Most contractors don’t lose money because they’re bad at the trade — they lose money because money leaks quietly: missed invoices, forgotten extras, slow receivables, and no real job costing. In this episode, we break down the real reason “busy” doesn’t always mean “profitable.”\
John McDonald (Integrity Coaching) returns to talk job costing, receivables, and the hidden $20-bill moments that drain margins: unbilled service calls, change orders that never get invoiced, crews bleeding time on “quick stops,” and the dangerous mindset of “I’ll get paid eventually.”
We also dive into why most business owners never learned the numbers, what to do if you’re behind on financial education, and how ongoing learning (mentors, coaching, practical modules) can directly translate into more cash, more control, and less stress.
Chapters / Timestamps
00:00 – Intro + Toronto contractor review
01:00 – Why job costing is the difference in tight margins
08:30 – The “money you never invoiced” problem (missed jobs + extras)
12:55 – If you don’t know numbers, where do you start? (mentor vs coach)
18:40 – Hidden leaks: drive-thrus, wasted time, small inefficiencies
20:35 – Receivables, cashflow, and why 30+ days gets risky fast
38:20 – Holdbacks, payment terms, and tightening contracts
46:20 – Ongoing education + Integrity Coaching’s “Six Pack” modules
01:08:05 – Serious incidents, risk, and protecting the business
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What is The Deconstruction Podcast?
Construction isn’t just about building—it’s about breaking things down to make them better. The Deconstruction Podcast dives deep into the untold stories, insider insights, and success strategies that shape the construction industry. Hosted by the founders of Jobtable, we tackle topics that matter most to contractors and entrepreneurs, sharing actionable advice and interviewing industry leaders who’ve paved the way to success. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, spark new ideas, or stay ahead in the game, this podcast is your ultimate tool for construction and entrepreneurship.
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