Snow Talk with SIMA

Join me on this episode of Snow Talk as we explore the vital connection between sales and operations at EMI, a leading snow management company. We'll discuss how EMI effectively aligns these departments to streamline processes, enhance communication, and ensure operational efficiency, especially during winter storms. I’m joined by Scott Shelton, the Business Development Manager, and Zach Kolasa, Operations Manager, who share insights on their comprehensive sales strategies, robust training programs, and the importance of educating clients on service expectations. As the conversation unfolds, we’ll also examine tools and technologies that support seamless operations and improve customer experiences. Tune in for valuable lessons that can elevate your snow management business.

In this episode of Snow Talk, we explore the unique challenges of snow management in the Mid-Atlantic region, from Washington, DC, to Baltimore. Joined by industry experts Steve Mruk of Potomac Lawns and Mike McCarron of ImageWorks Landscaping, we delve into the complexities of operating in an area with inconsistent snowfall. We discuss the impact of heavy traffic, school schedules, and government operations on snow management. Our conversation also highlights the importance of training, technology, and innovative solutions like liquid deicing. Tune in as we uncover how contractors navigate unpredictable weather and client expectations in this demanding market.

In this conversation, SIMA Foundation CEO, Martin Tirado, discusses the role of associations and their sister organizations, 501c3 foundations, can build the industry through research and the importance of understanding the industry's impact for growth. He emphasizes the need for financial support from stakeholders to continue this progress with his guest, SIMA Foundation Board Chair, Jim Hornung, Jr., CSP (Elbers Landscape Services, Inc.)

In this year-in-review podcast, Martin Tirado, CEO of SIMA, discusses the past year's achievements and future plans with board members Chris Hinton, CSP (GRM Inc.) and Jeff Heller, CSP (Innovative Maintenance Solutions). They highlight strategic planning initiatives, the launch of the Accelerate program for emerging leaders, and the upcoming symposium in Cincinnati. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community engagement, addressing insurance challenges, and the role of the SIMA Foundation in supporting industry research and education. Listeners are encouraged to get involved and take advantage of the resources available through SIMA.

Jim Plona, Director of Snow & Ice at McNelly Services in Lake Zurich, Illinois, and Evan Newman discuss how to scale a snow business – smartly and sustainably.

In this episode of Snow Talk, we dive into the financial landscape of the snow and ice management industry with Steve Wolff, founder of WOLFFWORKS Consulting. We explore the findings of SIMA's 2025 Profitability and Benchmarking Study, which surveyed 161 firms across North America. Discover how the average snow business operates, from revenue streams to cost structures, and learn about the economic challenges impacting profitability. We also discuss strategies for growth, including contract types and pricing models, to help your business thrive despite rising labor and equipment costs. Join us for insights that could reshape your approach to snow management.

In this episode of Snow Talk, Evan Newman from SIMA sits down with Kevin Stonitsch, CSP, owner of Adirondack Customs, to explore the vital topics of culture and accountability in the snow industry. We delve into the importance of building an engaged team and the tough decisions leaders must face, including letting go of team members who do not align with company values. Kevin shares his experiences with the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and how it has helped his team thrive during challenging winter months. We discuss the significance of transparency, trust, and maintaining a strong culture even during difficult times. Join us for insights that can empower you to enhance your leadership approach and cultivate a more cohesive and effective team in the snow and ice management industry.

Russ Marsan of Carpenter & Costin in Vermont joins Snow Talk to discuss his efforts in elevating the importance of the trades through his work with Bring Back the Trades.

Blizzards in the deep south...say what?! Levi Jett, CSP, ASM, joins Snow Talk to share stories of how he and a team of snow fighters traveled to New Orleans to assist municipalities that were out of their element when a blizzard bore down on a large swath of the south.

JC Grounds Management's Jon Crandall, CSP, discusses the importance of educating property managers on snow removal. He also shares his new book, which he wrote to help the industry with that outreach.

Snow Mikhail Ter-Grigoryan, president of Just for Snow Property Services, covers his insights on the snow removal industry, including preparation, best practices, employee engagement, innovation, competition, attracting and identifying talent, workplace culture, momentum, risk-taking, and perspective.

On this month's episode of Snow Talk, we sit down with President of G. McNeill & Son Contracting, Shane McNeill. He shares what lessons and hardships have looked like navigating a third generation family owned business. We also discuss what he does to develop his people and what tools have proven to be useful in their growth goals. We'll also discuss what Shane and company are keeping a pulse on in regard to future opportunities. Thanks to our sponsors Western Snow Plows, Fisher Engineering, and SnowEx

This month on Snow Talk, we're remembering Alan Steiman, a SIMA leader who left a lasting impact. Deb Mattson and Debora Babin Katz join us to share stories of Alan and discuss the scholarship created in his name. We'll also talk about the value of attending the SIMA Symposium and how it's evolving for contractors. Don't miss it! Thanks to our sponsors Western, Fisher, and SnowEx

Building trust through transparency Nick Alborella, Vice President of Advanced Snow Management, talked with SIMA about the importance of trust and transparency in building client relationships, the foundational strategies for launching a snow management business, and the role of technology in enhancing communication and efficiency. He highlights the necessity of being comfortable with discomfort to foster growth, the challenges of maintaining a good reputation in a scrutinized industry, and the significance of transparent pricing. The discussion also touched on the value of learning from others' experiences to enhance business practices and sustainability.Key takeaways: Effective communication is key to understanding client needs. Systemizing operations ensures consistency and reliability. Technology aids in transparency but should not replace personal interaction. Client education helps in setting realistic expectations. Providing an experience, not just a service, enhances client satisfaction.Thanks to our sponsors Western, Fisher, and SnowEx

We wrap up 2024 with a great episode featuring Outdoor Pride Landscaping & Snow Management's Billy Butts and Garden Grove Commercial Grounds and Snow Management's David Lammers, who talk about the power of networking. Hint ... it's not about what's in it for you!

Skyline's Mark Arthofer joins SIMA's Evan Newman to talk about building partnerships and relationships between private snow contractors and public works entities like municipalities, airports, military bases and more.

Industry consultant Angela Cenzalli and The Integra Group’s Jenny Girard explore personal experiences with mental health challenges, the detrimental industry norms that contribute to burnout, and the importance of creating a culture of wellness and support.

Bill Akehurst, Vice President and Chief Information Officer for Akehurst Landscape joins Snow Talk to discuss worst-case scenarios that snow & ice management companies could face. Host Cheryl Higley, Director of Education & Content for SIMA, is joined by Amanda Pruss, SIMA's senior membership manager to go over scenarios like cyber attacks, fire, accidents, and more.

Tory Chlanda from Betterview Landscapes in Amherst, MA joins Snow Talk to share the importance of intentionality in business planning and how it leads to greater sales and revenues. Listen for these tips and more:  Selling safety can set a company apart from the competition.Educating clients on the importance of safety and communicating it through various channels is key to success. Hiring the right people and involving them in the strategy-building process is crucial for success.

It's summer but it's never to early to start reviewing your winter preventive maintenance plans! Stork's Plows' Jeen Stork joins Snow Talk to talk about the perils of ignoring preventive maintenance and how even the littlest missed details can cause big trouble. Listen for these tips and more:  Preventive maintenance is crucial for snow equipment to prevent wear and costly breakdowns.The role of a dealer is significant in providing support, education, and quick access to parts for snow contractors.The snow equipment industry is evolving with the integration of electronics and computer-operated systems, presenting new challenges and opportunities.