Snow Talk with SIMA

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.

We're in the middle of renewal and sales season for winter services. Ramblin Jackson's Jack Jostes joins Snow Talk to discuss how to make it a successful one. Listen for these tips and more:Renewals present challenges such as changes in point of contact and changes in snowfall, requiring proactive communication and customer feedback throughout the year.Identifying 'hell yes' customers involves understanding demand, profitability, and passion, and tailoring marketing and sales strategies to attract and retain these ideal clients.The RFP process benefits from clear definitions and exacting language, fostering trust and understanding between contractors and clients.Maintaining relationships with clients throughout the year, not just during the renewal process, is crucial for successful sales and renewals.

East Coast Facilities' Joshua Brecht joins Snow Talk to discuss video content development and marketing in the snow and ice industry. Listen for these tips and more:How video content development and marketing can help elevate the snow and ice industry by showcasing the work, people, and company.It doesn't have to be an expensive endeavor. Start with basic equipment like smartphones and encourage team members to capture and share photos and videos.Build a culture where everyone is involved in creating and sharing content, which can lead to increased team engagement and motivation.

The Grow Group's Vince Torchia and McFarlin Stanford's Jennifer Murray join Snow Talk to share how they counsel landscaping and snow companies to be financially healthy. Listen for this tips and more:Look beyond revenue to include understanding margins and profits.Have enough liquidity to manage through rough patches.Building a "sell"-worthy company.

Colorado Green Pros' David LaFore joins SIMA’s Senior Manager of Membership Evan Newman on the latest episode of Snow Talk to chat about how snow and ice professionals can use technology as a customer service tool. Listen in for these tips and more:Improve customer satisfaction by providing transparency and accountability.Communicate with teams and subcontractors.Enhance customer experiences and streamline business processes.

Earth Development President and CEO Eddy Zakes, CSP and SIMA’s Senior Manager of Membership Evan Newman packed a lot of great points into this episode of Snow Talk. Listen in to hear Zakes’ approach to:Company cultureEducation and personal developmentRecognition and rewardsA deep bench of emerging leadersLeadership authenticity and transparency

Jim Monk of MPS Property Services and Gerald Boot of Boot’s Landscaping in Ontario discuss their advocacy work in establishing a recognized standard for the snow and ice industry, their approach to insurance and more.