and elevates their thinking • Money becomes a tool for impact rather than the ultimate goal • Making amends quickly when wrong is crucial for personal and professional growth If you're an entrepreneur struggling to find meaning beyond the daily grind, get clear on your purpose. The challenges we face can't just be about money—they must connect to something deeper. To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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We Get To Do This: Embracing Life's Temporary Moments 29:37

29 days ago29:37

29:37

Send us a text Our host reflects on maintaining routine and emotional resilience while traveling for business, sharing practical strategies for staying grounded despite disruptions to normal patterns. Through personal examples from a recent trip, we explore how maintaining consistency in workouts, morning routines, and mindset helps manage stress and maintain productivity away from home. • Working out while traveling to maintain physical routine and clear the mind • Creating duplicate toiletry kits and pre-packed travel bags to reduce friction • Taking cold showers (even on the road) for mental clarity and inflammation reduction • Staying at familiar hotels and restaurants to create a sense of normalcy • Managing emotional responses when things go wrong without ruining everyone's day • Viewing high expectations from clients as opportunities to set standards rather than as problems • Creating SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) to document processes as organizations grow • Reframing challenges with "Why is this happening for me?" instead of "to me" • Recognizing that both good and bad days are temporary with valuable lessons in each If you haven't wished Janna a happy birthday yet, please reach out and make her day special! To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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Navigating Tough Decisions: The Emotional Side of Leadership 5:35

5 weeks ago5:35

5:35

Send us a text Leadership demands more than making easy choices — it requires the courage to make decisions that might initially hurt those we care about most. In this candid Brick by Brick episode, Ty Cobb Backer explores the emotional terrain leaders face when change collides with human emotions. Ty explains how real leadership recognizes that resistance to change often masks deeper grief — grief for professional identities, relationships, and the familiar. By embracing transparency and empathy, leaders can guide their teams through transition while maintaining momentum. Ty shares his personal insights, including the hard lessons about the cost of delaying tough conversations out of fear of being disliked. He reminds us that true leadership isn't about avoiding discomfort but about building environments where knowledge and growth flow in all directions. Leadership is not about perfection — it's about continuous self-improvement that ripples through your team and organization. Brick by brick, this is how strong leadership legacies are built. To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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Behind Every Business: The Untold Stories of Entrepreneurship 57:37

6 weeks ago57:37

57:37

Send us a text Leadership isn't just about steering a business toward profits, but creating ripples that extend beyond your immediate sphere of influence. Ty and Chris Markey explore how what they call "the ripple effect" can transform businesses, relationships, and communities. • The ripple effect in business touches more lives than we realize - from vendors to employees to clients • True leadership is actually "servantship" - putting others' needs before your own even during challenging periods • Leading effectively requires different approaches as your business matures and evolves • Giving clear descriptions and context helps team members understand expectations better • Empowering team members means involving them in decisions and valuing their input • Healthy controversy and accountability are vital for team growth • Leadership involves balance - being empathetic while maintaining standards • Being intentional with connections creates deeper relationships and understanding • Reaching out with simple messages can have profound impact on people going through challenges Join us next week for a special road episode as Ty and Vick travel to their Greenville location! To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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Beyond Words: Discovering the Power of Silence 45:32

7 weeks ago45:32

45:32

Send us a text Host Ty Cobb-Backer welcomes his close friend Eric Oberembt to discuss Eric's newly published book "Shut The F*ck Up and Listen More" and the powerful philosophy of connection it contains. • Eric shares that while this is technically his third book, it's his first deeply personal work incorporating his own stories and perspectives • The book focuses on the TEAM method: Trust, Empathy, Authenticity, and Meaning as the foundation for true connection • Eric explains he wrote the book for "me 15 years ago" – for anyone who feels disconnected and wants to build better relationships • The book emphasizes doing what you say you'll do as a core principle of integrity and trustworthiness • Eric discusses how he incorporated lessons from his recovery journey into business principles without making it an "AA book" • The most rewarding part of writing was sharing stories about his grandfather who profoundly shaped his life • Eric believes our modern failure to listen more than we talk has damaged our ability to connect with others • The book teaches that real growth happens when we stop talking and truly listen without formulating responses • Eric urges readers to practice curiosity instead of judgment when encountering different belief systems Get "Shut The F*ck Up and Listen More" on Amazon in Kindle, softcover, or hardcover editions. To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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Mental Reset: The Power of Positive Mindset 46:29

8 weeks ago46:29

46:29

Send us a text Ty Cobb-Backer shares his recent journey through a challenging mental "winter" season and how he's emerging with renewed clarity and purpose. • Mindset impacts everything from physical health to decision-making ability • The snowball effect of negativity happens gradually, not overnight • Physical pain can be directly connected to mental stress • Walking outdoors for 20+ minutes creates a natural state of euphoria • Creating a "decide list" rather than just a to-do list helps combat decision fatigue • Helping others is one of the most effective ways to escape self-focused negative thinking • Three powerful questions to guide decision-making: Will it bring joy now and later? Will it fulfill me? What impact will it have? • Understanding when you make your best decisions leads to better timing of important choices • Not making a decision is still making a decision Join us next week as we explore the high cost of not letting go soon enough. If you know someone who might benefit from these conversations or would make a great guest, please reach out to us at TC Backer. Lead Scout: Built for Canvassers Lead Scout helps roofing and home service pros turn neighborhoods into opportunities. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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From Cars to Roofs: The Unexpected Connection Between Industries 1:11:06

9 weeks ago1:11:06

1:11:06

Send us a text Ty Cobb-Backer sits down with Woody Casey, owner of AJ's Dent, for a candid conversation about entrepreneurship, building trust, and creating industry connections that transcend traditional boundaries. • Woody shares his journey from college graduate to paintless dent repair business owner • How a chance invitation to a roofing convention created unexpected industry connections • The surprising parallels between the roofing and automotive repair industries • Building a referral system between roofing companies and dent repair that creates transparency • Overcoming trust issues to empower team members and delegate effectively • The entrepreneurial mind described as a "merry-go-round" with multiple ideas spinning simultaneously • Finding solutions by stepping away from problems rather than forcing answers • Redefining success beyond financial metrics to include family presence and personal growth • Learning to give clear direction while still empowering team members • The importance of vulnerability and humility in leadership • How struggles and challenges prepare us for future opportunities to help others If you found value in today's episode, share it with someone in your crew and subscribe for more interviews with leaders in our trade. To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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From Selling Shingles to Building Systems: One Man's Journey to Scale Roofing Companies 1:02:56

10 weeks ago1:02:56

1:02:56

Send us a text What does it really take to scale a roofing business beyond the daily grind? Brad Akers joins Ty Cobb-Backer for a refreshingly honest conversation about the entrepreneurial journey—not just the tactics and strategies, but the emotional and mental challenges that define success. Brad shares his unexpected path from selling shingles at SRS Distribution to helping roofing companies reach eight figures, revealing how his desire to genuinely help contractors grow led him to digital marketing and eventually launching his own business. Rather than focusing solely on business metrics, this conversation dives deep into the psychological aspects of entrepreneurship that rarely get discussed in industry circles. "Entrepreneurship's hard. It goes up and down," Brad explains, describing his biggest lesson as understanding these inevitable cycles and learning to manage emotions through them. Both men candidly discuss their struggles with being present at home after intense workdays, with Ty noting, "When daddy gets home, he sets the tone," highlighting the ripple effects our work stress can have on family life. The discussion extends beyond business to explore the profound impact of mentorship, with Brad crediting his father's humility and service-oriented approach as foundational to his own leadership style. He also describes how working with mindfulness coaches has transformed his ability to navigate challenging business situations without falling into emotional reactivity. Whether you're already running a successful contracting business or dreaming of starting your own, this episode offers something valuable—permission to struggle, wisdom for growing through challenges, and perspective on what truly matters in the entrepreneurial journey. As Brad reminds us, "Try to be kind to yourself... everyone's just figuring it out, whether they've been doing it for 10 years or 50 years." Subscribe now and join the conversation about what happens behind the tool belt—where the real work of leadership happens. To watch or listen to your favorite episodes of Behind The ToolBelt, Brick By Brick plus much more content, go to our YouTube Channel and subscribe. We are streaming on all major Podcast Platforms https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id171271486 1 https://open.spotify.com/show/3sNj9u1DaJTSqk88ZWkBns?si=94538ab990df48cf https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-behind-the-toolbelt-271027110/ You can find us on Facebook and instagram https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWoTMarRV_h-gKZErp7KQAw/ https://www.instagram.com/tcbacker/ https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=991937949647176&set=a.409382311236079&__tn__=%3C…

Behind the Toolbelt

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Your Legacy Is Built Through Every Interaction You Make Today 35:33

11 weeks ago35:33