

OWNR OPS Podcast
Austin Gray @theownerop
The OWNR OPS Podcast is for land‑clearing and forestry‑mulching owner‑operators who want a real business, not just a busy machine.
If you’ve got at least one real machine and you’re stuck under ~$100k/month, we break down the Price–Pipeline–Playbook OS:
- PRICE – crew‑day math, bids, and minimums
- PIPELINE – Google, Facebook, and follow‑up
- PLAYBOOK – weekly scoreboards, scheduling, hiring
Real numbers, teardown episodes, and simple frameworks you can steal and install.
If you’ve got at least one real machine and you’re stuck under ~$100k/month, we break down the Price–Pipeline–Playbook OS:
- PRICE – crew‑day math, bids, and minimums
- PIPELINE – Google, Facebook, and follow‑up
- PLAYBOOK – weekly scoreboards, scheduling, hiring
Real numbers, teardown episodes, and simple frameworks you can steal and install.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 12, 2024 • 50min
28: EXCAVATION BIDDING OVERVIEW & ORG CHART W/ GARRETT W FROM G&M
Welcome back to the OWNR OPS Podcast! This week, we dive deeper with Garrett Williams, co-owner of G&M Outdoor Services, as he shares invaluable insights from scaling his business to nearly $5 million in revenue. 📙Free Service Startup Playbook To Generate Your First $100k: https://www.ownrops.com/playbook💪Here’s what we cover in this episode:✅Garret’s delegation & organizational structure ✅Excavation Bidding ✅The Power of a Strong Partnership✅Role Clarity & Efficiency✅Their family & Team Dynamics✅SEO and social media growth to elevate G&M’s online presence. If you're looking to scale your business, enhance your organizational structure, or master excavation bidding, this episode is packed with essential advice!Tune in for the full conversation, and don't forget to like, follow, and leave a review if you find the episode valuable! #OwnerOperatorPodcast #BusinessGrowth #Delegation #ExcavationBidding #Teamwork #Entrepreneurship #GNMOutdoorServices #SmallBusiness #ScalingRemember: ✅Work Hard ✅Do Your Best ✅Never Settle For Less🎧 Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify!This episode is brought to you by:📈Home Service Software: Jobber is the all-in-one business management software for service businesses. Get 20% off your first 6 months: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops🌱Grow Your Online Presence: Bear Claw Media provides FB Ads & Content Creation for service & trade business: https://www.gobearclawmedia.com🚀Local SEO: Stryker Digital helps service businesses rank high on Google Search Results: http://stryker-digital.com/?el=oo✉️Weekly Newsletter: Want to get the most actionable tips from this episode?🔔Subscribe for free here: https://www.ownrops.com/newsletter

Apr 6, 2024 • 51min
27: OPTIMIZING CASH FLOW & FREEDOM IN LOCAL SERVICES W/ DAN CRONAUER
Today, I’m joined by Dan Cronauer, a versatile entrepreneur with businesses in pressure washing, Christmas lights, and gyms. In this episode, we dive into his Christmas light business and also touch on his pressure-washing ventures. Dan also shares valuable insights into his approach to business, emphasizing a lifestyle-optimizing mindset. He explains how he balances work and personal life, often mixing productivity with fitness. 📙Free Service Startup Playbook To Generate Your First $100k: https://www.ownrops.com/playbook💪 Here’s what we cover in this episode:✅Dan’s approach to optimizing lifestyle through business.✅Why a simple workspace works better than fancy office setups.✅How Dan balances fitness and work, staying productive while exercising.✅Insights into his Christmas light business and other ventures.✅The importance of staying active for mental clarity and work efficiency.If you enjoy these episodes, make sure to like and subscribe on YouTube! Let us know in the comments who you'd like to see on the show next.#Entrepreneurship #LifestyleBusiness #FitnessAndWork #BusinessTips #BusinessLife #SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #WorkLifeBalanceRemember: ✅Work Hard ✅Do Your Best ✅Never Settle For Less🎧 Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify!This episode is brought to you by:📈Home Service Software: Jobber is the all-in-one business management software for service businesses. Get 20% off your first 6 months: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops🌱Grow Your Online Presence: Bear Claw Media provides FB Ads & Content Creation for service & trade business: https://www.gobearclawmedia.com🚀Local SEO: Stryker Digital helps service businesses rank high on Google Search Results: http://stryker-digital.com/?el=oo✉️Weekly Newsletter: Want to get the most actionable tips from this episode?🔔Subscribe for free here: https://www.ownrops.com/newsletter

Apr 1, 2024 • 1h 8min
26: LEADERSHIP LESSONS FROM A 160TH DIVISION HELICOPTER PILOT W/ CHRIS
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Christian Ruf, a former helicopter pilot with the 160th Division Nightstalkers. Christian is now working on a project called “Uncommon Elite”, where he connects Special Operations forces with successful entrepreneurs for tough group activities that help everyone grow and develop. 📙Free Service Startup Playbook To Generate Your First $100k: https://www.ownrops.com/playbook💪Here’s what we cover in this episode:✅Christian’s story as a helicopter pilot and how he got into coaching and leadership.✅The details of the Uncommon Elite events, where military and business leaders come together to learn and grow.✅How Uncommon Elite started and grew into a community for coaching, accountability, and networking.✅Exciting plans for an Uncommon Elite event in ColoradoThis episode highlights the power of community, leadership, and personal growth. It’s a reminder that, as entrepreneurs, the value of surrounding yourself with the right people and sharing meaningful experiences is key to building lasting connections and thriving in business.#Leadership #EntrepreneurMindset #SpecialOps #EntrepreneurLife #BusinessNetworking #LeadershipJourney #PersonalGrowth #Accountability #BusinessEvents #BusinessCommunityRemember: ✅Work Hard ✅Do Your Best ✅Never Settle For Less🎧 Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify!This episode is brought to you by:📈Home Service Software: Jobber is the all-in-one business management software for service businesses. Get 20% off your first 6 months: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops🌱Grow Your Online Presence: Bear Claw Media provides FB Ads & Content Creation for service & trade business: https://www.gobearclawmedia.com🚀Local SEO: Stryker Digital helps service businesses rank high on Google Search Results: http://stryker-digital.com/?el=oo✉️Weekly Newsletter: Want to get the most actionable tips from this episode?🔔Subscribe for free here: https://www.ownrops.com/newsletter

Mar 22, 2024 • 1h 3min
25: Building an E-Commerce Business and Multiple Ventures with Kriss Bergethon
Welcome back to the channel! In this episode, I sit down with Kriss Bergethon to talk about his journey as an entrepreneur for 21 years and the lessons he has learned along the way. Kriss’s mindset is refreshing and proactive, especially in an environment full of people who are hesitant and quick to discourage new ventures.📙Free Service Startup Playbook To Generate Your First $100k: https://www.ownrops.com/playbook💪Here’s what we cover in this episode:✅Growing an excavation business from $200k - over $2mm✅Generating $15mm / yr from supplement e-com biz✅Buying car washes✅Nuking his tax bill✅Health, longevity, exercise✅Colorado fun (snowboarding / mtn biking)✅And much moreThis episode highlights how Kriss’s proactive attitude has helped him navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.#Entrepreneurship #BusinessJourney #SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #Delegation #BusinessAdvice #ProactiveBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #StartupJourney #BusinessSuccess #MindsetMatters #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #WorkSmart #SmallBizTips #EntrepreneurshipJourney #SuccessMindset🎧 Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify!This episode is brought to you by:📈Home Service Software: Jobber is the all-in-one business management software for service businesses. Get 20% off your first 6 months: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops🌱Grow Your Online Presence: Bear Claw Media provides FB Ads & Content Creation for service & trade business: https://www.gobearclawmedia.com🚀Local SEO: Stryker Digital helps service businesses rank high on Google Search Results: http://stryker-digital.com/?el=oo✉️Weekly Newsletter: Want to get the most actionable tips from this episode?🔔Subscribe for free here: https://www.ownrops.com/newsletter

Mar 15, 2024 • 46min
24: RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE INVESTING WITH SEAN O’DOWD
In today’s episode, I am joined by special guest Sean O’Dowd from Chicago, who operates a residential real estate fund. Sean shares his leadership lessons, morning routines, and the value of networking among entrepreneurs.📙Free Service Startup Playbook To Generate Your First $100k: https://www.ownrops.com/playbook💪Here’s what we cover in this episode:✅The power of networking with entrepreneurs aged 25 to 45 ✅Leadership lessons from two former Navy SEALs✅The significance of the first four minutes of your day and how it impacts productivity.✅The power of mental narratives, positive affirmations, and gratitude in shaping our mindset.✅His future plans for upcoming entrepreneur events in Colorado and Hilton Head.Tune in to learn how small shifts in your morning routine and mindset can lead to big results in both your personal and professional life!#MorningRoutine #EntrepreneurMindset #Leadership #Networking #NavySEALLessons #ProductivityHacks #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurs #GrowthMindset #PositiveAffirmations #Gratitude #BusinessTips #RealEstateFund #ShaOdow #AustinGray #BusinessCommunity #SuccessMindset #MotivationRemember: ✅Work Hard ✅Do Your Best ✅Never Settle For Less🎧 Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify!This episode is brought to you by:📈Home Service Software: Jobber is the all-in-one business management software for service businesses. Get 20% off your first 6 months: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops🌱Grow Your Online Presence: Bear Claw Media provides FB Ads & Content Creation for service & trade business: https://www.gobearclawmedia.com🚀Local SEO: Stryker Digital helps service businesses rank high on Google Search Results: http://stryker-digital.com/?el=oo✉️Weekly Newsletter: Want to get the most actionable tips from this episode?🔔Subscribe for free here: https://www.ownrops.com/newsletter

Mar 9, 2024 • 2h 6min
23: SEPTIC BUSINESS GOES 0 - $1.3mm IN 7 MONTHS!!! Part 2
Welcome back to the OWNR OPS Podcast! In this episode, I’m joined again by Brock Peel, the founder of Canadian Sanitation. After our first conversation, I realized there was so much more to Brock’s incredible journey, so we’re back for a second episode packed with even more valuable insights. 📙Free Service Startup Playbook To Generate Your First $100k: https://www.ownrops.com/playbook💪Here’s what we cover in this episode:✅Brock’s incredible business growth from zero to $1.3 million in just 7 months✅Why Brock chose to focus exclusively on septic services✅Learning from the “Jack of All Trades” Trap✅How Brock resisted the urge to diversify his services ✅How Brock used the lack of innovation in his competition as an opportunity to stand out. ✅The Importance of ReputationJoin us as Brock shares his valuable lessons on the power of specialization, focus, and determination that led to the rapid growth of Canadian Sanitation. Tune in for the full episode, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review if you enjoy the content!#BusinessGrowth #Specialization #SepticServices #OwnerOperatorPodcast #EntrepreneurJourney #BusinessSuccess #FocusAndGrowth🎧 Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify!This episode is brought to you by:📈Home Service Software: Jobber is the all-in-one business management software for service businesses. Get 20% off your first 6 months: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops🌱Grow Your Online Presence: Bear Claw Media provides FB Ads & Content Creation for service & trade business: https://www.gobearclawmedia.com🚀Local SEO: Stryker Digital helps service businesses rank high on Google Search Results: http://stryker-digital.com/?el=oo✉️Weekly Newsletter: Want to get the most actionable tips from this episode?🔔Subscribe for free here: https://www.ownrops.com/newsletter

Mar 5, 2024 • 1h 1min
22: SEPTIC BUSINESS GOES 0 - $1.3mm IN 7 MONTHS!!! Part 1
In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Brock Peel, the founder of Canadian Sanitation, who scaled his business to $1.3 million in revenue within just seven months! 🚀📙Free Service Startup Playbook To Generate Your First $100k: https://www.ownrops.com/playbook🔑 Here’s what we cover in this episode:✅Brock’s path to founding Canadian Sanitation✅The importance of testing ideas before perfection✅His background in heavy equipment, real estate, and contracting✅How he co-founded Canadian Sanitation with a business partner✅Overcoming challenges while building a businessThis episode is just the first part of a two-part series—stay tuned for part two, where we’ll dive deeper into Brock's mindset and unique approach to service specialization. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe on YouTube! If you're listening on Apple or Spotify, please leave us a 5-star review—it really helps!#OwnerOperatorPodcast #SmallBusinessOwner #SanitationServices #EntrepreneurJourney #BusinessGrowth #BusinessScaling #OwnerOps #CanadianSanitation #Entrepreneurship #StartUpStory #SuccessMindset #BusinessStrategies #LocalBusiness #BusinessPodcastRemember: ✅Work Hard ✅Do Your Best ✅Never Settle For Less🎧 Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify!This episode is brought to you by:📈Home Service Software: Jobber is the all-in-one business management software for service businesses. Get 20% off your first 6 months: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops🌱Grow Your Online Presence: Bear Claw Media provides FB Ads & Content Creation for service & trade business: https://www.gobearclawmedia.com🚀Local SEO: Stryker Digital helps service businesses rank high on Google Search Results: http://stryker-digital.com/?el=oo✉️Weekly Newsletter: Want to get the most actionable tips from this episode?🔔Subscribe for free here: https://www.ownrops.com/newsletter

Mar 3, 2024 • 45min
21: $60K CHRISTMAS LIGHTING SERVICE - JULIUS MARCHI
Welcome back to the OWNR OPS Podcast! In this episode, I’m joined again by Julius Mary, a successful pressure-washing entrepreneur who has also built a thriving Christmas light installation business. He shares how he generated an impressive $60,000 in just one month through his Christmas light service.📙Free Service Startup Playbook To Generate Your First $100k: https://www.ownrops.com/playbook💪Here’s what we cover in this episode:✅ How Julius started a Christmas light business✅ How he adjusted his pricing to secure more jobs✅Why he prefers small trees and bushes over complicated designs✅How returning customers save on lights, leading to a 90% profit margin for recurring work. ✅His goal of $65,000 to $70,000 in revenue this year and the challenges of scaling. If you’re interested in starting your own Christmas light business or want to optimize your current setup, this episode is packed with valuable insights and strategies.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review if you found the episode helpful!#ChristmasLights #PressureWashing #ServiceBasedBusiness #OwnerOperatorPodcast #SmallBusinessTips #ChristmasLightInstallationRemember: ✅Work Hard ✅Do Your Best ✅Never Settle For Less🎧 Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify!This episode is brought to you by:📈Home Service Software: Jobber is the all-in-one business management software for service businesses. Get 20% off your first 6 months: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops🌱Grow Your Online Presence: Bear Claw Media provides FB Ads & Content Creation for service & trade business: https://www.gobearclawmedia.com🚀Local SEO: Stryker Digital helps service businesses rank high on Google Search Results: http://stryker-digital.com/?el=oo✉️Weekly Newsletter: Want to get the most actionable tips from this episode?🔔Subscribe for free here: https://www.ownrops.com/newsletter

Mar 1, 2024 • 14min
20: HOW BAD DO YOU WANT IT? THE HARD TRUTHS BEHIND BUILDING A BUSINESS
In this episode, I get real about the tough truths of starting and running a small business in the local service market. I share about the commitment required to succeed, emphasizing that if you’re not ready to wake up early and put in the work, starting a business might not be for you. Check out the lessons I learned from my own journey, including the sacrifices I made and the mindset needed to thrive.📙Free Service Startup Playbook To Generate Your First $100k: https://www.ownrops.com/playbook🔑 Here’s what we cover in this episode:✅The dedication it takes to run a small business✅Why sacrifices, including social life, are necessary for success.✅My journey of building my business while building my house.✅The importance of outperforming competitors by delivering great service.✅How younger generations can thrive in local service businesses by embracing digital marketing.✅Why a simple work routine is more important than complicated rituals.✅The reality of the toll business ownership can take on personal life and health.If you're serious about entrepreneurship, this episode is a must-listen!#EntrepreneurMindset #SmallBusiness #OwnerOperator #BusinessSuccess #HardWork #StartupJourney #BusinessSacrifices #LocalServiceBusiness #WorkHardPlayHard #GrindSeason #DigitalMarketing #CommitmentToSuccess #AustinGray🎧 Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify!This episode is brought to you by:📈Home Service Software: Jobber is the all-in-one business management software for service businesses. Get 20% off your first 6 months: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops🌱Grow Your Online Presence: Bear Claw Media provides FB Ads & Content Creation for service & trade business: https://www.gobearclawmedia.com🚀Local SEO: Stryker Digital helps service businesses rank high on Google Search Results: http://stryker-digital.com/?el=oo✉️Weekly Newsletter: Want to get the most actionable tips from this episode?🔔Subscribe for free here: https://www.ownrops.com/newsletter

Feb 23, 2024 • 1h 1min
19: BUYING A TREE SERVICE BUSINESS
In this episode, Phil Burrows shares his journey of buying a tree and landscape business while juggling a full-time job, family life, and personal goals. From the challenges of learning a new industry to balancing his career with being a new dad, he shares how he managed it all and what he learned along the way.📙Free Service Startup Playbook To Generate Your First $100k: https://www.ownrops.com/playbook💪Here’s what we cover in this episode:✅Balancing a full-time fintech job and a new business✅The impact of Phil’s daughter’s birth on his business journey✅How he transitioned responsibilities to make the business run smoothly ✅Why he shifted from starting a new business to acquiring an existing one If you're interested in entrepreneurship, business acquisition, or balancing multiple roles, this episode is full of valuable insights!#Entrepreneurship #BusinessAcquisition #TreeBusiness #WorkLifeBalance #BusinessJourney #SideHustle #SmallBusinessSuccess #BusinessChallenges #StartupStory 🎧 Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify!This episode is brought to you by:📈Home Service Software: Jobber is the all-in-one business management software for service businesses. Get 20% off your first 6 months: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops🌱Grow Your Online Presence: Bear Claw Media provides FB Ads & Content Creation for service & trade business: https://www.gobearclawmedia.com🚀Local SEO: Stryker Digital helps service businesses rank high on Google Search Results: http://stryker-digital.com/?el=oo✉️Weekly Newsletter: Want to get the most actionable tips from this episode?🔔Subscribe for free here: https://www.ownrops.com/newsletter


