TOK - FEB. 10 - EMILIA FREE - THE BUG STOPS HERE

After 25 years in business on Long Island, you would think that no one would doubt the killing ability of Emilia Free or her pest control company, The Bug Stops Here. But If anyone does, her many loyal customers "bug" to differ. (that's right!)

Ex-exterminator, Comedian Larry Izzo always finds the top guys (and the occasional gal) to talk about their experiences in business and pest control, and Emilia fits the bill.

Being a woman in a male-dominated industry actually is a net plus, as she knows how to calm certain new customers who may be encountering an unexpected intrusion of the insect or rodent variety. Her gender, however, isn't what defines her.

Her professionalism, high level of customer service and genuine care and concern for people set her apart in a field not necessarily regarded as a "people" business. Emilia has that rare ability to understand the personal needs and problems of her customers and to make it her business to efficiently and professionally solve those problems.

Yes, that generally involves killing everything in the customer's home or business that can be legally killed without a hunting license. But Emilia has played 911 operator, therapist and motivational speaker to many of her clients, and in this way, continues to make the world a better place by really helping people as well as reliably and safely killing bugs and rodents.

Larry's interview with Emilia Free will make you laugh.