Eric sits down with one of his longtime team members, Mark VanderWoude, for a bittersweet conversation as Mark is leaving The Pond Digger team to pursue a career in law enforcement. They discuss Mark’s journey from working on ponds to preparing for the police academy and reminisce about the good times, the challenges, and the strong bond they’ve built over the years.

In this episode, they talk about…

• Mark’s decision to join the San Bernardino Police Academy and how his time at The Pond Digger prepared him

• Mark’s early days at the ranch and how he transitioned into the construction team

• Fond memories of out-of-town trips, team dinners, and the camaraderie within the team

• Lessons Mark learned during his time at Pond Digger–the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. 

• The role of camaraderie and teamwork at The Pond Digger and how it compares to the camaraderie expected in law enforcement

• The emotional challenges of leadership and the lessons Mark learned from working with a close-knit team

• Mark’s long-term vision for his career in law enforcement and his goal of joining SWAT

Links to resources: 

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger - https://theponddigger.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 

Today’s guest is Mark MJ Wilson, a.k.a. The Pond Advisor, from the UK. MJ has over 35 years of experience in the water gardening industry and has written the upcoming book, Pond Passion to Profit: Achieving Prosperity and Fulfilment in the Business of Water Features, to help hobbyists passionate about ponds turn their pond and water feature passions into thriving, profitable businesses.

In this episode, they talk about…

• Mark’s new book, Pond Passion to Profit to help people turn their passion for ponds into a business

• How can hobbyists passionate about ponds turn that passion into a profitable business

• Stigma and challenges hobbyists face when they try to monetize their passion

• The importance of understanding basic business principles like cost of entry, specialization, and cash flow management

• Balancing passion, skills, and profitability when starting a pond-related business

• The services and offerings of POND College—workshops, sandbox training, one-on-one coaching, etc

• Mark’s personalized business coaching and mentoring programs

• The role of accountability and discipline in helping entrepreneurs achieve their goals

• The benefits of having a personal trainer or coach in business

• Dealing with the voices in your head that provide unhelpful advice

• The importance of having structure, discipline, and freedom in running a successful business

Mentioned:

Join The Priority List for Pond Passion to Profit book: https://www.inspiredbypublishing.co.uk/pond-passion-to-profit 

The Pond AdvisorWebsite: http://thepondadvisor.co.uk/ 

The Pond Advisor on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePondAdvisor/ 

The Pond Advisor on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEhx1ZATHf4YjV4dDNfpDEQ 

Mark Wilson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepondadvisor/?hl=en 

Links to resources: 

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger - https://theponddigger.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

Eric interviews Ramy Guirguis, the organizer of the first annual LA Pet Fair. The LA Pet Fair is a groundbreaking pet show, which brought together a wide array of animals, reptiles, birds, aquatic animals, etc. It took place in June 2024. They discuss the fair’s origins, its success, and future plans for the fair.

In this episode, they talk about…

• The origin story of the LA Pet Fair event 

• How Ramy overcame initial vendor hesitation to create a successful first-year event

• The fair’s success and the response from vendors and attendees

• Vendor spaces and booth management at the event

• Future plans for the LA Pet Fair and potential improvements

• Importance of cross-promoting the different exhibit areas (reptiles, aquariums, birds) to attendees

• Ramy’s goal of growing the pet industry and introducing new people to the hobby

• Ramy’s memorable experiences from the event

Mentioned:

Call Ramy Guirguis at (619) 281-PETS (7387)

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

Reptile Super Show website: https://reptilesupershow.com/ 

Links to resources: 

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger - https://theponddigger.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

Eric sits down with Kyle Weemhoff to discuss the upcoming Atlantic - OASE Professional Pond Conference 2024, taking place in Denver, Colorado. They discuss the unique aspects of the conference, what attendees can expect, the growing diversity of the Atlantic Professional Contractor Network, networking opportunities,  educational sessions and workshops that will be offered, and exciting activities.

In this episode, they talk about…

• What makes the Atlantic-OASE Professional Pond Conference different from other conferences

• The main goals of the conference and how it aims to improve both the technical and business skills of contractors

• Educational sessions and workshops at the conference – Koi keeping, Lake therapy, Phosphate binders, advanced filtration techniques, etc

• Types of water gardening products and courses that are offered at the conference

• Marketing techniques and business growth strategies covered at the conference – email marketing, personal branding, sales mastery, etc

• Networking opportunities and the importance of connecting with other professionals in the industry

• Contractor of the Year award — importance of this award, what it takes to win, and how it motivates contractors to strive for excellence

• Keynote speakers to expect at the conference and what insights they are going to bring to the table

• Why attending the conference is important for contractors

• Details of the Atlantic-OASE Professional Pond Conference:

• Date: October 23-24, 2023

• Location: Denver, Colorado

• Hotel: The Rally Hotel in Denver

• Use promo code Pond Digger to get a discount of $100

Mentioned:

Atlantic-Oase Professional Conference Website: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/conference 

Register for the 2024 Professional Conference: https://forms.office.com/e/QLbnY4UZ3H 

Links to resources: 

Stop struggling with sales! Transform your business with Eric’s FREE list of Contractor Sales Secrets and start moving in the right direction. Click here to download it: Contractor Sales Secrets.

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger - https://theponddigger.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 

Eric sits down with Mike Claudio of WinRate Consulting. Mike shares his journey of becoming a leader, his approach to helping contractors improve and grow in their business, and how he has continuously evolved his coaching approach. The two also talk about self-development, the importance of coachability, the value of having multiple coaches, and how Mike helps entrepreneurs and contractors achieve greater success.

In this episode, they talk about…

• Mike’s journey of becoming a leader and helping others become the best version of themselves

• Mike’s upbringing and early leadership experiences that shaped his path

• Mike’s entrepreneurial spirit and ability to continuously grow and evolve

• Transitioning from sales coaching to life coaching

• His approach to qualifying clients for his coaching services

• The balance between tough love and nurturing in Mike’s coaching of contractors

• Sniper approach to coaching (focuses on specific areas) vs. shotgun approach (addresses a wide range of topics)

• Mike’s personal faith journey and how it has impacted his workplace culture and coaching approach

• Finding the right coach for you and looking for coaches who have exited the level you want to be at next

• How coaching has helped Mike and his team grow and grow as professionals

• Insights on seasons in life, peer pressure, and personal growth

Mentioned:

Mike Claudio Website: https://www.mikeclaudio.com/

WinRate Consulting Website: https://www.winrateconsulting.com/ 

WinRate Consulting Linktree: https://linktr.ee/winrateconsulting 

Links to resources: 

Stop struggling with sales! Transform your business with Eric’s FREE list of Contractor Sales Secrets and start moving in the right direction. Click here to download it: Contractor Sales Secrets

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger - https://theponddigger.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

Many contractors often overlook the power of something as simple as a company t-shirt. It can have a major impact on how you’re perceived and the success of your business. Eric sits down with Tyson Matayas and Ron “Slayer” Yelenich to discuss the importance of team uniforms, dress code policies, and branding for establishing a professional image, fostering teamwork and collaboration, and differentiating a company from its competitors. 

In this episode, they talk about…

• The importance of company t-shirts and branding for contractors

• The impact of professional uniforms on first impressions and how clients perceive a business

• The benefits of having a consistent, coordinated team look vs. a motley crew of different clothing.

• OSHA requirements for work attire and safety apparel in some industries

• Examples of how a professional appearance can positively influence interactions with customers and other contractors

• Challenges and excuses faced when implementing company uniforms

• Strategies for implementing a company apparel policy, color schemes, branding, and managing the transition from older to newer uniforms

• Challenges and costs associated with producing company uniforms, especially for smaller runs

• Benefits of having a dress code policy for workplace attire beyond just team spirit

Links to resources: 

Stop struggling with sales! Transform your business with Eric’s FREE list of Contractor Sales Secrets and start moving in the right direction. Click here to download it: Contractor Sales Secrets

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger - https://theponddigger.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

Eric sits down with Tyson, Slayer, and Matyas to discuss the recent attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on July 13th, 2024. They discuss their initial reactions, where they were when they first heard the news, and how the event has impacted them. They also explore the political rhetoric surrounding the incident and share their personal opinions on the situation.

NOTE: This episode includes some sensitive content that may be distressing!

Links to resources: 

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger - https://theponddigger.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 

Eric sits down with Kathy Jo Ferreira and Monte Butler to discuss their third annual 4x4x48 challenge—a physical and mental endurance challenge in which participants run 4 miles every 4 hours for 48 hours. They share their planning process, navigation challenges, memorable moments, food and rest management, and the overall experience of the journey.

In this episode, they talk about…

• The 4x4x48 challenge and its importance for personal development

• How challenging yourself and creating memories with intention benefits personal development

• Role of creating accountability and having a support system completing challenges

• The planning process for their bike ride along the California coast, finding the route, timing the sunrises/sunsets, and coordinating the support vehicle

• The memorable experiences they had during the bike ride, like riding across the Golden Gate Bridge and through Big Sur at night

• The unexpected challenges and obstacles they encountered along the way and how they navigated them

• How the group documented their trip on social media and the impact it had on their supporters

• Food planning and exhaustion challenges they faced during the trip

• Their encounters with wildlife, coyotes, gophers, etc, during the bike rides

• Bringing happiness to life by creating memories with intention instead of relying on external factors

Links to resources: 

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger - https://theponddigger.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

Do you know the secret to building a pond that thrives for years? It’s working with Mother Nature. When it comes to pond building, many contractors do it in a standardized, one-size-fits-all manner without properly considering the unique characteristics of each pond. 

Kent Wallace wants to change this mindset of pond contractors. He wants contractors to understand Mother Nature’s rules and adapt their pond construction method accordingly. Instead of relying on pre-determined templates he wants contractors to tailor each pond system to work with the natural conditions present. 

In this episode, they discuss:

• The pitfalls cookie cutter approach that most contractors often take without fully understanding nature’s systems 

• How contractors often overlook the importance of flow, recirculation, and oxygenation in their designs, which can lead to failed pond systems

• Examples of how violating nature’s rules can lead to failed systems

• The importance of balancing artificial systems with natural processes

• Considering geographical factors like climate, sunlight, seasons, etc in designs

• Encouragement for contractors to think more holistically about circulation, oxygenation, and balancing artificial ponds with natural processes

Mentioned:

Living Water Solutions Website: https://www.livingwatersolutions.com/home.html 

Kent Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kent-wallace-77147352/ 

Links to resources: 

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger - https://theponddigger.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

The landscape of marketing is evolving, and to keep up with these changes, contractors need to ditch outdated marketing tactics and embrace a modern approach. In this episode, marketing expert Savannah Gresham shares modern marketing strategies for residential contractors. She talks about sales, communications, and marketing to people on a needs-based basis vs. wants-based, limitations of traditional marketing methods, and tips and strategies for modern marketing.

In this episode, they discuss:

• Savannah’s background and why she focuses on marketing for residential contractors

• Difference between marketing to needs-based vs. wants-based customers

• Traditional, outdated marketing methods – door knocking, flyers, billboards, etc

• Modern marketing strategies — having a solid website, using social media, running targeted ads

• Penalization by Facebook for using its tools and the mistakes contractors make with Facebook ads

• Common mistakes that contractors make when trying to market themselves online —boosting posts instead of running full ad campaigns, not including an attractive offer in their ads

• Tips for contractors to improve their online presence and social media strategies

• How can contractors improve their sales techniques

• When contractors should consider hiring a marketing agency vs. trying to do it themselves

• Strategies for contractors when hiring a marketing agency

• How can understanding personality types and communication styles help contractors be more effective in their marketing and sales efforts

• How to connect with clients and have more natural, responsive sales conversations

Mentioned:

Mill Creek Marketing Website: https://millcreekmktg.com/ 

Modern Marketing for Residential Contractors Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/modernmarketingresidentialcontractors 

Savannah Gresham on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084920866433 

Savannah Gresham on Ig: https://www.instagram.com/sav.gresham/ 

Links to resources: 

Stop struggling with sales! Transform your business with Eric’s FREE list of Contractor Sales Secrets and start moving in the right direction. Click here to download it: Contractor Sales Secrets

Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett

The Pond Digger - https://theponddigger.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