Pest in Class: Expert Voices in Pest Management

When you’re building a business and a family at the same time, every system you put in place matters. Noelle and Rian Goins, owners of Get Goins Pest Control in Los Angeles, return to Pest in Class with their newest team member: baby Grace. In this heartfelt conversation, the Goins share how they “baby-proofed” their business: from paying down debt and moving into their first home, to charging for inspections and adjusting their pricing to keep pace with inflation. They talk candidly about the challenges of postpartum, the surprises of slower summers, and how they redefined success around being present as a family.Join us as we discuss: [10:39] Why Get Goins started charging for inspections[15:17] The most important system: revisiting pricing with confidence[25:57] Advice for entrepreneurs expecting their first childCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:PestWorldYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Your trucks might run on gas, but your business runs on people, and payroll mistakes can grind everything to a halt. This episode, we’re joined by Inova leaders Mary Leveridge, Executive VP, and Kathey Palmer, Chief Growth Officer. They unpack the seven most common payroll and HR traps that field service companies face. From worker misclassification and time-tracking pitfalls to prevailing wage compliance and the risks of manual payroll entry, they show how to avoid costly mistakes and build a business that is stronger, more resilient, and more profitable.Join us as we discuss: [8:04] Employee vs. contractor: misclassification explained[23:06] Why onboarding defines employee retention[31:49] Manual data entry: small errors, big consequencesCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ServiceTitanYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

FieldRoutes’ Senior Product Marketing Manager Anders Fredericksen returns to Pest in Class to unpack the 2025 Pest Industry Report. Anders discusses the key findings from the survey of over a thousand US pest control companies, revealing cautious optimism balanced with growing concerns over recession and rising material costs. He highlights opportunities to counter margin pressures through technology adoption, despite existing gaps in areas like scheduling and routing software. Discover impactful areas for automation, learn why a digital-first approach is crucial, and explore the current state and future impact of AI in the pest control industry.Join us as we discuss: [3:39] The 4 major takeaways from the 2025 Pest Industry Report[10:49] Gaps in technology adoption, including scheduling and routing tools[15:52] The AI outlook and comparing this year’s insights to the 2024 reportCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:2025 Pest Industry ReportYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Training a bed bug detection dog isn’t just about teaching it to sniff out pests. It’s a massive commitment of time, money, and mindset. In this episode, we sit down with Diego Rodriguez, Tech Specialist and K-9 Team Supervisor at Preventive Pest Control in Las Vegas, to explore what it really takes to build and maintain a top-tier canine detection team. From the biology of bed bugs to the psychology of a good handler, Diego pulls back the curtain on the reality of this niche pest control approach. He shares what makes a great canine-handler duo, how to know if a detection dog fits your business model, and why training the human is just as important as training the dog.Join us as we discuss: [6:37] How to determine if a detection dog is right for your company [13:30] What to look for in a pest detection dog and a handler[20:24] The biggest challenges and rewards of working with detection dogsYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, we talk with Kevin McKee, President and CEO ofRoss Pest & Lawn in Aledo, Texas, about how empathy, transparency, and strong communication have fueled both employee satisfaction and impressive business growth. Kevin shares how simple habits like answering the phone and showing up on time drive customer trust, but more importantly, how investing in employees as people builds long-term loyalty. From open-book financials and profit-sharing to teaching strategic thinking and soft skills, Kevin explains how he’s intentionally built a culture where employees feel true ownership in the business.Join us as we discuss: [5:16] The simple habits behind Ross Pest & Lawn’s 30+% growth[14:44] Why sharing P&L with the entire team builds trust[20:51] How to talk to your team about soft skills without micromanagingYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Ignite 2025 isn’t your average FieldRoutes’ user conference, and that’s exactly the point. In this episode, Ray Honey, Director of Customer Success at FieldRoutes, gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what attendees can expect in Anaheim this September. From hands-on product training to community panels, peer-led sessions, and networking events like the “Birds of a Feather” luncheon, Ignite is designed to help pest and lawn pros grow their businesses in real, actionable ways. Ray also shares what’s new this year, including updates on Pro products and more.If you’re heading to Ignite or still deciding, this episode will help you make the most of it.Join us as we discuss: [5:27] What sets Ignite 2025 apart from other tech conferences[9:03] Special events like the Community Garden and Birds of a Feather luncheon[17:04] How first-time Ignite visitors can make the most out of their experienceCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Register for Ignite 2025 in Anaheim, CA (September 15 - 17th, 2025)You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Route optimization isn’t just about saving miles. It’s about empowering technicians and improving operational cohesion. Markus Konietzka, Director of Integrations at AXN Growth Partners, joins the show to share how his experience in logistics and as a technician shaped his people-first approach to route management. From reducing gas consumption by 20% to slashing technician windshield time, Markus explains how implementing rigid scheduling, auditing practices, and route data analysis paid off big for his team.Join us as we discuss: [5:10] Why empathy for technicians is a routing manager’s greatest soft skill[8:17] How routing efficiencies helped slash overall fuel consumption by 20%[14:18] The benefits of quarterly vs. monthly service agreementsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ACTION Termite & Pest ControlBest Practices from Peers: Optimizing Your Business with FieldRoutesYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Mindset in pest control plays a crucial role in navigating the challenges of daily operations and long-term growth. In this special compilation episode of Pest in Class, we revisit three powerful conversations with industry leaders who’ve tackled discomfort, burnout, and bold career moves. Hear inspirational highlights from: Kyle Selbach, Director of Operations at All U Need Pest ControlSam Taggart, Founder and CEO of D2D ExpertsAnd Rachel Mendes, Owner of Last Call Pest ControlThis is your mid-season reminder to keep pushing, keep growing, and keep your mindset sharp.Join us as we discuss: [1:02] Why getting uncomfortable is key to success[4:36] How to help a struggling team member rediscover their “why”[7:06] The value of building a supportive entrepreneurial communityYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What happens when tradespeople go beyond the job and become pillars of their communities? Jen Roberts, Senior Director of Integrated Marketing at ServiceTitan, joins us to discuss Power the Nation, a movement dedicated to amplifying the incredible ways trades professionals give back. From friendly rivalries and food drives to local scholarships and surprise community makeovers, Jen shares how these unsung heroes power more than just homes and businesses.Join us as we discuss: [5:08] The mission of sharing tradespeople’s community impact[8:38] How competitors unite to feed a community[12:18] Why celebrating philanthropy in the trades mattersCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Power the NationYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Jeff Simmons first stepped into pest control, he was just a college student looking for a summer sales job. Now, as the Owner of Malang Pest Control, he has built a thriving business from scratch — even launching during the Great Recession in 2009.Jeff shares how he bootstrapped his business with no loans, leveraged door-to-door sales, and navigated industry shifts to create a sustainable and successful pest control company. He also reveals how COVID unexpectedly boosted his business and why embracing technology, like FieldRoutes software, is crucial for growth. Tune in to learn Jeff’s grassroots strategies for scaling a pest control business the smart way.Join us as we discuss:[2:34] Building a business from scratch during tough times[9:13] How technology has helped Jeff scale his business[12:53] Training a thriving door-to-door sales team through partnershipsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:D2D MillionaireThe D2D ExpertsEat What You Kill by Sam TaggartYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Scaling a pest control business is no small feat, but RIDD Home Services has done it with remarkable efficiency. In this episode, we sit down with Dan Farah, Chief Administrative Officer at RIDD, to discuss how the company has grown exponentially since its founding in 2020 — landing a coveted spot on the PCT Top 100 list.Dan shares how his background in corporate finance and software development equipped him with the skills to streamline operations, optimize FieldRoutes, and create a scalable staffing strategy. From automating tasks to refining scheduling, his insights offer valuable takeaways for any pest control business looking to improve efficiency.Join us as we discuss:[4:47] Key contributors to RIDD’s exponential scaling since 2020[10:22] Software tools to help streamline operations and marketing[17:01] How the pest control community provides support for growthCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Pest Control Technology Top 100FieldRoutes Pathfinder NetworkYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What truly sets a pest control business apart? According to Denise Trad-Wartan, it’s all about company culture and leveraging the right technology to streamline operations.The CEO of Trad’s Pest Control in Jacksonville, FL, shares how she transitioned into the industry, the critical changes she made to improve safety and efficiency, and why FieldRoutes became a game-changer for her company. She also unpacks why strong leadership and team empowerment are the secret ingredients to standing out in a competitive market.Tune in for an insightful discussion on how culture and technology drive pest control success.Join us as we discuss:[6:55] How an intuitive CRM can accelerate business growth[12:07] The benefits of customizable tools and digital automation[17:50] Why company culture is your biggest competitive advantageCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:FieldRoutesAccountability: The Key to Driving a High-Performance Culture by Greg BustinYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Many pest control companies rely on outdated digital marketing tactics — often handing the job to a family member who “knows Instagram.” But there’s a smarter way to market, one that drives real growth and measurable results.In this episode, Amanda talks with Kirby Oscar, SVP and General Manager at Scorpion. Kirby shares practical digital marketing strategies that help pest control businesses scale, attract more customers, and maximize ROI. From social ads and email campaigns to leveraging your customer data, this conversation is packed with tools to help you market like a pro.Join us as we discuss: [5:18] Why trusting experts matters (and what not to do)[12:04] Social media marketing — posting versus paid strategy[18:55] Leads, lifetime value, and metrics that matterCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:FieldRoutesMarketing ProYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Running a family business isn’t always easy, but Tom Myers, President, and Kristin Fore, CEO, of All-Rite Pest Control, have spent decades turning challenges into triumphs.The father-daughter duo shares how trust, innovation, and problem-solving have fueled All-Rite’s success for over 50 years in Lexington, KY. Tom discusses his passion for entomology and empowering his team, while Kristin highlights her journey into the family business and her focus on modernizing operations.From building a legacy to navigating family dynamics, this episode is packed with insights for pest control professionals looking to scale their small businesses.Join us as we discuss:[12:09] Navigating family dynamics and empowering your team[18:16] Key growth strategies that have helped All-Rite thrive[26:05] The importance of a healthy work-life balance as an owner[32:36] Advice for aspiring pest control business ownersCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:FieldRoutesYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Kendra Snyder, co-owner of Quest Termite & Pest Control in Hellertown, PA, returns to the show to share insights on leadership and growth in the pest control industry.Kendra draws on her unique background in fitness and her years of business ownership to discuss the importance of proactive leadership, fostering a strong company culture, and balancing family dynamics in a professional setting. She also highlights how her approach to mentoring and role-playing helps empower employees to excel in their roles.Tune in for actionable advice from one of the industry’s most inspiring leaders on taking the initiative in team management.Join us as we discuss:[6:09] Starting a business with a spouse and setting clear boundaries[11:50] How a leader’s positive attitude influences company culture[20:21] Proactive leadership and finding your employees’ superpowers[28:47] Evolving your business model and the importance of transparencyCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:FieldRoutesRegister now for Ignite 2025 in Anaheim, CA here! You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have become a hot topic in the pest control industry. But how can owners navigate this complex process?Dan Gordon, Founder and Managing Director at PCO Bookkeepers and co-host of the PMP Industry Insiders podcast, shares a practical guide for business owners looking to buy or sell a pest control company. Dan walks through the essential steps, from identifying potential buyers to conducting due diligence and negotiating a successful deal. He also highlights the emotional challenges that come with selling a business and offers insights into current M&A trends in the industry.Whether you're preparing for an exit or looking to expand, this episode is packed with valuable advice from one of the industry's top financial experts.Join us as we discuss:[8:06] What to look for when considering a pest control company purchase[20:24] Dealing with emotions during the M&A process[29:00] Common acquisition mistakes and gauging company cultureCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:PMP Industry Insiders with Dan Gordon and Donnie SheltonYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Ellen Rohr, Brand and Industry Marketing Lead at ServiceTitan, shares her inspiring journey from financial struggles to business success.Ellen discusses the five key steps to becoming a first-class financial manager, offering actionable insights tailored for pest control professionals. She emphasizes the importance of confidence, stewardship, and financial literacy in building a thriving business.Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, this episode will leave you motivated to master your finances and grow your enterprise.Join us as we discuss:[5:04] The dangers of burnout and financial stress[13:14] Overcoming the reluctance to face money problems head-on [23:46] The 5 steps to mastering financial literacy in your businessCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Where Did the Money Go? By Ellen RohrHow Much Should I Charge? By Ellen RohrThe Business of Contracting By Frank BlauThe Great Game of Business By Jack StackTricks of the Trade to Success: The Magic of Creating Your Ta-daaah! In Business and in Life By Paul KellySave $150 On Your “Early Bird” Ignite AdmissionYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The 2024 State of the Pest Industry Report is here — and it’s packed with insights to help pest control business owners strategize for growth. Anders Fredericksen, Senior Product Marketing Manager at FieldRoutes, joins us to break down the key findings, from revenue growth strategies and marketing automation investments to technology adoption challenges.We dive into how companies are optimizing cash flow, balancing headcount with automation, and navigating barriers to software adoption. Plus, Anders highlights emerging trends like AI, property intelligence, and the growing demand for end-to-end management platforms.Discover how the pest control industry is planning for a more efficient, customer-focused, and tech-driven future.Join us as we discuss:[3:44] General highlights from the 2024 State of the Pest Industry Report  [9:49] Marketing automation, AI tools, and other tech trends[21:07] Top goals, priorities, and concerns heading into 2025[29:56] The biggest surprise takeaways from the annual reportCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:2024 State of the Pest Industry ReportThrive AnalyticsState of the Pest Control Industry Heading into 2025 Webinar with Anders Fredericksen and Eddie WootenSave $150 On Your “Early Bird” Ignite AdmissionYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, we sit down with Zach Boardman, Director of Technical Operations at HomeShield Pest Control in Orange County, California.Zach talks about the art of active listening and why understanding the customer’s perspective is key to exceptional service. He also reveals how FieldRoutes reporting tools have become a game-changer in streamlining business operations and driving growth.Zach also takes us behind the scenes of HomeShield's innovative apprenticeship program, sharing how it’s shaping the next generation of pest control professionals. Join us as we discuss: [9:41] Why the customer’s experience is always right[11:39] HomeShield's apprenticeship program[17:26] The impact of FieldRoutes on customer relationshipsSave $150 On Your “Early Bird” Ignite AdmissionYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this special holiday episode of Pest in Class, host Amanda Salvatore highlights extraordinary acts of compassion and community support within the pest management industry.Discover how Suzy Rayner of Valkyrie Pest Solutions transforms customer experiences with her trauma-informed care approach, reshaping treatment processes with empathy. Hear about Eric and Kurt Scherzinger’s inspiring efforts at Scherzinger Pest Control to foster employee well-being and adapt company culture during the challenges of COVID-19. Finally, learn about the impactful work of Ryan and Noel Goins of Get Goins Pest Control in providing crucial aid to families facing severe infestations.These powerful stories underline the profound role of empathy, community outreach, and creative solutions in elevating pest control beyond its traditional scope.Join us as we discuss: [00:52] A trauma-informed approach to customer service[8:32] Shouting your employee appreciation from the rooftops[16:34] Helping struggling families with their pest control needsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:The Keep It Goins FoundationSave $150 On Your “Early Bird” Ignite AdmissionYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.