Hardscape Growth

Welcome to this week's episode of the Hardscape Growth Podcast. In this episode, we have the privilege of hosting Dan Antonelli, author of Branded Not Blanded, president and chief creative officer of Kickcharge Creative renowned for his branding expertise. Join us as we delve into the intricate world of elevating hardscape brands to unparalleled heights. Through a blend of strategic insights and practical know-how, Dan imparts a wealth of knowledge aimed at empowering your hardscape business with a brand identity that resonates and drives tangible results. Here are some key takeaways: Understand branding's pivotal role, going beyond marketing to shape business success. Discover how a strong brand can attract clients and high-caliber employees, enhancing company culture. Craft a brand that resonates, drawing in clients aligned with your values In essence, this episode unveils branding's transformative power for your hardscape business. Dan Antonelli's insights guide you in elevating your brand, enhancing marketing impact, and boosting sales. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

Join us on this episode of Hardscape Growth, as we dive into the world of construction and project planning with Andrew Pepper, an industry expert from The Stone Depot. With years of experience in helping clients select the perfect materials for their projects, Andrew shares valuable insights on building strong relationships, maximizing showroom visits, and staying at the forefront of industry advancements. A constant advocate for personal and professional growth, Andrew highlights the significance of continuous learning in the industry. He emphasizes that the most successful individuals are those who invest time and effort in expanding their knowledge and skills. Andrew explores the benefits of ongoing education and how it contributes to the ease of building strong relationships with contractors. Here are some key points: Building Trust and Relationships Maximizing Showroom Visits Continuous Learning and Adaptability The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

In this week's episode, Eric Aguib, President and founder of Snowmelting.ca, joins Alex for a discussion on snowmelting systems that very quickly turns into a conversation about selling to high-end clients. Eric's extensive experience working in some of the most exclusive communities in the hardscape hotbed of Montreal, Canada, have helped him develop some unique skills and techniques that really set him apart. The fact that he has designed and built tens of thousands of square feet of heated permeable pavement systems in one of the harshest climates imaginable doesn't hurt either.  Covered in this episode: The challenges of sellign high-end projects The benefits of heated pavements and how they work Valuable sales lessons learned from negotiating with powerful people daily Eric's other comapny, Aguib Creations, is a full-service, Techo-Pro certified design-build firm located in Montreal.  Here are some resources to look into: snowmelting.ca Become a Techo-Pro Heated Pavement playlist on YouTube The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

This week on the Hardscape Growth podcast, we talk with Chad Kasten, a seasoned Senior Landscape Designer, as he shares his insights and experiences working with Weller Brothers. Chad brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, having spent 14 years honing his craft and currently in his 8th season with the company. We delve into Weller Brothers' journey, from its status as a top landscape company in Sioux Falls to its recent expansion into Rochester, MN. We explore the empowering culture built on trust and empowerment right from the beginning, enabling team members to take ownership of their work and contribute to the company's success. Join us as we uncover the vibrant culture at Weller Brothers, where monthly breakfast celebrations, annual fiestas, golf outings, and Thunder Road adventures foster camaraderie and celebrate team achievements. From career growth vision discussions to encouraging creativity and flexibility, Weller Brothers takes care of its people and seeks to uplift the entire industry. Chad recounts remarkable stories of team members who have embraced new roles and grown alongside the company, emphasizing the transformative impact of such opportunities. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

In this episode, we sit down with Chad Aiken, owner of Spruce Creek Landscapes. A few years ago, he made the decision to stop drinking and has seen a remarkable transformation in his business as a result. We'll discuss the impact that sobriety has had on his ability to focus, make better decisions, and communicate more effectively with his team. We'll also explore the challenges that come with getting sober as an entrepreneur, from managing stress and anxiety to building a support system. Whether you're sober-curious or looking to improve your business leadership skills, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to grow their business while staying true to themselves. Follow Chad on Instagram @sprucecreeklandscapes The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

Join us for an insightful episode as we delve into the significance of cash flow in running a thriving business. Our special guests are landscape business accounting specialists from Cycle CPA, here to share their expertise. In this episode, we'll uncover effective strategies for managing cash flow that can make or break your business. Learn how to navigate common pitfalls and gain valuable insights into optimizing your finances for long-term success. Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Understand the crucial role of cash flow and its impact on your business's health. 2️⃣ Explore practical strategies for managing cash flow efficiently. 3️⃣ Identify common pitfalls to avoid when it comes to cash flow management. 4️⃣ Discover best practices for optimizing your finances and ensuring long-term success. 5️⃣ Gain insights from landscape business accounting specialists at Cycle CPA. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that will empower you to take control of your cash flow and achieve financial stability. Tune in now to gain the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in your landscape business The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

Wes from SynkedUp is back on the show! This time, we're pulling back the curtain on hardscape contractor costing and pricing data from across North America to give you some key benchmarks for your selling prices, expenses and profits. In this episode, we'll dive deep into some of the essential financial aspects of running a hardscape construction business. First, we'll discuss the average labor hours (manhour) price range for small to large companies, which will help you get an idea of how your pricing stacks up against industry leaders.Next, we'll delve into the typical profit ranges for businesses of different sizes and explore some of the commonly overlooked factors in this category. Understanding your profit margins is critical to the success of your business, and we're excited to share some valuable insights to help you optimize them.Finally, we'll wrap up with a discussion of the overhead cost ranges for different sized businesses. Wes will share some of the best ways to control these expenses in light of a leaner economy, so you can keep your costs under control and maximize your profits. Wes Zimmerman is CEO and co-founder at SynkedUp, is a landscape management software built by contractors for contractors. Here are some key takeaways: Costs are increasing, your pricing should not, but without proper visibility you may lack the confidence needed to hold your ground in a negotiation. While smaller ocmpanies may have lower operating costs, they don't need to be selling for less, or accepting lower margins. If your company is netting single-digit profits, you may as well be working for someone else. 10% net profit should be the minimum you accept.  Rule of thumb: 30 - 30 - 30 - 10 (labor cost - material cost - overhead - profit). If you want to do a consultation for your budget with SynkedUp, here's an exclusive link to our listeners: https://synkedup.com/budget-consultation-form/ The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

On this episode of the Hardscape Growth podcast, Jeff Wraley, CEO and Founder of Groundwork, shares his expertise on building a well-defined process to sell outdoor living spaces. Jeff walks us through the keys to building a sales process that is measurable, refinable, and most importantly, predictable. He highlights the importance of customer-centricity and how building the best possible process for prospects to navigate can make all the difference in closing deals. Additionally, Jeff sheds light on some of the common mistakes that can kill your sales and how to avoid them. Whether you've been doing this for decades or just starting in the outdoor living space industry, this episode provides actionable insights to help you improve your sales process and drive growth. Tune in to learn from Jeff Wraley and take your sales game to the next level. Key insights: A sales process, or playbook, makes revenue growth simple and predictable.  Old school tactics don't fit with today's customers and are killing your sales. You're not the hero, the customer is. Groundwork (https://www.hellogroundwork.com/) is focused on video project walkthroughs to help the sales process. It's integrated with SynkedUp and LMN to fit seemlessly with your existing customer relationship management tools and processes. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_

Here's a bonus content! A continuation with Josh Gillow answering questions from the live audience. - In this episode, we chat with ⁠Josh Gillow⁠, founder of ⁠Yes! Express⁠, a sales academy for landscapers, hardscapers, and outdoor living professionals. Josh shares his insights on what professionals need to pay attention to in order to be successful in growing their sales, especially in today's turbulent economy. Josh highlights the importance of communicating value and making sure that people feel that value. He provides valuable tips on navigating the sales cycle and emphasizes the importance of defining your ideal client. Listeners will learn about the key factors that can make or break a sale and the importance of building relationships with clients. Whether you're just starting out in the industry or looking to take your sales to the next level, Josh's insights are sure to provide valuable guidance. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights on growing sales in today's challenging economy and learn from the expertise of Josh Gillow. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [⁠https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/⁠] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our ⁠Facebook⁠ or ⁠Instagram⁠ page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at ⁠podcast@hardscaper.com⁠ or send us a DM on Instagram ⁠@hardscaper_⁠

In this episode, we chat with Josh Gillow, founder of Yes! Express, a sales academy for landscapers, hardscapers, and outdoor living professionals. Josh shares his insights on what professionals need to pay attention to in order to be successful in growing their sales, especially in today's turbulent economy. Josh highlights the importance of communicating value and making sure that people feel that value. He provides valuable tips on navigating the sales cycle and emphasizes the importance of defining your ideal client. Listeners will learn about the key factors that can make or break a sale and the importance of building relationships with clients. Whether you're just starting out in the industry or looking to take your sales to the next level, Josh's insights are sure to provide valuable guidance. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights on growing sales in today's challenging economy and learn from the expertise of Josh Gillow. The Hardscaper High Five was first introduced as part of Hardscaper Showcase earlier in 2023. If you couldn't make it out to one of those events, head over to [https://hardscaper.com/2023-virtual-showcase/] to check it out for free! We launch new episodes every Tuesday, so be sure to sign up to our Facebook or Instagram page to be the first to get notified! Have an idea for an episode, or a problem you’d like to see us explore? Hit us up at podcast@hardscaper.com or send us a DM on Instagram @hardscaper_