In this episode of the Digital Toolbox Podcast, host Enmanuel Tejada interviews Justin White, CEO of K&D Landscaping, who shares his inspiring journey from taking over his family business to achieving remarkable growth. They have grown from $1M to over $20M per year over the last 10 years!

Justin discusses the importance of organic growth, effective marketing strategies, and building a strong workforce. He emphasizes the need for a solid organizational structure and the role of a CEO in a growing company. The conversation also touches on private equity insights and Justin's vision for the future, including the launch of the JW Group community for landscapers.

Justin's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinwhitekdceo/
JW Group Website: https://www.jwhitegroup.com/
K&D Landscaping Website: https://kndlandscaping.com/


Takeaways

• Justin took over his family landscaping business at 25.
• The company grew from $1 million to $20 million in revenue.
• Organic growth was achieved through effective marketing and hiring.
• Cultural fit is crucial when hiring key positions.
• The importance of having a clear vision for the future.
• Building a strong workforce is essential for success.
• Systems and processes need to be documented and accessible.
• Private equity can impact company culture and operations.
• Community building is vital for landscapers to share knowledge.
• Continuous improvement is necessary for long-term growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Digital Toolbox Podcast
01:12 Justin White's Journey in Landscaping
03:41 Rapid Growth and Business Strategy
08:42 Overcoming Personal Challenges and Finding Purpose
13:32 Transitioning to Business Leadership
21:59 Service Offerings and Market Expansion
24:36 Marketing Strategies and Inbound Leads
29:57 Building a Strong Workforce
35:42 Organizational Structure of a $20 Million Business
39:45 The Role of a CEO in a Growing Company
53:56 Vision for the Future and Private Equity Insights
01:04:41 Hiring Strategies for Key Positions
01:10:34 Launching the JW Group Community


Keywords

landscaping, business growth, marketing strategies, leadership, private equity, community building, organic growth, service offerings, workforce management, CEO insights

If you are in need of branding or marketing help for your landscape or hardscape company, book a FREE 1 on 1 call with me here:

https://calendly.com/landscapemaverick/discovery-call

In this episode of the Digital Toolbox Podcast, host Manny interviews Edwyn Kumar, a business coach and consultant. Edwyn shares his background and expertise in helping small to medium businesses grow and scale. He emphasizes the importance of specialization and delivering a high-quality product or service. Edwin also discusses the operational side of business, the need for strategic decision-making, and the value of forming strong relationships.

Edwyn provides insights on scaling a business and the critical role of networking and partnerships. In this conversation, Edwyn shares valuable insights on growing a business in the home service industry. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong network and finding ambitious individuals to grow with. Edwyn also discusses the need for efficient business structures and the concept of integrated development.

He challenges the idea of not working with family and highlights the importance of trust and communication within a team. Edwyn provides practical advice on scaling a business, optimizing operational logistics, and prioritizing the right areas for growth.


Edwyn's Contact Details:

Website: https://ultrateamdev.ca/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwyn-kumar/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultrateamdev
 


Takeaways

• Specialize in a specific area or service to dominate a market
• Develop operational structures that support your core product or service
• Focus on business development and personal branding to scale your business
• Build strong relationships and network with others in your industry
• Consider partnerships and collaborations to expand your offerings
• Reverse engineer your business goals to determine the necessary steps for growth Building a strong network and finding ambitious individuals to grow with is crucial for business growth.
• Efficient business structures and integrated development are key to scaling a business.
• Working with family can be successful if there is trust and effective communication.
• Optimizing operational logistics and prioritizing the right areas for growth are essential for scaling a business.
  
  

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

07:26
Specialization and Delivering a High-Quality Product

16:03
Operational Structure and Strategic Decision-Making

21:08
The Value of Forming Strong Relationships

25:42
Networking and Partnerships for Business Growth

30:08
Scaling a Business through Business Development

33:56
Reverse Engineering Business Goals for Growth

41:49
Does It Have Legs?

48:09
Focus on the Right Things

52:28
Prioritizing Your Top Priority

56:47
Responsibility, Authority, and Accountability

01:02:45
Color Code Your Schedule


Keywords

business growth, scaling a business, specialization, operational structure, strategic decision-making, forming relationships, networking, partnerships, business growth, home service industry, network, ambitious individuals, business structure, integrated development, working with family, trust, communication, scaling a business, operational logistics, growth priorities

If you are in need of branding or marketing help for your landscape or hardscape company, book a FREE 1 on 1 call with me here:

https://calendly.com/landscapemaverick/discovery-call

In this episode of The Digital Toolbox Podcast, host Enmanuel Tejada welcomes Anthony Mann Jr., a seasoned professional in the hardscape industry. They discuss Anthony's journey from his early days in landscaping to becoming a successful entrepreneur. The conversation delves into the importance of health and fitness, particularly through the 75 Hard program, and how it has transformed Anthony's life and business. They explore the nuances of the hardscape industry, emphasizing quality, client relationships, and the significance of mentorship for the next generation of contractors. Anthony shares insights on project longevity, the challenges of commercial work, and the profitability of snow services. The episode concludes with a discussion on the upcoming coaching and mentorship initiatives aimed at empowering young professionals in the industry.



Takeaways

• The 75 Hard program significantly impacted my business growth.
• Health and fitness are crucial for mental clarity and business success.
• Building strong client relationships is key to long-term success.
• Quality and details matter in every project we undertake.
• Mentorship is essential for the next generation of contractors.
• Transitioning from residential to commercial work requires strong relationships.
• Snow services can be more profitable than hardscaping.
• Every job is unique and requires a tailored approach.
• Trust and integrity are vital in the contracting business.
• Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary for success. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
03:03 Early Life and Career Beginnings
06:03 Transitioning to Business and Marketing
09:13 The 75 Hard Program and Its Impact
11:54 Health Transformation and Lifestyle Changes
15:04 Business Growth and Coaching Influence
18:07 Hardscape Industry Insights and Innovations
20:52 Project Longevity and Quality Standards
24:07 Building Relationships and Client Trust
27:03 Commercial vs. Residential Work
30:09 Snow Services and Operational Strategies
33:13 Mentorship and Coaching Future Plans

If you are in need of branding or marketing help for your landscape or hardscape company, book a FREE 1 on 1 call with me here:

https://calendly.com/landscapemaverick/discovery-call

Summary

In this episode of the Digital Toolbox Podcast, Enmanuel interviews Kevin Scott, owner of Muskoka Landscapers, for the second time. They discuss the high-end landscaping projects they work on in Muskoka, Canada, which cater to wealthy clients from around the world. Kevin shares insights on how they focus on improving their net profit by eliminating waste and increasing efficiency. They use various software tools like Google Drive, 4x4, QuickBooks, and To Do List to streamline their operations. Kevin also emphasizes the importance of training, consistency, and communication in reducing waste and maximizing profitability. Kevin Scott discusses the tools and systems his company uses to streamline operations and improve efficiency. He emphasizes the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and how they help create accountability and provide clear guidelines for employees. Scott also introduces his upcoming project, the Wealthy Landscaper, a community and platform for landscape entrepreneurs to share information and learn from industry leaders. The platform will offer templates, SOPs, and interviews, and will have an accelerator program for those looking to expedite their business growth.

Takeaways

• Muskoka Landscapers specializes in high-end landscaping projects for wealthy clients in Muskoka, Canada.
• They focus on improving their net profit by eliminating waste and increasing efficiency.
• They use software tools like Google Drive, 4x4, QuickBooks, and To Do List to streamline their operations.
• Training, consistency, and communication are key in reducing waste and maximizing profitability. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) are essential for creating accountability and providing clear guidelines for employees.
• Using tools like Google Drive and project management software can help streamline operations and improve efficiency.
• The Wealthy Landscaper is a community and platform for landscape entrepreneurs to share information and learn from industry leaders.
• The platform will offer templates, SOPs, and interviews, and will have an accelerator program for those looking to expedite their business growth.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

03:17
Creating High-End Landscaping Projects in Muskoka

08:03
Maximizing Profitability through Waste Reduction

10:03
Streamlining Operations with Software Tools

13:18
The Importance of Training, Consistency, and Communication

24:27
Streamlining Operations with Standard Operating Procedures

29:38
Introducing the Wealthy Landscaper: A Community for Landscape Entrepreneurs

45:13
Tools and Systems for Efficiency in the Landscape Business

Keywords

landscaping, Muskoka, high-end projects, waste reduction, efficiency, software tools, training, consistency, communication, profitability, landscape business, standard operating procedures, efficiency, systems, Wealthy Landscaper, community, platform, templates, SOPs, accelerator program

If you are in need of branding or marketing help for your landscape or hardscape company, book a FREE 1 on 1 call with me here:

https://calendly.com/landscapemaverick/discovery-call

Summary

Jacob Farling from ORO Landscape shares his journey from high school to dropping out of college and starting his own landscaping business and reaching over 1 Million in revenue. He talks about his early experiences mowing lawns and the challenges he faced in school. Jacob discusses his foray into real estate and the lessons he learned from a tough mentor. He then shares how he landed his first landscaping job and the obstacles he overcame to complete it successfully. Jacob's story is a testament to his determination and willingness to take risks in pursuit of his entrepreneurial dreams. Jacob shares his journey of starting his landscaping business, from taking on his first big job to selling his lawn care business and going all-in on landscaping. He emphasizes the importance of learning from experience and being willing to take risks.

Jacob also discusses the role of coaching and mentorship in his success, particularly his experience with Chase Gallagher. He highlights the challenges he faced, including door knocking in the winter and dealing with rejection, but emphasizes his determination to keep pushing forward. In this conversation, Jacob shares his experience starting and growing his landscaping business. He emphasizes the importance of taking action, learning from mistakes, and constantly improving. Jacob discusses the role of sales and marketing in his business, as well as the value of providing excellent customer service. He also talks about the challenges he has faced and the hate he has received from others in the industry. Jacob offers advice for aspiring landscapers, including the importance of having a website, door knocking to find clients, and reaching out to your social network. He also announces his upcoming coaching program and the opportunity for three students to learn from him.


Get in Touch with Jacob:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacobfarling/

Website: https://orolandscape.com/

Jacob's Recent Magazine Feature: https://issuu.com/trishaventker/docs/denver_spring_2024/18

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

03:33
High School and Early Entrepreneurial Ventures

08:50
College and the Decision to Drop Out

18:04
Returning Home and Starting a Landscaping Business

24:06
Taking Risks and Learning from Failure

26:21
Landing a Major Landscaping Job

29:22
Overcoming Challenges and Building Strong Client Relationships

30:52
Starting with a Cracked Footer

33:02
Realizing the Potential of Landscaping

35:39
Taking the Leap and Dropping Out of College

39:35
Finding Inspiration and Rebranding

49:08
Door Knocking and Landing the First Big Job

59:08
Coaching and Going All-In on Luxury Landscaping

01:06:26
Persistence and Overcoming Rejection

01:06:38
Taking Action and Learning from Mistakes

01:14:51
Providing Excellent Customer Service and Constantly Improving

01:19:06
Facing Challenges and Overcoming Hate

01:20:27
Building a Strong Online Presence and Finding Clients

01:24:48
Joining Jacob's Coaching Program for Personalized Guidance

If you are in need of branding or marketing help for your landscape or hardscape company, book a FREE 1 on 1 call with me here:

https://calendly.com/landscapemaverick/discovery-call

In this conversation, James Doyle, owner of Innovative CT, shares his journey from being a troublemaker in high school to starting his own landscaping business. He talks about the mentors who helped him stay in school and find his path. James discusses how he started his business, focusing on excellent presentation and using social media to showcase their work. He explains their approach to lawn maintenance and their specialization in communal living and condo association maintenance. James also discusses their hardscape projects, including drainage work and land management. He shares the story of a large-scale disc golf course project they worked on. In this conversation, James Doyle discusses the challenges of a landscaping project, the process of acquiring another company, and offers advice for aspiring landscapers. He emphasizes the importance of having a strong support system, trusting your team, and investing in key players. James also shares his personal journey of self-improvement and the benefits of surrounding yourself with high-performing entrepreneurs. He encourages entrepreneurs to take care of themselves and prioritize their well-being.

Innovative CT Website: https://innovativect.com/

Innovative CT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativelawnandlandscapellc/

takeaways

• Having mentors and support can make a significant impact on a person's life and help them find their path.
• Using social media as a portfolio can help showcase your work and attract customers.
• Focusing on excellent presentation and professionalism can set a business apart.
• Specializing in a niche market, such as communal living and condo association maintenance, can lead to long-term contracts.
• Taking calculated risks and learning from experience is essential for business growth.
• Delegating tasks and trusting employees is crucial for working on the business rather than in the business.
• Hardscape projects, such as drainage work and land management, can be profitable and require specialized equipment and skills.
• Large-scale projects, like the disc golf course, can provide unique opportunities for growth and long-term relationships with clients. Having a strong support system, such as a supportive spouse, is crucial for success in entrepreneurship.
• Investing in key players who bring value to your company can lead to growth and success.
• Surrounding yourself with high-performing entrepreneurs can push you to achieve more and improve your mindset.
• Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is essential for long-term success in entrepreneurship.
• Trusting your team and empowering them to make decisions can lead to better outcomes and growth for your business.

Chapters

00:00
James Doyle's Background and Introduction

05:12
From High School Troublemaker to Business Owner

13:11
Building a Brand and Showcasing Work

15:31
Specializing in Communal Living and Condo Association Maintenance

24:35
Hardscape Projects: Drainage Work and Land Management

25:30
The Disc Golf Course Project: A Unique Opportunity for Growth

26:15
The Challenges of a Landscaping Project

27:34
The Process of Acquiring Another Company

35:14
Advice for Aspiring Landscapers


keywords

landscaping, business, mentors, high school, troublemaker, starting a business, excellent presentation, social media, lawn maintenance, communal living, condo association, hardscape projects, drainage work, land management, disc golf course, landscaping, acquisition, support system, team, self-

If you are in need of branding or marketing help for your landscape or hardscape company, book a FREE 1 on 1 call with me here:

https://calendly.com/landscapemaverick/discovery-call

Chris Vazzana, owner of Black Diamond Design Landscaping, shares his journey in the landscaping industry and how he and his brother built their successful business. They started by doing small landscaping jobs for family members and realized their passion for it. They eventually started their own business and focused on growing their presence on Instagram. They also sought the guidance of a mentor who helped them implement systems and strategies to scale their business. They now have a showroom, use videos to build trust with clients, and track their numbers closely to ensure profitability. Chris Vazzana shares his system for project management and accountability, emphasizing the importance of paper-based tracking and checklists. He discusses how his office staff creates project folders and expense sheets, while he and his team use the CompanyCam app for documentation. Chris highlights the value of having the right people in the right positions and treating them well. He also shares his success with Christmas lights as a profitable business venture, providing insights into pricing, storage, and customer service. Chris advises smaller landscapers to be consistent, have the right systems in place, and treat clients and employees well.

Takeaways

• Starting small and doing quality work for family members can lead to business opportunities
• Building a strong online presence, such as on Instagram, can help attract clients
• Seeking guidance from a mentor can provide valuable insights and strategies for business growth
• Implementing systems and processes can improve efficiency and profitability
• Using videos to build trust with clients and provide personalized communication
• Tracking numbers and adjusting strategies regularly can ensure business success Implement paper-based tracking and checklists for project management and accountability.
• Have the right people in the right positions and treat them well.
• Consider offering Christmas lights as a profitable business venture.
• Price Christmas lighting services competitively and provide exceptional customer service.
• Consistency, good systems, and client satisfaction are key to success in the landscaping industry.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

06:04
The Importance of Mentorship

10:54
Implementing Patio Packages for Increased Volume

18:29
Building Trust with Clients through Videos

23:08
Efficiency and Tracking Numbers for Success

26:04
The Power of Paper-Based Tracking and Checklists

28:37
The Importance of Having the Right People in the Right Positions

32:46
Christmas Lights: A Profitable Business Venture

37:52
Pricing and Customer Service in the Christmas Lighting Industry

45:32
Consistency, Systems, and Client Satisfaction: Keys to Success


Keywords

landscaping, business growth, Instagram, mentorship, systems, showroom, videos, trust, profitability, project management, accountability, paper-based tracking, checklists, office staff, project folders, expense sheets, Company Cam app, right people, treating employees well, Christmas lights, profitable business, pricing, storage, customer service, smaller landscapers, consistency, systems, client satisfaction

If you are in need of branding or marketing help for your landscape or hardscape company, book a FREE 1 on 1 call with me here:

https://calendly.com/landscapemaverick/discovery-call

Vinny Machado, owner of Maple Tree Landscape, shares his journey from Brazil to the United States and his path to becoming a successful landscaper. He started his landscaping career working for a company and eventually decided to start his own business. Vinny initially used creative marketing strategies, such as putting flyers in newspapers, to attract his first clients. Over time, he learned the importance of business coaching and implementing new strategies to scale his business. Today, Vinny's company has 15 employees and generates close to two and a half million dollars in revenue. Vinny Machado shares his insights on growing a successful landscaping business, emphasizing the importance of knowing your worth, providing excellent customer service, and continuously improving. He discusses the strategies he uses to streamline operations, such as using CRM software and creating videos to communicate with employees and customers. Vinny also highlights the value of offering additional services, like 3D designs and power washing, to differentiate his business from competitors. He emphasizes the need for problem-solving and a positive mindset when dealing with challenges. Vinny's advice for aspiring landscapers is to start small, work hard, and gradually increase prices as the business grows.

Takeaways

• Starting a landscaping business requires hard work and dedication
• Creative marketing strategies can help attract clients
• Investing in business coaching and learning new strategies is crucial for growth
• Setting minimum pricing standards can help increase profitability
• Implementing new ideas and being open to change is essential for scaling a business Start small, work hard, and gradually increase prices as your business grows.
• Invest in CRM software and use it to streamline operations and improve communication with employees and customers.
• Offer additional services, such as 3D designs and power washing, to differentiate your business and provide more value to customers.
• Emphasize problem-solving and a positive mindset when dealing with challenges.
• Focus on continuous improvement and always strive to be better.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

03:03
Starting a Landscaping Business

09:00
Creative Marketing Strategies

15:52
The Importance of Business Coaching

19:06
Scaling the Business

23:13
Setting Pricing Standards

25:21
Implementing New Ideas

26:23
Establishing Prices and Closing Deals

29:40
Streamlining Operations with Video Communication

34:24
Differentiating the Business with 3D Designs

37:07
Focus on a Specific Area to Make More Money

39:25
Offering Additional Services: Deer Repellent and Power Washing

45:01
Work-Life Balance and Structuring the Day

49:07
Starting Small and Knowing Your Worth

53:53
Continuous Improvement and Increasing Prices

55:21
Conclusion


keywords

landscaping, entrepreneurship, business coaching, marketing strategies, scaling a business, landscaping, business growth, customer service, CRM software, additional services, problem-solving, positive mindset

If you are in need of branding or marketing help for your landscape or hardscape company, book a FREE 1 on 1 call with me here:

https://calendly.com/landscapemaverick/discovery-call

In this episode, Tanner from Green Space Lawn Care shares his journey of starting a lawn care business at a young age and specializing in Fescue grass. He started by scooping dog poop for neighbors and gradually expanded to mowing lawns. Tanner's goal is to grow his business to 10 locations within North Carolina and eventually offer franchise opportunities to his best employees. He emphasizes the importance of branding and having a niche in the lawn care industry. Tanner uses a combination of a high-ranking website, Google business profile, and word of mouth to generate leads. He also discusses the tools and equipment he uses, such as FieldRoutes for CRM and QuickBooks for bookkeeping.


Green Space Lawn Care Website: https://www.greenspacelawncare.us/

Green Space Lawn Care Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenspacelawncare/

Takeaways

• Starting a lawn care business at a young age can lead to long-term success
• Specializing in a specific type of grass can attract a niche market and higher-paying customers
• Branding and having a professional image are crucial for attracting customers
• A high-ranking website and Google business profile can generate leads
• Using the right tools and equipment, such as CRM software and bookkeeping software, can streamline operations

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

02:57
Starting a Lawn Care Business at a Young Age

08:08
Specializing in Fescue Grass: A Niche Market

11:50
The Importance of Branding in the Lawn Care Industry

21:56
Using the Right Tools and Equipment for Efficient Operations


Keywords

lawn care, Fescue grass, branding, niche, leads, website, Google business profile, tools, equipment, landscaping, green industry

If you are in need of branding or marketing help for your landscape or hardscape company, book a FREE 1 on 1 call with me here:

https://calendly.com/landscapemaverick/discovery-call

In this episode, Emmanuel Tajada interviews Daniel Haynes, owner of Magnolia Landscape Construction. Daniel shares his journey of how he accidentally got into landscaping and eventually started his own business. He discusses the challenges he faced and the steps he took to grow his company. Daniel emphasizes the importance of knowing your numbers and charging the right amount for your services. He also highlights the value of finding mentors and seeking coaching to improve your business. Overall, this episode provides valuable insights and advice for landscapers looking to start or grow their own businesses.


Magnolia Website: https://www.magnolialandscapeconstruction.com/

Magnolia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magnolialandscapeconstruction/

Takeaways

• Accidental entry into landscaping can lead to a successful career and business
• Transitioning from employee to entrepreneur requires taking calculated risks
• Passion for residential landscapes and building customer relationships can drive business success
• Knowing your numbers and charging the right amount for your services is crucial for profitability
• Finding mentors and seeking coaching can provide valuable guidance and support for business growth

Sound Bites

• "If you're not making money with one crew, you're not making money with two"
• "The point of business is to play the game another day"
• "You gotta figure out what to charge, you know what I mean?"

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

02:13
Transitioning from Employee to Entrepreneur

03:18
Passion for Residential Landscapes

09:27
The Importance of Knowing Your Numbers

14:20
Finding Leads and Growing the Business

18:06
Training and Managing Crews

20:14
The Role of Daniel's Wife in the Business

21:20
Working with Designers and Custom Projects

25:36
Advice for Landscapers Starting or Growing Their Business

32:03
The Importance of Coaching and Mentorship

35:37
Closing Remarks and Contact Information


Keywords

landscaping, entrepreneurship, business growth, knowing your numbers, mentorship, coaching

If you are in need of branding or marketing help for your landscape or hardscape company, book a FREE 1 on 1 call with me here:

https://calendly.com/landscapemaverick/discovery-call