Spring is here, and this is the season where businesses either gain momentum or get left behind. In this episode of The Side Hustle Squad Podcast, Mike talks about real-world strategies for getting more customers during the spring rush. From branding and wrapped trucks to Google reviews, upselling existing customers, face-to-face networking, and creating momentum in your local market, this episode is packed with practical ideas contractors can start using immediately. Mike also breaks down why the fastest-growing companies don't sit around waiting for leads — they actively hunt for opportunities every single day. Topics include: Getting more lawn care & fertilization customers Why branding matters Using Google reviews to grow Upselling your current client base Commercial property networking Spring marketing strategies Building momentum during peak season 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More Free Contractor Sales Training with Eric Triplett Learn More

In this episode, Mike breaks down ROPED's very first real-world robotic mowing demo and installation — and the reactions were exactly what you'd expect. The customer was excited. The team saw the vision. But one person wasn't buying in at all… the gas mechanic. Why are so many people resistant to battery-powered equipment and robotic mowing? Is it fear of change? Fear of losing relevance? Or are contractors simply not adapting fast enough to where the industry is headed? Mike dives deep into: Why robotic mowing and battery equipment are disrupting the industry The mindset shift contractors NEED to make Why some mechanics and operators push back against new technology ROPED's first Kress install using the KR174 How surprisingly simple the setup and mapping process was What customers are really looking for in 2026 Why robotics aren't replacing landscapers — they're changing the role of landscapers This episode is a raw, honest look at the future of the green industry and what happens when innovation collides with tradition. If you're curious about robotic mowing, battery-powered equipment, or where the landscaping industry is heading next, this one's for you. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More Free Contractor Sales Training with Eric Triplett Learn More

For years, most blue-collar businesses focused heavily on Facebook and Instagram, but LinkedIn has quietly become one of the best platforms for networking, partnerships, sponsorship opportunities, recruiting, and building a professional brand. Mike shares his thoughts on: Why contractors stand out on LinkedIn The opportunities that can come from simply posting consistently Building relationships with manufacturers, brands, and business owners Using LinkedIn to document your journey and growth Why authentic business content performs better than overthinking every post From growing Coastal Fertilization and building ROPED to attending live events and networking with industry leaders, Mike explains how LinkedIn is becoming a major tool for business growth in 2026. If you're trying to grow your company, expand your network, and create more opportunities, this is an episode you don't want to miss. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More Free Contractor Sales Training with Eric Triplett Learn More

In this episode, Mike breaks down why attending live events is one of the most powerful ways to grow your business. With upcoming stops at a RELHKO event attempting a Guinness World Records challenge—cutting an entire football field—and the Lawn and Landscape Technology Conference, he shares why getting around like-minded entrepreneurs is a game changer. From networking and partnerships to staying ahead of industry trends, Mike explains how some of the biggest opportunities don't happen online—they happen in person. If you're serious about leveling up, it starts by putting yourself in the right rooms! 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More Free Contractor Sales Training with Eric Triplett Learn More

What happens when your equipment breaks down… and you're nowhere near the shop? In this solo episode, I'm breaking down the real strategies that keep you moving when things go wrong in the field. From running out of product to equipment failures mid-route, this is the stuff every operator deals with—but not everyone is prepared for. I dive into how to build backup systems, load your trucks the right way, plan your routes smarter, and create a "mobile shop" so you're not wasting time going back and forth. We're also talking about leveraging your network, having contingency plans in place, and why the best in this game don't react to problems—they plan for them. Because the truth is… it's not about avoiding breakdowns. It's about how fast you recover. If you want to protect your time, your revenue, and your sanity during the busy season—this episode is for you. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More Free Contractor Sales Training with Eric Triplett Learn More

In this episode, I break down a real moment from the field where someone noticed our wrapped truck, scanned our QR code, and turned into a live conversation—and potential customer. We're diving into why branding isn't just about logos and colors… it's about visibility, trust, and creating opportunities when you're not even trying to sell. If you're running an unmarked truck or treating branding like an afterthought, this episode might cost you some uncomfortable realizations. We'll cover: Why your vehicle is your most underrated marketing tool How strong branding builds instant trust The ROI of wraps vs. cheap marketing Simple ways to turn everyday stops into lead generators If you want more leads without spending more on ads… start with what you're already driving. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More Free Contractor Sales Training with Eric Triplett Learn More

What does it really look like to start over… when you already know what you're doing? I share a real-time update on launching Coastal Fertilization of North Jersey and the lessons we're learning building a branch from the ground up—again. The difference this time? Experience, systems, and a blueprint already in place. From getting those first customers and dialing in pricing to seeing what's still challenging (even when you've done it before), this episode is all about starting smarter—not harder. If you've ever thought about expanding, launching a second location, or rebuilding with the knowledge you have now, this one hits different. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More Free Contractor Sales Training with Eric Triplett Learn More

Robotic mowing is here—but what does it actually look like in the real world? In this episode, I take you inside our first installs with Kress robotic mowers and what we're learning on the ground. From setup challenges and time investment to customer reactions and business opportunities, we're breaking it all down. This isn't about hype—it's about what's real right now, and where this industry is heading next. If you want to stay ahead of the curve in lawn care, this is an episode you don't want to miss. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More Free Contractor Sales Training with Eric Triplett Learn More

Taxes are due,  so let's talk about it.In this episode of The Side Hustle Squad Podcast, we're diving into something every business owner needs to hear—getting your financial house in order. Whether you're buttoned up or scrambling at the last minute, this episode is your gut check. We cover: Why staying organized financially is non-negotiable What to do if you're NOT ready for tax season (hint: file that extension) Making sure your sales tax is paid and accounted for How to evaluate where your business stands financially right now Simple systems to keep you from falling behind again And of course—if you're still mixing money, guessing where your cash is going, or operating without structure… it's time to fix that. That's where Relay comes in. Having separate accounts, clear buckets, and total visibility is a game changer. This isn't just about taxes. It's about running a real business. Get organized. Get clear. Get ahead. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More Free Contractor Sales Training with Eric Triplett Learn More

We're officially expanding into North Jersey with a new branch of Coastal Fertilization—and it's been an eye-opening process. From a slower start in a new market to seeing competitor pricing that honestly doesn't make sense, this episode is a real-time look at what's actually happening behind the scenes. But the biggest takeaway? We raised our prices by 7% this year. And yes—we lost customers. Almost exactly the percentage we raised. But now? We're replacing them with better customers at better prices. In this episode, I break down: Why raising your prices is necessary to grow What cheap pricing is really costing you How pricing reflects your brand and service Why you need to raise the bar if you raise your prices If you've been hesitant to raise your prices… this is your sign. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More Free Contractor Sales Training with Eric Triplett Learn More