In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, we welcome Kirk Armstrong from Armstrong Sales Coaching.  Kirk provides an overview of the concierge selling method, discusses the importance of clear communication and expectations, and encourages those in a sales capacity, or with aspirations to be in a sales role, to blaze their own trail. This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Macey Wollenberg, Account Manager, LandCare, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape.

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, we welcome Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software.  You may recognize Miles as one of our hosts; today he removes that hat and joins us as guest.  Discussion topics include defining KPI, reviewing categories and types of metrics, and thoughts around utilization within a business. This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape.

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, we welcome guest James Warner, co-owner of Odd Job Larry, a handyman and remodeling business in Kenosha, WI. Topics discussed include the value of consistent training and professional development, the process of ownership transition within a business, and the key to developing strong and healthy relationships within an organization. This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape.

From our families to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!  Our celebrations may look a little (or a lot) different this year, but the focus on giving thanks remains.  We have a new group of folks to be thankful for this year - our listeners.  Thank you!  Perhaps you'll find the chance over the holiday to 'carve' out a little time to listen to episodes you may have missed.  We'll be back next week with a brand-new episode. 

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, we welcome guest Neil Bales, President and COO of LandPatterns, a landscape architectural firm in Dallas, TX.  Topics discussed include how to be an intentional leader, the importance of mentorship, and how faith has shaped and supported Neil's personal journey in the landscape industry.  Our guest also shares thoughts on his recent recognition as NALP Young Entrepreneur of the Year.  This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape.

In the 25th episode of the Growing in the Green Industry Podcast, hosts Miles Kuperus III, system architect at Include Software, Neal Glatt, managing partner of GrowTheBench, Luke Melograno, production coordinator at Mariani Landscape and Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape reflect back on the first 24 episodes, including favorite topics, individual takeaways and lessons learned, and personal and professionals changes since the podcast launch.

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our guest Warren Gorowitz, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Hunter Industries, discusses how every business can engage with a sustainable approach.  Topics discussed include what corporate social responsibility encompasses, the simple steps every business can take to get started being a better corporate citizen, and how sustainability has changed from purely environmentalism.  This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape.

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our guest Zech Strauser of Strauser's Nature's Helpers, discusses sustainability and environmental consciousness in landscape maintenance. Topics covered include the importance of balance, vision casting, the value of intrapreneurship, and leaving a legacy. This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, and Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape. For more information, please visit http://strausernature.com.

Our hosts are busy at LANDSCAPES Virtual 2020 this week, and we're excited to be back next week with a brand-new episode. In the meantime, feel free to check out some of the episodes you may have missed.

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our guest Paul Fraynd of Sun Valley Landscaping discusses pros and cons of partnerships and how to motivate employees.  Topics covered include compensation plans for employees at all levels, navigating family business dynamics, and placing people over profit.  This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape.

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our guest Macey Wollenberg of LandCare discusses her journey from a college graduate to a future manager. Topics covered include the importance of investing in people, making work more than a paycheck, and knowing when to make a career move. This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, and Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape. 

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our hosts, along with guest host Jenn Myers of NALP, discuss NALP's LANDSCAPES virtual conference.  Topics covered include schedule highlights, tips for a successful conference, and how to network effectively in a virtual environment.  This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape.

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our guest Mike Bogan of LandCare discusses how culture, purpose, and core values drive success.  Topics covered include how to manage organizational change through pilot testing, discovering the what really motivates employees, and key steps needed for solid market expansion.  This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape. For more information, please visit https://landcare.com. 

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our guest Richard Kuperus of the Farmside Landscape & Design discusses how he balances work, school, and family dynamics in business. Topics covered include how to navigate business relationships as a young professional, navigating shifting dynamics at work, and balancing ambition with humility. This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape.

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our guest Thom Singer, professional speaker, advisor, and content creator, discusses how to properly network and build relationships for sales, job offers, and career advancement.  Topics covered include the importance of thank you notes, building great mentor relationships, and how to connect authentically through virtual methods.  This episode is hosted by NealGlatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, and Brett Lemke, VP of R.M. Landscape. For more information, visit https://thomsinger.com. 

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our guest Ed Walsh of The Greathouse Company discusses how a team mentality and building relationships helps him sell and succeed. Topics covered include the importance of values, selling while social distancing, and what makes the green industry attractive regardless of previous education or knowledge.  This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape. For more information, visit https://www.greathouselandscape.com.

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our guest Chris Joyce of the Joyce Companies discusses how developing a family culture and leading with empathy is key to his success.  Topics covered include how to balance employee career development, the value of associations and networking, and learning how to shift from being a great operator to being a great leader.  This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape. For more information, visit https://www.joycelandscaping.com. 

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our guest Taylor Milliken of Milosi Landscaping discusses the importance of coaching in personal and professional success.  Topics covered include training to all levels, budgeting for development, learning from professional coaches, and growing through learning.  This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape. For more information, visit https://milosilandscape.com. 

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, the panel interviews four faculty members from horticultural programs around the country.  Topics covered include the value of collegiate education in the industry, the importance of well-balanced education, and advice for professionals at all levels.  Our guests are Daniel Greenwell from Piedmont Technical College, Whitney Phillips from University of Mount Olive, Liz Riley from Alamance Community College, and Skyler Westergard from Brigham Young University - Idaho. This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape, and guest host Jenn Myers, Senior Director of Workforce Development at NALP.

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, our guest Marty Grunder of Grunder Landscaping and The Grow Group discusses how balancing processes while allowing his people to be creative propels his company to success.  Topics covered include why company values matter, learning from failures, embracing differing opinions at work, and capitalizing on change.  This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape. For more information, visit https://grunderlandscaping.com.

In this episode of Growing in the Green Industry, the panelists discuss their questions for each other including why they love to work in the industry and where they see the industry evolving.  Topics covered include, career paths in the green industry, what motivates employees, adaptation of technology, and the future of work.  This episode is hosted by Neal Glatt, Managing Partner of GrowTheBench, Miles Kuperus, System Architect at Include Software, Brett Lemcke, VP of R.M. Landscape, and Luke Melograno, Production Coordinator at Mariani Landscape.

In this episode, Weller talks about starting and growing his company, lessons learned along the way, and how engagement with NALP and its members has helped drive him to create a better business. Cole, with his brother Brent, co-founded Weller Brothers in 2001. He attended Southeast Technical Institute in Sioux Falls where he studied landscape design. His passion for creating beautiful backyards has set Weller Brothers apart from the competition in the design and construction of the most stunning backyards in the region. He serves as CEO and leads the sales team with passion and enthusiasm. Cole and his wife Kari have three children, Roslyn, Elouise and Whitaker. His hobbies are golfing, hunting, snow skiing and traveling. For more information, please visit www.wellerbrothers.com.

Experienced in the trade since 1987, Shayne Newman founded YardApes, Inc. in 1990 and holds the title of President. Shayne received a B.S. in Finance from the University of Connecticut, is a Landscape Industry Certified Technician, Landscape Industry Certified Manager, holds a Connecticut Supervisory Pesticide License, and is a Certified Landscape Designer. The YardApes team takes great pride in being one of only thirteen Landscape Industry Accredited Companies in the United States and Connecticut’s only Landscape Industry Accredited Company. Shayne has generously volunteered his time and passion to the National Association of Landscape Professionals for over ten years by serving on several NALP committees and also serving on the NALP Board of Directors. In addition, Shayne has enjoyed volunteering his time on the Board of Directors of several non-profit organizations in his hometown of New Milford, Connecticut. Always involved in the communities of Northwest Connecticut, Shayne created and hosts the annual charity - Quad-Am Golf Classic. Since 2006, the golf tournament has helped to build awareness for area non-profits and raising over $84,000. Additionally, YardApes has participated in PLANET's former Day of Service since its inception, volunteering time and materials to revitalize the landscapes of civic venues including The Creative Playground, Pratt Nature Center, Harrybrooke Park, Sullivan Farm, Brookfield Public Library, The Children’s Center, Abbey of Regina Laudis, Steep Rock Association, Kent Land Trust and Sarah Noble Intermediate School. For more information about YardApes, please visit https://www.yardapes.com/. 

Frank Mariani is CEO of Mariani Landscape, which was founded by his father, Vito Mariani, Sr. in 1958. It began as a small residential landscape maintenance firm working primarily in Chicago’s North Shore. Today, Mariani Landscape specializes in high-end residential landscape architecture, construction and garden maintenance. Frank brings his extensive knowledge of landscape maintenance to the design process resulting in projects that are not only beautiful but sustainable.  Frank is passionate that landscape design should improve with age and this insight has resulted in numerous design awards for his firm whose work can be seen throughout the United States. In addition to Mariani Landscape, Frank also owns two other sister companies. Mariani Plants, a 700+ acre wholesale nursery, with locations in Illinois and Wisconsin that provides top quality B&B and containerized plant material. Hampshire Farms is a 50+ acre and 1,000,000 SF wholesale greenhouse that produces over 400 varieties of top quality perennials for Home Depot Stores throughout the Midwest. Frank serves on the board of directors of the National Association of Landscape Professionals, is the President of NALP’s Foundation Board and Current President of the Children’s Brittle Bone Foundation. He also serves on the boards of directors for several other companies. In 2018 the National Association of Landscape Professionals honored Frank with their first Lifetime Leadership Award. Frank and his wife, Sherri, reside in Lake Forest, Illinois and have two children, Frank V. and Alexandra and son-in-law, John and grandsons, Joey and Anthony.  For more information on Mariani Landscape, click the below link: https://www.marianilandscape.com.

This week, members of the NALP Women in Landscape Network (WILN) take over the Growing in the Green Industry podcast.  NALP’s Jenn Myers, Sr. Director of Workforce Development, hosts and is joined by guests Lisa Fiore, Co-Founder of LandscapeHub, Callan Dudley, General Manager of Southern Landscape Group, and Claire Goldman, Owner of R&R Landscaping.  Our female industry leaders chat about several topics, including personal stories of growth and advancement, how we can continue to welcome women to the landscape industry (women are currently about 11% of all employees) and some new initiatives the WILN is focused on for 2020.  For more information about the NALP WILN, visit https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/women.

Phil Harwood is a managing partner of GrowTheBench.com, an online resource for green industry education and employee development. GrowTheBench, founded and managed by Phil and Neal Glatt, recently acquired the Snowfighters Institute, focused on education and networking for the snow & ice management industry. Phil is also the CEO of Pro-Motion Consulting, a management consulting firm that has been recognized twice by the Snow & Ice Management Association with the prestigious Snow Industry Commitment Award. Phil holds an Executive MBA with honors and Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing, both from Michigan State University. For more information, visit https://growthebench.com/content/Default.aspx.

Deep dive into conversation with Jeff Rossen, Founder and CEO of Rossen Landscape, and his colleague Lauren Webster, Client Relationship Manager of Rossen Landscape, while they discuss how to recruit and retain employees. Jeff and Lauren provide different perspectives of the recruitment process to help educate employers on what future employees are looking for when deciding what company to invest in. In addition, Jeff and Lauren touch base on the importance of having a mentor throughout the recruitment process.  For more information about Jeff Rossen and Lauren Webster of Rossen Landscape, please visit https://www.rossenlandscape.com/.

As a recent graduate of the College of Agricultural Sciences at the Pennsylvania State University, Jack Pohutsky is beginning his professional career with R.P. Marzilli in Massachusetts. He studied Landscape Contracting, Design/Build option with a minor in Horticulture. The BA degree encompasses courses such as residential design, plant identification and establishment, and construction fundamentals, and teaches each student the importance of functional installations and client satisfaction. Jack hopes to bring the perspective he has gained from three internships to improve system efficiencies through collaborative efforts and consistent communication. He wants to grow alongside the talented R.P. Marzilli team and aspires to help others find professionals careers.