In this powerful episode of the Build it to Sell it! Podcast, host Lance Bachmann welcomes entrepreneur Ismael Valdez to share the raw, unfiltered story of building his company from a garage start-up to a staggering $100M+ exit to the Wrench Group. Ismael dives deep into the "Home Comfort School" of business, explaining how he mastered marketing to ensure his "sales machine" never stopped running. The conversation explores the often-overlooked emotional side of success, including the heavy sacrifices made during the early years of fatherhood and the importance of maintaining an abundance mindset even when facing betrayal and bad partnerships. Key Highlights: The Blueprint for Growth: How Ismael transitioned from a supply house counter to managing a company with 160+ employees. Ethics in Action: Why choosing to walk away from a bad partnership was more profitable than entering a lengthy legal battle. Recruiting the Best: The secret to attracting "A-Players" and "Sharks" by prioritizing pay, respect, and consistent work. The Weight of Sacrifice: A candid discussion on the guilt and necessity of spending time away from family to secure a multi-generational legacy. Whether you are in the roofing space, HVAC, or any service industry, this episode offers a masterclass in operations, marketing, and the heart of a true hustler.