Welcome back to another enlightening episode of "The Better Contractor" podcast! This week we’ll discuss propelling your business to success through business transformation, and the vital role of mentorship, innovation, and data-driven strategies that are shaping the future of the landscaping industry. We’re joined by Heather Dirksen, a seasoned professional from Canopy Service Partners. Heather's journey is as intriguing as it is diverse: from serving in the military as an air traffic controller to piloting aircraft and eventually diving into the world of contracting and tree services.

During our conversation, Heather shares insights from her extensive experiences, including living and working in various countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo, and Dubai. Her transition from military life to civilian contracting offers valuable lessons in adaptability and seizing opportunities.

Heather's role at Canopy Service Partners involves supporting contractors with everything from HR and payroll to marketing and operational software implementation. Through her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of leveraging data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement to drive success in the contracting industry.

Throughout the episode, Heather and our hosts explore topics such as mentorship, the value of systems and processes, and the significance of customer trust in business growth. From discussing the benefits of CRM systems to the power of 360-degree feedback, Heather's insights provide a roadmap for leaders looking to thrive in today's competitive landscape.

So whether you're a seasoned professional seeking new perspectives or a newcomer navigating the industry, tune in to "The Better Contractor" podcast for actionable advice and inspiring stories to help you excel in your journey ahead. Don't forget to connect with Heather on LinkedIn for more valuable insights and updates on her consulting ventures.

#treecare #landscaping #leadership #mentorship #Innovation #lawncare #veteran

Welcome back to another insightful episode of The Better Contractor Podcast! In this episode, we delve into the world of tree care and media with our special guest, Joel Spooner, founder of InTree Media.

Discover the power of visual storytelling to transform the perception of tree care, highlighting the essential blend of safety, emotion, and professionalism that elevates our industry? Join us as we uncover the passion and purpose behind Joel's journey and his mission in the tree care industry.

From climbing trees in his childhood backyard to mentoring under industry experts and arborists like Matt Beaty, Elliot Wright, and Dan Holliday. Joel shares how his diverse background in forestry and photography led to the creation of InTree Media. Learn how Joel's innovative approach is reshaping the way tree care companies present themselves to the world.

We discover the importance of culture and mentorship in fostering employee engagement and business growth. We also explore practical strategies for leveraging media to build trust, connect with customers, and stand out in a competitive market.

Whether you're a tree care professional, business owner, or simply curious about the intersection of media and industry, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact.

Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below! How are you leveraging media to elevate your business or industry? We'd love to hear from you.

Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion. Hit play now and embark on a journey to reimagine the tree care industry through the lens of media innovation. Let's grow together!

The Better Contractor Podcast focuses on discussing various aspects of safety and more within the lawncare, hardscaping, and tree care industry. Hosted by industry experts, the podcast delves into topics such as the importance of safety and innovations in PPE, and solutions for common safety challenges we face in the field.

In this episode, Brent Oberlink, and his guest, John Nollner from Pyramex Safety, discuss the significance of proper fitting PPE and the role of innovative safety solutions in preventing workplace injuries. They explore the evolution of safety equipment, including advancements in hard hats and high-visibility clothing, and the importance of aesthetics in encouraging PPE compliance among workers. Additionally, they highlight the proactive approach of Pyramex Safety in collaborating with industry stakeholders to address safety concerns and develop tailored solutions for end-users.

In this enlightening episode of The Better Contractor Podcast, host Brent Oberlink is joined by Travis May, Jon Keck, and Tucker Willms, CEO of Arrow Valley Landscaping, to unravel the intricacies of marketing in the digital age.   With a focus on the lawn care, landscaping, and tree care industries, they delve into effective techniques and strategies that can elevate a company’s online presence and client engagement. Discover how Tucker transformed his approach to marketing, embracing digital tools and social platforms to cultivate a premium brand identity and drive substantial business growth.   This episode is a treasure trove of insights for industry leaders seeking to navigate the digital terrain and reap the rewards of a well-tended online strategy. Join us as we learn how to plant the seeds of digital marketing success and watch your business flourish.

In the fourth episode of The Better Contractor Podcast, we dive deep into a critical topic that's at the heart of every successful business - the balance between words and actions when it comes to core values.  Join host Brent Oberlink as he welcomes esteemed guests who have navigated the intricate landscape of core values in business. Together, we explore how a company's stated values should align with its actual practices. Are your core values just words on a wall or a true reflection of your company's culture and actions?  This thought-provoking episode delves into real-life examples, challenges, and solutions surrounding core values in the contracting industry. Discover why walking the talk is essential, and gain valuable insights on how to ensure your business upholds its core values in both words and actions.  Don't miss this engaging discussion on "Words vs. Actions: The Core Value Dilemma in Business." Tune in for actionable takeaways that can transform your contracting business for the better.

In Episode 3 of "The Better Contractor Podcast," host Brent Oberlink leads a compelling discussion on the concept of value in the contracting industry. Joined by industry experts, Brent delves into why prioritizing quality over cost is essential for contractors aiming to deliver superior results. Through insightful anecdotes and practical examples, this episode sheds light on how redefining value can positively impact businesses and client relationships. Whether you're a seasoned contractor or new to the industry, this episode offers valuable perspectives on enhancing your approach to delivering exceptional value in your projects. Tune in to gain valuable insights that can elevate your contracting business to new heights.  Follow us on all socials  @TheBetterContractor 

Host Brent Oberlink is joined by industry experts Travis May, Strategy and Operations Manager, and Jon Keck, Project Manager and LiDAR drone pilot. Together, they explore the pivotal role of innovation and technology in the lawn landscaping and hardscaping fields. Join them as they discuss how they integrate technology into their daily operations to enhance their company's performance. From leveraging cutting-edge tools to embracing new trends, this episode provides valuable insights into staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Tune in as they also share their visions for the future of technology in the field, offering a glimpse into what lies ahead for contractors looking to innovate and thrive. 

Welcome to the first episode of The Better Contractor podcast. Host Brent Oberlink is joined by Travis May and Jon Keck to talk about the modern day challenges inside the contracting space.