In this episode, Keith Kalfas lays down the honest truth about rejection in business — and how you can transform ghosting and “no’s” into unstoppable momentum for your landscaping hustle. If you’ve ever poured your heart into proposals only to have customers vanish faster than a free donut at a staff meeting, Keith is here to fire you up. He shares how to build unshakable resilience, grow your “thick skin,” and adopt a numbers-driven mindset that helps you plant seeds far and wide — and harvest golden clients from the crowd.   “You should be so busy in your business that you don’t even remember the customers who ghosted you.”  – Keith Kalfas Topics Covered: Why you must expect and embrace rejection in business The power of massive action: 100 quotes, 100 follow-ups, 100 conversations How to identify and retain your dream clients — the ones who pay well, tip generously, and treat you with respect How to let go of emotional baggage and focus on stacking value for your customers Proven strategies to stay top-of-mind with past leads and keep your pipeline full Real-world pricing wisdom, from $50 lawn cuts to $1,300 shrub cleanups Keith’s shotgun farmer approach to planting “seeds” in marketing And a priceless reminder that your best clients are worth bending over backwards for — while still holding your professional boundaries Key Takeaways Rejection Is Fuel, Not Failure Keith stresses that rejection is inevitable — and actually necessary — to build a thriving business. Don’t take it personally; use it to sharpen your skills and keep pushing forward.   Plant Seeds Broadly to Harvest Golden Clients Don’t rely on one or two prospects. Keith urges you to market, quote, and follow up at scale, so you can sift through the masses and find the dream clients who truly value your work.   Retain and Protect Your Best Clients The real gold is in retaining your best customers — the ones who pay well, respect you, and make business a joy. Treat them like royalty, because they are the foundation of your success.   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 The Untrapped Alliance: https://www.keithkalfas.com/alliance  

In this episode, Keith Kalfas reveals how setting a $700 job minimum transformed his landscaping business—and how it can do the same for yours. If you’ve been undercharging, afraid to raise prices, or stuck in the “lowball trap,” this episode is your wake-up call. Keith breaks down the mindset, math, and muscle it takes to confidently set a job minimum, stop negotiating against yourself, and build a profitable, sustainable business. You’ll hear how he evolved from $99 jobs to a $700 baseline, how to calculate your own break-even point, and how to split-test higher prices with new clients—without losing your sanity or your soul.     "Figure out your job minimum and stick to it. It's gonna be scary. But if you have enough customers coming in and new customers and you have the difficult conversation with yourself and then the positive, friendly, uplifting, professional conversation with your customers, then it'll work out for you." – Keith Kalfas Topics Covered: Why your job minimum matters more than you think How undercharging creates a cycle of burnout Dealing with old customers vs. new pricing Emotional strength vs. price guilt How to split-test higher prices confidently Budgeting and cost-per-day calculations Avoiding the “lowball trap” in busy seasons Knowing your worth and owning your price Key Takeaways Raise Your Minimum, Raise Your Game Keith shows how setting a strong job minimum isn't just about money—it's about protecting your time, energy, and long-term vision.   Test Higher Prices—With Strategy Use split testing to experiment with pricing: serve some clients at your dream rate and others at a modest increase. Let data (not fear) guide you.   Don’t Negotiate Against Yourself If you believe you're worth more—and you can prove it with quality work and real numbers—then stop lowballing and start leading with confidence.   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 The Untrapped Alliance: https://www.keithkalfas.com/alliance  

In this episode, Keith Kalfas shares a powerful lesson on keeping your emotions in check when running a landscaping business. He reflects on real experiences—like dealing with customer callbacks, weed regrowth after mulch jobs, and mold surprises—and how staying calm, informed, and professional is key to long-term success. Keith breaks down the mindset shift from overreacting to responding with clarity, encourages clear client communication, and reminds landscapers to charge what they’re worth.      "Don’t immediately admit to a mistake just because you’re scared." – Keith Kalfas Topics Covered: Emotional discipline in business Dealing with callbacks and complaints Seasonal landscaping challenges Client communication Setting expectations in quotes Knowing your worth and pricing properly Learning through experience and mentorship Drainage, hydrostatic pressure, and property water flow Mindset growth from fear to leadership Key Takeaways Control Your Emotions—Lead With Logic Keith reminds us that running a business means facing tough feedback. But reacting emotionally can hurt more than help. Instead, pause, zoom in (literally and mentally), and respond with facts, not feelings. It’s a game-changer for confidence and client trust.   Set Boundaries in Your Quotes—Protect Your Peace One simple phrase: “What’s included, and what’s excluded.” Keith shares how clearly outlining job details (even verbally) avoids costly assumptions. Whether it’s removing a stump or skipping a garden bed, clarity = no surprises, no regrets.   You’re Not Just Landscaping—You’re Managing Expectations Whether it’s weeds growing back after mulch or dog vomit mold showing up uninvited, clients need education, not excuses. Keith shows how staying informed, explaining calmly, and standing your ground (when you’re right) earns long-term loyalty.   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 The Untrapped Alliance: https://www.keithkalfas.com/alliance  

In this episode, Keith Kalfas shares transformative insights on mastering financial systems based on his personal experiences. Highlighting the importance of having robust systems in place, he discusses James Clear's philosophy on systems over standards and introduces the MVSA (Minimum Viable System). Keith provides a detailed breakdown of the 30% and 50% rules for managing finances and achieving a 50% gross profit margin. He emphasizes the routine of 'Friday Finances' and how it brought order to his financial chaos. Additionally, Keith invites listeners to join his Untrapped Alliance group for deeper learning and access to successful business strategies, featuring contributions from financial experts like Dan Plata. Throughout, he underscores the significance of habit-building and consistent system application for financial stability.     "You already have systems—some of them just suck. But once you become aware of that, you can fix them. That’s when everything starts to change." – Keith Kalfas Topics Covered: Introduction to Systems and Integrity Understanding and Implementing Systems The Life-Changing Friday Finances System The 30% Rule for Taxes The 50% Gross Profit Margin Rule The Untrapped Alliance Invitation Testimonials and Success Stories Key Takeaways Systems Save You—Even From Yourself James Clear's quote sets the tone: "You don’t rise to the level of your goals; you fall to the level of your systems." Keith drives home the point that even with ADHD or chaos in life, simple, repeatable systems create stability. His Minimum Viable System (MVSA) concept proves that even imperfect systems beat no systems—because consistency wins.   The 30% and 50% Rules Are Game Changers for Small Biz Finances 30% Rule: Set aside 30% of your gross income (yes, even if it stings!) for taxes in a separate savings account. This protects you from tax season panic and builds discipline fast. 50% Rule: Build every job estimate to hit at least a 50% Gross Profit Margin. That means if it costs $1,000 to do the job, quote $2,000. This ensures your business isn’t just busy—it’s profitable.   Your Financial Habits Shape Your Freedom Keith’s “Friday Finances” ritual is a simple but powerful weekly system: review all accounts, reconcile records, check in with your bookkeeper, and make sure every dollar has a job. Over time, this habit pulled him out of financial chaos and into clarity—with 17 bank accounts now dialed in like a boss.   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 The Untrapped Alliance: https://www.keithkalfas.com/alliance  

In this episode of the Untrapped Podcast, host Keith Kalfas talks with Coach Carroll, a renowned sales coach and entrepreneur from Louisville, Kentucky. They delve into Carroll’s multiple business ventures, including his new AI-driven project. Carroll shares insights on his journey in building multimillion-dollar businesses, his philosophy on time management, setting healthy boundaries, and the future of artificial intelligence in small businesses. They discuss the importance of adapting to new technologies, particularly AI, for business growth and efficiency. Carroll also introduces ‘Alli,’ his AI platform designed to help small businesses streamline operations and never miss an opportunity. This episode is packed with valuable advice on entrepreneurship, AI integration, and personal growth.     "  It's your fear of raising prices and losing customers. That's the enemy. Not the leads, not more from your website, not more follow up funnels. It's getting over that mindset shift." – Coach Carroll Topics Covered: The Rise of AI in Business AI's Impact on Small Businesses Introducing Ally: The AI Platform Coach Carroll's Mission and Vision Leveraging AI for Business Growth Future of AI and Business  The Value of Reading and AI's Potential Custom AI for Sales Coaching AI's Empathy and Human-like Characteristics The Future of AI in Business Leveraging AI for Personal and Professional Growth AI in Content Creation and Book Writing AI's Impact on Small Businesses Key Takeaways AI is a Tool for Survival and Scale: You’ll learn how AI isn’t just hype—it’s a real, practical tool that can save you time, cut costs, and help your business grow faster. DJ shows how using AI for lead detection, customer service, and creative work can give small businesses a serious edge, especially those who act now.   Your Mindset is Your Biggest Limiter: A major lesson here is that fear holds most business owners back more than competition does. Fear of raising prices, fear of tech, fear of change. DJ points out that it’s no longer about not having the right tools—it’s about having the courage to use them.   Adaptation Beats Skill: You’ll see how the businesses that thrive aren’t necessarily the smartest or most experienced—they’re the ones that adapt the fastest. From social media to AI, the landscape keeps shifting. If you stay curious, keep learning, and evolve, you’ll stay ahead of the curve.   Connect with Coach Carroll Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dj_carroll/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dj-carroll-65589b21/ Website: http://www.coachcarroll.com/ 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 The Untrapped Alliance: https://www.keithkalfas.com/alliance  

In this episode, Keith Kalfas shares his thoughts on living a peaceful, inspired, and motivated life by following one's purpose and staying in a flow state. He discusses the pitfalls of comparison and scarcity mindset, the importance of emotional well-being, and the benefits of maintaining a beautiful state of consciousness. Keith also touches on the impact of materialism and societal pressure, emphasizing the value of building meaningful relationships and staying true to one's core values. He integrates lessons from personal experiences, spirituality, and teachings from influential figures, making this episode a thought-provoking discussion on the essence of a fulfilling life.     " We chase Bugattis to feel loved, not realizing it's not the car we want—it’s significance. A lot of people are rich physically, but poor mentally." – Keith Kalfas Topics Covered: Inner Peace and Inspiration Comparison, Scarcity, and Self-Doubt Consciousness, Flow, and Purpose Perfectionism and Self-Worth Fear, Suffering, and the Human Experience Materialism, Wealth, and Debt Family, Presence, and Personal Loss Faith, Prayer, and Spirituality Navigating Business and Life Challenges Personal Growth and Fulfillment Key Takeaways Feeling Inspired and Motivated: The episode highlights the joy and fulfillment that come from doing what you love and finding your purpose. Being in this 'flow state' where time flies and everything feels just right is incredibly rewarding.   Mindset Matters: It's easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others, especially on social media. However, shifting your perspective and focusing on your own journey can drastically change your experience and outlook on life.   True Wealth Lies in Relationships and Faith: Keith emphasizes that real wealth isn't about money or possessions. It's about the love and connections you have with family and friends, and the peace you find in your spiritual beliefs.   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 The Untrapped Alliance: https://www.keithkalfas.com/alliance  

In this episode of the Untrapped Podcast, host Keith Kalfas talks with Joel Kouski from Kouski Landscaping, who has built a $2 million business with 20 employees. Joel shares his story and talks about why staying emotionally detached in customer service is important, while still building real connections with customers. They discuss overcoming challenges, leading with humility and strong character, and using smart sales strategies. Joel also gives practical tips for handling the busy spring season, boosting team productivity, and staying focused on personal growth and faith. This episode is packed with useful advice for landscaping business owners and entrepreneurs.     " We're trying to be a lot of things for good reasons, but what if trying to be that thing in the first place is actually the thing holding you back? Just take the pressure off, " – Joel Kouski Topics Covered: Joel Kuski’s Business Journey Challenges in Entrepreneurship The Role of Encouragement in Business Solving Technical Issues in Business Balancing Personal Life and Business Building Systems and Automations Personal Growth and Humility in Leadership Customer Connection and Sales Success Pricing and Value in the Landscaping Industry Employee Management and AI Tools Key Takeaways Building Real Connections in Business: Joel stresses the importance of genuinely understanding and connecting with people — whether it's customers, employees, or family. For example, instead of just selling a pool, he suggests creating a space that fits the customer's real desires, which builds trust and loyalty.   Emotional and Mental Health: Both Keith and Joel talk about how important it is for entrepreneurs to take care of their emotional and mental health. Joel shares how stress and poor emotional management hurt his relationships and emphasizes the value of self-awareness, admitting mistakes, and focusing on personal growth.   Value and Pricing: Instead of focusing on discounts or low prices, Joel advises businesses to focus on understanding their customers’ needs and offering high value. By doing so, they can justify higher prices and build customer loyalty.   Connect with Joel Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JoelKouski Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joelkouski/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-kouski-9b751a73 Website: https://www.joelkouski.com/ 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 The Untrapped Alliance: https://www.keithkalfas.com/alliance  

In this insightful episode of the Untrapped podcast, host Keith Kalfas interviews Erica Krupin, the founder of Kroopin's Poopin Scoopin. Erica shares her inspiring journey from working at the  University of Michigan Hospital to creating a multiple six-figure business specializing in poop scooping. She discusses the pivotal moments that led her to entrepreneurship, the challenges she faced, and the strategies she employed to achieve success. Erica also touches on the importance of customer reviews, organic content, and social media marketing in growing her business. Additionally, she shares her personal growth, shedding light on how she overcame emotional and business hurdles with faith and perseverance.   " I want to inspire that person to know that just because you came from a certain place and you were raised a certain way and you were treated a certain way, doesn't mean that you have to live that life. It doesn't mean you have to get stuck in the poverty loop. You can. Break away and you can make changes and you can grow." – Erica Krupin Topics Covered: Introduction of Erica Krupin and her business, Kroopin's Poopin Scoopin. Strategies for marketing and building a successful pooper scooping business. Transition from manual methods to using jobber software for business operations. Challenges and mistakes, such as overextending with office space. The importance of staying lean and reinvesting profits wisely. The role of social media and digital marketing in business growth. Personal journey and growth, including leaving an unfulfilling job. The significance of faith and being open about it. Upcoming public speaking engagement at Scoop Con. Advice for new business owners on starting and evolving their business. Key Takeaways   Entrepreneurial Journey and Challenges: Erica shares her experience of building a six-figure business, including initial struggles, scaling up, making financial mistakes, and learning to focus on core services for better efficiency. Marketing and Branding Strategies: Discussion on effective marketing strategies ranging from organic social media content, Google and Facebook ads, using community-specific tactics like business cards in vet clinics, and maintaining consistent branding. Personal Growth and Spiritual Journey: Erica's transition from a hospital job to entrepreneurship, overcoming personal challenges, including addiction, and the role of faith and spirituality in her journey towards personal and business growth. Connect with Erica Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvDcw9Kf62FDkBRp2mYDTSg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erica_krupin/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-krupin-605756172/ 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 The Untrapped Alliance: https://www.keithkalfas.com/alliance

In this lively episode, Keith Kalfas hosts Austin Douglas from Ditch The Itch, who has built a six-figure business from scratch by removing poison ivy and offering mosquito treatments. Austin shares his journey from part-time work to significant growth, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and networking. He discusses his innovative approaches to marketing and client retention, as well as the development of his training academy. Austin also provides practical advice on poison ivy identification, safe removal techniques, and strategies for expanding service offerings. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and green industry professionals.   "You have to act the part. You're only going to be perceived as a professional if you put yourself out there as a professional." – Austin Douglas Topics Covered: Strategies for Business Growth Educational Ventures and Partnerships Poison Ivy Management: Tips, Stories and Precautions Youtube Channel Strategies and Exam Preparation Learning Through Visual and Audio Methods Creating Study Materials and Practice Exams Launching and Selling Online Courses Innovative Mosquito and Tick Control Methods Public Speaking and Educational Outreach Key Takeaways   Business and Marketing Strategies: Networking and Relationships: Building connections through industry meetings can open significant business opportunities. Marketing Tactics: Utilizing social media ads, billboards, and referral programs to effectively grow a business. Client Retention: Providing excellent service leads to repeat clients and reduces the need for extensive marketing. Treatment and Removal Techniques: Poison Ivy Control: Use protective gear, Dawn dish soap for cleaning, and selective herbicides like Garlon 3A for effective poison ivy treatment. Tick and Mosquito Management: Apply permethrin-treated clothing and DEET to minimize bites. Understand mosquito treatment innovations, such as using longer-lasting formulations. Education and Community Impact: Continuous Learning: Investing in education enhances business credibility and opportunities. Public Speaking and Online Education: Use platforms like YouTube and industry events to share expertise and position oneself as a leader. Community Engagement: Incorporate charitable activities into business practices to positively impact the community and enhance brand image.   Connect with Austin LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/austin-douglas-ab1683175 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ditch_the_itch_mi/ Website: https://ditchtheitchmi.com/about/ 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 The Untrapped Alliance: https://www.keithkalfas.com/alliance

In this episode, Keith Kalfas discusses the intense work required when starting a business, including long hours, stress, and financial struggles. He highlights the importance of healthy eating, proper sleep, and reinvesting earnings into personal growth and education. Keith also addresses overcoming mental barriers like unworthiness and emphasizes the value of surrounding oneself with positive, supportive people to achieve success.   "Success isn’t about grinding forever—it’s about knowing when to let go of the struggle, invest in yourself, and step into the future that’s already waiting for you." - Keith Topics Covered: The Hustle of Starting a Business The Importance of Health and Sleep Managing Financial Success Investing in Personal Growth Overcoming Mental Barriers Embracing Abundance and Letting Go Conclusion: Unlocking Your Potential Key Takeaways   Invest in Yourself Before Upgrading Your Lifestyle When you start making money, the temptation is to splurge on luxuries, but true success comes from reinvesting in your education, health, and personal growth.     Success Requires Sacrifice, but Burnout Isn’t the Goal Building a business demands long hours and sacrifices, but sustainable success comes from prioritizing proper sleep, nutrition, hydration, and exercise to maintain long-term performance.     Let Go of the Past to Step Into Your Future Many people stay stuck because of limiting beliefs, unworthiness, or fear. The moment you recognize that you’re ready, cut the ties to old struggles and allow yourself to move forward with confidence.   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