The Green Grind Podcast

The Green Grind podcast Episode 235

This week, Kory and LeRoy sit down with industry veteran Kevin Salters and financial expert Joey Coberly from Lawn Care Launch to tackle the biggest mistakes new lawn care and landscaping business owners make — and how to avoid them. Kevin shares his journey from running a $6M commercial maintenance company to coaching small operators, while Joey brings a financial lens to help owners understand their numbers and build businesses that don’t just generate revenue but actually create profit. Together, they break down common traps like underpricing, overleveraging debt, and failing to track key metrics like gross margin and revenue per man hour. They dive into why culture starts with the owner, why communication with your spouse and team is critical, and how to build systems and SOPs that let you step back and scale. If you’re starting or growing your green industry business, this episode is packed with real-world advice on pricing, financial management, leadership, and building a company that works for you — not the other way around. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard

The Green Grind Podcast Episode 234

In this episode of The Green Grind, Kory and LeRoy sit down with Bob Scott, owner of Lowe’s Greenhouse in Bainbridge, Ohio. Bob shares how he and his partner transitioned from running a small landscape design/build company to acquiring a third-generation greenhouse and garden center. The conversation dives deep into the complexities and opportunities of vertical integration in the green industry — from growing and selling plants to running retail, landscaping, floral, and greenhouse operations all under one roof. Bob explains the pros and cons of owning the supply chain, the challenges of managing diverse departments, and the lessons learned from growing the team from 12 to 65 employees. Listeners will also hear about navigating retail trends, balancing overhead with efficiency, and building a resilient business model where multiple departments support one another. Whether you’re running a small landscape crew or leading a multi-division operation, Bob’s insights on leadership, systems, and customer experience will spark ideas for growth. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard  

The Green Grind Podcast Episode 233

In this episode, Kory and LeRoy welcome Kirstin Mains back to The Green Grind to dive deep into one of the most important topics for any business owner: getting out of your own way. Fresh off their trip to the Landscaper event in Charlotte, the crew unpacks why so many owners become the bottleneck in their business and how to fix it. They discuss building systems that scale, empowering team members to take ownership, and focusing on vision over chaos. You’ll also hear about the new AI tools being developed for the green industry, the importance of setting short- and long-term goals, and how sharing your vision with your team can transform company culture. Whether you’re running a $250k business or a $5M one, this episode is packed with practical advice on breaking free from control-freak tendencies, reducing burnout, and leading your team toward growth. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard Join 800 landscapers at the LeanScaper Finance Intensive in Dallas, Sept. 15–16, and build a three year plan with AI, robotics, and smart investments to scale profits and increase your company's value. https://leanscaper.com/financial-blueprint-intensive?utm_source=apple_podcasts&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=event_promotion&utm_content=TheGreenGrindPodcast_finance_intensive

The Green Grind Podcast Episode 232

In this episode, Kory and LeRoy sit down with Aaron Suttenfield, founder of A&D Suttenfield Landscaping, to explore the role of faith, family, and values in building a successful business from the ground up. Aaron shares his journey—from mowing grass in high school to leading a full-service landscape company—and how staying true to his principles has shaped every part of his business. With a strong focus on customer service, employee relationships, and doing the right thing (even when it’s hard), Aaron explains how he built a business that reflects more than just financial goals. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard Join 800 landscapers at the LeanScaper Finance Intensive in Dallas, Sept. 15–16, and build a three year plan with AI, robotics, and smart investments to scale profits and increase your company's value. https://leanscaper.com/financial-blueprint-intensive?utm_source=apple_podcasts&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=event_promotion&utm_content=TheGreenGrindPodcast_finance_intensive

The Green Grind Podcast Episode 231

In this episode, Kory and LeRoy are joined by Adam Fullerton, a marketing strategist and creative agency owner who helps service-based businesses cut through the noise and actually connect with customers. Adam breaks down what most companies get wrong about marketing—and how to fix it. From storytelling and brand consistency to knowing your audience and crafting the right message, Adam offers practical strategies you can apply right now to grow your business the smart way. Free Trial and 20% off Jobber for 6 months: go.getjobber.com/ballardinc Need a website? Use the code GreenGrind to get your first month for $1.  https://www.greenfrogwebdesign.com/koryballard Join 800 landscapers at the LeanScaper Finance Intensive in Dallas, Sept. 15–16, and build a three year plan with AI, robotics, and smart investments to scale profits and increase your company's value. https://leanscaper.com/financial-blueprint-intensive?utm_source=apple_podcasts&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=event_promotion&utm_content=TheGreenGrindPodcast_finance_intensive