The #2 Septic Podcast

The secret to scaling a septic business isn’t just trucks, tools, or even price—it’s service, culture, and professionalism. In this episode, Mason shares how he built a thriving septic and portable toilet company in just five years, earned 250+ reviews, and turned customer experience into a serious growth engine.Plus, we dive into the numbers that actually drive profitability. Check out the featured Plumbing Sales Coach to help you track your margins, price accurately, and ensure your business is built to scale.If you’re a trades business owner, entrepreneur, or service leader, this conversation is packed with practical ways to increase reviews, improve team culture, and stand out in a crowded market. What You’ll Learn:How Mason grew a septic company from zero to 250+ reviews in just five yearsWhy “six-star service” creates customer loyalty and referralsThe hiring strategy that prioritizes attitude and charisma over experienceHow to build a stronger team culture with simple daily habitsThe metrics Mason watches to improve performance and revenue per callWhy offering 3 quote options helps customers choose the right solutionHow to scale without getting stuck doing everything yourselfWhat adding portable toilets taught him about operations, demand, and leadershipTimestamps: [00:00] - Introduction[00:50] - How the business started[05:08] - Building reviews through service[08:27] - Hiring for attitude and culture[12:10] - Tracking metrics and call averages[15:20] - Competing on value, not price[19:16] - Letting go and delegating[21:38] - Adding portable toilets[23:21] - Marketing and website strategy[30:33] - Final advice for business ownersAbout the Guest/Show: Mason Rickner is the owner of KM Excavation in Stroud, Oklahoma, where he leads a growing septic and portable toilet business. He also works as an Oklahoma City firefighter, bringing a service-first mindset and strong leadership to everything he does.If you found this episode helpful, make sure to subscribe, like, and turn on notifications for more interviews and business growth insights. #SepticBusiness #SmallBusinessGrowth #BlueCollarBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPodcast 

If you’re a septic business owner, service-based entrepreneur, or family-run business leader, this episode is packed with practical insights you can use right away. Ashley sits down with Julio and Sandy Vega of VSE Septic Services in Austin, Texas, to talk about building a successful husband-and-wife business, delivering exceptional customer service, and using systems and AI to scale without losing the human touch. From hiring for attitude to creating a paperless, process-driven operation, this conversation is full of real-world lessons from a company that’s been serving its community for 20 years.What You’ll Learn:• How Julio and Sandy built a thriving septic business together over two decades• Why “hire for attitude, train for skill” is one of their most important hiring philosophies• How they keep business and marriage separate while working side by side• Why field restoration and maintenance became their niche in a crowded industry• How bilingual service has helped them better serve their Texas community• The systems they rely on to stay organized, efficient, and scalable• How AI is helping them improve customer communication, follow-up, and internal workflowsTimestamps:[00:38] How the business started[09:39] Advice for working with your spouse[13:03] Hiring for attitude and building company culture[21:13] Serving Spanish-speaking customers[25:48] Hardest challenges in business[28:08] Crucial systems and processes[32:31] How they use AI in the business[41:16] Million-dollar advice for septic ownersJulio and Sandy Vega are the owners of VSE Septic Services, a full-service septic company based in the Austin, Texas area, with a strong focus on customer-first field restoration, repairs, and maintenance. On this episode of the Number Two Septic Podcast, they share hard-earned lessons on leadership, teamwork, and building a business with integrity.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe for more conversations with industry experts, hit the like button, and check out the links in the description for more resources and information.#SepticBusiness #SmallBusinessTips #BusinessOwner #AIforBusiness #PodcastInterview

Dive into the world of Wastewater Management with Logan Holekamp from Guadalupe Wastewater. Discover how Logan transformed a family business into a thriving enterprise in the heart of Texas Hill Country.What You'll Learn:The journey from survival mode to thriving business ownerInsights into managing a multi-generational family businessThe importance of community and collaboration in the wastewater industryTips for hiring and building a strong teamFuture trends and innovations in wastewater managementTimestamps Placeholder:[00:00] - Introduction[02:00] - Logan's Business Journey[10:00] - Industry Insights[20:00] - Building a Strong Team[30:00] - Future of Wastewater ManagementLogan Holekamp is the owner of Guadalupe Wastewater, a leading provider in the Texas Hill Country. With decades of experience, Logan shares his journey and insights into the wastewater industry.If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, like, and check out the links below for more insights and updates!#WastewaterManagement #FamilyBusiness #TexasHillCountry #SepticBusiness #WasteWaterManagement

Dive into the world of septic systems with Thomas Wayne, the operations manager at Burleson Septic Cleaning. Discover how this family-run business evolved over 54 years to become a leader in septic solutions. Join us for an insightful conversation on innovation, customer care, and the future of septic technology.What You'll Learn:The journey from a small family business to a full-service septic companyHow technology is transforming septic maintenanceThe importance of company culture in business growthTips for maintaining your septic system effectivelyInsights into the challenges and rewards of the septic industryTimestamps Placeholder:[00:00] - Introduction[05:10] - Company Evolution[10:30] - Technology in Septic Systems[15:45] - Building a Strong Company Culture[20:00] - Customer Care and Maintenance TipsAbout the Guest/Show:Thomas Wayne brings years of experience and a passion for innovation to Burleson Septic Cleaning. This episode of the Number Two Septic Podcast explores the intersection of tradition and technology in the septic industry.If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, like, and share! Check out the links below for more information and resources.#SepticSolutions #InnovationInSeptic #SepticMaintenance #FamilyBusiness #SepticTechnology

The conversation delves into the need for marketing in the septic industry, exploring factors such as market share, competition, content consumption, and the influence of the younger generation. It also highlights the importance of online presence, reviews, and the role of marketing services in addressing these needs.TakeawaysUnderstanding market share is crucialThe impact of competition on the need for marketingChapters00:00 The Need for Marketing06:05 Competition and Franchise Dynamics12:14 Influence of Younger Generation and Marketing Investment17:50 Importance of Online Presence and Reviews

The conversation covers five red flags to watch out for when spending money on marketing. It emphasizes the importance of being cautious when working with family and friends, ensuring access to ad accounts, avoiding PMAX campaigns, prioritizing Google reviews, and tracking marketing results for business growth and success.TakeawaysFamily and businessAd account accessPMAX campaignsGoogle reviewsTracking resultsChapters00:00 Family and Business08:15 PMAX Campaigns13:23 Tracking Results

The conversation with Taylor Broussard, founder of FieldBase Onsite, delves into the development and impact of septic-specific software. It covers the challenges of manual processes, the benefits of time-saving solutions, and the enhancement of customer experience. The discussion also explores the adaptability of the software to regulatory changes, its impact on cash flow, and its comprehensive service management capabilities. Additionally, it highlights the user-friendly design and the importance of customer communication and experience. The conversation covers the topics of elevating customer experience, efficiency and growth through FieldBase, data visibility and insights, and streamlining paperwork and administration. Each chapter delves into the details of these themes, providing valuable insights and practical applications for businesses using FieldBase.TakeawaysTime-saving softwareImproved customer experience Elevating customer experienceEfficiency and growth through FieldBaseData visibility and insightsStreamlining paperwork and administrationChapters00:00 The Birth of FieldBase06:43 Customer Experience and Renewals16:18 Adapting to Regulatory Changes21:46 Comprehensive Service Management26:59 Elevating Customer Experience32:24 Streamlining Paperwork and Administration

Roy Waldrop, CEO and founder of RJ Controls, shares insights on founding the company, building a reputation, challenges in septic installation, remote monitoring and technology, the future of technology in septic systems, maintenance and repair of electrical components, and business growth and networking in the industry.TakeawaysCustomer serviceIndustry insightsChapters00:00 Founding RJR Controls06:00 Challenges in Septic Installation11:02 Remote Monitoring and Technology20:25 Future of Technology in Septic Systems30:27 Business Growth and Networking

Discover how one septic client overcame verification hurdles to generate 50 qualified leads in just nine days, spending less than $30 per call. I'll share the secret sauce behind these results and how you can avoid costly pitfalls.Join me as I dive into the tactics that turned this campaign into a success, like overcoming Google verification roadblocks and ensuring every call is answered. I'll provide insights on boosting visibility with high review counts and immediate follow-ups, and how AI tools are transforming lead rating and review generation. You'll learn the critical elements that make or break your local service ads, especially handling verification issues and securing reviews quickly. If you're frustrated by high costs and low results, or hungry for proven tactics, this episode is for you. Learn to dominate your local septic marketing, septic Local Service Ads, and turn every lead into a loyal customer. https://groundbreakermarketing.com/septic-local-service-ads/

Join Mike Brasovan as he gives a demo of Works4U, a software that helped one septic company increase its customer retention and grow by 25%. They transitioned from paper-based chaos to streamlined, data-driven operations. In just weeks, businesses are seeing faster data entry, real-time reporting, and significant growth. Discover key features like inspection scheduling, permit tracking, and GPS routing that reduce costs and boost profits. Mike shares real-world success stories and future tech upgrades, ensuring your business stays ahead in a competitive market. If you're a septic or excavation company owner eager to simplify operations and enhance profitability, this episode is your guide to smarter business management. Tune in to learn how to elevate your efficiency and customer satisfaction with innovative tools.Mike Brasovan, founder of Works4U, is dedicated to empowering septic companies through technology, drawing from decades of experience in energy tech and field operations.This episode is your gateway to a more efficient, profitable future. Listen now to transform your business. Learn more at: worx4u.com

Setting up a Google Business Profile is crucial for businesses in the excavation, septic, and site prep industries, as it can lead to a significant increase in calls and revenue. The process involves verifying the profile, optimizing it, and ensuring accurate and consistent information.TakeawaysGoogle Business Profile is a free tool that can significantly increase business calls and revenue.Verifying the Google Business Profile involves video verification and providing consistent and accurate business information.Chapters00:00 Importance of Google Business Profile06:15 Challenges in Profile Verification and Reclaiming Ownership11:30 Video Verification Process and Requirements

Trust and credibility are the bedrock of any successful digital strategy. In this technical deep-dive, we explore the critical importance of maintaining accurate, consistent business data across the Google ecosystem.What we cover:The Measurement Mindset: Tracking results beyond the "vanity" metrics.Technical Infrastructure: Implementing Schema markup and managing complex DBA/Legal configurations.Operational Excellence: The impact of consistent hours and location data on consumer behavior.Ad Compliance: Navigating the rigorous identity verification process for paid campaigns.We wrap up with a candid look at why business organization isn't just a chore—it’s a prerequisite for Google’s "stamp of approval."https://groundbreakermarketing.com/best-business-name-for-a-septic-company

In this episode, we discuss the basics of marketing terminology and the differences between Google Local Service Ads and Google Pay-per-click Ads. We also explain the significance of Google Maps, Google Business Profile, AI Overview, and SEO in marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of investing in Google Maps and Google Pay-per-click Ads for business growth.TakeawaysGoogle Local Service Ads vs. Google Pay-per-click AdsUnderstanding the basics of marketing terminologyLearn more at: https://groundbreakermarketing.com/ads-vs-seo-for-septic-companies/

Are your Google reviews driving new customers to your door, or is your profile gathering dust? In this episode, we break down why a well-optimized Google Business Profile is the ultimate lead magnet for local service companies and how you can stay ahead of the competition in Google Maps.We move past the "black hat" tactics to share real-world, effective strategies for building a reputation that lasts. From the power of the in-person request to using QR codes and AI tools to simplify the process, we cover the exact steps you need to take to get consistent, genuine feedback from your customers.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why Reviews are Revenue: The direct link between your Google Map ranking and your bottom line.The "Right Now" Strategy: Why asking for a review before you leave the job site is your highest-converting tactic.Ethics & Incentives: How to motivate your team to collect reviews without breaking Google’s rules.Ninja Hacks: Creative ways to get character references and reviews from non-customers to boost your credibility.Stop leaving your online reputation to chance. Tune in to learn how to turn your happy customers into your best marketing team.Chapters: 00:00 – The Importance of Google Reviews 09:55 – Asking for Reviews in Personhttps://groundbreakermarketing.com/google-reviews-for-excavation-companies/

If your business relies entirely on word-of-mouth, you’re not in control of your own growth. In this episode, we discuss why "referrals only" is a risky strategy and how to build a marketing plan that actually scales.We break down the practical tools every service business needs, from Google Business Profiles to Local Service Ads. We also get honest about the "who" and "how" of marketing: Should you hire an outside agency or do it yourself? How do you spot a bad marketing company before you sign a contract?Whether you are a local specialist or operating across multiple states, this conversation provides a clear roadmap for taking control of your lead generation.What We CoverThe Problem with Referrals: Why word-of-mouth eventually hits a ceiling.Google Business Profile: How to make sure customers can actually find you.Hiring Help: How to vet a marketing company so you don’t waste your money.Specialized Markets: Marketing strategies for niche industries.Chapters00:00 – The Limitations of Referrals09:13 – Local Service Ads and Lead Generation16:31 – Hiring an Agency vs. Keeping it In-House

In this episode, Ashley Christian sits down with Bill Vaughan, co-owner of FnD Piers (Fast and Dependable) and co-author of Next Day Helicals. Bill shares his 13-year journey from a 100% drilling-focused contractor to a manufacturing and engineering powerhouse where 80% of revenue now comes from helical products. We dive deep into the "moment of discovery" that saved his business from the struggle of commodity drilling and explore his unconventional, high-accountability philosophy on hiring and training a team that actually adds value to your bottom line.Key Takeaways:The Helical Pivot: Bill explains how moving from traditional casing and straight shaft piers to helicals allowed them to complete jobs in two days that previously took a month, even in poor weather or soil conditions.Escaping the "Race to the Bottom": Why straight shaft drilling is often a commodity with low margins, and how specialized technical expertise like manufacturing your own product can create a massive competitive advantage.The Reality of Partnership: A candid look at the "iron sharpens iron" relationship between Bill and his co-owner, Norman, and how their differing strengths—the "cattle prod" and the "cup of coffee"—drive the business forward.Hiring with Discernment: Bill shares his "non-HR friendly" but practical signs of a worthless worker versus a "quality human" who is simply down on their luck, and why you should never bring someone else's unhealthiness into your organization.The Power of Video Training: How FnD Piers used graphic safety videos (including "squishing a guy's finger off") to virtually eliminate job site accidents.Notable Quotes:"Running a business is like chewing on glass and walking into the abyss at the same time.""If a man can't take care of himself, he can't take care of anybody else.""Nothing's going to teach you to ride the bull like riding the bull."