How Jeff Stopa Built a 40 Person Landscaping Business

How Jeff Stopa Built a 40 Person Landscaping Business

In this episode I interviewed Jeff Stopa, owner of Stopa’s Landscaping in Connecticut. Jeff shares his journey from starting the business at 19 to building a company with up to 40 employees, offering services like lawn care, landscape design, fencing, masonry, and holiday lighting. Key Highlights: * Team Success: Jeff credits his team’s longevity to a family-like atmosphere and mutual respect, which he fosters through support and fair treatment. * Customer Focus: He emphasizes the importance of clear communication, quick callbacks, and accurate estimates to build trust and maintain a strong reputation. * Marketing Strategies: Jeff relies on SEO, local Facebook groups, and community referrals to generate leads. * Winter Diversification: Moving away from snow plowing, Jeff focuses on services like holiday lighting to sustain revenue during the offseason. * Advice: Jeff encourages landscapers to track financials closely, communicate effectively, and balance work with family life. Jeff’s story offers practical insights into scaling a landscaping business while maintaining strong relationships and work-life balance.

Sales Strategies That Transform Landscaping Businesses

In this episode of The Landscapers Business Growth Podcast, host John Giaccotto sits down with Neil Glatt, co-founder of GrowTheBench.com and an expert in sales for the landscaping and snow industries. Together, they discuss proven strategies for improving sales processes, identifying ideal customers, and building long-term client relationships. Neil shares insights on when and how to ask for referrals, the importance of qualifying leads, and why adding value at every stage of the sales journey is key to success. Whether you’re a small operator or looking to scale, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you close more deals and grow your business.

How to Start and Grow a Lawn Care Business: Tips from Trimming Edge Lawn Care

In this episode of The Landscaper’s Business Growth Podcast, I interview David Bidwell, the owner of Trimming Edge Lawn Care in Massachusetts. David started his business in 2020 during the COVID pandemic and shares how he used newspaper advertising to get his first customers along with how he has grown since. We also discuss how he uses staffing agencies to help him find seasonal workers and how he’s managed to increase his prices.

How Doug Grew Landscape America to an $8 Million Landscaping Company

In this episode of The Landscaper’s Business Growth Podcast, I interview Doug McDuff, president of Landscape America and former president of the Massachusetts Association of Landscape Professionals. Doug shares the powerful impact that Open Book Management has had on his company, helping his team stay aligned, motivated, and accountable by providing visibility into their financials. Listen to Doug discuss his transition from residential to 100% commercial landscaping, his use of Open Book Management, and how he fosters a strong company culture. Doug also shares insights on his approach to commercial snow management, recruitment, and creating opportunities for his team.

The Power of Delegation: Tory Shalanda’s Secrets to Scaling Better View Landscapes

In this episode of the Landscaper’s Business Growth Podcast, I speak with Tori Shalanda, President and CEO of Better View Landscapes. With nearly 30 years in the landscaping industry, Tori shares his journey from a small lawn care startup to a high-end landscape design and maintenance business in Massachusetts. Learn Tori’s insights on scaling, delegating effectively, and creating sustainable growth in the landscaping industry. He also dives into the importance of processes, adapting to market trends, and building a positive company culture that retains great talent. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on overcoming challenges, setting up essential systems, and continuously improving for long-term success. Don’t miss Tori’s tips on managing seasonal work, especially in tough New England winters, and the strategies he uses to create a well-rounded, stable business model.