In this episode, Andy explores Mulder Outdoors ongoing “big project,” a truly “Magazine Ready” build that exemplifies complexity, craftsmanship, and meticulous precision. From navigating a challenging backyard layout to installing high-end hardscapes like the Sienna edge wall, drainage, and utilities, every step demands careful planning and execution. The crew’s attention to detail is evident as they spend hours ensuring one critical wall is placed within half an inch of accuracy—its alignment determining the success of the entire project. Featuring custom natural materials such as Eden Outcropping limestone and a 12-inch natural stone coping set in mortar, the design blends clean, modern lines with organic beauty. It’s a labor-intensive, high-cost build that reflects his company’s reputation for excellence—work so crisp and refined it’s destined for the pages of a magazine.

📸 Instagram: @mulderoutdoors 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: mulderoutdoors.com/shop

Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST

• 📘 How to Price My Job

• 🛒 Amazon Store

• 🧱 Pave Tool — Use MULDEROUTDOORS to save 10%

• 🔪 Blades Direct — Use MULDER20 to save $20

• 📏 Perma Paver Edging

• 👷 Brunt Workwear — Use MulderOutdoors10 to save $10

• 🍬 Albanese Candy — Official Candy of the Podcast

• 🛠️ Automatic Supply / Heritage Plus — Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST for 15% off (up to $1,500 — one per company)

• 🧱 Unilock

• 🎨 Dirty Graphix

• ⚙️ CMP Attachments

• 🚧 Engcon

• 🚜 A&D Equipment

• 📚 The Hardscape Academy

• 🪨 Amborn Stone — Call: 913-837-6729

• 💎 Latux Diamond Blades — Use code MULDER to save 20%

Andy answers audience questions, offering extensive advice on how to handle employees who break company tools and equipment, contrasting his lenient approach with a listener's experience of being charged for damages. He also provides updates on his company's ongoing property development and construction projects.

📸 Instagram: @mulderoutdoors 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: mulderoutdoors.com/shop

Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST

• 📘 How to Price My Job

• 🛒 Amazon Store

• 🧱 Pave Tool — Use MULDEROUTDOORS to save 10%

• 🔪 Blades Direct — Use MULDER20 to save $20

• 📏 Perma Paver Edging

• 👷 Brunt Workwear — Use MulderOutdoors10 to save $10

• 🍬 Albanese Candy — Official Candy of the Podcast

• 🛠️ Automatic Supply / Heritage Plus — Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST for 15% off (up to $1,500 — one per company)

• 🧱 Unilock

• 🎨 Dirty Graphix

• ⚙️ CMP Attachments

• 🚧 Engcon

• 🚜 A&D Equipment

• 📚 The Hardscape Academy

• 🪨 Amborn Stone — Call: 913-837-6729

• 💎 Latux Diamond Blades — Use code MULDER to save 20%

Payment Structures that Make Sense... Master your cash flow by taking control of payment schedules. This episode breaks down essential billing strategies, emphasizing that no one payment structure fits all jobs.

Learn to structure progress payments based on work completed (or materials delivered), not rigid milestones, to prevent cash flow traps. The strategic goal is to ensure only the final 10% is pending upon project completion.

We also cover critical protections, such as including a "winter clause" in contracts, allowing you to bill for work completed to date if weather causes a shutdown. Finally, maintain financial integrity: vendors are not your bank. As the owner, you must set the terms that are right for your company.

📸 Instagram: @mulderoutdoors 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: mulderoutdoors.com/shop

Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST

• 📘 How to Price My Job

• 🛒 Amazon Store

• 🧱 Pave Tool — Use MULDEROUTDOORS to save 10%

• 🔪 Blades Direct — Use MULDER20 to save $20

• 📏 Perma Paver Edging

• 👷 Brunt Workwear — Use MulderOutdoors10 to save $10

• 🍬 Albanese Candy — Official Candy of the Podcast

• 🛠️ Automatic Supply / Heritage Plus — Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST for 15% off (up to $1,500 — one per company)

• 🧱 Unilock

• 🎨 Dirty Graphix

• ⚙️ CMP Attachments

• 🚧 Engcon

• 🚜 A&D Equipment

• 📚 The Hardscape Academy

• 🪨 Amborn Stone — Call: 913-837-6729

• 💎 Latux Diamond Blades — Use code MULDER to save 20%

This episode revolves around business and personal finance, with Andy sharing his philosophy on running his landscaping company and his personal life completely debt-free, explaining how this financial discipline impacts his business management and his relationship with his employees. Finally, he answers a few listener questions, including a detailed account of a challenging hydraulic oil stain incident on a job site and some quick thoughts on landscaping equipment.

📸 Instagram: @mulderoutdoors 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: mulderoutdoors.com/shop

Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST

• 📘 How to Price My Job

• 🛒 Amazon Store

• 🧱 Pave Tool — Use MULDEROUTDOORS to save 10%

• 🔪 Blades Direct — Use MULDER20 to save $20

• 📏 Perma Paver Edging

• 👷 Brunt Workwear — Use MulderOutdoors10 to save $10

• 🍬 Albanese Candy — Official Candy of the Podcast

• 🛠️ Automatic Supply / Heritage Plus — Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST for 15% off (up to $1,500 — one per company)

• 🧱 Unilock

• 🎨 Dirty Graphix

• ⚙️ CMP Attachments

• 🚧 Engcon

• 🚜 A&D Equipment

• 📚 The Hardscape Academy

• 🪨 Amborn Stone — Call: 913-837-6729

• 💎 Latux Diamond Blades — Use code MULDER to save 20%

Today Andy is discussing various aspects of his company, from equipment upgrades like trading in excavators for newer models to the ongoing construction of a new facility to house operations. He emphasizes a philosophy of slow and financially responsible business growth, cautioning against the "10x" rapid expansion mentality prevalent online, which he believes often leads to financial instability and compromised quality. He also shares his personal insights on decision-making, including consulting his wife on large purchases and the importance of thorough employee training to maintain high service standards.

SynkedUP Contractor Summit — September 11–12, 2025 Use code MULDER to save $250 on registration! 🔗 Learn more at SynkedUP.com

📸 Instagram: @mulderoutdoors 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: mulderoutdoors.com/shop

Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST

• 📘 How to Price My Job

• 🛒 Amazon Store

• 🧱 Pave Tool — Use MULDEROUTDOORS to save 10%

• 🔪 Blades Direct — Use MULDER20 to save $20

• 📏 Perma Paver Edging

• 👷 Brunt Workwear — Use MulderOutdoors10 to save $10

• 🍬 Albanese Candy — Official Candy of the Podcast

• 🛠️ Automatic Supply / Heritage Plus — Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST for 15% off (up to $1,500 — one per company)

• 🧱 Unilock

• 🎨 Dirty Graphix

• ⚙️ CMP Attachments

• 🚧 Engcon

• 🚜 A&D Equipment

• 📚 The Hardscape Academy

• 🪨 Amborn Stone — Call: 913-837-6729

• 💎 Latux Diamond Blades — Use code MULDER to save 20%

Andy discusses equipment and technology, particularly the benefits and complexities of using a Trimble GPS rover for site layout and measurement, emphasizing its efficiency and accuracy. Additionally, the episode touches upon strategic business decisions like equipment investment and prioritizing learning new skills.

SynkedUP Contractor Summit — September 11–12, 2025 Use code MULDER to save $250 on registration! 🔗 Learn more at SynkedUP.com

📸 Instagram: @mulderoutdoors 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: mulderoutdoors.com/shop

Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST

• 📘 How to Price My Job

• 🛒 Amazon Store

• 🧱 Pave Tool — Use MULDEROUTDOORS to save 10%

• 🔪 Blades Direct — Use MULDER20 to save $20

• 📏 Perma Paver Edging

• 👷 Brunt Workwear — Use MulderOutdoors10 to save $10

• 🍬 Albanese Candy — Official Candy of the Podcast

• 🛠️ Automatic Supply / Heritage Plus — Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST for 15% off (up to $1,500 — one per company)

• 🧱 Unilock

• 🎨 Dirty Graphix

• ⚙️ CMP Attachments

• 🚧 Engcon

• 🚜 A&D Equipment

• 📚 The Hardscape Academy

• 🪨 Amborn Stone — Call: 913-837-6729

• 💎 Latux Diamond Blades — Use code MULDER to save 20%

Andy shares some exciting shop developments like a new solar-powered gate installation and free asphalt millings acquisition, plus he answers your most pressing industry questions. This episode tackles budget-friendly hardscaping equipment recommendations, strategies for maintenance companies transitioning into hardscaping, the specialization versus diversification debate, and the critical importance of backup equipment for business efficiency.

Discover Andy's refreshingly practical 11-year approach to economic uncertainty—focusing on business fundamentals like answering the phone and delivering quality work rather than getting caught up in daily headlines. Whether you’re a seasoned contractor or just starting your journey, this episode delivers real-world insights, honest business advice, and the motivation to keep building your business regardless of external circumstances.

SynkedUP Contractor Summit — September 11–12, 2025 Use code MULDER to save $250 on registration! 🔗 Learn more at SynkedUP.com

📸 Instagram: @mulderoutdoors 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: mulderoutdoors.com/shop

Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST

• 📘 How to Price My Job

• 🛒 Amazon Store

• 🧱 Pave Tool — Use MULDEROUTDOORS to save 10%

• 🔪 Blades Direct — Use MULDER20 to save $20

• 📏 Perma Paver Edging

• 👷 Brunt Workwear — Use MulderOutdoors10 to save $10

• 🍬 Albanese Candy — Official Candy of the Podcast

• 🛠️ Automatic Supply / Heritage Plus — Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST for 15% off (up to $1,500 — one per company)

• 🧱 Unilock

• 🎨 Dirty Graphix

• ⚙️ CMP Attachments

• 🚧 Engcon

• 🚜 A&D Equipment

• 📚 The Hardscape Academy

• 🪨 Amborn Stone — Call: 913-837-6729

• 💎 Latux Diamond Blades — Use code MULDER to save 20%

Andy discusses practical aspects of running a business, such as managing a team, handling day-to-day operations, and dealing with client relationships. A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, including balancing work with family life, coping with burnout, and the emotional toll of leadership. Andy also shares personal motivations for choosing the demanding path of business ownership, highlighting his faith, love for the work, desire to provide for his family and employees, and commitment to operating a debt-free company. Additionally, the episode touches upon industry events, recommended resources, and the company's service offerings, providing a well-rounded overview of Andy's professional world.

SynkedUP Contractor Summit — September 11–12, 2025 Use code MULDER to save $250 on registration! 🔗 Learn more at SynkedUP.com

📸 Instagram: @mulderoutdoors 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: mulderoutdoors.com/shop

Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST

• 📘 How to Price My Job

• 🛒 Amazon Store

• 🧱 Pave Tool — Use MULDEROUTDOORS to save 10%

• 🔪 Blades Direct — Use MULDER20 to save $20

• 📏 Perma Paver Edging

• 👷 Brunt Workwear — Use MulderOutdoors10 to save $10

• 🍬 Albanese Candy — Official Candy of the Podcast

• 🛠️ Automatic Supply / Heritage Plus — Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST for 15% off (up to $1,500 — one per company)

• 🧱 Unilock

• 🎨 Dirty Graphix

• ⚙️ CMP Attachments

• 🚧 Engcon

• 🚜 A&D Equipment

• 📚 The Hardscape Academy

• 🪨 Amborn Stone — Call: 913-837-6729

• 💎 Latux Diamond Blades — Use code MULDER to save 20%

Andy discusses various aspects of his landscaping and hardscaping business, touching on topics like equipment recommendations, such as the Encon tilt rotator and the Pave Tool "Bar Box" for tool storage, and employee management strategies, including uniforms and finding reliable staff. Andy also shares insights into business operations, including pricing large projects, designing landscape plans, and handling rain delays.

SynkedUP Contractor Summit — September 11–12, 2025 Use code MULDER to save $250 on registration! 🔗 Learn more at SynkedUP.com

📸 Instagram: @mulderoutdoors 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: mulderoutdoors.com/shop

Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST

• 📘 How to Price My Job

• 🛒 Amazon Store

• 🧱 Pave Tool — Use MULDEROUTDOORS to save 10%

• 🔪 Blades Direct — Use MULDER20 to save $20

• 📏 Perma Paver Edging

• 👷 Brunt Workwear — Use MulderOutdoors10 to save $10

• 🍬 Albanese Candy — Official Candy of the Podcast

• 🛠️ Automatic Supply / Heritage Plus — Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST for 15% off (up to $1,500 — one per company)

• 🧱 Unilock

• 🎨 Dirty Graphix

• ⚙️ CMP Attachments

• 🚧 Engcon

• 🚜 A&D Equipment

• 📚 The Hardscape Academy

• 🪨 Amborn Stone — Call: 913-837-6729

• 💎 Latux Diamond Blades — Use code MULDER to save 20%

Andy provides updates on the construction of a material bin pad, detailing its design and purpose for storing various landscaping materials. He also shares a significant business challenge, recounting the loss of a major maintenance contract and the resulting need to restructure routes and manage customer expectations. Furthermore, he answers listener questions, offering advice on handling customer complaints professionally and discussing equipment choices like the Bobcat E20 and Pave Tool clamps, while also addressing a curious incident involving a stolen mower.

SynkedUP Contractor Summit — September 11–12, 2025 Use code MULDER to save $250 on registration! 🔗 Learn more at SynkedUP.com

📸 Instagram: @mulderoutdoors 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: mulderoutdoors.com/shop

Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST

• 📘 How to Price My Job

• 🛒 Amazon Store

• 🧱 Pave Tool — Use MULDEROUTDOORS to save 10%

• 🔪 Blades Direct — Use MULDER20 to save $20

• 📏 Perma Paver Edging

• 👷 Brunt Workwear — Use MulderOutdoors10 to save $10

• 🍬 Albanese Candy — Official Candy of the Podcast

• 🛠️ Automatic Supply / Heritage Plus — Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST for 15% off (up to $1,500 — one per company)

• 🧱 Unilock

• 🎨 Dirty Graphix

• ⚙️ CMP Attachments

• 🚧 Engcon

• 🚜 A&D Equipment

• 📚 The Hardscape Academy

• 🪨 Amborn Stone — Call: 913-837-6729

• 💎 Latux Diamond Blades — Use code MULDER to save 20%