Hardscape Growth

Discover the two overlooked habits that drain profits from hardscape contractors: outdated budgets and untracked hours. Learn why regular budget reviews are crucial and how poor tracking inflates costs. The episode emphasizes the importance of solid spreadsheets and how tracking hours can refine pricing strategies. Gain insights on maintaining price confidence amidst lead scarcity and the significance of professional communication in winning bids. Plus, explore a budgeting tool that simplifies cost calculations!

Mark Bradley, founder of Leanscaper AI and a veteran in landscaping, reveals how AI is revolutionizing the industry. He discusses the automation of standard operating procedures, enhances operational efficiency, and analyzes marketing strategies. With Leanscaper, contractors gain tailored, industry-specific advice, improving decision-making on budgeting and equipment purchases. Mark also shares insights on how AI fosters learning among crews. Plus, exciting plans for Business Builders Workshops at the 2026 Hardscaper Showcase! Dive in for a blend of innovation and hands-on guidance!

In this engaging discussion, John Karpov, founder of the $20M+ Action Home Services, shares his journey from financial hardship at 17 to building a thriving landscaping empire. He reveals how door-to-door sales ignited his entrepreneurial spirit and the importance of learning on the job. John emphasizes the significance of scaling smart, creating systems, and hiring the right team to avoid burnout. With a trillion-dollar vision, he provides insights on developing a culture of continuous improvement and handling mistakes effectively.

Justin White, CEO of K&D Landscaping, shares his ambitious vision to scale his family-run business to a staggering $1 billion by 2035. He discusses the importance of leadership investment, fostering a strong company culture, and creating wealth opportunities for employees. Justin emphasizes the need for strategic hiring and a mindset shift towards long-term growth. Additionally, he highlights the role of setting audacious goals to inspire both personal and professional advancement. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating the landscaping industry's future!

Join Tony Felgueiras, Director of Media at Leanscaper, as he shares insightful strategies for landscape contractors. Discover how to define your ideal client and why emotional content connects better. Tony reveals the power of turning testimonials into persuasive sales tools and the importance of documenting rather than overthinking your content. Learn how to engage clients uniquely and leverage social media as a potent sales tool—all using just your smartphone. This conversation is packed with actionable tips to elevate your contracting business!

In this live-recorded episode of the Hardscape Growth Podcast, Alex from Techo-Bloc is joined by returning guest Tigran from Applewood Landscapes and designer Taylor Young to explore the real impact of design on growing a hardscape business. From eliminating costly on-site confusion to creating a “wow” factor that sells jobs, they break down how having a clear plan streamlines operations, improves margins, and builds trust with clients. Key Takeaways:Why a clear design prevents costly mistakes and wasted laborHow the design process builds trust and emotional buy-in from clientsThe business case for charging design fees—and how to position themTips for navigating budget conversations early and effectivelyThe competitive advantage of keeping design and build under one roofWhether you're a seasoned builder or just starting out, this episode proves that design isn't just a nice-to-have—it's the foundation for scaling your business.New episodes every Tuesday! Got a topic you want us to cover? DM us @hardscaper_ or email podcast@hardscaper.com.Follow & Subscribe:📸 Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/hardscaper_/:tv: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hardscaper:globe_with_meridians: Website: https://hardscaper.com/Missed last year’s Hardscaper Showcase? Watch on-demand for expert insights on pools, drainage, outdoor kitchens & more! → Head over to our On-Demand Section to check it out for free!

In this episode of Hardscape Growth, Nick and Kyle Baughman—half-brothers and co-leaders of EarthScapes in New Jersey—share their journey from starting with a push mower to building a thriving, culture-driven landscaping business rooted in strong values and intentional leadership.🔑 Key Takeaways:​Set core values—and actually use them.​Revisit your vision when the team changes.​Make training hands-on and engaging.​Treat your client experience like a competitive edge.​Use weekly 1:1s to create real accountability.The episode is a masterclass in how intentional leadership and clearly defined culture can transform a landscaping business into a respected and scalable brand.New episodes every Tuesday! Got a topic you want us to cover? DM us @hardscaper_ or email podcast@hardscaper.com. Follow & Subscribe:📸 Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hardscaper_/⁠:tv: YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@hardscaper⁠⁠🌐 Website:⁠⁠ https://hardscaper.com/⁠⁠ Missed last year’s Hardscaper Showcase? Watch on-demand for expert insights on pools, drainage, outdoor kitchens & more! → Head over to our ⁠⁠On-Demand Section⁠⁠ to check it out for free!

In this episode of Hardscape Growth, Alex Farah—landscape contractor and certified nutrition coach—shares the six most important health and nutrition strategies every contractor should know.From hydration and inflammation to caffeine, calories, and recovery, this conversation is packed with practical advice tailored specifically for the physically demanding work of hardscaping. Learn how to fuel your body properly, improve focus on the job, reduce physical strain, and avoid burnout throughout the season.If you want to feel better, perform better, and build a healthier routine that lasts, this episode is for you.Key topics covered:The importance of starting your day with hydrationCommon mistakes with caffeine and energy drinksNatural solutions to reduce joint pain and inflammationHow to eat for energy, strength, and recoveryThe critical role of sleep in contractor performanceTune in to learn how to treat your body like the asset it truly is.New episodes every Tuesday! Got a topic you want us to cover? DM us @hardscaper_ or email podcast@hardscaper.com.Follow & Subscribe:📸 Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hardscaper_/⁠📺 YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@hardscaper⁠🌐 Website:⁠ https://hardscaper.com/⁠Missed last year’s Hardscaper Showcase? Watch on-demand for expert insights on pools, drainage, outdoor kitchens & more! → Head over to our ⁠On-Demand Section⁠ to check it out for free!

In this episode, Alex talks to Justin Tal from Creative Design Maintenance who shares his approach to building a thriving hardscaping business by combining top-tier design with smart sales strategies. From qualifying leads efficiently to incorporating financing options that boost project value, Justin walks us through the key tactics that have helped him stand out in a competitive market. Key Takeaways:Qualifying Leads with Precision: Charged consultations and price ranges help Justin filter out unqualified leads early.Leveraging Financing for Upselling: Financing enables clients to expand their projects, boosting overall project value by 10-20%.Customer Service as a Differentiator: Justin’s exceptional customer service, including daily updates, builds trust and keeps clients engaged.Whether you're looking to enhance your design offerings or improve customer service, this episode is packed with valuable insights.New episodes every Tuesday! Got a topic you want us to cover? DM us @hardscaper_ or email podcast@hardscaper.com.Follow & Subscribe:📸 Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hardscaper_/⁠📺 YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@hardscaper⁠🌐 Website:⁠ https://hardscaper.com/⁠Missed last year’s Hardscaper Showcase? Watch on-demand for expert insights on pools, drainage, outdoor kitchens & more! → Head over to our ⁠On-Demand Section⁠ to check it out for free!

In this live episode of the Hardscape Growth podcast, host Alex from Techo-Bloc chats with Cesar Vargas of C Vargas Construction about the strategy behind running a high-end, customer-centric hardscape business. From building a strong office team to maintaining a tight-knit crew, Cesar shares the key decisions that helped him grow without losing quality or connection.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why prioritizing office support early creates a better customer experienceHow consistent communication sets you apart from competitorsThe power of CRM tools to streamline scheduling, estimating, and client updatesHow culture, monthly meetings, and goal-setting drive long-term team loyaltyWhy a positive attitude and willingness to learn opens doors to new opportunitiesNew episodes every Tuesday! Got a topic you want us to cover? DM us @hardscaper_ or email podcast@hardscaper.com.Follow & Subscribe:📸 Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/hardscaper_/📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hardscaper🌐 Website: https://hardscaper.com/Missed last year’s Hardscaper Showcase? Watch on-demand for expert insights on pools, drainage, outdoor kitchens & more! → Head over to our On-Demand Section to check it out for free!