13 Veterans, Gold Star families and facilities that support veterans will receive a new roof or siding at no cost.

In honor of Veterans Day, QXO, Inc. (NYSE: QXO) announced today the launch of its annual QXO for Veterans initiative, honoring veterans, Gold Star families and the communities that stand behind them. Now in its eighth year, the 2026 QXO for Veterans program is expanding beyond roofing to include siding.

The 2026 program will provide 13 veterans, Gold Star Families and facilities that support veterans with property improvements at no cost. Each winner will receive a new roof or siding installed by local professionals using products from TRI-BUILT®, QXO’s private label brand and materials from CertainTeed, the 2026 exclusive program partner.

“QXO’s commitment to serving veterans is one of the reasons I chose to join the company,” said Sherri Leach, a U.S. Army veteran and vice president and deputy chief information security officer at QXO. “QXO for Veterans puts that commitment into action by helping protect the homes of veterans returning home. This year, I’m proud that we’re expanding beyond roofing to include siding, helping address another critical need for veterans and their families.”

The nomination period opens today, Veterans Day and runs through December 31, 2026. The program is open to all military veterans in the U.S. and Canada, and Gold Star Family members. Nominations can be submitted online at go.qxo.com/qxoforveterans or by emailing QXOforVeterans@QXO.com.

A panel of judges, including QXO executives and veterans, the publishers of Roofers Coffee Shop and Roofing Contractor and executives from CertainTeed and other organizations, will review all submissions and select the winners.

Since launching in 2018, QXO for Veterans has partnered with local roofing contractors and suppliers across North America to install 70 new roofs for veterans, Gold Star Families and facilities that serve veterans. The initiative is a key part of QXO’s broader commitment to support neighbors, strengthen communities and give back to those who have given so much.

To learn more about QXO for Veterans, including nomination details, past recipients and official program rules, visit go.qxo.com/qxoforveterans.

About QXO

QXO is a leading distributor and installer of building products serving an $800 billion market. The Company’s mission is to modernize the building products industry through advanced technology and a best-in-class customer experience. QXO is North America’s largest distributor and installer of insulation, the second-largest distributor of roofing products, the second-largest publicly traded distributor of lumber and building materials and the largest distributor of waterproofing products. The Company is targeting $50 billion in annual revenue within the decade through accretive acquisitions and organic growth. For more information, visit QXO.com.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Award-winning content, strategic planning and authentic industry conversations are the foundation for a successful year ahead.

As we move into the final months of 2026, marketing teams across the building envelope and construction industries are looking ahead to 2027. The most successful companies are not waiting until January to start planning. They are identifying the stories they want to tell, the customers they want to reach and the content they need to create now so they can begin the new year with momentum. The Coffee Shops® has built its reputation on helping manufacturers, distributors, service providers and associations connect with industry professionals through trusted content, community engagement and multimedia storytelling. This month, we are focusing on one important message: start building your 2027 marketing plan today with multimedia opportunities that keep your brand visible, searchable and part of the industry conversation all year long.

As we move through the final months of 2026, it is also time to celebrate the wins that shaped the year and plan how those stories will carry into 2027. Awards do not happen by accident. They happen when companies take the time to recognize strong work, gather the right stories and submit them for industry recognition. The Coffee Shops was honored with a MarCom Award for our media kit, and while that is one example, it reinforces an important point: taking the time to submit your best work matters. Award submissions, podcasts, articles, videos, eNews features, social media and live event coverage all work together to capture success, validate your expertise and create content that can be shared across multiple channels long after the original moment has passed.

That is the strength of incorporating The Coffee Shops into your 2027 plan. Our partners gain far more than advertising. We become an extension of their marketing team through integrated multimedia programs designed to educate customers, launch products, build thought leadership and strengthen brands. Every article, podcast, webinar, video and live event can work together to improve SEO, increase AI discoverability and create meaningful connections with decision makers. Instead of treating each marketing opportunity as a separate tactic, companies can build a connected content strategy that starts with a great story and expands into year-round visibility.

One of the best ways to strengthen that strategy is by investing in original content that can be used throughout the year. That is why we encourage companies to reserve an on-location shoot as part of their upcoming campaign planning. There is no substitute for capturing your people, products, projects and expertise in real-world settings. An on-location shoot creates a content engine that can fuel articles, videos, social media, podcasts, eNews content, sales presentations and AI-searchable online resources throughout the year. Rather than creating marketing pieces one at a time, forward-thinking companies are building content libraries designed to deliver long-term value across every platform where customers are learning, searching and making decisions.

Trade shows and industry events should be part of that same multimedia plan. At key 2027 shows, The Coffee Shops offers interviews on our sound stage along with in-booth interview and video opportunities that help companies spotlight their people, products and expertise in front of the industry. These events are the perfect place to capture executive conversations, customer testimonials, product launches and thought leadership that can be repurposed into articles, podcasts, videos, eNews features and social media throughout the year. Better yet, sponsor the sound stage at a 2027 show and put your brand front and center as contractors, manufacturers and industry leaders gather to talk about what is new, what is next and what will shape the year ahead.

Coffee Conversations offer another way to bring your 2027 messaging to life through multimedia storytelling. These discussions continue to bring together contractors, manufacturers and industry experts to share ideas, discuss trends and explore the challenges shaping our industry. For advertisers, Coffee Conversations provide more than visibility. They create opportunities to become part of meaningful industry discussions while generating content that can live on as video, podcast, transcript, article and social media content. If you are looking for a way to establish thought leadership, educate the market and connect with roofing professionals in an authentic format, now is the time to reserve your spot.

This month we are also spotlighting Western Colloid, a company that has consistently invested in education, relationship-building and long-term industry engagement. Its commitment to sharing expertise and supporting contractors demonstrates the value of a strategic, content-driven approach that extends beyond traditional advertising. It is a strong example of how companies can use ongoing conversations, educational content and multimedia visibility to build trust with contractors and stay present in the market.

As you prepare for 2027, think beyond individual campaigns and consider how your content, events, advertising and multimedia efforts can work together to tell a cohesive story. The companies that win attention and build trust are the ones that create consistent, valuable touchpoints throughout the year. With The Coffee Shops, a live event can become a podcast. A podcast can become an article. An article can become social media. A video can become an eNews feature, a sales tool and an AI-discoverable resource. That is how multimedia planning turns one opportunity into lasting value.

The Coffee Shops team is ready to help you build that strategy. Whether you are interested in an on-location shoot, Coffee Conversations, sound stage sponsorships, in-booth interviews, live event coverage or a customized multimedia program, now is the perfect time to secure your opportunities and start planning for a successful 2027.

Ready to get started? Contact The Coffee Shops team today to reserve your 2027 opportunities, request additional information or schedule a marketing planning conversation. We would love to help you build a stronger, smarter and more successful year ahead.

Acquisition strengthens RPM's portfolio of waterproofing solutions

RPM International Inc. (NYSE: RPM) today announced that a definitive agreement has been signed for the acquisition of Volteco S.p.A. (Volteco), an Italy-based leading supplier of below-grade waterproofing solutions, for its Tremco Construction Products Group (Tremco CPG). This strategic acquisition brings a unique and differentiated technology platform to Tremco CPG.

Headquartered in Ponzano Veneto, Italy, Volteco specializes in advanced waterproofing technology with calendar year 2025 sales of €28 million. The company is recognized for its AmphibiaTM waterproofing sheet membrane. Volteco also produces a line of bagged powder goods for patch and repair applications, alongside flexible liquids, mortars, resins and damp-proofing materials.

Volteco's cutting-edge waterproofing solutions have been pivotal in numerous high-profile projects, including the protection of historical landmarks in Venice and the construction of modern facilities like the Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena in Milan, a key facility for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games.

Other notable applications include waterproofing for the strategic public work of an underground tunnel connecting the Abruzzo Regional Citadel to the L’Aquila bus terminal, a hub for intercity connections to over 22 cities in Italy, including Naples and Rome and ensuring the structural integrity of Y-40, the world’s deepest thermal pool.

The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of fiscal 2027, subject to customary closing conditions.

"Volteco is an excellent complement to the product lines of our Tremco Construction Products Group," stated Frank Sullivan, RPM chairman and CEO. "This acquisition provides Tremco CPG with new technologies that can be leveraged through its global sales force to drive growth and enhance its 'Power of One' value proposition for customers."

About Tremco Construction Products Group

Tremco Construction Products Group (Tremco CPG), part of the RPM International Inc. portfolio, unites industry-leading building envelope solutions manufacturers and trusted brands, including Tremco, Nudura, Dryvit, Willseal, Flowcrete, Nullifire and Vandex, to deliver comprehensive, integrated construction systems. With operations spanning North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, India and Latin America, Tremco CPG has a global presence supported by regional businesses and distributors who understand local market needs. Tremco CPG solutions ensure long-lasting performance for commercial, industrial and residential projects worldwide, while international teams collaborate on training, testing and innovation to build high-performing structures in any geography or climate.

About RPM

RPM International Inc. owns subsidiaries that are world leaders in specialty coatings, sealants, building materials and related services. The company operates across three reportable segments: consumer, construction products and performance coatings. RPM has a diverse portfolio of market-leading brands, including Rust-Oleum, DAP, Zinsser, Varathane, The Pink Stuff, Stonhard, Carboline, Finish Works, Tremco, Euclid Chemical, Dryvit and Nudura. From homes and workplaces to infrastructure and precious landmarks, RPM’s brands are trusted by consumers and professionals alike to help build a better world. The company employs approximately 17,500 individuals worldwide. Visit www.RPMinc.com to learn more.

For more information, contact Matt Schlarb, vice president – investor relations & sustainability, at 330-220-6064 or mschlarb@rpminc.com.

David Taylor Griffin, 52, of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, passed away on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, with his loving family by his side.

David was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina to the late Shirley Louise Carmichael and Robert Gilmer Griffin.

David is survived by his loving wife, Kimberly Morgan Griffin; two sons, Dylan (Kyndal Moore) Taylor Griffin of Conway and Caden Luke Griffin of Murrells Inlet; a brother, Greg (Debbie) Griffin of Walkertown, North Carolina; a niece, Ashley Garner; and nephews, Geoffrey Griffin, Jesse Morgan (Ryleigh Gregory), Jacob Morgan (Morgan), Sawyer Morgan and Landon Smith.

David was the owner and operator of Coastal Commercial Roofing, Inc. throughout most of his career and was the former president of CRSMCA. He proudly ended his roofing career at Spann Roofing as a Senior Sales and Account Manager. He also was a long-time member of Surfside Methodist Church.

Throughout his battle with cancer, David fought with a strength and courage beyond what anyone could have imagined. Even through the most difficult days, he never complained or wavered in his faith in Jesus Christ. He faced every challenge with remarkable grace, unwavering determination, and a quiet strength that inspired everyone around him. David truly embodied what it means to be strong and courageous in the Lord, trusting in God’s promises until the very end.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, November 8, 2026 at 2:30pm at First Methodist Church, 901 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29577. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until time of service.

Memorials may be made in David’s memory to First Methodist Church, PO Box 1367, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29578.

Condolences may be made at www.burroughsfh.com. Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Services (843.651.1440) of Murrells Inlet is assisting the family with arrangements.

David Griffin of Spann Roofing & Sheet Metal, Carolinas Roofing Association Past President and former Chairman of the Carolinas Roofing Association's Roofing Academy, was diagnosed with cancer in October 2025. During this challenging time, we want to wrap our association family around his family with support, encouragement, and care.

David was been a valued member of the Carolinas Roofing Associaton community and contributed greatly to our industry. David's family continues to face significant emotional and financial burdens. To help ease some of this strain, a GoFundMe page has been created on their behalf.

If you feel led to support, donations and messages of encouragement can be shared here.

We recognize that not everyone may be able to contribute financially. Your thoughts, prayers, and well-wishes are equally meaningful and deeply appreciated.

Thank you for keeping David and the Griffin family in your thoughts during this time. The strength of our association lies in our people, and together we can help lift up those who need us most.

By Emma Richardson. 

Grandel's Roofing and Construction is just what the doctor ordered for this couple. 

For one Nebraskan couple, the sky falling was nothing new. Rick and Glenda Roasch have spent years overcoming one medical challenge after another. When their roof began leaking, it was just another downpour of stress.  

Living on a fixed income with mounting medical bills meant that home maintenance was deferred, ultimately resulting in leaks during rainstorms and snowmelt. While the couple knew the roof badly needed replacing, it simply wasn’t in the budget.  

Having undergone two back surgeries previously, Glenda was no stranger to the doctor’s office. But in 2015 she was diagnosed with mouth and throat cancer. This resulted in heavy radiation treatments as well as the loss of part of her tongue. Unfortunately, the bad news kept coming.  

She was diagnosed with and received treatment for lung cancer in 2022 and again in 2024 for lung and throat cancer. In total, she has undergone chemotherapy, immunotherapy, countless radiation treatments and has had nine lymph nodes removed. She still receives radiation twice a month.  

These obstacles have not prevented her from being a present mother, grandmother and friend. “Through it all, family members describe her as a fighter,” says Allison Peck of the North Platte Post. “The nomination noted that many people beyond their immediate relatives consider Rick and Glenda family.”  

Rick faces his own challenges as well. He has received multiple surgeries to resolve blood blockages in his legs and neck. He also has a rare lung disease and cataracts in both his eyes.  

With so many medical bills stretching the budget, Rick and Glenda thought they had no choice but to make do with their failing roof. Luckily, their community thought differently. When Grandel’s Roofing and Construction received Glenda and Rick’s nomination for their annual free roof giveaway, they found their winner.  

It may not be the cure for cancer, but receiving a new roof removed a huge source of stress, prevented further structural damage and greatly improved Rick and Glenda’s quality of life. For a couple that has more than enough on their plate already, that is an enormous relief. By providing a new roof, Grandel’s Roofing and Construction give Rick and Glenda the time and energy to focus on their heath and their loved ones more than ever.  

The only known flight school offering RCEP-recognized professional development hours through FAA Part 107 training is helping engineers master the "tape measure of the sky."

Drone U, a Colorado-based professional drone flight school, is bridging aviation education and professional engineering through its Registered Continuing Education Program (RCEP) participation. The program enables licensed professional engineers to earn 24 professional development hours (PDHs) through FAA Part 107 training, connecting continuing education requirements with the growing use of unmanned aircraft in engineering practice.

Drone U is the only flight school known to offer this combination of professional drone training and RCEP-recognized continuing education for engineers.

The distinction reflects a broader evolution in engineering: drones are becoming essential instruments for collecting, measuring and documenting information about the physical world.

The tape measure of the sky

Across civil engineering, utilities, construction, transportation and infrastructure management, drones are changing how professionals observe and evaluate physical assets.

Equipped with high-resolution cameras, positioning systems and specialized sensors, unmanned aircraft can capture information used to create measurable maps, three-dimensional models, topographic representations and detailed infrastructure records.

What once required extensive ground-based documentation or specialized access equipment can, in appropriate circumstances, be accomplished through aerial data collection.

For professional engineers, the drone is increasingly becoming the tape measure of the sky—an instrument that extends their ability to observe, measure and understand the environments they design, build and maintain.

However, the usefulness of aerial data depends on more than the technology itself. Safe aircraft operation, proper data acquisition, an understanding of measurement accuracy and sound engineering judgment remain essential.

Integrating aviation knowledge into engineering education

Drone U's continuing education program allows engineers to complete FAA Part 107 training while earning 24 PDHs toward professional license-renewal requirements, subject to acceptance by their respective state licensing boards.

The online curriculum addresses aviation regulations, airspace, weather, aircraft performance, operational limitations and flight safety.

These competencies provide the regulatory and operational foundation for engineers who intend to incorporate unmanned aircraft into their professional workflows.

Unlike traditional continuing education providers that primarily deliver classroom instruction, Drone U operates as a dedicated flight school with experience-based instruction in aircraft operations, mapping, photogrammetry, three-dimensional modeling and infrastructure inspection.

This combination provides an educational connection between aviation fundamentals and the practical demands of engineering applications.

"Engineering has always been grounded in the ability to accurately measure and understand the physical world," said Paul Aitken, CEO of Drone U. "Drones are extending that capability into the air, providing access to perspectives and information that were previously difficult to obtain. We call it the tape measure of the sky. Our objective is to ensure engineers understand not only how to operate these aircraft safely, but also how to recognize their capabilities and limitations when applying aerial data to professional work."

An expanding role in infrastructure

As engineering organizations increasingly adopt digital measurement and documentation technologies, unmanned aircraft are becoming part of established workflows.

Civil engineers can use drone-derived information to support site assessments and earthwork analysis. Utility engineers can document transmission and distribution infrastructure. Construction teams can monitor progress and record site conditions, while structural engineers can use aerial imagery to support visual inspections of difficult-to-access assets.

These applications do not replace licensed surveying, engineering judgment or established measurement standards. Instead, they expand the methods available for gathering information and documenting physical conditions.

Drone U's professional engineering education pathway recognizes the increasing importance of aviation competency within these technical disciplines.

As an RCEP-registered education provider, Drone U offers an opportunity for engineers to pursue a practical emerging technology while maintaining their professional development requirements.

Engineers can learn more about the program at: https://props.thedroneu.com/engineering-ce/

About Drone U

Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Loveland, Colorado, Drone U provides professional unmanned aircraft education for individual pilots, engineers, utilities, public agencies and enterprise organizations.

Through its PROPS online learning platform and in-person training programs, Drone U provides instruction in aviation fundamentals, flight proficiency, aerial mapping, photogrammetry, three-dimensional modeling and infrastructure inspection.

Drone U emphasizes practical flight competency, repeatable performance standards and the responsible integration of unmanned aircraft into professional operations.

For more information, visit https://www.thedroneu.com.

STAC Skilled Trades Champions will support schools, businesses and organizations helping Americans begin careers in the skilled trades.

The Skilled Trades Advisory Council (STAC) today announced STAC Skilled Trades Champions, a national contest awarding two winners $10,000 each toward tools and equipment to help more people begin careers in the skilled trades. Applications are now open through Jan. 7, 2027.

Each winner will receive a $10,000 gift card to a national tool supplier selected by STAC. The awards will support the skilled trades work described in the winning applications.

The contest welcomes applications from teachers, schools, training programs, small businesses, community organizations and individual mentors supporting pathways into trades careers. Applicants must identify a U.S.-based school, business or organization that will receive the award and use it to support that work.

From a high school shop teacher introducing students to hands-on work to a community college welding program or a plumbing business training apprentices, STAC Skilled Trades Champions aims to support people already building the next generation of skilled professionals.

“Across the country, teachers, mentors and business owners are helping people discover careers in the skilled trades,” said Rob Almond, CEO of NEST and a founding advisor of STAC. “We want to hear their stories, understand what they need and put tools and equipment in their hands so they can reach more future tradespeople.”

To apply, participants must submit a video of 90 seconds or less explaining their work and how $10,000 in tools and equipment would expand their impact. Video production quality will not be scored. Entries are limited to one application per receiving school, business or organization.

A judging panel of STAC founding advisors Andrew Brown, Sarah Hammond, Mónica Muñoz, Kate Cinnamo, Sara Angus, Julie Starzynski and Rob Almond will evaluate applications based on demonstrated impact, the clarity and feasibility of the proposed use of tools and equipment, and the potential to reach more future tradespeople.

Applications close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Jan. 7, 2027. STAC expects to notify potential winners on or about Jan. 29, with awards expected to be delivered by Feb. 19, subject to eligibility verification and completion of required documentation.

Individuals submitting applications must be at least 18 years old and legal residents of the 50 United States or District of Columbia. Applications on behalf of a school, business or organization must be submitted by an authorized representative. No purchase or payment is necessary to apply or win. Additional eligibility requirements and exclusions apply.

Application information and Official Rules are available at skilledtradesadvisorycouncil.com.

About the Skilled Trades Advisory Council

The Skilled Trades Advisory Council (STAC) is a nonprofit organization launched in August 2023 to address the skilled trades labor crisis in the U.S. and Canada. Spearheaded by Rob Almond, CEO of NEST, STAC brings together national advocates from diverse industries who contribute their resources, knowledge and networks to elevate skilled trades, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, janitorial and construction, as high-paying, honorable and essential career paths. STAC’s mission is to build renewed respect for these vital careers, attract more individuals to pursue trades and support a sustainable workforce. To learn more, visit skilledtradesadvisorycouncil.com or follow STAC on LinkedIn.

Tando Composites President and CEO Ralph Bruno appeared on a recent RoofersCoffeeShop® podcast to discuss composite cladding technology and how it fits into today’s roofing professionals' business strategy. 

Hosted by Heidi Ellsworth, CEO and president of RoofersCoffeeShop®, the Roofing Road Trips® episode explores the world of roofing, offering tips, expertise, innovations and challenges to help build a better roofing business.

Although Tando Composites does not offer roofing products, Bruno discusses how innovative solutions such as Beach House Shake, the authentic composite shingle and TandoStone, the #1 brand of composite stone, are increasing revenue and margins for roofing contractors and how expanding into composite cladding allows them to diversify and stand out in today’s economy.

“Early in my career, I was part of two of the market’s game-changing brands and technologies, Trex® and AZEK®. Both leading brands created new categories and led the market via substitution of wood decking and wood trim, respectively”, said Bruno. “My team and I are taking that same brand building, category creation and technology expansion to Tando Composites.”

He noted that as a regular attendee at the International Roofing Expo and during his tenure as chair of PEPA, the Polymeric Exteriors Products Association, it was clear that roofing pros are diversifying and looking for ways to differentiate their everyday businesses.

Heidi added, “In addition, homeowners are looking for a roofing contractor they can trust, but one that can also take care of other aspects, perhaps siding and windows, as a one-stop shop.”

As Bruno explained, Tando Composites’ two product lines, TandoStone and Beach House Shake, can add to the roofers’ portfolio by allowing them to capture more “share of wall” with two products known for authentic beauty that lasts for decades and fast, easy installation without calling in subcontractors. 

“TandoStone, as well as ProBrick, is a substitute for mortar-applied stone veneer without the need for a mason, is virtually unbreakable and is resistant to moisture even with ground contact. Beach House Shake looks identical to individually nailed-in cedar shingles and stays looking like the day it was installed,” said Bruno. Both install quickly using traditional tools, saving weeks of labor and installation time – all while answering the homeowners’ needs of authenticity and durability.”

Bruno noted that the composite technology of both product lines adds resistance to weather and moisture, with no splitting, cracking or warping and little to no upkeep required. Both products carry a Class 4 Hail Rating for durability peace of mind, while Beach House Shake is Miami-Dade approved for High Velocity Hurricane Zones.

Heidi shard, “We are so happy to have Tando Composites as part of the RoofersCoffeeShop community, and this podcast was such a great conversation. I loved talking about the opportunities roofing contractors have to diversify and become that trusted resource homeowners can turn to for more of their exterior needs. Tando Composites offers beautiful, high-performing solutions that make that expansion a natural fit for contractors looking to grow their businesses.”

Listen to the RoofersCoffeeShop podcast here and visit www.tandocomposites.com and www.beachhouseshake.com for more information.

Listen to “Building billion-dollar brands” with Ralph Bruno here.

About Tando Composites

Tando Composites, a division of Derby Building Products, is the leader in composite exterior cladding with Beach House Shake, the authentic composite shingle and TandoStone, the #1 brand of composite stone. Backed by more than five decades of product innovation, Tando Composites produces high-performance products professionals prefer and consumers demand.

By Emma Peterson.

We’re counting down the 10 most-read stories from The Coffee Shops® to help you stay on top of the latest industry conversations.

Though it may be hard to believe, October is already coming to a close. And if your month has been anything like ours here at The Coffee Shops®, it’s been busy and hard to keep up with!

To make it a bit easier for our readers to catch up on the biggest industry news and stories from October 2026, we’ve collected our top ten articles published this past month.

As our readers move into the off-season, we’ve seen an uptick of interest in training and business development articles! On the training side, our top ten list includes an article about John Kenney of Cotney Consulting Group's upcoming two-day live classroom training workshop (November 17-18, 2026) and an article based on a conversation with Rick Johnson of Tremco CPG about partnering with manufacturers that back their products up with training.

On the business development side, Emma Peterson wrote three articles for The Coffee Shops® highlighting different ways contractors can set their businesses up for success. The first, which comes in at number 6 on our list, talks about four takeaways from a decade of RoofersCoffeeShop® Trends Reports. The other articles, which take spots 3 and 2, take a look at the state of the economy going into the last quarter of the year and at the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)'s live LEGALCon event, respectively.

As for our top article of the month, it was all about "the certifications, technologies and best practices that help roofing professionals build more fire-resilient structures.”

Our top ten articles from October

10 - The business case for smarter construction recycling

9 - Extending building life starts with education and training

8 - Advocacy remains a roofing priority

7 - Building smarter roofers with expert training

6 - A decade of roofing trends

5 - Good project managers think three weeks ahead

4 - NWIR scholarship opens doors for future roofing leaders

3 - Going into the last quarter of 2026

2 - Set yourself apart from the competition at LEGALCon 2026

1 - Creating a more fire-safe future

By Emma Peterson.

Heidi J. Ellsworth joins Duct Tape Marketing to explore how community, content and authentic relationships can help small businesses thrive in the age of AI.

In 2005, Duct Tape Marketing launched a podcast. The goal was to “help small business owners and the marketers who serve them build clear strategies, simple systems and a steady flow of leads.”

Now, over two decades later, they are the most popular small business marketing podcast with over 1,200 episodes on topics ranging from SEO and email marketing to referrals and business growth.

The podcast is hosted by John Jantsch. John is the founder of the Duct Tape Marketing agency and the author of “a highly regarded blog that Forbes has recognized as one of the top 5 for small business marketing.” On a recent episode of the podcast, he sat down with Heidi J. Ellsworth and Sara Nay.

Heidi is the president and CEO here at The Coffee Shops® and has developed multiple award-winning media and community platforms serving the roofing, coatings, metal and outdoor living industries. Sara is the current CEO of Duct Tape Marketing, where she works on expanding their operations with a focus on “turning marketing from a constant source of frustration into a repeatable business asset.”

In the episode, Heidi, Sara and John discussed how small businesses can build trust with customers through online communities, directories, networking and content. As Heidi put it, “We always say people do business with people, right? They want to know who they’re doing business with, and they want to feel good about buying from you and trust.” This is all especially important in the era of artificial intelligence (AI) as these different programs amplify businesses that have an extended and consistent online presence beyond a singular company website.

Overall, this is a must-listen for anyone looking to combine “offline relationship-building with online content and AI tools without losing the trust that got them there.”

Listen to the episode today!