Shop tour and the plan to crack $1M with Brian's Lawn Maintenance

In this episode, Keith drops by Brian Fullerton’s shop (yes, after a literal mulch fire 🤯) to dig into how Brian’s Lawn Maintenance is systematizing for scale. Brian breaks down the jump from $427k to a rolling $550k and why the team is on track to crack $1M — with an eye toward a $10–$20M BHAG at 15–20% profit. He shares the mindset shift from residential to commercial work, the blade-sharpening science that actually drives quality, and the shop organization moves (lever rack + pallet racking) that keep the crew humming. Brian also opens up about cash flow, financing, and the language of business he wishes he’d learned sooner, plus the advice he gives new operators about delivering on promises and building trust.     “Build the system so the system can build the business.” – Brian Fullerton Topics Covered: From $427k to $1M+: Rolling 12 numbers, what’s working, and why 300k→$1M is the hardest jump. Commercial vs. Residential: Bidding strategy, margins, and “one shot” first impressions. Nerdy but profitable: Why a true 90° blade edge matters more than marketing gimmicks. Shop that sells: Lever rack + painted pallet racking for vertical storage, culture, and speed. Money lessons: Cash flow, leverage, banking conversations, and qualifying for growth capital. Keep your word: Deliver first visits perfectly; relationships compound revenue. Snow = scale: Q3–Q4 push to grow the snow division as the revenue accelerator. BHAG: Building toward $10–$20M without losing authenticity or team pride. Real-world impact: A listener salvaging $100k in accounts using Brian’s pricing play. Gear moment: The Bobcat L28 (wrapped and ready) moving mountains of mulch. Key Takeaways Build the System That Builds the Business: Scaling from $300k to $1M+ isn’t about working harder—it’s about creating systems that run smoothly without you. When the system builds the business, growth becomes inevitable. Trust Is Earned on Day One: Your first impression with a new client sets the tone for the entire relationship. Promise big, deliver bigger, and prove reliability from the very first visit. Speak Finance, Unlock Growth: Knowing the language of business—cash flow, leverage, EBITDA—turns lender “no’s” into capital fuel. Master finance early, and you’ll accelerate past plateaus.   Connect with Brian Fullerton Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianslawnmaintenance/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianslawnmaintenanceYT/?view_public_for=551659395235621 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brianslawnmaintenanceyt?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 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:  Start Getting Leads Now https://www.footbridgemedia.com/keith Resources You Need To Build A Successful Business https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources 🙋♂️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 today’s episode, Keith Kalfas opens up about how he started his landscaping business with no money, no car, and a mountain of debt—offering raw, actionable advice for anyone ready to escape a dead-end job and take control of their future. With motivational insights and no-nonsense truths, this is a deeply personal look at entrepreneurship, survival, and the drive to transform your life against the odds.                     "Nothing's going to change unless you change it." – Keith Kalfas Episode Highlights:   [00:00:01] Equip Expo Promo Keith shares details on the Equip Expo, the biggest green industry event in America, taking place in Louisville, Kentucky (Oct 21–24). Listeners can save 50% on tickets with promo code KEITH50. [00:00:38] How to Start a Landscaping Business With No Money Keith introduces the core topic—starting a landscaping business from scratch. He talks directly to those stuck in dead-end jobs and struggling to take the leap into entrepreneurship, addressing common fears about money, equipment, and providing for a family. [00:02:09] Keith’s Personal Story: From Rock Bottom to Six Figures Keith shares his own journey, revealing the desperation that drove him: job loss, debt collectors, eviction notices, and the terrifying uncertainty he faced with no startup money or resources. [00:04:58] The Turning Point: Getting Off the Ground Driven by imminent eviction and overwhelming debt, Keith describes the gritty first steps he took—posting Craigslist ads, knocking on doors, handing out homemade business cards, and pulling weeds for cash. He transparently shares the realities of using his wife’s car and borrowed equipment just to get started. [00:06:30] Bootstrapping and Beating the Odds Keith recounts pulling his life together: borrowing a truck, working countless hours, fighting discouragement, and doing everything necessary—even poorly paid jobs—to survive and build his business from nothing. [00:08:02] Hitting the Breakthrough: Quitting to Go All In Keith reaches his breaking point, describing the day he finally quit his job after replacing his income with landscaping work—then pouring himself into his business, putting in 90–100 hour weeks. He talks about the emotional and financial risks, but also the payoff: freedom and self-respect.   Key Takeaways Starting With Nothing Is Possible: Keith’s story proves you can start a business with zero money, no vehicle, and even bad credit—persistence and hustle are key. Let Go of Excuses: The only way out of being stuck is to take uncomfortable, consistent action—even if it means humble beginnings. Leverage Relentless Hustle:  Overcome obstacles by working harder and longer—90 to 100 hours a week if needed to break through. Accept Humble Beginnings: Start small—even if it means hauling weeds in someone else’s old pickup. Humility is part of the journey. Claim Your Freedom: True freedom comes from betting on yourself and taking massive, sometimes scary, action toward your own vision.    Connect with Keith Kalfas: 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 & Sponsor Links Equip Expo: https://plus.mcievents.com/equipexpo2025?RefId=KEITH50— 50% off tickets with code KEITH50 Footbridge Media: footbridgemedia.com/keith Jobber (Exclusive free trial + discount): getjobber.com/kalfas              

In this episode, Keith travels to Kentucky to interview Coach Carroll, a successful entrepreneur running two seven-figure businesses remotely. Coach Carroll shares insights on his tech and blue-collar companies, his real estate ventures, and leveraging AI for efficiency. The conversation covers his background, significant achievements, and the organizational strategies he created to keep his team aligned. He emphasizes the importance of investing in mentorship and knowledge for business success. The episode also touches on his biggest failures, the importance of helping others, and his long-term goals, including a nine-figure tech company exit.     “Pay to get ahead. Stop negotiating the price of your success. Hire the mentor, hire the coach, buy the course, go to the event—pay for the knowledge others already have so you can make quantum leaps in your business.” – DJ Carroll Topics Covered: Overview of His Businesses Revenue & Business Breakdown From Lawn Care to AI: The Origin Story Organizational Strategy: Heading Adjustments Books That Shaped His Success Running Global Operations from the Command Center Advice for Entrepreneurs Starting Out Future Goals, Big Vision & Lessons from Failure Fulfillment Through Helping Others & Where to Find Him Q&A and Final Thoughts Key Takeaways Pay to Shortcut the Struggle: Don’t waste years trying to reinvent the wheel. The fastest way to level up in business is to invest in mentors, courses, and events that give you access to proven strategies. Knowledge is one of the few assets that appreciates instantly and pays you back for a lifetime. Keep the Team Aligned: Success isn’t just about building systems—it’s about keeping people in sync. Monthly “Heading Adjustments” give employees space to share challenges, measure satisfaction, and realign with core values. This proactive approach prevents small frustrations from snowballing into resignations and builds a stronger, more engaged culture. Turn Setbacks Into Strategy: Every failure carries the seeds of a better system. Losing a business venture taught Coach Carroll the irreplaceable value of having the right CPAs, lawyers, and advisors. Instead of letting breakdowns end the game, treat them as tuition fees for your entrepreneurial education—fuel to grow smarter and stronger.   Connect with DJ 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:  Start Getting Leads Now https://www.footbridgemedia.com/keith Resources You Need To Build A Successful Business https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources 🙋♂️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 dives deep into the tried-and-true marketing strategies that will help you grow your lawn care or landscaping business, get more clients, and build a full schedule. Keith shares his own journey from being stuck in a dead-end job to building a successful business and offers actionable steps you can take today to achieve similar results.   "There's so much work out there that it's overwhelming, truthfully. And they're looking out and they're looking for somebody who's reliable, somebody who's dependable, somebody that they can have a long-term relationship with. They're begging to write you a check." - Keith Kalfas   Episode Highlights 1. Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs ([00:01:32] - [00:02:43]) Keith tackles the mental barriers that can hold you back and emphasizes that growing your client base is fully within your control. Learn why prospects are actively looking for reliable contractors and how to position yourself to meet that demand. 2. Powerful Marketing Tactics ([00:03:12] - [00:06:07]) Keith provides a comprehensive rundown on: Getting a professional logo and branding materials. Utilizing business cards, magnets, and bandit signs to increase local visibility. Leveraging online platforms like Craigslist, Facebook, and top local directories (Yelp, Google My Business, Angi, and more) for maximum exposure. Building a simple website via Squarespace, Wix, or even Google My Business, and linking all your social profiles to create a strong digital footprint. Importance of backlinks, local citations, and word-of-mouth reviews. 3. Snowball Effect of Consistent Marketing ([00:06:07] - [00:07:14]) Keith explains how small, consistent marketing actions create a snowball effect, resulting in overwhelming client demand within a year. Tips for collecting positive online reviews and generating referral business. 4. Embracing Change & Modeling Success ([00:09:11] - [00:11:22]) Personal anecdotes about taking the leap from comfort zones, learning from industry leaders, and “modeling” what’s working for successful businesses. The importance of presenting a professional image online—even if it’s just you and a truck! 5. Must-Have Tools & Resources Brief sponsor spots about tools like Footbridge Media for websites, and Jobber for business management and AI-powered customer service. Exclusive offers for listeners: Free 2-week Jobber trial with exclusive discount (link: getjobber.com/kalfas) Free PDF: “The 7 Steps to Marketing Your Business Online”—just text ‘untrapped’ to 31996. If you're interested in joining or want to see if you qualify to become a member of a "focus group" where real progress is made, visit Untrapped Alliance for more information.     Key Takeaways Overcoming Limiting Beliefs Recognize and break through the mental barriers holding you back from growing your business and achieving success. Understanding Market Demand Realize the abundance of potential clients needing reliable landscaping and lawn care services in your area. Crafting Effective Business Materials Invest in professional logos, business cards, and signage to establish credibility and boost brand visibility. Maximizing Local Advertising Utilize bandit signs, truck magnets, local print shops, and flyers to target neighborhoods you want to serve. Leveraging Online Platforms Create or enhance business profiles on social media, Google My Business, Yelp, and other authority sites for more exposure. Building a Simple Website Launch a basic website quickly using platforms like Squarespace, Wix, or even Google My Business for increased legitimacy. Generating Backlinks for Growth Link social media and directory profiles back to your site to boost search rankings and credibility online. Harnessing Positive Reviews Request well-worded reviews from customers on Google or Facebook to build trust and encourage referrals. Learning from Industry Peers Model the successful strategies used by other professionals in your industry to accelerate your own business growth.   Connect with Keith Kalfas: 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 Mentioned 99designs Fiverr Upwork Squarespace Wix Weebly Google My Business http://footbridgemedia.com/keith http://getjobber.com/kalfas  

In this energetic and motivational episode, Keith Kalfas takes the stage to deliver a powerful message around knowing your worth as an entrepreneur—especially in the landscaping and home service industries.  Keith shares personal stories from his early days in business, discussing mistakes, learning pivotal lessons, and how failing to recognize your own value can lead to burnout and unprofitable work. He describes his transition from working for low rates to confidently pricing and running a healthier, more profitable operation. Key practical takeaways include setting business boundaries (like hours of operation), defining your minimum pricing, and the crucial “30% rule” for taxes. Keith also discusses the importance of route density, staying within a set service area, and raising standards both in client and team selections. The episode concludes with encouragement for entrepreneurs to realize their worth, take control, and not let life dictate their trajectory. Keith draws from personal struggles, urging listeners to take decisive action in demanding fair compensation and building a resilient business.     “You are the boss of your business. You're the boss! So start acting like the boss.”  – Keith Kalfas   Key Topics Discussed Keith’s Story: Learning his value by undercharging, overcoming fear, and working for a high-profile client. Hours of Operation: Setting boundaries to support work-life balance and avoid burnout. The 30% Rule: Putting aside 30% of gross income for taxes to stay compliant and secure. Raising Prices and Minimums: Why and how to confidently raise prices, and the importance of establishing minimum charges. Service Area Strategy: The importance of route density and not overextending your operational radius. Hiring and Team Building: Not hiring out of desperation and aiming for high standards in staff selection. Marketing & Systems: The need to learn marketing and constantly generate leads, with tips on using tools like Jobber and Profit First principles for better financial health. Mindset & Self-worth: Overcoming a scarcity mindset, letting go of your past self, and becoming the ‘boss’ in your business.        Key Takeaways Know Your Worth Understand and value your skills; don’t undersell yourself, even when you feel desperate or inexperienced. Set Business Boundaries Implement clear hours of operation to prevent burnout and maintain a healthier work-life balance for yourself and your team. Embrace the 30% Rule Always set aside 30% of your gross income for taxes to ensure financial stability and avoid tax-time panic. Stand Firm on Pricing Don’t let clients undervalue your work; confidently communicate your prices and be prepared to walk away if necessary. Always Know Your Numbers Regularly track financials and review performance. Data-driven decisions help you scale and sustain your business.   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 & Mentions Jobber CRM Software Profit First by Mike Michalowicz (book recommendation) Clarity App (for financial overview)  footbridgemedia.com/keith

In this episode of the Untrapped Podcast, host Keith Kalfas sits down with Chase Gallagher, a young entrepreneur who has achieved substantial success in the landscaping industry. At 24, Chase has grown his business to generate $2 million in revenue with 12 employees. They discuss how Chase got started, the importance of social media in his business, and key strategies for growth and customer retention. Chase shares his experiences and challenges, including early struggles, hiring strategies, and the importance of taking action to overcome fears. The episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights for aspiring business owners looking to scale their ventures.     “The services you focus on shape your bottom line. If you chase only the big, flashy projects, you might tie up time and cash flow. But when you double down on high-margin, fast-turnaround work, you create steady revenue that keeps the whole business moving forward.” – Chase Gallagher Topics Covered: Chase Gallagher's Beginnings Early Business Ventures Expanding Services and Design Work Challenges and Learning Experiences Equipment and Property Investments Business Growth and Management Facing Business Fears Overcoming Event Planning Challenges Trusting Your Intuition Taking Action and Eliminating Excuses The Power of Social Media for Business The Untrapped Podcast and Personal Growth Q&A and Final Thoughts Key Takeaways Grow One Service at a Time: Master a single service before adding the next. This controlled growth builds skill, reputation, and confidence—without stretching resources too thin.   Profit Lives in the Overlooked Jobs: High-margin work like drainage projects often beats flashier jobs in profitability. Focus on services with low material costs, quick turnarounds, and high demand.   Fast Communication Wins Clients: Being the first to respond—and doing it consistently—builds trust, sets you apart from competitors, and closes more high-value projects.   Connect with Chase Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chase_gallagher_/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Chasegallagher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chase-gallagher-309036177/ 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:  Start Getting Leads Now https://www.footbridgemedia.com/keith Resources You Need To Build A Successful Business https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources 🙋♂️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, Keith Kalfas chats with Chris Beltran, the Brand Transformist from California, about how strong, consistent branding can take your service business—from landscaping to window cleaning—to the next level. Chris shares insights from working with industry pros like Brian Fullerton and Paul Jameson, and they reveal details about a free workshop on August 6th to help you create a brand style guide and attract dream clients. If you’re ready to stand out and charge what you’re worth, this episode’s for you.     “Your branding really sets the expectations of your customer’s experience. So if they feel that your brand is cheap, inconsistent, or sloppy, they’re going to assume that’s how working with you will feel too.” – Chris Beltran Topics Covered: Why branding is more than just a logo—it’s about perception and trust How consistent, professional branding impacts sales and client confidence The difference between looking professional vs. looking intentional Chris Beltran’s AIM Method: Audience alignment, Intentional imagery, and Messaging The importance of a brand style guide (and how it saves time + money) Real-life branding wins: Rebrands for Brian Fullerton, Paul Jameson, and Keith himself When (and why) to rebrand your business How branding creates subconscious emotional impact Common mistakes like “Canva-hacking” your brand and using generic logos Branding stats that prove its ROI (e.g., 33% revenue boost from consistency) The power of cohesive branding across business cards, websites, uniforms, and trucks Details on the free Brand Advantage Workshop happening August 6th Key Takeaways Branding Sets the Tone Before You Even Speak: Your website, logo, and truck wrap are doing the talking before you do. If your brand feels cheap or inconsistent, clients will assume your service is too—no matter how good you actually are. Consistency Builds Trust (and Referrals): Being visually consistent across your business cards, social media, shirts, and site isn’t just about looking good—it makes you memorable and referable. Consistency signals professionalism and builds instant credibility. Your Brand Should Reflect Your Value—Not Undercut It: If your service is premium but your branding looks DIY, you’re sending mixed signals. A cohesive, intentional brand tells clients, “Yes, I’m worth the price”—and makes it easier to charge what you’re really worth.   Connect with Chris Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itschrisbeltran/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/itschrisbeltran/ Website: https://chrisbeltran.mykajabi.com/ Brand Advantage Workshop: https://chrisbeltran.mykajabi.com/brand-advantage-keith 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:  Start Getting Leads Now https://www.footbridgemedia.com/keith Resources You Need To Build A Successful Business https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources 🙋♂️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 speaks with Ryan Kettering, founder of Prolific Brand Design. They explore the significance of comprehensive rebranding and the importance of establishing a brand identity. Ryan shares insights into his decade-long experience in branding service businesses, emphasizing the need for businesses to act authentically and resonate with their market. They discuss the role of core beliefs, marketing strategies, and the importance of client experiences that are genuinely worth talking about. This episode offers valuable advice on branding, personal growth, and building a memorable business identity.     “You can never spend enough money to say the right thing—only you can say it, because it’s your story. So why not be yourself, with the volume turned all the way up?” – Ryan Kettering Topics Covered: Meet Ryan Kettering: Branding Expert The Importance of Branding in Service Businesses Deep Dive into Branding Strategies Creating a Unique Brand Identity The Power of Authenticity in Branding Building a Strong Company Culture Marketing Strategies and Personal Motivation Creating Emotional Connections in Marketing The Power of Storytelling in Business   Practical Tips for Personal and Business Growth Key Takeaways Branding Isn’t Just Design—It’s Identity in Action: Ryan breaks down how powerful branding starts from within. It’s not just about logos and colors—it’s about knowing who you are, what you stand for, and how that shows up in every customer interaction. The strongest brands aren’t loud—they’re authentic and consistent.    Build a Business Worth Talking About: If no one’s talking about your business, you’re probably not doing anything worth talking about. Ryan challenges service business owners to stop chasing trends and start creating remarkable experiences that make customers want to share their story.   Purpose Isn’t in the Clouds—It’s in the Moment: Purpose isn’t some big, elusive dream. It’s doing the right thing, right now, with intention. Whether it’s blowing off every inch of a customer’s patio or handing a kid a Pokemon card, small, genuine actions leave lasting impressions.   Connect with Ryan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryankettering/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/ryankettering Website: https://prolificbranddesign.com/pages/about-us/ 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:  Start Getting Leads Now https://www.footbridgemedia.com/keith Resources You Need To Build A Successful Business https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources 🙋♂️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 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