GROW by Design

In this episode, I explore the profound similarities between endurance running and building a successful business. Drawing from my own journey as both a business owner and runner over the past three years, I break down three key parallels: how building an aerobic base through boring, consistent Zone 2 training mirrors the slow, unglamorous daily work required in business; how proper nutrition for athletic performance parallels feeding your mind with quality information while weeding out negativity; and how advanced race fueling strategies compare to leveraging mentors and conferences to accelerate business growth. I explain why there's no overnight success in either discipline—only the compound effect of small, consistent efforts over time that eventually create the "hockey stick" growth curve everyone wants. This perspective has transformed how I approach both running and business, reminding me that excellence in any area requires the same core principles of consistency, patience, and strategic improvement.

In this episode, I share a critical realization I had while running around putting out fires during our busy spring season. I explain how easy it is to get caught up in the chaos of daily emergencies and lose sight of what truly matters in your business. Drawing from my own experience of being too busy to sell work and ending up with no jobs in August, I break down why business owners must identify their highest priorities and maintain consistency even when overwhelmed. I discuss the importance of creating action lists, planning your day before it starts, and accepting that progress is often slow and invisible. Whether you're in the middle of spring rush or just feeling buried by daily operations, these practical mindset shifts will help you stay focused on growth while managing the inevitable fires of business ownership.

In this episode, I break down why knowing your numbers is absolutely critical to business success. I've learned through growing my landscaping company that setting a detailed budget isn't just about tracking expenses—it's about calculating exactly what we need to charge per hour to cover all overhead, equipment costs, and still generate profit. I compare business budgeting to calorie counting because staying under budget consistently leads to financial health, just like staying under your calorie count leads to weight loss.I share my personal experiences with both sides of the financial spectrum—being cash-rich and being heavily leveraged with debt—and why understanding your numbers gives you the confidence to make growth decisions. I explain how we calculate our hourly rates by dividing total operating costs by billable hours, then adding our target profit margin. This approach has allowed us to reinvest profits rather than rely too heavily on debt, though I'm honest about times I've felt the pressure of a "debt spiral" when taking big opportunities.Most importantly, I emphasize that perfect numbers don't exist when you're starting out—you have to make your best estimate and then adjust as you learn. Knowing your numbers isn't about perfection; it's about having the clarity to make decisions, manage stress, and guide your business toward consistent profitability.

In this focused episode of Grow by Design, we tackle the challenges service businesses face during the spring rush. Learn three actionable strategies to manage the seasonal influx without compromising quality or burning out: keeping the main thing the main thing, controlling growth through strategic pricing, and automating redundant tasks. Discover how to identify your true priorities, use price modulation as a tool to manage demand, and implement automated communication systems that mind the gap between sale and service delivery. Whether you're in landscaping, HVAC, pressure washing, or any seasonal service industry, these practical insights will help you navigate busy periods while building a foundation for sustainable growth.

Ben Boss, a physical therapist and financial professional who bridges two seemingly different worlds with a common purpose: helping people recover and grow stronger. Ben shares his journey from University of Kentucky to becoming passionate about innovative physical therapy techniques like NewFit direct electrical stimulation while simultaneously entering the business financing industry through Bluegrass Lending. Discover how Ben helps businesses overcome cash flow challenges with same-day financing solutions when traditional banks aren't an option, including merchant cash advances for urgent needs like covering payroll or seizing growth opportunities. As an avid marathon runner with a 3:14 PR and ambitious sub-3-hour goals, Ben explains how athletic discipline influences his professional approach and why he's drawn to helping both injured athletes and cash-strapped businesses recover quickly. Whether you're interested in cutting-edge physical therapy innovations, alternative business financing options, or the connection between athletic endurance and professional success, this conversation offers valuable insights on building resilience in both body and business.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Tyler Pedersen, founder of Endurance Dad Life, as he shares his journey from struggling with alcoholism to becoming a dedicated triathlete and father. Tyler opens up about his 648 days of sobriety, how endurance sports became his pathway to recovery, and his mission to build a supportive community for fathers balancing family responsibilities with athletic goals. Discover practical triathlon training advice for beginners, including swimming strategies, affordable equipment options through Facebook Marketplace, and realistic training expectations for busy parents with limited time. Tyler also shares vulnerably about parenting a child with Williams Syndrome and how these challenges have shaped his perspective on life and purpose. Whether you're interested in triathlon training, overcoming personal challenges, or finding balance as a father, this authentic conversation offers both inspiration and practical guidance for your own journey.

Every business owner faces difficult clients, but few talk about when to cut ties. In this episode, I share honest insights about balancing customer satisfaction with business sustainability. Learn how to evaluate problematic client relationships, identify patterns versus one-off situations, and handle termination conversations professionally. Discover why documentation is crucial, how to create objective systems for making these tough decisions, and why your bandwidth spent on impossible-to-please clients hurts your ability to serve others well. Whether you're dealing with scope creep, unreasonable demands, or clients who blame you for everything, this episode provides actionable strategies to maintain your sanity while protecting your company's reputation and culture. For service business owners tired of the emotional drain from difficult clients, this conversation offers both validation and practical solutions.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Bob Turner, founder of Summit Coaching & Consulting and experienced contractor turned business coach. Discover how Bob helps contractors overcome cash flow challenges, build stronger teams, and create sustainable growth strategies. Learn why leadership development is crucial for business success, how to maintain focus on what truly matters, and why accountability is the foundation of any high-performing organization. Bob shares his journey from running a contracting business to following his passion for coaching entrepreneurs, along with practical advice on creating business systems, managing teams effectively, and finding fulfillment in your work. Whether you're struggling with growth challenges or looking to scale your service business, this episode delivers actionable strategies from someone who's been in the trenches and understands the unique challenges contractors face.

In this episode of Grow by Design, we sit down with landscape industry veteran Caleb Almond, founder of Almond Landscape and Hardscape Academy. Caleb shares how he's scaling to $2.2 million in 2025 by investing in key hires and creating boutique client experiences. From selling high-end landscape design services to managing work-life balance, Caleb offers honest insights about his journey from "kid contractor" to established business owner. Learn practical strategies for creating systems that scale, how to transition from selling projects to selling experiences, and why solving client problems is more valuable than competing on price. Whether you're a solo operator or managing multiple crews, this conversation delivers actionable advice for growing your service business while maintaining what matters most. Don't miss Caleb's candid revelations about marriage in business and the personal development journey that transformed his company.

The single most critical metric that could make or break your service business in 2025 is Labor to Revenue ratio. This crucial number directly impacts your profitability, and even small improvements can double your net profit. Learn exactly how to track, measure, and fix labor efficiency issues before they become major problems. Understand how to calculate and monitor your labor revenue properly, identify early warning signs, and make data-driven decisions about pricing and staffing. Whether you're struggling with profitability or looking to scale efficiently, this episode provides the knowledge you need to take control of your business metrics. Perfect for service business owners who want to stop guessing and start measuring what really matters for sustainable growth in 2025.

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Zoe, our office manager and cake pop entrepreneur, as we explore how company values drive business success. Learn why accountability matters more than skill, how to build a high-performance culture, and why 'common sense' isn't enough to run a successful operation. Perfect for business owners and leaders looking to improve their team's efficiency while maintaining strong company culture. Discover practical insights on implementing urgency in your operations, managing accountability, and creating systems that scale.

Join us for an in-depth conversation with marketing expert Michael Tandridge about business growth strategies for 2025. From the psychology behind marketing decisions to practical tips on YouTube SEO, Google Local Service Ads, and building a strong digital presence. Learn how to generate more leads, understand the power of process implementation, and discover why traditional marketing methods still work in a digital age. Perfect for business owners looking to scale their operations and improve their marketing strategy in 2025.

In this episode Jacob chats with longtime friend and fellow business owner, Matthew Pennell. Together, they reflect on their entrepreneurial journeys, lessons learned in 2024, and how to stay focused while balancing family, business, and personal growth. They dive into the power of narrowing your focus, scaling your business effectively, and exploring exciting new ventures like fitness, nutrition, and longevity programs. Tune in for insights, laughs, and actionable tips to kickstart your 2025 goals!

In this episode, I'm recapping our incredible Training Day event! From kicking things off with an unforgettable dinner (yes, I overdid it on the Tomahawk steak) to a full day packed with actionable business strategies and powerful insights for 2025.We dove into marketing, financial lessons, team accountability, and building a strong company culture—all with clear takeaways to drive real growth. If you're ready to start your year with intention and focus, this episode is for you.Let's make 2025 a year of success!

Take control of your schedule and learn how to win the day! In this episode, Jacob shares strategies to master your calendar, prioritize tasks, and stay focused amid life's chaos. Discover how to plan your day effectively, back-work your goals into actionable steps, and adapt to challenges as they arise. Whether you're managing a business, juggling family responsibilities, or striving for personal growth, these tips will help you stay on track and achieve success. Tune in to transform how you approach each day and reach your goals!

In this episode, I share my personal strategy for making 2025 a year of growth, gratitude, and success. Reflecting on the challenges of 2024, I've identified three guiding principles—being grateful, being healthy, and being consistent—that will shape my decisions and actions this year. Learn how these simple yet powerful statements can help you achieve your goals and make continuous progress in your personal, professional, and family life. Tune in to discover how to create your own guiding principles and set the stage for your best year yet.

the life-changing lessons I learned from running 100 miles in the Daytona 100 Ultra Marathon. From battling intense knee pain to overcoming mental barriers, I share my raw, unfiltered experience of this grueling challenge. Dive into the highs and lows of ultra running, the mindset needed to push through adversity, and the profound insights that come with achieving the seemingly impossible. Whether you're an athlete, a goal-setter, or someone seeking inspiration, this podcast will show you what it takes to push past your limits and grow from the journey.

In this episode, we dive into the challenges of balancing assertiveness and handling interpersonal conflict as a leader. Learn how clarity, accountability, and effective communication can transform your leadership style and create a stronger, more aligned team. Perfect for business owners and aspiring leaders!

How can you stay effective all day long? In today's episode, I share actionable tips and proven strategies to help you maximize productivity, cut out wasted time, and plan your day like a pro. I break it down into four essential points, including how to plan your day and week, eliminate inefficiencies, and delegate tasks effectively. Staying on top of your schedule doesn't mean being rigid—it's about creating a plan that works for you and continually auditing to make small but powerful tweaks to your routine.

Reflecting on 2024 and planning an exceptional 2025! In this episode, we dive into a year of growth, challenges, and valuable lessons, and explore the power of intentional planning. Learn how to set meaningful goals, create a winning strategy, and position yourself for success in the new year. Whether you're an entrepreneur or just striving for personal growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you make 2025 your best year yet!

Do you ever feel like you're not good enough or question how you got to where you are? Imposter syndrome plagues even the most successful individuals, but it doesn't have to hold you back. In this episode, we dive deep into recognizing and managing imposter syndrome. Learn actionable strategies to shift your mindset, celebrate your wins, and build internal confidence. Whether you're a business owner, leader, or ambitious individual, this episode is your guide to silencing self-doubt and stepping fully into your potential.

In this episode of Grow by Design, we explore the mindset of urgency and how to balance speed with excellence to execute quickly in business. Learn how to cultivate a culture of urgency within your team without sacrificing quality, streamline decision-making, and overcome the common trap of analysis paralysis. Jacob shares actionable insights on leveraging core values, systems, and leadership to build a high-performance business that thrives on rapid execution. If you're an entrepreneur striving for faster progress and greater impact, this episode is for you!

Join us as we dive into my Iron Man experience—140.6 miles of swimming, biking, and running—and the journey that led me there. From overcoming a major injury to balancing intense training with life's challenges, this episode is all about pushing limits, building resilience, and the growth that comes from taking on big goals. Whether you're a business owner, an athlete, or simply someone looking to overcome your own challenges, this Iron Man recap offers insights and motivation for achieving your own version of the extraordinary. Listen in for a firsthand look at what it takes to conquer one of the toughest endurance races and come out stronger on the other side.

This week we're diving deep into one of the biggest hurdles in business—managing people, both within your team and across external relationships. As a business owner, the internal challenges of aligning your team, communicating effectively, and driving a unified vision can often feel isolating. Today, we'll explore these dynamics, drawing from my own experiences, hard-earned lessons, and practical advice to help you foster a team that's not only productive but also aligned with your vision. We'll also touch on the importance of self-growth and emotional intelligence in leadership—tools that will empower you to navigate business challenges with resilience and clarity. Join us for a conversation about overcoming one of the most significant obstacles in business, so you can take your company to new heights.

In this episode, we dive deep into what it takes to grow your service business beyond the $1 million mark. Scaling a business can feel overwhelming, but it all starts with identifying the right tasks to delegate and breaking free from limiting beliefs. Join us as we explore the thought processes, strategies, and actions that helped us grow our business faster than ever. Whether you're stuck wearing too many hats or wondering how to buy back your time, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to take your business to the next level. Learn how to shed tasks, empower your team, and focus on high-impact areas to unlock new growth and opportunities. If you're ready to break through the $1M barrier, this episode is for you!

In this episode, we sit down with James Budwin to discuss his journey balancing entrepreneurship, family, and community involvement. James shares insights from his experience managing two businesses, his involvement in politics, and coaching youth sports. We dive into how he navigates challenges, finds work-life balance, and leverages key partnerships to keep moving forward. If you're looking for practical advice on managing multiple roles while staying motivated, this episode is packed with value. Tune in for inspiration on overcoming obstacles and building something meaningful, no matter the odds.

In this episode, we're talking about the ups and downs of running a business when life throws curveballs. From hurricanes messing with our schedule to making tough calls at the last minute, we share how we kept things moving and the lessons we learned along the way. Tune in for some real talk on handling business disruptions, keeping your team calm, and bouncing back stronger. Whether it's a storm or any unexpected challenge, this episode is all about staying flexible and finding your way through the chaos.

In this special episode, we're joined by Bree, our amazing sales manager, as we dive into the key takeaways from the Mile High Profit Summit. From reflecting on contractor culture and the genuine sense of community to celebrating the end of an era, we share the valuable lessons we learned. Bree highlights the importance of being grateful for problems, while we discuss leadership, networking, and the little things that make a big difference in the contractor world. Tune in to hear why different is better than better and how celebrating wins can energize your team for success.

we dive into the inspiring journey of Oliver Fernandez, a contractor who went from $500k in debt to securing over $100 million in projects. Oliver shares his story of resilience, risk-taking, and how he navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship—balancing family, business, and the pressures of government contracts. We explore how target setting and team-building strategies helped him grow his company and achieve monumental success. If you're an entrepreneur or business owner looking for insight on overcoming financial hardship, scaling your company, and staying focused amidst challenges, this interview is packed with valuable lessons. Learn from Oliver's experience, from managing millions in contracts to balancing family life and staying motivated in the face of adversity.

In this episode, we dive deep into the challenges many entrepreneurs face—self-doubt, impostor syndrome, and the fear of failure. We explore how to keep moving forward, even when uncertainty and anxiety threaten to halt progress. Drawing from personal experiences in both business and life, the discussion emphasizes the importance of resilience, pushing through discomfort, and embracing the unknown as part of the entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're just starting or scaling your business, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship.

In this episode of the Grow Calm Podcast, we welcome our new team member Jean, as we dive into an insightful conversation about the importance of culture, marketing, and growth in business. Jean shares his experiences in both large and small companies, highlighting what makes Scooters stand out—its natural, inclusive team culture and a commitment to pushing boundaries. Together, we explore the challenges of adapting to change, the power of marketing in scaling a business, and how personal branding can drive success. Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or someone looking to grow, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. Tune in to hear about navigating risks, embracing discomfort, and inspiring growth in your personal and professional life.

In this episode, we dive into the reality of career low points and the tough moments that shape every business owner's journey. From key team members quitting unexpectedly to major project setbacks, I share personal stories of challenges and failures that pushed me to my limits. The goal is to remind you that no matter how successful you appear, everyone faces their own battles. Learn how to turn setbacks into valuable lessons, stay resilient, and keep pushing forward.

In this episode of "Grow by Design," we dive deep into the importance of perseverance and why quitting should never be celebrated. We explore how persistence shapes success, the hidden costs of giving up, and the impact quitting has on your personal and professional life. Tune in for a no-nonsense conversation that challenges the culture of participation trophies and highlights the true value of resilience, grit, and pushing through tough times.

In this episode of Grow by Design, we explore the critical connection between fitness and business success. Learn how maintaining your health can boost your performance as a leader, increase your energy, and extend your career longevity. We dive into three practical tips that you can start using today to improve your fitness, from viewing food as fuel to reducing processed foods and setting fitness goals. Whether you're looking to trim up, build muscle, or simply feel better, these strategies will help you on your journey.

In this episode, we dive deep into the inevitable stress that comes with life and business. Learn actionable strategies for managing stress through planning and preparation, focusing on what you can control, and finding healthy outlets. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by work or just life's daily challenges, this episode offers insights and real-life examples to help you build resilience and handle whatever comes your way. Perfect for anyone looking to turn stress into strength.

In this episode of Grow by Design, we dive into one of the most frequently asked questions: "How do you schedule your day?" Jacob Godar shares actionable tips on how to stay organized, prioritize tasks, and avoid feeling overwhelmed, especially during busy seasons. Learn the importance of finishing your day before it starts, how to effectively use tools like Google Calendar and Trello, and the benefits of 90-day planning. If you're looking to get more done, stay on top of your goals, and create a more balanced life, this episode is for you. Tune in and take control of your time!

In this episode of "Grow by Design," we delve into the importance of setting big goals and the impact they can have on your personal and professional growth. Discover why aiming high is essential, how to push beyond your comfort zone, and what to do if you fall short. Learn from my own experiences and challenges, and gain insights to help you set and achieve ambitious goals that drive real progress. Whether you're a business owner or striving for personal excellence, this episode is packed with valuable tips to inspire you.Link for training day belowhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/933572349027?aff=oddtdtcreator

Join us as we dive into the importance of making hard decisions and doing challenging tasks to grow your business. Learn how to:Embrace the toughest choices as indicators of growthDevelop resilience and strength through physical and mental challengesNavigate financial and personnel decisions effectivelyCultivate a mindset that thrives on overcoming obstaclesDon't miss this episode if you're ready to transform your business and personal life by tackling the hard things head-on. Plus, get details about our upcoming Training Day event on October 12th!Link for training day belowhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/933572349027?aff=oddtdtcreator

In this episode of "GROW by Design," we delve into the crucial aspects of pricing strategies for lawn care and landscaping services in 2024. We discuss the importance of understanding market trends, optimizing pricing with technology, and managing rising costs. Listeners will gain insights on how to handle price objections, create value for clients, and stand out without undercutting competitors. Plus, learn about an upcoming Training Day event in Cape Coral, Florida, designed to help business owners grow and succeed. Perfect for anyone looking to refine their pricing strategies and improve their business operations.Link for training day belowhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/933572349027?aff=oddtdtcreator