Coach’s Corner

Coach’s Corner The Challenge of 2020— One No One Could Have Predicted

As I write this article, April 1, 2020. My most fervent hope is that as you read this, the curve of the COVID-19 will have begun to flatten and that we have not lost family members, friends or colleagues during the crisis that is sweeping our world, our country and our communities. It seemed so long ago, but it was only a few short weeks ago that our worlds started turning upside down. Who would have known in early March that we would face these challenges as they crept to our towns and areas? Who could have foreseen that our lives would be disrupted so? Who could have anticipated that we would be faced with the question of essential or non-essential business? Or that our focus of safety would have changed from ladder safety, roof safety, and fall protection to safety steps that included social distancing, sanitation, and the wearing of masks and gloves to protect our bodies and those we may come into close contact with. No one assumed that the fear that could come from a simple handshake or a hug from a friend would be in our lives. I think one of the best quotes for the present situation from Zig Ziglar is likely “Expect The Best, Prepare For The Worst, Maximize What Comes.” As I have shared with many, in a time such as this that challenges us to our very being, the following should be the order of importance for each of us as business owners and leaders:

#1 Follow The Best Course Of Action For You And Your Family. #2 Follow The Best Course Of Action For Your Business. #3 Follow The Best Course Of Action For Your Employees. #4 Follow The Best Course Of Action For Your Customers. #5 Follow The Best Course Of Action For Your Community.

If we look over the past month, our discussions have drastically changed on social forums, and it was only a few weeks ago that our discussions were about the industry, methods, ideas, and concepts. Now our discussions are about SBA loans, paycheck protection, and disaster loans. Many of the workers in our industry have been displaced from their jobs. Now we are keyed into the role of being a survivalist, not only of financial downfall but also of the fear of a disease that is building nationwide as I write this article. This will be a time of learning, as we have never learned before. Likely, we will have a new appreciation of our grandparents and great-grandparents that lived through the great depression. This tuition that we pay will be costly, but what we must look for the way we will come out of this. Life and how we do business will change going forward. Prior to this, the economists and financial gurus commonly suggested that each business builds a reserve fund of 6 months for times such as this. I was advised earlier this week that economists are now

advising a cushion of 12 to 18 months in the event of a reoccurrence. Building this buffer will take time and commitment. But this is likely a lesson that many are learning now. What are the other lessons we can learn from this time in our lives? Another would be the importance of turning our everyday waste into profit dollars. This could well be the source of those dollars to place into the reserve account to build it to the level that will enable us to survive a

reoccurrence. One of the things that each business will be doing at the end of this crisis is likely to be entering a time of reinvention, and this may even be a reboot of the business operation. If you have learned the hard lessons of this period hopefully you have already assembled the priority items to start within your own business reinvention and rebooting. One of the most important things is to learn our lessons well, and not have a shortterm memory. Look at the reinvention that you can do using the lessons that are bring provided daily. One of the things we must do is prepare for what the “new normal” will be for us and for others. As we move through this, we will likely see a change in our culture and our society. And for one to succeed as we move into this, we have to continue our businesses, our families, and our lives. The world has undergone significant challenges that will reflect change due to the pain we have each suffered. It is up to you how you will benefit as these changes shape the business landscape in the future. I yearn to see a Winston Churchill or a Franklin. D Roosevelt speak to our country at these times to provide that leadership we each need. As leadership is what will light the fire in people’s hearts and minds to maneuver through the chaos we are presented with each and every day.

It is certain that our challenges arise each day just as the sun rises each day. But I also want to express a debt of gratitude to two people leading the industry in the most immaculate way possible through these times. One is Jasper Drengler, the President of the NCSG. This young man who I have known for many years has stepped up to the plate. Jasper, my hat is off to you. Another is John Meredith; this is a guy who has worked tirelessly to disiminate the information many in the industry need. Many will come through this period of crisis better and more prepared for the future. This is my hope, and my best and the best of every member of my team goes out to each one of you for the work you do today and into the future.

About the Author: Jerry Isenhour is an industry consultant, educator, and coach who authors a monthly article in Sweeping as a service to the industry. A Past President of NCSG & CSIA, along with serving in several volunteer industry positions over his career. For more information about Jerry and how his team can assist you individually and your business in your quest for success and your ascent to the next level, take a look at his web site www. cvcsuccessgroup.com He can be contacted at jerry@ cvcsuccessgroup.com or by phone at (704) 425-0217. You can also obtain great business tips from his Facebook page CVC Coaching and YouTube channel CVC Coaching.

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Remembering Past Conventions

“Sooty Bob” Daniels Copperfield Chimney Supply Scranton, Pennsylvania

There I found myself. I was in a dank, chilly, indoor Chicago parking garage that had been converted into the Guild’s first ever…wait for it…TRADE SHOW. Tables were set up and a few vendors were displaying stuff to the sweeps in attendance. The sweeping trade at that time was not just a little wet behind the ears in America. It was soaking wet. All over. I had been sweeping since 1977, but Copperfield as a wholesale supplier was only months old and largely still a dream. At the trade show was an assortment of individuals selling various tools of the trade, some of them revolutionary for the day…like rattan sweeping rods. Anyone remember those? And here was this one guy running an endless loop of his recent appearance on NBC’s Tomorrow Show with Tom Snyder (Snyder was soon replaced by David Letterman). And that same guy had in his booth a few things a sweep could sell when they visited a homeowner. Revolutionary stuff (sarcasm intended) like chimney caps and dampers. Now, at that time, to some, the concept of daring to sell something, anything, while on a sweep job was controversial, even sacrilegious. “Selling things is not ‘pure sweeping’” some snorted as they walked by my booth. But the thing is, we all were there. And we loved each other. It was us against the world. It was us against dirty chimneys. And that made us brothers and sisters. There were maybe 200 of us. We had no clue how to run a trade organization. But we were there. The fact that none of us had any idea of what our Guild should look like… that didn’t matter… we were there! And we loved each other. Sure, we squabbled now and then, but no matter, we loved each other, and still do. Over time (decades really) emerged Guild leadership, education, the exchange of ideas, certification and finally a headquarters. And that is what we have today. A great guild that is now a model for all trades. I am happy that I was along for the ride, both then and now.

Blume The Merry Sweep Greenville, South Carolina

I’ve been a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild for, well to be honest I can’t really remember. I started sweeping in 1983, and my wife made me become a member of NCSG and the South Carolina Chimney Sweep Guild. I had bought this business from Bob Driggers, who invented the first wood stove insert puller. I was trained for about two days by fellow sweep Jon Stevenson, who some of you older sweeps will remember did Burning Issues Press for a while. At my first South Carolina Chimney Sweep Guild meeting I learned two things: the Guild seemed kind of like a clique and there was some chimney stuff I did not know. Imagine that? I decided after that meeting. The best way to deal with a clique is to just join and the best way to know what you don’t know is to find out. I really don’t know when I attended my first National Convention or even where it was. I’m thinking possibly Washington D.C. I’m pretty sure when I attended the Baltimore Convention as one of the ‘Spartanburg Seven’ it was not my first one. ‘Spartanburg Seven’ you say? What was that? Well it seems at that time the current leaders of NCSG were attempting to implement some protocols and requirements that some other sweeps did not think were appropriate, and I was asked to come to a meeting at the Holiday Inn in Spartanburg. The invitation was from a soft spoken, long haired chimney sweep from Charlotte, NC by the name of Jerry Isenhour. I know that description is hard to visualize, but it’s true. The only other thing I can remember from all that is at the Convention in Baltimore I think I got about 5 hours sleep over that many days I remember the cigarette smoke being so think in the hotel room we were having our strategy meeting in that Jerry Neal sat out in the hall and I laid on the floor just barely under the haze. What became of all that political intrigue? I don’t have a clue. I was asked to write about my experiences and views on Conventions past. I can’t image a sweep not going. I have learned so much over the years at convention; it can’t be measured or put into words. Keep in mind for the first 20 years of my sweep life, like most of the sweeps, I went to every seminar and class I could and sucked up as much information as possible. Most of the sweeps I know still do this. For some reason about 15 or more years ago I stopped going to most of the seminars at the convention. I know that sounds

counterproductive and I know there is some sweep knowledge I am behind the curve on. But I will tell you this, and I’m only repeating what the late Pete Luter said at an awards banquet, “You can learn just as much at a convention hanging out in the hall or bar as you can in the classroom.” I know that does not sit well with some, but I think it is close to true. There is another part to that. You can make lifelong friends at a convention. Brothers and Sisters in soot that will be there for you when you need them. Believe me, I learned this the hard way. Lifelong memories and friend are made at our National Convention. So, I hope to see both my past friends and future friends in Milwaukee next year!

Yvette Aube AIM Chimney Sweep Midland, Ontario, Canada

An International’s View of NCSG Conventions

As a Canadian, my first trip to an NCSG Convention was to Cincinnati, Ohio is 1995. I helped run the Northeast Regional All Fuels Expo (NERAFE) with the Ontario Chimney Sweeps Association (OCSA) for many years and thought that maybe I should see the other show and be a delegate for a change. Well, we all know how THAT worked out! I have been helping run registration and more since. My first impression of the NCSG event was that it was not as personable as the NERAFE. But with a little prodding we could change all that and make it not only a great educational venue and a great exhibitor venue, but also a great friendship venue. Back then there was not an International gathering to speak of – recognition at the opening ceremonies for those that did come was about it. We were treated

much like everyone else. At the Opening Welcome Party I always brought gifts from Canada to give to the Internationals (thanks to Ginny Heagney for supplying me with any International numbers) and to the President of the NCSG. It’s just my thing. Here’s a tidbit— were you aware that no matter how many times

Vince and I went to the NCSG convention, the Canadians were never mentioned as Internationals! We even paid the US rack rate to attend! It was not

until Jerry Isenhour was the President (2003) that we were recognized as Canadian Delegates at the Opening Ceremonies. That is when I heard someone say “I thought they were from New York!” Well, since those days, things have changed and we are welcomed not only as Internationals but as family. We have watched more Internationals arrive annually from Australia, Japan, France, Scotland, Northern Ireland, England, Sweden, Germany, Italy, Poland and many more countries from all over the world. An International family of sweepers!

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I have so many memories of things that have happened over the years, friendships that have been forged, friends that we have loved and lost, and fun that was had, snow sittings, beard cuttings, costume parties and the list continues. Memories are like eddies in water – they start out small and grow with each disturbance in the stream until they run together like torrents of love and respect. I think I can be comfortable in stating that, the rest of the Internationals can claim the same feelings. I was saddened by the Cancellation of the 2020 Event due to this pandemic that is upon us world-wide, but I truly believe that the next event in 2021 in Wisconsin will be much surrounded by massive amounts of hugs and love and respect. Thank you NCSG for all you have done, since your birth in 1977. Thank you to Eva Horton for your insight and vision of our Trades future. Lastly, thank you EVERYONE for taking us ‘foreigners’ under your collective wings.

David Kline Chim Cheree, the Chimney Specialists Greer, South Carolina

My Dad began sweeping chimneys in upstate South Carolina as Chim Cheree Chimney Sweep in 1978. I was in kindergarten at this time and vaguely remember those early days of the business. Early on, my Dad joined the South Carolina Chimney Sweep Guild and began learning the trade. I remember attending several gatherings of sweeps in various parts of North and South Carolina in the early years. Fairly early on, my Dad joined the National Chimney Sweep Guild and was the 257th Sweep to earn National Certification.

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My dad attended several of NCSG conventions by himself in the early ‘80s. In 1985, he took my Mom along for the first time and she won a trip to London. He took her to every convention since then. There were five of us kids and we were always in school when the convention was scheduled, so my first NCSG convention was 2004 in Myrtle Beach. I had flown to Texas the week before to spend time with my fiancée. The connecting flight to Myrtle Beach was delayed because of snow, of all things, in Myrtle Beach and I got to spend the night in an empty airport. The next day was bright and sunny and I

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made it to the hotel in time for the opening meetings. As an employee and newly certified sweep, I was more interested in technical subjects at first and didn’t care too much for the business type sessions. But at my second convention (San Antonio, 2005) I was recruited to videotape the sessions and make DVDs of them. This was an interesting project that occupied a lot of time, and I have attended every convention since, making many memories at each. Running around to make sure each session was

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recorded, being asked to judge the Inventice Awards, spending time in the SNEWS and Olympia booths at the trade show, seeking out happy or excited faces to photograph, and meeting many new friends. There is a camaraderie and family atmosphere at the convention that is hard to describe. Nearly everyone is friendly, welcoming, and willing to talk and trade stories from the field. The most valuable information is usually picked up by talking in the halls or other conversation venues. Attending the NCSG Convention every year is an easy way to keep your CSIA Certification up. You can easily accumulate the CEUs required for renewal by attending three Conventions. The sessions provide good information on a variety of topics. I’ve learned better inspection practices, new sweeping procedures, and discovered new tools to make my work easier. It is good to come with a plan and a notebook to record observations. The convention has changed over the years and more good information on building a business has

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Tommy Nelms Meet a

Meet Tommy Nelms of Sweeps & Ladders in Franklin, TN. Both a CSIA Board Member and Instructor, Tommy shares with us some ways he overcomes challenges and how his team keeps him motivated.

What is a question you get asked most about being a chimney sweep/chimney sweeping/ the industry?

Are you scared of heights? The answer is no, but in my younger days I took some risks that were unnecessary. Thankfully we have had a lot of really good training like the CSIA Rope Access class. We understand, and are prepared to handle the difficult jobs safely without doing something risky! We say every day that there has never, is not, and will never be a chimney that is worth dying over. We break our morning meeting with the same saying,” At the end of the day, everyone goes home.”

How did you get started in the industry?

I was a career firefighter for the Franklin Fire Department, and like every other fireman I needed a side job. I had done a lot of different things, but I wanted to parlay my experiences from the fire department into a side job. It was ingrained in us at the fire department that “fire prevention starts with education.” I wanted be a part of that process on my days off. What better way to continue that creed than in the chimney and venting industry? Every day I get to educate people about fire safety. You never know how many fires you can prevent simply by being educated and educating those around you.

What advice do you wish you had received when you were getting started?

I wish I would’ve started going to conventions and getting involved earlier. You hear it all of the time, but this is a very giving industry. People really want to help. Making connections with others that have given me advice or helped me correct or avoid mistakes has been so valuable.

What is the biggest challenge you face on the job? What are your best strategies for overcoming it?

For us it’s saying no. We want to help people and fix their problems, but sometimes you don’t have the time, manpower or whatever. This is usually when you get yourself in a bind. We want to fix everyone’s problems and make them happy. As I have gotten older the saying “under promise and over deliver” becomes more and more real. Sometimes I think I have learned my lesson, but then you catch

yourself falling into the same trap! The thing that has been most effective for us has been establishing systems for everything. How we schedule appointments, how we sweep chimneys, how we raise ladders and so on. Stick to your system and remember there are reasons why you do business the way you do business. Thankfully, my wife is a genius and she is so good at stuff like this. The troubles start when we don’t follow these guidelines. Establish the way you want your business to run, teach that to others and explain why you do it that way. These procedures and guidelines have made us more efficient and more profitable.

Who was your most famous customer?

We work in Music City, USA. We have had lots of famous customers!

Have you ever attended NCSG Annual Convention & Trade Show? If so, what was your favorite takeaway?

YES! The convention is a must do. I attended my first convention in Branson, MO and I have not missed one since. The classes are phenomenal, and the connections are invaluable. You show up thinking you have something figured out only to realize there are better ways. People are very willing to help, all you have to do is ask for it.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Personally, being a husband to a wife (Beka) that I do not deserve and a father to my two boys Boone-9 and Wyatt-7. Professionally, my greatest accomplishment is watching and being a part in the growth of the people I have the privilege to work with. I have watched these men and women set goals, achieve them and then work for bigger things. I am so proud of all of them. We have a very young team. Some of them started working here in high school. Watching them grow into leaders, start families, buy houses, and overcome personal struggles has been incredible. It has been an honor to hopefully teach them some of the things that I had to learn the hard way. You hear a lot about their generation, and a lot of it is not flattering. I can tell you this. From what I have seen from my team- they will be just fine!

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Have you ever had to make your own tool to solve a particular problem?

Absolutely! When chimneys are built (especially masonry) no one ever considered that at some point they will have to be worked on, and that causes problems for us. You have to make tools that can reach a far distance or that can get around bends. We’ve made a lot of different tools to grab the things that have been dropped (pocket knives, flashlights, drills, etc.).

Weirdest thing you have ever found in a chimney?

We found a really old arrow. It was wooden with real feathers for the fletching. That was quite an accomplishment having perfectly fall from the top down.

What is, in your opinion, the most valuable part of being a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild?

Relationships and the support from the members and staff. It is very comforting knowing that there are a lot of people out there that are willing to help you succeed. It you are in a situation that you find difficult, chances are that there is a fellow NCSG member that has been through it. The NCSG staff is amazing, and always willing to help. If they do not have the answer they will more than likely know someone that will. The TAC line is amazing!

Thanks, Tommy! Do you know who should be the next featured member? Send your nominations to Annemarie Stockton at astockton@ncsg.org.

What do you like to do outside of work?

We enjoying spending time together as a family. Especially spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, etc. Nothing better than a relaxing day at the lake!

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