Fullerton Unfiltered

Ever had one of those experiences where you walk out of a business shaking your head, wondering how they're even still in business? That was me this week… at the bank. In this episode, I'm sharing what might just be the WORST customer experience I've ever had, and I'm fired up about it. We're breaking down exactly what happened, why it was such a train wreck, and more importantly, what every business owner can learn from it. Taking care of the customer isn't complicated — yet so many companies still get it wrong. If you want to build a winning business, this episode is your wake-up call. Register for the LMN Webinar (on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025 from 7a-7:45a) SnowNtell.com (Oct. 27-31)

On this episode, I sit down with Rich Thiebaud to unpack his incredible journey in the green industry. Rich built and scaled his own landscape company to $8 million in revenue before feeling called to pivot into a new chapter. That decision led him to LMN, where he helped transform the way contractors run their businesses, and now into his role as EVP of Sales at Leanscaper. We talk about the lessons he learned building a successful company, the courage it takes to change direction at the top of your game, and how his passion for people and growth fuels his work today. Whether you're running a crew, scaling a business, or considering your next big leap, Rich's story is packed with insight and inspiration. Register for the LMN Webinar on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025 from 7a-7:45a

Big moves today set the stage for massive momentum tomorrow. In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on two strategic investments we've made to fuel growth going into Q4 and beyond — a brand-new media studio to level up our content game, and new trucks to expand production capacity in the field. This is a behind-the-scenes look at why we're investing heavily now to build for the future, how these decisions align with our long-term vision, and what it truly takes to position your business for the next level. Register for the LMN Webinar on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025 from 7a-7:45a

Good is comfortable, but great requires action. In this episode, we unpack the bias to act — why moving forward, even imperfectly, is what separates average results from extraordinary ones. If you've ever wondered what the true difference is between good and great in business and life, this conversation will light a fire under you.

In this episode, I sit down with Benji Carlson, EVP of Community at Leanscaper, to talk about how AI, people, and purpose are reshaping the green industry. We explore the massive transformation already underway, what it means for lawn and landscape businesses, and why now is the time to embrace change and be part of the movement.

In this episode, I sit down to debrief the Harvest of Knowledge conference and share some of the biggest takeaways from Sam Gemble and other incredible voices who brought fresh insights on leadership, culture, and accountability. We'll talk about what stood out, what we can implement right away, and why events like this push us to level up as owners and leaders. I'll also break some exciting news—our new fuel card partnership with Coast Pay. I'll explain how it's changing the way we manage our fleet, improve accountability, and save money in real time. If you've been on the fence about getting organized with fuel costs, this is the episode to tune into.

Join Liz and me as we share a fresh update on what's happening with Brian's Lawn Maintenance. From the excitement of adding a new truck to the fleet to the bigger vision we're chasing for the next season, we'll take you behind the scenes of the moves we're making and where we're heading next.

On this episode, I'm joined by Steve Wheatcroft — a guy who scaled his company to $30M, successfully exited, and then went on to lead a private equity roll-up to $100M. Steve has seen growth at every level and knows one thing for sure: every problem and every solution in business comes down to people. We dig into what it takes to build a winning team, why people are the biggest challenge and the greatest asset in any organization, and how leadership at scale always circles back to developing and empowering your team. Whether you're running a small crew or eyeing a massive operation, this conversation will help you rethink how you lead and grow through people.

In this episode, I sit down with Steven Bennett from LMN right at my kitchen table to talk about why the green industry is so much more than cutting grass or moving snow. We explore what it means to belong to a community with a mission, how this work builds a lasting legacy, and why there's such an energy around being part of something bigger than yourself. If you've ever wondered what makes this industry so special, or why so many of us are sold out on growing together, this conversation will light a fire in you. It's about purpose, people, and passion — and why you're right where you belong. Lawntrepreneur Academy LIVE 2025 is locked, loaded, and ready to change the game!

In this episode of the Fullerton Unfiltered Podcast, I'm joined by Tommy Cole to unpack the heart behind the Leanscaper movement. It's more than just a buzzword — being a Leanscaper is about building a smarter, more connected landscaping community that shares ideas, supports one another, and drives the industry forward. We also dive into the exciting role of Leanscaper AI, the innovative tools that are helping contractors streamline operations, bid smarter, and make data-driven decisions. Tommy shares how this technology is reshaping the way landscapers approach everything from job costing to team management — and how it's empowering owners at every stage of their journey. If you've ever wondered what it means to be part of the Leanscaper community and how AI fits into the future of our industry, this episode will give you a clear picture and a ton of inspiration.

Take a trip with me to Iron Mountain, the home of BOSS Snowplow. In this episode I share what it was like visiting their headquarters, learning firsthand about their latest products, and seeing how they're shaping the future of snow and ice management. From cutting-edge tech to the platforms and tools that are changing the way contractors work, we dive into where BOSS has been and where they're going next. Boss: https://www.bossplow.com/  Horizon 360: https://revolution.toro.com/horizon-360/  Toro: https://www.toro.com/en/ 

Stepping into entrepreneurship often starts with a decision, not a perfect plan. In this episode, we talk about the power of committing first and figuring it out later — leaning into bold moves, embracing risk, and surrounding yourself with the right environments that push you to grow. If you've been waiting for the “perfect time” to start, this conversation is your reminder that the leap itself is what creates the path forward.

In this episode, I take a pause from business as usual to reflect on the recent loss of Charlie Kirk. It's a time to grieve, pray, and lift up our country as we process this heavy moment together. Sometimes we just need to slow down, find perspective, and remember what really matters.

Ever wondered what mower brand is really worth the investment? Or what size stick edger you should grab to get clean, professional edges without wasting money on underpowered gear? In this episode, I'm answering your questions about equipment — from lawnmowers to edgers and everything in between. We'll talk about what I personally look for when buying, how dealer support plays a role, and why power, reliability, and efficiency matter more than hype. Whether you're just starting out or leveling up your setup, this Q&A will give you practical insight to make smarter equipment choices and keep your business running smooth.

In this episode, we dive into the red flags you need to watch for when taking on new customers — but more importantly, how to truly understand what they're saying and what they actually need. We'll talk about how to read between the lines, uncover hidden expectations, and make sure your agreements reflect reality. This way, you protect your business, deliver value, and set the stage for long-term success.

In this episode, we sit down with our good friend Mitchell Gordy of MithGo Outdoors for a relaxed catch-up. From life updates to business growth, equipment talk, and what's been happening behind the scenes, this conversation is all about reconnecting and sharing real stories from the field. Tune in for a laid-back chat with one of the industry's most genuine voices.

Get ready for a busy fall in the green industry! From registering now for Equip Expo to making plans for Leanscaper Dallas, catching the Harvest of Knowledge with Sam Gembel, and locking in your spot for Lawntrepreneur Academy Live 2025, this quick update will keep you in the loop. Don't miss the biggest events shaping our industry this September, October, and November!  

We're pulling back the curtain on the brand-new Brian's Lawn Maintenance website! In this episode, I'll share why we made the move, how elevating our web presence ties directly into growing the business, and what this next chapter means for our clients, brand, and future. If you've ever thought about refreshing your own online presence, this one's for you. Check out everything Branded Bull has to offer to help you take your web presence to the next level.

In this episode, we recap our incredible weekend at Together in the Trades in beautiful Savannah, Georgia. From practical marriage advice to mindset shifts that strengthen both your relationship and your business, we share the highlights, takeaways, and powerful moments that left us inspired. Whether you were there in person or are hearing about it for the first time, this conversation is packed with encouragement for couples navigating life and entrepreneurship together.

In this episode, we break down the simple but powerful “napkin math” that shows exactly where your investments in equipment, people, and marketing start paying off. You'll learn how to identify the point where the lines cross—where smart spending turns into exponential returns—and how to use this framework to make confident, profitable business decisions.

In this episode, we tour the incredible operations of Distinct Outdoor Living with founder Noah Balice. From stunning outdoor living spaces to a dialed-in design-build process, Noah reveals what it takes to run a high-end landscaping brand in today's market. We talk branding, project management, team culture, pricing premium work, and how to balance craftsmanship with scalability. If you're in the landscape, hardscape, or outdoor living game—this one's packed with real insight and inspiration.

In this episode, Brian breaks down the power of door-to-door sales for growing your lawn and landscaping business. Learn how to target the right properties, what to say at the door, and how to follow up to win more commercial accounts. If you've been waiting for the phone to ring, it's time to get proactive and start knocking — this simple strategy could unlock your next big contract.

If you've ever been stuck guessing measurements or spending hours on-site with a tape wheel, you're going to love this. Today, we're taking you under the hood with Attentive AI's AutoMeasure — the game-changing tool we're now using to measure lawns, snow lots, mulch beds, and more in minutes, not hours.   Promo Code Brian50 saves 50% at signup   booking link for a demo: https://attentive.schedulehero.io/meet/janani/book-a-meeting-with-janani  

Jacob Trezil of Custom Touch Outdoors is building something special — and today we're sharing his story. From humble beginnings to a dialed-in setup, Jacob walks us through what it takes to grow a lawn and landscape company in a small town with big goals. Trucks, trailers, systems, and mindset — it's all here.

Joel Adams of Joel's Lawn Care in Ft. Collins, CO shares his journey of realizing when business and life weren't adding up—and what it took to recognize the signs before it was too late. We dig into leadership shifts, personal awareness, and the “boiling frog” moments every entrepreneur should watch for.

Snow removal contracts aren't as simple as they seem — and signing the wrong one can cost you big time. In this episode, I'm breaking down the fine print, exposing the red flags, and showing you the hidden clauses that could sink your profits. We'll cover real examples from past seasons, the sneaky wording you need to look out for, and how to protect yourself before putting pen to paper. Whether you're new to snow removal or a seasoned pro, this is a must-watch before winter hits.

Ariel Ochoa is taking his family's landscaping business to a whole new level. On today's show, we sit down with this second-generation owner to hear how he's growing Ochoa's Landscaping with fresh energy, big vision, and a commitment to excellence. From lawn care to snow, Ariel is rewriting what the family legacy looks like.

After years of memories, miles, and mayhem, it's time to say goodbye to Thundah — the truck that helped build our brand and carried us through countless seasons. In this heartfelt episode, I share why we made the tough decision to sell, what Thundah meant to our story, and what's next as we turn the page. Buckle up for one last ride.

In this episode, Christian Schloegel from C&I Services joins us to talk about the power of prioritizing yourself — your health, your mindset, and your leadership — so your business can finally grow. From burnout to breakthrough, Christian shares how leveling up personally transformed his company and why your business can only grow as far as you do.

Teenager Tour heads to North Chicago with Colin Sullivan of Crew Landscapes! From mowing to full-service landscaping and hardscaping, Colin's built a thriving business before even graduating high school. We dive into his setup, how he scaled up, and what it takes to grow a legit company as a young entrepreneur.

Want to know how to price snow plowing and bulk salting jobs accurately and profitably? In this episode, I share our proven system for quoting snow work with confidence — from calculating plow rates and salt costs to factoring in equipment, labor, and fuel. Stop undercharging and start winning bids that actually make money.

Want to finally crack the code on pricing lawn care jobs? In this replay from Brian's popular YouTube channel, we dive into how to price mowing and lawn care services accurately—every single time. Brian shares his proven formula for bidding jobs, factoring in time, labor, and overhead so you can stop guessing, win more work, and guarantee profit. If pricing has ever stressed you out, this episode will give you the confidence and clarity to quote like a pro.

In this episode, we sit down with Charlie Gmeiner of Maple Valley Land Management, a teenager who's already making big moves in the lawn and landscaping game across St. Clair and Grosse Pointe, Michigan. Charlie shares how he started his business, the challenges he's faced as a young entrepreneur, and the strategies that helped him grow into a trusted name in his community. Whether you're just starting out or looking for inspiration to scale your own lawn care company, Charlie's story is packed with practical tips, grit, and a fresh perspective on what it takes to succeed.

Not every content creator on YouTube has the experience or credibility to be giving advice — and following the wrong voices can cost you time, money, and momentum. In this episode, I share the full lay of the land on who you should actually be listening to, how to spot fake gurus, and why it's critical to filter out bad advice if you want to grow your business.

In Cracking the Google Code: Branded Bull's SEO Secrets for More Leads, we're breaking down the exact strategies we use to help businesses dominate search results and turn clicks into customers. From on-page optimization and keyword targeting to building high-authority backlinks and mastering local SEO, you'll learn what actually moves the needle in today's online landscape. If you've been frustrated by your website's performance or feel like Google is a mystery, this episode will give you a clear, actionable roadmap to improve your rankings and generate more inbound leads.

Danny Raffner started out as just a teenager with a mower and a dream — now he's running nearly 100 lawn care accounts and dominating Medina, Ohio. Working six days a week, Danny has turned his small side hustle into a serious business, proving that age is just a number when you're willing to grind. In this episode, we dig into how he got started, the challenges he's overcome, and what it takes to build a lawn care empire before you're even 20 years old. Reffner Lawncare on Facebook

In today's episode, we're talking all things snow — and how investing in the right knowledge can mean the difference between profit and pain this winter. Most guys jump into snow removal with a plow and a prayer… but the truth is, you don't know what you don't know. From pricing mistakes to contract nightmares, we've seen it all. That's why we built real resources at Lawntrepreneur Academy to help you get smart, fast. Whether you're a rookie just landing your first commercial lot or a veteran looking to tighten up your systems and margins, there's something here for you. We'll break down what tools, courses, and strategies are available, and why sharpening your skills before the snow flies can help you make real money when the weather turns.

In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on a recent mess that cost me time, stress — and $3,900 in unpaid invoices. We're talking subcontractor agreements, payment clauses, and the brutal truth about working with national brokers. If you've ever trusted a handshake or skimmed the fine print, this is your wake-up call. I'll walk you through what happened with a major snow contract, why I'm chasing money that should've already been paid, and the contract clause that changed everything. Learn from my mistakes — so you don't get burned next season.

In today's Teenager Tour spotlight, we're headed to Medina, Ohio, to meet Gavin Gerspacher, the young founder of Level Up Lawn Care. At just 18, Gavin is grinding hard, running routes, and chasing big goals in the green industry. We talk about how he got started, his biggest lessons so far, and what he's doing to scale his business. If you're a young hustler or just love a good underdog story, this episode is for you!

In this raw, unfiltered episode, I open up about what the spreadsheets don't show — the emotions, decisions, and real-life weight behind every estimate, every bid, and every budgeting choice. From personal finances to business scaling, it's all on the table. If you've ever wondered what it takes to run a business, support a family, and still sleep at night, this one's for you.

In today's episode, we're asking the hard question: How confident are you in your pricing? If you hesitate even a little, this episode is for you. We're digging into the real numbers behind bidding, estimating, and knowing your worth — because guessing isn't a strategy, and “what the other guys charge” isn't a business model. Whether you're pricing a lawn, a mulch job, or a six-figure commercial snow contract, you need to be 100% dialed in. We'll break down how to calculate your costs, factor in overhead, and build in healthy profit margins — so you're not just staying busy, but actually making money. Let's get you pricing with confidence, clarity, and conviction. Tune in and take your quoting game to the next level!

We're kicking off the Teenager Tour 2025 with a bang! In this episode, we sit down with Henrik Gislason — better known as The Lawn Care Kid — the powerhouse behind Thor Outdoor. At just 19, he's already building a name for himself in the green industry with hustle, heart, and a whole lot of passion. We discuss how he got started, what motivates him, and what it's like to run a business as a teenager. Get inspired by Henrik's story and hear what's coming up on this year's Teenager Tour as we highlight the next generation of lawn care legends.

In this episode, we're hanging out with the powerhouse duo behind Two Boys and a Lawnmower — a rising lawn care business run by two hardworking young men out of Wisconsin. These guys are proving that age is just a number when it comes to hustle, drive, and making things happen. We dive into how they got started, the challenges they've overcome, and what it takes to crush it in the green industry as young entrepreneurs. If you need a dose of inspiration and proof that the future of lawn care is in good hands — this one's for you!

In this episode, we're flipping the script on what most people believe about sales. Too often, we hear "no" and think it's the end of the road — but in reality, it's just the start of the real conversation. Whether you're selling lawn care services, pitching a sponsorship, or trying to grow your business, learning how to handle rejection is key to closing deals. We'll talk about how to turn objections into opportunities, build resilience, and reframe every "no" as a stepping stone toward success. Let's redefine the sales game, one no at a time.

Ready to level up your commercial game? In this episode, we're walking through how to bid commercial jobs step-by-step — from measuring properties and calculating man-hours to factoring in materials, equipment, and profit. Whether you're just getting started or looking to sharpen your estimating skills, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to win more work. PLUS — we're excited to announce our brand-new Commercial Bidding Course now available at LawntrepreneurAcademy.com! If you've ever felt unsure about pricing, proposals, or closing big commercial accounts, this course is your blueprint for success. Let's break down a real bid together and set you up to scale smarter this season!

We're excited to unveil the brand-new LawntrepreneurAcademy.com — redesigned from the ground up with YOU in mind!

What's it really like to lead not one, but two powerhouse companies in the green industry? In this episode, we sit down with Mark Sedgley — CEO of both LMN and SingleOps — for an inside look at the mindset, strategy, and leadership it takes to drive growth at scale. We talk mergers, team culture, vision casting, and how he balances pressure with purpose in the CEO seat. Whether you're a solo operator or building a multi-million-dollar company, this conversation is packed with insights to level up your leadership game. LINK Membership Get Brian's Free Newsletter https://www.lawntrepreneuracademy.com/  LMN Mastermind Sessions (Use code Brian). LMN Landscape Software (Interested in checking out LMN and giving it a free Trial? Use our link or the code "Brian" to get the best savings and signup experience possible). Brian's Lawn Maintenance On YouTube Brian's Lawn Maintenance On Instagram www.brandedbullinc.com  www.CycleCPA.com mention code: Brian to save $200. www.PostcardMania.com/Brian Zero to $100K!: The Complete Guide on How to Start a Successful Lawn Care Company Brian's Lawn Maintenance "MERCH" Together In The Trades - The Summit for Couples in Business - Savannah, Georgia August 14 - 16, 2025 EQUIP Expo - Oct 21-25, 2025 (Save 50% with code Brian)   Our Affiliate Partners: www.EquipmentDefender.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.KujoYardwear.com (Brians10 Save 10%+Free Shipping!) www.ISOtunes.com (Save 10%) https://bit.ly/3wzhaI4 www.ProvenLocks.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.DarwinsGrip.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.Plow-Right.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.Ballard-Inc.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.EarthWay.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.RhinoHitch.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.SureCanUSA.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.ComfortTrim.com (Brians10 Save 10%)

In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on something that's been a total game-changer for our business — securing a line of credit. We'll share why we finally made the move, what the process looked like, and how it's giving us more flexibility to grow, invest, and operate with confidence. If you've ever wondered how business financing works or when it's the right time to tap into credit, this episode breaks it all down. Real talk, real numbers, and lessons we wish we knew sooner. LINK Membership Get Brian's Free Newsletter https://www.lawntrepreneuracademy.com/  LMN Mastermind Sessions (Use code Brian). LMN Landscape Software (Interested in checking out LMN and giving it a free Trial? Use our link or the code "Brian" to get the best savings and signup experience possible). Brian's Lawn Maintenance On YouTube Brian's Lawn Maintenance On Instagram www.brandedbullinc.com  www.CycleCPA.com mention code: Brian to save $200. www.PostcardMania.com/Brian Zero to $100K!: The Complete Guide on How to Start a Successful Lawn Care Company Brian's Lawn Maintenance "MERCH" Together In The Trades - The Summit for Couples in Business - Savannah, Georgia August 14 - 16, 2025 EQUIP Expo - Oct 21-25, 2025 (Save 50% with code Brian)   Our Affiliate Partners: www.EquipmentDefender.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.KujoYardwear.com (Brians10 Save 10%+Free Shipping!) www.ISOtunes.com (Save 10%) https://bit.ly/3wzhaI4 www.ProvenLocks.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.DarwinsGrip.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.Plow-Right.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.Ballard-Inc.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.EarthWay.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.RhinoHitch.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.SureCanUSA.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.ComfortTrim.com (Brians10 Save 10%)

We're so grateful you tune in each week — seriously, it means the world. If you've gotten value from the show, would you mind taking 30 seconds to leave a quick review? It helps more than you know and keeps the podcast growing strong. Thanks for being part of the journey! LINK Membership Get Brian's Free Newsletter https://www.lawntrepreneuracademy.com/  LMN Mastermind Sessions (Use code Brian). LMN Landscape Software (Interested in checking out LMN and giving it a free Trial? Use our link or the code "Brian" to get the best savings and signup experience possible). Brian's Lawn Maintenance On YouTube Brian's Lawn Maintenance On Instagram www.brandedbullinc.com  www.CycleCPA.com mention code: Brian to save $200. www.PostcardMania.com/Brian Zero to $100K!: The Complete Guide on How to Start a Successful Lawn Care Company Brian's Lawn Maintenance "MERCH" Together In The Trades - The Summit for Couples in Business - Savannah, Georgia August 14 - 16, 2025 EQUIP Expo - Oct 21-25, 2025 (Save 50% with code Brian)   Our Affiliate Partners: www.EquipmentDefender.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.KujoYardwear.com (Brians10 Save 10%+Free Shipping!) www.ISOtunes.com (Save 10%) https://bit.ly/3wzhaI4 www.ProvenLocks.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.DarwinsGrip.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.Plow-Right.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.Ballard-Inc.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.EarthWay.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.RhinoHitch.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.SureCanUSA.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.ComfortTrim.com (Brians10 Save 10%)

Your brand is being judged in seconds — and it's not your pricing or services that make the first impression. It's your photos, videos, and overall visual game. In this episode, we're breaking down the massive impact that high-quality media has on your business, from winning over premium clients to building trust before you even say a word. I'll share real examples of how leveling up our photo and video content transformed our brand, helped us charge more, and set us apart from the competition. If you're still snapping blurry pics or winging it on social — this one's for you. LINK Membership Get Brian's Free Newsletter https://www.lawntrepreneuracademy.com/  LMN Mastermind Sessions (Use code Brian). LMN Landscape Software (Interested in checking out LMN and giving it a free Trial? Use our link or the code "Brian" to get the best savings and signup experience possible). Brian's Lawn Maintenance On YouTube Brian's Lawn Maintenance On Instagram www.brandedbullinc.com  www.CycleCPA.com mention code: Brian to save $200. www.PostcardMania.com/Brian Zero to $100K!: The Complete Guide on How to Start a Successful Lawn Care Company Brian's Lawn Maintenance "MERCH" Together In The Trades - The Summit for Couples in Business - Savannah, Georgia August 14 - 16, 2025 EQUIP Expo - Oct 21-25, 2025 (Save 50% with code Brian)   Our Affiliate Partners: www.EquipmentDefender.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.KujoYardwear.com (Brians10 Save 10%+Free Shipping!) www.ISOtunes.com (Save 10%) https://bit.ly/3wzhaI4 www.ProvenLocks.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.DarwinsGrip.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.Plow-Right.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.Ballard-Inc.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.EarthWay.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.RhinoHitch.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.SureCanUSA.com (Brians10 Save 10%) www.ComfortTrim.com (Brians10 Save 10%)