The Cost of Doing Business (Weston Zimmerman)

Working hard doesn't guarantee profits. Being talented doesn't guarantee you'll make it.

This is why knowing your numbers is so critically important. Listen in to the "painful to talk about" reality of the grind of Jeremy and his brothers at Cable Bros Outdoors.

Good news is, they now know their numbers and are well on the path to recovery. Follow their journey at https://instagram.com/cablebrosoutdoors?igshid=ZmRlMzRkMDU=

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Trey Chilcoat rode quite the roller coaster with his company, going from 4 guys one season to 12 guys, and back to 4 guys the third season.

When he went back to the 4 crew size, his revenue per man went from $110k per man per year to $350k per man.

We did a deep dive into the lessons learned during that experience.

Give Trey a follow at 

 and check out his website at 

I got to sit down with Trevor Lott from Elevated Pines in Salt Lake Utah. He gave us an overview of how he got started in this industry, and how he eventually took over the business from his dad.

He gave us his take on the battle of maintaining both production efficiency without sacrificing quality.

He wrapped up by giving us his take on what it's like onboarding with SynkedUP.

Give Trevor a follow!
https://www.instagram.com/elevated_pines

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Zach Hinkle's story of his journey in business is worth listening to. He went through the experience of starting mowing lawns, growing top-line revenue to over $4 million, and realizing he didn't know what he was actually making on that. Then decided to downsize, track his numbers, focus on profit instead of top-line revenue, and build a solid team around a set of Core Values, and standard processes as much as possible to make training of new employees, tracking, and production better.

Zach's story is an excellent reminder that it's not about the top-line revenue. It's the bottom line profit. Our chat dives into the mistakes they made, as well as what they do now to succeed at the right size.

You can find Zach on Instagram here: https://instagram.com/hinklehardscapes?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

And his website here: https://www.hinklehardscapes.com/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

 or DM me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/synkedup/?hl=en

John Minahan from Blackdog Stone & Landscape in Park City UT was one of the first business owners to hop on board with SynkedUP. I got to interview him and pick his brain on what he saw in SynkedUP, and why he chose to jump on board with such an early-stage company.

We got into interesting discussions on building systems and processes as his business grew.

Give John a follow!
https://www.instagram.com/blackdog_stone_landscape

Once you dial in your numbers, the next challenge to overcome is streamlining your sales process. It’s easy to waste time and frustrate potential clients if your sales process isn’t dialed to produce results.

The three of us pick apart the different strategies and tactics people use, and talk about what’s worked for us.

Follow Evan Newcombe with Pride Hardscape at 

Nick Conley 

Jon Williams started his outdoor living business 2 seasons ago and very quickly cracked the $1 million dollar revenue milestone. This year he's added 7 people to their team, investing in equipment, and getting the infrastructure of the business established.

The biggest factor that allowed him to achieve this so quickly was his relentless focus on getting their numbers dialed in correctly from the start. So often entrepreneurs start out on business and don't fully realize just how much running business costs, and then what they THOUGHT was going to be their profit, gets wiped out by paying for all those overhead expenses.

Not Jon. Be like Jon and build a budget and get your numbers dialed in. Let's be profitable in 2023!

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Greg and his sons run a family business in the Pittsburgh area. Greg has been through the "war" of business. Dealt with the sting of failure and defeat. But through humility, and being willing to change, has risen to be a glowing example of what working smarter, not harder looks like.
Today his sons Ryan and Cody are in charge. They take pride in their operation. Their story truly is inspiring.

Give them a follow on Instagram at https://instagram.com/toyslandscape?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

And check out their website at: 

If dialing in your numbers is the difference between breaking even and making 10+% net profit, focusing on your efficiency can easily produce just as much juice for the squeeze.

Listen in as Jonathan Guinipero shares his experience from his own company Stateline Landscaping from MA, as well as his observations from visiting Tussey Landscaping.

Give Jonathan a follow on IG 

And check out his website: 

Brian Schmauder took over the company he worked for during the shutdown.

We unpacked that journey and the challenges he had to overcome transitioning from being an employee to an owner.

He's retained 100% of his employees this year as well. So something is going well!

Give Brian a follow at: 

Chris Reisenberg from Cincinnati Ohio learned the ropes of customer service and property maintenance at a large company. When the company got sold, and he felt inhibited in doing his best work for customers, he decided to take the plunge and go into business for himself.

Listen in and follow the journey on this episode!

Give Chris and his team a follow at:

https://www.reisenlawn.com/

This week I sit down with Joel Lattimer, a Christian entrepreneur who has built a thriving outdoor living and water features business with his brother. As the co-founder of Lattimer Outdoor Living and Waterscapes, Joel seamlessly integrates his faith-based values with his passion for exceptional craftsmanship.

This commitment to doing business with integrity has earned Lattimer Outdoor Living a reputation for quality work and exceptional customer service.
When not overseeing design-build projects, Joel enjoys spending quality time with his family - a calling that further reinforces his belief that faith and family are the true foundations for success, both in life and in business.

As an influential voice in the contracting industry, Joel's story serves as a testament to the power of leading with purpose and keeping one's spiritual principles at the forefront.

Connect with Joel: https://www.instagram.com/lattimerinc/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

No one ever blamed father and son team Anthony Mann and Anthony Hermann-Mann of being lazy. Man! The grass doesn't grow under these boys' feet.

Anthony the father is a 3rd generation mason with roots in Italy, and is now working on nurturing Anthony the son up in the business, teaching not only the craft, but also the leadership and management skills it takes to run a successful business.

Give them a follow! https://www.instagram.com/anthonygrouphardscapes

https://www.anthonygrouphardscapes.com/

Isaac Martin from Cheyenne Wyoming talks about his experience in building confidence when quoting jobs, and being a "yes" man; meaning not succumbing to every whim from the client's requests. The root of this confidence stems from knowing your numbers, so you know your limits and know what you can or can't do.

Listen to Isaac's take on his journey in this regard, and how he's growing his business in a single city market.

Follow Isaac or reach out to him on Instagram at https://instagram.com/cml_wy?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

And check out his website at Care More Lawn | #1 Outdoor Landscaping Hardscaping Cheyenne Wyoming

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Description: The goal of being in business is to have the business serve YOU and help you achieve your goals in life. But so many times, as business owners we get that switched. The business owns us instead. We're a slave to it.

Listen to Josh Sutton's story, all the mistakes along the way, but not only the mistakes, but how he's been able to overcome the challenges by taking specific actions.

This is what business is about. Thriving. (Not surviving)

Check out Josh here:

@suttonoutdoorllc

https://www.suttonoutdoor.com/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software |

 or DM me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/synkedup/?hl=en

Nikita's story is remarkable to me. There's a lot that happens between mowing lawns as a side gig to doing high-end pool projects. And Nikita did it very quickly. 3 years. I'm impressed.

Listen in as I pick his brain on how he did it that quickly, and what the journey looked like. And how he developed as a leader.

Give Nikita and Outdoor Influence a follow on Instagram https://instagram.com/oidesignbuild?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

https://www.outdoorinfluencelandscaping.com/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Dan Preston is a talented craftsman from Wisconsin and started working with SynkedUP last year, we have a real conversation about the struggles and pitfalls we all deal with as owner-operators in the landscape and hardscape industry.

Dan is a true artist, doing some of the best work in the country. Give him a follow:

Alex Bulow was a master craftsman, no doubt about it. He spent many years in the industry as an employee, but then, in spite of his reluctance, ended up owning his own business.

We talk about that journey, and what it takes to succeed. And owning a business, instead of the business owning you.

Follow Inca Stone at 

I caught up with Luke Eggebraaten, founder of Phaser Marketing, and picked his brain on what the 3 phases of marketing look like for landscape and excavation companies.

Spoiler alert, some of the most powerful things you can do are free. All they require is "getting it done". (Which of course requires discipline or a process)

Give Luke a follow at 

I connected with John Sheppard from Southern Cross Outdoors at the Pool and Spa Expo in Las Vegas, which was great because I got to pick his brain on what was going on in his business in his absence.

Give him a follow here: https://instagram.com/southerncrosscompany?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

https://southerncrossga.com/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Steve Kidwell from Ohio has been laser-focused on evolving his business and optimizing for his vision of the type of business he wants to build.

...and he was a hardscape and pool company... that stopped doing hardscaping.

Listen in for Steve's line of thinking and why he did that.

Steve and his team have built an incredible machine. Last year they did multi million revenue with a 3 man team for an incredible revenue per employee!

Give Steve a follow: 

Seth Wharton from Get Mowtivated and Weston Zimmerman discuss the 2 different business models of subcontractors vs building your own team. The pros and cons, and the "swirling pot of catch 22s" as Seth said. 

Listen in, and give Seth and his team a follow at 

 and 

Sam Nelson runs a landscape company in Castle Rock CO. He started out like most in this industry, mowing lawns, then started doing patios, and trying to be profitable doing it.

A big part of growing successfully is hiring the right people. I was impressed with Sam's story of his success with hiring the right people in this tough labor market.

I also just finished the Compound Effect book Sam talked about, and it's 100% worth reading.

You can find Sam at https://www.nelsonlawnscapes.com and at https://instagram.com/nelson_lawnscapes?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= on Instagram

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Description: What is the best size of business to be? That answer is different for every person. It comes down to your own goals, and what you want out of business. Some may pursue a $5-10 million business with multiple crews and a fully rounded staff. Others may get the best fulfillment out of a 3-5 man crew, million dollar business.

Today we're talking with Kyle Deere from Atlas Outdoor in Kansas City MO, and talking about his journey to finding that sweet spot for him and his team. Listen to his experiences and takeaways to help you form your own vision for the ideal size of business to be.

Check out Kyle and his business online at Kansas City Hardscapes, Landscaping and Paver Patios | Atlas Lanscape and https://www.instagram.com/atlas_landscape_kc/?hl=en

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software |

 or DM me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/synkedup/?hl=en

Today I'm with Jason Gwaltney of Gwaltney Landscaping in North Carolina. We had a fantastic discussion on his business journey, and how he decided to leave his job and strike out on his own. .... And all the challenges that come with that. Second guessing yourself on pricing, hustling to pay the bills, getting dependable help, on and on.

Give Jason a follow on Instagram! He's building some awesome water features!

Instagram (@gwaltneylandscaping_llc)

Home | Gwaltney Landscaping

This week on the podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Justin Laughter, the owner of Laughter Family Hardscapes in Asheville, North Carolina. Justin’s built a thriving hardscape design and construction business by staying laser-focused on delivering real value to his clients, rather than just building what they want.

Justin shares his design-first approach ensuring his clients get outdoor living spaces that truly meet their needs and lifestyle, not just the latest trends.

Justin's journey has been marked by challenges and successes, but his commitment to his craft, his employees, and his clients has been the driving force behind Laughter Family Hardscapes' continued growth.

Tune in to hear Justin's insights on building a values-driven business, hiring and retaining top talent, and creating exceptional experiences for every client.

https://www.instagram.com/laughterfamilyhardscapes1/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

In this 1st episode of The Cost of Doing Business podcast, we learn the behind-the-scenes journey of Donas Outdoor Living. Mike Donas took the company from a side gig to a profitable outdoor living company.

Ever wondered whether you should quit doing maintenance and focus only on installs? Listen in to Mike's thoughts on how they did it and his takeaways from making that decision.

Check out Mike's website here: https://donasoutdoorliving.com/

Landscapes & Outdoor Living Spaces in McMurray, Canonsburg, & Venetia, PA Area | M.J. Donas Landscaping

And his Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/mjdonaslandscaping/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software |

 or DM me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/synkedup/?hl=en

Philip from Summit View Landscaping drops some gold nuggets, hidden throughout the casual conversation, as I pick his brain about his business journey. "Why do one line of work for half the price per man hour when you can sell that same man hour for twice the money?"

There's more. Give it a listen.

Give Philip a follow here SummitView Landscape & Design (@summitviewlandscape)

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Sean Bartz is the epitome of a hustler and grinder that cracks through the owner/operator bottleneck, builds a team that is doing what he used to do (the sales, production, and admin work aren't all bottlenecked in his head) AND is doing so profitably.

That's the power of knowing your numbers.

We discuss what it takes to build systems and processes, and get your mindset in the right place to successfully grow a team and business that doesn't put you in the entrepreneurial prison.

Catch up with Sean on his socials

https://instagram.com/bartzlandscaping?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Landscaping, Hardscaping, Pool & Spa Installation Services | Bartz Landscaping

here's the Extreme Ownership book we talked about Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win (New Edition)

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

In this episode of The Cost of Doing Business, we sit down with Mike Schellhaas, owner of Schellhaas Landscape Construction, to unpack what it really takes to grow a hardscaping business without bleeding profits. Mike shares his journey from pen-and-paper estimates to leveraging technology, the hard lessons along the way, and why knowing your numbers is critical for your success.

If you’ve ever wondered how to break out of the “more work, same profit” trap, this one’s for you!

@schellhaaslandscapeconst

Jon Valenta is just one of those disciplined, price-driven guys who have built a beautiful 3 man company, ...and is closing 10 out of 10 proposals. Dude, that even blew my mind. Listen in to hear how he does it.

Jon shares his proposal process more in-depth at the Contractor Summit 2024 in Dayton Ohio!

Give Jon a follow at:

Today I get to hang out with Rusty Metsker from Three Trails in Kansas City.
We discussed the most efficient model for structuring crews and setting crews up for success.
Give Rusty and his team a follow at https://www.instagram.com/threetrails

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

This week we’re in Bend, Oregon with our friend and customer Kyle from @‌pacificpinelandscape. We dive into the challenges of building a strong team as a small business owner. Kyle and I discuss the importance of assuming the best intentions when employees make mistakes, rather than taking a blaming approach. This advice was applied in my own life during my Tussey Landscaping days from lessons I learned reading a book called “Extreme Ownership” - where the idea of having to take responsibility for your team’s mistakes was learned.

We go on to share practical tips on fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement to develop loyal, high performing employees. If you’re looking to strengthen your team and drive sustainable growth, give it a listen.

You can find Kyle here: @‌pacificpinelandscape

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

This week, we sit down with Kevin Trobaugh, a landscape entrepreneur, to talk about his journey from solo operator to building a thriving, scalable business. We dive into the challenges he faced, like balancing job site demands with networking opportunities, and how he shifted his mindset to focus on empowering his team rather than just chasing top-line growth. Kevin shares the best advice he’s received, like knowing when to stop doing low-value tasks and instead invest in the right people. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to break out of the solopreneur business, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Justin and Landon from Alpha Outdoors in Springfield MO started as high school friends, doing some side jobs together to earn cash, and today are successful business partners.

There were some bumps in the road though - we dig into how they evolved and worked to define clear roles for themselves, so that the business had processes that could help them grow and scale successfully.

Give them a follow: https://www.instagram.com/alphaoutdoors417

Today I sit down with Richard Carroll from Elkhart Indiana and get to hear his story on how he went out on his own while leveraging Instagram to grow his business and brand. We also talked about WHY he went out on his own, and what it takes to be a good leader that retains their best people

If you follow Richard, you know his signature designs. Grab your favorite beverage, and join me in learning Richard's story

https://instagram.com/rcoutdoor?igshid=OGQ2MjdiOTE=

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Jamie Feie from Supreme Scapes in Ohio shares his story on the garage fire they experienced, losing a bunch of equipment, and how they overcame the challenge.

We also unpacked his growth journey, where his mindset is now 13 years in, and how they're building a solid foundation with their team.

Give them a follow!

I first ran into Lee at the Techo Showcase events as he was manning the In-Lite booth next to me. I found out he used to run his own hardscape business, then got out of it to work for In-Lite. I wanted to pick his brain to find out why he made the switch, and what the good and the bad were. Listen to the show and let me know what you think in my Instagram DMs at @synkedup.

Give Lee Beecher a follow on his Instagram, as he helps contractors light up the world with In-Lite! https://instagram.com/inlite_lee?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Caleb and I sat down and I picked his brain on what he's using the shop for, why he's building it, and when would be the right time for you to build a shop.

The conversation went all over the map from there: how Knowing Your Numbers, and then Efficiency, are the two lowest-hanging fruits to increase profits.

Wrapped it up by talking about this Instagram community, and how to think through the comparison trap.

Caleb is running an Academy this winter where you can learn hardscape construction techniques.

You can find Caleb on IG here: https://instagram.com/aumanlandscapellc?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

His Kid Contractor podcast here: 

And his Hardscape Academy here: 

Sign up for one of his classes to upgrade your knowledge and skill 🔥

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Luke Neathery is not only a hardscaper, but also a talented water feature artist, cowboy, and horse trainer.

I pick his brain on how and why he incorporates water features into his projects. We also cover some of his tough experiences in business, and the lessons he's learned.

Give Luke a follow on his Instagram, he posts some awesome projects. 

And his website: 

Today we're sitting down with Frank Bourque, live at the HNA show in Louisville Kentucky. Frank is a business consultant, who's been there and done that. One of the cool things about observing so many businesses over the years is he's been able to map out the 5 stages of business, and we talk shop about the challenges and bottlenecks in the different stages, and how to advance to the next stage and get your business to a place where it's providing the life you want.

Give Frank a follow on Instagram https://instagram.com/frank_bourque
Or check out his website at FrankBourque.com

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Today's episode is with the myth and the legend - Matt Hiner, from Hiner Outdoor in the beautiful Rockies of Colorado. I respect Matt a ton as an artist and peer in the industry. We first met many years ago in the Aquascape circles, and have hit it off since.

In our conversation, we explored what it looks like to go from $1 million in sales to $5 million. Matt's story is raw and real, and there are many gold nuggets to glean from his experiences. Teaser... a lot of it comes down to leadership.

You can follow Matt's story on Instagram at Matt Hiner (@the_yardist)
and follow his company Hiner Outdoor at H I N E R (@hineroutdoorliving)

Thank you Matt for being a part of the #synkedupcrew. Crush it in 2023!

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Kent Muir from Good 2 Great Landscape in Pittsburgh PA, was working as an employee in a landscaping company, and ended up buying it and taking it over. Listen to his story as he took it over and grew it into a great organization, even working for some famous sports celebrities in the Pittsburgh area!

Give him and his team a follow: 

Mark Todd's story is an interesting one. Listen to his journey with his business, Todd Quality, and how his model and services evolved over time. He went from 9 employees to 3 along the way, and we dig into the pros and cons with his experience on that change.

Mark has significantly increased his net profit by using SynkedUP in his business, and he shares how it did that for him.

Give Mark a follow and check out his awesome machines!

If anyone has figured this out, Sean and Catherine from Premier Outdoor in NJ have. When you have bills to pay, it's hard to say no to jobs that don't fit your ideal job profile. But honestly, that's what it takes. If you wonder how some people (like Sean) always get those sick jobs, it starts by getting really clear on the jobs you want and saying no to the others.

That's how you get a brand going that is signature, and recognizable, without even looking at the profile picture beside the post. You already know who it is. That's branding.

Follow Sean and Catherine at @premieroutdoor on Instagram and Premiere Outdoor Living on YouTube!

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

I sat down with Chris Morales, the founder of Morales Outdoor Living, to uncover the hard-won lessons and successes of his entrepreneurial journey. From humble beginnings with a two-door truck and an $800 trailer, to tackling a once-in-a-lifetime Christmas-themed hotel project, Chris shares his story of passion, perseverance, and the power of building a dedicated team.

As a fellow green industry veteran, I was inspired by Chris's commitment to quality, his investment in company culture, and the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship. We’ll discuss the challenges of delegating tasks, mastering his finances, and balancing the demands of work and family life – challenges that I've faced myself.

This episode is a raw, authentic look at the realities of running a thriving hardscaping business.

Give them a follow: Instagram (@moralesoutdoorliving)

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Keegan Grove is the founder of Mountain Strong Landscaping in West Virginia. His story is a literal embodiment of what I built SynkedUP for - unlocking hard-working contractors and getting them from surviving to thriving in their businesses.

There are a lot of hard workers in this industry. But unfortunately, hard work is not a guarantee of success. It’s a necessary ingredient, yes, but not the ticket. It’s not the hardest worker that wins.

This has been one of my favorite episodes to date. Thanks, Keegan!

Give him a follow at 

Come to the event that changed everything for Keegan!

Contractor Summit | SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software

Bio: Christopher Castano started his landscaping business when he was 15, trimming bushes and spreading mulch on his lunch breaks. Fast forward, and he’s now running a thriving design-build company crafting high-end outdoor spaces with his team in North Carolina. In this episode, we dive into how Christopher went from figuring it out on the fly to tackling half-million-dollar projects, training a solid crew, and creating a business that’s all about quality, trust, and timeless designs. Christopher shares insights into hiring, pricing, and maintaining trust with clients while constantly leveling up – one project at a time. 💪

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Jeremy Morales of Morales Masonry & Landscaping has been pounding the pavement for years in this industry, working out in the field, hustling to make it.

Today he tells his story on how he realized the work will always be there and started making some business and lifestyle changes. Today he's realizing his lifelong dream of getting his pilot's license and flying his own plane.

Give him a follow at 

This is an awesome episode, listening to Caleb's story on how he started his company, rebranded, and leveraged the right tools and technology to maximize productivity and profits. We discussed how mindset is the difference in realizing that productivity/profit magic, and not realizing it. And how investing into your team is critical to making it all happen.

Hit up Caleb Kangas at https://instagram.com/thirdspacekc?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= on Instagram or thirdspacekc.com to see his website.

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software |

 or DM me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/synkedup/?hl=en

Joel DeLa Paz from Nunez Outdoor Living in Traverse City in Michigan is a newer SynkedUP user, aka SynkedUP Crew. And I kept running into him at all these events! Cruz Lon's boot camp, HNA, Las Vegas, and more. This made me curious, as many contractors manage to get away to an event or two a year, but Joel was investing heavily!

So we sat down and had a conversation, I picked his brain on why he was investing in himself so much, and how it's impacting him and their business.

"The company will not grow past you. You are the ceiling to the company's growth"

Give them a follow at 

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Description: Corey and Collin Schindler are truly role models of what we mean when we say #thrivenotsurvive at SynkedUP. Their story is both so relatable, and inspiring.

Long story short, they went from being reactive in their decision-making, to strategic.

They spent $5k a year on SynkedUP, and made $100k in additional profit in their first year. If you ask them, they’ll tell you it felt like spending money they didn’t have. But that investment came back to them many times over.

Give them a follow!

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Jordan Daneker from Evolve Design Build in OBX NC shares his experience of growing his company and using SynkedUP this year. He's very open sharing the mindset challenges, pitfalls, and successes of using the program and rolling it out in his company.

Then, in an unplanned twist, we ran overtime on our recording session, and I had to jump onto a call with a business owner exploring using SynkedUP, and the conversation kept right on rolling, so we included it in this episode.

You can find Jordan on Instagram at: https://instagram.com/evolve_design_build?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

They do some sweet projects! And I'm gonna make it down there on vacation yet and hang out with him. 😎

Cheers! 🥂

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Hunter Hutchinson from Haven Outdoor gives us a peek into his 10-yr journey in his landscaping and outdoor living business.

He started with nothing ten years ago, borrowing equipment to get started.

Today he's focused on building the systems and processes, transitioning from owner-operator to business owner.

Give Hunter a follow 

This was an incredible episode with Jeremy Swihart. While visiting his operation, I was totally impressed with his organization and utilization of tools and equipment. And that bled through to his team, you could see the pride they took in their operation and their work.

We talked about his journey from barely breaking even to now charging what they're worth and making a real profit, which in turn, builds a real business.

We also went pretty in-depth on hiring the right employees, culture, and becoming efficient. And how efficiency is one of the most overlooked sources of net profit.

Jeremy is one of those proven titans in this industry, but this story just goes to show how we ALL go through the trying fire of real-life challenges.

You can find him on Instagram at Jeremy Swihart (@jsquaredoutdoor)
And his website at: http://www.jsquaredoutdoor.com/ 

In this episode we also mentioned:
Jeremy Cable - Cable Bros Outdoor Services (@cablebrosoutdoors)
Andy Mulder - Andy Mulder (@mulderoutdoors)

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Jim and James Womer are an incredible SynkedUP success story. I loved listening to it. On today's episode, they take us on their journey as a team, and the challenges of handing responsibilities from one owner to another. Transferring knowledge that's bottled up on one brain; to another brain trying to unpack and learn the process.

Give the Womer boys a follow!

Looking ahead is important. From time to time we need to raise our nose off of the grindstone and think about "where am I trying to get to?"

Otherwise, the business will lead you around to the squeakiest wheel forever.

Owning the business instead of the business owning you requires vision and planning.

I had a good time interviewing Elmer Fisher from Potted Luck in PA, discussing his vision and challenges.

Give Elmer a follow! 

Caleb and Jack from Kindred Outdoor Solutions have dived into the entrepreneurial rollercoaster together as a 50/50 partnership, and they're doing really well.

This intrigues me, as I know the 50/50 partnerships are controversial. But Jack and Caleb give us a peek into how it's working, what the challenges are, and the decisions they've made that have really benefitted the business.

Give them a follow at:

 and 

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Today I get to sit down with Mike Pletz from @howtohardscape on Instagram. I interviewed him on what his business + online presence looks like, how he got started, and what his vision is for his hardscape and online business.

Give him a follow to be inspired on some awesome hardscape projects.

Today I got to interview Manny Neves from the Construction Life Podcast for my own show. Manny was a general contractor for years and started his podcast out on the job sites.

Obviously, my background is in landscaping, so what I wanted to do was to pick his brain on what challenges he saw in contractors succeeding from his background as a general contractor.

Listen in to the conversation and give Manny's podcast a follow here: Podcast

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

I'm with Rob Picone from Picone Landscaping in New York, having a great discussion on balancing the pressure between growing a business and not letting life blow by and missing the moments that matter.

We also discussed their journey of onboarding SynkedUP into their business, and how important discipline is in any process in your business. It's always easier to keep on doing what you've always done, it takes discipline to grow and improve.

Give Rob and his wife Lisa a follow on Instagram (@piconelandscapingwny)

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

I sat down with Don Fouce and he shared his startup journey of his landscaping company in Indiana. With $600k in revenue, 1 full-time employee, and 3 part-time employees, he's winning. Listen to his story on how he's doing it, and the meaning he's finding beyond just the financial success.

Craig Sheller has a rich history in this industry. He owned his 1st landscape business a number of years ago, then got out of it to work with suppliers and vendors serving contractors. When the pandemic hit, he got back into contracting again, this time much wiser and going at it differently.

Craig does beautiful work. Follow his jobs on his Instagram at https://instagram.com/shelleroutdoorliving?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= or his website at 

If you sign up for SynkedUP, make sure to support Craig by using his referral link: Webinar | SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

The boys at Top Rock started off on their own, and worked as a pair for a while. Just recently they hired their first employee. We discuss their thought process behind adding employees, and how they think about structuring their crew and equipment setup.

Give them a follow at: 

Aaron Ashton runs Thunderbird Landscaping in Pittsburgh PA. Talking to Aaron, you can see his love for what he does on a daily basis. In our conversation, we discuss the challenges he's faced in hiring and keeping good employees, and when people go out on their own.

We also covered what "winning" looks like for business systems for a 2 man show, and how to free up time for the owner to do more of what they love.

Give Aaron a follow on Instagram and his website

Sam Rankin from Etch Outdoor Living in Ankeny, Iowa, is going all in on building a business. We talk about his mindset and vision on how he is achieving that goal.

We discussed building a business from scratch vs buying a business to grow. We also dug into how he is providing a place for his team to grow, rewarding loyalty and skills vs seniority.

Give Sam and his team a follow at https://instagram.com/etchoutdoor
and https://www.etchoutdoor.com/