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Profits with Pajak

John Pajaksites.libsyn.com
Profits with Pajak is a weekly podcast that focuses on providing actionable strategies and insights for small business owners in the green industry. Hosted by John Pajak, each episode features in-depth discussions with successful entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and industry experts, who share their experiences and lessons learned on building and growing profitable businesses. From financial planning and operations advice, to marketing and sales tips, the podcast covers a wide range of topics that are relevant to small business owners in the green industry. The show is designed to help listeners unlock the full potential of their businesses, by providing practical advice and proven strategies for creating sustainable profits in the green industry. Whether you're just starting out or are looking to take your business to the next level, the "Profits with Pajak" podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow their business and create long-term success in the green industry.
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Episodes

Why You Need to Get in the Room: The Real ROI of Industry Conferences Ep. #378

In this episode of Profits with Pajak , John breaks down his experience at Lawn & Landscape Technology Conference in Las Vegas and why attending isn’t just a trip: it’s a growth strategy. Learn how to maximize every dollar you spend on conferences, network with intention, and discover tools and tactics that can take your business to the next level. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below in...

Jul 25, 202523 min

Cash, Cards & Cutting Clean: Answering Real Questions from the Field Ep. # 377

In this Inbox Insights edition of Profits with Pajak , John tackles two very different questions from listeners in the field. First up: Should you stay cash-only in today’s business world, or is it time to modernize your payment options even if you're trying to keep things “low profile”? Then, John weighs in on those sleek, powerful Walker mowers you’ve seen at Equip Expo. Are they worth the investment, or just eye candy for gearheads? Expect real talk, a little tough love, and a lot of practica...

Jul 23, 202532 min

Think Bigger! Ep. #376

In this episode of Profits with Pajak , John shares a raw, honest take on the difference between working in the green industry and building a real business within it. Drawing from personal stories and equipment open house encounters, he challenges solo operators and side hustlers to think bigger, plan smarter, and step beyond the cycle of hustle. Whether you’re building an empire or just trying to get through the week, this one will challenge your mindset and help you aim higher. Comments and Qu...

Jul 21, 202521 min

Thieves Hate This One Simple Trick (And 5 More That Work) Ep. #375

Your equipment is your livelihood so don’t let it disappear. In this episode of Profits with Pajak, we’re covering real-world theft prevention strategies to keep your trucks, trailers, and gear secure. Learn how to lock it down, track it fast, and recover your assets before it’s too late. Whether you’ve already had something stolen or want to make sure it never happens, this episode is your game plan. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Po...

Jul 18, 202534 min

She Hung Up on Me and I Deserved It Ep. #374

A client with no email, no texting, and a big sob story? In this episode, John Pajak shares an encounter that checks every red flag box. Learn why ignoring your gut and compromising your rules leads to frustration, and how Yardbook can help streamline your process, if you stick to your standards. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below into your browser. Upcoming Events : Get 50% OFF Equip Expo...

Jul 16, 202531 min

Nickeled, Dimed, and Digitally Mugged Ep. #373

In this episode of Profits with Pajak , John shares a real-world rant about hidden state compliance fees and a frustrating restaurant experience that proves just how normalized “fee stacking” has become. From business entity reports to card processing surcharges, we unpack why it’s not just about the money, it’s about the principle. If you've ever felt nickel-and-dimed just for doing business the right way, this one's for you. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.co...

Jul 14, 202528 min

Profit by Design: Rebuilding Your Business Model From the Inside Out Ep. #372

Most green industry business owners chase profit by raising prices or cutting costs but few ever stop to redesign their business for profit . In this solo episode, John breaks down how to build better profits from the inside out by simplifying services, eliminating customization, and structuring operations that serve your goals not your stress. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below into your ...

Jul 11, 202539 min

When to Fire a Client and How to Stay Profitable This Summer Ep. #371

In this Inbox Insights episode of Profits with Pajak , John answers two listener questions about firing difficult clients and protecting profits mid-season. Learn how to professionally let go of toxic customers, adjust your pricing without fear, and make smart moves that keep your green industry business thriving through the summer. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below into your browser. Upc...

Jul 09, 202527 min

Business Freedom Ep. #370

In this special 4th of July episode, John Pajak reflects on what freedom really means as a business owner. From the right to start a company to the responsibility of stewarding that freedom well, this episode is a patriotic blend of gratitude, hustle, and truth. If you’ve ever felt stuck, this episode will remind you: in this country, you’re one decision away from a better life. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy a...

Jul 04, 202515 min

It’s Your Business. You Write the Rules. Ep. #369

In this episode, John Pajak reminds you that you get to write the rules for your business. Whether it’s pricing, services, or how many days you work. There’s no law that says you have to copy the guy next door. If you’re stuck in the “that’s how it’s always done” trap, this is your wake-up call. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below into your browser. Upcoming Events : Get 50% OFF Equip Expo ...

Jul 02, 202527 minEp. 369

Tripping Over Dollars to Pick Up Dimes Ep. #368

Tiffany Pajak joins John for a humorous yet meaningful look at how small “money-saving” decisions can cost more in the long run. From a cracked $5 dog bowl to business delivery routes, this episode unpacks the true cost of cutting corners and teaches listeners how to evaluate value over price. It’s a relatable conversation every green industry pro, and spouse, can appreciate. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and ...

Jun 30, 202533 minEp. 368

Don’t Coast Now: How to Squeeze More Profit Before Fall Hits Ep. #367

Feeling the mid-summer slump in your lawn or landscape business? Don’t coast into fall, finish strong. In this episode, John Pajak shares three profit-boosting strategies you can implement right now to tighten margins, generate fast cash flow, and upsell services you already have in the truck. From running a prepay campaign to raising rates on last-minute clients, this is your summer success blueprint. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple P...

Jun 27, 202518 minEp. 367

What To Do When Life Hits Hard But Business Keeps Going Ep. #366

When life throws a curveball, whether it’s loss, stress, or personal crisis, how do you keep running a business that doesn’t slow down? In this honest and heartfelt episode, John Pajak shares how he’s navigating grief while staying present as a business owner. Learn how to simplify your operations, lean on systems, and show up with integrity, even when you're not at 100%. If you’re feeling the weight of life right now, this episode is a reminder that you’re not alone and you’re stronger than you...

Jun 25, 202521 minEp. 366

Don't Let Your Gear Melt: Hot Weather Maintenance Musts Ep. #365

When the heat cranks up, your equipment takes a beating. In this solo episode of Profits with Pajak, John breaks down essential summertime maintenance tips to keep your commercial mowing and application equipment running right. Learn how to clean engine cooling fins, inspect hydro fans, and avoid costly breakdowns before they start. Don’t let the heat cook your profits — tune in and protect your gear. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Po...

Jun 23, 202533 minEp. 365

Stop the Spam and Reclaim Your Phone Line Ep. #364

Tired of wasting time on spam calls from fake local numbers? In this crash course episode, John Pajak reveals how spammers are spoofing your area code—and what you can do to stop them. From Google Voice tricks to VoIP upgrades and IVR menus that block bots, this episode delivers tactical ways to reclaim your time and protect your business. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below into your brows...

Jun 20, 202521 minEp. 364

Trust Broken: When Employees Take Advantage of Your Grace featuring Marvin Salcido Ep #363

In this raw and real episode of Profits with Pajak , John Pajak sits down with Marvin Salcido to unpack the emotional and operational chaos that comes from employee betrayal, no-call/no-shows, and abuse of company resources. From personal stories of broken trust to the importance of drawing the line with clear policy enforcement, this episode is a must-listen for any business owner navigating the fine balance between grace and accountability. Learn how to protect your team, your business, and yo...

Jun 18, 20251 hr 17 minEp. 363

Bars, Strip Clubs, and Company Trucks. Ep. #362

When a no-call no-show turned into 300+ miles of unauthorized use, bar visits, and strip club stops, all in a fully branded company truck, John Pajak had no choice but to act. He shares the full story, explains how to lock things down quickly, and gives every business owner the tools to prevent reputational damage and enforce their policies with confidence. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links bel...

Jun 16, 202529 minEp. 362

Equipment Doesn’t Fail Ep. #361

John shares a story about how equipment failure nearly derailed his operation. Not because of bad machines, but because of skipped maintenance and poor planning. Pajak unpacks how every breakdown has a cause… and most of the time, that cause is you . If you’ve ever blamed the gear before checking your habits, this episode is your wake up call. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below into your b...

Jun 13, 202514 minEp. 361

When Cheap Clients Cost You the Most & Your Gut Gets It Wrong Ep. #360

In this heartfelt solo episode of the 47 at 47 series, John Pajak shares two brutally honest lessons that shaped his business and his mindset. Lesson #4: Cheap clients may look profitable on paper, but they can bleed your business dry in hidden ways. Lesson #5: Your gut can be a great guide but without data to back it up, you’re just guessing with confidence. John opens up about clients who drained his energy, moments when emotion clouded logic, and how learning to pair instinct with insight hel...

Jun 11, 202516 minEp. 360

Faith Keeps You Grounded Ep. #359

In one of the most personal episodes of Profits with Pajak, John shares a vulnerable moment that changed everything, a breakdown in the car with his wife and daughter where he finally said the quiet part out loud: he wanted to hurt himself. What followed wasn’t instant healing… but surrender. John explains how his lowest point became the turning point. Not through Scripture, but through the undeniable presence of The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. This episode is a raw, honest look at fai...

Jun 09, 202514 minEp. 359

The Profit Margin Playbook: Mastering Your Numbers for Success Ep. #358

In an interview with Joey Cobberly of " The Joey Cobberly Show ", John shares his personal journey, including a failed lawn care business that spurred his interest in financial literacy and budgeting. Pajak talks about his "Profits with Pajak" podcast and his coaching and workshops he procides to help business owners understand their numbers, improve profitability, and achieve their goals. The discussion also touches on practical business advice, such as pricing strategies, employee management, ...

Jun 06, 20252 hrEp. 358

Profits are not Greed Ep. #357

In this episode of the Profits with Pajak, 47 at 47 series, John and his daughter Claire unpack a powerful truth that changed everything: profit isn’t a luxury... It's a lifeline. John shares raw lessons from the early days of Johnny Boy Lawn Care, including how guilt, assumptions, and bad math nearly broke him. A surprising story about paintball supplies and a coaching client afraid to raise prices helps drive home the difference between price and value. If you’ve ever felt bad about charging w...

Jun 04, 202526 minEp. 357

Know Your Numbers or Stay Broke Ep. #356

In the kickoff of our 47 at 47 series, John Pajak is joined by his daughter Claire to unpack one of the hardest lessons he ever learned in business … the true cost of not knowing your numbers. From the painful story of Johnny Boy Lawn Care to the creation of Budgets, Breakevens, and Bottom Lines™, this episode is a must-listen for anyone tired of working hard and getting nowhere. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy ...

Jun 02, 202522 minEp. 356

Summer Survival Ep. #355

Feeling the heat? In this episode, John shares practical strategies to help lawn care business owners avoid burnout, stay productive, and survive the grind of peak summer season — mentally, physically, and financially. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below into your browser. Upcoming Events : Get your Equip Expo 2025 tickets NOW with promo code PAJAK for only $12.50 https://plus.mcievents.com...

May 30, 202523 minEp. 355

Debt-Free and Denied: Why the System Doesn’t Reward Responsibility Ep. #354

Pajak shares the surprising story of how having zero debt and money in the bank actually hurt his chances of getting a mortgage. This episode exposes how credit scores reward debt, not discipline and why true financial freedom comes from living within your means and building your business to fund the life you want. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below into your browser. Upcoming Events : Get...

May 28, 202524 minEp. 354

Memorial Day: Remember, Reflect, and Respect the Grind Ep. #353

In this special Memorial Day bonus episode, John reflects on the true meaning of the holiday and how the freedoms we enjoy as business owners were paid for by the ultimate sacrifice. A reminder to remember the fallen, reflect on your purpose, and lead with honor. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below into your browser. Upcoming Events : Get your Equip Expo 2025 tickets NOW with promo code PAJ...

May 26, 20255 minEp. 353

You Don’t Have a Pricing Problem You Have a Courage Problem Ep. #352

If you’re undercharging out of fear, this episode is for you. John breaks down the real hourly cost of a mowing crew and shares a powerful lesson from a $30,000 job that got lowballed. Stop guessing. Start pricing with confidence. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below into your browser. Upcoming Events : Get your Equip Expo 2025 tickets NOW with promo code PAJAK for only $12.50 https://plus.m...

May 23, 202525 minEp. 352

The Lobster Principle: Grow or Stay Stuck Ep. #351

In this episode of Profits with Pajak , John dives into the “Lobster Growth Analogy” how pain, discomfort, and vulnerability are the catalysts for real business and personal growth. If you’ve been feeling stuck or squeezed, maybe you’re just ready to shed your old shell and step into the next version of yourself. Learn how to recognize the signs, embrace the discomfort, and grow through it, not around it. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Appl...

May 21, 202511 minEp. 351

How Promo Pete Exposed the Flaws in Julio’s Pricing Ep. #350

In this episode of Profits with Pajak , John shares the story of Julio, a landscaper whose generous promotions were exploited by “Promo Pete,” resulting in more than $2,725 in losses on fire pit installations. Learn how to protect your profits by structuring deals with clear boundaries, tracking your costs, and avoiding common pitfalls in discount marketing. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links be...

May 19, 202529 minEp. 350

The P.L.O.T. Twist That Saved My Business Ep. #349

Feeling stuck? You might be in the middle of your P.L.O.T. Pain, Lesson, Opportunity, and Transformation. In this episode, John Pajak shares the P.L.O.T. twist that nearly broke him… and ended up becoming the turning point that built his most profitable business. Learn how to reframe your hard seasons and use them as a launchpad for growth. Comments and Questions are welcome. Send to ProfitswithPajak@gmail.com Episode Links : Apple Podcast Listeners- Copy and paste the links below into your brow...

May 16, 202513 minEp. 349
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