Rallying for a Cause
THE JOURNAL OF CHIMNEY AND VENTING TECHNOLOGY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
10
Rallying for a Cause
A record-setting turnout showcased the generosity, fellowship, and heart of the chimney and hearth community.
6
Congratulations to the New Certified Chimney Professionals
Cheers to the 29 individuals who earned their Certified Chimney Professional (CCP) certification in May or June!
9
NFPA and UL Updates
The latest NFPA and UL updates bring changes that impact inspections, venting requirements, and fireplace products.
17
The Cap Challenge
Doctor Flue’s team challenge encourages technicians to spot customer needs and grow revenue during routine appointments.
18
Help Customers Know Who To Trust Before They Hire
NCSG's ready-to-share resources help members explain what to look for in a reputable chimney company.
21 Why Proper Subcontractor Insurance Matters for Chimney Sweeps
A few simple insurance checks can help protect your company from costly claims and liability.
22 What Google's 2026 Changes Mean for Your Business
Recent changes to search, reviews, and AI are reshaping online visibility for home service companies.
Darwin Award
Have you ever seen some interesting things on the job?
Submit a photo with your name and location to marketing@ncsg.org.
Policy ACTION CENTER
Let us know what’s going on!
Submit industry concerns to NCSG’s Policy Action Center. We post live on the website and look into how we can take action. While you’re there, you can also check out the blog for past issues we’ve addressed. Check your email and Facebook to stay up to date!
On the Cover:
Sweep Away Cancer raised a record-setting amount of funds during its annual bike rally at Tail of the Dragon for families in the chimney and hearth industry who have been affected by a cancer diagnosis.
SWEEPI NG
(317) 837-1500
July 2026, Volume 50 #6
Staff
Kailah Schmitz, CAE, Executive Director director@ncsg.org
Jessica Thornton, Associate Director and Certifications Coordinator jessica@ncsg.org
Jonathan Erdman, Director of Education education@ncsg.org
Sydney Kaizer, Director of Marketing and Communications; Sweeping Editor marketing@ncsg.org
Brittney Burton, Membership and Events Coordinator bburton@ncsg.org
Libby Almendarez, Membership, Certifications, and Digital Coordinator office@ncsg.org
DISCLAIMER
The views expressed in Sweeping do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) or its staff.
ADVERTISING
To advertise, email Malisa Minetree at sweepingads@me.com or call (317) 603-7854.
NCSG further reserves the right to reject at any time any advertising determined not to be in keeping with the publication’s standards. Acceptance of advertising by Sweeping does not necessarily constitute endorsement of products or services advertised. NCSG does not make any effort to review or substantiate claims made by advertisers.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Stock images by iStock, Adobe.
ARTICLE SUBMISSION
NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases and articles to the editor at marketing@ncsg.org. Submissions should contain items of interest or importance to the chimney and venting industry. Submissions should not contain direct solicitations, prices, or other forms of advertising verbiage. Submissions may contain images or artwork attached in a JPG format.
In all cases, NCSG reserves the right to edit submissions for space limitations, keep the release and publish at a later date, or refuse to publish the release for any reason. Neither publishing, nor refusing to publish the submission should be considered a statement of NCSG’s opinion regarding the release. © 2026 National Chimney Sweep Guild
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
SSummer is already halfway over! I hope the season has provided you with opportunities to recharge, spend time with family, and continue expanding your skills.
For many of us, summer is filled with masonry projects, chimney sweeping, and inspections for regular customers preparing for the heating season ahead. I appreciate the efforts of our suppliers and marketing partners who continue to provide valuable resources and messaging that encourage customers to schedule service early. Summer also presents opportunities to expand service offerings, including dryer vent cleaning, air duct cleaning, and other home services. Our industry is fortunate to have a wealth of high-quality educational resources available to help professionals at every stage of their careers.
The National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) Board of Directors recently completed our annual strategic planning session in May, outlining priorities and establishing goals and benchmarks for the year ahead. With our 50th anniversary approaching in 2027, a significant portion of the discussion focused on how to honor our rich history while ensuring the Guild remains positioned for future success. Exciting plans are already underway for the 50th annual convention on April 6-10, 2027.
Board members also expressed concern about the growing number of companies appearing in Google searches that operate outside accepted marketing standards or provide questionable services and repairs. Consumer trust is critical to our profession, and this issue of Sweeping (page 18) includes information on how our industry can respond to fraudulent operators and help educate homeowners.
Networking remains one of the most valuable traditions in our profession. So much knowledge is exchanged over a meal, cup of coffee, or drink with fellow chimney professionals. Before the busy fall season arrives, I encourage you to make time to attend an in-person event. On page 10, you can read about the recent Sweep Away Cancer bike rally, where approximately 45 chimney professionals came together for fellowship, fun, and fundraising to support individuals impacted by cancer.
Summer is the perfect time to refresh, improve skills, and expand knowledge. I encourage you to connect with your regional director or a committee chair and explore ways to share your talents with the industry. As NCSG continues working toward its strategic goals, your ideas, feedback, and involvement are essential. Most committees are actively seeking volunteers, and there are many opportunities to make a meaningful contribution.
Enjoy the rest of your summer, keep expanding your skills, and I hope to see you at an upcoming event! ■
By Debbie Wiedwald, President, National Chimney Sweep Guild
CONGRATULATIONS!
Michael Allen, Quality Chimney & Duct Cleaning Serv.
Bobby Balentine, Raytown Chimney
Ian Beers, Owens Chimney Systems
John Brandt, Double E Masonry
Kurt Collins, New England Chimney Specialists
Josh Connell, Done Right Chimney
Eric Edwards, Ohio Chimney Company
Justin Francis, Chim-Chiminee Sweeps
John George, Tom Cady Chimney Sweep
Patrick Gorham, Done Right Chimney
Andrew Grimes, Batts' Chimney Service
David Hixson, Queen City Sweeps
John Jones, ABC Chimney Sweep
Rob Jorgenson, Northern Lights Chimney and Hearth
Calvin Lopez, Fiddler on the Roof Chimney Service
Wesley Maxfield, Chim Chimney
CONGRATULATIONS!
Marcus McClam, Chim Chimney
Ryan McEwan, Au Gres Fireplace and Chimney Service
Christopher Mooney, Top Hat Chimney Sweeps
Timothy Nelson, Clean Sweeps Chimney Sweeping
Carson Prince, Southern Tier Chimney Sweeps
Aeden Roger, Naperville Chimney Sweeps
Sammuel Ross, Top Hat Chimney Sweeps
Benjamin Schroering, Chim Chimney
Noah Sutton, Environmental Chimney Service
Daecus Vance, Barnhill Chimney Company
Isaac White, Village Chimney and Hearth
Brandon Whitt, Queen City Sweeps
John Zadina, Village Chimney and Hearth
Volunteers Wanted: NFPA 31
The National Chimney Sweep Guild is looking for a volunteer to serve as our representative for the NFPA 31 Standard for the Installation of Oil-Burning Equipment committee. This person will attend Zoom meetings for the creation of the next NFPA 31 edition. Contact Debbie Wiedwald at debbie@blackburnschimney.com if interested or for more information.
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CODES & STANDARDS UPDATE
MNFPA and UL Updates
By Debbie Wiedwald, President, Region 4 Director, and Advocacy Committee Chair, National Chimney Sweep Guild
Many thanks to the National Chimney Sweep Guild's (NCSG) representatives on industry codes and standards committees! Jim Brewer currently serves as representative to NFPA 211 and NFPA 54, and Steven Scally represents NCSG on NFPA 31. Dan Freeman serves as representative to UL 1390 and UL 1391 and as alternate for NFPA 211. Thank you also to Eric Adair, Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association (HPBA) senior manager, codes and standards, for his work and industry updates.
NPFA 211
The 2027 edition of NFPA 211 Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel–Burning Appliances is complete and available for purchase from the NFPA. This updated fire safety standard features important revisions to inspection protocols and chimney connector requirements.
Key Updates of NFPA 211
• Revised Chapter 15: Chapter 15, Inspection of Existing Chimneys, was revised to be more applicable to fireplaces, vents, and solid fuelburning appliances, as these items fall within the scope of NFPA 211, and industry inspection practices also commonly include these items.
• Detailed Guidance on Chimney Connectors: Requirements were edited to clarify how chimney connectors are attached to both appliances and chimneys.
• Comprehensive Inspection Requirements: The standard covers general requirements, types of inspections, and Level I-III inspections.
• Preventative Maintenance: Broad-based safety standards for equipment and system
maintenance, from initial installation to ongoing preventative requirements.
• Supplementary Material: Two annexes serve as resources for explanatory materials and informational references.
NFPA 54
The 2027 edition of the National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54) is now available for preorder as of early June. A major update highlighted on the NFPA 54 webpage restricts plastic pipe venting materials for products of combustion. All plastic venting materials used for Category II, III, and IV gas-burning appliances must now be solely listed to UL 1738, Venting Systems for Gas- Burning Appliances, Categories II, III, and IV.
UL 1390
UL 1390 Standard for Solid Fuel Fireplace Inserts and Hearth-Mounted Stoves for Installation into Masonry Fireplaces is published; however, it is being revised, which is causing delays for listed appliances. Distributors can sell their current products, and retailers can install the hearth products. It is important to install according to manufacturer instructions.
UL 1391
UL 1391 Solid Fuel Fireplace Inserts and HearthMounted Stoves for Installation into Factory-Built Fireplaces has been on hold for confirmation testing. After testing is completed, results will be reviewed by the technical committee and the standard will be either published or revised. Hearth products can then be developed. ■
Rallying for a Cause
Sweep Away Cancer Rally breaks records at the Tail
By Mark Stoner, Co-Founder, Sweep Away Cancer
Photography by Jonathan Sanders, FutureNow Marketing
of the Dragon
Against the stunning backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, this year’s Sweep Away Cancer Rally at the Tail of the Dragon became our biggest and most successful event to date. With a record turnout, perfect weather, and the largest amount ever raised during the rally, the day was a powerful reminder of what can happen when our industry and friends unite for a common cause.
Founded in 2012, Sweep Away Cancer supports members of the chimney and hearth community and their families who are facing the financial and emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis. Through the generosity of countless donors, volunteers, and sponsors, the organization has raised nearly $500,000 since its inception, providing much-needed assistance and hope to those who need it most.
This year’s rally showcased an incredible variety of vehicles, with participants arriving on motorcycles of every style, high-performance sports cars, classic antique trucks, and custom-built rides. Together we cruised some of the most scenic roads in America, including the legendary Tail of the Dragon, sharing a passion for the open road while supporting an even greater mission.
Mother Nature couldn’t have been more cooperative. Bright blue skies, comfortable temperatures, and breathtaking mountain views created an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. The camaraderie, fellowship, and generosity displayed throughout the day reflected the very heart of the chimney sweep community.
The record-breaking funds raised during this year’s rally will continue to help individuals and families navigate one of life’s most difficult journeys. Every dollar represents compassion, encouragement, and a commitment to stand beside those battling cancer.
A special thank you goes to our incredible sponsors whose generosity helped make this event possible: National Chimney, Lindemann Chimney Supply, Copperfield, Rush Profits, Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), Ashbusters, Four Winds Chimney, Sea Coast Sweep, Inferno Coatings, and SureFire Training Academy. Your continued support allows Sweep Away Cancer to expand its reach and impact year after year.
Most importantly, thank you to every rider, driver, volunteer, donor, and member of the chimney sweeping community who participated. Your support has helped build an organization that has raised nearly half a million dollars since 2012 and has touched countless lives along the way.
As the engines went silent and the day came to a close, everyone left knowing they had been part of something much bigger than a ride. Together, we celebrated friendship, generosity, and the unwavering spirit of a community committed to making a difference—one mile and one family at a time.
We invite everyone to join us for next year’s Sweep Away Cancer Rally on June 18-19, 2027. Whether you ride a motorcycle, drive a sports car, bring an antique truck, or simply want to support an incredible cause, you’ll be welcomed as part of our family. Come experience the beauty of the mountains, the fellowship of our community, and help us continue our mission of supporting families affected by cancer. Together, we can make next year even bigger and continue sweeping away cancer, one mile at a time. ■
The Cap Challenge
By Deidre Gilbert, Administrative Assistant, Doctor Flue, Inc.
AAs a fireplace specialist, we often book service calls based on customer concerns, whether it be a “dirty fireplace” or a “leaky chimney.” After the initial call is booked, we send our technicians out at a near-break-even rate after operating costs. Understanding that these types of appointments are an opportunity, we anticipate that a certain percentage of these calls will lead to repairs, upgrades, or additional sweeping services.
At Doctor Flue, we have started a challenge to make lead technicians and their apprentices more aware of opportunities for during-service upsells. The challenge encourages technicians to provide additional value to homeowners and their properties while also helping our technicians and company generate revenue. It incentivizes our technicians to go above and beyond in their thorough evaluations and inspections.
The challenge works by tracking service appointment add ons—like sweeps, chimney caps, and top mount dampers— and totaling them by service truck. The apprentice and lead technician are tracked together as a team, which allows them to motivate and push each other to look around for any possible
needs for our clients. At the end of each quarter, we reward the winning team with Amazon gift cards. Our technicians are also paid hourly plus commission, so they continue to earn their usual commission on additional services. This challenge reinforces that every appointment can be viewed as an opporutnity for a daily, weekly, and monthly revenue increase—not just a simple sweep or service. It helps build positive rapport between homeowner and technician while aligning the property's needs with the company's goals. Overall, the challenge is designed to strengthen technicians' and apprentices' commitment to each home and reward them accordingly.
By utilizing this incentive, the challenge helps homeowners better understand their property's needs, strengthens technicians' skills, and benefits the company as a whole.
A company is only as good as its staff and their clientele. The challenge reinforces the positive relationships that can be built from trust, honesty, and personability, which can help build a stronger, more successful company. ■
Photo courtesy of Lords Chimney
MEMBERSHIP UPDATE
CHelp Customers Know Who To Trust Before They Hire
By Sydney Kaizer, Director of Marketing and Communications, National Chimney Sweep Guild
Chimney scams are not new, but the way homeowners find chimney companies has changed. Today, many customers begin their search online through Google Maps, social media, ads, reviews, or lead-generation websites. Often, that path leads them to a reputable local company. Sometimes, it creates confusion about who the customer is contacting and what kind of service they should expect.
That is where National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) members have an important opportunity. You know what professional chimney service should look like: proper training, thorough documentation, and clear communication. Most homeowners do not have that knowledge, and they may not know what questions to ask.
To help our members educate customers, NCSG has created free, ready-to-share homeowner resources. The toolkit includes customizable email templates, social media graphics, and messaging members can use when explaining what homeowners should look for when choosing a chimney professional.
When homeowners understand what a professional process looks like, they are better prepared to make informed decisions. They are more likely to ask questions, compare companies thoughtfully, and recognize the value of working with a company that
invests in training, communication, and the longterm safety of their home.
This is also an opportunity to remind customers what NCSG membership represents. In a crowded marketplace, membership connects your company to a national community of chimney professionals committed to education, safety, and better business practices.
Questions Homeowners Can Ask Before Hiring
• What company will actually perform the work?
• What is included in the service?
• Will I receive photos, written findings, or a written estimate?
• What training or credentials does the company or technician have?
• Can the company explain why a repair is recommended?
• Do I have time to review information before approving major work?
A reputable chimney professional should be willing to communicate clearly, explain the process, and help the customer understand the work being recommended. ■
Access the Free Member Toolkit
Download all resources in the Chimney Pro Center at ncsg.org
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INSURED & INFORMED
UWhy Proper Subcontractor Insurance Matters for Chimney Sweeps
By Gordon Sheucraft, Risk Advisor, SouthPoint Risk
Using subcontractors can help chimney sweep and furnace professionals take on more work, respond faster during busy seasons, and expand services without adding full-time staff. But when those subcontractors are not properly insured, the convenience can quickly turn into financial and legal exposure. For members of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG), this is a risk that deserves serious attention.
A contractor is often responsible for the work performed under their name, even when that work is completed by someone else. If a subcontractor causes property damage, injures a homeowner, or makes a costly mistake on a job, the primary contractor may still be pulled into the claim. Without proper insurance in place, the contractor may have to pay for repairs, defense costs, or settlements out of pocket. A simple mistake on a roof, in a firebox, or while handling equipment can become a major business problem.
One of the biggest concerns is general liability exposure. Chimney work and furnace-related services often involve ladders, roofs, combustion systems, soot, dust, and delicate home structures. If a subcontractor damages a chimney crown, cracks tile, dents siding, or causes smoke or fire damage, the claim may come back to the company that hired them. Even if the subcontractor is at fault, the homeowner will usually look to the company they hired first. That means the burden of proving responsibility and sorting out coverage can fall on the primary contractor.
Workers’ compensation is another issue. If a subcontractor is misclassified or not truly operating as an independent insured business, an injury on the job can create confusion and potential liability. A fall from a roof, a back injury from lifting equipment,
or a burn during furnace service can lead to serious claims. If the subcontractor does not carry their own coverage, the contractor may face arguments that the worker should have been covered under their policy or treated as an employee. There is also the problem of incomplete or false paperwork. Some contractors assume a subcontractor is insured because they say they are, but they never verify a current certificate of insurance. Others rely on expired documents or fail to check whether the subcontractor’s coverage matches the work being performed. A policy that excludes chimney work, furnace service, or roofing-related operations may not protect the subcontractor at all. In that case, the contractor may have hired someone who appears insured on paper but is actually uninsured for the job.
The best protection starts before the work begins. Contractors should require valid certificates of insurance, confirm general liability and workers’ compensation coverage, and make sure the policy limits are appropriate for the type of work being performed. They should also keep records of every subcontractor’s insurance and review those documents regularly. If a subcontractor is performing higher-risk work, the contractor should make sure contracts clearly state insurance requirements and indemnification responsibilities. For chimney sweep and furnace contractors, subcontractors can be a smart part of the business model. But only when they are properly vetted and insured. The time spent checking coverage is small compared with the cost of a claim, a lawsuit, or a damaged reputation. In this industry, good risk management is not just smart business—it is part of protecting the customer, the crew, and the company’s future. ■
MARKETING UPDATE
GWhat Google's 2026 Changes Mean for Your Business
By Taylor Hill and Carter Harkins, FutureNow Marketing
Google has been busy in 2026. If you own a home service company, you don't need every technical detail—you need the big picture. The way homeowners find and choose companies is changing fast.
A Quick Overview
For years, the game was simple. Show up high on Google. Get good reviews. Run some ads. Make the phone ring.
That still matters. But Google is no longer just a list of websites. It's becoming an AI-powered answer machine that wants to answer more questions itself, guide decisions, and decide which businesses get seen.
This isn't something to panic over. But it is something to pay attention to. The companies that adapt will have an edge. The ones that ignore it may eventually wonder why the phone got quiet.
Google Search Is Changing
Google is leaning hard into AI-powered search. That means a homeowner may not just type "chimney sweep near me" and scroll through a list of links like they used to.
Instead, they might ask something like, "Who's the best company near me to inspect my fireplace before winter?" Google's AI may summarize the answer, compare options, and recommend what to do next—all without the homeowner clicking on a single website.
What does that mean for you? You're not just trying to rank for a keyword anymore. You're trying to make your business easy for Google to understand and easy for a homeowner to trust.
That means: clear services, a clear service area, strong reviews, real photos of your work, a website that answers common customer questions, and an accurate, active Google Business Profile.
Reviews Still Matter—But Ask the Right Way
This one matters for everyone on your team— technicians, dispatchers, CSRs, and owners.
Google's review policy warns businesses not to coach customers on what to say in a review. That includes asking them to name a specific staff member.
So if a technician says, "Please mention me by name in your review," that's a problem. If your follow-up text says, "Tell us how Jake did today," that may also create risk. The issue isn't a customer mentioning Jake on their own—it's your company steering the review.
The safe ask is simple: "Would you be willing to share your honest experience with our company on Google?"
Reviews are still one of the biggest trust signals in local search. But your team needs to ask the right way. No incentives. No asking for five stars. No scripting. No asking customers to name the tech. Just honest feedback.
Google's Updates Can Shake Up Rankings
Google has already rolled out major search updates in 2026. These can affect which companies show up in search results and which shortcuts stop working (if you're using shortcuts).
If your website has a bunch of pages that all say the same thing with a different city name swapped in, it may be working today. But don't be surprised if it stops working.
Google wants to reward businesses that are real, helpful, and trustworthy. That means content that sounds like it came from people who actually know the trade—common problems, before-and-after photos, safety tips, what happens during a service call, and real answers to customer questions.
One Small Thing Going Away
For years, some businesses used a feature that allowed extra FAQ dropdowns to appear directly in Google search results. Google has removed that.
It doesn't mean FAQs are useless—they still help customers and help Google understand your services. But if someone is selling that as a secret weapon for your rankings, just know it's not what it used to be.
Google Ads Are Getting More Automated
Google is moving ad campaigns toward more AIdriven, automated tools. For business owners, this means paid search is becoming less about handpicking every keyword and more about feeding Google the right information.
That said, more automation doesn't mean you can set it and forget it. Your landing pages, call tracking, and lead quality data matter more than ever.
Here's why: if Google only knows that a campaign produced a phone call, it'll try to get you more phone calls. But not all calls are good leads. Some are price shoppers, some are outside your service area, and some are junk. The better data you give Google, the better it performs for you.
The BASICS STILL MATTER
Stop Measuring Marketing by Leads Alone
A lead is not the same as a customer. A phone call is not the same as a booked job. A form fill is not the same as revenue.
As Google becomes more automated, the quality of your tracking matters more. You need to know where leads came from, which ones booked, and which ones turned into actual revenue.
That means tracking website leads, Google Business Profile calls, Google Ads, referral sources, and dedicated phone numbers used on trucks, yard signs, direct mail, or billboards.
Without that, you're guessing. And guessing isn't a marketing strategy—it's gambling with your budget.
In a Nutshell
Google is changing from a search engine into a decision engine. It's using AI to answer more questions, automate more ad decisions, and judge businesses using more signals than ever before. You don't need to chase every new thing. But you do need to get the basics right.
Keep your Google Business Profile accurate. Ask for reviews the right way. Build useful website content. Show real proof of your work. Track leads all the way to revenue. Make sure your ads are feeding Google good data. And stop relying on tactics that worked five years ago.
Google keeps moving the goalposts. Smart business owners will move with them. ■
Big changes are underway at Wood Energy Technology Transfer (WETT), Canada’s wood-burning systems training and certification organization. In the August issue, Jonathan Erdman, NCSG director of education, will share what he saw during WETT's annual meeting in Winnepeg, from new technology (hello, virtual reality!) and expanded training to a renewed commitment to collaboration across the border.
Stay tuned for a closer look at what could be next for WETT and Canada's chimney professionals.
Sand
COACH'S CORNER
TStrong Leaders Tremble
By Phillip Stoller, President and CEO, SaverSystems
The sand was already cold by the time the sun vanished behind the Judean hills, but the sweat on my back was freezing.
I have hands that know things. They know the grain of sycamore wood. They know how to seat a joint so tight that you can’t slide a blade of grass between the timbers. They know the weight of a hammer and the bite of a saw. My hands are rough, scarred, and capable.
But as I gripped the lead rope of the donkey that night, my hands were shaking so badly I had to wrap the leather around my wrist just to keep a grip.
I was a craftsman. I fixed chairs. I made tables for families to eat on. I was not a soldier, and I was certainly not a navigator.
And yet, here I was, walking into the pitch black of the desert, fleeing a King who had an entire army at his disposal.
The dream had been terrifyingly clear. “Get up,” the angel had said, “Take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt.”
Herod. The name alone made the air feel thin. Herod was iron. He was stone. He was the architect of fortresses and the executioner of his own sons. He was a man who held power the way a miser holds gold: with a clenched fist that crushes anything trying to pry it open.
I looked back over my shoulder at the sleeping shape of Bethlehem. Somewhere back there, the soldiers were waking up. Somewhere back there, steel was being sharpened.
The inadequacy hit me like a physical blow to the stomach. It wasn't just fear; it was the shame of inadequacy. Who am I to do this?
I looked up at the night sky and asked out loud, “God, if you wanted to save a King, why did you choose a carpenter?”
“You should have chosen a soldier or a diplomat who speaks Egyptian. You could have at least chosen a man with a map!”
I had no map. I had a few coins, a skin of water, and the weight of responsibility that crowded out all the rest.
Every shadow looked like a Roman Sentinel. Every shifting rock sounded like a soldier’s boot. My heart hammered against my ribs like a bird trapped in a box. I wanted to stop. I wanted to wake Mary up and tell her I couldn't do it, that I was the wrong man, that I was going to get us all killed.
But then, the wind shifted. The baby stirred. A small, muffled cry rose from the bundle in Mary's arms. I stepped close to the animal and peeled back the corner of the blanket. He was there. Tiny. Fragile. Dependent.
In that moment, the terror didn't leave, but something else arrived to sit beside it. I realized that Herod’s power was based on what he could take. But this child... this child was about what could be given.
I looked at my shaking hands. They weren't weapons. But they were made to carry.
I didn't need to be a General to fight Herod. I didn't need to be a King to outmaneuver him. I just needed to be a Husband and Father. I just needed to trust. I just needed the strength to take the next “right-hard” step forward.
So, I wrapped the rope tighter around my wrist. I swallowed the lump of panic in my throat. I turned
my back on the safety of home and stepped toward the nothingness of the desert.
I might have been trembling. But I could still take one more step through the wilderness.
The Strength Found in Inadequacy
There is a myth in leadership that courage is the absence of fear. We like to imagine that the people bold enough to change the world are the ones who stride confidently into the future, clutching a detailed roadmap of how to shape the future, and a jaunty disregard for the threats tendered by those who would oppose them.
Joseph’s story tells us something different. It reminds us that some of the most unseen and yet pivotal people in the broader story of humanity practiced courage as a gritty, self-sacrificial discipline, not an effortless default state.
If you are leading a family, a team, or a business today, and you feel like an imposter, I have good news for you: your trembling is not disqualification. In fact, it might be your greatest credential.
The Muscle of Courage
We often assume that if our hands are shaking, it means we are weak. But physically, a muscle trembles when it is under maximum tension. It trembles when it is lifting a weight that requires every ounce of its capacity. If you aren't trembling, you are not carrying as much as you are able.
Modern neuroscience actually proves this exact concept. Neurobiologists studying human resilience have identified a specific region in the brain called the anterior midcingulate cortex. It acts as the biological seat of courage and willpower. The remarkable thing about this specific part of the brain is how it develops. It does not activate when we are comfortable, and it does not engage when we are performing tasks we enjoy. It only engages—and physically grows—when we experience intense fear, resistance, or the overwhelming desire to quit but choose to push forward anyway.
If you wait until you feel steady to take action, that biological muscle shrinks. Courage literally requires the presence of fear to grow.
Herod didn't tremble. He slept soundly in his palace because he lived for himself. He had nothing to lose but his own comfort. Joseph trembled because he was carrying the future of the world through the wilderness on a donkey. He trembled because he understood the stakes. He trembled because he loved the ones he led through the desert more than he loved his own safety. His heart’s desire to protect the ones he loved warred against his body’s instinct
for self-preservation. And in the heat of that battle, even though his body was shaking, his resolve to live true to what mattered most did not yield any ground to the tidal forces of fear attacking him. Courage is not having steady hands. Courage is the ability to move forward even when you are shaking.
Forging Through the Wilderness
In your life right now, you too might be forging your way through the wilderness. If you are facing a broken relationship, a diagnosis, an addiction, or a decision that feels too big for your shoulders, that is a wilderness. When the phone is quieter than you want it to be, when the schedule has more gaps than you’re used to, or when your crew is looking to you for confidence and you are unsure of how you are going to make payroll, that is a wilderness.
If you tremble under the awesome weight of responsibility one has when people trust their families’ financial security into a leader’s capability to deliver a weekly paycheck, do not sell yourself short or see that as evidence that you are an imposter. That trembling is evidence of your willingness to stand firm under the load. It is a sign of the strength of your heart’s conviction to fight for the people you love despite your body’s desire to seek comfort and safety.
In the end, the only real difference between a coward and a strong leader is that the coward flees for safety and then waits for the trembling to stop before they take the next step.
The strong leader wraps the rope around their wrist and takes the next step anyway.
Hope and Challenge
The Hope
You do not need to feel completely steady to be qualified to lead. Feelings of inadequacy and fear are not signs of weakness; they are biological proof that you are stretching your capacity for the sake of the people relying on you.
The Challenge
The next time you face a wilderness season and feel your hands start to shake, do not retreat to safety. Acknowledge the weight you are carrying, wrap the rope a little tighter around your wrist, and take the very next right-hand step. Allow the trembling to build your courage. ■
UPCOMING EVENTS
CSR 360°
July 15-16, 2026 | Virtual (Google Meet)
CSR 360° is a 2-day, virtual class for customer service representatives in the home service industry. Learn how to drive growth, guide calls with confidence, ask the right questions to qualify work, and turn more of the right calls into booked jobs.
NYSCSG 34th Annual Summer Workshop
July 24-26, 2026 | Middle Grove, NY
Recharge your spirit and mind at the 34th Annual New York State Chimney Sweep Guild. Fun for the entire family—bring spouses and kids for food, fire, fun, and friendship!
CSR 360°
August 13-14, 2026 | Virtual (Google Meet)
CSR 360° is a 2-day, virtual class for customer service representatives in the home service industry. Learn how to drive growth, guide calls with confidence, ask the right questions to qualify work, and turn more of the right calls into booked jobs.
Office Manager Essentials
August 19-20, 2026 | Virtual (Google Meet)
Office managers are expected to keep everything running, but rarely get clear training on how to lead the office, track performance, or create consistency. This class will help office managers step into true operational leadership.
REGIONAL UPDATES
REGION 2
Jonathan Cross Region 2 Director
RRegion 2 is staying busy.
The Pennsylvania Guild of Professional Chimney Sweeps completed its 30th Annual Charity Workshop at the Resica Falls Boy Scout Camp, providing approximately $75,000+ in necessary chimney repairs. Thank you to all of our volunteers and vendors who contributed time and/or product to make this event happen.
On June 25-26, the PA Guild also hosted a Ropes Access Training class taught by Rooftop Safety USA's Jonathan Erdman in Central City, PA. Scammers have been as busy as ever in our region. Rarely does a day pass where I don’t see one of the notorious out-of-state “sweeps” driving down the road with six liner coils on top of their ladders, or that I am bombarded with AI-generated ads on social media for bogus companies. I think it is more important than ever right now that chimney professionals are involved in networking with other companies, strengthening our national and regional guilds, and creating public awareness.
I recently visited Iowa for my first National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) strategic planning and board meeting back in May. It was a very productive meeting, and I’m thrilled to be working with the other board members and executive team. We are lucky to have such a great group of people working together to protect and cultivate our industry.
Wishing you all a safe and productive summer! ■
REGION 3
Drew Stein Region 3 Director
AAs we move into our summer season across Region 3, I continue to be encouraged by the professionalism, dedication, and craftsmanship demonstrated by chimney and venting professionals throughout our region. Our members continue to set a high standard for service and safety.
At the recent National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) Board of Directors meeting in May, one theme stood out above all others: strengthening the value of membership and ensuring the Guild remains focused on serving the needs of professionals in the field. Discussions centered around membership growth, industry advocacy, education, and creating a stronger pipeline for future leaders within our organization.
As codes evolve, technology advances, and consumer expectations continue to rise, our industry faces both challenges and opportunities. Region 3 is uniquely positioned to lead these conversations. Our area includes some of the fastest-growing markets in the country, creating tremendous opportunities for professional chimney and venting companies that prioritize education, certification, and excellence.
Most importantly, I encourage every member to get involved. Attend events, participate in Guild discussions, and reach out to fellow professionals. The relationships we build today strengthen our businesses tomorrow and help ensure a bright future for our industry. ■
NEW MEMBERS
2026-2027 Board of Directors
President; Region 4 Director
Debbie Wiedwald Blackburn’s Chimney Sweeps debbie@blackburnschimney.com
Vice President; At-Large Director
Gary Smalling Smalling Masonry gary.smalling@smallingmasonry.com
Treasurer; Region 1 Director
Robby Murphy
Hudson Valley Chimney Service rmurphy@hudsonvalleychimney.com
Secretary; Region 3 Director
Drew Stein Chimspector drew@chimspector.com
Region 2 Director
Jonathan Cross
D.J. Cross/Cross Break Sheet Metal jon@djcrossinc.com
Region 5 Director
Roland Perez
AAA Home Services and Aaron's Chimney Services roland@myaaahomeservices.com
Region 6 Director
Michaele Dempsey Professional Chimney Sweep prochimneymichaele@gmail.com
At-Large Director
Cory McGill Done Right Chimney cory@donerightchimney.com
At-Large Director
Brett Conklin Chimney Monkey brett@chimneymonkey.com
At-Large Director
Lee Roff
Lords Chimney leeroff@lordschimney.com
At-Large Supplier Representative
Brian Barclay KW DRAFT brianb@rmmanifold.com
Advocacy
Debbie Wiedwald
Blackburn’s Chimney Sweeps
Bylaws
Brett Conklin
Chimney Monkey
Certification
Steve Sobczak
Total Chimney Care
Education
Gary Smalling
Smalling Masonry
Cory McGill
Done Right Chimney
2026-2027 Committee Chairs
Ethics
Roland Perez AAA Home Services
Events
Brian Barclay KW DRAFT
Governance
Drew Stein Chimspector
Marketing
Lee Roff
Lords Chimney
Brett Conklin
Chimney Monkey
Membership
Michaele Dempsey Professional Chimney Sweep
NFPA 211; NFPA 54
Jim Brewer
SureFire Training Academy
NFPA 31; Tech. Advisory Council
Steve Scally
Fireside Sweeps
UL 1390; UL 1391
Dan Freeman
Freeman Fire
National Chimney Sweep Guild
1255 SW Prairie Trail Parkway
Ankeny, Iowa 50023-7068
