With 20 years in journalism, Milly Stiles has built a career diving deep into industries that fascinate her. From newspapers to parenting magazines to marketing, her path led her to Arbor Times, where she now serves as editor. Covering everything from equipment and plant healthcare to business insights, Milly values the arborist community’s respect for veterans and safety. Got a story idea or expertise to share? Reach out at [email protected]—because every voice in the industry matters.

From semi-pro musician to entrepreneur, Dr. Jean The Results Queen has spent 24 years helping businesses grow and thrive. She dives into the realities of business partnerships, leadership, and the four key functions of every company—marketing, sales, operations, and finance. Success isn’t solo; top performers build strong teams. Whether you need to change, end, or embrace a situation, Dr. Jean helps you think Z to A—start with the goal and map the path to get there.

After 17 years in the pawn industry, Rhonda Bell found a new passion in arborist gear. Now at Tree Tools USA, a female-owned arborist superstore, she helps pros test saddles, take manufacturer-led classes, and gear up for events like Pizza & PPE. Join Rhonda as she shares industry insights, gear tips, and her journey from the counter to the canopy.

Introducing Hands Up—the game-changing retention connector from Hexarope. This knotless choking device for rigging and speed lining offers unmatched simplicity and efficiency, with three sizes rated for 4, 6, and 8 tons. Designed by expert splicers in France, Hexarope is redefining rigging safety with durable, no-moving-parts innovation. While Hands Up isn’t in the U.S. yet, it’s set to make waves in 2025. Tune in to learn how this revolutionary tool is increasing efficiency, safety, and ease of use for arborists and riggers worldwide!

From dirtbag college groundsman to pro golfer in Hawaii, world-traveling adventure guide, and now a key account rep for Arborwear—Kevin Tierney’s journey is anything but ordinary. After 12 years leading tours across 35 countries with Backroads, he found his way to Arborwear, where rugged meets functional in workwear. Tune in as we dive into Kevin’s wild path, the tight-knit tree care industry, and the gear that keeps it all going.

From a curious kid climbing trees in Sonoma to a groundbreaking inventor in the arborist world, this is the story of innovation born from passion and persistence. After a near-death experience as a child and years of learning about trees, pruning, and woodworking, our guest's journey led to creating the revolutionary Akimbo climbing device. Hear how he turned backyard tinkering into a game-changing product, launched with GoFundMe and grit, partnered with Rock Exotica, and continually pushed the boundaries with new ideas like the Downrigger. This episode is all about resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of innovation.

Tom Smith, CEO of Century Products, shares his journey from Carolina to California, transitioning from metalwork to horticulture. In 1979, he launched a tree care company, working on major projects like Disneyland. Later, he founded Century Products, revolutionizing root and water barriers with innovative, durable designs. Despite legal battles, Tom's resilience led to industry-changing success. Tune in for his inspiring story!

In this episode, we talk with Sarah LeBlanc from Global Insurance Billing, a full-service company designed for tree removal professionals. Learn how they simplify insurance collections and billing, provide state-specific contracts, and support tree contractors in navigating insurance claim jobs. With a membership-based portal and a focus on building client trust, Global Insurance Billing helps tree experts save time and maximize earnings. Discover essential tips for pricing, documentation, and working with adjusters to streamline your business and get paid faster. Don’t miss this inside look at transforming the way tree companies handle insurance claims!

In this episode, we talk with an arborist who transitioned from the oil field to the tree care industry, falling in love with the work on day one. With seven years of experience, he shares his journey from double-line to single-line climbing and his goal to explore contract climbing across the country to learn from different styles and perspectives—because "outside eyes are the best eyes.

Justin shares his journey from Boston to Hawaii, overcoming challenges in leadership, teamwork, and business ownership. He discusses the importance of building strong teams, putting the right people in the right roles, and leading by example to earn respect and trust. Justin emphasizes communication, coaching, and fostering a positive attitude to help teams grow, step up, and succeed—one small step at a time.