Roots of Success

Ever wondered how the partnership between McFarlin Stanford and The Grow Group got its start? On this roundtable episode of Roots of Success, Jason New, Chris Psencik and Jim Cali of McFarlin Stanford sit down with Marty Grunder and Vince Torchia of The Grow Group to recall how ACE Peer Groups began and how it has grown through over 10 years of collaboration. You'll hear the candid, behind-the-scenes tales of how a simple idea—born out of entrepreneurial struggle and a desire for community—blossomed into a nationwide network changing the lives and businesses of its members. Get the inside track on new ACE initiatives, the role of technology and team engagement, and what makes the partnership between these two companies so powerful. If you're looking for the blueprint on building a supportive, high-achieving community, this episode is for you. THE BIG IDEA:   Stronger Together  KEY MOMENTS:  [04:56] "Building World-Class Peer Meetings" [06:17] "Parenting and Limited Disclosure" [11:05] "Impromptu Presentation Success Story" [14:16] "Building Connected Peer Networks" [16:45] ACE Peer Learning & Growth [21:37] Rapid Industry Change and Growth [23:45] "Teaching Intentions and Growth" [27:21] "Outsourcing for Better Focus" [28:36] "Maximizing Business Leverage Points" [33:54] "Reflecting on Growth and Gratitude" [35:57] "Stronger Together in Collaboration"  QUESTIONS WE ANSWER  How did the idea for the ACE peer group program originate, and what gap was it intended to fill within the landscape industry?  What are some specific challenges business owners face when it comes to finding accountability and honest feedback in their professional lives?  What key features differentiate the ACE peer group program from other industry mastermind groups or networking events?  How has the evolution of technology (like apps and webinars) improved the experience and value provided to peer group members?  In what ways does the annual GROW event contribute to the professional development and culture of participating companies?  How does offering specialized services, such as bookkeeping and recruiting, help landscape businesses focus more on their core strengths?  What role does a strong sense of community play in driving long-term engagement and success in peer groups?  What are some real-world examples of transformational outcomes seen among companies that consistently participate in these peer groups and educational events? 

How do you landscape a luxury island resort in the blazing heat of the UAE? On this episode of Roots of Success, Simon Smith, Director of Horticulture and Landscape for Wynn Resort, reveals the relentless pace and monumental scale of his latest project: an integrated resort requiring 500,000 plants, 7,000 trees, and an elite team of 9,000 employees. Host, Chris Psencik, digs into the inside story of Simon's journey across continents, the innovative strategies behind sourcing plants worldwide, and the transformative power of intentional team building and training. A must-listen for anyone who loves stories of growth, leadership, and landscaping on a breathtaking scale. THE BIG IDEA:   All big things start with small innovations. KEY MOMENTS:  [03:50] Horticulture Career Journey [09:21] "Transforming Work in Ras Al Khaimah" [11:06] "Reflecting on Career Journey" [13:43] "Teamwork Drives World-Class Success" [17:24] Massive Plant Nursery Operations [22:36] Plant Quarantine and Recovery Process [26:28] Building and Managing Successful Teams [27:49] Preparing for Luxury Hotel Launch [32:50] "Sustainable Workshop Design Process" [35:58] "Building 'Win Way' from Scratch" [38:10] Starting Fresh for Excellence  QUESTIONS WE ANSWER  What are some challenges faced when managing landscape projects across vastly different climates and cultures?  How can a team of landscapers effectively adapt Western business practices to projects in the Middle East?  What strategies might be used for sourcing and transporting thousands of plants and trees from various countries for a large-scale resort project?  How does the use of innovative equipment and data management systems impact large landscaping installations?  What are the complexities involved in setting up irrigation systems in a region with limited natural water resources?  What role does specialized training and certification play in maintaining high horticultural standards for an international workforce?  How can landscape management approaches foster a strong and collaborative team culture on multi-year, high-budget projects?  In what ways does integrating sustainability, such as battery-powered equipment and efficient water usage, shape modern landscaping on luxury resorts?  How do you ensure smooth collaboration and communication among teams composed of various nationalities and languages?  What is the importance of creating a dedicated off-site nursery and training center when preparing for a resort opening of unprecedented scale? 

In this episode of Roots of Success, host, Barrett Chow, welcomes Tom Tessmer, founder of QLVR (Clever), for a frank conversation on the power of employee engagement surveys and the real impact of culture in the workplace. Tom draws on 20 years of Human Resources experience to break down how data-driven insights can transform teams, improve employee satisfaction, and drive better business outcomes. Discover why gathering honest feedback matters, when to pursue engagement surveys, the difference between culture and engagement—and what to watch out for so your efforts don't backfire. Whether you're a landscaping business owner or an HR leader, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you create a more connected, successful, and resilient team.  THE BIG IDEA:   Culture is shaped by action, not intention  KEY MOMENTS:  [06:07] Challenger vs. Peacekeeper Perspectives [10:03] Defining Quality in the Workplace [12:44] "Bridging HR and Business Skills" [16:10] "Employee Engagement Survey Benefits" [18:04] Team Dynamics and Values [22:42] Culture Choices and Brilliant Jerks [24:07] Balancing Performance and Culture [28:27] Dynamic Culture and Engagement Management [31:16] Employee Engagement and Trust Insights [34:19] "Data Analysis for Deeper Insights"  QUESTIONS WE ANSWER  What is the main purpose of conducting an employee engagement survey?  How to define the difference between company culture and employee engagement?  Why is it important for engagement surveys to be anonymous?  What risks are involved in conducting an engagement survey, and how can companies avoid them?  How can employee engagement surveys help business owners prioritize actions and reduce stress?  What role does compatibility and diversity of perspectives play in a successful organization?  Why is it crucial for organizations to act on the feedback received from engagement surveys?  What are some common pitfalls when implementing engagement surveys for the first time?  Why is monitoring culture and engagement seen as an ongoing process rather than a one-time activity? 

In this episode of Roots of Success, Chris Psencik sits down with Jeff Margulies, owner of Good Earth Landscape in Colorado's breathtaking Roaring Fork Valley. Jeff shares his journey from a finance career in Boston to building one of the region's powerhouse landscape companies — despite daunting challenges like high costs, seasonal constraints, and retaining top talent in a resort market. Discover how Jeff's business philosophy combines performance with a deep love for the environment and learn about the creative culture-building strategies that have shaped Good Earth into a thriving team. Whether you're searching for inspiration, growth tactics, or a unique business story, this episode offers practical wisdom and a glimpse of life where work and nature meet.  THE BIG IDEA:    Culture conquers challenges KEY MOMENTS: [04:55 Interview Journey and New Beginnings  [07:14] "Building Good Earth's Revival"  [12:14] Landscaping: Unique Challenges & Dynamics  [15:17] "Landscaping's Love-Hate Reality"  [19:17] "Balancing Lifestyle and Housing Costs"  [22:13] Building Connections, Valuing Field Staff  [24:44] Gratitude, Work, Cookouts, Mountain Biking  [30:07] Creating Opportunity, Changing Lives  [32:14] Navigating Opportunities and Focus  QUESTIONS WE ANSWER How do you start and grow a successful landscaping business? How can someone transition from a background in finance to becoming a leader in the landscaping industry?  What made the Roaring Fork Valley and Aspen, Colorado, appealing to teams when relocating?  What were some of the major challenges faced when taking over another person's company?  What unique challenges does the Roaring Fork Valley market present when it comes to hiring and retaining employees?  How does can a leader approach building a strong company culture?  What are some examples of their team-building activities?  In what ways does the seasonal nature and high cost of living in Aspen impact the company's operations and staffing? 

Ever thought about selling your landscape business—but figured it was years down the road? What if the perfect opportunity landed in your lap, sooner than expected? In this episode of Roots of Success, host Jason New of McFarland Stanford sits down with Andrew Gabries, who built not one, but two thriving companies—Andrew's Lawn and Landscaping and Go Green Lawn and Pest Control—and exited both earlier than planned. From hustling alongside his mom in high school to managing 100+ employees and planning strategic sales, Andrew shares hard-won lessons about hiring, culture, scaling, and what it takes to make a company truly sellable. Whether you're contemplating your exit or just want to grow a world-class team, Andrew's journey is packed with actionable insight for landscape business leaders.   KEY MOMENTS: [03:13] Andrew's Lawn Landscaping Beginnings [08:07] Andrew's Landscaping: Residential to Commercial Shift [12:50] GoGreen's Focus and Growth Strategy [13:56] CEO's Dual Role Simplified [19:28] Celebration-Focused Workplace Culture [20:42] Unexpected Business Sale Decision [24:42] Involving Team Pre-Intent Discussions [28:40] "Seamless Transition at Go Green" [33:09] Aspire Transforms Business Management   THE BIG IDEA:  Build great teams; growth and success follow naturally.   QUESTIONS WE ANSWER How do you start and grow a successful landscaping business? What are the best strategies for scaling a landscaping or lawn care company? How do you prepare a landscaping business for sale or acquisition? What are effective ways to build a strong team and positive company culture in the green industry? What is the role of software and technology in managing a landscaping company efficiently? How do you transition from residential to commercial landscaping contracts? What are tips for balancing business ownership with family life? What's involved in the due diligence process when selling a small business? How do landscaping companies successfully retain long-term employees? What are the key factors in choosing the right partner for selling your business?

What if your company's biggest differentiator wasn't your service, but your people? In this episode of Roots of Success, host Barrett Chow sits down with Nubia Gutierrez, CEO and founder of HR in Bloom, to unpack why investing in your HR strategy is the ultimate game-changer for landscape businesses. Learn how Nubia transformed HR from a "paper-pushing" afterthought into a core driver for recruiting, retention, and a thriving team culture, plus field-tested tips for scaling your HR department as you grow.  THE BIG IDEA:   Effective and intentional HR grows teams and drives business success.  KEY MOMENTS:  [05:47] Reimagining the HR Role [06:35] Learning Landscape Industry Challenges [09:52] Effective Support Systems in Leadership [16:08] Empowering Change Through Feedback [19:47] Community Engagement Boosts Recruitment [23:46] Strategic HR Planning [25:52] Internal Promotion Motivates Employees [29:14] Pursuing Professional Certification Goals [32:45] HR's Strategic Role and Benefits  QUESTIONS WE ANSWER  What are the biggest HR challenges in the landscaping industry?  How can small businesses improve their HR practices?  How do you build a positive company culture in field service businesses?  Why is it important for HR to have a seat at the leadership table?  How can businesses reduce employee turnover in manual labor industries?  What are the benefits of promoting from within versus hiring externally?  How do HR professionals manage multiple roles in small companies?  What are the best recruitment and retention strategies for landscaping companies?  How can companies develop effective career paths for employees?  What is the value of HR certifications and continuous training for small business HR teams? 

Absolutely crushing it in landscape sales—only to discover your teams don't know how your company actually makes money? Wondering why your backlog is shrinking or your people aren't moving your business forward the way you hoped? In this raw, high-energy roundtable episode of Roots of Success, our panel of seasoned coaches and industry leaders get real about what's working NOW for landscape executives. From reviving old-school sales strategies to turning every employee into an advocate for your bottom line, you'll get practical stories and tested tactics for growing a resilient, profitable business. Expect war stories, laughs, bold ideas, and inspiration to help you build a smarter, more profitable landscape business, plus actionable pearls you can implement now.  THE BIG IDEA:  Prioritize communication, people, and financial transparency always.  KEY MOMENTS: [06:33] Reviving Proactive Sales Strategies [10:23] Expanding Business With Existing Clients [12:24] Optimize Existing Leads for Growth [14:50] Improving Profit Margins Incrementally [18:33] Hidden Costs of Equipment Loss [23:02] Consistency in Leadership Education [26:58] Clarity Builds Trust and Progress [27:36] "Business Growth Through Role Reevaluation" [30:50] Organizational Misalignment Challenges [35:17] "Family vs. Work Boundaries" [40:01] "Unexpected Hospital Conference Bonding"    QUESTIONS WE ANSWER How can landscaping businesses deal with shrinking backlogs and find more work?  What are the best sales strategies for landscaping companies in a slow market?  How do I educate my landscaping team about company profits and financials?  What is open book management and how can it help my small business?  How can I create effective career paths and growth opportunities for my landscaping employees?  What are best practices for succession planning in family-owned landscaping businesses?  How do you communicate company financials to your landscaping crew?  What are some ways to boost employee retention in the landscape industry?  How can landscaping companies transition from project work to recurring maintenance contracts?  What are the key steps to building a successful landscaping business team?   

What if "just sod" was the secret to dominating a niche landscape market? In this episode, Tommy Cole sits down with Tom and Dana Groh of Minnesota Sodding Company (MSC) to uncover how they turned a teenage side-hustle into one of the most respected specialty contractors in the Midwest. From firing up equipment on commercial job sites to building pro-level athletic fields—even tackling the legendary Minnesota Twins' Target Field—the Grohs share how a relentless focus on relationships, a data-driven approach to pricing, and a true team mentality have powered their growth. If you're looking for real talk on running a people-first business, out-coaching the competition, and navigating the unique challenges of working with your spouse, this is an episode you can't miss. THE BIG IDEA:  Protect relationships; build success through strong teams. KEY MOMENTS: [06:06] Career Growth Through Early Experience [07:31] Preferred Day: Fieldwork Team Spirit [10:54] Local Challenges, Distant Successes [13:21] "Breaking Into Target Field Construction" [18:55] "Challenge Accepted: Hotel Duck Photo" [22:30] Discovering Element: Streamlining Operations [26:04] Adjusting Markets for Profitability [29:53] "Focus on Work, Not Profit" [31:48] Impactful Bonus Programs Boost Performance [36:50] Building Team Relationships [37:24] Longtime Team as Family [43:03] Navigating Marriage and Business Together QUESTIONS WE ANSWER What are the keys to building strong client and vendor relationships in the landscaping industry? How can you find your niche in the landscaping or lawn care business? What is the importance of revenue per hour as a KPI in landscaping businesses? How do commercial and residential landscaping projects differ? What are effective bonus and profit sharing programs for field crews in service businesses? How can technology and software transform operations and efficiency in landscaping companies? What are some challenges and solutions for bidding on projects outside your local area? What steps should you take to grow a landscaping company from a small startup to handling major commercial contracts? How can you create a culture of teamwork and low turnover in a small or medium-sized service business?  

Think running a landscape company with your spouse is a recipe for disaster? Think again. Kerry and Jill Cline are living proof that partnership—at work and at home—can become your biggest business superpower. This candid conversation peels back the curtain on how they built C&S Lawn Service & Landscaping: from passing out flyers as a teenager to scaling up with peer support, adopting game-changing software, and building a culture of accountability and trust. Find out what it takes to get out of your own way, empower your team, and finally move from chaos to control, no matter how long you've been "too busy" to change. THE BIG IDEA:  Growth comes from learning and taking action. KEY MOMENTS: [04:09] Building a Business Beyond Friends [08:00] Family Business Decision [11:16] Streamlining Hiring and Organization [14:59] Trust and Financial Clarity [16:58] Hiring Smarter Mentors for Growth [20:34] Inaction Despite Learning [24:32] "Software Adoption Success Story" [28:59] Team-Centric Financial Transparency [30:20] "Aligning Personal and Professional Goals" [34:13] Empowering Teams through Management [37:30] "Elevate Through Mentorship" QUESTIONS WE ANSWER What are the benefits of joining a business peer group? How can husband and wife successfully run a business together? When should I hire a fractional CFO for my small business? How do I transition from working in my business to working on my business? What is open book management, and should I use it in my company? How do I build a strong company culture in the landscape industry? What's the best way to implement systems and processes in a small business? What are some challenges of hiring friends and family in your business?  

Think marketing is just about flashy ads and social media posts? Think again. In this special two-year anniversary episode of Roots of Success, host Tommy Cole sits down with marketing mastermind John Dalton to celebrate the two year anniversary of the show and expose the real secrets behind building a thriving landscape brand. From their own stories of podcast mishaps and hard-won lessons, to John's 7 C's marketing framework, this episode is packed with priceless advice owners and execs can put to work right away. Whether you're wrestling with a scattered marketing plan or simply looking to refine your company's image, you'll hear actionable strategies for clarifying your message, reaching your ideal clients, and fueling long-term growth. THE BIG IDEA:  Marketing starts with clarity and knowing customers. KEY MOMENTS: [08:22] Celebrating Success with Prosecco [10:36] Understanding Marketing's Complexity [14:30] Landscaping Marketing Framework Initiative [19:35] Business Cohesion and Evaluation Framework [22:18] Brand Consistency Through Visuals [24:08] Clarifying Business Vision Challenges [29:25] Enhancing Communication and Strategy Planning [33:12] Social Media: Time vs. Necessity [36:03] Team Focus Boosts Landscape Marketing [38:37] Social Media's Role in Business Relationships [42:49] Prioritize Expertise and Marketing QUESTIONS WE ANSWER What are the essential steps for creating a marketing plan for a landscaping business? How can landscaping companies identify their ideal customer profile? What are common marketing mistakes small businesses make? How do you build a strong brand identity in the landscaping industry? What is a fractional CMO and how can they help small businesses? What is the role of social media in recruiting employees for landscaping companies? What are the best marketing strategies for service-based businesses? How do marketing and sales work together in growing a business?  

What if the most rewarding part of growing a landscape business isn't the lush gardens or high-end installs, but something much deeper? On this episode of Roots of Success, Tommy Cole chats with Adam Dukes, founder of GrandScapes, who pulls back the curtain on his journey from a two-person startup in 2008 to a highly respected Charleston landscape company. Adam reveals what it really takes to build a winning leadership team, how to turn installation clients into lifelong maintenance customers, and why team success is the true driver of growth. Packed with candid stories and actionable advice, this episode is a must-listen for owners and leaders ready to level up their business (and their people). THE BIG IDEA:  Prioritize your people; success naturally follows. KEY MOMENTS: [04:32] Charleston's Diverse Landscapes [07:23] Building a Strong Management Team [12:02] Building Future Business Success [13:24] Rethinking Plans Amid Distractions [17:14] Key Metrics & Employee Engagement [19:06] Empathy Drives Honest Feedback [22:47] Weekly Recap for Installation Success [25:56] Cultivating a High-Quality Culture [31:24] "Focus on Growing Maintenance Division" [34:56] Empowering Team Growth [37:36] Team Growth and Future Planning QUESTIONS WE ANSWER How do I grow a landscaping business from scratch? What are the biggest challenges when starting a landscape company? How can small business owners build an effective leadership team? What is the best way to transition from working in your business to working on your business? How do I promote employees from within my company? How can landscape companies improve communication with clients? How can I train and develop my landscaping team for long-term success? Why is maintenance important for landscape businesses, and how can you grow this segment? What are the benefits of joining business peer groups for company owners?  

Are you still running your landscape maintenance crews like it's 2005—while your competitors leap ahead with data-driven decisions and battery-powered fleets? In this episode, Tommy sits down with Bob Carey, a leader who's mastered every angle of the business—from gritty field operations to creating scalable systems and jumping into the disruptive world of robotic mowers. Bob breaks down how tracking data, focusing on customer education, and building for capacity have fueled his growth, and he reveals practical advice for hiring, training, and future-proofing your workforce in today's ever-evolving market. THE BIG IDEA:  Systematize, train, and innovate for landscaping success KEY MOMENTS: [05:28] Landscaping Opportunity in Charleston [08:37] Learn By Doing in the Field [12:31] Data Tracking for Irrigation Management [15:49] Home Development and Landscaping Partnership [18:37] Landscaping Insight and Financial Expertise [22:17] Creative HOA Cost-Saving Strategy [28:05] Exciting Career in Autonomous Equipment [29:46] Coaches and Mentors Enhance Success [33:14] Three Charging Methods Explained [38:10] Equipment Purchase Cost Analysis [40:31] Plan Now for Future Demand [44:42] Effortless Robot Mower Installation [48:57] Labor Challenges and Purposeful Growth QUESTIONS WE ANSWER How do I grow my landscaping business efficiently? What are the benefits of using battery-powered landscaping equipment? What is the best way to train and develop landscape maintenance teams? How do I create scalable systems for my landscaping company? How does data management improve landscaping operations? How can landscape companies increase profitability with technology? What are the challenges and solutions in HOA landscape maintenance? How do you implement a commercial robotic mower in your landscaping business?  

DESCRIPTION:  Have you ever thought about the challenges of transforming a small two-crew landscaping business into a thriving multi-location success? In this episode of "Roots of Success," Tommy Cole sits down with Chase Mullin of Mullin Landscape to uncover the strategic decisions that fueled his company's impressive growth. From leveraging the aftermath of Hurricane Ida to repositioning business focus from residential to commercial projects, Chase shares the pivotal moments that defined Mullin Landscape's journey. Plus, get insights into the power of maintaining a strong company culture while expanding to new locations. Don't miss Chase's valuable lessons on balancing growth and quality in the competitive landscaping industry.   THE BIG IDEA:  Adaptability leads to transformations.   KEY MOMENTS: [04:08 "Foundations: Residential to Commercial Evolution" [07:48] "Team's Transition and Truth" [12:27] Team Capacity for Expansion [14:12] Hurricane Ida: Damage and Opportunity [18:53] Aligning & Motivating Business Leaders [20:16] Comprehensive Meetings and Reporting [22:57] Minimalist Open Space Design

Are you thinking long-term in landscaping, or are you trapped in short-term wins? Transform your approach with insights from Gene Freeman of Complete Landsculpture, as he sits down with our host Tommy Cole. Explore the pivotal changes that propelled Complete Landsculpture into a thriving business with a focus on maintenance and leadership development. Whether you're looking to elevate your landscape company's recurring revenue or refine your leadership strategies, this episode is your blueprint to success. Tune in and tune up your business strategy. THE BIG IDEA:  Strong leadership and teamwork fuel expansion KEY MOMENTS: [00:00] Maintenance Drives Business Growth [04:57] Team's Market Diversification Initiative [08:57] Trust Drives Customer Relationships [10:51] Developing Talent and Team Growth [15:42] Monthly Task Prioritization Discussion [17:51] Wednesday Midweek Meeting Schedule [19:26] Instant Feedback Fosters Team Growth [23:07] Profit Sharing Over Bonuses [27:03] Teamwork Sparks Growth and Improvement [29:20] Streamlined Crew Task Documentation QUESTIONS WE ANSWER What are the benefits of focusing on maintenance in a landscaping business? How can a landscaping company grow its maintenance division? What is the impact of a recession on landscape design and maintenance companies? How to develop a leadership team in the landscaping industry? How does a profit-sharing program benefit landscape company employees? What role does client relationship management play in the landscaping business? How to transition from a design-build model to a maintenance-focused landscaping business? Why is attending industry events beneficial for landscaping companies?  

Are you truly embracing change, or is it just "the way we've always done it" that's holding your landscape business back? Join Tommy Cole as he sits down with Mark Sedgley, CEO of LMN and Single Ops, in this episode of the Roots of Success podcast. Mark reveals the dynamics of integrating technology in landscaping, debunking myths about software suitability for different business sizes, and sharing secrets of building winning teams. Tune in to discover how embracing change can significantly propel your business forward and why the community might be your most powerful asset yet.   THE BIG IDEA:  Embracing change for growth.   KEY MOMENTS: [03:21] Landscape Business Strategy Insights [07:15] Creating Ripple Impact Through Software [11:07] "Kicking Off Success with Software" [13:17] Adapt to Change, Embrace Growth [19:37] Streamlining Core Software Features [22:45] Streamlining Tech: Simplifying User Experience [26:16] "Authentic Values Drive Success" [29:07] Business Leadership Focus [32:32] From Leader to CEO Growth [37:10] "Networking for Effective Problem Solving" [40:34] Overcoming Challenges   QUESTIONS WE ANSWER What are effective strategies for managing business change? How can technology unlock potential in landscape industries? What is the role of a CEO in tech companies during a merger? Why is community important in the software development process? How can landscape companies benefit from comprehensive software solutions? What are the benefits of using peer groups and mentorship in business growth?  

What if your toughest challenge became the foundation of your success? Join us on Roots of Success as we explore how Jillian Burns turned financial adversity into a thriving landscape venture. Learn about her unwavering commitment to investing in her team, her innovative strategies in snow and landscaping, and her passion for fostering female leadership. This episode is packed with insights for landscape company leaders who want to redefine setbacks as opportunities.   THE BIG IDEA:  Transform setbacks into empowering opportunities   KEY MOMENTS: [00:00] From Adversity to Success [04:41] Value of One-on-One Meetings [08:24] Unsung Defender's Vital Role [14:45] Empowering Women in Business [18:24] Adapting Communication for Leadership Success [22:39] The Importance of Team Feedback [24:03] "Continuous Feedback: A Two-Way Street" [28:35] Women's Peer Group Initiative [31:20] Passionate Personal Branding Experience [33:33] Effective Leadership and Feedback QUESTIONS WE ANSWER How can women succeed in male-dominated industries? What is the role of leadership and strategy in landscape  business growth? How to overcome financial setbacks in a family business? What are effective ways to build and empower a team in the landscaping business? How do athletics influence success in a business career? What are the challenges and opportunities for women in snow management and landscape industries? How to establish and run a business networking group for women? What is the significance of one-on-one meetings in team management? How does personal branding impact business success? What strategies can help in managing and preventing business embezzlement?  

Is your landscape business prepared for the unpredictable? From navigating snowless winters that threatened his company's survival to innovating with heavy machinery and fostering rock-solid vendor relationships, Bob Marks shares his blueprint for turning challenges into triumphs. In this episode, host Tommy Cole uncovers actionable strategies that will not only safeguard your landscaping firm but also propel it to new heights. Don't miss this insider's guide to weathering any storm—both literally and figuratively. THE BIG IDEA: People-first approach drives success KEY MOMENTS: [04:37] Clients Drives Our Landscape Business[09:15] Property Enhancement Strategy Overview[12:19] Consistent Care Builds Client Loyalty[16:32] Snow Removal Industry Evolution[21:10] Managing Snow Operations and Growth[24:24] Snow Equipment Challenges in Landscaping[26:45] Client Risk-Sharing for Asset Recovery[32:15] Prioritizing Employee Welfare[35:59] Vendor Partnerships for Growth[39:02] True Partnership with Mack Trucks[42:28] EMI: Building a People-First Team[43:34] People-First Approach Fuels Success[46:30] Mind and Body Leadership Essentials QUESTIONS WE ANSWER How can landscape companies diversify their revenue streams? What are the best practices for snow removal businesses? How to manage seasonal business cycles in the landscaping industry? How to train a landscape team for both summer and winter operations? What makes a good vendor relationship in the landscaping industry? What are effective strategies for landscape enhancement sales? How to maintain employee morale in a seasonal business?  

DESCRIPTION:  Staying in your comfort zone is the enemy of success. On today's Roots of Success, Tommy dives into a revealing conversation with Jason Cromley, who dishes out the hard-learned lessons from growing Hidden Creek Landscape. They've soared from $12 million to $21 million in revenue but hit a ceiling they couldn't crack. Discover how embracing discomfort, making critical personnel shifts, and prioritizing open feedback loops are transforming their journey towards sustainable growth. THE BIG IDEA:  Genuine relationships and efficient operations drive profitability. KEY MOMENTS: [00:00] Started business unintentionally, approaching 27-year anniversary. [03:33] Consistently reinvesting profits for business growth. [08:49] Hosting events boosts company pride and exposure. [12:38] Networking and learning, open-mindedness required. [16:35] Growing complexity creates communication challenges as we scale. [21:45] Open Town Hall; feedback rewarded with cash. [24:23] Encouraging accountability and feedback enhances success. [27:36] Executive Coaching catalyzed new personal growth. [28:50] Supporting and valuing employees as a family. [32:28] GROW: facility tour, team presentation. [36:11] Facility is efficient due to thoughtful design. QUESTIONS WE ANSWER What are effective strategies for growing a landscaping business? How can town hall meetings improve company culture and communication? How do you set and achieve financial goals in a small business? What are the benefits of attending industry events for small businesses? What are the key challenges in scaling a landscaping company? How important is feedback for business growth and development? What are the best practices for reinvesting profits in a business? How can middle managers and frontline staff benefit from educational events? Why is personal and professional growth crucial for business leaders?  

Is your landscaping business thriving, or just surviving? On this episode of "Roots of Success," join Tommy Cole as he uncovers the gameplay behind building and growing a successful landscape company with Ross Day from Oasis Landscape. Learn how meticulous budget management, innovative enhancement sales, and the power of strong relationships transform the bottom line. Ross shares his career journey from a teenage lawn-mower to VP, spilling secrets on leveraging culture, balancing residential and commercial clients, and executing strategic growth through small acquisitions. Don't miss Ross's indispensable advice for navigating challenges and fostering a supportive, profitable business environment. THE BIG IDEA:  Genuine relationships and efficient operations drive profitability. KEY MOMENTS: [03:00] Ross's early landscaping career and industry lessons. [06:45] Tommy debunks the myth of maintenance being unprofitable. [11:15] Strategies for managing team budgets and tracking hours. [15:55] Discussing cost-efficiency adjustments with clients. [20:40] A story of personal support from a friend in hard times. [25:25] Impact of small acts of kindness on client relationships. [30:50] Challenges in uniting diverse team members at a new branch. [36:30] Importance of on-site visits to maintain company culture. [42:15] Balancing residential and commercial projects. QUESTIONS WE ANSWER How can landscaping companies increase profitability? What are the best strategies for managing a landscaping business budget? How important are customer relationships in the landscaping industry? What are effective ways to build a positive company culture in a landscaping business? How do you manage multiple branches in a service-based company? What are the benefits of offering maintenance services in landscaping? How to balance residential and commercial landscaping clients? What are some successful strategies for customer retention in landscaping? How can small landscaping businesses grow through acquisitions? What techniques can landscaping companies use to improve efficiency and reduce waste?  

Ready to Level Up Your Landscaping Company? Here's the Secret: It's Not a Degree. Join us on "Roots of Success" as Melissa Blake from Bates Landscaping reveals how hands-on experience and continuous learning can catapult your business ahead of the competition. Host Tommy Cole and Melissa engage in a spirited discussion on the value of fieldwork, the importance of charging for design services, and crafting a bulletproof business development strategy. This episode is packed with practical insights for landscape company owners and executives looking to elevate their business to new heights. THE BIG IDEA:  Continuous learning ensures success. KEY MOMENTS: [00:00] Early Work in horticulture. [03:04] Loved tree climbing; became a climbing arborist. [08:28] Manually created custom garden designs for clients. [10:10] Professional services require compensation for expertise. [13:34] Understand your ideal customer to set expectations. [16:34] Uncover customer's needs to tailor solutions. [22:10] Design phase is a long; thorough, flexible process. [25:33] Always learn, work smart, be patient, start small. [26:45] Internship, odd jobs, real-world lessons, degree irrelevant. [31:55] Spoke truthfully at college, wasn't reinvited. [33:30] Never stop learning; avoid becoming stagnant. QUESTIONS WE ANSWER What are the benefits of pursuing a career in landscaping? How can hands-on trade skills lead to financial success? What is the importance of continuous learning in the landscaping industry? How do landscape designers work with clients to create outdoor spaces? Why is it important to charge for landscape design services? What is the role of a landscape designer in transforming outdoor living spaces? How can using social media like Pinterest assist in landscape design?