The Oklahoma Tree Guys Podcast

Episode 9 of the Oklahoma Tree Guys podcast features Brady Paselk from Tulsa, who shares his journey from DIY lift mishaps to founding BP Trees and helping run the Oklahoma Rescue event. He discusses climbing, aerial rescue scenarios, the ISA Certified Tree Climber (CTC) credential, and how pressure training prepares crews for real emergencies. Brady also explains running a small tree business with intentional systems—Monday estimate days, Jobber and Gusto automation, and outsourcing—plus a call to join Oklahoma Rescue on April 17–18 in Coweta for hands-on training and free Friday sessions.

In this episode Shain hosts two military veterans—Remus a Ranger Qualified Airborne Jumpmaster, and Duke a US Army Drill Sergeant—to explore how military leadership, training and accountability can be applied to tree crews and small arborist businesses. They discuss practical topics like morale and retention, setting standards, counseling and talent management, plus on-the-ground parallels between high-performance military teams and residential tree operations. Disclaimer: This podcast is not in any affiliation of any U.S Government entity. Remus and Duke appear in this episode in their personal capacities as private citizens and veterans. The views and opinions expressed are their own and do not represent the official policy or position of the U.S. Army, the Department of Defense, Department of War, or any U.S. government agency. This content is for general discussion and is not official guidance.

Episode 7 of the Oklahoma Tree Guys features Mark Cafiero of Timber Tree discussing marketing for arborists and how AI can help trades businesses. They compare corporate, systems-based marketing with small-business guerrilla tactics, explain how to level out seasonal sales dips, and share practical lead-gen workflows using Google Ads, web forms, and AI-driven ballpark estimates. Takeaways include focusing your value proposition and website to speak to homeowners, creating a standout service offering, using AI as a consultant and qualifier (watch for hallucinations and learn prompt engineering), and prioritizing business refinement and efficiency over raw growth. A hands-on AI workshop (Nov 29) is also mentioned for deeper training.

In this engaging episode of the Oklahoma Tree Guys podcast, we welcome Conner Mercer, also known as the golden child of Oklahoma City Metro Tree Guys as he is commonly called. Conner shares his captivating life journey from his career in the Marine Corps to stumbling into the world of arboriculture. Discover how he transitioned from climbing cell phone towers to establishing his own tree service business and creating a name in the region.  The episode delves into Conner's insights on small business success, the dynamics of contract climbing, and the necessities for subcontract administrative steps, including essential paperwork filings and best practices. Mercer sheds light on the network of support among tree services and the importance of professionalism in the industry. Listeners also gain an inside look into the Oklahoma City Arbor Rescue event, exploring the significance of community events and safety in the arborist field. Conner's story is not just about business growth, but also about fostering a thriving community of professional arborists in Oklahoma.

Welcome to the Oklahoma Tree Guys podcast, where your host Shain along with guest Ben Martin, discusses the intricacies of billing insurance for tree work. Ben, a seasoned expert with over a decade of experience in the tree service industry, shares valuable insights into correctly billing insurance directly to carriers rather than customers. Along the way, he details his journey from overcoming personal challenges to building the successful R&B Trees business. In this episode, Ben highlights the importance of being prepared with the correct experience and structured processes for efficient insurance interaction. He stresses consistency in pricing and billing, regardless of whether the work is being billed directly to the customer or through insurance, to maintain professionalism and trust. The conversation delves into the significant impact that accurate insurance billing can have on maximizing profits for tree companies, emphasizing the need for preparedness before storm events, consistent communication during projects, and thorough documentation. For anyone in the tree service industry looking to navigate the complexities of insurance billing, this episode offers practical advice and resources, including education and networking opportunities, to enhance your business's growth and revenue potential. Helpful Links: emergencytreeresponders.com Clarity Market by Mark Russell – tech-heavy, full of tools, contracts, comparables, FAQs. claritymarket.com GIB – Global Insurance Billing – outsource your billing, helpful in unfamiliar states. globalinsurancebilling.com Bruce Thibodeau’s PRY Logistics – individual consulting and support.

Join us for Episode 4 of the Oklahoma Tree Guys podcast as we welcome Chris Martin, Supervisor of Vegetation Management at OG&E. In this enlightening episode, Chris shares his journey into arboriculture, highlighting his experiences from the University of Georgia to various roles across the United States. Discover the intricacies of utility arboriculture, power line safety, and the crucial practices that ensure safety and efficiency in this field. Chris delves into his current role, discussing the importance of community engagement and education in vegetation management. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, including six in the utility sector, he offers valuable insights into the delicate balance between tree work and maintaining electrical safety. Whether you're a small business start-up in arboriculture or a seasoned expert, this episode offers practical advice on navigating the challenges of electrical safety, staying informed, and networking within the industry.

Welcome to Episode Three of the Oklahoma Tree Guys podcast, where we dive into the world of small business economics with Shaun Sykes, the general manager of Arbor Image Tree Care. In this episode, we explore the journey from a small-town upbringing to leading operations at a successful tree care company. Shaun shares insights into the importance of marketing, sales, and specialization in tree care services, challenging the notion that diversification is always the key to growth. We also discuss the impact of proper pricing strategies, the significance of customer relationships, and innovative methods to stay profitable during the off-season. Join us for a fun and enlightening conversation on mastering small business economics in the tree care industry.

Welcome to episode two of the Oklahoma Tree Guys podcast! Join host Shain from Abatis Ventures Consulting as he sits down with special guest Cori Watson, a Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA). In this engaging episode, Shain and Cori explore the education pathways in arboriculture, sharing valuable insights on certification processes, tree care techniques, and the essential role of continuous learning in the field. Cori, a passionate educator and practitioner, introduces the concept of hosting Oklahoma's first open certified arborist exam prep course. He delves into the importance of ISA certification and the vital role it plays in professionalizing the trade. Listeners will gain an understanding of the ISA's standards and how they can elevate a tree care professional's practice and credibility. The discussion also touches on hands-on learning experiences, such as tree planting, preservation, and lightning protection systems. Cori emphasizes how these practical skills add immense value to an arborist's toolkit, enabling them to deliver top-notch service to clients. Discover how Cori leverages his BCMA credential to open doors to unique consulting opportunities and why he believes in the power of knowledge and continuing education to enhance industry standards. Whether you're a budding arborist or a seasoned pro, this episode offers valuable advice and inspiration for anyone interested in growing their expertise in arboriculture.

Welcome to Episode One of the Oklahoma Tree Guys podcast, where host Shain delves into the world of arboriculture safety with special guest Jonathan Sullivan. Jonathan shares his inspiring journey from overcoming addiction to becoming a leader in the tree work industry. He opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his career, particularly a tragic incident that fueled his passion for safety and training in arboriculture. The episode explores the importance of in-house training, networking, and a holistic approach to enhancing industry standards, emphasizing how these practices contribute to both personal and professional growth. Jonathan discusses the value of certifications, ongoing education, and the role of cultural fit in building effective teams. Tune in to discover how transformative experiences can lead to a safer and more knowledgeable tree care industry, inspiring both seasoned arborists and newcomers to prioritize safety and excellence in their work.