Get ready for an incredible journey with Eric Triplett and his guest, John Magyar on today's edition of The Pond Digger Podcast! In this captivating episode, John shares his unbelievable experiences working with whale sharks at major public aquariums before diving into the world of ponds. Discover his unique "fish first" approach to pond building, emphasizing the crucial needs of aquatic life in water feature design. Gain valuable insights into the debates around filtration and the role of rock and gravel, drawing from his extensive background in both aquarium and pond environments. Plus, hear fascinating anecdotes about koi keeping practices in Japan, offering a broader perspective on creating thriving aquatic habitats.

Key Takeaways:

• Always prioritize the needs and well-being of fish when designing a pond.
• Consider the long-term goals for your pond and fish population before construction.
• Explore different filtration methods to maintain a healthy aquatic environment.
• Look to natural ecosystems for inspiration in creating a balanced water feature.
• Understand that personal goals for a pond may evolve over time.

Connect with John: https://www.instagram.com/universal_aquatics/

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Water Garden Expo 2025: WGExpo.com

The All American Koi Show: AllAmericanKoiShow.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

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This live podcast recording from the Water Garden Expo 2025 features a conversation between the Eric and Brian Fitzsimmons of Pondscapes by Fitz, focusing on the topic of scaling a business. Fitzsimmons, who recently opened his ninth location, shares his experiences and insights on when and how to grow a contracting or retail business within the pond industry. The discussion touches upon his early ambitions, a pivotal career shift, and the mindset required for rapid expansion, including his perspective on risk, opportunity, and building a strong team culture. The conversation also explores Fitzsimmons' ventures into koi importation and distribution, his involvement in high-end koi sales, and his future plans for supporting other contractors in the industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Determine what you truly want from your business or career and be clear about your goals.
• Don't be afraid to take calculated risks and seize opportunities when they arise, even if they seem daunting.
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses and build a team around you that complements your skills.
• Focus on what works well and is most profitable in your endeavors and do more of it.
• Cultivate a positive mindset and don't let the fear of failure prevent you from pursuing growth.

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Water Garden Expo 2025: WGExpo.com

The All American Koi Show: AllAmericanKoiShow.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

TWT Contractor Power Circle

And follow his adventures in the pond world at:

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TikTok

Eric delves into the vital relationship between taking risks and reaping meaningful rewards in both business and life. The discussion highlights the critical need to not only embrace risk as entrepreneurs but also to consciously identify and plan for the rewards that drive us. Through personal stories and shared experiences within the contracting group, the episode underscores the power of recognizing weaknesses, celebrating victories, and the positive psychological impact of having future rewards to look forward to. Tune in to gain practical insights on how to structure your goals and appreciate the journey while actively pursuing and enjoying the rewards you earn.

Key Takeaways:

• Actively define the specific rewards you are striving for in your personal and professional endeavors.
• Make a conscious effort to schedule events and milestones that you can eagerly anticipate as sources of joy and motivation.
• Develop a routine of acknowledging and celebrating your achievements, no matter how small, to reinforce positive progress.
• Strive to honor the commitments you make to yourself to avoid the mental distraction and negative feelings associated with inaction.
• Intentionally seek out and celebrate the wins of those around you, fostering a positive and supportive environment.

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Water Garden Expo 2025: WGExpo.com

The All American Koi Show: AllAmericanKoiShow.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

TWT Contractor Power Circle

And follow his adventures in the pond world at:

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Today we feature Eric's interview with Jeffrey Duncan, a koi hobbyist, about his grand champion koi. The discussion centers around his journey, from purchasing the fish as a tosai (young koi) to raising it to grand champion status. They talk about the koi's bloodline, Jeffrey's pond setup, and husbandry techniques. He emphasizes the importance of patience, water quality, and selecting koi with growth potential. The interview also covers their experiences showing koi and competing against other dedicated hobbyists. Jeffrey also reflects on challenges, the value of learning from others, and the financial investment required for a show-quality pond and fish.

Key Takeaways:

• When koi keeping, fresh water is essential for healthy growth.
• To successfully raise koi, build the best possible pond you can afford.
• Be patient when growing koi, as it takes time to achieve length and girth.
• Don't get a lot of fish for a 6,000 gallon pond.
• When starting out, learn the levels of koi keeping before investing too much.

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Water Garden Expo 2025: WGExpo.com

The All American Koi Show: AllAmericanKoiShow.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

TWT Contractor Power Circle

And follow his adventures in the pond world at:

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Eric discusses the importance of continuous improvement and avoiding complacency in business. He emphasizes "earning it daily" and shares personal stories about disrupting his industry and recent experiences moving large koi fish. Eric stresses the need to adapt to competition and innovation, using Blockbuster's failure as a cautionary tale. The conversation explores setting goals, overcoming burnout, and the value of physical fitness in maintaining a competitive edge. Participants share their own experiences and challenges, discussing topics such as sales strategies, customer service, and team development.

Key Takeaways:

• Embrace disruption and innovation by being open to new ideas and not becoming complacent in your field.
• Challenge yourself weekly to assess your progress, identify areas for improvement, and plan for the future.
• Find something you love to do so that even when things get difficult, you can find joy and motivation in your work.
• Continuously seek to improve and evolve, recognizing that you're always a stepping stone to where you're going.
• Document your stories, struggles, and successes to solidify your memories and share your experiences with others.

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Water Garden Expo 2025: WGExpo.com

The All American Koi Show: AllAmericanKoiShow.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

TWT Contractor Power Circle

And follow his adventures in the pond world at:

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This edition of The Pond Digger Podcast features Eric Triplet in a fireside chat with Tyson Matayas and Ron Yelenich, discussing strategies for tackling tasks and maximizing productivity. The conversation explores various aspects of task management, from planning and preparation to the mindset required for efficient execution. They emphasize the importance of writing things down, setting miniature goals, and learning from journeymen and apprentices. The podcast also touches on the value of continuous self-improvement, both professionally and personally. Real world stories are used to further illustrate the need for planning and a willingness to evolve.

Key Takeaways:

• Plan and prepare in advance by accumulating necessary materials and tools before starting a task to maximize efficiency.
• When facing a large project, break it down into smaller, manageable tasks to make progress and gain a sense of accomplishment by checking off boxes.
• Document thoughts and ideas on paper or in a digital app to free up mental space for creativity and innovation.
• Embrace constant improvement by always seeking ways to be better and questioning existing methods.
• Collaborate effectively by checking ego at the door and working together as a team to leverage everyone's strengths.

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Water Garden Expo 2025: WGExpo.com

The All American Koi Show: AllAmericanKoiShow.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

TWT Contractor Power Circle

And follow his adventures in the pond world at:

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Eric details his experience rescuing a red-eared slider turtle from a small aquarium where it lived in isolation for years. He purchased the turtle and named her Freedom. Initially placing her in a large pond, he realized she lacked the muscle and experience to thrive, so he began rehabilitating her. He used smaller water tubs to help her regain strength and mobility before introducing her to a larger community. Eric then describes constructing an elaborate pond and duck enclosure for Freedom and other turtles, sharing details about the build and the pond's ecosystem. He concludes by discussing filtration and maintenance, and answering audience questions about pond care.

Key Takeaways:

• Sometimes, intervening in an animal's life can drastically improve its well-being, even if it seems like a common species.
• Patience and tailored environments are critical when rehabilitating an animal from poor living conditions.
• Building a suitable habitat for animals, like a pond, may require repurposing materials and a collaborative effort.
• Maintaining a healthy aquatic environment for multiple animals involves a commitment to filtration, aeration, and regular cleaning.
• Observing animals and adapting to their needs can lead to creating enriching environments that enhance their lives.

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Water Garden Expo 2025: WGExpo.com

The All American Koi Show: AllAmericanKoiShow.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

TWT Contractor Power Circle

And follow his adventures in the pond world at:

Instagram

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TikTok

Today's episode explores the power of storytelling in sales and communication, particularly within the contracting industry. Eric shares personal anecdotes, including a recent experience preparing for a speaking engagement, to illustrate the importance of crafting compelling narratives. The show emphasizes the need for authenticity and tailoring stories to resonate with the audience and their individual personalities. It cautions against self-centered or overly dramatic narratives, advocating instead for stories that highlight how the business can solve clients' problems. Practical tips, like third-party storytelling and avoiding "one-upping," are offered to improve sales interactions. Ultimately, Eric suggests that effective storytelling builds trust, attracts the right customers, and fosters stronger relationships.

Key Takeaways:

• Use stories to engage your audience; stories are naturally compelling and can enhance communication in various contexts, including sales.
• Be deliberate in crafting your stories, especially in sales training, to illustrate how client problems can be resolved by presenting third-party examples.
• Ensure that your story focuses on the client's perspective and the impact on them, not on yourself or irrelevant details.
• When telling a story, be aware of different personality types and tailor your approach accordingly; some, like high-D personalities, prefer directness over storytelling, especially during a sales process.
• Use storytelling in your branding and marketing to attract the right customers, ensuring your brand communicates a clear message that resonates with your target audience.

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Water Garden Expo 2025: WGExpo.com

The All American Koi Show: AllAmericanKoiShow.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

Get The FREE Labor Rate Calculator from SynkedUP: hubs.ly/Q0372zyP0

Pond Professionals Alliance: https://pondprofessionalsalliance.org/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

TWT Contractor Power Circle

And follow his adventures in the pond world at:

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Eric Tripplet discusses going from good to great, using the Tom Brady versus Mahomes debate as a framework. The episode emphasizes that hard work beats talent when talent doesn't put in the hard work. It explores the importance of training, repetition, and being coachable, even for naturally gifted individuals. The conversation touches on leadership, the value of a strong team, and continuous self-improvement. KeyTakeaways:

• Prioritize hard work and consistent effort over natural talent.
• Embrace coaching and constructive criticism from various sources, including peers.
• Actively lead your team by maintaining a positive and proactive attitude, especially during challenging times.
• Commit to continuous self-improvement through training, film study (replays), and thoughtful reflection.
• Evaluate how you use your time and replace unproductive activities with those that enhance your skills and knowledge.

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Water Garden Expo 2025: WGExpo.com

The All American Koi Show: AllAmericanKoiShow.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

TWT Contractor Power Circle

And follow his adventures in the pond world at:

Instagram

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TikTok

Eric's special guest is Weston Zimmerman from SynkedUP. Weston shares his journey in the landscaping and water feature industry. He discusses his early experiences, including working for Tussy Landscaping and learning about overhead recovery. The discussion explores the importance of understanding business finances and pricing strategies for contractors. Weston also details the development of his software company, SynkedUp, designed to help contractors with budgeting, estimating, and job costing. The conversation emphasizes the need for financial literacy and confidence in pricing to ensure profitability. Eric and Weston also touch upon sales strategies, customer relations, and the challenges faced by contractors in the industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Knowing your numbers and charging correctly are crucial for profitability.
• To earn profit consistently in a contracting business, you have to have both your rates and your resources dialed in consistently.
• Details kill deals, so present only essential information to help customers make decisions.
• Negotiate scope of work, not price, with clients.
• The biggest indicator of winning a job is being the first to provide a quote.

Get The FREE Labor Rate Calculator: hubs.ly/Q0372zyP0

SynkedUP: https://synkedup.com/

Links to resources:

Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com

Water Garden Expo 2025: WGExpo.com

The All American Koi Show: AllAmericanKoiShow.com

Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/

LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/

Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/

You can also check out The Pond Digger's products at:

http://helixpondfiltration.com/

TWT Contractor Circle

TWT Contractor Power Circle

And follow his adventures in the pond world at:

Instagram

Facebook

TikTok