The Cost of Doing Business

This one hits deep. In today's episode, I sat down with Robert from Stone Craft Design & Build to unpack what it really takes to scale a construction business. From nearly burning out and losing hundreds of thousands to regaining control, building a team culture that people would yearn to be part of, and finally running a profitable, sustainable business. We talk budgets, mindset shifts, what got him into SynkedUP, and how clarity around his numbers saved his business. This isn't a story about square footage…it's about stepping up and designing your future. Give them a follow on instagram: @stone_craftdesigns If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/ Follow us on Instagram: @SynkedUP

This week I sit down with Marco from Annabelle Landscapes, a loyal customer and a guy who's been through the real trenches of building a business. He tells the story of landing his first big patio job, an $80K project that sounded like a dream at first… until the stress, snow, and not knowing his numbers nearly broke him. That job almost convinced him to walk away from hardscaping entirely. Not because the work was bad - but because his mindset was the real limit. We talk through that shift. From feeling like you've got to do it all yourself to realizing the only way forward is to build systems, trust people, and let go of control. He shares what finally made him commit to using a CRM, how he got his crew to buy in (even when they hated clocking in), and the moment the business stopped feeling like a fight. If you've ever struggled with the fear of leveling up, or felt stuck because everything depended on you, this one's for you. It's not about overnight wins. It's about doing the hard internal work to build something sustainable. Connect with Marco: https://www.instagram.com/annabellelandscapes/ If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/ Follow us on Instagram: @SynkedUP

AJ Wanders from Monolith Artscapes shares what it really looked like to go from self-doubt to confidence in the early days of running his business. As a two-man crew, AJ talks about why he chose to invest in SynkedUP right out of the gate, and how that decision helped him win back his evenings, quote jobs faster, and make decisions with clarity instead of guesswork. He opens up about leaving the comfort of a steady paycheck, navigating mindset struggles, and how knowing his numbers gave him the freedom to put family first. If you've ever thought you're too small for systems or felt the weight of trying to do it all

In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend and fellow pond builder Joey Genovese from Genoscape Inc. They're a full-service landscape construction company specializing in water features. Joey's been in the game over two decades, evolving from general landscaping to becoming one of the most respected water feature specialists in the industry. We dig into everything, from slogging through mud at early Aquascape builds to installing 100-ton boulders in Southern Africa. We talk about surviving the 2008 crash, downsizing smart, building a niche brand, and most importantly… knowing your numbers. It's an unfiltered, real convo about what it takes to go from scrappy craftsmen to sustainable business owner, and the mindset shift that makes all the difference. This ones for you if you're a builder, creator, or business owner trying to make your work profitable and purposeful. Follow Joe on Instagram: @‌genoscape_inc.landscaping If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/ Follow us on Instagram: @SynkedUP

On this special episode of The Cost of Doing Business, I sit down with longtime friend and mentor Greg Wittstock, CEO and Founder of Aquascape. We dive deep into the real, messy journey of transforming a hobby into a thriving business, creating a company culture that lasts, and empowering a team strong enough to run the show without you. "If you're working IN the business, you have a job. If you're working ON the business, you have a company." Greg's straightforward advice years ago was the catalyst that inspired me to start my own company, SynkedUP. Today, we revisit those life changing moments, discussing how setbacks can become stepping stones toward bigger successes, and why letting go is key to growth and entrepreneurial freedom. This conversation is real, raw, and packed with lessons every entrepreneur needs to hear.   If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/ Follow us on Instagram: @SynkedUP

I'm at the HNA Expo in Louisville, recording live with Joel De La Paz from Nuñes Outdoor Living, a family-run landscaping business in northern Michigan. Recording podcasts at tradeshows like this—where we get to sit down with our customers, hear their stories, and learn from their experiences—is one of the most fulfilling parts of what we do. Joel gets real about the biggest challenges they've faced—figuring out their financials, keeping cash flow steady in the off-season, and navigating the dynamics of running a business with family. We dig into how he transitioned from being hands-on in the field to building processes that actually scale, and why networking, mentors, and the right systems (like SynkedUP) made all the difference. Give them a follow them on Instagram: @‌nunezoutdoorliving If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/ Follow us on Instagram: @SynkedUP

In this episode, I sit down with Alex Fransen, the owner of Derby City Pools & Outdoor Living in Louisville, Kentucky. As a contractor in the pool and landscaping industry for the past 28 years, Alex has some serious stories to share about the challenges of scaling his business. Alex opens up about the tough transition his company went through—shifting from a maintenance-focused operation to one centered on construction. He calls it a "monster" that his smaller maintenance side just couldn't keep up with. And finding and keeping good talent to grow those construction teams? A total headache. But the real eye-opener for Alex was getting his financial house in order. Like many contractors, he was grinding away, working hard, but had no real insight into whether he was actually making money. Once he started using the right software, organizing his books, and tapping into a supportive peer group, everything changed. Alex shares how getting a handle on his numbers not only gave him peace of mind but also the confidence to scale strategically—without sacrificing quality or his relationships with customers. No more just "working harder"—he's now working smarter. This conversation is packed with valuable insights for any contractor who feels stuck trying to break through the ceiling of their business. Alex's story highlights the power of using data to drive decisions and the importance of not just working your butt off but building the right systems and processes to grow sustainably. https://www.instagram.com/derbycitypools/ If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

In this episode we sit down with Leo Diez, the owner of Volunteer State Landscapes, from Tennessee. Leo took a chance on himself, previously working as an Irrigation Technician he decided he wanted to pursue a landscaping business and took the plunge. Leo shares his inspiring story of overcoming the fear of starting his own company and the challenges of running a successful landscaping business. We drop some serious truth bombs about the importance of shifting your mindset from blaming everything around you to taking responsibility for your own growth and success. Be ready to get empowered to embrace self-belief, take action, and unlock your true potential. You can find Leo on Instagram @‌volunteer_state_landscapes 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/

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/

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/

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.

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/

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/

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 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 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. 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:  Instagram (@good2great.landscape)   Good 2 Great Landscape     If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

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! Instagram (@toddquality)   Todd Quality Landscape Services, Landscaper, Spring City, PA 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/ 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  Instagram (@morales_masonry_landscaping)   If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/      

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! Contractor Summit Give Jon a follow at: Instagram (@generalpavingstones)   General Pavingstones LLC   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! Instagram (@womerlandscapinginc)   Facebook Womer Landscaping | Pottsville PA   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:  Instagram (@2018toprockdesign)   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! Instagram (@lawninorder_landscapes)   Lawn in Order Landscapes | Best Landscape Design Company If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

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/

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: Instagram (@kindredoutdoorsolutions)  and  Kindred Outdoor Solutions - Landscaping and Hardscape Professionals If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

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/

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  Instagram (@getmowtivated)  and  Get Mowtivated   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. Instagram (@howtohardscape)   If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

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/

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 Landscape Design & Build Services in Park City, Utah & Surrounding Areas | Professional Results If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

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 Alpha Lawn   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. Instagram (@foucelandscaping)   https://foucelandscaping.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: Instagram (@prestonhardscapedesign)   Hardscape Mentor Link Tree   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  Instagram (@havenoutdoorstn)   Swimming Pool Contractor Kingston Springs and Nashville TN | Haven Outdoors 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! Instagram (@supremescapes)   Supreme Scapes - Cincinnati Landscaper   If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

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: Instagram (@reisenlawn) https://www.reisenlawn.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:  Instagram (@primeoutdoorliving)   Prime Outdoor Living | Expert Pool Installation & More If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

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  Instagram (@phaser_marketing)   Digital Marketing for Construction Companies   If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

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/ If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

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:  Instagram (@delraylandscapes)   Del Ray Landscapes 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  Instagram (@fromthegroundup17327)  and check out his website at  From The Ground Up | Landscaping & Hardscaping   If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

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 Instagram (@thunderbirdpgh)   Thunderbird Landscaping If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

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  Instagram (@inca_stone)   Pittsburgh, PA Hardscape and Landscape | Inca Stone   If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

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!  Instagram (@pottedluckpa)   Best Hardscaping & Landscape Design | Potted Luck Landscape 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  Instagram (@mountainstronglandscape) Come to the event that changed everything for Keegan! Contractor Summit | 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/    

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.  Instagram (@neatherylandscapellc) And his website:  Landscape Install & Renovation in Redmond, Prineville & Bend OR - Neathery Landscape If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

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  Instagram (@pride_hardscape) Pride Hardscape Construction LLC (541) 207-6238 Or CCB#219327 Nick Conley  Instagram (@ncoutdoorsinc) NC Outdoors | Outdoor Living Construction | Mendocino Country   If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

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  Instagram (@stateline_landscaping_inc) And check out his website:  Stateline Landscaping If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:  SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/  

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/