The Green Grind Podcast

In this episode of The Green Grind, Kory and LeRoy sit down with Bob Scott, owner of Lowe’s Greenhouse in Bainbridge, Ohio. Bob shares how he and his partner transitioned from running a small landscape design/build company to acquiring a third-generation greenhouse and garden center. The conversation dives deep into the complexities and opportunities of vertical integration in the green industry — from growing and selling plants to running retail, landscaping, floral, and greenhouse operations all under one roof. Bob explains the pros and cons of owning the supply chain, the challenges of managing diverse departments, and the lessons learned from growing the team from 12 to 65 employees. Listeners will also hear about navigating retail trends, balancing overhead with efficiency, and building a resilient business model where multiple departments support one another. Whether you’re running a small landscape crew or leading a multi-division operation, Bob’s insights on leadership, systems, and customer experience will spark ideas for growth. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard  

In this episode, Kory and LeRoy welcome Kirstin Mains back to The Green Grind to dive deep into one of the most important topics for any business owner: getting out of your own way. Fresh off their trip to the Landscaper event in Charlotte, the crew unpacks why so many owners become the bottleneck in their business and how to fix it. They discuss building systems that scale, empowering team members to take ownership, and focusing on vision over chaos. You’ll also hear about the new AI tools being developed for the green industry, the importance of setting short- and long-term goals, and how sharing your vision with your team can transform company culture. Whether you’re running a $250k business or a $5M one, this episode is packed with practical advice on breaking free from control-freak tendencies, reducing burnout, and leading your team toward growth. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard Join 800 landscapers at the LeanScaper Finance Intensive in Dallas, Sept. 15–16, and build a three year plan with AI, robotics, and smart investments to scale profits and increase your company's value. https://leanscaper.com/financial-blueprint-intensive?utm_source=apple_podcasts&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=event_promotion&utm_content=TheGreenGrindPodcast_finance_intensive

In this episode, Kory and LeRoy sit down with Aaron Suttenfield, founder of A&D Suttenfield Landscaping, to explore the role of faith, family, and values in building a successful business from the ground up. Aaron shares his journey—from mowing grass in high school to leading a full-service landscape company—and how staying true to his principles has shaped every part of his business. With a strong focus on customer service, employee relationships, and doing the right thing (even when it’s hard), Aaron explains how he built a business that reflects more than just financial goals. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard Join 800 landscapers at the LeanScaper Finance Intensive in Dallas, Sept. 15–16, and build a three year plan with AI, robotics, and smart investments to scale profits and increase your company's value. https://leanscaper.com/financial-blueprint-intensive?utm_source=apple_podcasts&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=event_promotion&utm_content=TheGreenGrindPodcast_finance_intensive

In this episode, Kory and LeRoy are joined by Adam Fullerton, a marketing strategist and creative agency owner who helps service-based businesses cut through the noise and actually connect with customers. Adam breaks down what most companies get wrong about marketing—and how to fix it. From storytelling and brand consistency to knowing your audience and crafting the right message, Adam offers practical strategies you can apply right now to grow your business the smart way. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard Join 800 landscapers at the LeanScaper Finance Intensive in Dallas, Sept. 15–16, and build a three year plan with AI, robotics, and smart investments to scale profits and increase your company's value. https://leanscaper.com/financial-blueprint-intensive?utm_source=apple_podcasts&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=event_promotion&utm_content=TheGreenGrindPodcast_finance_intensive

In this episode, Kory and LeRoy sit down with Eric Hill, a driven entrepreneur who has built his landscaping business through grit, vision, and relentless focus on relationships. Eric shares the real story behind starting small, facing setbacks, and pushing through the challenges of growing a company in a competitive industry. From developing leadership skills to creating a culture that values people, Eric’s journey is packed with lessons on resilience, growth, and staying grounded through it all. He also highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with the right team, adapting to industry changes, and leading with integrity. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

For his fourth appearance on The Green Grind, Kory and LeRoy welcome back Sam Gembel, co-owner of Atlas Outdoor, to dive into the strategic side of scaling a landscaping business—with purpose. Sam shares how focusing on leadership, culture, and communication has transformed both client experiences and team performance. From hiring with intention to creating clear SOPs (standard operating procedures), he explains how structure, consistency, and accountability have propelled Atlas Outdoor to the next level. If you’re a business owner looking for more than the usual hustle-and-grind narrative, this conversation offers a fresh, sustainable perspective on what real success looks like. Free Trial + 20% Off Jobber for 6 Months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a Website? Use code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1: greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard  

Kory and Leroy are joined by Derek Lines, CEO of Showtime Homes, to dive into what makes his business—and his leadership—stand out in a crowded market. From pounding nails on a framing crew to creating a culture-driven custom home building company, Derek breaks down the mindset, mistakes, and momentum that fueled his journey. He shares how emotional intelligence, brand energy, and hard conversations are key to building lasting client relationships and an all-in team. This episode is packed with leadership gold: how to develop a standout brand, inspire loyalty in employees, own your mistakes, and still love your business years later. Whether you’re in landscaping, construction, or any service industry, Derek's story will give you a blueprint for doing things different—and better. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

In this powerful episode, Kory and Leroy welcome back Jonathan Guinipero, owner of Stateline Landscaping in Massachusetts. After appearing on the show in 2022, Jonathan returns with a raw, honest look at how downsizing his business nearly cost him everything—including his marriage and family time. Jonathan shares how he went from feeling "comfortable" with just two employees to realizing he was simply stuck in survival mode. He opens up about the emotional toll, the wake-up call that changed everything, and how hiring a business coach helped him rebuild his company and personal life. This is a must-listen for any entrepreneur questioning their path, searching for clarity, or needing motivation to make real change. If you’re in the trenches, trying to grow a business without losing yourself in the process—this one’s for you. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

In this unscripted and insightful episode of The Green Grind Podcast, hosts Kory Ballard and LeRoy Mains sit down for a candid conversation about business growth, facility upgrades, leadership standards, and long-term planning. LeRoy shares the story behind Brilliant Borders' new facility—why they built it, the impact on team culture, and the operational challenges that came with expansion. They also dive into the hidden costs of scaling, the power of consistent expectations, and the mindset shifts that help sustain growth. Whether you're in year one or twenty of your business journey, this episode is packed with real talk, lessons learned, and forward-thinking strategies that every green industry entrepreneur can relate to. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

At just 22, Brenden Beal is building something big with Beals Lawn Services in Columbus, OH. From mowing 80 properties solo to running full-time crews and managing HOAs, Brenden shares the real story behind scaling quickly, learning hard lessons, and course-correcting for long-term success. He talks about pricing mistakes, the challenges of hiring friends, and how discipline, honesty, and leadership have reshaped his business in 2025. Whether you're just getting started or ready to grow, this one's packed with practical insight. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

In this special episode of The Green Grind, hosts Kory and LeRoy sit down with a very special guest—LeRoy’s wife, Kirstin Mains. Kirstin is more than just a partner at home—she’s the original brains behind Brilliant Borders Landscaping. From a bold decision to buy a weekend curbing business off a neighbor to growing it into a full-scale landscaping operation, Kirstin shares her unique entrepreneurial journey. You’ll hear how she went from hands-on curb installation to managing crews, balancing family life, and stepping in and out of the business as it evolved. Kirstin opens up about working alongside her husband, the power struggles and personal growth that came with it, and how clearly defined roles—and a whole lot of grit—helped the company thrive. This episode offers real insight into running a family business, navigating leadership as a couple, and what it truly takes to build something from the ground up. Whether you're a husband-wife team or just building your dream, this one’s packed with honest lessons and inspiration. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

In this episode, Kory and LeRoy sit down with Denver, the founder of Legacy Land Pros in Northeast Ohio. Denver’s journey started with a push mower and a dream—and just a few years later, he’s running a thriving landscape and maintenance company with 25+ employees and a plan for regional expansion. He breaks down how he scaled fast, why mentorship changed the game, and what it takes to build a business that creates real careers—not just jobs. You’ll hear about the growing pains, mindset shifts, and operational strategies that took Legacy from weekends and worn-out mowers to a year-round, multi-crew powerhouse. Whether you're cutting your first lawn or managing your first million, this one’s packed with insight, honesty, and hard-earned advice from a guy still in the trenches. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

In Episode 222 of The Green Grind Podcast, hosts Leroy and Kory sit down with Mike Garcia, owner of Electric Lawn Scapes in Kansas City, Missouri. Mike shares how he went from being an A-player at a traditional landscape company to launching his own innovative, all-electric lawn care business. Tune in to hear about the unique challenges and benefits of going electric, how Mike’s vision is shaping sustainable landscaping, and why staying bored was never an option. This is a must-listen for anyone thinking about leveling up their green game! Powered by Jobber and Protiv!  Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

Welcome back to The Green Grind Podcast! In this episode of The Green Grind, Kory and LeRoy sit down with Adam Jones, owner of Warren Lawns based in Central Iowa. Adam shares how he transitioned from full-time ministry to launching his lawn care company with a focus on fertilization, weed and pest control. He explains how staying focused, keeping things simple, and delivering exceptional customer experience helped him grow a successful business without getting distracted by every opportunity that came his way. From building a brand known for top-tier service to navigating the noise of social media advice, Adam delivers real, relatable insight for anyone trying to grow their company with purpose. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale smart, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on focus, execution, and long-term thinking. Powered by Jobber and Protiv!  Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

This week on The Green Grind, Kory and LeRoy welcome back Jonas Olson, founder of Turf Badger, for a powerful follow-up to his original episode (#216). Since his last appearance, Jonas has taken Turf Badger to the next level—expanding to 15 corporately owned locations across five states, all without franchising. Jonas shares why he stepped away from the franchise model, the systems and training programs that fuel his company’s explosive growth, and how building strong internal leaders has allowed him to scale fast while maintaining control. The guys also dig into mental toughness, long-term vision, and the daily discipline required to grow a winning culture. Whether you’re running a single crew or dreaming of multi-location success, this episode is packed with real talk and actionable advice from a guy who’s walking the walk. Powered by Jobber and Protiv!  Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

This week on The Green Grind Podcast, Kory and LeRoy are flying solo with no guest — just real talk and a few springtime rants. The guys dive into what they're seeing and hearing in the green industry as the busy season kicks off. From labor challenges and process breakdowns to the common trap of taking on jobs outside your wheelhouse, they share hard-earned lessons and honest insights about running a successful business without burning out. If you've ever felt stretched too thin or tempted to say “yes” to the wrong work, this one’s for you. Powered by Jobber and Protiv!  Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

In this week’s episode, Kory and LeRoy sit down with Chad Ofiara, Brand Manager for Ferris at Briggs & Stratton. Chad shares his journey into the green industry and how he found his way to one of the most respected names in commercial mowing. He gives us a look behind the curtain at the history of Ferris, and dives into the innovative marketing and branding strategies his team has rolled out to elevate the brand. From new products to emerging trends in the mower space, Chad brings high-level insight into where the industry is headed and what professionals should keep an eye on. Whether you're a longtime Ferris fan or just curious about what’s next in commercial mowing, this episode is packed with valuable info you won’t want to miss. Powered by Jobber and Protiv!  Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

Welcome back to another episode of The Green Grind Podcast! This week, Kory and LeRoy sit down with Harlan Jones, the proud owner of Jones Property Maintenance. Harlan shares his inspiring journey into the green industry—starting from humble beginnings in door-to-door sales for Comcast to launching his own lawn care business from the ground up. He’s the definition of hustle and perseverance, and his story is packed with real-world lessons and takeaways. Tune in as Harlan talks about the challenges he faced, the strategies that helped him grow, and how he built Jones Property Maintenance into a million-dollar operation. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to scale, this episode is full of valuable insights you won’t want to miss. Powered by Jobber and Protiv!  Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

In this week’s episode, Kory and LeRoy sit down with a very special guest — Kory’s wife and the CEO of Ballard Inc., Lindsay Ballard. Lindsay shares the inspiring story behind the conception of Ballard Products, from the early days of juggling a career at Perficut to going all-in on the business alongside Kory. Several years later, Ballard Inc. has grown beyond what either of them imagined. Tune in as Lindsay opens up about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, what it’s really like to build a business with your spouse, and how she and Kory have evolved together both professionally and personally. It’s an honest, motivating conversation you won’t want to miss. Powered by Jobber and Protiv!  Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

In this episode of The Green Grind Podcast, Kory and LeRoy sit down with Jacob Bennett from Pennsylvania, a former full-time teacher who took a bold leap to turn his lawn care side hustle into a full-time business. Jacob shares the story behind his transition, the decision to partner up, and how that arrangement has shaped the day-to-day operations of his growing company. The guys dive into the pros and cons of having a business partner, how responsibilities are delegated, and what’s worked (and what hasn’t). Jacob also runs a local supply yard, and the crew talks through how to structure and balance multiple businesses for long-term success. Whether you're considering leaving your 9-to-5 or navigating a business partnership, this episode is packed with real-world insight you don’t want to miss. Powered by Jobber and Protiv!  Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard