Hardscape Growth

In this week's episode of the Hardscape Growth Podcast, we have Charlie Kerrigan of V.I.L. Landscaping. He started when he was in grade 4! Charlie shares his journey on being a young entrepreneur and the challenges he came to face and how he was able to overcome these challenges through mentorship and literally saying "no". He talks about some important aspect in running a business such as knowing your numbers, building a brand, building off of that brand and always learning through mentorship or through his podcast The Hard Lessons. Here are some key takeaways: Focus on what you do best Build a dream team Always keep learning Did you miss this year’s Hardscaper Showcase? Stream it today on-demand wherever you are to learn all about pools, drainage, outdoor kitchens and design! Head over to [https://hardscaper.com/courses/2024-harsdcaper-showcase-on-demand-streaming/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

Rachel and Matt who are part of the team, at Springhetti Luxury Outdoor Spaces were recently honoured with the Peak Performance Award for their achievement in generating the most revenue per man hour. They credit their success to leveraging their strengths and streamlining their procedures. A key strategic move they made was to bring pool construction services in house resulting in a boost in revenue. Their focus has shifted towards undertaking larger scale projects particularly after pool installations often lead to landscaping opportunities. Matt Hoss talks on enhancing efficiency in landscaping businesses. The importance of data analysis for making informed decisions, on efficiency was underscored during this conversation. Matt also shared his enthusiasm for optimizing tool organization within trailers to maximize productivity. The conversation concluded with an exploration of evaluating workforce requirements and optimizing team sizes based on tasks. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

Steve Wheatcroft, founder and former CEO of ULS, shares his journey of building a successful landscape maintenance business. He discusses the six stages of leadership he experienced and the lessons he learned along the way. Overcoming self doubt and believing in yourself Wear a helmet, take a bullet Delegation builds the nation Blow sh*t up - John Wick part 1 Kiss = "Keep It Simple, Stup*d" Keep learning and learn to leave Listen to this week's pod to learn more about these stages of leadership. Try and figure out what stage you are in running your own business and see how you can move on to the next stage! The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

Click here to download the Get in the Game - 90 Day Quickstart E-Book! Ryan Markewich shares his experience with open book management and how it builds a team of owners. He explains how he got into the business and the turning point when he discovered The Great Game of Business. Ryan discusses the concept of the company as the product and the importance of transparency and involvement in decision-making. He also talks about the implementation of mini games and the impact of open book management on employee engagement and development. Takeaways Open book management builds a team of owners by involving employees in decision-making and sharing financial information. Setting a clear vision and involving employees in goal-setting is essential for the success of open book management. Metrics and key performance indicators are essential for measuring progress and driving accountability. Links https://rmark.ca/ The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

In this week's episode, we have Sahra Linnemann from The Green Executive discusses the concept of profit first and how it can help contractors in the green industry manage their cash flow and increase profitability. The profit first approach involves taking profit out of income first and then operating with what's remaining. Sahra explains the mechanics of profit first, including setting up different accounts for profit, owner's pay, taxes, and operations. Takeaways The profit first approach involves taking profit out of income first and then operating with what's remaining. Proper bookkeeping and tracking expenses are crucial for making informed business decisions. Regularly review profit and loss reports to assess the financial health of the business and make necessary adjustments. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

Rob Green, owner of StoneCraft Designs shares his journey of growing his hardscaping business from a shovel to $5 million in revenue in just 12 months.! He started the business with a simple website and a $200 Facebook ad, landing his first job without even owning a shovel. Rob tells us the importance of commitment to quality and customer education, which led to referrals and more opportunities. Even when facing challenges and losses, Rob's focus on the luxury market and leveraging his existing network helped him turn the business around. He also tells us why mentorship matters to him. In this conversation, Rob Green shares his journey in the hardscaping industry and the strategies he used to build a successful business. Rob shares insights on analyzing numbers, managing inventory, and building a strong brand. Takeaways Commitment to quality and customer education can set a business apart and lead to referrals and more opportunities. Challenges and losses are part of the journey, but they can be turned into positive learning experiences. Starting small and taking calculated risks can lead to significant growth in a short period of time. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

In this week's episode, we have Jonathan and Dan, co-founders of Creative by Nature. The conversation discusses various topics related to hardscape business growth and optimization. They emphasize the importance of clear communication, setting expectations, and involving clients in the design process. They also discuss the relevance of understanding access, setbacks, and drainage in projects. The conversation highlights the role of support managers in bridging the gap between design and construction. Additionally, they discuss the significance of collaboration, culture, and processes in building a successful team and brand in a saturated market. The conversation covers various topics related to building a successful landscaping business, including the importance of building a strong team and brand, the value of storytelling and branding, the significance of design and personal experience, overcoming challenges and building relationships, the power of pivoting and collaboration, asking for help and networking, and embracing abundance and opportunities. Takeaways Building a strong team and showcasing their work can set your landscaping business apart from the competition. Branding and storytelling are essential for creating a unique identity and connecting with customers. Collaboration, networking, and asking for help can lead to new opportunities and growth. This episode was a live recording at our Hardscaper Summit in King of Prussia, PA.

Justin Tal, owner of Creative Design and Maintenance, shares his journey from a maintenance company to a successful hardscaping business. He emphasizes the importance of communication with clients and implementing digital systems for project management. Justin discusses the significance of creating checklists and processes for efficient operations and scaling the business. He also highlights the role of financing in growing the business and the importance of a solid brand, website, and sales process. Justin concludes by emphasizing the value of targeting the right customers and analyzing marketing channels. Implement digital systems for communication and project management to improve efficiency and client satisfaction. Create checklists and processes to ensure consistency and streamline operations. Consider offering financing options to increase sales and attract more clients. Educate clients on the installation process and project costs to manage expectations and build trust. Target the right customers and analyze marketing channels to maximize the effectiveness of your advertising efforts.

In this episode, Alex and Lee discuss the impact of showcase events on business growth and the importance of bringing the team to these events. They also highlight the benefits of networking and the value of lighting in hardscape projects. Lee shares success stories and tips for selling lighting, emphasizing the importance of designs and visualizing the effects. They introduce Bold Lighting, a new brand that offers innovative lighting solutions with features like smart transformers and versatile zoning capabilities. Lee emphasizes Bold Pros' commitment to high-quality products and innovative solutions. He invites listeners to attend the Hardscape Show to see their new products firsthand. Showcase events provide valuable education, networking, and resources for contractors to grow their businesses. Networking with industry professionals and learning about new products and techniques is essential for business growth. Lighting is a crucial element in hardscape projects, creating ambiance, safety, and highlighting key features. Bold Lighting offers innovative lighting solutions with features like smart transformers and versatile zoning capabilities. Consider voltage drop when running multiple connections on a line. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

In this week's episode of the Hardscape Growth show, we have Mark Bradley, CEO of LMN Landscape Management Network, shares insights on building a successful contracting business in the green industry. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on revenue per man hour and explains how it can drive profitability. Bradley also discusses the challenges of diversification and the need for businesses to stay focused on their core expertise. He highlights the role of fear in hindering business growth and provides strategies for overcoming it. Additionally, he emphasizes the significance of marketing investment and the opportunities and challenges in the industry's current landscape. In this conversation, Mark Bradley discusses considerations for exiting a business and the various options available. He highlights the importance of understanding the factors that affect valuation, such as the type of work and revenue volume. Key Takeaways Focus on revenue per man hour to drive profitability in the contracting business. Overcome fear by developing a clear financial plan and understanding your business's financials. Invest in marketing to attract the right customers and employees and continuously improve your business. When nearing the end of your career and considering an exit strategy, be aware of the different options available beyond industry consolidation and private equity. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

In this conversation, Cody Cook from Pro Green Outdoors shares his experiences and insights in the hardscaping industry. He discusses the importance of attending trade shows and how it has helped his business grow. Cody also reflects on the success of 2023 and the role of marketing in attracting clients. He emphasizes the need for effective communication within the team and with clients. Cody shares his vision for the future, including building pools in-house and creating a showroom. He also highlights the significance of managing client expectations and lead time. In this conversation, Cody Cook from Pro Green shares insights on effective communication with clients, managing client expectations, guiding clients through the construction process, and the importance of consistency and persistence in business. Takeaways Attending trade shows can be a valuable marketing strategy for hardscaping businesses, allowing them to showcase their work and attract potential clients. Effective communication is crucial in running a successful business, both within the team and with clients. Planning and setting goals are essential for long-term business growth and success. Managing client expectations and providing clear timelines can help build trust and satisfaction. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

Lawson shares his journey of starting and growing his hardscaping business, Greystone Hardscapes. He discusses the challenges of being a white collar guy in a blue collar industry and the importance of financial literacy and software implementation. Lawson also talks about the growth of his business and the adjustments he made to improve efficiency and profitability. Lawson shares his journey of transitioning to a three-man crew and managing overhead costs. He discusses the importance of making tough decisions and shifting his focus to sales. Lawson emphasizes the significance of mentors and building a network of advisors. He highlights the value of surrounding oneself with the right people and setting lofty goals. Lawson also emphasizes the importance of transparency and team collaboration, as well as rewarding performance and driving the ship. Key Takeaways Starting a business in a new industry requires learning and adapting to new skills and knowledge. Building a strong team and delegating tasks is crucial for business growth and efficiency. Financial literacy and proper software implementation are essential for managing and growing a business. Making adjustments and setting goals based on past experiences and data can lead to improved profitability and success. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

In this week's episode on the Hardscape Growth, Seth Wharton, owner of Get Mowtivated shares insights into his landscaping business and the importance of maintenance services. He discusses the evolution of his company and the value of maintaining relationships with existing customers. Seth also talks about gathering information from customers, managing budgets, and navigating the permitting process. He shares the story of how he got the showcase project and highlights the importance of communication and building relationships with clients. Seth also discusses the challenges of scheduling and involving the team in estimating man hours. In this conversation, Seth Wharton discusses various strategies for improving efficiency and accuracy in job costing, including the use of templates and software. Seth shares his experience with analyzing profitability and making adjustments based on job costing data. He emphasizes the importance of tracking man hours and material costs to ensure accurate project estimates. Seth also highlights the significance of product knowledge and material selection in creating custom and long-lasting outdoor spaces. He discusses the benefits of working with industry experts and vendors to learn new construction methods and utilize innovative tools. Finally, Seth emphasizes the importance of taking care of clients and employees to build strong relationships and foster success in the industry. We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

In this episode, we're with 5 guests from an exclusive panel discussion featuring industry leaders. The event, held at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach, brought together top-tier tech pros from Canada and the United States. They discussed various aspects of running a successful landscaping business, covering challenges, workplace culture, productivity, and effective marketing and sales strategies. Charles Ciccarello, founder of Techo-Bloc, Paver Pete, director of Education, Mark Bradley, founder of LMN, Brad Stepehnson, CEO of New Castle Lawn and Landscape and Seth Wharton, owner of Get Mowtivated. Key takeaways: Prioritize Your People Processes Drive Success Transparency Wins Budget for Success Measure What Matters Communicate Progress Simply Project Your Brand Whether you're a business owner, leader, or aspiring entrepreneur in the landscaping industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate challenges and drive growth. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

In this week's episode, we have once again our returning guest Weston from SynkedUp! We just love having him on. Why? He genuinely loves helping the contractor community win! This week, he shares with us what he had shared at some of the trade-shows he's been. 4 Ways to Close more Proposals! He explains why dialling in your sales process, why that is so crucial for your business and simple steps to gain your customers trust when selling. Once again, he shares the link to meet with Wetston 1 on 1 to help you build out your budget. Click here to book your time with Wes today. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

This week on the Hardscape Growth show, join Alex as he reflects on insights from industry experts and contractors, unveiling key strategies for hardscape businesses aiming to thrive in the upcoming year. From tapping into the high-end market and maximizing revenue per client to exploring new offerings like outdoor audio and landscape lighting, this episode provides actionable tips to elevate your business. Discover how to navigate industry changes, capitalize on upcoming trends, and position your company for success in the ever-evolving hardscape market. Here's some episodes that was mentioned: Todd Tomalak's Vision for the Golden Age of Remodeling (Spotify / Apple Podcasts) Tapping into the high-end market (Spotify / Apple Podcasts) Also not to forget, we have launched our registration page for our Hardscaper Showcase events for 2024! (Click here) The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

Welcome to another episode of the Hardscape Growth Podcast. This week we have Stephen Lisk of Lisk Landscape and Innovations. He's a landscape engineering/design/consultant and a master on the storm water management. In this episode, we go deep into the discussion about storm water management and how he was able to make it a service that not only helps his business but also his clients on having a lasting outdoor living space. He talks about why testing soils is a crucial part in knowing how to effectively manage storm water and his unique way of educating his clients through the use of social media. He also shares his client vetting process and ways you can diversify your services to win in today's economy. Here's a quote from the episode that can resonate with you all listening: Provide value and specialize in something The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

Click here to book your free consultation with Wes! In this episode of the Hardscape Growth, we have our returning guest Weston from SynkedUp on the topic of salaries for owners! As we approach the end of 2023, many hardscape construction business owners are pondering the age-old question: Can I afford to give myself a raise next year? Well, today, we're about to pull back the curtain on this critical industry benchmark! He's gathered data from hundreds of landscape construction companies across the USA and Canada. Our mission? To uncover just how much the average business owner pays themselves. We tackle the two common pitfalls that owners often stumble into, exploring how they frequently miscalculate their estimates and fail to grasp their production capacity. Then, at the 4-minute mark, we break down the data into three distinct bands based on annual revenue. As we journey through these salary bands, we'll discuss strategies for business success, growth, and the importance of documentation in solidifying your position in the industry. Tune in to "The Hardscape Growth Podcast" and get ready to gain invaluable insights into the world of hardscape construction business ownership. Your raise in 2024 might just depend on it! The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

In this week's episode, Alex shares his insights from the book: The Amazon Management System written by by Ram Charan and Julia Yang. What has propelled their record streak of growth? Their management system, and it can do the same for you no matter what business you are in or what level. The book is broken down into 6 learning blocks: Customer-Obsessed Business Model Continuous Bar-Raising Talent Pool AI-Powered Data & Metrics System Ground-Breaking Invention Machine High-Velocity & High-Quality Decision-Making A forever Day 1 culture Alex also shares what their 14 leadership principles are: Customer obsession Ownership Invent and simplify Are Right, a Lot Learn and be curious Hire and Develop the Best Insist on the Highest Standards Think Big Bias for Action Frugality Earn Trust Dive Deep Have Backbone; Disagree and Commit Deliver Results So there you have it. Have a listen and see how these building blocks and leadership principles can be applied in your own business. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

In this episode, we have Trevor Chase, a product application specialist from Caterpillar, who shares his unique perspective on the hardscape industry. Trevor's journey from operator to the sales team and now a product specialist has provided him with invaluable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of hardscape construction. Join us as Trevor discusses the changing face of the industry, addressing skilled labor shortages and providing strategies for maximizing the potential of the equipment we own. His experience and expertise shed light on how hardscape businesses can adapt and thrive in these dynamic times. But that's not all – we also delve into Caterpillar's latest innovations, the CTL 255 and 265. Trevor details how these cutting-edge machines offer unmatched power, performance, and comfort, transforming the way hardscape professionals approach their work. Discover the significance of the torque curve and learn about Caterpillar's pioneering approach to equipment tuning. Trevor shares how the CTL 255 and 265 are versatile, with a wide array of attachments available to suit various hardscape needs. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [⁠https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/⁠] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our ⁠Facebook⁠ or ⁠Instagram⁠ page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at ⁠podcast@hardscaper.com⁠ or send us a DM on Instagram ⁠@hardscaper_