Two Tree Guys

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.

In this episode, we dive into the adventurous life of a man who’s lived a journey full of physical challenges and personal growth. From his Minnesota roots to Colorado, he excelled in sports like rock climbing, wrestling, and diving, even earning a scholarship for art. After a year of college wrestling, he joined the Marine Corps, which reshaped his perspective on leadership and life. He went on to pursue ice climbing, raft guiding, and tree work, eventually becoming a foreman. After training for Navy SEALs and an injury in BUD/S, he returned to tree work and now trains others at the Colorado Academy. Tune in to hear how his diverse experiences shaped his path and personal philosophy.

Join us with The Academy Instructors after their 2023 Summit Meeting where they share their experiences with teaching and working production.

Alex, Geoff, and Ryan join us from The Academy training facility in Loveland, CO to talk about their paths into the industry, near misses, gear and more.

Join lead instructors Andy and Kyel from the CO Academy Bootcamp as they break down what it takes to run a successful three-day tree care training bootcamp. Covering everything from intense pre-camp prep—sourcing wood, gathering gear, and setting up training spaces—to hands-on training days focused on chainsaw safety, climbing operations, and working aloft, they give listeners a roadmap for hosting a safe, efficient, and engaging bootcamp. Hear tips on managing trainer-to-student ratios, engaging seasoned participants, keeping energy high, and fostering a team-oriented learning environment. Perfect for tree care professionals looking to elevate training in their own teams, this episode emphasizes the importance of investing in people, planning, and a passion for safety.