The Pond Digger team is taking on the 75 HARD challenge. Eric motivates them by sharing his own experience with the challenge and inspiring them to join in. In this episode, each team member shares their motivation for taking on 75 Hard — some want to get in shape for future goals like firefighting academy, while others want to be healthier role models for their kids. They discuss the physical and mental benefits of doing the 75 Hard and how challenging it is. In this episode, they talk about: W...
Jan 19, 2024•2 hr 36 min
Today’s guest is Lora Lee Gelles, owner and editor of Pond Trade Magazine. Laura discusses the history of the magazine, how she took it over in 2013 without even having a pond herself at that time, some controversial articles Pond Trade Magazine has published over the years that caused controversy in the pond industry, and more. In this episode, they talk about: The history of Pond Trade magazine and it’s mission How Laura took Pond Trade magazine over without even having a pond Controversial ar...
Jan 14, 2024•1 hr 12 min
Are you struggling to generate leads and sales for your contracting business? Today’s guest, Adam McChesney, shares the best digital marketing strategies that can help boost your business. Adam is a serial entrepreneur, a digital marketing and personal branding expert, CEO at Builders of Authority and Hite Digital, and host of Entrebrewer podcast. In this episode, they talk about: Adam’s journey with digital marketing and personal branding Importance of social media for contractors for their loc...
Jan 12, 2024•57 min
There are secrets to winning koi grow out contests, and Koi expert Shawn McHenry of Mystic Koi is here to share some of these secrets. Eric and Shawn discuss koi grow out contests, how these contests work, and how to select, grow, and prepare fish to their best potential for competition. In this episode, they talk about: The history of koi grow out contest and what a koi grow out contest means Creating a level playing field for participants, regardless of their financial capacity How the judging...
Jan 09, 2024•1 hr 33 min
Today, Eric dives into the colorful world of cichlids with guest Brandon Blombquist. Brandon is the owner of West Coast Cichlid Supplies, a cichlid breeding and sales business in Southern California. Brandon shares how he turned his longtime hobby for cichlid into a thriving business. In this episode, they talk about: Story of how Eric and Brandon met Why Brandon decided to pursue cichlids as a business instead of just a hobby Brandon’s experience of buying his first cichlid breeder stock Orange...
Dec 01, 2023•1 hr 1 min
If you’re looking for something unique to add to your aquarium, how about adding an aquatic snake? Many aquatic snake species can thrive in aquariums with compatible fish species. Today’s guest is Myke Clarkson, a reptile expert who’s making efforts to make aquatic snakes become accessible display animals. Myke also works with Herpetological Conservation International to conserve reptiles. In this episode, we talk about: Mike’s background and how he became interested in reptiles and aquatic snak...
Nov 25, 2023•1 hr 17 min
After a four-year hiatus from YouTube, The Pond Digger is finally making a comeback. Eric sits down with the person who is helping him to return to YouTube – independent filmmaker Joe Betancourt. They discuss their creative plans together for YouTube, how their collaboration came to be and where it's headed. In this episode, we talk about: Why did Eric stop posting to YouTube four years ago What motivated Eric to return to YouTube How Eric and Joe connected Joe’s journey from UPS driver to self-...
Nov 17, 2023•1 hr 24 min
Today Eric takes us on a trip down memory lane with his longtime friend and colleague Kathy Jo. The two discuss the origin story of this episode’s title and share the value of actively working at creating meaningful memories with friends and family that will stand the test of time. In this episode, we talk about: Why did Kathy said “I hope you die before I do” to Eric years ago Impact of a memorial Eric attended for a former client that made him realize the importance of creating memories Eric's...
Nov 16, 2023•40 min
Today’s guest, Dustin Wunderlich, is a strong proponent of using dirt in aquariums to achieve explosive plant growth. In this episode, Dustin shares the origins of this unconventional approach of using nutrient-rich dirt in aquariums and why it works so well for getting lush plants. In this episode, we talk about: Dustin’s journey with aquatics and entrepreneurship The importance of lighting and the different wavelengths it provides for plant growth Using organic potting soil or dirt in aquarium...
Nov 03, 2023•1 hr 17 min
Stonework is not just a practical feature in ponds. It gives a decorative touch and makes the pond a more attractive part of your garden. Today's guest, Graham Waleryszak, is a stone artist known for his unique approach to stonework that blends function and creativity. He discusses how stonework can also serve as a visual work of art beyond being functional structures. In this episode, we talk about: Graham's journey of learning masonry and developing his unique artistic style The concept of rep...
Oct 27, 2023•1 hr 30 min
Contractors who defy their realities transform their business by expanding what they think they can achieve! Today's episode is a recording of a coaching call that Eric did to give you a glimpse of what it's like inside the Contractor Power Circle. Eric discusses the importance of defying your reality and how we can redefine the boundaries of what we believe is achievable. In this episode, we talk about: The need for contractors to constantly defy and redefine their belief systems An example of ...
Oct 26, 2023•23 min
Effective communication is the key to building a solid brand! Today’s guest on the show is branding expert Bill Harper. Bill discusses the importance of defining your brand and communicating it clearly to your clients to run a successful business. In this episode, we talk about: Bill’s journey of becoming a branding expert The importance of branding and communication in running a successful business Should contractors focus on building their personal brand or branding their company as a whole Ex...
Oct 20, 2023•55 min
Having a clean pond brings an extra touch of elegance to events like parties, weddings, or other special occasions. But you can get a little extra pop and just a little bit of extra polish to make it picture-perfect. Today, Eric shares pond polishing tips to make the water clarity of ponds pop like never before. He also does a Q&A session and answers questions about ponds and fishes asked by you. In this episode, we talk about: How to make your pond water so clear you can see all the way to ...
Oct 14, 2023•46 min
We're 20 years behind in the contracting industry, and the old way of doing things has been outdated. Today’s guest — Johnny Vescio, founder of Kolaabo Inc. — wants to create a modern vibe in the contracting world. He discusses the need for modernization in the contracting industry and what it means to be a modern contractor. In this episode, we talk about: The contracting industry's outdated practices and the need for modernization The idea of being a modern contractor Changing the mindset of c...
Oct 13, 2023•1 hr 16 min
In this episode, we dive into the world of pond inspections and maintenance, exploring why they are essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful pond. Join us as we discuss the importance of regular inspections, the role of pond inspections in preventing issues, and practical tips for pond owners to keep their aquatic ecosystems thriving. In this episode we discuss... The Value of Pond Inspections: We explore why regular pond inspections are vital for identifying and addressing potential is...
Oct 02, 2023•1 hr 12 min
Welcome to this episode where we explore the captivating world of bingeable content and the art of connecting with your ideal clients through your content. Get ready for some invaluable tips and tricks that will transform the way you approach content creation, making it truly binge-worthy. Plus, we have a special guest today, Jasmine Partida, a seasoned social media strategist, who is here to share game-changing insights that can have a significant impact on contractors and their content strateg...
Oct 01, 2023•1 hr 1 min
In this episode, Eric Triplett, breaks down his 10-point pond inspection and how important it is to his Pond Business. He discusses: the basics of pond inspections what inspectors look for on job sites gives tips for homeowners to know what to look for in their own ponds how many fish can be kept in a pond importance of maintenance routines You’ll get the inside look at how he runs his business and some actual case studies and examples of why this 10 step process is so important to his business ...
Sep 24, 2023•53 min
In this episode of the "Pond Digger" podcast, host Eric Triplett welcomes guest Nate Swink, a young and highly successful entrepreneur in the contracting world. Nate's journey started at the age of 16 when he founded Swink's Welding, specializing in structural and miscellaneous steel. Now, he's on track to reach eight figures in business and has his sights set on the nine-figure mark. Throughout their conversation, Eric and Nate explore various aspects of entrepreneurship, personal branding, and...
Sep 23, 2023•1 hr 16 min
The magical blend of gardens and water features can create an oasis of life in outdoor spaces! Jess Zander from You Can Do It Gardening, shares her expertise and passion for helping people transform their gardens. In this episode, we talk about: Jess’s passion for gardening and her transition from being a gardener to becoming a gardening coach Jess’ social media and gardening journey Impact of COVID-19 on increasing interest and engagement in gardening Jess’ strategy for creating a genuine conne...
Jul 29, 2023•1 hr 25 min
Eric engages in a conversation with Matt Thibeau from Savant Marketing Agency. Together, they delve into the difficulties encountered by contractors who have strong marketing strategies but struggle with an efficient sales process. Matt’s marketing agency employs paid media, such as Facebook ads, to streamline and organize marketing and sales procedures specifically designed for contractors. In this episode, we talk about: Matt’s journey from marketing consultant to contractor marketing niche Im...
Jul 28, 2023•58 min
Want a pond that exudes clarity and beauty? Look no further than the marvels of undergravel filtration. Today’s guest is Mike White, widely known as The Pond Wizard, who is acclaimed for his groundbreaking contributions to undergravel suction grid installation techniques. Mike discusses the success and popularity of undergravel filtration, its impact on the pond-building community, and its adoption in various locations, even internationally. In this episode, we talk about: Mike’s pond building j...
Jul 22, 2023•1 hr 43 min
In this episode, Eric discusses his pet peeve of people saying "my bad" without authenticity or self-awareness. He explains how this phrase can leave others feeling disrespected and doubtful. Eric recommends showing genuine remorse and self-awareness when making mistakes to make others feel cared for rather than disrespected. In this episode, we talk about: Lack of authenticity and self-awareness in saying "my bad." Impact of insincere apologies on others Example of a contractor's reaction to br...
Jul 21, 2023•11 min
Having uncomfortable conversations with customers is an important skill for contractors to master! Eric is joined by Thomas Williams from All American Renovations, a remodeling and home improvement company. The two discuss the power of having uncomfortable yet necessary conversations with customers. In this episode, we talk about: Difficult conversations are necessary to set proper expectations, avoid miscommunication and provide the best solutions How Thomas transformed his business by learning...
Jul 15, 2023•1 hr 48 min
Today, Eric delves into the world of high-end freshwater aquarium installations with guest Mark Chen—a renowned aquarist from TMK Aquarist. The two explore the intricacies of creating awe-inspiring aquarium setups that go beyond the ordinary. Topics covered include aquascaping, plant selection, fish species, and more. In this episode, we talk about: Mark's passion for freshwater conservation and his approach to "conservation by appreciation" through his aquascaping work. Mark's journey of starti...
Jun 25, 2023•1 hr 43 min
Today’s guest, Duncan Farrow from Farrow Built, highlights the significance of peer groups in the construction industry. He shares how these groups cultivate a culture of growth, encouraging individuals to aim high, expand their horizons, and thrive through teamwork, support, and shared experiences. In this episode, we talk about… Details about Duncan’s business, including its duration and current status The pivotal moment that led Duncan to join Eric’s peer group The domino effects that occur w...
Jun 10, 2023•1 hr 30 min
Today Eric dives into the world of fish care with Dr. Jesse Sanders, a veterinarian specializing in taking care of aquatic animals. Dr. Sanders is really passionate about fish, and she talks about the different things we need to consider when it comes to taking care of them. Dr. Sanders also gives some helpful tips on properly caring for fish and talks about the challenges that pond owners face. In this episode, we talk about… Fish veterinarians and how their presence in the industry has evolved...
Jun 01, 2023•1 hr 31 min
Mark Wilson, The Pond Advisor, is back in the show. Over the years, Mark has established The Pond College, which offers individuals the opportunity to exercise their creative freedom without being overly concerned about product costs. Mark strongly believes that providing a space for people to practice and gain confidence is important in building a creative community. Today, he joins Eric to share his insights on how to effectively use aquatic plants in landscaping. In this episode, we talk abou...
May 06, 2023•1 hr 21 min
Join Eric as he explores the interesting connection between fishing and contracting. He discusses the metaphorical meaning of “Fishing in a Barrel” and how to use this metaphor to create a successful business strategy. Tune in and find out how to find the right clients for your contracting business and develop a long-term success strategy. In this episode, we talk about… Constantly striving for personal excellence in the contracting industry The challenge of estimating the cost of a project for ...
May 04, 2023•23 min
Ponds are often the first things people think of when it comes to water features, and they are the centrepiece of a backyard creating an oasis of serenity and beauty! Pond architects and designers Tyson Matyas and Douglas Strikwerda offer their expertise in ponds and water features and share valuable insights on everything related to water features, backyard ponds, and landscaping. In this episode, we talk about… Starting with water features to enhance your backyard landscape Landscaping tips fo...
Apr 29, 2023•1 hr 33 min
Today’s guest is Meridith Grundei, a public speaking & presentation coach. Meridith talks about the benefits of public speaking, such as improving communication skills and becoming an expert in your field and shares tips for contractors to overcome their fear of public speaking and effectively convey their message to potential clients. In this episode, we talk about… Importance of effective communication, including public speaking in any business Meridith’s background and how she developed h...
Apr 28, 2023•1 hr 14 min
