In this episode, I give a raw and real update on what’s going on behind the scenes at the shop—including dealing with a surprise inspection from the NJDEP after a complaint was filed. I break down how we’re navigating that process and staying compliant while keeping the business moving forward. I also share a powerful new strategy I’ve been using to land more commercial accounts—good old-fashioned in-person hustle. Instead of waiting for leads to come to us, I’ve been walking into local business...
Jul 03, 2025•16 min
In this episode of The Side Hustle Squad Podcast, I sit down with Samantha Heald, VP of Corporate Sales at PostcardMania . We dive into the power of direct mail and how small businesses can use it to drive serious results. Samantha breaks down the wide range of marketing solutions PostcardMania offers — from targeted mailing campaigns to digital integrations — and shares expert tips on using Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) to grow your local reach without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for c...
Jul 01, 2025•32 min
In this episode of The Side Hustle Squad Podcast, I sit down with the one and only John Pajak from the Profits with Pajak podcast. We dive into one of the most important—and most overlooked—aspects of running a successful business: knowing your numbers. John breaks down why understanding your financials is the key to scaling your side hustle, boosting profit, and making smart decisions. We also talk through the wide range of services John offers over at johnpajak.com , including business coachin...
Jun 26, 2025•46 min
In this episode, Mike sits down with Adam Fullerton of Branded Bull to dive into the company’s bold move to go all-in on website design specifically for lawn care and landscaping businesses. We talk about why going niche was the right decision, how SEO is still king, and what most business owners are getting wrong when it comes to their online presence. Adam also breaks down the full suite of services Branded Bull offers to help you rank higher, convert more leads, and stand out in a crowded mar...
Jun 24, 2025•23 min
In this episode of The Side Hustle Squad Podcast, Mike sits down with Matt Dickey of Plum Creek Lawncare out of Sparta, Illinois. Matt’s story is a true testament to grit, hustle, and knowing when to pivot. He shares how he spent over a decade juggling a firewood business while operating heavy equipment in a coal mine—all while quietly building a lawn maintenance side hustle. After making the leap full-time into entrepreneurship, Matt realized that the debt from the firewood business was holding...
Jun 19, 2025•39 min
The spring rush is finally in the rearview—and now it’s time to check in with you. In this post-Father’s Day episode, I’m talking directly to the business owners, who’ve been pushing hard all spring. Let’s be real: burnout creeps in fast if you don’t pause to reset. I’m sharing practical ways to step back, recharge your batteries, and protect your energy. From unplugging for a day to revisiting your “why,” this episode is your reminder to recharge and reset. https://www.instagram.com/sidehustles...
Jun 17, 2025•13 min
In this special episode, I sit down with my wife for a candid check-in on all things Coastal Fertilization and Weed Control. We chat about how the business looks from her perspective, how the kids are handling the busy season, and what marketing strategies have been catching her eye lately. It’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the lawn care hustle through the lens of family life, teamwork, and staying grounded. https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlesquadpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/coas...
Jun 12, 2025•25 min
In this episode of The Side Hustle Squad Podcast, we’re zooming way out. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind, mowing lawns, sending invoices, answering calls. But what happens when you stop and ask, “Where is this all going?” Today, we’re talking about the power of long-term thinking and how to plan for not just tomorrow, but 10 years from now. Whether long-range planning comes naturally to you or not, this episode gives you simple strategies to build a clear vision, reverse-engineer y...
Jun 10, 2025•16 min
Are you serious about growing your lawn care or landscaping business? Then EQUIP Expo needs to be on your calendar. In this episode, I break down why this is the must-attend event for anyone in the green industry. From hands-on demos of the latest equipment to insider education, networking with industry leaders, and discovering new service ideas—you’ll walk away with tools, connections, and motivation to take your business to the next level. Whether you’re side hustling or scaling full time, thi...
Jun 05, 2025•14 min
In this episode of The Side Hustle Squad Podcast, we’re flipping the script on growth. You don’t need more clients, you need to serve your current ones better. We dive into smart, proven strategies to increase revenue by offering additional services to the clients who already know, like, and trust. https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlesquadpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/coastalfertilization/ Branded Bull Website Design: https://www.brandedbull.com/ https://go.getjobber.com/sidehustlesquad (Ge...
Jun 03, 2025•14 min
In this episode, we dive into the Jobber Grant — a no-strings-attached funding opportunity for small home service businesses. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, this grant could be a game-changer. I break down what the Jobber Grant is, who it’s for, how to apply, and why more entrepreneurs should be taking advantage of it. Don’t miss this chance to learn about free money that could help grow your business — and how to go after it with confidence....
May 29, 2025•10 min
In this special episode, I’m excited to share my very first appearance on The Green Industry Podcast with Paul Jamison — the conversation that helped spark this whole podcasting journey. Paul and I dive into how I got started in the green industry, balancing a full-time job with a growing side hustle, and the mindset it takes to build something from the ground up. https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlesquadpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/coastalfertilization/ Branded Bull Website Design: https:...
May 27, 2025•28 min
If everything in your business has to go through you, growth will always hit a ceiling. In this episode, I dig into why bottlenecks happen, how to recognize if you’re the one causing them, and what steps you can take to fix it, without sacrificing quality or control. From building systems to trusting your team, this episode is all about getting out of your own way so your business can truly scale. https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlesquadpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/coastalfertilization/ B...
May 22, 2025•12 min
You’ve built your business from the ground up — but now you’re buried in work, wearing every hat, and wondering if it’s finally time to bring someone on board. In this episode, Mike breaks down the key signs that it’s time to hire help, what tasks you should consider offloading first, and how to overcome the fear of letting go. Let’s talk about taking that next step toward growth without burning out. https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlesquadpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/coastalfertilization...
May 20, 2025•11 min
In this deeply personal episode, Mike shares the story of his dog Cole, a loyal companion who stood by him through every chapter of life, from starting his family to raising kids. Cole wasn’t just a pet; he was family. Mike talks about the pain of losing him, the lessons he left behind, and how we begin to move forward after such a loss. If you’ve ever loved and lost a dog, this one’s for you. https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlesquadpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/coastalfertilization/ Brand...
May 15, 2025•11 min
Running a lawn care business isn’t just about mowing lawns and managing crews—it’s about managing life at home, too. In this episode, Mike dives into the often-unspoken role of a supportive spouse and how their encouragement, patience, and behind-the-scenes work make everything possible. Mike shares practical ways lawn care business owners can return that support, especially when their spouse is handling the household and kids during the chaos of the busy season. https://www.instagram.com/sidehu...
May 13, 2025•11 min
In this episode, Mike dives into one of the biggest milestones in growing your lawn or landscape business—hiring your first employee. Whether you’re overwhelmed with work or looking to scale, this move can make or break your momentum. I share practical tips, common pitfalls, and real-world insights from a recent mastermind session with other green industry pros. Learn how to hire smart, train right, and avoid the costly mistakes many first-time employers make. If you’re ready to build a team the...
May 08, 2025•15 min
Larry shares the story of when his truck caught fires and how he managed to put it out before things got worse. We break down exactly what happened, what he did right, and what every landscaper or contractor needs to know in case they’re ever in the same situation. From having the right fire extinguisher on board to steps you should take immediately after pulling over, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world lessons that could save your gear and prevent injury. https://www.in...
May 06, 2025•13 min
In this episode, Mike is joined once again by Larry Delli Santi as we dive into how his lawn care company is doing now that they’re into week three of the cutting season. We talk about the early-season momentum, the unexpected challenges, and the valuable lessons learned so far. Larry shares both wins and losses he’s experienced already this year, offering insights that every side entrepreneur can learn from. https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlesquadpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/coastalfert...
May 01, 2025•17 min
In this episode, Mike breaks down the key things you need to consider before adding something new: from understanding customer demand to calculating costs and protecting your brand. Mike will also share strategies for how to market your new service to your employees to get them bought in, and how to introduce it to your current customers to drive quick sales. If you want to grow your business smartly without overwhelming your team or confusing your clients, this episode is packed with actionable...
Apr 29, 2025•15 min
Before you dive in, learn from the common pitfalls that trip up beginners. Mike breaks down the top 10 mistakes to avoid—like overspending on equipment, underpricing your services, and taking on the wrong clients. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to tighten up your operation, this episode will help you set the foundation for a profitable and stress-free lawn care business. https://www.sidehustlesquadpodcast.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlesquadpodcast/ https://www.instagra...
Apr 24, 2025•14 min
We’ve officially moved out of our rental shop and into a space we own—and it’s a game changer. In this episode, I give you an inside look at the journey of developing our new shop for the lawn care businesses. From planning and construction to the challenges we faced and what this upgrade means for operations, I’m pulling back the curtain on it all. https://www.sidehustlesquadpodcast.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlesquadpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/coastalfertilization/ Branded Bu...
Apr 22, 2025•12 min
In this episode, we talk about doing a spring cleanup on your business, like cutting dead leads and problem clients, cleaning up your CRM! We also dig into why uniforms aren’t just about looking good—they’re about building trust, boosting safety, and turning your crew into walking advertisements. Whether you’re solo or running a full team, high-visibility branded gear can instantly level up your business image and set you apart from the competition. Tune in to hear how a simple shirt can make a ...
Apr 17, 2025•15 min
In this episode, Mike catches up with Larry from Amazing Creations Landscaping to hear how things are shaping up for his business as we head into the cutting season. We dive into how he’s feeling about the year ahead, what’s changed since last season, and his overall outlook for the busy months to come. Whether you’re in lawn care or just love hearing from motivated entrepreneurs, this is a great behind-the-scenes look into running a successful lawn care business. https://www.sidehustlesquadpodc...
Apr 15, 2025•20 min
During the spring rush, it’s easy to focus so much on the work itself that we overlook the behind-the-scenes tools that actually bring the customers in. Mike will walk you through a quick rundown of things to check—voicemail, websites, contact forms, payment links, social media, and more—to make sure you’re not leaving any money on the table. This episode is a reminder to pause, audit, and tighten up so your business runs smoother and looks sharper during the busiest time of year. https://www.si...
Apr 10, 2025•14 min
Mike dives into the chaos of moving his lawn care business to a new shop, while juggling unpredictable spring weather, a flood of incoming leads, and the busiest time of the year. Mike shares some stress reducing tactics such as on staying organized, keeping customers in the loop, the importance of hitting pause to make time for what really matters—like family. If you’re a small business owner feeling the pressure, hope this episode helps. https://www.sidehustlesquadpodcast.com/ https://www.inst...
Apr 08, 2025•15 min
In this episode , Mikes sits down with endurance coach and elite triathlete Paul Capuzzo, founder of Capuzzo Multisport Coaching. Paul shares his incredible journey from record-setting high school and Division 1 runner to coaching athletes to PRs, Boston Marathon qualifications, and IRONMAN finishes. We dive into the mindset of an endurance athlete, the business of coaching, and how discipline in sports translates to entrepreneurship. Whether you’re an aspiring triathlete, a business owner, or j...
Apr 03, 2025•32 min
Every entrepreneur faces doubters, critics, and straight-up haters. In this episode of The Side Hustle Squad Podcast, I break down how to turn negativity into motivation and prove the doubters wrong. I share my own experience of starting a lawn care business—when someone questioned if I even knew how to cut a lawn—and how I flipped that doubt into drive. https://www.sidehustlesquadpodcast.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlesquadpodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/coastalfertilization/ Brand...
Apr 01, 2025•12 min
In this episode, we dive into the power of team meetings and how they can transform your business. Regular meetings aren’t just about checking in—they’re a tool for boosting efficiency, improving communication, and building a stronger, more motivated team. I’ll break down the key benefits of holding team meetings, from streamlining operations to enhancing customer service and ensuring workplace safety. https://www.sidehustlesquadpodcast.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlesquadpodcast/ http...
Mar 27, 2025•14 min
In this episode, Mike breaks down the 10 most important things you need to know before launching your service-based business. From market demand and pricing strategies to legal requirements and customer acquisition. Plus, Mikes shares insights on time management, scaling your business, and delivering top-notch customer service so you can turn your side hustle into a thriving venture. If you’re serious about making money on the side—or even going full-time—this episode is for you! Listen now and ...
Mar 25, 2025•19 min
