The Pond Digger Podcast

Today's episode features Chris Clever, the President of Hikari Sales USA, and Eric Triplett discussing the subject of aquatic fish food and fish husbandry. Clever asserts that most fish foods prioritize marketing over nutritional research, contrasting this with Hikari's extensive research and development process, which can take years and includes a dedicated research lab in Japan. The discussion explains how poor-quality food impacts fish health and water quality due to undigested waste and also covers the importance of feeding frequency, proper pellet size, and the company's preference for frozen food supplements over live foods due to contamination risks. Furthermore, Clever provides a brief history of the Hikari brand, which originated in the late 1800s by raising carp as food fish, and highlights the Saki-Hikari line as a top innovation featuring beneficial probiotics. Key Takeaways: Prioritize food based on nutritional research and scientific development rather than focusing only on marketing stories. Feed fish small amounts of food multiple times throughout the day to maintain an optimized metabolism. Select the smallest size pellet your fish will accept to increase the surface area available for digestion. Avoid mixing different brands of fish food, as this disrupts the carefully balanced nutritional profile of a quality diet. Invest in both a high-quality fish food and an effective water conditioner to reduce long-term maintenance issues and enjoy your hobby more. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products CORAL—The Reef & Marine Aquarium Magazine Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Hikari Fish Food Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) EQUIP (Oct. 22 -24, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Eric shares a weekly accountability call within his contractor power circle, where the participants discuss strategies for personal and professional improvement. The primary theme revolves around making it "hard to lose" by setting up systems for success in areas like health, business operations, and financial stability. Participants share personal anecdotes, such as preparing for a dog Halloween costume contest and struggling with client negotiations on job bids, before Eric introduces the core concept of minimizing failure through proactive preparation. Key strategies discussed for contractors include time blocking, refining the sales process to ensure proper job bidding, and utilizing an accountability group for support, with special attention given to the challenges of addressing uncomfortable client conversations and improving cash flow. Key Takeaways: Set up your environment, such as your kitchen or workspace, to make losing or failing difficult. Implement time blocking to dedicate necessary time to health, training, and professional development. Choose your peer group wisely by spending time with people who motivate you to continuously improve and succeed. Improve your follow-through by verbalizing your goals to friends or peers for accountability. Regularly refine your core processes and systems to maximize efficiency and guarantee consistent winning. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products CORAL—The Reef & Marine Aquarium Magazine Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Hikari Fish Food Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) EQUIP (Oct. 22 -24, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Antonio Gutierrez of Vivid Creative Aquatics joins Eric discussing the Random Flow Generator (RFG) nozzle, a product designed to create non-laminar, turbulent, and natural water flow in enclosed systems like aquariums and ponds. The conversation highlights the counterintuitive nature of the product's function, often leading to user disbelief until they see it in action, which is facilitated by its unique, non-mechanical internal design. Gutierrez explains that the RFG works by generating pressure imbalances that result in randomized directional pulses of water, unlike traditional directional nozzles, and notes that the product, which is manufactured using 3D printing, can effectively replace multiple traditional powerheads in a reef tank. The discussion also touches on the potential applications of the technology in different environments, such as ponds and specialized reptile enclosures, where natural circulation is beneficial for the health of fish and other organisms. Key Takeaways: Prioritize creating natural, turbulent water movement in your aquatic systems to mimic ocean or river environments. Focus on providing random, varied flow to encourage fish to swim and forage naturally, instead of hiding in calm areas. Utilize randomized flow patterns to keep debris suspended, reducing the frequency of cleaning needed in tanks or ponds. Understand that achieving proper water circulation can be more critical to coral and aquatic life health than maximizing light intensity alone. Choose advanced flow devices that operate without internal moving mechanical parts to prevent equipment failure and rust. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products CORAL—The Reef & Marine Aquarium Magazine Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Hikari Fish Food Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) EQUIP (Oct. 22 -24, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Today Eric shares a sales training session focused on improving discovery calls. He proposes a new approach, inspired by a clip from Charlie Kirk, that suggests starting sales conversations by asking the client to share their story regarding the project or problem, which he believes will lead to the customer's true motive faster. The speakers engage in role-playing scenarios—including one about fixing a pond liner leak and another about installing a waterfall—to test the efficacy of this "story" approach versus conventional questioning, with much of the discussion centering on active listening, cadence, and the importance of recaps and addressing the customer's emotions. The overall goal of the proposed technique is to increase efficiency and save time during the sales process. Key Takeaways: Initiate interactions by asking for the customer's story to quickly understand their motive and context. Focus on efficiency to save minutes during interactions, as these saved minutes accumulate into larger gains. Redirect overly lengthy conversations by stating you need to slow down to take notes and ensure you can properly address their needs. Perform consistent practice and role-playing to refine your skills and improve performance in real-world scenarios. Always recap discussions by including the client's emotional motive and story, not just the scope of work. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) EQUIP (Oct. 22 -24, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Eric interviews Eric Cohen, a long-time figure in the aquarium industry, where he discusses his career evolution and current businesses, Blue Life USA and tankstop.com. Cohen details his early role as the second person to import live rock from Fiji to the US in the mid-1980s, sharing an anecdote about the first importer who went to jail for drug dealing. He explains how he co-founded Sea Dwelling Creatures in 1992, running it for 25 years before selling it in 2016 due to burnout and family health issues, driven by his growing focus on conservation. Cohen also discusses his re-entry into the livestock trade through tankstop.com, focusing on sustainable practices like importing real live rock from Australia and selling proprietary products through Blue Life USA, including the successful algae remedy Flux RX. Key Takeaways: Be ready to seize unexpected business opportunities, even in the early stages of your professional life. Recognize the seasonal changes in life and be willing to step away from a demanding business due to burnout or family needs. Cultivate a spiritual or devotional practice, such as Bhakti Yoga, to help stay grounded and manage your ego. Provide exceptional and personalized customer service to ensure interactions remain enjoyable and keep people involved in the hobby. Embrace new passions, like e-mountain biking, to find physical activity and enjoyment later in life. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) EQUIP (Oct. 22 -24, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Today we are sharing a coaching session where Eric discusses the concept of "polite lies" in the context of sales, particularly for contractors. These lies, such as "let me think about it" or "I need to talk to my wife," are presented as symptoms of poor communication and a lack of trust or perceived value created by the salesperson. Eric emphasizes that contractors often fail to secure a deal because they talk too much, do not listen effectively, or do not build an adequate emotional connection with the prospect, leading to uncertainty and the prospect's polite evasion. The conversation highlights the value of consistent training and self-awareness to correct these mistakes, with participants sharing personal stories to illustrate how improved communication techniques, such as asking open-ended questions and prioritizing listening, can successfully "flip the script" and close sales. Key Takeaways:  Prioritize listening more than speaking to effectively address the other person's uncertainties. Use any polite lies you hear as a gauge indicating that you need to work on your communication and self-awareness. Clearly outline processes and procedures so that others gain clarity on what comes next. Help others create urgency by asking them about the consequences of delaying their decision or project. Build genuine connections by allowing people to talk and share their stories rather than boasting about your awards or history. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) EQUIP (Oct. 22 -24, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Eric speaks with Shawn Hale, who is associated with the aquatic and coral hobby through ventures like Reef Builders, Reef Therapy, and the Reefstock show. The conversation begins with a discussion of Hale's multitasking lifestyle and previous experiences working multiple jobs to pay for school, contrasting this with the current challenges of managing his various professional commitments. A significant portion of the interview focuses on the Reeftock event in Las Vegas, with Hale discussing the marketing difficulties and lower-than-expected attendance for the inaugural show, while maintaining an optimistic outlook for its future. Hale also shares the emotional backstory of acquiring Reef Builders after the passing of its original founder, Jake Adams, and explains the platform's mission to provide diverse content—articles, videos, and podcasts—to educate and appeal to the broad reef-keeping community.  Key Takeaways: Dedicate yourself fully to your goals by accepting long hours and putting in the initial necessary grind. Always maintain an optimistic and positive mindset to maximize every opportunity, regardless of immediate circumstances. Be authentic in your personal and professional life and focus on being yourself instead of trying to imitate others. Analyze your mistakes and proactively plan projects, ensuring you allocate sufficient time and awareness for success. Maintain independence and credibility by diversifying your support structure rather than relying too heavily on any single source of influence. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Today's episode is an interview with Ben, the owner of BSA Corals, focusing on his extensive experience and passion for the coral farming and collecting hobby. Ben, who has been in the aquarium business for over two decades, discusses his addiction to collecting high-quality corals and his strategy of sourcing directly from suppliers in places like Bali, emphasizing his preference for the "best stuff" rather than dealing with lower-grade specimens. The conversation covers the transition in the reef hobby from predominantly wild-caught organisms to modern aquaculture and mariculture practices, the use of nano reef tanks for portability, and the day-to-day operations of his 1,700-square-foot facility in Scottsdale, Arizona, which focuses heavily on propagating species like Eanthophilia. Key Takeaways: Prioritize quality in your endeavors, even if it means paying a little bit more for the best results. Cultivate a deep addiction or passion for your interests, as this drives superior results. Develop your visual intuition to understand the health and needs of a system without constant high-tech testing. Focus on propagation and growth to ensure you can keep resources for yourself while sharing success with others. Recognize that stability is key, as a good ecosystem allows things to be hardy and resilient to shifts. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Eric focuses on the concept of the "one degree of correction," emphasizing that small, consistent adjustments lead to significant long-term results in both business and personal life. The discussion centers on the importance of tracking and visibility to identify issues, drawing parallels between steering an airplane off course by one degree and the cumulative effects of minor deviations in areas like caloric intake or construction project management. The latter half of the conversation features participants sharing personal struggles and strategies related to balancing entrepreneurial work with family time, highlighting the necessity of setting boundaries and prioritizing personal well-being to achieve overall success and avoid regret. Key Takeaways: Consistently make small, one-degree course corrections to maintain your desired life trajectory. Clearly identify the destination you want to reach, or you will end up simply drifting. Stop guessing about key areas in your business or health and start tracking the important details for accuracy. Do not attempt to solve all problems simultaneously; instead, focus on correcting the one issue causing the most friction or time loss. Set aside intentional time for personal happiness and family, establishing hard limits that prioritize these important areas. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Eric shares a "Weekly Compass" call, which serves as a business and personal development training session, emphasizing that "minutes equal money and mountains." He discusses the importance of tracking time, reducing workplace inefficiencies, and the cumulative impact of small, consistent actions in both business and personal growth. Examples range from calculating the financial cost of wasted time during meetings to highlighting participants' positive transformations in health and business success through daily, incremental improvements, or "the slight edge." The discussion also touches on the challenges of leadership, delegation, and maintaining personal well-being while striving for professional ascension. Key Takeaways: Manage your minutes vigilantly to ensure they accumulate into wealth, not overwhelming problems. Incorporate small, consistent daily training moments to ensure deep, long-lasting growth. Strive for ascension in every activity, as every moment is either moving you toward growth or decline. Direct your attention toward educational content that furthers your goals rather than noise that creates frustration. If struggling or feeling self-sabotage, reset by returning to a simple, locked-in diet and prioritizing sufficient rest. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Eric Triplet, and his guest, Tyson Matias, are focusing on pond maintenance and filtration. Triplet introduces The Clearwater Guarantee Experience segment, which highlights the Atlantic Oase product line and their promise of clear water if customers follow their program. The bulk of the discussion centers on Matias's personal experience with improving his backyard pond, specifically after Eric pointed out the presence of particulates despite the pond’s meticulous design. Tyson recounts the year-long delay in installing the recommended FiltoClear pressure filter and his eventual satisfaction when the new system, which aids in removing solids, achieved crystal-clear water within three days. The conversation also touches on the three key aspects of achieving clear pond water: removing solids, biological filtration, and using a UV system to kill single-cell algae. Key Takeaways: Establish a clear path to correction before attempting to fix a problem. Use a simple mason jar test to diagnose the specific particulates floating in your water. Apply constructive pessimism to identify flaws and continuously make things better. Hide necessary but unsightly equipment using creativity, such as fake rocks or strategically placed plants. Implement the three essential phases of clear water maintenance: removing solids, biological filtration, and UV exposure. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Today's episode focuses on the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk, which Eric and participants express sadness and distress over, tying the event to broader societal issues like the decline of free speech and civil discourse. Triplett emphasizes that the conversation is not political but rather focuses on the values Kirk stood for, such as logic, integrity, gratitude, and clear communication, applying these lessons to their audience of contractors and business leaders. Other participants share their emotional struggles, condemn the violence, and discuss the need for empathy, listening, and leading with core values like family and faith in response to traumatic events. Key Takeaways: Practice clear thinking and use logic instead of defaulting to outrage. Cultivate civil discourse by listening more and seeking to understand opposing viewpoints with empathy. Guard your words, speak with precision, and avoid gossip or name-calling. Lead with core values like gratitude, honesty, respect, and integrity in all aspects of your life. Spend more dedicated time with your family and loved ones. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

This episode explores the concept of a "triple threat" across various aspects of life, including sports, music, business, sales, personal growth, family, and health. Eric and Tyson discuss how excelling in three key areas defines a standout individual or entity. For instance, in baseball, a triple crown hitter masters home runs, RBIs, and stolen bases, while a successful band needs lyrics, stage presence, and captivating musicality. The conversation emphasizes that identifying and cultivating these three crucial elements can lead to greater success and a more well-rounded approach in any endeavor. Key Takeaways: Apply the triple threat concept to your passions and life goals, recognizing that good things often happen in threes and lead to balance and completeness. Cultivate a strong mindset, rigorous discipline, and positive habits to foster continuous personal growth. Prioritize your family by being present, showing love and attention, and dedicating quality time. Achieve optimal health through balanced nutrition, consistent physical training, and adequate recovery or sleep. Approach sales and personal interactions with empathy, educational value, and clear communication to serve others effectively and build trust. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Today's lively discussion is primarily focusing on the concept of assertiveness. Eric and his guests share personal anecdotes, including one individual's significant weight loss journey achieved through healthy eating, and another's experience meeting renowned entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk. A significant portion of the conversation explores the nuances of assertiveness in various contexts, particularly in sales and client interactions, distinguishing it from aggression or passivity. The group further illustrates assertiveness through a humorous story about a difficult client and also mentions the qualities that billionaires share, as described by a coach. Key Takeaways: Understand that assertiveness is about confident self-expression, not aggression or being pushy. Actively seek out and place yourself in positions that offer learning and opportunity. Communicate clearly and confidently to establish certainty and efficiently manage time for all parties. Challenge any negative beliefs you hold about being assertive, recognizing its positive impact on your life and interactions. Avoid making assumptions about others' capabilities and instead, confidently present all available options. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Today Eric explores the concept of life expectancy, applying it to both personal well-being and business longevity. He shares anecdotes about active older adults, prompting reflection on quality of life and the importance of proactive health choices. A significant portion focuses on the survival rate of construction businesses, highlighting the high failure rate and urging contractors to invest in training, accountability, and strategic business design for profit and freedom. The discussion emphasizes that expectations in life and business evolve, and continuous effort, learning, and adaptability are crucial for thriving rather than merely surviving. Key Takeaways: Prioritize your health by training harder, eating better, and making conscious lifestyle choices daily. Invest in continuous personal and professional development through training, mentorship, and engagement with peer groups. Cultivate an accountability network by sharing your goals and discussing progress with supportive individuals. Design your business and personal life for freedom and profit, ensuring your efforts lead to desired long-term outcomes. Make deliberate, positive choices every day, as these consistent small decisions determine your future quality of life. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Today's episode explores the concept of value creation versus simply trading time for money. Eric Triplet and Tyson Matias, use anecdotes, such as a prolonged refrigerator repair and a quick, high-value mural installation, to illustrate that the market rewards skill, efficiency, and problem-solving, not just the duration of work. They discuss how mindset, continuous self-improvement, and a focus on providing greater value lead to significantly different financial outcomes and overall life satisfaction, even for individuals working the same number of hours. The conversation also touches on entitlement, the importance of setting goals, and the "multiplier effect" of investing in one's skills and actively seeking opportunities to enhance one's contribution. Ultimately, they advocate for passion, consistent effort, and a desire to "level up" in all aspects of life, not just in leisure activities. Key Takeaways: Prioritize creating value over simply putting in hours to earn more and live an extraordinary life. Consistently sharpen your skills, seek continuous education, and find more efficient ways to solve problems. Make deliberate financial choices and set clear personal goals to build assets and improve your quality of life. Be proactive, prepared, and seize opportunities when they arise, always following through with momentum. Strive to align your work with what you love and excel at, continually seeking to "level up" in all aspects of your life. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Today's episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at a pond construction business, focusing on company culture, employee training, and the daily realities of the work. Eric interviews Israel Rodriguez, a long-term employee, about his initial hiring, his temporary departure and return, and his experiences within the company. The discussion highlights the challenges and rewards of physical labor, the importance of teamwork, and the unique satisfaction of building water features for clients. Eric and other team members also share personal anecdotes, emphasizing the close-knit, supportive environment despite the demanding nature of the job. Key Takeaways: Cultivate a strong work ethic and persevere through challenges with dedication. Seek work that offers personal fulfillment and allows you to make a positive impact on others. Learn to compartmentalize personal issues and focus on your responsibilities at work. Actively pursue opportunities for self-improvement and demonstrate your capabilities consistently. Understand and value the different personality types within your team to foster a balanced and effective environment. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Today, Eric explores the concepts of attraction versus chasing in business and personal interactions, emphasizing the importance of authentic self-expression to draw in desired connections. The speaker shares insights from figures like Gary Vaynerchuk, highlighting the shift from "social media" to "interest media," where sharing passions beyond one's core business can attract a wider, more engaged audience. This approach suggests that genuine interests, even seemingly unrelated ones, can resonate with high-value clients who share similar lifestyle choices and financial capabilities. Ultimately, the discussion advocates for a strategy of being extraordinary and authentic to naturally attract opportunities, rather than aggressively pursuing them. Key Takeaways: Prioritize attracting opportunities and clients by being genuine and extraordinary rather than aggressively chasing them. Share your authentic passions and interests, as these can attract a valuable audience for your business, even if not directly related to your core service. Present yourself with confidence, politeness, and a professional demeanor to naturally draw in desired connections and clients. Utilize interest-based media by showcasing your whole self and diverse passions, knowing that shared interests can lead to business opportunities. Embrace a mindset of unwavering persistence and continuously learn from your mistakes to improve and achieve your goals. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

Today Eric emphasizes the crucial role of professionalism and word choice in sales interactions. He argues that just as one wouldn't appear in unprofessional attire for an in-person meeting, using inappropriate language or slang is equally detrimental to a client's perception. The episode provides numerous examples of unacceptable vocabulary in sales, such as "cost," "problem," "cheap," "try," or "part ways," contrasting them with more effective alternatives like "investment," "challenge," "cost-effective," "experience," and "agreement." The overarching message is that every word contributes to the client's perception of trustworthiness and competence, underscoring the importance of thoughtful communication in sales presentations and discovery calls.  Key Takeaways: Always dress professionally for sales consultations to convey respect and seriousness. Refrain from using profanity, locker room talk, or casual slang in professional interactions. Choose positive and professional vocabulary, such as "investment" instead of "cost" and "challenge" instead of "problem." Frame your sales approach as a service or presentation aimed at helping clients, rather than merely "pitching." Be mindful that every word you use shapes the client's perception and can either build trust or create resistance. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok

This podcast discussion introduces the Enneagram, a personality typing system that categorizes individuals into nine core motivations, often grouped into three triads based on dominant emotions: anger (body types 8, 9, 1), shame/attention (heart types 2, 3, 4), and fear/anxiety (head types 5, 6, 7). Eric and Jess share personal anecdotes about how understanding their own and others' Enneagram types has profoundly improved their relationships and communication, highlighting the system's ability to offer empathy and insight into underlying motivations rather than just observable behaviors. They also touch upon the practical applications of the Enneagram in business, emphasizing its utility as a tool for better understanding clients and employees and fostering healthier interactions, while cautioning against its misuse for manipulation. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the Enneagram's value in promoting self-awareness and personal growth, allowing individuals to recognize their strengths and become their "healthiest selves." Key Takeaways: Begin by identifying your own Enneagram type to gain a profound understanding of your core motivations and inner world. Use the Enneagram to improve communication and build deeper connections with your family and friends by understanding their underlying motivations. Apply Enneagram insights to your professional life to better connect with and motivate employees, clients, and prospects. Recognize that giving language to your motivations provides you with greater control over your emotional life and how you respond to the world. Cultivate greater empathy for others by understanding the fundamental drivers behind their behaviors, leading to stronger, more meaningful relationships. 🔗 Links and Resources Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets Book a Call with Eric Triplett  Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger Helix Pond Filtration EasyPro Pond Products Atlantic-Oase Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips  Pond Trade Magazine Events & Communities 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY) TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) Social Media The Pond Digger on Instagram The Pond Digger on Facebook Train With Triplett on TikTok