Send us a text On this illuminating episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, we shine a spotlight on Ariel Rodriguez, the founder of Elighting and Worldwide Distributors, a true industry pioneer in outdoor and landscape lighting. From cold calls at 17 to designing custom lighting systems for luxury estates and commercial properties, Ariel shares his journey, insights, and battle-tested strategies for thriving in a rapidly evolving industry. On this episode, we cover: - Ariel’s early days in telema...
Jul 01, 2025•31 min•Season 1Ep. 77
Send us a text On this powerful and transparent episode, host Willie Rodriguez sits down with Alberti Ortiz, founder of Boca Landscape Designs, to explore how landscaping became more than just a business — it became a calling. From mowing lawns at age 13 for $4 an hour to becoming a creative visionary in landscape design, Alberti’s story is one of faith, surrender, and transformation. Willie, who has been following Alberti’s journey on Instagram, dives deep into how Alberti overcame limiting bel...
Jun 17, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 1Ep. 76
Send us a text On this Episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, host Willie Rodriguez welcomes Efrain Santos, the 25-year-old founder of Keyscape Landscape and Design, whose journey from job site translator to high-end landscape contractor is nothing short of inspiring. Starting at just 16, Efrain was managing his uncle’s landscape job sites and learning pricing, sourcing, and client communication firsthand. After gaining turf experience with Hellas in Texas including work on SoFi Stadium—Efrain r...
Jun 03, 2025•30 min•Season 1Ep. 75
Send us a text On this insightful episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, we sit down with Mr. Bob, a pioneering entrepreneur who built his career selling workers' compensation insurance to the largest nurseries in Miami-Dade County. Discover how Bob identified a gap in the market and filled it with dedication, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to service. Bob shares his incredible journey from his early days working for a State Farm agent during his summers as a teenager to founding his ow...
May 20, 2025•54 min•Season 1Ep. 74
Send us a text On this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, we dive into the world of software and systems that are transforming horticulture businesses across the globe. Host Willie Rodriguez sits down with Joshua and Garrett Walsh from Emprise Agriware, a full-service ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) solution built specifically for the horticulture industry. We explore how Agriware, built on Microsoft’s Business Central platform, empowers growers and nurseries by providing tools for invent...
May 08, 2025•42 min•Season 1Ep. 73
Send us a text After a much-needed break, your host Willie Rodriguez and co-host Eddie Gonzalez are back in the studio and ready to plant new seeds of wisdom for the Green Industry! It’s been a minute since the powerful Martha Vegas immigration episode, and in this return, we dive deep into why every episode must bring real value to listeners—especially those new to the game. In this raw and motivational comeback episode, Willie shares what’s been happening behind the scenes—from family prioriti...
Apr 22, 2025•27 min•Season 1Ep. 72
Send us a text On this Episode of The Plant Movement Podcast , we welcome back Martha Vega from National Community Service to discuss one of the most pressing issues affecting the agricultural industry: immigration. A Look at Immigration Policies and Realities: Martha Vega, who previously appeared on Episode 35, provides her expert insights on the current immigration landscape. She explains that while Donald Trump's administration has made immigration policies more visible, they are not fundamen...
Mar 11, 2025•46 min•Season 1Ep. 71
Send us a text On this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast , host Willie Rodriguez sits down with Peter, the creative mind and owner of Jungle SoFlo, a young and dynamic landscape designer specializing in commercial and residential projects. From humble beginnings to designing stunning tropical landscapes, Peter’s journey is as inspiring as his creations. Peter’s Story Starting with a degree in hospitality management, Peter’s passion for plants was first sparked at Prospect Park’s botanical ga...
Jan 28, 2025•40 min•Season 1Ep. 70
Send us a text As 2024 comes to a close, your host Willie Rodriguez and producer Eddie Gonzalez look back on an incredible year for the Green Industry and The Plant Movement Podcast. In this reflective episode, we explore the top lessons learned and the habits we’re leaving behind in 2024. From no longer being disorganized with inventory to ensuring actions speak louder than words, Willie and Eddie dive into transformative practices for the new year. They discuss the importance of valuing your t...
Dec 31, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 69
Send us a text On this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, we welcome Dr. Alexandra Revynthi, Assistant Professor at the University of Florida’s Tropical Research and Education Center (TREC). Dr. Revynthi, a remarkable polyglot fluent in Greek, English, Spanish, Dutch, and German, shares her expertise in entomology and nematology, focusing on pests that impact ornamental plants. Key topics include: - Current pest challenges in the ornamental plant industry. Insights into her work at TREC, fro...
Dec 12, 2024•53 min•Season 1Ep. 68
Send us a text On this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast , we welcome back Rolly, owner of Defender Landscaping and return guest from Episode 6. Over the past four years, Rolly has transformed his business from a maintenance-focused operation into a thriving enterprise that grew three to four times in just two years. But with success came challenges, prompting a journey of personal and professional discovery. Rolly shares his battles with stress, anxiety, and the emptiness of chasing financi...
Nov 21, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 67
Send us a text On this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast , we sit down with Leigh Judy, Chief Operating Officer (COO) and VP of Sales & Marketing at Betrock Information Systems, Inc., to delve into the fascinating history and evolution of the PlantFinder magazine. Originally launched in 1975 by a visionary group of South Florida nurserymen, and later edited by Irv Betrock, this small trade publication grew alongside the booming nursery industry of the 1970s. Leigh shares insights on how ...
Nov 07, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 66
Send us a text On this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast , we’re joined by the dynamic co-founders Willie Rodriguez and Eddie Gonzalez to introduce their innovative venture: The Nursery Growers. It’s a company that’s turning heads by providing essential guidance and practical solutions for plant growers, and it’s arriving just when the industry needs it most. Willie and Eddie dive into the pressing challenges that many growers, especially newcomers, face. From a lack of information and guida...
Oct 08, 2024•36 min•Season 1Ep. 65
Send us a text On this special milestone episode of The Plant Movement Podcast , we sit down with someone we admire in the podcasting world—Paul Jamison, the influential host of the Green Industry Podcast , bestselling author, and mentor. Five-time best-selling author, Paul has become a leading voice in the lawn care community, sharing his hard-earned wisdom with others. In this episode, we delve into his rise from stumbling rookie to industry expert, touching on topics like: Business principles...
Sep 17, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 64
Send us a text On this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, we sit down with the innovative minds behind Showtime Landscaping, a company that has set the standard for creative and high-quality landscape design. Led by Martin Fox and his sons, Shane and Skyler, Showtime Landscaping is a family-owned business that embodies the idea of "elevating and thriving" in the Green Industry. Martin, the visionary founder, specializes in creating stunning escape designs, while Shane brings his expertise in...
Aug 20, 2024•1 hr 33 min•Season 1Ep. 63
Send us a text On this insightful Plant Nursery to Plant Nursery episode, Willie Rodriguez, owner of A's Ornamental Nursery, sits down with Alfredo Miranda, owner of AJM Nursery Inc., to delve into the evolution of the wholesale plant nursery market from pre-COVID times to the present day. Willie and Alfredo discuss the significant shifts in the target market and strategies, highlighting how the market now predominantly comprises developers, businesses, wealthy individuals, and their networks. T...
Aug 06, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 1Ep. 62
Send us a text On this inspiring episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, we sit down with Olga Rose Anthony aka Rosey, the dynamic force behind Plant Me Rosey. A passionate advocate for the green industry, Rosey wears many hats: she's a mother, wife, grandmother, and a successful businesswoman. Her mission is to inspire and connect, particularly with women, showing them that they can achieve their dreams and thrive in their endeavors. Rosey’s business focuses on biophilic design and sustainabilit...
Jul 23, 2024•57 min•Season 1Ep. 61
Send us a text In this milestone episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, we are thrilled to feature Eric Smith, the past president of the Florida Nursery, Growers, and Landscape Association (FNGLA) and the current national sales manager for BioSafe Systems. Eric has dedicated his entire career to the Green Industry, making significant contributions and driving innovation within this vital sector. BioSafe Systems, a leader in chemical manufacturing, specializes in agriculture, horticulture, surfac...
Jul 09, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 60
Send us a text Welcome to Episode 59 of The Plant Movement Podcast! In this special episode, we are thrilled to feature Kyle Vanduser, a remarkable entrepreneur and thought leader in both faith and business. Kyle is the owner of Cyprus Island Enterprises and the insightful author of "Blue Collar Catholicism: Defining Our Faith, Doing the Work, and Investing in Eternity." As a specialist in business consulting, personal consulting, and life coaching, Kyle brings a wealth of knowledge and experien...
Jun 25, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 59
Send us a text On this exciting episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, we sit down with Todd Bachman, the dynamic President and CEO of Florida Coast Equipment (FCE) and Big Orange Rentals (BOR). Todd's journey with FCE began in 2006, and under his visionary leadership, the company has grown from three dealerships to ten, making it the nation's largest Kubota dealership in just 15 years. Todd’s dedication to excellence has fostered a culture of superior customer service and unparalleled product s...
Jun 12, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 58
Send us a text Welcome to Episode 57 of The Plant Movement Podcast, where we explore the vibrant world of outdoor design and living. In this episode, we're thrilled to shine a spotlight on a trailblazing company that's redefining outdoor spaces with innovation and elegance: Palm Beach Outdoor Design Group. Established in 2014 by the dynamic father-and-son duo, Joe Mastracchio, Palm Beach Outdoor Design Group has evolved into a powerhouse in the realm of outdoor design and living in Florida. With...
May 21, 2024•1 hr 23 min•Season 1Ep. 57
Send us a text Welcome back to another episode of The Plant Movement Podcast! On this Episode your host, Willie Rodriguez, embark on a journey with John and Alexander from Rise Agricultural Design Group, where the intersection of nature and human creativity blossoms into visionary landscapes. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of landscape architecture with John and Alexander, who seamlessly blend their expertise in design, science, art, and community engagement. Together, they...
May 07, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 1Ep. 56
Send us a text On this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, Eddie and Willie sit down and delve into the details of Willie's latest investment venture for his wholesale nursery, A's Ornamental Nursery. Tune in as Willie shares insights into their bold move to acquire a sprawling 20-acre property for their wholesale nursery, a decision involving a staggering $3 million investment. Eddie wastes no time in asking the burning questions, starting with why they chose this particular location for exp...
Apr 26, 2024•31 min•Season 1Ep. 55
Send us a text On this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, your host Willie Rodriguez sits down with the dynamic duo behind Growth Pointe, LLC, Daniel and Joshua. At the tender age of 23, these two entrepreneurs have already made waves in the world of plant enthusiasts by shipping green goodness across the entirety of the United States. Their journey began in 2019 with a serendipitous encounter with a Calathea plant, where their last $30 turned into the seed for what would eventually bloom in...
Apr 09, 2024•47 min•Season 1Ep. 54
Send us a text Welcome back to The Plant Movement Podcast! On today's episode, we dive deep into the innovative world of online plant selling with our special guest, Rich Christakes, the creator of Ship My Plants. Ship My Plants isn't just a marketplace; it's a groundbreaking platform designed specifically for plant sellers to thrive in the digital age. Rich shares with us the journey of creating this revolutionary platform, providing a space for plant enthusiasts to connect and transact like ne...
Mar 26, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 53
Send us a text In this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, your host Willie Rodriguez welcomes back a familiar face, Paul Capote from Paul's General Landscaping. However, this time, Paul brings something new to the table – his own podcast venture, "We the Tradesmen". Join Willie and Paul as they delve into the world of blue-collar workers, discussing the significance of Paul's new podcast and its mission to empower those in the landscaping, construction, and related industries. As a returning...
Mar 05, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 1Ep. 52
Send us a text Welcome back to another episode of The Plant Movement Podcast! In this exciting episode, your host Willie Rodriguez is joined by co-founder Eddie Gonzalez as they delve into the crucial topic of Spring Preparation for wholesale plant nurseries, garden centers, and landscapers. As the seasons change and the warmer weather approaches, it's essential for businesses in the green industry to be well-prepared. Willie and Eddie explore the key benefits of spring preparation, highlighting...
Feb 20, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 51
Send us a text Join us on the latest episode of The Plant Movement podcast as your host, Willie Rodriguez, sits down with the inspiring Ashley Burnett, the visionary owner of Coastal Roots Greenery. Ashley takes us on a journey from her unique background in the Beneficial Insects department at Disney, through becoming a Police Officer in Virginia, to her current venture as the creator of a botanical oasis on wheels. Coastal Roots Greenery is not your typical plant shop – it's a mobile plant trai...
Jan 03, 2024•36 min•Season 1Ep. 50
Send us a text Join us on the latest episode of The Plant Movement podcast, where your hosts Willie Rodriguez and Co-host Eddie Gonzalez take a stroll down the garden path to reflect on the incredible year that was and share insights on how to prepare for a flourishing 2024 in the green industry. In this special episode, Willie and Eddie recap the highlights and key takeaways from the insightful conversations with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts that graced the podcast throughout th...
Dec 21, 2023•1 hr 9 min•Season 1Ep. 49
Send us a text Welcome to another insightful episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, where we delve deep into the roots of the green industry. In this episode, we have a special guest, Adrian Guerrero, the owner of Insprovider, a leading business insurance provider catering to the unique needs of the green industry. Adrian takes us on a journey through the essential insurance coverages for businesses in Florida, including General Liability, Commercial Auto, Commercial Property, Umbrella Policy, C...
Dec 09, 2023•1 hr 9 min•Season 1Ep. 48
