BuiltWealth™: A Framework for Trades Business Owners
February 12, 2026 •
Welcome back to the Entrepreneur’s Journey Podcast. In this episode, Michael and Jason kick off a new podcast series focused on BuiltWealth™, a service model developed specifically for business owners in the trades. Michael and Jason explore why this audience—roofers, electricians, HVAC companies, plumbers, painters, and other home-service professionals—is underserved when it comes to financial advice.
They explain the inspiration behind the BuiltWealth™ Ladder: a 7-rung system designed to help trades-based entrepreneurs organize their financial lives, grow their wealth, and eventually transition their businesses successfully. Drawing from their own experience as business owners and financial planners, Michael and Jason share how their unique approach brings together financial planning, business consulting, and strategic partnerships to create lasting value for their clients.
Tune into this episode to also learn:
● Why trades-based entrepreneurs are often overlooked by traditional financial advisors.
● How the BuiltWealth™ Ladder helps simplify complex business and financial decisions.
● Key triggers that indicate when a business owner needs help coordinating their finances.
● The unique process HFM uses to onboard and serve business owners at different stages.
What we discussed
● [00:01:05] Introduction to the BuiltWealth™ service model and why trades-based entrepreneurs are the focus.
● [00:07:10] How many trades business owners grow their companies without formal business training.
● [00:13:07] The seven rungs of the BuiltWealth™ Ladder, from early growth to legacy planning.
● [00:18:00] The importance of having a second engine of wealth outside the business.
● [00:24:43] Understanding the BuiltWealth™ onboarding process: JobWalk, SiteSurvey, Blueprint, and BuildOut.
● [00:30:00] What’s coming next: future episodes exploring each rung in detail and featuring expert guests.
3 Things To Remember
- Trades business owners often lack the financial coordination needed as their businesses grow and become more complex.
- The BuiltWealth™ Ladder offers a clear, relatable framework tailored to the real-life progression of business owners in the trades.
- HFM’s team brings both financial planning expertise and entrepreneurial experience—giving clients a unique, well-rounded partnership.
Memorable moments
(00:06:44) “We’re not just out here to make you think we sound smart… our job is to put it in a way people understand.”
(00:17:50) “The investments that we use are like the shingles. What matters is the system around it to make sure there are no leaks.”
(00:29:10) “We know we can’t work with everyone, but we want to provide as much value as we can early in the process.”
Useful Links
Connect with Michael Pallozzi: mpallozzi@hfmadvisors.com | LinkedIn
Connect with Jason Gabrieli: jgabrieli@hfmadvisors.com | LinkedIn
Like what you’ve heard…
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HFM Investment Advisors, LLC is a registered investment adviser. All statements and opinions expressed are based upon information considered reliable although it should not be relied upon as such. Any statements or opinions are subject to change without notice. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. All investments involve risk and are not guaranteed. Information expressed does not take into account your specific situation or objectives and is not intended as a recommendation appropriate for any individual. Listeners are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified tax, legal, or investment advisor to determine whether any information presented may be suitable for their specific situation. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.
