The Beer Garden

Welcome back to The Beer Garden, the only podcast where landscaping pros talk KPIs over IPAs. This week, we’re turning data into dollars with a deep dive into Production KPIs, the numbers that show you where you’re winning, where you’re bleeding, and what success actually looks like on the jobsite. Whether you’re running the company, managing crews, or out in the field, this one’s for you. Because: "You can’t fix what you don’t measure. And you definitely can’t scale chaos."   🧭 What We Cover: Why Production KPIs Matter Total Revenue Produced (per crew/ per day) Revenue Per Man Hour Gross Profit Per Man Hour Utilization Rate Budget Variance Quality Score Labor Cost % of Revenue Deficiency Visits Caused Planned Production Rate vs Actual Staff Projection   🍻 Beers of the Episode: •Michelob Ultra •Outer Range Brewing – Paint Like a Boss Whether you're chasing better margins, stronger crews, or a smoother operation—KPIs are your compass. This episode will help you put numbers to what matters and build a culture that performs.   📩 Got questions or want help implementing? Hit us up:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

This week, we’re talking about one of the biggest game-changers for growing businesses: outsourcing your customer service. If you’ve ever wondered how to get yourself out of the phone-and-email whirlwind without sacrificing customer satisfaction, this episode is for you. Whether you’re curious about virtual reps, tired of being the complaint department, or ready to reclaim your day — we break down the pros, cons, and must-knows of two popular outsourcing models. Plus, you’ll hear how Brandon and Jason have personally structured, trained, and scaled their customer service teams (with a few war stories along the way).   🧩 What We Covered: Overview of The Two Main Outsourcing Models Call Center Model Dedicated Outsourced Representatives Training & Onboarding Role & Responsibilities Cost Comparisons Where to Find Representatives   🍻 Featured Beers: •Michelob Ultra •Knotted Root Brewing: Moist Green Organic https://www.knottedrootbrewing.com/contact   📚 Resources Mentioned: Loom – For screen-recorded training Trainual – For building onboarding systems OnlineJobs.ph – Trusted Freelance Classified Go2 - Outsourced CSR Agency Market Hill - Executive Assistant Agency   📩 Got questions or want help implementing? Hit us up:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

🎙️ Episode Description: Let’s face it, great workmanship alone won’t win you lifelong customers anymore. In this episode of The Beer Garden, Jason and Brandon crack open a couple of cold ones and dive deep into the art (and science) of creating an exceptional customer experience. From Disney’s trash can placements to crafting a landscaping version of a blockbuster movie plot, this episode is all about going beyond good service, and into the territory of unforgettable, loyalty-building experiences. We explore what makes for exceptional vs expected, how to create systems and culture around wow-worthy moments, and how small tweaks in personalization, communication, and staff training can make a massive difference in customer retention, referrals, and your reputation. So pour yourself something cold, and let’s talk about trash cans & renewal rates.   ⏱️ What We Covered: •The Power of Exceptional Customer Experience •Attention to Detail •Personalization •Continuous Improvement •Create an Effortless Experience •Build Your StoryBrand •Training for Consistency and Excellence •Strategies to Elevate Customer Satisfaction •Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them •Last Call: Speed Round   🍺 Beers of the Week: •Half Hitch Brewing – Papa Bear Prairie Ale •Emporium Brewing – Dope IPA   📚 Resources Mentioned: •Be Our Guest – Disney Institute •Building a StoryBrand – Donald Miller •The Effortless Experience – Matthew Dixon •DisneyU – Doug Lipp •Breakthrough Academy (BTA) – https://www.btacademy.com/   💬 Connect & Share: If you found this episode valuable, share it with your team or tag a fellow pro in our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebeergardenlandscape And if you want to keep turning jobs into long-term relationships, don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a 5-star review wherever you listen.   📩 Got questions or want help implementing? Hit us up:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

Most of us have been guilty of it—handing a new hire a shovel and saying, “Follow this guy.” That might get the job done (barely), but it won’t build a high-performing team. In this episode of The Beer Garden, we dive deep into how to build a real-deal training program that actually develops your people—and your business. We’re breaking down how to create a scalable, repeatable system that trains new hires, grows future leaders, and builds a strong culture of excellence. From onboarding to ongoing skill development to performance-based certifications, we lay out the full blueprint. Whether you're building a training program from scratch or upgrading your current system, this one's packed with practical strategies. What We Cover: Why throwing new hires to the wolves isn’t a strategy What to include in your first 30–90 days of training How to build ongoing training that keeps your team engaged Designing a skill progression system with certifications and raises The DORAGI method for hands-on learning How to track training progress and ensure real results Why training is just as important for managers as it is for technicians 🎧 Whether you're a growing landscape business or a snow removal crew looking to level up, this episode will give you the tools to go from chaotic onboarding to a well-oiled training machine.   📚 Resources Mentioned: •Quality Driven Software - https://www.qualitydrivensoftware.com/ •Trainual - https://trainual.com/ •Greenius - https://gogreenius.com/ •The Art of Learning by Joshua Waitzkin •Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi   🍺 The Beverages: •Banded Peak Brewing - Mount Crushmore •Ommegang Brewing - Cooper's Hop

If your idea of a financial system is just “hoping there’s money left after payroll,” this one’s for you. In this episode of The Beer Garden, we’re joined by Michelle Ennis, Chartered Accountant, co-founder of Landscapers By Nature, and Head of Finance at Hypha Dynamics, to talk about transforming your company’s financials from a black box into a leadership tool. Michelle shares how she went from being the only person reviewing financials to building a system that involved the entire leadership team, and how that shift led to faster decisions, more accountability, and major wins for the business. We cover: Why Financial Structure Matters Setting Up Your Chart of Accounts Monthly Financial Review Meetings The Monthly Financial Cadence Tips for Involving Your Management Team Action Steps 🍺 The Beverages: Loveland Aleworks - Haze Bros of the Galaxy 2 Towns Ciderhouse - Pacific Pineapple Cider Knotted Root Brewing - One Million Dollars   📩 Got questions or want help implementing? Hit us up:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

Ever feel like your crews spend more time in traffic than on turf? Then this episode is for you. In this week’s episode of The Beer Garden, we’re breaking down one of the most overlooked levers of profitability in landscaping and snow: route density. That’s right, how close your job sites are to one another can make or break your bottom line. We’ll crack open a cold one and dive into: Why route density is your best friend when it comes to labor efficiency, fuel costs, and scheduling sanity The hidden (and expensive) costs of poor route planning How to build tighter routes using tech, service zones, and territory-based marketing The micro-shop strategy: how satellite yards can transform your ops and hiring Metrics that matter: How to actually measure your route efficiency Real-world tips to avoid common route planning mistakes We also chat through examples, tactics, and some near-disasters from our own businesses. If you’re looking to grow smarter, not just bigger, this one’s a must-listen. Remember, tighter routes = fatter margins!   The Beverages: •Wild Rose Brewery - Big Hoodoo Lager •TRVE Brewing Co. - Tunnel of Trees   📩 Got questions or want help implementing? Hit us up:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Beer Garden, we’re tackling one of the most chaotic (and costly) problems in many landscape and snow companies: inconsistent, unstructured pay. If your crew members are randomly asking for raises… if your hiring conversations feel like a poker game… or if payroll feels more like a monthly gamble than a strategy—this episode is for you. We break down exactly how to build and implement a standardized pay structure that improves morale, simplifies hiring, and ensures your payroll actually makes sense for your margins. You’ll learn: Why standardized pay reduces drama and turnover How to build role-based compensation with clear skill expectations How to handle top performers and low performers within the system How to roll out your new system (without blowing up your team) How to make it part of your hiring, training, and performance management We even share a real-world example wage sheet and give actionable steps you can take this week to start building or refining your own system. 📎 Mentioned in This Episode: ✅ Download the Sample Wage Sheet ✅ Book: Simple Numbers, Straight Talk, Big Profits by Greg Crabtree ✅ Book: The Great Game of Business by Jack Stack   The Beverages: Banded Peak Brewing - Mount Crushmore New Image Brewing - Quad Dub 📩 Got questions or want help implementing your own system? Hit us up:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Beer Garden, we’re digging into one of the most misunderstood—but most impactful—tools in your estimating arsenal: production rates. Whether you're still eyeballing bids or operating off tiered pricing, understanding production rates can help you price more consistently, boost profitability, and simplify performance conversations with your team. What we cover: What are production rates Why production rates matter Sales & production team tensions How to determine your production rates Why being too specific with your production rates can cause trouble How production rates differ based on average job size (AJS)    📈 Whether you're just starting to formalize your estimating process or ready to fine-tune your numbers like a pro, this episode has something for every landscape or snow removal contractor. 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and let’s finally stop guessing our way through job pricing.   The Beverages: Crooked Stave - Nightmare on Brett Jasper Brewing Co. - Crispy Tall Bois   Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

Still sending quotes into the void and hoping for the best? It might be time to stop bidding and start building value. In this episode of The Beer Garden, we're doing a deep dive into how to improve your close rate for landscape maintenance contracts—without lowering prices, adding services, or spending more time on-site. Just smart strategy and better presentation. We share a real-life example of a contractor who stopped competing on price and started winning with value. By revamping their proposal, conducting proactive site inspections, and using personalized video walkthroughs, they began closing high-quality clients—even when they were the most expensive bid on the table. This episode breaks down: ✅ What your close rate says about your business ✅ How to qualify leads and target the right customers ✅ Why your proposal should act as a sales and marketing piece ✅ The game-changing impact of proactive property inspections ✅ Using tools like IssueID to show your value ✅ How a short video can build trust and help you stand out ✅ Follow-up tips and how to avoid ghosting ✅ How to track, measure, and improve your sales process over time Whether you're closing 10% or 80%, this episode will give you practical tools to improve your win rate—without sacrificing your margins. The Beverages: Wild Rose Brewing - Electric Avenue Outer Range Brewing - Colorado Cou Cou Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

If your “CRM” is a stack of sticky notes, a chaotic spreadsheet, or just whatever’s rattling around in your brain, this episode is for you. In this Beer Garden listicle episode, we’re diving into the top 10 things you should look for when picking a CRM for your landscape or snow removal business. Whether you’re making your first leap into software or realizing your current platform is more headache than help, we’re breaking down what actually matters. 🛠️ Not all CRMs are created equal, especially in our industry. From mobile usability and scheduling to automation and integrations, we’ll help you cut through the noise and figure out what will actually make your day-to-day easier. What We Cover: Industry-Specific Features – Why you probably need a Field Service Management tool, not just a CRM. Ease of Use & Mobile Accessibility – If your crew can’t use it from the truck, it’s not the right one. Estimating & Proposals – Win more jobs, faster. Customer & Job Tracking – One place for all your customer info (no more hunting for notes). Scheduling & Dispatching – Real-time updates and drag-and-drop simplicity. Invoicing & Payments – Get paid faster and stop chasing money. Integrations – How to avoid getting trapped in a software silo. Automation & Workflows – Work smarter, not harder. Reporting & Analytics – Track what matters, tweak what doesn’t. Pricing & Scalability – Pick a platform that won’t break the bank—or your brain. Plus, we’ll talk about implementation best practices, common pitfalls, and how to actually get your team to use the CRM you pick. The Beverages: Crown Float : Guinness & Strongbow Outer Range Brewing : Cosmic Sauce Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roundtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

It’s a new year, and you’re probably thinking about how to grow your business. But before you throw all your budget at Facebook ads or slap another sign on your truck, it’s time for a little strategy. In this episode of The Beer Garden, Jason introduces a concept he created called the Revenue Growth Pyramid—a smarter framework for growing your landscape or snow removal business. This episode is all about working with what you’ve already got and stacking your growth efforts in the right order: 🧱 Base – Customer Retention: Stop the leaky bucket. Keep the customers you’ve already earned. 📈 Middle – Revenue Per Customer: Maximize value with upsells, cross-sells, and premium offerings. 🎯 Top – New Customer Acquisition: Bring in new clients, but only after you’ve built the foundation. Here’s What We Cover: 🔨 Retention First: Make your business sticky. From personal connections to professional onboarding and measuring retention metrics—this segment is packed with tactics that keep customers around for the long haul. 💰 Revenue Per Customer: You’re already on site—are you maximizing each visit? We talk about how to expand your offering, price correctly, and add services without overwhelming your ops team. 📢 New Customer Acquisition (Finally): When it’s time to grow the top of the pyramid, we share proven ways to attract the right customers—from referrals and email campaigns to door hangers and paid ads. 🍻 Speed Round: Our favorite resources, biggest wins, and blunders to avoid when growing your revenue—like skipping straight to new customers while your existing ones slip away. (Don't do that.) This episode is for any contractor who wants to grow profitably and sustainably—not just faster. So grab a beer, tune in, and start stacking your growth the smart way.   The Beverages: Crown Float : Guinness & Strongbow Sierra Nevada : Hazy Little Thing IPA Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

The landscaping industry’s labor shortage isn’t getting any better, and let’s be honest—throwing a “Help Wanted” magnet on your truck isn’t going to cut it anymore. In this episode of The Beer Garden, we’re digging into strategies for hiring in a competitive market—because let’s face it, you can’t scale your business without the right people. Whether you’re a seasoned hiring pro or just desperate to fill a role yesterday, this episode has something for you. What’s Inside: 🌎 Understanding the Labor Market – No, it’s not just “kids these days don’t want to work.” We’ll break down what’s really going on in the job market and why landscapers are struggling to find employees. 🏆 The Role of Company Culture – Want to attract top talent? Your culture matters more than you think. We’ll share real-world examples of how a great company culture keeps employees happy (and on payroll). 📢 Recruitment Strategies That Actually Work – Posting a job ad and praying is not a strategy. We’ll cover creative recruiting tactics like hiring bonuses, social media outreach, recruiting from other industries, and even multilingual hiring. 📚 Addressing the Skills Gap – Hiring is one thing, but training is another. Learn how to develop employees from entry-level to leadership roles, while keeping your business running smoothly. 🛠️ Streamlining the Hiring Process – If you’re tired of sorting through unqualified applicants, we’ll discuss how an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) can save you time, speed up hiring, and keep your sanity intact. 🔮 The Future of Landscaping Employment – What’s coming next in hiring? We’ll talk about trends like automation, sustainability, and what the industry might look like in the next 5-10 years. Finding good help isn’t impossible—you just need the right approach. Tune in to The Beer Garden and get the hiring strategies you need to build an all-star team.   The Beverages: Gin & Tonic: Burwood Distillery Spiced Apple Gin Shelter Point Distillery Classic Single Malt Whisky   Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

Welcome back to The Beer Garden! After a well-earned holiday break (and maybe one too many seasonal beers), we’re kicking off 2025 with our Annual State of the Industry episode. We’re diving into Lawn & Landscape Magazine’s industry report to see what’s sprouting, what’s wilting, and what’s straight-up getting overrun by weeds this year. What’s Inside: 🍻 Industry Confidence – Are contractors feeling bullish about 2025, or are they stockpiling trimmer line and hoping for the best? 📈 Growth Opportunities & Risks – Where should you focus your energy this year? And what’s lurking in the bushes waiting to trip you up? 💰 Most Profitable Revenue Streams – What’s bringing in the most green? We’ll break down where the big money is in the industry. 🔮 Predictions for 2025 – Will robots finally mow lawns for us? Will a new fad sweep the industry? We take a look at what’s coming next. We’re here to give you the facts, the trends, and maybe even a few hot takes about what’s ahead in 2025. So grab a drink, settle in, and let’s talk shop!   Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Beer Garden, we’re breaking down the process of building an effective sales plan for your landscaping or snow removal business. Whether you’re aiming for steady growth or gearing up for your best year yet, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you plan, track, and achieve your sales goals with confidence. What’s Inside: Segment 1: Setting a Realistic End Target Understanding Capacity: Learn how to calculate capacity based on crew members, billable hours, and charge rates. Evaluating Resources: Assess equipment, overhead, and opportunities in your market to ensure your target is achievable. Seasonal Considerations: Explore how year-round contracts and seasonal work affect your capacity and goals. Segment 2: Building the Plan Start with Metrics: Use data from past performance, including lead conversion, sales ratios, and average job size, to guide your planning. Break Down Goals: Create monthly revenue targets, then calculate the number of leads, estimates, and jobs needed to hit those goals. Science Over Guesswork: Replace guesswork with a systematic, data-driven approach to sales planning. Segment 3: Understanding and Adjusting Your Plan Tracking Progress: Set up a system to track leads, estimates, booked jobs, and revenue to measure progress in real-time. Adjusting as Needed: Learn how to adapt your strategy if you’re off target, whether it’s increasing jobs or rebalancing capacity. Avoiding Pitfalls: Stay flexible and proactive to prevent overselling or underutilizing your crews and equipment. Last Call: Speed Round Best Resources: Recommendations for further reading and tools to enhance your sales planning. Top Advice: Insights from personal experiences, including the importance of tracking numbers and being prepared. Biggest Blunders: Lessons learned from common mistakes, like overly optimistic planning and lack of preparation. A well-constructed sales plan doesn’t just set you up for success—it reduces stress, eliminates guesswork, and positions your business for growth. Tune in to this episode of The Beer Garden to start building a plan that works for you.   The Beverages: Tool Shed Brewing - People Skills Breckenridge Brewery - Christmas Ale   Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this Sidecar episode of The Beer Garden, we explore how to implement a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) to streamline equipment maintenance and improve operational efficiency in your landscaping or snow removal business. What’s Inside: We’ll walk through a 5-step process to successfully implement a CMMS: Assign a Software Owner: Designate a single individual to oversee the implementation process and handle long-term software upkeep. Assign Unit Numbers: Develop a clear naming convention (e.g., TRK01 for trucks) and label your equipment. Add each piece to the database with its initial meter reading. Set Up Templates: Create preventive maintenance (PM) and inspection templates, linking them to the relevant equipment. These templates will help track and update meter readings automatically. Train Your Team: Host a staff training session to ensure everyone knows how to use the system effectively. Audit Regularly: Periodically audit the system by conducting full equipment inventories and checking for missed inspections or updates. Implementing a CMMS can feel daunting, but by breaking it down into actionable steps, you can build a system that saves time, reduces downtime, and keeps your business running smoothly.

In this episode of The Beer Garden, we’re diving into a topic that can transform how you run your landscaping or snow removal business: the importance of standardizing your equipment. From deciding when to buy, rent, or lease to choosing the right tools and streamlining operations, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you save time, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. What’s Inside: Segment 1: When to Buy Purchase vs. Rent: Key considerations like usage frequency, storage, and maintenance costs. New vs. Used: The pros and cons of each option, including depreciation, fleet programs, and resale value. Leasing Benefits: How leasing can provide flexibility and potential tax advantages. Segment 2: What to Buy Dealer Support and Maintenance: Why reliable dealer support matters and how to evaluate maintenance needs. Cost and Resale Value: Choosing equipment that maximizes cost-per-hour and holds value. Impact on Utilization: How equipment size and complexity affect crew productivity and training. Segment 3: The Power of Standardization Streamlining Training: Why using the same equipment across your team simplifies onboarding and skill development. Easier Repairs and Maintenance: How standardizing reduces downtime and ensures you always have the right parts on hand. Fleet Pricing and Efficiency: Saving money with bulk purchases and optimizing your trucks and trailers for standardized equipment. Standardizing your equipment isn’t just about convenience—it’s about running a more efficient, cost-effective, and scalable business. Tune in to this episode of The Beer Garden to learn how to make smarter decisions about your equipment and operations.   The Beverages: Fernie Brewing Co. - Project 9 Pils Ol' Beautiful Brewing Co. - Okami Kasu Shiner - Holiday Cheer Copper Kettle Brewing - Mocha Snowed In   Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this short Sidecar episode of The Beer Garden, we dive into a powerful strategic planning tool for owners and operators of landscape/snow businesses: the organizational chart. We’ll walk through how you can leverage an org chart not only to understand your current structure, but also to project and plan for future growth. What You’ll Learn: Build Your Current Org Chart: Begin by mapping out all the roles and responsibilities currently in place, giving you a clear snapshot of your business today. Set Your Revenue Target: Identify your next revenue goal and use that number to determine how many crews—and what supporting staff—you’ll need to achieve it. Scale Up Strategically: Understand how to break down the revenue potential of each crew, and then add the necessary roles (e.g., production manager, office manager) that support your target revenue. Define Roles & Responsibilities: Write high-level deliverables and accountabilities for every position in your future org chart, ensuring clarity and alignment before assigning names to roles. Assigning the Right People: Only after the structure and expectations are set should you place the right individuals in the right seats. Hybrid Roles & Real-World Examples: As you grow, learn how to use hybrid roles to maintain flexibility, hear tips on what to avoid, and explore examples that illustrate how effective org charts drive sustainable growth. Tune in for tangible, actionable steps that will help you create a clear blueprint for building the team you need to hit your next big revenue milestone.

In this episode of The Beer Garden, we’re diving into the art and science of scaling your landscaping business. Whether you’re aiming for your first $1M in revenue, breaking through the $3M mark, or pushing beyond, this episode offers practical insights and strategies to help you grow smartly and sustainably. What’s Inside: The Root of the Problem Why scaling requires you to evolve your mindset and approach. The challenges of the “middle ground” and why reaching the next tier is crucial for profitability. Understanding capacity and overhead dynamics at different revenue levels. Digging Deeper What scaling looks like at various stages: $500K to $1M: Building foundational systems and processes. $1M to $3M: Expanding your team, delegating more, and refining your niche. $3M+: Leveraging purchasing power, optimizing organizational layers, and focusing on strategic growth. Painting a vision for your team: Where you’ve been, where you are, and where you’re going. Roots of Success Key elements for sustainable scaling: Organizational structure and leadership development. Budgeting and cash flow planning. Identifying your ideal customer and crafting a targeted marketing plan. Investing in people and systems to support growth. Last Call: Speed Round Best resources and content to help you scale. Biggest wins and lessons learned from scaling efforts. Common pitfalls and how to avoid them. Scaling your business is about more than just hitting revenue milestones—it’s about building a company that’s sustainable, profitable, and a joy to lead. Tune in to this episode of The Beer Garden for actionable advice and inspiration to take your business to the next level.   The Beverages: Ol' Beautiful Brewing Co. - Okami Kasu Loveland Aleworks - Double Fudge Brownie Porter   Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Beer Garden, we explore the steps to successfully transition the estimating and sales role from the owner to others in the organization. This critical process can free up your time to focus on strategic growth and team leadership while empowering your team to take on more responsibility. Here’s what we cover: Why Owners Struggle to Let Go of Estimating and Sales Common concerns like control over pricing, service quality, and brand integrity. The mindset shift needed to view delegation as a growth opportunity rather than a risk. Step 1: Documenting and Systemizing Your Estimating Process Breaking down your process, from lead generation to finalizing quotes. Standardizing pricing models and using tools like LMN, Aspire, or Google Sheets. Building checklists and creating a comprehensive training manual. Implementing a feedback loop to ensure quality during the handoff. Step 2: Building a Consistent Sales Process with Supporting Collateral Outlining a clear sales process, including discovery, proposal creation, and follow-up. Developing reusable resources like brochures, templates, and sales scripts. Leveraging digital tools, such as email templates and automated follow-up systems. Step 3: Setting Goals and Expectations for Your Sales/Estimating Team Defining metrics like revenue, close ratio, and response time. Setting weekly, monthly, and quarterly goals. Creating incentive structures to motivate team members. Step 4: Training and Mentorship Providing hands-on training and ongoing support. Encouraging continuous improvement through professional development. Offering regular check-ins and feedback to ensure growth and confidence. Maintaining Accountability and Performance Using data-driven metrics to track success and address challenges. Empowering your team to take full ownership of the role. Reinforcing trust and confidence in their capabilities. Last Call: Actionable Takeaways Start small and trust the process of delegating estimating and sales. Focus on systemizing and supporting your team to create a scalable and efficient workflow. Shift your energy toward long-term strategic growth for your company. Delegating estimating and sales is one of the most challenging transitions for business owners—but it’s also one of the most rewarding. Tune in to this episode of The Beer Garden to learn how to make the shift successfully and set your team up for success.   The Beverages:  Straight and Narrow - Huckleberry Fir Vodka Cocktail Absolut Cocktails - Berry Vodkarita Half Hitch Brewing Co.  - Papa Bear Prairie Ale Souther Tier Brewing Co. - Chestnut Praline Imperial Ale   Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this Sidecar episode of The Beer Garden, we explore why contractors should shift their focus from lowering prices to increasing the value they provide to their customers. Competing on price alone can be a race to the bottom, but by focusing on value, you can win the right clients, build a strong reputation, and grow your business sustainably. Here’s what we cover: Key Topics: Understanding Your Ideal Client: Learn how to identify what your customers value most and listen to their pain points to craft tailored solutions. Customizing Your Service Offering: Discover ways to align your services with client needs and solve their specific problems. Improving Your Proposal Document: Create proposals that clearly communicate how your offering meets client needs and provides superior value. Productizing and Branding Your Offerings: Highlight your strengths by turning your services into unique, branded solutions that resonate with your target audience. Specializing for Success: Focus on what you do best to become the go-to expert in your field. Enhancing Customer Touchpoints: Improve every interaction with your customers to deliver an exceptional experience that sets you apart. If you’re ready to elevate your business by focusing on value rather than price, this episode is packed with actionable tips to get you started.   Book recommendations: Built to Sell by John Warrillow   The Beverages:  Steamworks Brewing Co. - Colorado Kolsch Maker's Mark Whisky   Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Beer Garden, we explore the critical role of a company vision in driving business success, particularly for landscapers and snow removal professionals. A clear and compelling vision isn’t just a lofty idea—it’s a practical tool that guides decision-making, inspires teams, and sets your business apart. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers actionable insights to help you define and communicate your company vision. Here’s what we cover: Segment 1: Why Vision Matters & What It Should Include What is a Vision? Understand the difference between a vague mission and a concrete, actionable vision. Why It Matters: Explore how a strong vision serves as a north star for your team and business. Personal Story: Learn how setting a clear vision for ACA Landscape has guided the company’s growth. How to Create One: Tips on brainstorming, involving your team, and crafting a vision that aligns with your long-term goals. Segment 2: Start With Why The Golden Circle Framework: Learn Simon Sinek’s concept of “Why, How, What” and how it applies to your business. Why: The core belief driving your business. How: The differentiators that set you apart. What: The services you provide. Practical Application: Tips for defining your company’s “Why” and leveraging it for decision-making, marketing, and team culture. Segment 3: Inspiring Your Team Around the Vision Communicating the Vision: How to make your vision relatable and relevant to every team member. Leading by Example: The importance of leadership embodying the company’s vision daily. Empowering Your Team: Give your team the autonomy and tools to contribute to the vision. Recognition and Incentives: Ideas for rewarding team members who align with and live out the vision. Last Call: Actionable Takeaways For Business Owners: Take the time to craft a compelling vision statement. Communicate it regularly and align it with your daily operations. Ensure your “Why” resonates with both your team and your customers. For Team Members: Understand how your role contributes to the company’s vision. Find ways to bring the vision to life in your work. Share ideas and feedback on improving the company’s vision. A strong vision can transform your business, inspire your team, and create lasting success. Tune in to this episode of The Beer Garden to learn how to craft and implement a vision that truly makes an impact.   The Beverages: Big Rock Brewery - The Tragically Hip Lake Fever Lager Bierstadt Lagerhaus - Slow Pour Pils Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this Sidecar episode of The Beer Garden, we explore creative ways to capitalize on the holiday season to boost your landscape or snow removal business. The holidays aren’t just for retail—they’re a golden opportunity for service-based businesses too. We’ll cover: Segment 1: Leverage Holiday Sales •Take advantage of Black Friday and holiday deals on electronics, tools, and software to gear up for the new year. •Understand how year-end purchases can help with tax write-offs—but avoid unnecessary spending. Segment 2: Create Your Own Holiday Promotions •Craft special service bundles or limited-time offers to drive sales through scarcity. •Ideas like holiday wreaths, referral incentives, and new client promotions can set your business apart. •Key dates to target: Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday. Segment 3: Make Your Services Giftable •Offer gift cards or prepaid service packages as thoughtful and practical holiday gifts. •Learn best practices for creating and managing gift cards, from tracking codes to messaging that appeals to gift givers. •Ensure your terms and conditions are clear, including service areas and redemption details. Action Steps for Holiday Promotions •Set up an online store with platforms like Shopify or Squarespace to simplify purchases. •Build holiday marketing campaigns through social media, email, and paid ads. •Plan for smooth fulfillment, ensuring a seamless experience for both buyers and recipients. The holidays are a unique chance to showcase your creativity and drive revenue. Tune in to this episode for actionable tips and inspiration to make the most of the season in your landscaping or snow removal business. The Beverages: Fernie Brewing Co. - Project 9 Pils Breckenridge Brewery - Vanilla Porter   Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Beer Garden, we tackle one of the most significant shifts in a professional's career: moving from an in-field employee to a management role. This transition requires more than a change in title—it demands a transformation in mindset, skills, and priorities. Whether you’ve just been promoted or are preparing for this leap, this episode offers practical advice and insights to help you succeed. Here’s what we cover: Segment 1: Understanding the Mindset Shift Moving from task-driven to vision-driven: Learn to focus on the “big picture” and lead with strategy. Embracing responsibility: Discover how to shift from personal accountability to owning your team’s success. Letting go of control: Explore techniques for empowering others to perform effectively and achieve goals. Segment 2: Building Management & Leadership Skills Communication and people skills: The foundation for motivating and managing a team. Conflict resolution: Tips for navigating disagreements and creating a positive work environment. Decision-making and problem-solving: Learn to make confident choices and address challenges proactively. Segment 3: What to Expect Financial literacy and KPIs: Understand the numbers that drive your business’s success. The “always on” mentality: Adjust to the demands of leadership and embrace a partnership mindset with ownership. Managing stress and discomfort: Growth can be challenging, but it’s also highly rewarding. Segment 4: Building Trust and Delegating Delegating with confidence: Learn to assign tasks and trust your team to deliver. Training and mentorship: Strategies for teaching company standards and empowering your team. Segment 5: Time Management and Self-Care Balancing field and office work: Tips for effective time management. Setting boundaries: Avoid burnout by creating a sustainable work-life balance. Personal development: Prioritize growth through courses, networking, and industry events. Segment 6: Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them Imposter syndrome: Recognize and overcome feelings of self-doubt. Maintaining relationships: Balance being a friend and a manager, especially when promoted from within. Facing resistance: Handle pushback from team members during your transition. This episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world insights to help you navigate the complexities of moving into management. Whether you’re already in a leadership role or preparing for the next step in your career, join us in The Beer Garden for this essential conversation. The Beverages: Jasper Brewing Co. - Crispy Tall Bois Brewery Ommegang - Everything Nice Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Beer Garden, we dive into the shift from residential to commercial and homeowners association (HOA) customers—a move that can elevate your business but requires a strategic approach. Whether you're thinking about expanding your client base or have already started the transition, this episode provides practical advice and insights to guide you through the process. We cover: Understanding the Transition: Explore the motivations behind making this shift and what you should know before taking the plunge into the commercial and HOA market. Standardizing Your Offering: Learn how to tailor your services to meet the specific needs of commercial and HOA clients, including the importance of consistency, reliability, and transparency. Building Relationships with Property Managers and Boards: Discover how to establish and nurture key relationships with property managers and HOA boards, which are critical to securing and maintaining commercial contracts. Implementing a Site Management System: Understand the role of a site management system in tracking, managing, and delivering on complex contracts, and how it can streamline your operations for commercial and HOA properties. Join us in The Beer Garden as we share actionable tips and strategies for successfully expanding into the commercial and HOA market, ensuring a smooth transition and positioning your business for growth.   The Beverages: Four Dogs Brewing CO - Friday's German (Pointer) Pilsner Bierstadt Lagerhaus - Oktoberfest Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this special episode of The Beer Garden, we’re joined by our very first guest, Benji Carlson—a powerhouse in the world of contracting. Benji built a successful College Pro Painters franchise, where he gained recognition for managing the network’s most productive team. He then went on to help over 1,500 contractors across North America as the Assessment Specialist & Content Lead at Breakthrough Academy. Currently, he’s the host of the Contractor Evolution Podcast, where he’s interviewed renowned high performers like Chris Voss, Luke Hansen, Tommy Mello, Mark Bradley, and Kory Ballard. In this conversation, Benji shares the 12 Habits of Highly Successful Entrepreneurs, offering insights you can apply to elevate your own business game. Here’s what we discuss: •Mastering time and priority management to maximize productivity. •Building a clear, detailed vision to guide every decision. •Committing to self-education and—most importantly—self-implementation. •Creating a strong employer brand and scalable hiring systems. •Exercising patience with growth and staying focused on long-term success. •Adopting tech wisely, avoiding the trap of shiny object syndrome. •Investing in brand to create a lasting impression. •Embracing mindset work and personal development. •Viewing themselves as entrepreneurs first, beyond their trade. •Developing laser focus on critical areas. •Staying actively involved as business drivers. •Building a robust implementation muscle or assembling a team to bring ideas to life. Join us as we explore these transformative habits and hear insights from Benji’s extensive experience in helping shape successful entrepreneurs. Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and let’s dive into what makes a great entrepreneur in The Beer Garden. Connect with Benji: Breakthrough Academy: https://www.btacademy.com/ Contractor Evolution: https://www.btacademy.com/contractor-evolution/ The Beverages: Corona Extra Pineapple Bubly Great Divide - Titan IPA Book Recommendations: Vivid Vision by Cameron Herold Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Beer Garden, we break down five powerful tactics that can help your landscaping or snow removal business capture the attention of potential customers and stand out from the competition. Whether you're looking to attract new clients or sharpen your sales approach, these strategies will give you the edge you need. Here's what we'll cover: Overhaul Your Proposal Package: Learn how to refresh your proposals to make a lasting impression, ensuring they stand out and reflect the quality of your services. Master Responsiveness: Discover why quick and effective communication is a game-changer for winning business and how to streamline your responsiveness. Lean Into Your Strengths: Explore how to focus on what your company does best and communicate that effectively to potential clients. Know Your Competitors & Sell On Your Differentiators: Understand your competition inside and out, and use this knowledge to highlight what makes your business unique. Build Your Brand: Dive into branding essentials and why creating a memorable, consistent brand can be the difference-maker for long-term success. Tune in for actionable insights that will help you boost your sales approach and position your business for growth. Grab a beer and join us in The Beer Garden for this valuable discussion! Get in touch: Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Beer Garden, we’re getting ready for the winter season by diving into the essential steps every landscaping and snow removal professional should be taking to ensure they’re fully prepped. As the cold months approach, it's critical to stay ahead of the game with a solid plan in place. We’ll cover: How to build and maintain a comprehensive seasonal prep checklist to keep operations running smoothly. The importance of pre-season site inspections and setup, so you're prepared for any winter weather challenge. Creating an efficient staffing plan to ensure you have the right people in the right places when winter hits. Aligning customer expectations to ensure clear communication and satisfaction all season long. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the industry, these insights will help you master the art of winter preparation. Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and join us in The Beer Garden for this essential winter readiness guide!   Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

In this episode, Jason shares his journey in the music industry during a time of massive disruption and draws parallels from that experience to the landscape industry. He shares how his experience in the music industry—touring, recording, and sharing the stage with bands like Imagine Dragons, Awolnation, and Motley Crue—has shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and influenced his approach to the landscaping and snow removal industry. Tune in as Jason and Brandon dive into the parallels between the two industries, discussing how the disruption of music by streaming services mirrors the technological changes facing landscaping today. From the importance of adapting to new market realities to the power of recurring revenue, this episode is packed with insights for landscapers looking to grow their businesses. Segment Breakdown: Introductions & Backstory The guys introduce their beers and discuss Jason's backstory in the music industry. Specifically, they cover the massive disruption that took place when streaming technology was introduced. Be Willing to Adapt Jason reflects on the shift from the "Big 6" record labels to the "Big 3" and how the music industry players who failed to adapt were left behind. This leads to a discussion on parallels in the landscaping industry, where new technologies like AI, robotics, and electric tools are disrupting traditional practices. Are we ready for these changes, or are we falling into the same trap? Key Takeaway: The landscape industry is on the brink of disruption—those who don’t adapt may be left behind. Technologies discussed: Digital mapping, electric tools, AI, and robotics. Know Your Customer & Focus on Their Needs Convenience is king. Jason shares an anecdote from his music career about how consumers don’t care about your business model—they want what’s easy. The conversation turns to how landscapers can apply this mindset, with tips on improving customer experience, from online schedulers to proactive bidding. Key Takeaway: Speed and convenience can win customers in landscaping, just like it did in the music industry. Strategies: Online scheduling, speed-to-lead, and using video presentations. Recurring Revenue Wins Jason explains how the music industry shifted from selling albums to a subscription-based model, creating a steady stream of recurring revenue. In landscaping, a business model based on recurring services can dramatically increase the value of a company. Key Takeaway: Recurring revenue gives peace of mind and increases business valuations. Discussion on why businesses with recurring revenue streams are valued higher. Increase Revenue Per Customer The shift from relying on album sales to monetizing tours, merchandise, and licensing provides lessons for landscaping businesses looking to cross-sell additional services. Jason and Brandon explore how cross-selling can increase revenue per customer and discuss how their companies—ACA and LBN—are applying this model. Key Takeaway: Diversifying revenue streams through cross-selling can lead to significant growth at a lower cost than acquiring new customers. Focus on building the bottom layers of the growth pyramid (retention and revenue per customer) before moving on to the top layer (customer acquisition).   Grab your favorite beverage, pull up a seat, and join us for this episode packed with stories and actionable business insights! Get in touch:  Facebook Group: The Beer Garden: Landscape Leaders Roudtable Facebook Page: IssueID Youtube: The Beer Garden Instagram: IssueID Website: IssueID.io Email: [email protected]

Pricing your services can make or break your landscape or snow removal business. In this episode of The Beer Garden, we dive deep into the strategies and challenges of setting the right price. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, this episode covers everything from knowing your numbers, to comparing cost based, competitor based, and value based pricing. Tune in for practical advice, real-world examples, and tips to help you become more profitable. Grab a beer and join us for a candid conversation on how to price your services the right way!

Often times when you're stuck in the day to day grind, it can be hard to remember why we do what we do, and even harder to envision the payoff ahead. In this debut episode of The Beer Garden, hosts Brandon Comstock & Jason Hoke share stories from their journey in the landscape and snow industry and set the tone for episodes to come. New episodes out every Friday.   Connect with us: Facebook Group: /thebeergardenlandscape Facebook Page: /issueid Instagram: /issue_id Email: [email protected]

The Beer Garden is the landscape industry podcast that lasts as long as it takes to enjoy your favorite beverage(s). Created by landscapers, for landscapers, we’re here to dig deep into the roots of our industry, sharing a brew and the best-kept secrets of the trade. Pull up a seat and join the conversation!