In this 77th episode, Brandon Brubacher and Martin Hodder dive into the spring rush in landscaping—covering everything from health habits and equipment upgrades to weather challenges and time management. They share insights on customer service, staff training, and the benefits of outsourcing, along with how social media and community feedback shape their business. Plus, they touch on new merch, regulations, and their favourite services, all while keeping things real (and funny) with behind-the-scenes stories.

Takeaways:

• Spring rush brings both physical challenges and business opportunities.
• Health and nutrition can suffer during busy work periods.
• Upgrading equipment can lead to increased efficiency and better service.
• Innovative communication tools can streamline operations in landscaping.
  Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights—and a few laughs.

Other Links:

👕

👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada
🌿 Hodder Landscaping: @hodderlandscaping
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In this episode, Colton Medlin shares his journey from demo guy to Ferris All In Lawn Equipment dealer. He opens up about the challenges of launching his dealership, the learning curve of small business ownership, and the importance of strong customer relationships. Colton emphasizes being personable, building brand identity, and going "all in" on your business.

He and Brandon Brubacher dive into key topics in the outdoor power equipment industry—investing in the right gear, managing dealer brands, and adapting to electric mowers. They also touch on brand partnerships, social media strategies, and balancing business with personal life. This episode offers real insights into entrepreneurship, networking, and growing a business in the evolving lawn care industry.

Takeaways:

• Colton transitioned from a demo guy to a dealer due to a unique opportunity.
• He emphasizes the need for a strong brand identity with 'All In Lawn Equipment'.
• Customer relationships are key to business growth.
• Entrepreneurship demands constant availability and dedication.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights—and a few laughs.

Other Links:

Colten’s Instagram: @Coltonmedlinallinlawnequipment
👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada
🌿 Hodder Landscaping: @hodderlandscaping
📋 Get a FREE 14-Day Trial of Jobber + Partner Discount:
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In this episode, the hosts welcome back Gib, who shares his recent experience of breaking his ankle during a weekend trip. The conversation flows into light-hearted discussions about cornhole and darts, revealing the camaraderie and fun in their games. They also touch on the challenges of running a lawn care business, including customer expectations and the importance of building relationships. The episode wraps up with insights into lawn care techniques and equipment, as well as thoughts on business growth and future plans. 

Takeaways:

• Gib shares his humorous injury story from a weekend trip.
• Customer expectations can be challenging in the lawn care business.
• Lawn care techniques can vary based on the job requirements.
• Business growth often comes from adapting to customer needs.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights—and a few laughs.

Other Links:
👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada
🌿 Hodder Landscaping: @hodderlandscaping
📋 Get a FREE 14-Day Trial of Jobber + Partner Discount:
getjobber.com

In this episode, Brandon Brubacher and Martin Hodder dive into the spring challenges landscapers face—from customer budget cuts to rising real estate costs. They discuss weather impacts, efficient mulching, innovative equipment, client relationships, and the importance of health on the job. With stories from the field and a few laughs, they explore community ties, competition, and future growth in the landscaping industry.

They cover:

• Customers are cutting back on budgets this spring.
• Innovative equipment can improve efficiency in landscaping tasks.
• Understanding market dynamics is key to adapting business strategies.
• Hydration is crucial for health during landscaping work.
  

Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights—and a few laughs.

Other Links:
🌐 Green Frog Website Design: greenfrogwebdesign.com
👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada
🌿 Hodder Landscaping: @hodderlandscaping
📋 Get a FREE 14-Day Trial of Jobber + Partner Discount:
getjobber.com

In this episode, Brandon Brubacher sits down with Devin White from Ultimate Land Care to dig into the realities of running a full-service landscaping company through unpredictable Canadian seasons. From navigating the messy transition between snow and summer to implementing advanced spraying techniques for better lawn health, Devin shares what it takes to stay ahead in this evolving industry.

They cover:

• The chaos (and opportunity) of spring cleanups

• How to keep business rolling year-round despite seasonal slowdowns

• Equipment upgrades, weed control tips, and top dressing strategies

• Building long-term client relationships and delivering excellent service

• A wild story about Brandon's push mower catching fire on the job 🔥

Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights—and a few laughs.

Follow Devin:
🌱 Instagram: @ultimatelandcare

Other Links:
🌐 Green Frog Website Design: greenfrogwebdesign.com
Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada
Hodder Landscaping: @hodderlandscaping
📋 Get a FREE 14-Day Trial of Jobber + Stripe Life Discount:
getjobber.com

In this episode of Crooked Stripes, hosts Brandon Brubacher and Martin Hodder welcome Dylan Hamilton, a property maintenance expert specializing in cottage care and Airbnb management. The conversation covers various topics, including the challenges of seasonal weather, the intricacies of managing cottage properties, and the importance of effective snow removal and lawn care services. Dylan shares insights into his business operations, client expectations, and the equipment he uses, providing valuable tips for those in the landscaping and property maintenance industry. In this conversation, Dylan Hamilton discusses the balance between growth and maintaining a manageable business size, the expansion into travel trailer rentals, and the importance of community trust and marketing strategies. He shares insights on preparing for the upcoming season and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the significance of social media presence and niche specialization.

Takeaways

• Dylan Hamilton is a property maintenance expert focusing on cottages and Airbnbs.
• Weather significantly impacts spring cleanups and planning for landscaping services.
• Airbnb management includes both outdoor maintenance and interior cleaning services.
• The travel trailer rental business has been a successful side venture.
• He uses local Facebook groups to connect with potential clients.

Dylans Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/hamiltonandsons/

Green Frog Website Design

https://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

Personal Pages:

https://www.instagram.com/stripelifecanada/⁠

https://www.instagram.com/hodderlandscaping/⁠

Jobber FREE 14 Day Trial and Stripe Life Discount

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In this episode, Brandon and Martin discuss the unpredictable weather as they prepare for a snowstorm, Martin's upcoming birthday, and the challenges of starting their landscaping work in spring. They share stories of day drinking at local events, travel mishaps, and the importance of community engagement through local events. The conversation also touches on the challenges of running a landscaping business, including client expectations and the need for clear communication. In this engaging conversation, Brandon Brubacher and Martin Hodder discuss the challenges of city commuting, the joys of cottage getaways, and the latest innovations in lawn care equipment. They share personal anecdotes about weight management in the landscaping industry, experiences with new mowers, and the challenges of snow removal. The conversation also touches on crazy weather stories and local news coverage, providing a humorous and relatable insight into their lives as landscapers. In this conversation, Martin Hodder and Brandon Brubacher discuss various aspects of running a landscaping business, including unexpected challenges like unauthorized dumpster use, preparations for the upcoming spring season, and innovations in gardening techniques. They also touch on branding strategies, the importance of professionalism in their field, and the challenges of acquiring necessary equipment. The dialogue reflects their experiences and insights as they navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship in landscaping.

Takeaways

• Weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring.
• Effective communication with customers is key to managing expectations.
• Day drinking can lead to fun memories and social bonding.
• Community events are important for local engagement.
• Communication with clients is KEY in landscaping.

Green Frog Website Design

https://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

Personal Pages:

https://www.instagram.com/stripelifecanada/⁠

https://www.instagram.com/hodderlandscaping/⁠

Jobber FREE 14 Day Trial and Stripe Life Discount

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In this episode, Brandon and Martin discuss the unpredictable weather patterns affecting their landscaping business, the challenges of spring preparations, and the importance of understanding hardiness zones for planting. They delve into customer communication strategies, particularly regarding prepay options for winter services, and the potential impact of tariffs on the industry. The conversation highlights the economic uncertainty facing local businesses and the need for community support during challenging times. In this conversation, Martin Hodder and Brandon Brubacher discuss the challenges and changes in the landscaping industry as they approach the 2025 season. They emphasize the importance of maintenance, the impact of tariffs on equipment costs, and the slowdown in leads and conversion rates. The duo also explores strategies for adapting to a changing market and evaluates the value of eco lawn equipment in their operations. In this episode, Martin and Brandon discuss various aspects of landscaping, including efficient lawn care techniques, the value of renting equipment, and the challenges of selling items on the marketplace. They also share their morning routines, thoughts on battery-powered tools, and experiences with stand-on mowers. The conversation touches on community support for a local cause and wraps up with a light-hearted discussion about March Madness and friendly competition.

Takeaways

• Weather unpredictability can significantly impact landscaping schedules.
• Effective communication with customers is key to managing expectations.
• Weather can be unpredictable, affecting seasonal activities.
• Tariffs may have a broader economic impact beyond just material costs.

Green Frog Website Design

https://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

Personal Pages:

https://www.instagram.com/stripelifecanada/⁠

https://www.instagram.com/hodderlandscaping/⁠

Jobber FREE 14 Day Trial and Stripe Life Discount

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In this episode, Brandon and Martin discuss various topics ranging from their personal lives to business strategies. They share insights on equipment demonstrations, marketing strategies, and the importance of using software for business management. The conversation also touches on personal reflections about aging and social life, providing a well-rounded view of their experiences. In this conversation, Martin and Brandon discuss various topics ranging from local events and seasonal changes to marketing strategies and the challenges of travel costs. They explore the effectiveness of print marketing in a digital age, share experiences with customer engagement, and reflect on the distractions of social media. The dialogue highlights the importance of adapting marketing strategies to current trends while maintaining productivity in a fast-paced environment. In this episode, Martin and Brandon discuss various topics including productivity tools, the future of autonomous mowers, the challenges of selling items on Facebook Marketplace, and celebrate Kubota's 50th anniversary. They share personal experiences and frustrations, providing insights into the evolving landscape of technology in lawn care and the realities of online selling.

Takeaways

• Demonstrating equipment can significantly influence sales.
• Using software is essential for modern business management.
• Weather can be unpredictable, affecting seasonal activities.
• Business cards can become obsolete if contact information changes.

Green Frog Website Design

https://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

Personal Pages:

https://www.instagram.com/stripelifecanada/⁠

https://www.instagram.com/hodderlandscaping/⁠

Jobber FREE 14 Day Trial and Stripe Life Discount

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In this episode, the hosts discuss the transition into spring, reflecting on the unusual weather patterns and their impact on snow removal operations. They share anecdotes about St. Patrick's Day celebrations and the challenges of managing parties in college towns. The conversation shifts to insights on the landscaping business, including marketing strategies, rising costs, and the importance of maintaining customer expectations. They also delve into the challenges of equipment maintenance and the financial implications of running a landscaping business. In this conversation, Martin and Brandon discuss various aspects of landscaping, including equipment maintenance, the challenges of running a landscaping business, seasonal preparations, and client expectations. They share personal experiences and insights into the industry, emphasizing the importance of understanding pricing and the realities of client interactions. The conversation highlights the camaraderie between the two as they navigate the complexities of their work and reflect on the upcoming season.

Takeaways

• Spring weather is unpredictable and affects business operations.
• St. Patrick's Day celebrations can lead to unexpected challenges in college towns.
• Rising costs in landscaping are impacting pricing and customer expectations.
• The cost of materials and labor continues to rise in the landscaping industry.

Green Frog Website Design

https://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

Personal Pages:

https://www.instagram.com/stripelifecanada/⁠

https://www.instagram.com/hodderlandscaping/⁠

Jobber FREE 14 Day Trial and Stripe Life Discount

https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?pscd=go.getjobber.com&ps_partner_key=YnJhbmRvbmJydWJhY2hlcjY2NjM&ps_xid=6LNgszEn0RHUmo&gsxid=6LNgszEn0RHUmo&gspk=YnJhbmRvbmJydWJhY2hlcjY2NjM