Snow Talk with SIMA

How to Fight the Salt Supply Crisis and Save Costs

Most snow professionals aren’t prepared for the next salt shortage - and it could cost your business more than you think. In this eye-opening episode, industry expert Phil Sexton reveals the hidden factors behind the 2025-26 salt crisis and offers actionable strategies to future-proof your operations. Phil breaks down the domino effect of regulations, environmental impacts, and global dependencies that led to this year’s soaring costs—up to $300 per ton in some areas—and explains what every contractor must do now to avoid being hit again. Discover how decades of environmental and logistical challenges have created a fragile salt supply chain, and why relying solely on traditional sourcing and pricing models is a recipe for disaster.

Creating a Win-Win Workplace

Jack of All People Trades' founder Evan Tachoir joins Snow Talk to share his perspectives on employee engagement, delegation and how to thrive when you understand your "why".

Snow & Ice 2026: Equipment Trends and Front-Line Strategy

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the highs and lows of a truly unpredictable winter. From the historic mid-March 2026 storms that blanketed the Northeast and upper Midwest to the challenging droughts out West, we’re breaking down the data that defined the last four months. This episode features insights from two industry powerhouses: * Deb Mattson, CSP (Business Manager at Allied Snow Removal): Deb shares how her team navigated the intense Northeast storm cycle, the lessons learned on the front lines, and how customer expectations are shifting in the wake of "big weather" events. * Jennifer Walth, CSP (Senior Manager at Douglas Dynamics): Jennifer brings a manufacturer's perspective to the table, discussing the latest in equipment performance and industry trends. Whether you're managing a fleet or a business, tune in to hear how the pros handled one of the most unusual winters on record and what it means for the future of snow and ice management. Special thanks to our sponsors:This season of Snow Talk is proudly sponsored by Western Snow Plows [https://www.westernplows.com/] and Fisher Engineering [https://www.fisherplows.com/].

What's different about snow and ice management in the UK?

Snow Talk host Martin Tirado speaks with England-based Accugrit's Dean Harvey to chat the differences in snow and ice management in North America compared with the United Kingdom. Plus, they talk a little football (not the American kind).

Hurricane Relief: A Call to Action in Snow Management

In this episode of Snow Talk, host Martin Tirado speaks with Jacob Shivo, a leader in the snow and ice management industry. Jacob shares his journey into the field, his company's response to Hurricane Pauline, and the importance of community and networking in the industry. The conversation highlights the challenges faced during recovery efforts, innovations in snow management, and the significance of building relationships within the industry.