Voice for the Industry Podcast

Chris Anderson, VP of Sales and Co-founder of Applause, shares his expertise on scaling sales teams and driving growth in the home services industry. Drawing on his data-driven approach, Chris breaks down the newly released 2026 Benchmark Report and what the findings mean specifically for pest control operators. From why technicians are the real marketing team to how customer satisfaction motivates beyond money, he reveals the strategies and incentives that actually work in home services. Chris also explores the evolving standards of reputation management—explaining why a 4.5-star rating is no longer good enough—and shares real-world examples of businesses applying these insights to maximize engagement, retention, and long-term success. Whether you’re a pest control operator, team leader, or industry professional, this episode provides actionable, research-backed insights to elevate every aspect of your business.

Unlock the blueprint for scalable, sustainable growth in the pest control industry with Bhavini Kamdar, founder and CEO of Infinity Business Services. In this episode, Bhavini breaks down how rock-solid processes, clean data, and strategically deployed remote teams turn chaotic growth into smooth, profitable operations—without burning out your in-house staff. She shares real-world examples of what top-performing companies do differently, from proactive AR and automated collections to clear role ownership, software optimization, and smart use of AI that enhances (not replaces) people. Whether you’re an owner, manager, or scaling leader, you’ll walk away with practical frameworks to align your people, processes, and technology so your business runs efficiently, cash flow stays healthy, and growth feels intentional—not reactive.

Most pest control professionals underestimate how quickly AI is transforming industry training—and ignoring it could mean falling behind. In this episode, Foster Bruska, industry veteran, full-time content creator, and founder of Pest Posse, breaks down how AI is moving beyond buzzwords to become a real competitive advantage in pest management. Drawing from his multimillion-dollar sales career and hands-on training experience, Foster shares practical ways AI is reshaping technician development, customer communication, and operational growth—from continuous education and AI-powered scripting to automated training tracking and smarter strategies. While highlighting how platforms like Voice for Pest are already integrating AI, he reinforces a crucial truth: technology works best when paired with strong mentorship and human connection. This conversation is a must-listen for owners, managers, and technicians looking to future-proof their careers and lead the next wave of industry innovation.

In this episode of the Voice for the Industry Podcast, Brian Quispe, co-founder of OcuTrap, discusses the innovative technology behind their smart trapping systems. The conversation covers the journey from concept to creation, the challenges faced, and the solutions provided by Aki Trap to make pest control more humane and efficient. Brian shares insights into the company's future developments, including AI integration and software enhancements, aiming to revolutionize the pest control industry.

In this episode, the founder of Pest AI, a platform revolutionizing the pest control industry through advanced CRM solutions and AI integration. They discuss Anthony's journey from pest control consultant to tech entrepreneur, the evolution of CRM usage in pest control, and the importance of AI in enhancing customer service and operational efficiency. The conversation also touches on consumer expectations, the future of AI in the industry, and how technology is leveling the playing field for smaller companies.

In this episode of the Voice for the Industry podcast, Raymond Kidwell interviews Margaret Garcia, founder of Grit PPO, the first female-owned outsourced contact center for the pest control industry. They discuss Margaret's journey in the pest control industry, the challenges faced by companies, and how Grit PPO provides solutions through outsourcing and AI. The conversation also touches on the importance of adaptability in business, especially for women in male-dominated industries, and the future of AI in customer service.

In this episode, David Petti, founder of Turf Pride Lawn Care, shares his journey from a solo operator to leading a successful family-owned business. He discusses the importance of exceptional customer service, core values, and the challenges of hiring and training employees. David emphasizes the significance of maintaining a personal touch in customer interactions, especially in an industry where customer satisfaction is paramount. He also reflects on the changes in the lawn care industry over the years and the role of technology, including AI, in enhancing business operations while preserving the human element.

In this episode of The Voice for the Industry Podcast, host Raymond Kidwell sits down with Gerwin Marca, a service manager whose unconventional career path brings a fresh perspective to the pest control industry. Gerwin shares his journey from nursing to the Marine Corps—and several stops in between—before finding his place in pest control, highlighting how each experience shaped his leadership style.The conversation dives into the importance of continuous learning, developing future leaders, and attracting the next generation of talent to the industry. Gerwin also shares his thoughts on how emerging technologies like AI and drones are influencing the future of pest control and what that means for today’s professionals. He reflects on his experience at the MPMA Academy, offers practical insights for those preparing for management roles, and wraps things up with a few fun, lighthearted questions that reveal the person behind the professional.

In this episode, Aleena Valentine and Kayla Carroll share their extensive experiences in the pest control industry. Aleena discusses her journey from a CSR to a customer service manager, while Kayla talks about her transition from customer service to launching a customer success division. They explore the impact of AI on customer service and the benefits of using a dialer system, all while sharing personal stories that bring humor and authenticity to the conversation.

In this episode, host Raymond Kidwell sits down with Dominique Sauvage, a seasoned expert in pest control and food safety. With over 42 years of global experience, Dominique shares his journey from South Africa to the U.S., highlighting his passion for protecting people, brands, and supply chains. Discover insights into the intersection of pest control and food safety, the role of AI in the industry, and Dominique's commitment to training the next generation of professionals. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, humor, and a deep love for the industry.

Join Karissa Wilson as she steps into the host's seat for a special episode of the Voice for the Industry Podcast, featuring Susan Hare, a seasoned Program Director at Thrasher Termite and Pest Control. Dive into Susan's journey from a high-tech background to becoming a passionate advocate for pest management. Discover her insights on educational marketing, the importance of communication, and how to attract more women into the industry. Plus, enjoy some fun as Susan shares her love for termites and her dream superpower. 

In this episode, we speak with our special guests, Grant and Kemp, who dive into the intricacies of the pest control industry's business side. Exploring the importance of company culture, employee retention, and strategic growth. They discuss the value of maintaining clean financial records and the impact of regular price increases on business valuation. With insights into private equity and the significance of recurring revenue, this episode is a must-listen for all business owners. Tune in for great advice and expert perspectives on navigating the complexities.

In this episode, we delve into the art of building a robust referral network within the pest control industry. Discover strategies to connect with local businesses, leverage customer relationships, and create partnerships that drive growth. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, learn how to expand your reach and enhance your business through effective networking. Tune in to unlock the secrets of successful referrals and take your pest control business to the next level. 

In this episode of the Voice for the Industry Podcast, Leah Hazelwood explores the evolving role of women in the pest control industry and the unique opportunities it presents.Join us for an insightful conversation on balancing family life with business responsibilities and the values that drive success.

In this episode of the Voice for the Industry Podcast, host Raymond Kidwell sits down with Kevin Lemasters, a seasoned expert in pest management. Kevin shares his journey from a pest control technician to a leader in the industry, discussing the importance of leadership, company culture, and the power of community connections. Tune in to hear about Kevin's experiences, insights on developing future leaders, and his passion for giving back to the industry that has shaped his career. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with wisdom and practical advice for anyone in the pest management field.

In this episode, we explore how small businesses can leverage multi-channel communication to enhance customer engagement and drive growth. Discover the advantages of reaching your audience through various platforms, from social media to email marketing, and learn practical tips for implementing a cohesive strategy. Tune in to uncover how multi-channel communication can transform your business operations and customer relationships.

In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of AI in the business world. Discover how AI technologies are reshaping accountability practices and driving customer retention strategies. From predictive analytics to personalized customer experiences, learn how businesses are leveraging AI to build trust and foster long-term relationships with their clients. Tune in to explore real-world examples and insights from industry leaders on the future of AI-driven accountability and retention. 

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating transformation of pest control call centers. Discover how technology and customer expectations have reshaped the industry, turning traditional call centers into dynamic customer service hubs. Join us as we explore the challenges and innovations that have driven this evolution, and hear from industry experts about the future of pest control customer service. Tune in to learn how these changes impact both businesses and customers alike.

In this episode, we explore the powerful connection between technology and human adaptability—and how together, they fuel lasting business success. Our guest, Evan, takes us on his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to extraordinary achievements, sharing pivotal moments of resilience, innovation, and growth. Along the way, we uncover strategies that empower businesses to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape, from embracing change to leveraging technology as a catalyst for transformation. Tune in for an inspiring story of challenges, triumphs, and valuable lessons that can help you unlock new opportunities and propel your own business forward.

Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Voice for Pest, a leader in integrating AI and technology within the home services sector. This episode reveals how Thomas Welsh developed ATS to evolve, leveraging cutting-edge innovations to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction. Discover the strategies and technologies that have propelled Affiliated to the forefront of the industry, and learn how they continue to shape the future of home services. Don't miss this insightful look into the evolution of a tech-driven pioneer.

Join us on the Voice for the Industry Podcast as we delve into the inspiring career journey of David Billingsly, founder of the Billingsly Group. With over 33 years of experience in the service industry, including 19 years in pest control, David shares his transition from retail management to becoming a leader in coaching and consulting. Discover how his firm, established in 2022, empowers service-based businesses by focusing on strategic decision-making and leadership challenges. Tune in to learn from David's unique insights and his passion for developing mid-level management training programs that address industry bottlenecks. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with valuable lessons and a touch of humor.

In this episode of the Voice for the Industry Podcast, host Raymond Kidwell sits down with Audrey Hall and Ashley Morrison for a dynamic conversation about the power of friendship, the impact of industry association involvement, and the experiences that have shaped their journeys, both personally and professionally. 

In this episode of the Voice for the Industry Podcast, we sit down with Andrea Dahlgren, Senior Vice President of Business Development at ARM Solutions. Andrea shares her journey from the mortgage sector to becoming a pivotal force in ARM's innovative approach to debt collection. Join us as we explore how ARM Solutions is redefining the debt collection landscape for pest control, lawn care, and other service industries.

In this episode of Voice for the Industry Podcast, we sit down with Breanna Neerland for a candid and inspiring conversation about what it means to honor a family legacy while embracing the future. Breanna shares her experience navigating the complexities of ownership transitions in a family-run business, offering practical advice on balancing long-standing traditions with forward-thinking innovation. We explore the importance of industry involvement, giving back to the community, and staying grounded in values while adapting to change. Breanna also weighs in on the evolving role of AI in pest control and how it could shape the industry moving forward. Plus, she opens up about maintaining work-life balance in a fast-paced world. It’s honest, insightful, and packed with value for anyone leading a family business or driving change in their organization. 

In Part 2 of our candid conversation with Taylor Olson, we explore what it takes to build a lasting company culture, empower teams, and keep innovation at the forefront—even after major success. Taylor opens up about the transitions, the risks, and the real stories behind Applause's mission to elevate customer and employee experiences in the pest control and lawn care industry.From leadership philosophy to industry insights, this episode delivers the kind of authentic perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.

In Part 1 of this two-part episode, we sit down with Taylor Olson, a true pioneer in the pest control and lawn care space. From his early days at Slingshot to his current leadership role at Applause, Taylor shares the inside story of building, scaling, and evolving industry-shaping solutions.If you’re looking for real talk, hard-earned wisdom, and a glimpse behind the curtain of some of the industry’s most impactful innovations, this episode is for you. 

In this episode of the Voice for... the Industry podcast, we’re diving into the real-life challenges and opportunities of generational transitions in family-run pest control businesses, along with the ins and outs of navigating acquisitions. We’re also discussing the power of relationships and networking in the industry, as well as how AI is shaping business today and into the future.Whether you’re in pest control, lawn care, or both, this episode delivers practical insights, forward-thinking strategies, and just the right dose of fun.