In this episode of Titan Talks, host Jonathan Stern speaks with Cameron Williams, owner of Camco Commercial Door Company. Cameron shares his journey as a fourth-generation garage door professional and discusses his transition from residential to commercial doors, including specialized projects like airplane hangar doors. He emphasizes the importance of gaining leads, leveraging social media and digital tools like Topline Pro for marketing. Cameron also touches on the challenges of managing a growing team and his aspirations to expand the business further in the coming years. Cameron concludes by reflecting on his proudest moments, particularly successful large-scale installations.

(0:00) - Introduction and Welcome
(1:05) - Cameron’s Origin Story
(2:45) - Starting Camco Commercial Doors
(4:25) - Splitting from the Family Business
(6:00) - Early Challenges: Gaining Leads
(7:00) - Marketing Approaches Before Topline Pro
(8:40) - Leveraging Facebook Groups for Leads
(10:15) - Getting Reviews from Customers
(11:30) - Transition to Commercial Doors
(13:10) - Current State of Camco Commercial Doors
(15:00) - Managing and Growing the Team
(17:00) - Future Goals for the Business
(18:20) - Upgrades in Equipment and Machinery
(19:20) - Process of Handling New Leads
(20:25) - Challenges in Closing Leads
(21:40) - Evolution of the Garage Door Industry
(23:40) - Rapid Fire Round: Personal Growth
(24:10) - Biggest Mistake: Marketing Investment
(24:50) - Personal Goals and Financial Freedom
(25:40) - Proudest Moments at Camco

In this Titan Talks episode, Jonathan Stern sits down with Matt Hitchcock, owner of The Grass Guys, a landscaping company in Evansville, Indiana. Matt shares how he started the business at 15 with just a push mower and grew it into a successful enterprise, despite returning to corporate work during a drought. In 2019, he took the plunge to go full-time, focusing primarily on high-end residential properties. Matt discusses the challenges of managing the business solo, the importance of a strong online presence, and the satisfaction he gets from direct customer feedback. He emphasizes the value of quality over quantity, personalized client relations, and his passion for creating immaculate lawn stripes.

(00:00) - Welcome and Introduction
(01:10) - Matt’s Early Beginnings
(03:20) - Starting the Business at 15
(06:00) - From Side Gig to Full-Time
(08:45) - Full-Time Transition in 2019
(10:30) - Benefits of Being Your Own Boss
(13:15) - Balancing Corporate and Entrepreneurship
(15:40) - State of The Business Today
(17:10) - The Power of a Great Website
(19:00) - Overcoming Winter Challenges
(21:30) - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
(22:50) - Rapid Fire

In this episode of Titan Talks, host Jonathan Stern interviews John Ross, the owner of LeafTide Solutions, a pressure washing and cleaning company based in Richmond, Virginia. John discusses his journey from dissatisfaction in a sales job to starting his own pressure washing business, LeafTide Solutions. Using his past experience with chemical applications from a car wash job and relentless self-education through YouTube and supplier support, John has grown his business significantly while leveraging modern marketing tools like Topline Pro’s before-and-after photo feature. John emphasizes the importance of detailed and personal customer service in his business approach and expresses aspirations to expand his company and provide free services to veterans. As the business approaches its first anniversary, John is booked solid through May and is cautiously optimistic about future growth, hoping it will afford him more family time.

(00:00) - Introduction and Welcome
(02:30) - John Ross’s Background and Entry into Pressure Washing
(08:15) - Transition from Sales to Starting LeafTide Solutions
(13:00) - Challenges of Establishing a Business and Learning New Skills
(18:30) - The Role of Digital Tools in Business Promotion
(23:45) - Current State and Future Plans of LeafTide Solutions
(28:20) - Strategies for Building Customer Base and Importance of Online Presence
(32:45) - Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

In this episode of Titan Talks hosted by Jonathan Stern, Nick Slavik discussed his journey in the painting industry, from working in his family's business as a child to founding his own company, Nick Slavik Painting & Restoration Co., in 2007 after being told there was no place for him in the family business. Despite the rocky start and initial challenges, Slavik's company has thrived, earning numerous national awards and growing significantly over the years. He highlighted the transformations in marketing strategies from traditional methods like newspaper ads to digital platforms like social media and Google listings, emphasizing the necessity of adapting to technological advances. Slavik also spoke about his involvement with the Painting Contractors Association, which has played a crucial role in professionalizing the industry and providing essential support and networking opportunities for painters.

(00:00) - Introduction to Titan Talks and Nick Slavik

(02:18) - Nick Slavik's Origin Story in the Painting Industry

(07:45) - Transition from Family Business to Independent Venture

(12:30) - Early Challenges in Nick's Business

(15:50) - Handling a Sudden Employee Departure

(20:10) - Scaling the Business and Hiring New Talent

(25:20) - Evolving Marketing Strategies

(28:50) - The Role and Benefits of the PCA

(32:55) - Future of the Painting Industry

(35:00) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Titan Talks, host Jonathan Stern converses with Kali Sudbrook of Beachside Interiors Design and Remodeling, detailing her unconventional journey from a career in kinesiology to becoming the owner of a remodeling company specializing in fitness and wellness spaces in Newport Beach. Sudbrook recounts the initial uncertainty and lack of a backup plan that led to her business's foundation, emphasizing the importance of passion, creativity, and problem-solving in her transition. The discussion also highlights the significance of networking, taking "messy action" over perfection, and learning from early business mistakes, particularly in estimating costs. Sudbrook's current business successes are attributed to referrals and a conscious decision to focus on select service areas due to logistical challenges. Finally, she explores the role of technologies and strategic partnerships in managing and growing her business, alongside her ambitions for national expansion.

(00:00) - Introduction

(01:15) - Kali's Journey into Remodeling

(04:05) - The Turning Point During COVID

(05:10) - Insights on Career Change and Support

(07:00) - Building a Network of Mentors

(08:30) - Favorite Part of the Remodeling Process

(10:15) - The Role of Kali's Home in Her Business

(11:40) - Kali's Wife's Support in the Business

(13:25) - Early Growth Strategies and Challenges

(15:47) - Overcoming Estimation Mistakes

(17:35) - Current State and Structure of the Business

(19:20) - Strategies for Managing Workload

(21:00) - Client Acquisition and Focus Areas

(22:15) - The Decision to Get a Website

(23:30) - Dream Project Process and Timeline

(24:00) - Rapid Fire Round

In this episode of Titan Talks, Jonathan Stern interviews Chaz Smith, the owner of the Dig It Tree Company based in Mason, Ohio. Chaz discusses the journey of his business from its inception in 2011, detailing the decision to move from Wilmington to Mason for better opportunities and the challenges of low-quality equipment and marketing mishaps they initially faced. Despite these early setbacks, Dig It Tree Company has achieved success, largely attributed to effective marketing strategies with Topline Pro and focusing on quality service within a 30-40 mile radius. Chaz shares insights into the industry’s evolution, particularly the impact of the emerald ash borer epidemic, and stresses the importance of adapting to changes and maintaining high standards. The conversation also touches on the challenges of finding committed employees and outlines Chaz’s aspirations for the company’s growth without expanding beyond their community, aiming to build a reputable local business.

(00:00) - Introduction to Titan Talks with Chaz Smith

(01:22) - Founding and Evolution of Dig It Tree Company

(03:45) - Challenges of Moving the Business

(05:17) - Learning from Early Mistakes

(07:00) - Marketing Struggles and Successes

(09:15) - Changes in the Tree Services Industry

(10:45) - Current Business Operations and Future Prospects

(12:32) - Challenges in Hiring and Business Growth Strategy

(13:50) - Advice for Aspiring Home Service Entrepreneurs

(14:30) - Reflecting on Success and Future Plans

In this episode of Titan Talks, Jonathan Stern interviews John Brouder, owner of Brouder & Sons Landscaping and Irrigation. John talks about starting his business during college and evolving it from lawn maintenance to specializing in hardscapes, irrigation, and low-voltage lighting due to the low profitability and high competition in lawn mowing. He mentions working through New England’s seasons, including performing snow plowing in winter. Despite having a small team, John emphasizes quality work and customer satisfaction, which have contributed to his success, noting the challenge of balancing expansion with maintaining personal happiness and service quality. He also discusses the potential for his sons to take over the business, highlighting his elder son David’s significant contribution during a period when John’s health was compromised.

(00:00) - Intro

(01:05) - Beginning of John Brouder’s Landscaping Journey

(02:50) - Transition from Lawn Mowing to Hardscapes and Irrigation

(04:10) - Challenges of the Lawn Maintenance Business

(05:40) - Seasonal Nature of the Landscaping Industry

(07:00) - John Brouder’s Day-to-Day & Business Administration

(08:20) - Business Growth and Employee Management Philosophy

(10:00) - Succession Plans and Involving Family in the Business

(11:30) - Building a Reputable Business and Customer Satisfaction

(13:00) - Evolution of the Landscaping Industry and Impact of Technology

(14:40) - Marketing Strategies and Changing Business Landscape Post-COVID

(16:10) - Pricing in the Competitive Landscape Industry

(17:10) - Proudest Moments Running Brouder and Sons

In this episode of Titan Talks, Joe Hennessey, the owner of Hennessey Landscaping, shares his journey of starting his business. Hennessey's passion for landscaping began in his early teens, providing lawn care and snow removal services in his neighborhood. After initially losing interest and attempting a different career path post-college, Joe reignited his passion for landscaping and eventually established Hennessey Landscaping in 2019. The company faced growth challenges, including a trial and error phase and adapting marketing strategies. Joe emphasizes the significance of digital marketing and having a robust online presence for growth. He experienced a substantial learning curve regarding business management beyond the classroom, highlighting the importance of investing in marketing and customer acquisition.

(00:00) - Introduction

(02:40) - Joe's Origin Story

(07:15) - Transitioning from a Hobby to a Career

(11:10) - The Challenges of Growing a Landscaping Business

(15:35) - A Strategic Shift in Business Location and Model

(20:20) - Marketing Strategies and Digital Transition

(25:45) - The Impact of Digital Marketing on Business Growth

(29:00) - Expanding Services and Investment in Equipment

(33:10) - Rapid Fire Round

In this episode of Titan Talks, host Jonathan Stern interviews Donald Gilbert, owner of 4 in the Fire Fencing, a successful fencing company based in Darlington, South Carolina. Gilbert discusses the origins of his company name, which reflects a biblical reference and the initial partnership with his two sons and a close silent partner friend, Steve. He shares the challenges and learning experiences encountered when starting the business, as well as the growth of the company, which now employs seven people with plans for further expansion. Donald emphasizes the importance of professionalism, customer service, and the significant boost that a professional website through Topline Pro has given his business in acquiring new customers. Lastly, he reflects on the pride he feels for his sons' growth and contribution to the business, his engagement with the local community, and his optimistic outlook for the company's future.

(0:30) - Introduction

(2:45) - The Origin of 4 in the Fire Fencing

(5:30) - Biblical Reference and Business Name Origin

(7:20) - Juggling Pastoral Duties and Fencing Business

(10:40) - The Start of the Fencing Journey

(15:50) - Collaboration over Competition

(18:05) - Early Business Mistakes and Learning Curves

(20:30) - Expansion and Employee Growth

(22:45) - Choosing the Right Team Members

(24:40) - Marketing and Customer Acquisition

(27:10) - Decision to Get a Website

(31:20) - Rapid Fire Round: Future Plans, Handling Negative Feedback, and Surprising Aspects of Business Ownership, Proudest Moment

In this podcast episode, host Jonathan Stern interviews Adam Kruer, the Director of Operations and Sales at Lamb's Lawn & Landscaping in Floyd's Knobs, Indiana. Adam shares his journey into the landscaping industry, starting from cutting grass during college to eventually joining Lamb's Lawn, where he managed to expand from handling 40 yards on his own to overseeing 400 yards as part of Lamb's Lawn. Adam touches on how the company is preparing for the upcoming spring season, and shares insights into the company’s adoption of new technology, such as CompanyCam, for improving job record-keeping and crew accountability. Lastly, Adam expresses his vision for the future growth of Lamb's Lawn & Landscaping, emphasizing maintaining a 'small town company' feel despite expansion and the importance of family-like company culture.

(00:00) - Introduction to Adam Kruer and Lamb's Lawn & Landscaping

(01:15) - Adam's Path to Landscaping and Starting His Own Business

(05:00) - Decision to Join Lamb's Lawn & Role Evolution

(08:45) - The Transition from Doer to Manager

(12:00) - Preparing for the Spring Season and Business Operations

(15:30) - Current Business Scale and Staffing

(18:45) - Top Challenges and Implementing CompanyCam

(22:00) - Balancing Cost Control and Quality Service

(24:15) - Rapid Fire Round