Crooked Stripes Podcast

By Brandon Brubacher, Martin Hodder

Two Small-Town Canadians, Brandon and Martin, take you on a journey through the world of lawn care and landscaping, sharing their unique perspectives and valuable insights.

Join these down-to-earth b... more

· Business

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FAQs about Crooked Stripes Podcast:

How many episodes does Crooked Stripes Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 85 episodes available.

Crooked Stripes Podcast episodes:

September 05, 202434: Forging Into Fall
In this episode, Brandon and Martin discuss their recent long weekends and adventures. They talk about barbecues, drinking games, and unexpected trips. They also mention their upcoming plans for the Stripe Life Expo and the giveaways they have planned. The conversation then shifts to fall fertilization and the importance of building a strong root system for the next year. They discuss different products and ratios for fall fertilization and the efficiency of using a stand-on spreader sprayer. In this part of the conversation,
Brandon and Martin discuss various topics related to lawn care and landscaping. They talk about using spreaders and the challenges of using certain types of equipment. They also discuss the benefits of fall lawn care, including fertilizing, liming, and aeration. They touch on the importance of cutting back perennials and grasses in the fall, as well as the potential for re-blooming daylilies. They also mention the possibility of offering winter planters as an additional service. The conversation ends with a discussion about the love-hate relationship with leaves and the start of the leaf season. In this part of the conversation, Brandon and Martin discuss their experiences with managing leaves during the fall season. They talk about the challenges of dealing with a large volume of leaves and the different methods they use to handle them.
They also discuss the possibility of offering leaf removal services to their clients and the potential benefits of partnering with other companies. The conversation then shifts to the topic of snow removal and the considerations involved in offering this service. They discuss the logistics of snow removal, including the cost of equipment and the challenges of finding reliable employees. They also briefly mention the idea of using snow stakes for marking driveways. In this final part of the conversation, Brandon and Martin discuss the cutthroat nature of the snow removal industry and share some funny stories about their experiences on the job. They also talk about their preferences for mowing, including whether they prefer to work alone or with a team, and their favorite time of year to mow. Martin shares his strategy for marketing additional services to customers.
Takeaways:
Using a stand-on spreader sprayer can greatly improve efficiency when applying fall fertilizers.

Fall fertilization is important for building a strong root system for the next year.

Cutting back perennials and grasses in the fall helps prepare the garden for the next season.

Creating a positive company culture and showing appreciation to your employees can help retain them

Customers value reliability and quality over cheap deals

Late September and early October are favourite times of year to mow

Marketing additional services to customers can lead to more business opportunities
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
...more
1h 18min
August 27, 202433: "The Landscaper Loop"- Concrete Quandaries and a Side of Beer
In this conversation, Martin and Brandon discuss their upcoming snow season and their plans to expand their business. They also talk about recent projects they've completed, including a patio job and the challenges they faced. They mention the use of lawn signs for advertising and the effectiveness of social media in attracting customers. The conversation also touches on the discovery of a concrete slab in the middle of a patio project and the potential solutions for dealing with it. They end the conversation by discussing a safety recall on Dewalt battery-operated push mowers.
Martin discuss’s the dangers of electric chainsaws and the need for safety precautions. They also talk about using AI technology for marketing and the challenges of finding space for their businesses. They answer questions about weed management and the benefits of taking an IPM course. They also mention the progress of Isaiah's tryouts for the Moncton team and the efficiency of the stand-on sprayer. The conversation ends with a discussion about the pricing structure of hourly versus job-based contracts. In this final part of the conversation, Brandon and Martin discuss their pricing strategies and how they bill their clients. They talk about the pros and cons of hourly rates versus per job rates, and the importance of setting minimums. They also share their thoughts on giving perks to their employees to keep them from leaving, such as company culture and small gestures of appreciation. The conversation ends with a fun discussion about different types of beer and a humorous question about who would win in a fight between Sticks and Bricks Landscaping and three eight-year-olds with hockey sticks.
Takeaways:
Lawn signs can be an effective way to attract customers, but their effectiveness may vary depending on the location and market.

Planning for the snow season and expanding the business requires careful consideration of resources and customer demand.

AI technology can be used for marketing and improving efficiency in business operations.

Creating a positive company culture and showing appreciation to your employees can help retain them
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
...more
1h 14min
August 20, 202432: Weather Woes, Trade Show Tales, and Tool Talk
In this episode, Brandon and Martin catch up on their recent landscaping projects and discuss the unpredictable weather in their respective areas. They also talk about upcoming plans, including attending the Equip Expo trade show. They reminisce about their experiences at previous trade shows and express excitement for the upcoming event.
Brandon and Martin discuss their plans for an upcoming event and their experiences from the previous year. They also talk about their sales strategies and the challenges of balancing sales and field work. They rank the body parts that are most likely to be hit by a trimmer, and Martin explains the use of Fiesta, a weed control product. They also discuss the value of landscape lighting in installations. In this part of the conversation, Brandon and Martin discuss landscape installations, landscape lighting, their favorite things to build, and a rapid-fire round of overrated or underrated hand tools.
In this final part of the conversation, Martin and Brandon discuss various tools and equipment used in their landscaping work. They talk about leaf blowers, cameras for filming content, wheelbarrows, and power tools like quick cut saws. They also touch on the importance of taking care of their bodies and making efficient choices. Martin mentions his plans for bush hogging and the upcoming trip to Kentucky.
Takeaways:
Landscaping projects can be challenging but rewarding when customers are satisfied

Attending trade shows provides opportunities to network and learn about new products and trends

Taking care of one's body and making efficient choices are essential for long-term success in the landscaping industry.
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
...more
1h 23min
August 13, 202431: Moon Mist on a Monday
In this episode, the guys discuss the current weather conditions and their lawn care businesses. They talk about the challenges of mowing lawns in extreme heat and the differences in weather between their locations. They also discuss the upcoming changes in their teams and how they plan to manage the workload. The conversation then shifts to their recent soil job and Martin's ability to estimate measurements without seeing the job in person.
They also talk about Austin Dillon's NASCAR win and the upcoming trip to Equip Expo. The conversation covers various topics including sports, landscaping tools, and a landscaping project. They discuss the return of sports, with a focus on lacrosse and breakdancing in the Olympics. They also talk about their preferred landscaping tools, such as the square shovel and half-moon edger. The conversation then shifts to a landscaping project they worked on, describing the amount of sod, topsoil, and plants they used.
Takeaways:
Extreme heat can make mowing lawns challenging and may require adjustments to the mowing schedule.

Attending industry events like Equip Expo can provide valuable networking opportunities and insights into the latest trends and technologies. Sports like lacrosse and breakdancing are gaining popularity and being included in major events like the Olympics.

Large landscaping projects require careful planning and coordination, with considerations for the amount of sod, topsoil, and plants needed.

Moon Mist ice cream is an East Coast classic, with flavours of banana, grape, and bubblegum.
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
...more
1h 4min
August 09, 202430: Shingles, Shrubs & Dirt Dilemmas
The fellas catch up after a few weeks not on together and discuss various topics, including Ken's pickleball tournament, buying new trucks, and dealing with shingles. They also touch on the challenges faced by solo landscapers and the importance of having backup plans. The conversation revolves around the topic of landscaping and lawn care, specifically focusing on the challenges and decisions related to maintaining a fleet of trucks and growing a business. The speakers discuss the high costs of equipment and repairs, the benefits of buying new trucks, and the importance of budgeting and financial planning. They also touch on the growth of their businesses, the use of technology and marketing strategies, and the importance of customer education. The conversation ends with a discussion about the benefits of lime application for soil health and weed control.
The conversation revolves around the topic of lawn care and landscaping. The main themes discussed include the importance of grass height, the impact of weather conditions on lawns, the benefits of using bagged soil and mulch, and the time and cost savings associated with using bags instead of bulk materials.
In this final part of the conversation, Brandon and Martin discuss the logistics of transporting and using bulk materials like mulch and soil. They calculate the volume and weight of materials that can fit in a dump truck and discuss the advantages of using bagged soil. They also talk about their experiences with broken bones and shingles, and share their preferences for draft beer versus bottled/canned beer. Martin expresses his dislike for campfires and the lingering smell they leave on clothes. The conversation ends with a discussion about upcoming episodes and the plans for the next week.
Takeaways:
Catching up with friends and colleagues is important for maintaining relationships.

Buying new trucks and vehicles is a significant investment for businesses and requires careful consideration.

Technology, such as Jobber, can be a valuable tool for managing customer communication, marketing campaigns, and tracking customer engagement.

Solo landscapers face unique challenges and should have backup plans in place for emergencies or unexpected situations. Managing a fleet of trucks and equipment can be expensive, and it's important to budget and plan for repairs and replacements.
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
...more
1h 32min
August 02, 202429: Building a Strong Community on Social - Featuring Kristine Sondergaard
In this conversation, Brandon, Martin, and Kristine discuss their strategies for building strong communities on social media. They emphasize the importance of consistency, engagement, and authenticity in growing a following. They also discuss the shift from using social media as a lead generation platform to focusing on community building.
Krristine shares tips on creating a content strategy, including the use of prompts and longer captions. They also touch on the use of hashtags and the importance of using relevant keywords. In this conversation, Kristine shares her insights on social media strategies and tips for landscaping businesses. She discusses the importance of niche targeting, using location tags, and leveraging Instagram and TikTok for community building and audience growth. Kristine also emphasizes the value of personal branding, storytelling, and engaging with brands for collaborations. She provides recommendations for tools like Later, Notion, and CapCut to streamline social media management.
Overall, the conversation offers practical advice for landscaping businesses looking to enhance their social media presence.
Takeaways
Consistency and engagement are key to building a strong community on social media.

Create and personal connection with followers help to establish a loyal following.

Personal branding is essential for establishing a connection with the audience, and sharing behind-the-scenes stories and lifestyle content can help build trust and loyalty.

Tools like Later, Notion, and CapCut can streamline social media management and content creation for landscaping businesses.

Kristine: Through my business, Versant Creative Studio, I offer social media management, content strategy, and brand photography! My goal is to help burnt-out business owners achieve sustainable growth on socials so they can enjoy life, offline.
Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/versantcreative/
or TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@versantcreative (https://www.tiktok.com/@versantcreative)
Access my 50 FREE Content Hooks Guide here: https://versantcreative.myflodesk.com/
And last but not least, check out my website:
https://www.versantcreative.com/
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
...more
1h 8min
July 26, 202428: Burnouts, Pit Stops, and Pickleball - Featuring Stripe Life Kenny Morris
In this conversation, Brandon and Ken discuss their recent trip to a NASCAR race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the Brickyard 400 and their experiences with the Senix Power Tools team. They talk about their initial skepticism of NASCAR and how they were pleasantly surprised by the excitement and atmosphere of the race. They also discuss Ken's back injury and how the Senix blower has helped him with his lawn care work.
They express their gratitude to the Senix team and their excitement for future opportunities together. The conversation also includes their friendly banter and plans for future adventures. In this conversation, Brandon and Ken discuss various topics related to their experiences in the landscaping industry. They talk about the challenges of running a business, the importance of building relationships with customers, and the excitement of attending trade shows. They also touch on the value of quality equipment and the joy of giving back to the community.
Overall, the conversation highlights the passion and dedication that Brandon and Ken have for their work.
Special thanks to Senix team of Scott, Rocky and Gustov for an amazing weekend.
Takeaways:
Attending a NASCAR race can be a thrilling and eye-opening experience, even for those who are not initially interested in the sport.

Building relationships with brands like Senex and Ferris can lead to exciting opportunities and experiences.

Professional athletes, like NASCAR drivers, are just regular people who appreciate genuine conversations and interactions.

Attending trade shows is an exciting opportunity to connect with industry professionals and learn about new products and trends.

Senix is a great new and upcoming company that understand their customers and have fantastic people running the company
Senix Tools Website
https://senixtools.com/
Ken’s Stripe Life Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/StripeLifeUSA/
https://www.instagram.com/stripelifecanada/⁠
https://www.instagram.com/hodderlandscaping/⁠
https://www.instagram.com/senixtools/
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
...more
1h 21min
July 17, 202427: Beer, Blooms and Unexpected Escapades
In this conversation, Brandon and Martin discuss various topics including the weather, lawn care, MLB home run derby national anthem, and their plans for a potential golf tournament.
They also talk about their allergies and beer preferences. Martin shares that he is allergic to grass, which surprises some people. They end the conversation by inviting listeners to join them for a golf tournament and drinks. The conversation revolves around the topic of beer and the different occasions and situations in which it is enjoyed.
Brandon and Martin discuss their experiences working in landscaping and lawn care. They talk about their long work hours, the challenges of working in extreme weather conditions, and the importance of staying hydrated. They also share their preferences for hot tubs over cold tubs, cookies over cupcakes, and sweating in cold weather over sneezing in hot weather.
Takeaways:
Martin is allergic to grass, which surprises some people

Unexpected beers can lead to memorable and fun nights.

Staying hydrated is crucial when working in hot weather.

The conversation is light-hearted and filled with humor

The boys catching up
⁠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
...more
1h 6min
July 09, 202426: Halfway There and Still Kicking - Featuring Martin & Brandon
In this conversation, Brandon and Martin discuss their half-year review of their landscaping business. They talk about their podcast's progress, their upcoming expo, and their new team member. They also discuss the different patterns they use to create stripes on lawns and share their favourite patterns. In this part of the conversation, Brandon and Martin discuss their favourite jobs and the new services they have added to their landscaping business. They talk about the challenges and successes they have experienced, including their podcast and partnerships with other companies. They also mention the impact of social media on their business and the funny comments they receive.
Overall, they reflect on the growth and progress they have made in their business this year. The conversation covers various topics including social media, ups and downs of the year, and interactions with other landscape companies.
The hosts discuss how they navigate social media and maintain a balance between professionalism and humour. They also share their ups and downs of the year, including equipment breakdowns and the success of their business. They talk about the challenges of dealing with difficult customers and the importance of having a good team. The conversation ends with a discussion about the mower wave, a gesture of camaraderie among landscape companies. In this final part of the conversation, Martin and Brandon discuss the camaraderie among landscapers and the tradition of giving mower waves. They share funny stories of their employees waving to everyone they pass, and the friendly competition to be the one waving out the window. They also discuss the importance of experience over education when hiring employees, the benefits of starting work early, and the preference for accuracy over speed in their work. They both express their preference for achieving modest success on purpose rather than relying on accidental success. They reflect on the past six months of podcasting and look forward to the future.
Takeaways:
The hosts reflect on the progress of their landscaping business and podcast after six months.

Brandon and Martin share their favorite patterns for creating stripes on lawns.

Adding new services can help expand the business and attract more customers.

Equipment breakdowns can be a challenge, but having a good team and reliable mechanics can help overcome them.

Starting work early can provide more productive hours in the day and a sense of purpose.
Follow our personal business Instagram 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
...more
1h 25min
July 08, 202425: Poison Ivy Delays - Featuring Martin & Brandon
On a Sunday Speical, Brandon and Martin discuss their recent battle with poison ivy and the challenges it posed. They also talk about their busy schedules, the recent holidays, and the high cost of living. They answer questions from listeners about services to sell during the summer heat and drought, and share their plans for the future. In this part of the conversation, They also talk about using Jobber to manage tasks and track maintenance work. They mention their plans for the Expo and the possibility of meeting up with other members of the StripeLife community. In this part of the conversation, Martin and Brandon discuss tips and tricks to avoid mental burnout during the season. They also talk about their favorite flavors of Monster energy drinks. Martin shares his experience with snow removal in Ontario and how the winters have changed over the years. They also mention a viral Facebook video of Martin plowing snow that received a lot of attention and sparked heated debates in the comments. In this final part of the conversation, Brandon and Martin discuss various topics, including dealing with angry coworkers and customers, the importance of keeping a clean truck, and the rapid passage of time. They also mention the positive feedback they've received from listeners all over the world. The episode ends with a reminder to rate and review the podcast.
Takeaways:
The summer heat and drought can impact the types of services that can be offered.

The cost of living continues to rise, making it challenging for businesses and individuals.

Pruning, pressure washing, and driveway resurfacing are some services that can be offered during the summer. Using Jobber to manage tasks and track maintenance work

Engaging in hobbies or activities that you enjoy can help relieve stress.

https://www.instagram.com/thecrookedstripes/⁠
Follow our personal business Instagram 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
...more
1h 17min

FAQs about Crooked Stripes Podcast:

How many episodes does Crooked Stripes Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 85 episodes available.

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