In this episode of The Crooked Stripes, hosts Brandon Brubacher and Kyle Breiner discuss Kyle's extensive journey in the landscaping industry, starting from his teenage years to becoming a successful business owner. They explore the challenges and rewards of running a landscaping business, the importance of quality work, and the satisfaction that comes from transforming outdoor spaces. The conversation also touches on the ups and downs of business growth, seasonal work, and future aspirations for Breiner Lawn. In this conversation, Brandon Brubacher and Kyle Breiner discuss various aspects of the landscaping business, focusing on hardscaping opportunities, the importance of quality work and networking for new entrepreneurs, and the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance. They share personal experiences, favourite equipment, and the impact of social media on their businesses, emphasizing the significance of community engagement and content creation.

Takeaways:

• Kyle started landscaping at 15 years old.
• He became a right-hand man in a landscaping business.
• Quality work leads to repeat business and referrals.
• Transitioning to full-time landscaping was a significant decision.

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

🅾️ Breiner Lawn @breinerlawn
🌿 Hodder Landscaping: @hodderlandscaping

In this milestone 90th episode, Brandon and Kyle sit down with Trevor Spencer — the mountain man behind Montana Mountain Made.

The crew recaps their wild week at the Equip Expo in Kentucky, where they teamed up for the Stripe Life Truck giveaway.

Trevor shares how he went from butcher to business owner, building his brand in the heart of Montana. They dig into the challenges of working where Yellowstone films, the impact of community, and what’s next for Trevor’s growing brand.

It’s an hour of laughs, gear talk, and real stories from the field — mountain style.

Takeaways:

• Trevor transitioned from a butcher to starting his own lawn care business.
• Transporting the truck to the Expo presented unexpected challenges.
• The importance of brand loyalty in the lawn care community.
• Community and friendship are at the heart of the industry.

• Running a business in Yellowstone country

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. 

Trevor’s Instagram: 

🏔️ @MTMountainMade 

Other Links:👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada

🅾️ Breiner Lawn @breinerlawn
🌿 Hodder Landscaping: @hodderlandscaping

In this episode, Brandon Brubacher and Kyle Breiner discuss their experiences at the Equip Expo, including meeting industry peers, testing new equipment, and the excitement of giveaways. They share insights on the importance of networking, the challenges of running a lawn care business, and the camaraderie within the industry. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes and future plans for the podcast.

Takeaways:

• Equip Expo is a great place for networking and meeting industry peers.
• Testing new equipment at the expo provides valuable insights.
• Running a lawn care business involves unique challenges and rewards.
• Personal anecdotes add a relatable touch to the podcast.

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

We made it to Kentucky, Kyle Breiner and Brandon Brubacher walk around the expo bringing you along the way. Stripe Life gives away their 5th truck. The conversation revolves around the Senix giveaway event at the Equip Expo, featuring interviews with young entrepreneurs, discussions on innovations in lawn care equipment, and the importance of community and networking within the industry. The excitement builds as the giveaway approaches, highlighting the camaraderie and shared experiences of attendees.

Takeaways:

• The Senex giveaway event fosters community engagement.

• Innovations in lawn care equipment are crucial for efficiency.

• The excitement of giveaways creates a lively atmosphere at the Expo.

• The Expo serves as a platform for showcasing the latest in lawn care technology.

This one is a little all over the place!

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
Crooked Stripes Merch https://thecrookedstripes.com/

In this engaging conversation, Brandon Brubacher and Ken Morris discuss the upcoming expo, the excitement surrounding giveaways, and the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into organizing such events. They delve into the evolution of the Stripe Life brand, the importance of community and connection in the lawn care industry, and share tips for first-time attendees. The conversation highlights the significance of brand partnerships, the thrill of new equipment, and the overall positive atmosphere of the expo, encouraging listeners to participate and connect with like-minded individuals.

Other Links:
👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada
🌿 Hodder Landscaping: @hodderlandscaping

📋 Get a FREE 14-Day Trial of Jobber + Partner Discount:
getjobber.comCrooked Stripes Merch https://thecrookedstripes.com/

We’re less than two weeks out from Equip Expo, and the excitement is ramping up fast! In this episode, I’m breaking down my trip to the Ferris factory, sharing what stood out behind the scenes, and diving into all the big things happening at Equip 2025 — from the massive new expansion to the can’t-miss Ferris mower giveaways (yep, two stand-ons, YETIs, and even a truck!).

Plus, I share some real-world social media tips that have been working lately and a few stories from life back home in the field. Buckle up — it’s all gas, no brakes heading into Expo week.

🎟️ Catch Ken and me at the Briggs & Stratton / Ferris booth — Wednesday and Thursday inside, Friday out in the demo area.

Let’s make this the best Equip yet.

Takeaways:

• Brandon discusses the challenges of scheduling and the importance of teamwork.
• The excitement surrounding the upcoming Equip Expo and new product releases.
• The camaraderie among lawn care professionals during the factory visit.

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.comCrooked Stripes Merch https://thecrookedstripes.com/

Brandon Brubacher shares updates on recent adventures, including a busy month of travel, pond building projects, and a surprise bachelor party. He reflects on the challenges and joys of his work, the importance of finding common ground with clients, and the excitement of upcoming events like the Ferris factory visit and the Expo.

Takeaways:

• It's been a busy month with lots of travel and projects.
• Pond building requires careful planning and execution.
• Finding common ground with clients can lead to new opportunities.
• The Expo is a major upcoming event with lots of anticipation.
  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
  Crooked Stripes Merch https://thecrookedstripes.com/

In this episode, Brandon Brubacher shares insights from a busy summer in the lawn care business, discussing the impact of the heat on operations and the importance of maintaining customer relationships. He recounts a memorable NASCAR experience with family, highlighting the excitement of the races and the connections made within the industry. Brandon also teases upcoming projects, including a new mower release from Ferris and a collaboration with Aquascape to install a pond. He reflects on the seasonal dynamics of the business and the challenges faced, encouraging listeners to stay motivated as the summer winds down.

Takeaways:

• It's been a hot summer, affecting business operations.
• Building relationships through maintenance contracts is key.

• Seasonal work dynamics shift after Labor Day.
• NASCAR races provide unique bonding experiences with family.
  

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.comCrooked Stripes Merch https://thecrookedstripes.com/

In this episode, the hosts reflect on their experiences in Elmira, discussing the laid-back atmosphere and local adventures, including golfing and social gatherings. They delve into the importance of networking through social media and trade shows, sharing insights on the fast-paced nature of the lawn care business and the innovations in equipment. The conversation highlights the significance of community and connections made through their podcast, emphasizing the value of learning and sharing experiences in the industry.

Takeaways:

• Elmira offers a laid-back vibe that feels like home.
• Golfing can be a fun way to relax with friends.
• Networking is essential for business growth.
• Trying out new equipment is always exciting.
• Recognizing voices from the podcast is a unique experience.

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.comCrooked Stripes Merch https://thecrookedstripes.com/

Episode Description: Join us for an engaging conversation with Jeremy Kirkham from Clintar, Ottawa, as we dive into the world of snow management. Jeremy shares his journey from pushing snow to becoming an operations manager, overseeing a large team and managing complex operations. We discuss the challenges and rewards of the snow industry, the importance of networking, and the role of organizations like SIMA in fostering community and growth.

Key Topics:

Jeremy's career path and current role at Clintar The dynamics of the snow industry and its seasonal nature Insights into managing large teams and operations The significance of networking and industry events The role of SIMA and other organizations in the snow industry

Guest: Jeremy Kirkham, Operations Manager at Clintar, Ottawa

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.comCrooked Stripes Merch https://thecrookedstripes.com/