In this episode, I sit down with Alex Fransen, the owner of Derby City Pools & Outdoor Living in Louisville, Kentucky. As a contractor in the pool and landscaping industry for the past 28 years, Alex has some serious stories to share about the challenges of scaling his business. Alex opens up about the tough transition his company went through—shifting from a maintenance-focused operation to one centered on construction. He calls it a "monster" that his smaller maintenance side just couldn't keep up with. And finding and keeping good talent to grow those construction teams? A total headache.

But the real eye-opener for Alex was getting his financial house in order. Like many contractors, he was grinding away, working hard, but had no real insight into whether he was actually making money. Once he started using the right software, organizing his books, and tapping into a supportive peer group, everything changed.

Alex shares how getting a handle on his numbers not only gave him peace of mind but also the confidence to scale strategically—without sacrificing quality or his relationships with customers. No more just "working harder"—he's now working smarter.

This conversation is packed with valuable insights for any contractor who feels stuck trying to break through the ceiling of their business. Alex’s story highlights the power of using data to drive decisions and the importance of not just working your butt off but building the right systems and processes to grow sustainably.

https://www.instagram.com/derbycitypools/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

In this episode we sit down with Leo Diez, the owner of Volunteer State Landscapes, from Tennessee. Leo took a chance on himself, previously working as an Irrigation Technician he decided he wanted to pursue a landscaping business and took the plunge. Leo shares his inspiring story of overcoming the fear of starting his own company and the challenges of running a successful landscaping business. We drop some serious truth bombs about the importance of shifting your mindset from blaming everything around you to taking responsibility for your own growth and success. Be ready to get empowered to embrace self-belief, take action, and unlock your true potential.

You can find Leo on Instagram @‌volunteer_state_landscapes

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

This week we’re in Bend, Oregon with our friend and customer Kyle from @‌pacificpinelandscape. We dive into the challenges of building a strong team as a small business owner. Kyle and I discuss the importance of assuming the best intentions when employees make mistakes, rather than taking a blaming approach. This advice was applied in my own life during my Tussey Landscaping days from lessons I learned reading a book called “Extreme Ownership” - where the idea of having to take responsibility for your team’s mistakes was learned.

We go on to share practical tips on fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement to develop loyal, high performing employees. If you’re looking to strengthen your team and drive sustainable growth, give it a listen.

You can find Kyle here: @‌pacificpinelandscape

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

I'm with Rob Picone from Picone Landscaping in New York, having a great discussion on balancing the pressure between growing a business and not letting life blow by and missing the moments that matter.

We also discussed their journey of onboarding SynkedUP into their business, and how important discipline is in any process in your business. It's always easier to keep on doing what you've always done, it takes discipline to grow and improve.

Give Rob and his wife Lisa a follow on Instagram (@piconelandscapingwny)

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

This week I sit down with Joel Lattimer, a Christian entrepreneur who has built a thriving outdoor living and water features business with his brother. As the co-founder of Lattimer Outdoor Living and Waterscapes, Joel seamlessly integrates his faith-based values with his passion for exceptional craftsmanship.

This commitment to doing business with integrity has earned Lattimer Outdoor Living a reputation for quality work and exceptional customer service. When not overseeing design-build projects, Joel enjoys spending quality time with his family - a calling that further reinforces his belief that faith and family are the true foundations for success, both in life and in business.

As an influential voice in the contracting industry, Joel's story serves as a testament to the power of leading with purpose and keeping one's spiritual principles at the forefront.

Connect with Joel: https://www.instagram.com/lattimerinc/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Bio: Christopher Castano started his landscaping business when he was 15, trimming bushes and spreading mulch on his lunch breaks. Fast forward, and he’s now running a thriving design-build company crafting high-end outdoor spaces with his team in North Carolina. In this episode, we dive into how Christopher went from figuring it out on the fly to tackling half-million-dollar projects, training a solid crew, and creating a business that’s all about quality, trust, and timeless designs. Christopher shares insights into hiring, pricing, and maintaining trust with clients while constantly leveling up – one project at a time. 💪

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

This week on the podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Justin Laughter, the owner of Laughter Family Hardscapes in Asheville, North Carolina. Justin’s built a thriving hardscape design and construction business by staying laser-focused on delivering real value to his clients, rather than just building what they want.

Justin shares his design-first approach ensuring his clients get outdoor living spaces that truly meet their needs and lifestyle, not just the latest trends.

Justin's journey has been marked by challenges and successes, but his commitment to his craft, his employees, and his clients has been the driving force behind Laughter Family Hardscapes' continued growth.

Tune in to hear Justin's insights on building a values-driven business, hiring and retaining top talent, and creating exceptional experiences for every client.

https://www.instagram.com/laughterfamilyhardscapes1/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

I sat down with Chris Morales, the founder of Morales Outdoor Living, to uncover the hard-won lessons and successes of his entrepreneurial journey. From humble beginnings with a two-door truck and an $800 trailer, to tackling a once-in-a-lifetime Christmas-themed hotel project, Chris shares his story of passion, perseverance, and the power of building a dedicated team.

As a fellow green industry veteran, I was inspired by Chris's commitment to quality, his investment in company culture, and the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship. We’ll discuss the challenges of delegating tasks, mastering his finances, and balancing the demands of work and family life – challenges that I've faced myself.

This episode is a raw, authentic look at the realities of running a thriving hardscaping business.

Give them a follow: Instagram (@moralesoutdoorliving)

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Today I'm with Jason Gwaltney of Gwaltney Landscaping in North Carolina. We had a fantastic discussion on his business journey, and how he decided to leave his job and strike out on his own. .... And all the challenges that come with that. Second guessing yourself on pricing, hustling to pay the bills, getting dependable help, on and on.

Give Jason a follow on Instagram! He's building some awesome water features!

Instagram (@gwaltneylandscaping_llc)

Home | Gwaltney Landscaping

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

In this episode of The Cost of Doing Business, we sit down with Mike Schellhaas, owner of Schellhaas Landscape Construction, to unpack what it really takes to grow a hardscaping business without bleeding profits. Mike shares his journey from pen-and-paper estimates to leveraging technology, the hard lessons along the way, and why knowing your numbers is critical for your success.

If you’ve ever wondered how to break out of the “more work, same profit” trap, this one’s for you!

@schellhaaslandscapeconst

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: 

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/