Épisodes

  • "Why I'm ONLY Doing Quotes In My Landscaping Business On Monday's Now"

    "Why I'm ONLY Doing Quotes In My Landscaping Business On Monday's Now"
    Feb 6 2025
    In this episode, Keith opens up about the rollercoaster ride of building and running his own landscaping business. You’ll hear about why he now schedules all his landscaping quotes for Mondays. It's part of a strategy to bring more sanity into his hectic schedule and ensure that he’s not just drowning in work but enjoying life. Keith dives into those early days of hardcore hustle when he was grinding seven days a week to keep things afloat. Whether you’re in the landscaping business or any other venture, you probably know the strain it can put on your personal life — missing dinners with family and events with friends. That's where his newfound love for batching tasks comes in. By tackling quotes all in one day, he's improved efficiency and reclaimed some downtime. He also doesn’t shy away from the challenges—like managing employees, dealing with unexpected problems, and the nerve-wracking task of raising prices. These are real-talk moments that many small business owners face, and Keith shares his journey with humor and honesty. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or starting, Keith’s stories about figuring out how to make better money in less time and dealing with the daily chaos of running a business will resonate. He wraps it all up with a reminder to be grateful, stay committed, and always keep pushing forward. So, grab your headphones, get comfy, and enjoy this episode full of real-life insights and inspiration! Check out these episode highlights: 00:00 - Adopting Batching for Efficiency and Balance 03:24 - Monday Quote-Only System Success 06:28 - "Struggles in Legalizing Small Businesses" 13:14 - "Seeking Rock Star Employees" 14:55 - Launching New Crew: Monday Rollout Plan 20:55 - Newlywed Arguments and Hurt Feelings 24:41- Prioritize Selfishness for Business Success 28:05 - Weekend Motivation and Mike Andes Recognition Key Takeaways: Efficient Batching: Discover how dedicating a single day to client quotes can enhance your time management, allowing for deeper focus and increased productivity throughout the week. Work-Life Balance: Transitioning quotes to a fixed schedule has helped reclaim personal time without sacrificing business success, marking a significant shift towards a healthier work-life balance. Growth through Challenges: Hear stories on navigating the complexities of scaling a business, from handling employee challenges to making tough pricing decisions while maintaining a committed and grateful mindset. Resources and Websites: Unstrapped Alliance - https://www.keithkalfas.com/alliance 🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇 Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs LANDSCAPING BUSINESS How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16 Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence Multiple Ways to Monetize: https://www.keithkalfas.com/multipleways LevelUp Your Landscaping Business to $100K and beyond: https://www.keithkalfas.com/LEVELUP Transcript (Note: this was transcribed using transcription software and may not reflect the exact words used in the podcast) Keith Kalfas [00:00:07]: We're live. What's up? This is Keith Kalfus with the Unstrapped podcast. Hope you guys are doing awesome. In this video, I wanna talk about why I'm only doing landscaping quotes on Mondays now in my business. And I hope you're doing well. I hope you're enjoying your week. This is that time of year where you're over the hump, over the hundred days of hell, they call it, from the break of the spring in, like, April 1 all the way to July 4 where you're running nonstop to just book out as many clients as you can and get the business to a just a good positive cash flow. If you notice that in the first few months of the season in your business, you're not really clearing much of a profit because if your business is anything like mine, you've got year-end taxes, then first quarter taxes, all your insurance policies are renewing. Keith Kalfas [00:00:58]: And the next thing you know, you have a ton of expense. Then coming into, like, late June and then in July, that's when you break into the profit. And then just that you gotta hustle. It's like getting a plane off the ground. But, nonetheless, I was always doing quotes on Saturdays and Saturdays only, working six, seven days a week in my landscape business, seven days a week for sure, the first three years just to get the business off the ground, then five years always constantly working. And I know you guys know what that's like. You're hustling. And let me know if you can hear me ...
    Voir plus Voir moins
    30 min
  • Landscaping Customer Tried to Trick Me Into Doing Free Work

    Landscaping Customer Tried to Trick Me Into Doing Free Work
    Feb 4 2025
    In this live episode, Keith Kalfas dives into the realities of running a landscape business, especially when dealing with customers who try to get free work. He shares hard-earned lessons on setting boundaries, valuing your services, and handling tough conversations with confidence. Reflecting on his journey from solopreneur to business owner, Keith explores the internal challenges and strategic shifts needed for long-term success. He also discusses his passion for personal growth, continuous learning, and the books that have shaped his mindset. Whether you're in the service industry or looking to level up your business, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world experience. "Success in business isn’t just about skill—it’s about setting boundaries, valuing your work, and having the tough conversations. Growth starts with self-awareness, a strong mindset, and the willingness to evolve." - Keith Topics Covered: Customer Tricks and Free Work Starting a Landscape Business Learning to Say No Handling Extra Work Requests The Importance of Boundaries Dealing with Difficult Conversations Books and Resources for Growth The Victim Mindset Personal Growth and Business Challenges Promoting Books and Services Audiobooks and Learning from Giants Consumer Mindset and Value Perception Engaging with the Audience Studio Setup Tips Streaming and Podcasting Insights Turning Passion into Profit Customer Follow-Up Strategies Business Growth and Pricing Balancing Work and Personal Life Virtual Receptionists and Service Efficiency Key Takeaways Customer Interactions and Boundaries: It's crucial to establish clear boundaries with customers to avoid being taken advantage of. Keith emphasizes the importance of not agreeing to do extra work for free and always maintaining a professional attitude. Business and Personal Growth: Transitioning from an employee to a business owner involves significant internal and external challenges. Personal growth, learning to say "no," and having difficult conversations are part of the entrepreneurial journey. Understanding True Value: Keith discusses the difference between being nice and being a pushover. It's essential to recognize your worth and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your work. Confronting Fear and Uncomfortable Situations: Overcoming burnout and maintaining sanity in your business requires facing fears and discomfort head-on. Practicing difficult conversations and setting boundaries are key. Intellectual Investments: Keith highlights the importance of continuous learning through books and resources to improve both personally and professionally. He recommends several books, indicating how these resources have helped him. Balancing Business and Personal Life: He talks about maintaining a healthy work-life balance, emphasizing regular date nights with his wife and not letting business stress affect personal life. Digital and Online Presence: Building a substantial online presence, including multiple YouTube channels and using social media strategically, can significantly bolster a business's visibility and credibility. Pricing and Services: Keith gives practical advice on setting prices for services such as mulch installation, stressing the importance of considering all factors, including hidden costs, to avoid financial losses. Philosophical and Spiritual Insights: Keith delves into deeper philosophical and spiritual reflections on life, consciousness, and business practices, encouraging a holistic approach to entrepreneurship. Connect with Keith Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keithkalfas/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelandscapingemployeetrap Website: https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@keith-kalfas Resources and Websites: 🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇 Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs LANDSCAPING BUSINESS How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16 Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs Get Ballard: https://www.ballard-inc.com/ Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence Multiple Ways to Monetize: https://www.keithkalfas.com/multipleways LevelUp Your Landscaping Business to $100K and beyond: https://www.keithkalfas.com/LEVELUP
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 8 min
  • Lawn Care vs Landscaping - Can You Do Both Full-time? Live with MACK

    Lawn Care vs Landscaping - Can You Do Both Full-time? Live with MACK
    Jan 27 2025
    In this episode, Keith Kalfas and Mack explores the challenges and strategies of balancing lawn care and landscaping services. It features a discussion between two lawn care business owners on the benefits and fears of transitioning to landscaping, focusing on how to streamline services and manage both effectively. They discuss how to schedule and price recurring maintenance, charge for additional services like shrub trimming, and ensure steady revenue without overwhelming their small crew. The conversation emphasizes the importance of a consistent, stress-free approach, customer loyalty, and the value of confidence in business operations. They also touch on the influence of sports on handling rejection, the significance of Google for marketing, and the emotional aspects of running a business. Inspirational anecdotes about overcoming challenges and keeping a positive, confident mindset round out the dialogue. " If you don't get on Google, you are shooting yourself in the foot. You're really killing yourself. If you talk confidently, then you can charge anything." - Mack Topics Covered: Lawn Care vs. Landscaping: Can You Do Both? Transitioning and Structuring Services Pricing and Customer Management The Power of Confidence in Business Marketing and ReputationHandling Challenges and Embracing Company CultureCommunity and Personal Growth Key Takeaways Team Resilience and Positivity: The ability to laugh about difficult situations, such as being soaked after a rainstorm, indicates a positive and resilient attitude among team members. This kind of environment can foster a supportive and resilient workforce. Emotional Fulfillment: Working together in demanding conditions can lead to emotional fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment. The hardships shared build stronger connections, making the work more than just a job but an enriching experience. Shared Experiences Foster Trust: Trust is built through shared experiences and overcoming obstacles together. When team members know they can rely on each other in adverse conditions, it strengthens their overall bond and trust in one another. Cultural Significance of Teamwork: The repeated reference to tribal importance suggests that teamwork in this industry goes beyond practical collaboration, encompassing cultural and personal significance. This cultural aspect underlines the depth of connections formed within the team. Connect with Mack Podcast: On the Attack with Mack Podcast Podcast: Lawn Care Power Moves Youtube: Mack Landscaping and Lawn Care Connect with Keith Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keithkalfas/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelandscapingemployeetrap Website: https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@keith-kalfas Resources and Websites: 🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇 Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs LANDSCAPING BUSINESS How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16 Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs Get Ballard: https://www.ballard-inc.com/ Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence Multiple Ways to Monetize: https://www.keithkalfas.com/multipleways LevelUp Your Landscaping Business to $100K and beyond: https://www.keithkalfas.com/LEVELUP
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 2 min
  • When You See With "Eyes of Equity" The Things you See Change | IDENTITY SHIFT

    When You See With "Eyes of Equity" The Things you See Change | IDENTITY SHIFT
    Jan 26 2025
    After his recent trip to Atlanta for a speaking gig, Keith's got some fresh insights about how the way we see ourselves can really shape our success. He's breaking down the difference between a scarcity mindset that holds you back and an abundant mindset that drives success. Keith shares some personal stories and drops some knowledge bombs on how shifting your identity and aligning with the right energy can totally change your game. If you want to level up in business or life, this episode is packed with tips and wisdom you won't want to miss. Let's dive in! Check out these episode highlights: 00:00 - Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs and Burnout 06:03 - Spiritual Alignment Attracts Positive Opportunities 07:53 - Elevating Identity to Overcome Scarcity Mindset 11:12 - "Exploring Purpose and Seeking Guidance" 14:41 - "Embrace Clarity Through Higher Perspective" Key Takeaways: Identity Dictates Perception: The same piece of information can lead to vastly different outcomes depending on one's mindset. Whether you're stuck in a scarcity mindset or thriving in an abundance-focused one, your identity steers the ship. The Power of Conviction: Aligning with high beliefs and developing strong convictions in your actions can attract the right people and opportunities. Conviction is an unparalleled influence that can't be easily replicated. Faith and Action: Faith isn't just belief; it's action. It's about courage and the commitment to move forward, trusting in your ability to figure things out. This approach opens up new perspectives and higher levels of opportunity. Resources and Websites: 🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇 Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs LANDSCAPING BUSINESS How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16 Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence Multiple Ways to Monetize: https://www.keithkalfas.com/multipleways LevelUp Your Landscaping Business to $100K and beyond: https://www.keithkalfas.com/LEVELUP Transcript (Note: this was transcribed using transcription software and may not reflect the exact words used in the podcast) Keith Kalfas [00:00:06]: All right. So this is a shift, a breakthrough that I've been waiting 20 years to figure out. Just came to me now. And just a quick disclaimer: I just got back from a speaking engagement in Atlanta, and I'm sick from traveling. But I didn't even want to make any videos, but I have to document this. So imagine your identity controls everything. You can have a high-quality piece of information. I've been meditating 1 to 2 hours a day and listen to what I'm gonna say. Keith Kalfas [00:00:39]: And if you don't listen, then it's not for you. Your identity controls everything. When I heard things like that, because I didn't understand what that meant, I've heard that stuff a bunch of times. I just push it off. That's not for me. This when the student's ready, the teacher will appear. You can take the same piece of information and put it in front of a 100 different people, and depending on the lens in which they look at it through, you're gonna get a 100 different responses. Do you want me to to go in the studio? Okay. Keith Kalfas [00:01:08]: My wife's right here. She's hot. Anyways, I was like, I wanna do this video right in front of you. Alright. Even better. Take a person who is in a scarcity victim mindset who's just making ends meet, Or maybe they got their own little small business and they're just struggling. And now put them next to a person who has a multiple 6 or 7 figure business. They're a seasoned entrepreneur. Keith Kalfas [00:01:30]: They know marketing. They know production. They know administration. They know how to facilitate. They understand how business works, and they've made a lot of money, and they've been through processes and workflows. And they live in an opportunity-abundant mindset. Right? A different identity. Now give them a piece of information about maybe a great business idea that's relevant. Keith Kalfas [00:01:51]: It'll work. The person who is stuck in the victim scarcity mindset might intellectually be very intelligent and, awake, and understand. They're conscious. They're here and now. They'll understand all the information coming in, and they'll get excited. They're like, yeah. Oh my god. That's a genius idea. Keith Kalfas [00:02:07]: See how I'm looking up? That's a genius idea. Oh my god. I could actually do that. They could get excited. They could start forming plans in their head, and it's great. And as soon as they feel like they're ...
    Voir plus Voir moins
    17 min
  • How to Start a Landscaping Business for Beginners in 2025

    How to Start a Landscaping Business for Beginners in 2025
    Jan 19 2025
    In this episode, Keith explored the crucial skill of discernment in business decisions. He shared insights from his experiences in the landscaping industry, emphasizing that saying no can be more beneficial than saying yes to everything. He discussed the importance of focusing on core services, understanding the risks of overextending, and utilizing smart subcontracting. Success lies in mastering what you do best and making decisions that align with your expertise and capacity. When you narrow down what you offer, you’re not only cutting out stress but also boosting your profits and efficiency. It's about breaking free from those nagging fears and old stories in your head and realizing you don't have to do it all to succeed. And hey, there's more! Keith’s got some exciting updates on what's brewing with the Untrapped Podcast and other projects that are in the pipeline. So, if you’re here for no-nonsense stories and solid tips to make running your biz a breeze, you’re in the right place! Stick around, and let's jump in! Check out these episode highlights: 00:00 - Optimize Landscaping Business Strategy 03:19 - Launching a Landscaping Business 07:12 - Transition to Quieter Battery Trimmers 10:45 - Effective Equipment Management Tips 13:57 - Skill Building and Pricing in Landscaping 18:50 - Unlocking Business Success Mindset 20:04 - Commitment Yields Significant Revenue Potential Key Takeaways: Market Research and Strategy: Begin by analyzing successful local businesses and defining your service area to target the most lucrative neighborhoods. Use tools like Google to research and map out income per zip code. Invest Smart in Equipment: Start with affordable, used equipment from places like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. As your business grows, reinvest in new, reliable equipment. Remember, "buy nice or buy twice." Pricing and Profitability: Ensure proper pricing strategies by charging enough to cover costs and desired profit margins. Aim for at least a 50% gross profit margin by multiplying your cost estimates by two. Resources and Websites: Here's the video and story about our Window Cleaning brother in the UK I was talking about: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7F_pxfE8A4k Tree Work Electric hazard awareness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7QgzAauFCQ Tree Work Electric hazard awareness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILGSn9Rx8f8&t=0s The Time William and I climbed 115ft. in a tree: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVmT_Nhohjk&t=0s Tree Work and Arborist Videos playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLub0_q7i2mDRR3pk7GpX3k8JhZiE2IvYm 🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇 Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs LANDSCAPING BUSINESS How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16 Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence Multiple Ways to Monetize: https://www.keithkalfas.com/multipleways LevelUp Your Landscaping Business to $100K and beyond: https://www.keithkalfas.com/LEVELUP Transcript (Note: this was transcribed using transcription software and may not reflect the exact words used in the podcast) Keith Kalfas 00:00:00 - 00:00:48 How to start a landscaping business in 2025. Let's go. So, before we get started, I just got a comment on my YouTube channel. There's a guy who's trying to start his landscaping business, and he found himself on another YouTube channel that talks about how to become a millionaire and wealth and abundance and all that stuff, which is great. He left that channel, and now he's binge watching my videos because he specifically wants to learn how to start a landscaping business right now. So that's step number 1 because you gotta cut all the other fat of all this other information that's not helping you get your business to the next level. Step 2 is do market research. We're gonna talk about the equipment you need in a minute, but this is really important. Keith Kalfas 00:00:48 - 00:01:41 1st, go on Google and type in landscaping businesses near me and look at the most successful ones and analyze how are they running their business how are they marketing their business. You can learn a ton just by doing that. And I want you to go on Google Maps and create your service area, right? So ours is a 6-mile radius from our home base. And what I also want you to do is go on Google and type in income per zip code in your area and find out where all the money is at, and then you'll know where to market. I like to go in specific neighborhoods, market, and advertise repeatedly. You drill deep in specific ...
    Voir plus Voir moins
    21 min
  • Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Growing Landscaping Business

    Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Growing Landscaping Business
    Jan 9 2025
    Keeping your landscaping and service business on track can be challenging, but Keith has some great tips and stories today. In this $13,000 project, he and his crew dealt with everything from chopping down massive arborvitaes to detecting hidden PVC pipes. Keith explains the importance of saying "no" to things that aren't in your wheelhouse and why sometimes you need to learn the hard way. In addition, Keith shares some insights from other successful businesspeople who have discovered that streamlining your services can transform your business. It's a proven fact that focusing on your team's strengths will save time, reduce costly errors, and increase your bottom line. The key is letting go of the mental blocks and old stories that make you think you have to do everything when focusing on what you're good at is more efficient. We've covered you with real-life business stories full of practical advice to help you run your business more smoothly and efficiently. Check out these episode highlights: 00:00 Focus on big jobs; skip tricky extras. 06:05 Stick to core job duties and skip extra work. 07:14 Turning down a stressful job taught lessons. 12:36 Identify what you enjoy and focus on that. 16:30 Join for business advice and expert insights! 17:12 Want to chat? Hit me up at keithkelphus.com/call for some business advice! Key Takeaways: Discernment in Service Offerings: Knowing when to say 'no' to client requests outside your expertise is vital. This protects your business reputation and helps avoid unnecessary complications and delays. As tempting as it might be to take on every opportunity, focusing on what you excel at brings better results and client satisfaction. The Power of Specialization: Concentrate on a select few services your team performs exceptionally well. This approach not only streamlines operations but ensures consistent quality and efficiency, allowing you to train new employees and serve your clients with excellence quickly. Embrace and Overcome Mental Barriers: Understand that many perceived obstacles in managing a business, such as controlling quality and needing to be physically present, often exist in your head. Trusting and empowering capable team members can lead to broader success beyond individual efforts. Connect with Keith Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keithkalfas/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelandscapingemployeetrap Website: https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@keith-kalfas Resources and Websites: Durable AI Website: Durable AI Website Builder and Small Business Software Here's the video and story about our Window Cleaning brother in the UK I was talking about: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7F_pxfE8A4k Tree Work Electric hazard awareness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7QgzAauFCQ Tree Work Electric hazard awareness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILGSn9Rx8f8&t=0s The Time William and I climbed 115ft. in a tree: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVmT_Nhohjk&t=0s Tree Work and Arborist Videos playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLub0_q7i2mDRR3pk7GpX3k8JhZiE2IvYm 🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇 Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs LANDSCAPING BUSINESS How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16 Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence Multiple Ways to Monetize: https://www.keithkalfas.com/multipleways LevelUp Your Landscaping Business to $100K and beyond: https://www.keithkalfas.com/LEVELUP Transcript (Note: this was transcribed using transcription software and may not reflect the exact words used in the podcast) Keith Kalfas - 00:00:10 - 00:01:02 But when I'm going through my notes thinking of what content to create for you, I always go back to what's valuable and its mistakes to avoid. In the landscaping business, or any business for that matter, every time you take on something new, there's a learning process where it could be easy, could be really hard, and expensive. And so, like, we took on this job, and I wanna tell you a couple of stories and mistakes to avoid. This is so valuable. This job was, like, $13,000, and I always think of that song, Every Rose Has Its Thorn, from like the eighties because every rose has its thorn. So a job that is like, yes, it's a jackpot job. It's gonna have something in there, and you feel like you have to say yes to that thing, or you might have to do that thing. It's just you have to have discernment here. Keith Kalfas 00: 01:02 - 00:01:55 For instance, we removed these huge arborvitaes ...
    Voir plus Voir moins
    19 min
  • How I Almost Died Doing Tree Work | Safety Warning to All Landscapers

    How I Almost Died Doing Tree Work | Safety Warning to All Landscapers
    Dec 30 2024
    In today's episode, Keith dives into a pretty intense story that could really make you stop and think. A few years back, in 2021, Keith had a near-miss that none of us would ever want to face—he almost got seriously hurt while working on a tree job near some high-voltage power lines. And he's shared why that experience serves as a major wake-up call about the realities and risks of working close to electricity. Keith's not just telling this story for kicks—he hopes it opens eyes and might even save a few lives. We'll hear how important it is to be cautious and learn about electrical safety so that nobody finds themselves in a similar scary situation. So, if you're in the green industry or know someone who is, you'll want to stick around and listen to this one! Check out these episode highlights: 00:00 Trimmed branches with a telescopic pole saw. 03:17 Felt weird after a close call with danger. 07:13 Firefighter calls it a miracle: mild injury. 10:09 Assume wires are live; check safety videos. Key Takeaways: Keep Your Eyes Peeled: Power lines might look like they're far away, but give them respect and distance—always. Assume Every Wire is Hot: Whether it’s an electrical, phone, or even a cable line, treat them all like they’re live. Better safe than sorry, right? Know Before You Go: Watch safety videos on electrical hazards and tree work. A little knowledge goes a long way toward keeping you safe. Connect with Keith Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keithkalfas/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelandscapingemployeetrap Website: https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@keith-kalfas Resources and Websites: Here's the video and story about our Window Cleaning brother in the UK I was talking about: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7F_pxfE8A4k Tree Work Electric hazard awareness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7QgzAauFCQ Tree Work Electric hazard awareness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILGSn9Rx8f8&t=0s The Time William and I climbed 115ft. in a tree: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVmT_Nhohjk&t=0s Tree Work and Arborist Videos playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLub0_q7i2mDRR3pk7GpX3k8JhZiE2IvYm 🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇 Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs LANDSCAPING BUSINESS How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16 Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence Multiple Ways to Monetize: https://www.keithkalfas.com/multipleways LevelUp Your Landscaping Business to $100K and beyond: https://www.keithkalfas.com/LEVELUP Transcript (Note: this was transcribed using transcription software and may not reflect the exact words used in the podcast) Keith Kalfas 00:00:05 - 00:00:49 So this goes out as a warning to everybody in the green industry. I almost died a few years ago at work, and I keep avoiding making this video because of my ego is afraid of looking stupid and getting criticized, but I believe that what I'm about to talk about can very much save lives, and so I'm gonna tell you the story. I can't believe I'm making this video. So I'm not doing it for me. I'm doing it for the safety of others. Alright. So 2021, we're doing a tree job, and I'm removing a jack pine tree. This tree was maybe 25 feet tall behind a shed in a backyard. And so I'm actually pretty experienced doing tree work. Keith Kalfas 00:00:49 -00:01:53 I just don't post it on social media, and well, there was primary power lines, but they were 15 feet away from the tree and way high up, so they're about 10 feet away and then another 12 feet up. I mean, they were so far back and up in the air that once I was up in the tree and I started removing branches, they're behind me. I stopped paying attention to them because they were literally really far away. Right? Well, there's this thing I needed to trim a branch in front of me that I couldn't reach and get out to. So I'll tell my guy on the ground, I'll be like, yo, hand me the Stihl PP 800. It's a telescoping 18-foot aluminum pruning telescoping pruner pole and with the saw head on it. Right? You attach the saw head. And what I'll do with it, I'm up in the tree, is he'll extend it all the way out and then push it up to me, and I'll reach down and grab it, and then I'll fish it up behind me, and then I'll collapse it back down and just trim what I need to trim. Keith Kalfas 00:01:53 - 00:02:23 Well, in this instance, dude, I got my gear on ropes, I got my gaffes, which are my spikes, I got my saddle. I got my buck strap my lanyard around the tree. ...
    Voir plus Voir moins
    11 min
  • How Undercharging & Survival Mode Is the Worst Way to Run A Landscaping Business

    How Undercharging & Survival Mode Is the Worst Way to Run A Landscaping Business
    Dec 27 2024
    In this episode, Keith Kelfas shares a personal story about cutting corners on a landscaping job due to fear and lack of confidence. He recalls how he started his landscaping business with an obsessive focus on quality and customer care, only to land a wealthy client whose massive property overwhelmed him. Keith recounts undercharging for extensive landscaping work and making a critical error by not using enough weed barrier fabric. This mistake haunted him for years, teaching him valuable lessons about knowing his worth and the importance of doing the job right the first time. He emphasizes the significance of providing top-notch work and charging appropriately, highlighting the stress and emotional toll of undercharging and cutting corners. Keith also touches on using Jobber Software to improve his business operations. With a focus on continuous improvement and learning from mistakes, Keith aims to inspire landscapers to deliver exceptional results and run healthy businesses. "True mastery in business comes from the pain and suffering of lessons learned the hard way. Charge what you're worth, commit to top-quality work, and never let fear drive your decisions. Build your confidence, stay connected to your heart, and you'll create a business that serves both your clients and your dreams." - Keith Kalfas Topics Covered: Establishing the Landscaping Business The Wealthy Client Experience Financial and Emotional Struggles Examples of Other Business Challenges Key Takeaways Undercharging and Low Self-Esteem: Starting out with low confidence led to significantly undercharging for services, which resulted in cutting corners and causing long-term stress. Learning from Mistakes: Hard lessons were learned about the importance of charging appropriately for work to ensure quality and avoid future stress and financial strain. Importance of Self-Worth in Business: Understanding and valuing one's worth is crucial for running a successful business, delivering high-quality work, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Connect with Keith Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keithkalfas/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelandscapingemployeetrap Website: https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@keith-kalfas Resources and Websites: 🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇 Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs LANDSCAPING BUSINESS How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16 Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs Get Ballard: https://www.ballard-inc.com/ Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence Multiple Ways to Monetize: https://www.keithkalfas.com/multipleways LevelUp Your Landscaping Business to $100K and beyond: https://www.keithkalfas.com/LEVELUP
    Voir plus Voir moins
    18 min