Million Dollar Landscaper

In this replay episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan sits down with Laura Reale of AquaReale and BlueGreen Marketing to uncover the secrets to building and retaining a stellar landscaping team that’s motivated, loyal, and ready to grow with your business. Laura shares her proven strategies for overcoming the challenges of hiring and keeping great employees in an industry notorious for high turnover. From crafting better job ads to creating a work culture employees don’t want to leave, this episode is packed with practical, no-nonsense advice you can start using today.   Laura breaks down how to: Write job ads that attract the right candidates (instead of wasting time on the wrong ones). Avoid common interview pitfalls and ask the questions that really matter. Build a team culture that values employees and keeps them engaged. Show appreciation in simple, meaningful ways that make a big impact.   Plus, Laura shares her unique approach to fostering loyalty—even getting em

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan breaks down a step-by-step process for delivering professional landscaping estimates that help you stand out, win more jobs, and increase profits. Scott dives into the entire estimating process—from the moment you pull up to a customer’s property to presenting a polished quote that builds trust and closes deals. Whether you’re new to the estimating game or looking to tighten up your process, this episode is full of practical tips that’ll set you apart from the “Chuck in a Truck” competitors. Scott shares how to: Make a killer first impression (because details like parking and appearance matter). Build trust through great communication and open-ended questions. Use checklists to avoid costly mistakes and ensure no detail is missed. Help customers visualize their project with simple, creative tools. Set clear expectations for your process, timeline, and pricing. Plus, Scott reveals one game-changing tip: delivering your est

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Kati Molchan dives into a topic that’s shaking up the landscaping world: artificial intelligence (AI) and how tools like ChatGPT can transform your business.   Kati tackles the common misconceptions landscapers have about AI—"It doesn’t mow lawns or dig holes, so why bother?"—and explains why embracing ChatGPT can help simplify your day-to-day operations, save time, and reduce stress.   From drafting professional emails to creating job descriptions, generating seasonal marketing content, and brainstorming new services, ChatGPT is a versatile tool that can get 80% of the work done for you—leaving you to polish it with your expertise. Kati also shares practical tips for using ChatGPT in your business, from building FAQs for your website to creating client newsletters and even designing training materials for your crew.   This episode isn’t about replacing the hard work you already do—it’s about using AI as an assistant to make running your landscapi

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan sits down with Ezra McCarthy, founder of Green Frog Web Design, to tackle a critical topic for landscapers: goal setting and planning for 2025.   Scott and Ezra discuss why so many landscapers find themselves stuck year after year and how setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals can change the game. Using real-world examples, they explore how reviewing 2024’s wins and challenges can help you set clear goals, track your progress, and overcome obstacles like client acquisition costs, lead generation, and workflow bottlenecks.   This episode dives deep into practical strategies for landscapers, including breaking down long-term goals into manageable steps, measuring key performance indicators (KPIs), and avoiding the common mistakes that keep most people from following through. Ezra also shares the importance of tracking leads, measuring results, and leveraging tools like CRMs and goal-tracking apps t

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan reflects on Thanksgiving and dives into one of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of running a landscaping business: making sure your pricing includes your paycheck.   Scott shares why Gross Profit alone isn’t enough to measure your success and explains how overlooking Net Profit—and failing to pay yourself a livable wage—can leave your business struggling to grow. Using real-world examples, he uncovers the common mistakes landscapers make when reviewing their Profit & Loss statements and why it’s critical to account for all overhead costs, including your own paycheck.   But this episode isn’t just about identifying the problems—it’s about finding solutions. Scott introduces the Cash Flow & Grow program, a comprehensive system designed to help landscapers calculate their true costs, price jobs for profit, and ensure they’re paying themselves a livable wage.  

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan dives into one of the most common yet misunderstood challenges landscapers face: why hard work and solid Gross Profit margins aren’t translating into a healthy bank account.   Scott shares a recent conversation with a client whose Gross Profit margin sat at a respectable 47%, but with a Net Profit of just 2%, they were on the brink of financial trouble. Through this real-world example, Scott unpacks the dangerous myth that focusing only on Gross Profit is enough to run a profitable business and explains why ignoring Net Profit and overhead costs can leave you scrambling year after year.   This episode goes beyond just identifying the problem—it’s about offering solutions. Scott introduces the Landscaping Pricing Calculator, a tool designed to help landscapers factor in all their costs and price their work for profitability. With built-in group coaching, this resource ensures you’re not just guessing at your numbers but truly understa

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan sits down with Mike Andes to tackle one of the most pressing challenges for landscapers today: hiring and keeping reliable team members in a tough labor market. With 155 Augusta Lawn Care locations and a proven track record of success, Mike has implemented groundbreaking strategies that go beyond traditional hiring tactics—strategies any landscaping business owner can benefit from.   Mike dives deep into how Augusta Lawn Care uses pay-for-performance to incentivize productivity, builds a culture of accountability through profit sharing, and practices open book management to create transparency with his team. He explains how these innovative approaches not only attract quality employees but also inspire them to work harder and stay longer, helping Augusta Lawn Care stand out in a crowded industry.   Scott and Mike also explore the realities of the current labor market, discussing why finding skilled labor has become so challenging and

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan tackles a topic that every landscaping business owner can benefit from as the year winds down: how to finish strong and set yourself up for a profitable 2025. With the season wrapping up and many landscapers finding it tougher to sell work this year, Scott dives into strategies that can make all the difference.   Scott shares how to leverage your year-end data—going beyond basic profit and loss statements—to pinpoint which services and clients brought in the most value. He explains how understanding this information can help you set realistic, revenue-driving goals and make smarter business decisions for the year ahead. From pricing strategies to effective scheduling, Scott provides actionable tips to help you avoid common pitfalls like underpricing or overbooking. You’ll also hear valuable marketing advice on reaching your ideal clients. Scott emphasizes the power of Google reviews, the importance of showcasing your expertise throug

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, hosts Kati and Scott Molchan dive into a common challenge for landscaping business owners: unclear roles and responsibilities. When everyone’s on a different page, tasks fall through the cracks, tensions rise, and efficiency takes a hit. But with the right structure and communication, you can turn things around—no matter the size of your team.   Scott and Kati share insights from a recent coaching call where they helped a client clarify roles for their Crew Leaders, Operations Managers, and Owners. They break down exactly what each role should focus on daily, from crew oversight to handling client requests and tracking hours. For smaller teams or solo operators who wear multiple hats, they’ve got you covered too, with tips on prioritizing, delegating, and managing all the moving parts.   You’ll learn actionable steps for creating job clarity and setting clear expectations, so your team knows what “success” looks like in their roles. Plus, they discuss

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, hosts Kati and Scott Molchan talk about one of the biggest roadblocks business owners face: perfectionism. We’ve all been there—caught up in the idea that everything needs to be perfect before we take action. But what if you gave yourself permission to “do it dirty”? Kati and Scott break down how perfectionism, often rooted in fear, can hold you back in your business and personal life. They share personal stories, like how perfectionism has impacted their marketing efforts and why it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. In this episode, they explore how to overcome perfectionism by focusing on progress over perfection. You’ll learn actionable tips, like asking yourself what you're afraid of, what could really happen if things aren't perfect, and how to define what "good enough" looks like to get unstuck. Plus, Scott shares his experience of letting go of control and how it’s made a big difference in their business. Whether you struggle with handing t

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan takes on a critical topic for landscapers: understanding the difference between gross and net profit. Scott shares a recent conversation with a landscaper who was working long hours and struggling to make $60,000 a year. The landscaper had heard others in the industry talk about charging 30-50% profit and wondered if they were doing something wrong. Scott clears up the confusion by explaining the key differences between gross and net profit—and why aiming for 15-20% net profit is a healthy and realistic goal. In this episode, Scott breaks down how to calculate both gross and net profit and explains why many landscapers are likely quoting gross profit numbers, not net. He also warns listeners about the dangers of taking advice from others who may not know their own numbers, especially when it comes to what’s being said online. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your pricing or wondered if you’re leaving money on the table, this episode

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, hosts Kati & Scott Molchan dive into a topic every business owner faces: getting things done, even when you don’t feel like it.   We’ve all been there—days when you’re tired, unmotivated, or just plain over it. But as a business owner, there are moments when you simply can’t call it quits. Kati shares personal stories, including helping their son Ben prepare for the Pipefitters Exam, and explains how to push through those tough days when you’d rather do anything else.   In this episode, Kati breaks down how shifting your mindset and expectations can make all the difference. He covers how you don’t always need to feel motivated to take action—sometimes, the action itself will bring the motivation. You’ll also hear strategies on how to catch negative thoughts and shift them into something more productive, using gratitude to power through. Whether you’re struggling to finish a project or feeling burned out, this episode is packed with real-world advic

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan tackles a topic that can transform your landscaping business—multi-channel marketing.   Scott addresses one of the biggest mistakes landscapers make: relying solely on word-of-mouth marketing. While referrals are great, they're just not enough to consistently keep your calendar full. That's where multi-channel marketing comes in.   In this episode, Scott breaks down why using a variety of marketing methods—like social media, email, Facebook ads, postcards, and door hangers—can give you a huge advantage over the competition. He shares real-world examples of how each channel works to attract clients, build your brand, and fill your schedule with high-quality jobs year-round.   You'll also learn how to test and track your marketing efforts, so you can fine-tune your strategy and invest in what’s working. Whether you're just getting started or looking to level up your marketing game, this episode is packed with actionable advice.   If yo

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan dives into one of the most critical topics for landscapers: pricing your work. Scott addresses the number one question landscapers face—how much should I charge?—and provides real, actionable strategies to stop underpricing and start running a profitable business.   Scott breaks down the key challenges landscapers face, like underestimating time and labor, not accounting for overhead, and competing with low-ballers. He also shares his personal story of struggling with business knowledge, only to realize that understanding financial documents like profit and loss statements and cash flow is crucial to getting pricing right.   Throughout the episode, Scott offers tips on improving your pricing strategy, from tracking job costs to leveraging technology and software to create accurate estimates. He emphasizes the importance of communicating your value to customers and why competing on quality, not just price, is the key to long-term succ

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan sits down with Michael Fortinberry, co-founder of Protiv, to discuss how building a strong company culture is the foundation for any successful landscaping business. Michael introduces the concept of performance pay and explains how aligning incentives with performance can transform your team’s motivation and engagement. Together, Scott and Michael dive into the challenges landscapers face with employee retention, accountability, and productivity, and how focusing on culture can help solve these issues. Michael shares stories from his own business experience, showing how performance pay encourages teamwork, quality, and efficiency, all while improving company culture. He also breaks down how Protiv’s software makes implementing performance-based incentives easy and effective, no matter the size of your crew.   If you’re looking to build a motivated, accountable team and improve your company culture, this episode is packed with action

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan sits down with Charlie Felker, co-founder of Free2Grow, to explore how AI voice technology is reshaping customer service in the landscaping industry. As many landscapers struggle to keep up with incoming calls while juggling multiple tasks, Charlie introduces a game-changing solution that can ensure no customer call goes unanswered. Charlie shares his journey from running a home service business to developing a 24/7 AI voice tool designed to streamline customer interactions, boost efficiency, and help landscaping businesses stay ahead of the competition. They dive deep into the pros and cons of AI, addressing common concerns from landscapers about losing the personal touch and the importance of consistency in customer service. If you're tired of missing calls and potential clients, this episode is a must-listen. Discover how AI can revolutionize your customer service, improve your bottom line, and give you an edge over your competito

In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, host Scott Molchan sits down with Charlie Felker, co-founder of Free2Grow, to explore how AI voice technology is reshaping customer service in the landscaping industry. As many landscapers struggle to keep up with incoming calls while juggling multiple tasks, Charlie introduces a game-changing solution that can ensure no customer call goes unanswered. Charlie shares his journey from running a home service bus iness to developing a 24/7 AI voice tool designed to streamline customer interactions, boost efficiency, and help landscaping businesses stay ahead of the competition. They dive deep into the pros and cons of AI, addressing common concerns from landscapers about losing the personal touch and the importance of consistency in customer service. If you're tired of missing calls and potential clients, this episode is a must-listen. Discover how AI can revolutionize your customer service, improve your bottom line, and give you an edge over your competit

Are you struggling to keep your landscaping crew busy during the slow season? Don’t wait until your calendar is empty—it's time to take action! In this episode of the Million Dollar Landscaper Podcast, Scott Molchan dives into the importance of consistent marketing and how it can save your business from those dreaded slow periods.   We’ll discuss a real-life scenario from one of our coaching clients who’s facing a potential furlough due to a lack of upcoming jobs. Discover how a consistent marketing strategy could have kept their pipeline full and their crew working.   You’ll learn actionable, cost-effective marketing strategies that you can implement today, from door hangers and yard signs to social media posts and email campaigns. Whether you’re looking to maintain steady work or avoid the slow season altogether, this episode is packed with tips to help you grow your landscaping business.   Plus, don’t miss out on our free Q3 Marketing Plan, designed to help you stay consistent with your marketing efforts.

Email marketing is a powerful tool for businesses because it allows you to reach your audience directly in their inbox, where they're most likely to engage. It's cost-effective, easy to set up, and lets you tailor your messages to specific groups, making your campaigns more personal and effective. With the right tools, you can automate much of the process, track your results in real time, and adjust your strategy to maximize impact—all with minimal effort. "On this week's episode, Scott and Kati discuss email marketing, specifically how easy it is to do!"   QUESTION —What email marketing software do you use? Let us know on our Facebook Page.  

While word-of-mouth advertising can be a powerful tool for a landscaping business, relying solely on it can limit our growth potential. To reach a broader audience, and stay competitive in an increasingly digital market, it's important to diversify our marketing efforts.   On this weeks episode, Scott talks about the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to marketing in order to ensure our businesses' visibility and profitability.