#119 Off The Tools with David Macneil from Energy Pig

David shared his journey from bankruptcy to building a successful business in the heating market, emphasizing the importance of self-education, resilience, and the right team. He discussed the challenges and strategies of growing his company, Energy Energy Grant Scotland, and transitioning to renewable energy, including the acquisition of a new building and the rebranding of his company. The team also explored the potential of establishing a site for their services, the shift towards renewable energy, and the challenges and requirements of their work.
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Summary
David's Journey to Business Success

David shared his journey from losing his first business and becoming homeless to rebuilding his career in the heating market. He discussed how he grew his business from a small operation to a company with 74 staff and 41 vans, primarily through insulation and heating services. Wayne and Andy offered insights, suggesting that David's non-engineering background may have initially hindered his business acumen. Despite having no formal training or trade education, David emphasized the valuable lessons he learned from his failures, including better financial management and surrounding himself with the right team.
Wayne Bettess , Trades Business coach, Business Coach for Tradesmen 
David's Journey to Success and Resilience

David shared his journey of becoming a successful businessman, emphasizing the importance of self-education and monitoring one's operations. He also discussed the challenges he faced when his business went bankrupt, including selling off personal assets to stay afloat. Wayne and the others listened intently, acknowledging the resilience and ingenuity it takes to overcome such difficulties. David's advice on using YouTube for learning and his preference for using other people's money to make money were also highlighted.
Energy Energy Grant Scotland and Eco Free Expansion

David runs Energy Energy Grant Scotland, a company he established in 2017 to offer boiler finance and grants. He initially struggled with pricing and understanding financials but turned the business around through loans, hiring staff, and servicing boilers themselves. During Covid-19, he secured funding to expand into the Eco Free market, selling carbon credits. David takes a hands-on approach, building infrastructure like hiring managers for key roles. Wayne expressed interest in learning more about Eco Free.
Company Growth, Challenges, and Renewable Projects

David and Wayne discussed the company's growth over the past 18 months, which included the enrollment of 18 vans and a turnover of 900,000. David shared the challenges they faced during this period, such as the need to invest in new systems and processes to handle increased volumes. They also discussed the company's transition to a new scheme called Eco 4,