Some folks think keeping a landscape healthy just means dumping more fertilizer and cranking up the sprinklers. But that’s like throwing steak on the grill without seasoning—it’s not gonna turn out the way you hoped. That’s why at NALP’s Elevate conference in Charlotte, NC, Jack Jostes caught up with Dr. Eric Brown, a PhD agronomist from Massey Services, to talk about what really makes plants thrive (hint: it’s not just luck).

Dr. Brown has spent years researching how to get big results with fewer inputs—which means less waste, healthier plants, and more money in your pocket. He shares the five key principles every landscaper should follow, from choosing the right plants for the right place to managing soil health, water, and pest control the right way. If you’ve ever struggled with dead spots, disease, or plants that just won’t take, this episode will help you fix those problems at the root.

Standing right there on the trade show floor, Dr. Brown breaks down how to bridge the gap between research and real-world landscaping so you can explain plant health to your customers without making their eyes glaze over. Whether you're running a landscaping business or just want to grow healthier plants, this episode is packed with easy-to-apply insights that’ll make your landscapes look better and last longer.

Want your landscapes to stay green and keep more green in your wallet? Tune in now for expert advice you won’t hear anywhere else.

🔍 Here’s what you’ll take away:

• 🌱 The 5 Secrets to a Thriving Landscape: Why soil, water, and plant selection matter more than you think.
• 💧 Less Fertilizer, Better Growth: How to feed your plants smarter (and stop wasting money on unnecessary treatments).
• 👨‍🌾 What the Heck Does an Agronomist Do?: Why Massey Services has a scientist on staff and how it benefits landscapers.

Watch now and start applying real agronomic science to your landscaping! 🎧 

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: landscapersguide.com/podcast

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: landscapersguide.com/toolbox

📅 Join Us at our Upcoming Events! 

Want to connect in person? Check out where Jack is speaking next: landscapersguide.com/events 

👨‍🌾 Connect with Dr. Eric Brown on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/eric-a-brown-266208b9

🌱 Massey Services – Expert Landscape & Pest Management: masseyservices.com

Most landscapers think they have a handle on their numbers—until cash flow problems, unexpected equipment costs, or skyrocketing overtime smack them in the face. In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes talks with Steven Bach from Bach Business Partners (BBP) about the financial traps that cost landscapers money every single year—and how to avoid them.

One of the biggest mistakes? Confusing sales with revenue. Just because you landed a contract doesn’t mean that money is in your pocket. Steven shares how landscapers can track revenue correctly, avoid cash flow surprises, and set realistic financial targets that actually mean something.

Then, they dig into equipment pricing. Are you factoring in work days the right way? Or are you overpricing jobs and scaring off customers—or worse, underpricing and bleeding profits? Steven explains how to stop guessing and start charging accurately so your business stays competitive and profitable.

And let’s talk labor. Overtime can eat into your margins fast, but the real problem? Most landscapers lie to themselves about how much they’re actually running. Steven breaks down a simple way to track and plan for it—so you’re not caught off guard when payroll rolls around.

Watch the FULL episode to dig deeper into:

• 💰 Sales vs. Revenue Reality Check: Why closing a sale doesn’t mean the money is yours yet.
• 🚜 Pricing Equipment the Right Way: How to calculate costs without overpricing your work.
• ⏳ Overtime Planning Done Right: Avoid the common mistake that drains your profits.

Watch now and take control of your financial future—before your numbers control you! 📺 

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: landscapersguide.com/podcast

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: landscapersguide.com/toolbox

🎤 Catch Jack at upcoming industry events: landscapersguide.com/events 

💼 Learn more about Bach Business Partners: www.linkedin.com/in/steven-bach-7a20554

👤 Connect with Steven Bach on LinkedIn: www.bachbusinesspartners.com 

Rolling out new software at your landscaping company? It can either transform your business—or turn into an expensive headache. At NALP’s Elevate conference, host Jack Jostes caught up with Aspire CEO Mark Tipton to unpack the real challenges behind implementing new systems and making them work.

Mark explains exactly who Aspire is designed for and why some companies thrive with it while others struggle. The key? It’s not just about the features—it’s about having the right mindset. Jack also shares a hard lesson he learned when rolling out new software in his own company (so you don’t make the same mistake).

But what about your team? If you’ve ever faced employee pushback when introducing new tools, you’re not alone. Mark reveals why some teams resist change and how strong leadership can make all the difference in getting buy-in. He also shares the one thing every business owner needs to do before handing off implementation.

Wondering if Aspire is the right fit for your business? Or how to roll out any new system without the chaos? You’ll find those answers—and game-changing insights—inside this episode.

Here’s what you’ll take away:

• 🛠 Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Use Aspire: The Hell Yes Customer for this software.
• 🚧 Avoiding Costly Mistakes: What most companies overlook when choosing new systems.
• 💡 How to Get Your Team On Board: The key to making change stick—without the resistance.

🔥 Don’t waste time (or money) on the wrong tools—get the insights you need now! 🎧

Show Notes:

🎥 Watch the full episode + read the transcript: landscapersguide.com/podcast 

🥩 Want free beef jerky? Get yours here: landscapersguide.com/toolbox 

🛠️ See if Aspire is the right fit for your business: ramblinjackson.com/aspire 

📊 Learn from Mark Tipton’s experience in the industry: linkedin.com/in/mark-t-tipton 

What if you could get more done with the same team—and without the stress? In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes sits down with Mark Tipton, CEO of Aspire, and Whitney Griffin, Senior Product Owner, to talk about the biggest challenges landscapers face, from labor shortages to vendor management. They share real-world strategies for improving efficiency, streamlining operations, and planning smarter.

One of the key takeaways? Proactive planning beats putting out fires. Whitney explains how tools like Gantt charts and better workflow systems can keep your projects on schedule and your team focused. Plus, they dive into vendor management headaches and how to make sure your estimates and purchasing process set your jobs up for success.

Mark also addresses the hot topic of Aspire’s pricing model—why they charge a percentage of revenue, how it compares to other software options, and how it removes roadblocks to adoption. He also shares his vision for the future, including how AI and automation will play a bigger role in helping landscapers save time and increase profits.

If you’re looking to build a more efficient, profitable landscaping business, this episode is packed with insights to help you stay ahead in 2025 and beyond.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• ⚙️ Work Smarter, Not Harder: How to maximize efficiency with the team you have.
• 📊 Better Planning, Fewer Problems: How Gantt charts and proactive scheduling can save time and money.
• 💰 Understanding Software Costs: Why Aspire charges a percentage of revenue—and how it compares to other options.

🎧 Watch now and see how smarter systems can take your business to the next level!

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: landscapersguide.com/podcast 

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: landscapersguide.com/toolbox 

🛠️ Learn more about Aspire Software: ramblinjackson.com/aspire 

👤 Connect with Mark Tipton on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mark-t-tipton

📊 Connect with Whitney Griffin on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/whitney-griffin-phd-01357040

What does landscaping have to do with alligator hunting? More than you'd think! In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes talks with Jason Lee, owner of SkyFrog Landscape and co-host of the Green Side Up Podcast, about how he balances running a thriving landscape business in Florida while wrangling gators in his free time. Spoiler alert—both require patience, skill, and a solid plan!

Jason shares how he grew SkyFrog Landscape from humble beginnings into a full-service company specializing in residential renovations and commercial maintenance. He dives into the challenges of expanding into new markets, following the money, and using smart digital marketing strategies to attract high-value clients.

And if you think landscaping is tough, wait until you hear about Jason’s alligator hunting adventures! From late-night hunts to torn rotator cuffs, Jason explains how his passion for the outdoors has become an unexpected way to connect with clients and industry peers.

If you’re looking to grow your business, tap into new revenue streams, or just hear some wild stories, this episode is packed with ideas, lessons, and a few laughs along the way.

In this episode, you'll learn about:

• 🐊 Gator Hunting Adventures: How Jason’s hunting trips create unique networking opportunities.
• 🌱 Following the Money: Expanding into better markets and attracting high-value clients.
• 📈 Smart Growth Strategies: Using SEO and marketing to build out services and locations.

🎧 Watch the full episode now and get inspired to grow your business—without getting bit!

Show Notes:

📺 Watch the full episode + read the transcript: landscapersguide.com/podcast

🥓 Want free beef jerky? Tell us where to send it: landscapersguide.com/toolbox

📞 Let’s talk marketing! Book a FREE 15-minute brainstorm call: landscapersguide.com/brainstorm

🌿 Connect with Jack Jostes on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jackjostes

🚜 Learn more about SkyFrog Landscape: skyfroglandscape.com 

🎙️ Listen to the Green Side Up Podcast: greensideuppodcast.com 

How do you grow a landscaping company without selling your soul—or your business—to private equity? In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes chats with Kelly Slater, the newly promoted CEO of Pleasant Landscapes, about building leaders, planning for a future of employee ownership, and why she’s sticking to her roots (literally).

Kelly shares how her team is developing junior leadership roles, turning employees into stakeholders with phantom stocks, and using AI to make everyday tasks easier. From role-playing sales objections to drafting cooler, calmer emails, AI is freeing up time for the team to focus on big-picture goals—and, of course, ringing the bell for every milestone.

Private equity? Not a chance. Kelly explains why her company is committed to staying independent and how they’re laying the groundwork to become 100% employee-owned. She also dives into the competitive (yet supportive) landscaping industry, sharing why collaboration and rivalry can go hand in hand.

Curious about how Pleasant Landscapes tracks its market share and what they’re doing to grow their slice of the pie? Or how they’ve built a team culture where ownership and leadership go far beyond titles? This episode is packed with ideas to inspire your next move.

Tune in to the FULL episode to learn:

• 🏡 Planning for Employee Ownership: How phantom stocks and leadership development are paving the way for a fully employee-owned company.
• 🌱 The Power of Leadership: Why leading beats managing and how to inspire your team to follow you.
• 🤖 AI for Everyday Efficiency: How AI is helping with sales training, email communication, and financial insights at Pleasant Landscapes.

Press play and discover how to lead your team, grow your business, and make 2025 your best year yet! 🎧

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: landscapersguide.com/podcast

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: landscapersguide.com/toolbox

🔗 Connect with Kelly Slater: www.linkedin.com/in/thekellyslater 

🌐 Learn more about Pleasant Landscapes: www.pleasantlandscapes.com

🌿 Connect with Jack Jostes: www.linkedin.com/in/jackjostes 

📅 Catch us at an upcoming event: landscapersguide.com/events

What if your landscape could lower stress as easily as a good sunset on the prairie? In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes chats with Daniel and Rome from Avesso Studio, the Dallas-based duo transforming homes inside and out. They’ll show you how thoughtful design can wrangle chaos and create calm, both in your backyard and beyond.

From anxiety-lowering water features to the hidden power of color and texture, Daniel and Rome are breaking new ground in design. They’ll reveal how merging interior and landscape design not only looks stunning but fosters real mental wellness. You’ll also hear why understanding a client’s emotional needs might be the secret sauce to closing more projects.

Plus, get the inside scoop on Avesso’s unique “Designer for a Day” service—a one-of-a-kind approach that blends hands-on design exploration with personalized solutions. And if you’ve ever wrestled with the idea of charging for consultations, Daniel and Rome share practical advice that’ll help you decide what’s best for your business.

This episode is perfect for landscape pros who want to create spaces that are as functional as they are uplifting. Ready to make your designs a haven of well-being? Tune in and learn how to stand out in a competitive market.

Listen to the full episode to learn more about:

• 🌊 Stress-Busting Landscapes: How water, plants, and textures can create a peaceful retreat.
• 🏡 Holistic Design Processes: Why combining interior and landscape design creates magic for clients.
• 💰 Charging for Consultations: Strategies to confidently present and price your services.

Watch the full episode now and discover how design can leave your clients happier and healthier! 🎧 

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: www.landscapersguide.com/podcast

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: www.landscapersguide.com/toolbox

📅 Check Out Our Upcoming Events: landscapersguide.com/events 

🔗 Connect with Jack Jostes on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jackjostes

📸 Follow Avesso Studio on Instagram: @Avesso_Dallas

🌐 Visit Their Website: www.avessostudio.com 

Are your sponsorships rolling away like tumbleweeds, leaving your bottom line dry? In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes shares seven essential tips to help snow and landscape companies turn sponsorship dollars into measurable results. Whether it’s a trade show, webinar, or local event, these strategies will grow more than just brand awareness!

Learn how to craft offers that stick like a deeply-rooted tree and design landing pages your audience won’t forget. These practical tips will help you connect with your target market while standing out from the crowd. We’ll also show you how to go beyond just showing up by actively participating and making your brand unforgettable.

Find out why sending your sales team, promoting the event, and even hitting the stage can transform leads into long-term customers. These strategies are designed for snow and landscape pros ready to take control of their sponsorships and see real ROI. It’s time to make your investments bloom!

Pull on your boots and saddle up! Discover how to turn sponsorships into opportunities that grow your business year-round. Don’t just plant seeds—harvest results that keep your company thriving in every season!

Learn more about these seven tips for sponsorship success:

• 🌱 Crafting S.M.A.R.T. Offers: Tips to create offers that grab attention and drive action.
• 🤝 Active Participation: Why being part of the action—online or in-person—makes all the difference.
• 🎤 Taking the Stage: How speaking opportunities and event engagement can multiply your impact.

Don’t miss this chance to grow your sponsorship ROI and start 2025 on solid ground! 💡

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: www.landscapersguide.com/podcast

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: www.landscapersguide.com/toolbox

🌿 Connect with Jack Jostes on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jackjostes 

💼 Discover Sponsorship Opportunities: www.landscapersguide.com/sponsors 

What do you want your life and business to look like next year? In this special year-end episode, Jack Jostes teams up with his longtime business coach, Wayne Herring, to reflect on the wins, challenges, and lessons of 2024. Tune in for actionable insights to help you prepare for 2025.

From launching a record number of websites to leveraging AI for efficiency, Jack shares how Ramblin Jackson hit major milestones this year. Wayne also dives into the benefits of having a business coach and how intentional conversations can help owners overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

This episode isn’t just about wins—it’s about growth. Jack opens up about how Ramblin Jackson is evolving to serve clients better and why focusing on remarkable customer experiences is the key to standing out in a competitive market.

Plus, hear personal stories about health, family, and finding balance as a business owner. Whether you’re looking to grow professionally, personally, or both, this episode is packed with inspiration and ideas to make your 2025 the best year yet.

Watch the FULL episode to learn more about:

• 🌱 Seasonal Reflections: Why taking time to reflect on wins and challenges sets you up for success.
• 🤖 AI in Action: How Jack uses AI tools to save time and deliver better results.
• 🚀 Growth Strategies: Ways to evolve your business for long-term success and happier clients.
  
  

🎧 Don’t miss this episode—listen now for fresh ideas to grow your business and thrive in 2025!

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: www.landscapersguide.com/podcast

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: www.landscapersguide.com/toolbox

🔥Explore Business Builder Camp: www.businessbuildercamp.com 

💼 Connect with Wayne Herring: www.linkedin.com/in/wayneherringjr 

Ever wonder what separates good landscapers from GREAT ones? Spoiler: It’s not just about cutting grass! In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, host Jack Jostes interviews Aaron Wolfe, owner of Wickenburg Landscape. With over 40 years of family legacy, Aaron spills the secrets to running a standout business built on punctuality, eye-catching photography, and unforgettable client relationships.

Aaron isn’t your average landscaper—he’s an industry trailblazer and advocate. With decades of experience, paver instructor certification, and a passion for helping others, Aaron’s insights are a goldmine for landscapers everywhere. Whether you’re managing snow removal or creating dreamy outdoor spaces, his practical advice is sure to inspire.

Discover how Aaron’s Client for Life program helps him land Hell Yes Clients. Learn why punctuality isn’t just polite—it’s powerful—and how professional photography can transform your brand. Oh, and don’t miss the unique way he connects with clients: cooking dinners in their brand-new outdoor kitchens. (Yes, that’s a thing!)

If you’re ready to elevate your business with better processes, jaw-dropping visuals, and stronger client connections, this episode is for you.

Don’t miss Aaron’s valuable insights on:

• 🕒 Punctuality Pays: Why showing up on time builds trust and saves time.
• 📸 Photography that Sells: How to capture award-winning, client-winning images.
• 🍽️ Client Experiences: Turning outdoor kitchens into relationship-builders.
  
  

Listen to the full episode now to transform your landscaping business and attract your Hell Yes Clients! 🎧 

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: landscapersguide.com/podcast

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: landscapersguide.com/toolbox

📞 Book a FREE 15-Minute Marketing Brainstorm: landscapersguide.com/brainstorm 

🎤 Don’t Miss Our Upcoming Events!: landscapersguide.com/events 

🌵 Explore Wickenburg Landscape: wickenburglandscape.com

🤝 Connect with Aaron Wolfe: www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-wolfe-5a449331