In this special episode of Potty Talk LIVE, Richard Behney, The Million Dollar Plumber, shares timeless lessons and insights from over 40 years of experience in the plumbing industry. Whether you’re just starting your plumbing business or looking to take it to the next level, this episode is packed with invaluable tips you won’t want to miss. Richard reflects on the challenges, successes, and game-changing strategies that have shaped his career—and how you can apply these lessons to build your own successful plumbing business.
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Resources
3 Golden Nuggets
- Stop Robbing Yourself
- Attract Good Paying Customers
- Get Your Mind Right
3 Keys to a Thriving Plumbing Business in 2025
If you’re running a plumbing business, you’ve likely heard the same advice over and over: “Work harder, hustle more, and keep grinding.” But what if I told you that the secret to success isn’t just working harder—it’s working smarter, charging your worth, and thinking like a CEO?
In this episode of Potty Talk Live, we’re celebrating a special milestone (🎉 Happy Birthday to Richard!) and reflecting on over 40 years of lessons from the trenches. Whether you’re just starting your plumbing business or looking to break through to the next level, this post is for you.
Here are the 3 essential keys to building a thriving, profitable plumbing business in 2025.
Stop Robbing Yourself
Let’s get real: If you’re not charging what you’re worth, you’re stealing from your own family.
Too many plumbing business owners set their prices based on fear. They worry that if they charge more, they’ll lose customers. The truth? You’re not in the business of being the cheapest. You’re in the business of providing value.
Here’s why it matters:
- Undercharging eats away at your profit margins, leaving nothing for growth or reinvestment.
- Pricing based on what competitors charge is a race to the bottom.
- When you charge what you’re worth, you’ll attract higher-quality customers who value your work.
💡 Pro Tip: Figure out your honest hourly rate. This number reflects what you actually need to charge to cover expenses, pay your team, and turn a profit.
Attract Good Paying Customers
Not all customers are created equal. The secret to a profitable plumbing business? Focus on customers who pay well and pay today.
Why residential service is your golden ticket:
- Homeowners typically pay upfront and appreciate great service.
- You can create loyal, repeat customers with the right approach.
Here’s how to stand out:
- Show up in a clean truck, wear boot covers, and respect their home.
- Offer a 5-star experience from start to finish. Small details go a long way in building trust.
- Avoid working for low-paying clients like general contractors or warranty companies. They’ll squeeze your margins and drain your energy.
💡 Pro Tip: Focus on providing value, not just plumbing. Solve problems with a smile, and you’ll build a reputation that keeps customers coming back.
Get Your Mind Right
Success in business isn’t just about tools and techniques—it starts with the way you think. If you’re stuck in a “plumber’s mindset,” it’s time to make the shift to a “business owner’s mindset.”
Here’s what that looks like:
- Stop thinking of yourself as a plumber who owns a business. Think of yourself as a business owner who happens to offer plumbing services.
- Adopt an abundance mindset. Wealth is built by seeing opportunities where others see problems.
- Start educating yourself. A great place to start is Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. This book will open your eyes to the difference between working for money and having money work for you.
💡 Pro Tip: Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. Join a community of business owners who are ahead of you on the journey—they’ll pull you up to their level.
Richard’s Call to Action
You don’t have to figure this all out alone. If you’re ready to start charging what you’re worth, attracting high-paying customers, and transforming your mindset, we’ve got resources to help you succeed:
- Download the Free Blueprint: Get the exact steps to start and scale a profitable plumbing business → milliondollarplumber.com/free
- Join the Success Academy: Learn the strategies you need to build a thriving plumbing business → milliondollarplumber.com/call
Remember, building a successful plumbing business isn’t complicated, but it does require focus, discipline, and a commitment to growth.


