In today’s episode, Jack sits down with Jeff Riddle, founder of Alterra Landscape Design in Dallas, to talk about what it really takes to keep a landscape company growing—even when the market softens. Jeff shares how Dallas is seeing more competition than ever before, why lead volume has dipped, and the surprising reasons many landscape firms are feeling anxious even in a still-healthy market. Yet instead of cutting back, Jeff explains why Alterra has intentionally increased marketing investment, upgraded their website, and leaned into long-term branding strategies.

You’ll also hear how video, reviews, deep content, and boots-on-the-ground storytelling help Alterra stand out in a market with 75% more competitors than two decades ago. From navigating AI-driven search to using ChatGPT for content creation, Jeff offers practical, real-world lessons landscape companies can apply right now.

You’ll Learn:

• Why cutting marketing in a downturn is a costly mistake
• How long-term marketing investments “harvest” results years later
• What landscape companies need to know about AI-driven search
• Why deep content, reviews, and video outperform competitors
• How Alterra creates steady demand in an oversaturated market

Connect With Today's Guest:
 🌳 Alterra Landscape Design: https://alterradesignllc.com/
👤 Connect with Jeffery Riddle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefferyriddle/
🏢 Company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alterradesignllc/
📘 Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockmygarden

🎧 Watch the full episode + read the transcript: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/
🥓 Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox
📅 See upcoming live and virtual events:
https://landscapersguide.com/events

In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes interviews Stacey Hinson, Director of Sales at Snow Systems, one of the nation’s leading commercial snow removal companies. Stacey shares her inspiring journey from starting as an office manager to selling over $50 million in commercial snow contracts while helping grow Snow Systems from a Chicago-based operation to a national service provider in 44 states.

You’ll hear how Stacey earned credibility as one of the few female sales leaders in the snow industry, how she leads with honesty and communication, and why building long-term client relationships beats chasing new bids every winter. This episode is a must-listen for snow and landscape business owners looking to strengthen sales, trust, and retention.

You’ll Learn:

• How Stacey built trust in a male-dominated industry
• Why honesty and communication close more long-term contracts
• The sales principles behind $50 million in snow revenue
• How Snow Systems scaled from local to national operations
• Tips for retaining customers year after year

Guest Contact:
🌳 Snow Systems: https://www.snowsystems.com
👤 Connect with Stacey Hinson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-hinson-39440957
📧 stacey.hinson@snowsystems.com
📞 (847) 808-7800
🏢 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snow_systems_nationwide/
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/snowsystems

 🎧 Watch the full episode + read the transcript: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/
🥓 Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox
📅 See upcoming live and virtual events: https://landscapersguide.com/events

What keeps a landscape company strong after six decades, and what has to change to keep growing?

In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes visits Grand Rapids to talk with Jeremy Miller, owner of Miller Landscape, as the company approaches 60 years in business. Jeremy shares how a family-first culture, EOS, and clear roles helped the team move past a revenue plateau and build a scalable company where people can grow without burning out.

You’ll discover:

• How “Do What We Say We Will Do” shows up in hiring, operations, and customer experience
• Why EOS, role clarity, and a smaller leadership team reduced conflict and improved accountability
• The scorecard metrics Miller Landscape watches weekly, including Google Reviews, and why reviews now drive buying decisions
• How a 10-year VTO to $20M, plus a focus on time, guides decisions and protects family life

Whether you are running a $2M shop or building past $10M, you will hear practical ways to scale profitably while keeping your team and family front and center.

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/ 

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Check out Miller Landscape: https://www.millerlandscape.com/

See upcoming live and virtual events: https://landscapersguide.com/events

In today’s podcast episode, Jack Jostes discusses the challenges of recruiting employees with Terry Shaffer of Summit Lawn & Landscape and how Ramblin Jackson helped Terry improve his employee interview attendance rate and fill his staff using strategies from Ramblin Jackson's Ultimate Recruiting Package. 

Listen to the full episode to hear: 

• The importance of pre-qualifying potential employees to save time & resources
• How to streamline the recruitment process through website updates & better job descriptions  
• The benefits of using Team Engine, a recruiting software that helps manage applicants and improve engagement. 
• Why it’s important to try new technologies to improve your recruiting efforts

Show Notes:

Register for the webinar: Real Recruiting Case Studies: What’s Working NOW for Landscapers: https://landscapersguide.com/real-recruiting-case-studies-what-works-for-landscapers-now/

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Book your free 15 min Marketing Brainstorm: https://landscapersguide.com/brainstorm

In this week’s podcast episode, Jack Jostes discusses the importance of identifying your Hell Yes Customer for your snow and landscape company. 

Listen to the full episode to: 

• Understand who your Hell Yes Customer is and why they should choose your company over others 
• Download the Hell Yes Customer  worksheet to help you clarify your target customer and offers 
• Hear examples of unique selling positions that can set your company apart from the competition
• Understand the importance of alignment among team members in defining your Hell Yes  Customer

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Book your Free 15-Minute Brainstorm Call: https://landscapersguide.com/brainstorm

Listen to The Landscaper's Guide to Sales and Marketing in the New Economy: https://landscapersguide.com/the-landscapers-guide-to-sales-and-marketing-in-a-normal-economy/

Download your Hell Yes Customer Worksheet Here

In this podcast episode, Jack Jostes interviews Mike Callahan, CEO and founder of Simple Growth, about the five key hurdles that landscape companies face on their path to $10 million in revenue. 

They uncover those 5 hurdles and share tips for overcoming them. Listen to the full episode to hear:

• How a scorecard can help you retain A Players on your team
• A simple concept called the Big Three
• How to create simple, scalable service offerings
• The significance of financial clarity
• How to incentivize employees based on productivity & profitability

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Connect with Mike Callahan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simeplegrowth/

Check out Simple Growth online: https://www.simplegrowthsystems.com/

How to Automate Your Landscaping Sales Process & Avoid Business Owner Burnout: https://landscapersguide.com/how-to-automate-your-landscaping-sales-process-and-avoid-business-owner-burnout/ 

Today Jack Jostes takes you behind the scenes of his annual Elk Hunting Experience in the mountains of Colorado with one of his clients. Even if you’re not a hunter, check out today's podcast to hear a story of adventure and four wheel drive in the high country of Colorado. The holidays are quickly approaching, and he also gives a gift suggestion that every outdoor enthusiast will appreciate and enjoy.

Listen to today’s episode to discover:

• The exciting story of Jack’s successful cow elk harvest
• How an annual goal can motivate you throughout the year to do your best work
• Why you should always be prepared to bargain (especially when you’re low on gasoline)
• A lesson in why it’s important to keep going, even when you want to quit
• Jack’s most useful and favorite piece of outdoor equipment that every outdoor enthusiast needs in their backpack

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Schedule your free 15-minute Marketing Brainstorm Call: https://landscapersguide.com/brainstorm

Join us for our upcoming webinar: Brand Your Sales Process to Get the Owner OUT of Sales: https://landscapersguide.com/events

The results are in…and in this episode of The Landscaper's Guide Podcast, Jack Jostes discusses the highlights of the 2023 Snow & Landscape Sales Survey. The survey, which interviewed nearly 200 companies in the snow and landscape industry, covers topics such as sales close rates, marketing budgets, and the most effective marketing strategies.

Watch today’s episode to gain more insight on how landscape companies across the United States are growing their business and use these results to create a marketing plan that will help you accelerate your company growth in 2024.

In this episode, you’ll discover: 

• The number one marketing strategy used by landscapers across the country
• The connection between your annual marketing budget and annual revenue
• How much other landscape companies in your region are spending on marketing
• The biggest challenge for landscape company owners reported in 2023 

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/results-from-the-2023-snow-and-landscape-sales-survey/

Download the results of the Snow & Landscape Sales Survey: https://landscapersguide.com/survey

Book your free 15 minute Brainstorm: https://landscapersguide.com/brainstorm 

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

In today’s podcast episode, Jack Jostes features Andrew Hardison as the winner of this year’s “What’s Working Now” contest from the 2023 Landscaper’s Summit.  Andrew challenges the belief that working 80 hours a week is necessary for success and shares his strategies for taking control of your time and serving customers more effectively. 

During his (hilarious & fun) presentation, Andrew shares the importance of: 

• trusting your team
• being selective with projects & choosing Hell Yes Customers 
• charging for initial consultations 
• investing in a professionally designed website
• continuously learning and growing to be a better leader 

Purchase a digital replay of the 2023 Landscaper’s Summit: http://landscapersummit.com

Join us for an upcoming virtual webinar: https://landscapersguide.com/events

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/how-to-take-control-of-your-time-to-serve-customers/ 

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

In this episode of the Landscaper's Guide Podcast, and in honor of Halloween, Jack Jostes discusses 7 things that may be scaring potential customers away from working with your snow & landscape company. 

WARNING: if you don’t like terrible puns and dad jokes…do not watch today’s episode.

Today Jack talks about how: 

• Old, low-quality website photos make your company look outdated
• Lack of response to negative Google reviews is bad for your online reputation
• Fake reviews on Facebook mislead prospects who are researching your brand (and what to do about them)
• Unprofessional social media content can spook potential customers
• Effective SEO for top Google rankings helps you get seen & hired by more Hell Yes Customers

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/7-ways-your-marketing-is-spooking-away-potential-landscape-customers-this-halloween/ 

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Book your free 15 minute Brainstorm call here: https://landscapersguide.com/brainstorm

The Landscaper’s Summit is a virtual conference happening on October 26th, 2024. In today’s podcast episode, Jack Jostes shares nine reasons why snow & landscape companies should consider attending the summit. 

Attend the Landscaper’s Summit if you want to: 

• learn how to become a manager and leader
• increase employee retention through communication
• improve your sales process
• understand key numbers for profitability
• Get free pizza delivered to your doorstep
• gain insights on acquiring maintenance clients
• find ways to have more personal time
• improve employee culture and retention
• get inspired by successful landscape professionals. 

The Landscaper’s Summit offers educational sessions from sponsors like Team Engine, aspire Software and McFarlin Stanford, networking opportunities, and the chance to learn from green industry experts who are killing it in the industry. Early bird tickets are available for $97 through Oct 20, 2023.

Register for the 2023 Landscaper’s Summit: https://landscapersummit.com 

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Today, Jack Jostes interviews Megan Parker, a certified executive leadership coach at McFarlin Stanford. In this episode you’ll get a preview of Megan's upcoming presentation titled “Don’t Take the Monkey” at the upcoming Landscaper's Summit happening on October 26, 2023, where she will provide interactive coaching exercises and tools for landscapers to improve their coaching skills. 

Listen to learn: 

• how coaching employees to find their own solutions helps them gain confidence and prevents the burden of problem-solving from falling on the leader.
• the importance of setting clear expectations and using a “coach approach” to help employees think through problems and develop their own solutions. 
• examples and strategies for coaching employees who may lack motivation or confidence, as well as those who may need additional training or support. 

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Get your ticket for the 4th Annual Landscaper’s Summit: https://landscapersummit.com

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Connect with Megan Parker from McFarlin Stanford on LinkedIn.

What would happen to your landscape company if you were banned from Google for 18 months? In today’s episode, Kelly Slater, VP of Pleasant Landscapes shares the consequences of working with a shady SEO company, how working with Ramblin Jackson transformed her online presence and got her out of Google Jail, and her secret to hitting her goal of 500 maintenance clients.

In this episode, Kelly shares: 

• The importance of letting go of clients who aren’t profitable to reach your goals
• How to build trust with your team by implementing a zero-tolerance policy for rude clients
• Why a revamped website, Google Reviews & great photos are essential for any landscape company looking to grow

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/from-google-jail-to-500-maintenance-clients-with-kelly-slater/

Get your ticket for the 4th Annual Landscaper’s Summit: https://landscapersummit.com

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Check out Pleasant Landscapes & connect with Kelly Slater: https://www.pleasantlandscapes.com/

Hiring, leading, and keeping your team focused is one of the toughest parts of growing a landscaping company. Add in the unique challenges of ADHD and neurodivergence, and it can feel overwhelming. 

But what if those differences could actually be a strength in your company?

In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes interviews LeanScaper Chief Customer Experience Officer Kristen Kiely. Kristen has nearly a decade of industry experience with LMN, The Grounds Guys, and now LeanScaper, and her husband runs a $5M design-build and snow company in Toronto. 

She shares how neurodivergence, structure, and operational systems can actually fuel growth for landscaping companies.

You’ll discover:

• Why ADHD and neurodivergence can be a superpower in the landscape industry
• How tools like calendaring, nutrition, and routines improve focus and leadership
• Why efficient operations and financial discipline drive profitability and scalability

Whether you’re managing a $2M company or pushing past $10M, this episode will help you think differently about your team and your growth.

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/ 

Get your free beef jerky sample: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox 

See upcoming live and virtual events: https://landscapersguide.com/events

Connect with Kristen:

 Instagram: https://instagram.com/kristencxo

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenkielycfe/

 LeanScaper: https://leanscaper.com

On today’s podcast, I’m bringing you stories of real-life landscape companies that I met while attending NALP’s ELEVATE event in Dallas, TX. The green industry connects people from different backgrounds – from military to master’s degree students – who all share a common passion for landscaping, horticulture and ultimately serving others. Today we’re highlighting those people and giving you an inside look at what they’re doing to thrive in the snow & landscape industry.

Listen to the episode and hear stories from:

• A podcast listener who left the green industry and eventually came back who shares what their career path looks like now
• A college student who’s passionate about the green industry and is pursuing their Master’s in Horticulture (and looking for an internship!)
• A Coast Guard Reservist who’s gone 60 days at a time while also running a full-time landscape company
• And a landscape business owner who started mowing lawns at the age of 11, which ultimately led to him running a successful landscaping business in GA.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Register for the upcoming Landscaper’s Summit on Oct 26th: https://landscapersummit.com

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Connect with Anthony at Russo Landscapes: https://www.russolandscapes.com/

Connect with Johnathan Hampton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahampton0121/

Connect with Chris at Perfect Cut Landscaping: https://perfectcutlandscapingfl.com/

Connect with Joe at Groundshog: https://groundshog.com/

Learn how to get six months of Aspire free at https://ramblinjackson.com/aspire/

On this week’s podcast episode, I’m interviewing long-time client Scott Callenius from Forever Green Landscape Services. Scott has increased his revenue from $1 million to $3 million in just under 5 years, and today he’s sharing some great insights on how he achieved that goal and how you can too. 

In this episode we’ll cover: 

• Why dialing in your Hell Yes Customer is critical for business success
• How long digital marketing takes before seeing results
• How learning to say no helped Scott reach his revenue goals
• Why you should invest in professional photo shoots and branding for your company
• Scott’s leadership style & how it results in more invested team members & better clients

🖥️ Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/say-yes-to-get-to-1m-and-no-to-get-to-5m-with-scott-callenius/  ‎

📖 Order Your Copy of the Tree of Good Fortune: https://treeofgoodfortune.com 

🤠Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Check out Scott’s website: https://forevergreenlandscaper.com/

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-callenius-29b6261a/

We’ve got some fantastic guests on today’s podcast today from the FNGLA Landscape Show. Listen to the whole episode to learn more about everything from earthworm life cycles to AI developments including: 

• How Eaton Worms is saving the planet with worms & contributing to landscape companies’ sustainability
• The most critical training component for sales people - with Mike from Artificial Grass Warehouse
• How Scapify is Changing the Game for Garden Centers Through eCommerce & AI Technology
• The hottest plant varieties and trends from Kata at Walters Gardens
• The benefits of connecting with local college agriculture programs to recruit high-qualified interns and future employees

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Check out Eaton Worms for ways to improve soil for future generations

Discover more about Artificial Grass Warehouse for high-quality wholesale turf 

Learn more about Scapify eCommerce for Garden Centers

Discover new plant varieties & popular perennials for 2024 at Walters Gardens

Check out the  Valencia College Plant Science & Agricultural Tech Program

Are you heading to the NALP's ELEVATE show in Dallas, TX? Here are five ways to join Jack Jostes and meet the Ramblin Jackson team!

1. Stop by Booth #1110 for a bag of jerky + enter to win a Traeger Grill
2. Monday, 9/11 - Join us for a private client Ramblin Reception for Ramblin Jackson Clients (space is limited!)
3. Tuesday, 9/12 - Join Jack for the Breakfast with Champions: How To Brand Your Sales Process To Get The Owner OUT of Sales
4. Wed, 9/13 - Join Jack for the Breakfast with Champions: How To Recruit A-Players With Social Media
5. Shoot a podcast interview with Jack Jostes! Look for Jack on the trade show floor or DM @jackjostes on Instagram to be featured on the Landscaper’s Guide Podcast 

Watch the full episode on YOUTUBE at: https://youtu.be/yfV8UK6Yeu8

Watch today's episode on YouTube! 

In this episode, the Ramblin Jackson team meets with the homeowner of an epic landscape installation installed by Alpine Gardens, a multimillion dollar landscape company from Fort Collins, Colorado.

Watch the episode to see:

• An interview with the homeowner of a high-end mountain property and what she cared about most when hiring her landscape company
• What you need on your website to build rapport & establish trust with referral leads
• Why Google reviews & great website photos help close more customers
• Why “how long you’ve been in business” isn’t as important as you think

See the full video podcast on our YouTube Channel or at https://landscapersguide.com/from-drainage-mess-to-mountain-oasis-the-alpine-gardens-landscape-transformation/  ‎

Tell us where to ship your beef jerky + Marketing Toolbox! https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox/ 

If you’re looking for the secret to recruiting top-quality employees, check out today’s episode with our guest, Nick Klotz of EPM Professional Ground Services. Nick’s philosophy on maintaining a positive company culture is the secret to his successful multi-million dollar landscape company and it’s also the secret to how he maintains a 95% employee retention rate. 

In today’s episode, Nick will share: 

• How he keeps such a high employee retention rate
• How company events are essential for positive team culture 
• Why he invests in his team members’ education
• How challenging situations like employee offboarding are an opportunity for reinforcing company culture
• His secret for building a solid team without using Indeed or other recruiting tools

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/fix-your-labor-shortage-by-correcting-your-company-culture-with-nick-klotz/

Check out EPM’s website: https://www.epmofmichigan.com/

Check out Nick's consulting practice: https://nickklotzconsulting.com/

Tell us where to ship your beef jerky + Marketing Toolbox! https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox/ 

Listen to today’s episode if you’re ready to save time and communicate more effectively with your clients during every step of your landscaping project. 

Jack Jostes shows you the magic of Milestone Videos and walks you through the exact process for reviewing your project timeline and finding the perfect places to proactively inform your clients about the status of their project. 

He’ll cover: 

• How to decide which Milestone Videos you should create
• How Milestone Videos enhance your design-build Process
• How to keep your Milestone Videos organized
• How Ramblin Jackson makes it easy to produce Milestone Videos 
• How Milestone Videos have saved other landscape companies time 

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/milestone-videos-the-secret-to-saving-time-and-improving-client-communication/ 

Plan your Milestone Video Shoot in the Ramblin Jackson Studio: www.landscapersguide.com/brainstorm

Tell us where to ship your beef jerky + Marketing Toolbox! https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox/ 

Join us at an upcoming event!  https://landscapersguide.com/events

Join Jack Jostes and Andrew Hardison as they discuss the positive effects of being selective with landscaping client projects, charging initial consultation fees, pursuing higher-quality projects, and prioritizing efficient processes to increase close rates and balance a successful business with growing family.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/how-to-increase-close-rates-by-charging-for-landscape-consultations 

Tell us where to ship your beef jerky + Marketing Toolbox! https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox/ 

Join us at an upcoming event!  https://landscapersguide.com/events

CONNECT WITH ANDREW: 

Find Andrew online at: https://www.hardisonlandscaping.com/

Connect with Andrew on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-hardison-258002245/

Follow Andrew on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardisonlandscaping/

Discover lead generation insights with Thumbtack, Instagram Reels, and SEO, as we interview a successful landscape architect and address common questions about social media and SEO in today's podcast.

In today's podcast, join us as we explore the effectiveness of Thumbtack in generating quality leads, the potential of Instagram Reels for lead generation, and the importance of SEO. 

We'll also interview a successful landscape architect who shares his insights on lead generation through Instagram Reels, and I'll be addressing common questions landscapers have about social media and SEO. Don't miss this insightful discussion!

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/exploring-lead-generation-secrets-thumbtack-instagram-reels-and-seo-insights-for-landscapers/

Check out the Vivid Vision Book Recommendation Podcast: https://landscapersguide.com/book-recommendation-for-landscape-companies-vivid-vision-by-cameron-herold/

Join us in today’s episode as we tackle the common challenge of sales ruts, offering nine budget-friendly sales and marketing ideas to revive your dry pipeline and bring leads back to life!

Have you ever found yourself in a sales rut? The feeling of a dry pipeline, with leads seeming to vanish into thin air?

If the answer is yes, you’re honest..and you’re not alone! It's just a natural part of the business journey, and today, we're going to tackle it head-on. Get ready to discover nine powerful, budget-friendly sales and marketing ideas that will breathe new life into your sales pipeline.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/9-mostly-free-marketing-tactics-when-you’re-stuck-in-a-sales-rut

Learn to Attract Enough of the Qualified “Hell Yes!” Customers to Your Landscaping Company with our worksheet: https://landscapersguide.com/hellyes/

Schedule your 15 minute Marketing Brainstorm: https://landscapersguide.com/brainstorm/

RSVP for our Client Appreciation Party in Lyons, CO: https://landscapersguide.com/rjbirthday/

Hiring a Marketing Coordinator might sound like a luxury — but for growing landscape companies, it could be the smartest move you make (besides ordering cheese curds in Wisconsin).

In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes sits down with Ramblin Jackson’s Marketing Coordinator, Hayden Storms, who started as an apprentice and now leads podcast editing, video production, and marketing automation.

You’ll discover:

• How to actually use your iPhone to shoot sharp, on-site video content
• Leadership takeaways from Scouts and DECA that build real team culture
• Why keeping your current clients happy often pays more than chasing new ones

Whether you’re ready to hire your first marketing role or just tired of doing it all yourself, this episode’s got lessons you can apply right away.

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/ 

Get your free beef jerky here: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox 

See upcoming live and virtual events: https://landscapersguide.com/events

Connect with us:

Jack Jostes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackjostes/ 

Hayden Storms on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/haydenstorms 

Discover the keys to visionary leadership as a small business owner in the snow and landscape industry, with insights from an inspiring book that transformed my approach as a leader, resulting in remarkable outcomes for my company.

As the leader of a snow and landscape company or any small business, your role is pivotal in shaping the company's vision and communicating it effectively to attract ideal employees and ensure your family's understanding. But how do you achieve this visionary leadership?

In today's episode, we delve into an incredible book that revolutionized the way I approach leadership. Tune in as I share the valuable insights I gained from this book and the remarkable results my company experienced after implementing its teachings.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/book-recommendation-for-landscape-companies-vivid-vision-by-cameron-herold

Check out the Vivid Vision book + resources:

https://www.amazon.com/Vivid-Vision-Remarkable-Aligning-Business/dp/161961877X

https://vividvision.com/

https://www.audible.com/pd/Vivid-Vision-A-Remarkable-Tool-for-Aligning-Your-Business-Around-a-Shared-Vision-of-the-Future-Audiobook/B07RYN3PQR

Entrepreneurial Operating System Resources:

https://youtu.be/8S0QFgiVzWc

https://landscapersguide.com/2021-annual-ramblin-retreat-takeaways/

https://www.amazon.com/Traction-Get-Grip-Your-Business/dp/1936661837

Grab your Snow and Landscaper’s Marketing Toolbox: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Subscribe for top episodes and invitations to our events: ttps://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Discover the benefits of having an executive assistant and how they can help small business owners reclaim their time, enhance company performance, and improve the overall experience for employees and customers in this insightful podcast episode featuring Erin Kaufold, Senior Executive Assistant at Ramblin Jackson.

If you're a small business owner constantly finding yourself overwhelmed with administrative tasks, staying up late, or sacrificing your weekends, this episode is for you.  

Join us as we dive into the world of executive assistance with Erin Kaufold, our Senior Executive Assistant at Ramblin Jackson. Erin will share invaluable insights on how having an executive assistant can free up your time, enhance your company's performance, and create a better experience for both employees and customers. Discover the key qualities to look for when hiring for this role, as well as Erin's favorite Ramblin Jackson core values. Tune in and explore the power of delegating to increase your productivity and overall satisfaction as a business owner.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/boosting-ceo-bandwidth-the-power-of-a-skilled-executive-assistant

In this episode, we interview Jacob Peffer, the 2023 SIMA Scholarship Award winner, who shares insights on the benefits of the scholarship program, the valuable lessons he's learned from his mentors, the books that have shaped his mindset, and an incredible story of his first time interviewing a potential employee in the snow and landscape industry.

Have you ever had the support of a mentor in your snow and landscape company? Or perhaps you've considered coaching someone else? Mentoring can have a profound impact on personal and professional growth, and in today's episode, we'll explore its significance in our industry.

Today, our special guest is Jacob Peffer, the winner of the 2023 SIMA Scholarship Award. I had the pleasure of meeting Jacob at the recent SIMA Symposium, and in our conversation, he gives us a glimpse into the scholarship program itself, what benefits he’s receiving from his various mentors, what he’s learning, and what books have been shaping his mindset. 

Plus, Jacob has a captivating story to tell about his first experience interviewing a potential employee. Check it out!

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/a-conversation-with-sima-foundation-2023-scholarship-winner-jacob-peffer 

Subscribe at https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/ where you'll get our weekly podcast, email newsletter, and invitations to all of our upcoming events.

Get ready for an insightful conversation with Todd Reinhart as he reveals his forward-thinking strategies and his commitment to transforming the snow industry.

How does your snow company handle years where there's not a lot of snow, like certain parts of the country last year? 

Check out this interview with Todd Reinhart, who just presented his innovative approach to handling years with low snowfall in certain parts of the country at the SIMA Symposium. He introduces the concept of a readiness fee, and explains how he has his clients pay a monthly amount that helps cover his company's overhead while also providing cost savings for his clients during high snowfall seasons.

Plus, Todd also shares his vision of completely eliminating riding lawn mowers within the next five years and how he sees the implementation of autonomous mowers as a beneficial shift. A must-listen conversation!

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: 

https://landscapersguide.com/how-to-create-win-win-pricing-strategies-for-snow-removal

Connect with Todd and see the new Reinhart Landscaping & Snow website at https://www.reinhartservices.com/ 

Join host Jack Jostes as he navigates through the Snow Ice Management Association Symposium, featuring intriguing conversations with young industry pioneers, chance encounters on a train, and inspiring business ideas, all aimed at helping grow your snow and landscape company.

Although I can't introduce you to all the remarkable individuals I met at the symposium, I had the privilege of interviewing a handful of truly fascinating people during my time there. Picture this: conversations with some of the youngest minds making waves in the snow and landscape industry, encounters with random but intriguing individuals right here on this train, and an array of business ideas to help you grow in your own snow and landscape company. 

Check out today’s episode to hear the engaging conversations I had with the individuals I encountered during my time at the 2023 SIMA Symposium. All aboard!

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/the-faces-of-the-sima-symposium-inspiring-stories-from-the-snow-and-landscape-industry/

Have you ever gotten beef jerky from me in the mail? Probably! Well, I love sending beef jerky out to my clients and friends, and today I'm excited to interview Field Trip Snacks. They're the jerky company that reliably supplies Ramblin Jackson's Beef Jerky Club. 

Check out today's interview to learn a little bit more about:

• Our core values at Ramblin Jackson
• Why we send out beef jerky 
• How to grow from just an idea to a $10 million company. 

This is a fascinating conversation. I love the story. Check it out. 

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/behind-the-scenes-with-ramblin-jacksons-top-beef-jerky-supplier

Learn which photos to take and when to take them to maximize on your Hell Yes customers!

It's June and it's time to take great photos of your mature green landscapes. 

Right now, every landscape company wants more maintenance clients. It's getting more competitive. Why should your Hell Yes, customers choose you over a competitor? You've got to show them what it's like to hire you with great inspiring photographs, but don't wait until January or December to realize that you need these. Check out today's episode to see which photos you should take now so you win your Hell Yes, customers.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/key-photos-to-take-this-spring-and-summer-to-attract-hell-yes-customers-to-your-landscape-company 

Get the print and videobook at https://treeofgoodfortune.com

Listen to the Audiobook on Audible https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Tree-of-Good-Fortune-Audiobook/B0BQZ2JGCD

Tell me where to ship your beef jerky and Marketing Toolboox! https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox/

Learn how our clients are combating problems in 2023 that you may be facing too!

It's spring 2023, are you getting fewer leads at your snow and landscape company than you have in the past few springs?

 Is the budget that your potential customers have smaller than the past few springs? 

If yes, you're not alone. In today's episode, I'm going to give you some insights from some of my top snow and landscape clients around the country. I'm going to share with you Google Trends. What are people searching now for on Google and how is it different from past springs? 

Maybe you're considering doing Google Ads or doing direct mail, or maybe you're realizing you're going to need to do more marketing in this economy. You're on the right track, and I'm going to share with you some ways that you can create direct response marketing campaigns that create a more measurable response that will help you weather the storm and position your company in the best spot possible. 

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/the-landscapers-guide-to-sales-and-marketing-in-a-normal-economy 

Learn how to give back to your community, build employee relationships, AND get marketing exposure for your landscape company!

Have you ever thought about giving back to your local community by volunteering time with some of your landscape employees? 

Today I volunteered at a local nonprofit in the Denver area with two of the Ramblin Jackson staff who live near me in Colorado. We interview one of the employees from this nonprofit, plus we share a bunch of ideas about how you could get involved with your landscape company by either donating or volunteering. 

Check out today's interview to get some ideas on how you can do that, plus the team-building and marketing benefits that you can get from it.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/how-to-give-back-to-your-community-and-grow-your-business-through-volunteering

Join me for a mastermind conversation on How To Brand Your Sales Process To Get The Owner Out of Sales at the SIMA Symposium Breakfast Jamboree on June 15th. First come first serve. See more at https://landscapersguide.com/sima/

Could you imagine running a tree and landscape company with over $47 million in annual revenue? 

It's something many people dream about, but it also makes them uncomfortable thinking about how would you maintain quality? How would you manage communication? How would you continue doing the things well that got you to your first 20 million? In today's episode, I'm excited to interview one of the branch managers from Southern Botanical, a $47 million plus tree and landscape company from Texas.

Learn more about:

• How they ace the hand-off between departments to increase client retention
• How to get team buy-in on sales goals
• The agenda of their weekly branch huddles 
• And why communication is a key to their success + the one email they send every week 

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/the-essential-elements-of-southern-botanicals-47m-sales-culture

Join me for a mastermind conversation on How To Brand Your Sales Process To Get The Owner Out of Sales at the SIMA Symposium Breakfast Jamboree on June 15th. First come first serve. See more at landscapers.com/sima

The demands on snow and ice contractors are higher than ever. Large accounts want faster response times, accurate documentation, and proof of service. Driving site to site is slow, costly, and leaves room for disputes.

In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, Jack Jostes talks with Christopher Lareau, founder of Vue Robotics, about how AI-powered weather cameras are changing the way contractors manage portfolios and deliver service.

You’ll learn:

• How AI cameras give contractors real-time visibility across hundreds of sites
• Why trail cams and traditional monitoring cannot compete with AI weather data
• How service verification reduces risk and helps win larger accounts

If you want to prepare your company for the future of snow and ice management, listen now.

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/ 

Get your free beef jerky sample: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox 

Vue Robotics: https://vuerobotics.io/ 

Connect with Christopher Lareau: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherlareau/ 

See upcoming live and virtual events: https://landscapersguide.com/events 

Have you ever thought about building up your company to a point where you could sell it? 

It’s something most entrepreneurs dream of. Today I’m excited to interview one of my best friends, Dave Summers, about how he successfully built up Urban Energy Group and sold it. Since I've known Dave for nearly thirty years we talk about some of our childhood experiences, how we got in trouble as kids, and why many troublemakers might end up being entrepreneurs. We talk about some of the books that we’ve read and the key systems and processes that Dave built that helped him eventually sell his company, what is he up to next now that he’s sold his company. Check out today’s interview to hear Dave’s story.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/do-troublemakers-become-successful-entrepreneurs/

Check out the songs Jack and Dave recorded here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10103864729403294&type=3

Do you grade your commercial landscape clients? 

Well, in today's podcast interview, I talk with the director of sales from a company that does over 10 million in revenue about why they grade their clients A, B, and Cs, and then onboard all new employees, regardless of their prior experience, on the C accounts. Plus, they share how they create a healthy internal competition amongst their staff to advance on a clearly-communicated career ladder.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/how-to-build-a-career-ladder-grade-your-clients

Join me on Wednesday, May 10th, for my live webinar with Team Engine, How to Write Killer Landscape Job Ads That Get a Response. Register online at landscapersguide.com/events.

In today's video podcast, I'm going to replay the Q&A from my live webinar Maximizing Profits With Mergers & Acquisitions for Snow + Landscape Companies with Christeen Era and Steve Bousquet from Green Profit Academy. 

The audience asked incredible questions all about how to run profitable mergers and acquisitions, including:

• How Do Vision, Mission, And Culture Impact Mergers and Acquisitions? 
• Can You Just Pay A Referral Fee When You're Buying A Company?
• Can Landscape Companies Buy/Sell Client Lists?
• How Do Potential Buyers Evaluate Each Division Of Your Business?
• How To Onboard Employees When Acquiring A New Company?
• And more!

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/top-eight-landscape-merger-and-acquisition-questions-answered

Join me on Wednesday, May 10th, for my live webinar with Team Engine, How to Write Killer Landscape Job Ads That Get a Response. Register online at landscapersguide.com/events.

Showing off your best landscape portfolio with professional photographs is a key part of attracting highly qualified leads to your lawn and landscape company, but should you take photos on your iPhone or use professional photographers? I actually recommend a combination of both. In fact, in this video podcast, I'm recording the intro right now on my iPhone, and the rest of the podcast, I shot with my DSLR camera. The key though is setting up a good shot and doing it well. 

Check out today's podcast, where I interview a professional landscape photographer Corey Kline who's going to give you tips on how to take excellent photos with your smartphone and what to look for when you're hiring a photographer so you end up getting the best results from your photography!

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

If you're new to Ramblin Jackson and you'd like to have a marketing conversation to learn more about how we can help you design a marketing plan that generates more of your hell-yes customers, just reach out at landscapersguide.com/brainstorm to book your 15-minute marketing brainstorm. 

Have you ever wanted to market your landscape company to high-end architects and landscape designers who then refer your company for the actual installation and construction? 

While building those relationships can absolutely take time, check out today's podcast interview with guest, Ian McCarthy, who shares how he's shortened this process using a proven method with easy steps that helped him get to over $10 million in revenue in just under five years. 

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/how-to-build-relationships-with-new-designers-and-architects

Get the Landscaper's Marketing Field Guide, with some beef jerky at https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox 

Have you ever submitted a quote to Mrs. Jones for $43,000 and she says, "Well, I have $40,000," and you cave and take it only to realize that you essentially did the job for free? 

In today's podcast I interview Weston Zimmerman from SynkedUP, who shares two things that sabotage company profits and how to prevent them!

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Learn more about SynkedUP: https://synkedup.com/

Get the budgeting tool worksheet: https://synkedup.com/get-the-budgeting-tool/

Have you ever wondered how you can keep your best people on your team? 

I was on the ski hill where I interviewed one of my clients, one employee of mine who's worked with me for five years, and the account executive from a recruiting and retention software company. In today’s episode, we're going to share our top tips for retaining your employees, plus a review of the burger we had while we were up there.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Check out Team Engine at landscapersguide.com/teamengine, you can get 30% off your first three months. It's incredible software. One of our clients literally filled their staff in February using it, and now they're using the text message function to do updates to their team, like a text message newsletter!

If you run a snow and landscape company or any small business for that matter, it's absolutely essential that you, the owner, have a strong grasp on your finances, your cash flow, and on your profitability. It can totally feel overwhelming. I know it was for me as I was growing and that's why I interviewed Christeen Era on today's podcast, the author of Profit First for Lawn Care and Landscape Businesses. 

Christeen's going to share actionable insights on cash flow management, pricing, marketing budgets, and a whole lot more.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Join me on Christeen's webinar series where I'll be presenting the Tree of Good Fortune: The Landscapers Guide to Modern Sales & Marketing and doing some live Q&A with Christeen. Check that out at landscapersguide.com/events

If you run a snow and landscape company or any small business for that matter, it's absolutely essential that, you, the owner have a strong grasp on your finances, on your cash flow, and on your profitability. It can totally feel overwhelming. I know it was for me as I was growing and that's why I interviewed Christeen Era on today's podcast, the author of Profit First for Lawn Care and Landscape Businesses. 

Christeen's going to share actionable insights on cash flow management, pricing, marketing budgets, and a whole lot more.

Check out Part 2 of this interview, available as an audio-only podcast!
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3n7SCvVXcwEtuIQ3DIx6Tt?si=TTDYBpA0TBezMYPKba1Agw
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/intro-to-profit-first-for-lawn-care-and-landscape/id1503255039?i=1000604604105

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/intro-to-profit-first-for-lawn-care-and-landscape-businesses-with-christeen-era/

If you're listening to this before March 21st, join me on Christeen's webinar series where I'll be presenting the Tree of Good Fortune: The Landscapers Guide to Modern Sales & Marketing and doing some live Q&A with Christeen. Check that out at https://landscapersguide.com/events

Video produced by Ramblin Jackson, The Snow & Landscape Marketing Agency

Ramblin Jackson
(303) 544-2125
https://ramblinjackson.com/

Landscape company owners and business people all over the country are talking about culture, how to create a culture. In today's interview with Jim Martin, we share how he's grown beyond just success into significance through creating scholarships for the employees of his company. 

Check out today's interview to learn more about how he did that and the one thing Jim always carries with him when he goes whitewater rafting all over the world.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

AI search is moving fast! And it’s already changing how homeowners discover local landscape companies.

In this episode of The Landscaper’s Guide, host Jack Jostes reveals the three massive shifts happening right now in summer 2025 that every landscaper needs to know to stay visible in this competitive market.

Listen to the full episode, where we dive into:

• How Bing plays a surprising role in ChatGPT search results
• Why first-party reviews can give you an edge in AI rankings
• How short-form videos from TikTok, Instagram, and more are now showing up in Google search

If you want your snow and landscape business to show up in AI search, attract more qualified leads, and stay ahead of the curve, this episode will give you the blueprint you need for an amazing fall harvest.

Show Notes:

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/ 

Tell us where to send your beef jerky: https://landscapersguide.com/toolbox

Book your 15-minute marketing brainstorm: https://landscapersguide.com/brainstorm 

See upcoming live + virtual events: https://landscapersguide.com/events 

With only a few weeks until spring officially starts. I wanted to ask some of the top sales and marketing and operations experts in the green industry, what's your number one tip to get ready for spring in 2023? 

Check out today's episode, I'm going to interview some people about sales, marketing, recruiting for office positions with LinkedIn and personality assessments, and a whole lot more!

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

We’re in the Time To Thrive and we have three key, NEW ideas  that you must learn THIS SPRING to kick the year off strong while retaining as many employees as possible, learn more at WinTheSpring.com

When it comes to commercial snow removal, which is better, self-performing or working with trade partners? If you go the trade partner route, how do you recruit new subcontractors to your company when nearly everyone with that business model is trying to find them? 

Check out today's episode to hear directly from the co-founder of a now $25 million commercial snow and landscape company about how they've grown and an interesting mindset around competition that he believes has been a key to his success.

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Save your seat for Win The Spring, a half-day virtual workshop where you’ll learn new ideas to kick the year off strong while retaining as many employees as possible. WinTheSpring.com

How can you turn your competition into a referral source? Find out in today's interview with Scott Parker from Parker Landscape Design. Plus, find out which of Scott's pets escaped from his dorm in college and what it ate. It's pretty scary. Find out in the episode!

Watch the full episode + see the transcript at: https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/

Subscribe to the podcast at https://landscapersguide.com/podcast/ and I will send you our top three sales and marketing podcasts to help you grow your business right away!