How do you grow a landscaping company without selling your soul—or your business—to private equity? In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes chats with Kelly Slater, the newly promoted CEO of Pleasant Landscapes, about building leaders, planning for a future of employee ownership, and why she’s sticking to her roots (literally).

Kelly shares how her team is developing junior leadership roles, turning employees into stakeholders with phantom stocks, and using AI to make everyday tasks easier. From role-playing sales objections to drafting cooler, calmer emails, AI is freeing up time for the team to focus on big-picture goals—and, of course, ringing the bell for every milestone.

Private equity? Not a chance. Kelly explains why her company is committed to staying independent and how they’re laying the groundwork to become 100% employee-owned. She also dives into the competitive (yet supportive) landscaping industry, sharing why collaboration and rivalry can go hand in hand.

Curious about how Pleasant Landscapes tracks its market share and what they’re doing to grow their slice of the pie? Or how they’ve built a team culture where ownership and leadership go far beyond titles? This episode is packed with ideas to inspire your next move.

Tune in to the FULL episode to learn:

• 🏡 Planning for Employee Ownership: How phantom stocks and leadership development are paving the way for a fully employee-owned company.
• 🌱 The Power of Leadership: Why leading beats managing and how to inspire your team to follow you.
• 🤖 AI for Everyday Efficiency: How AI is helping with sales training, email communication, and financial insights at Pleasant Landscapes.

Press play and discover how to lead your team, grow your business, and make 2025 your best year yet! 🎧

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: landscapersguide.com/podcast

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: landscapersguide.com/toolbox

🔗 Connect with Kelly Slater: www.linkedin.com/in/thekellyslater 

🌐 Learn more about Pleasant Landscapes: www.pleasantlandscapes.com

🌿 Connect with Jack Jostes: www.linkedin.com/in/jackjostes 

📅 Catch us at an upcoming event: landscapersguide.com/events