The Cost of Doing Business

Today I'm with Jason Gwaltney of Gwaltney Landscaping in North Carolina. We had a fantastic discussion on his business journey, and how he decided to leave his job and strike out on his own. .... And all the challenges that come with that. Second guessing yourself on pricing, hustling to pay the bills, getting dependable help, on and on.

Give Jason a follow on Instagram! He's building some awesome water features!

Instagram (@gwaltneylandscaping_llc)

Home | Gwaltney Landscaping

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

This week on the podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Justin Laughter, the owner of Laughter Family Hardscapes in Asheville, North Carolina. Justin’s built a thriving hardscape design and construction business by staying laser-focused on delivering real value to his clients, rather than just building what they want.

Justin shares his design-first approach ensuring his clients get outdoor living spaces that truly meet their needs and lifestyle, not just the latest trends.

Justin's journey has been marked by challenges and successes, but his commitment to his craft, his employees, and his clients has been the driving force behind Laughter Family Hardscapes' continued growth.

Tune in to hear Justin's insights on building a values-driven business, hiring and retaining top talent, and creating exceptional experiences for every client.

https://www.instagram.com/laughterfamilyhardscapes1/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Bio: Christopher Castano started his landscaping business when he was 15, trimming bushes and spreading mulch on his lunch breaks. Fast forward, and he’s now running a thriving design-build company crafting high-end outdoor spaces with his team in North Carolina. In this episode, we dive into how Christopher went from figuring it out on the fly to tackling half-million-dollar projects, training a solid crew, and creating a business that’s all about quality, trust, and timeless designs. Christopher shares insights into hiring, pricing, and maintaining trust with clients while constantly leveling up – one project at a time. 💪

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

On this special episode of The Cost of Doing Business, I sit down with longtime friend and mentor Greg Wittstock, CEO and Founder of Aquascape. We dive deep into the real, messy journey of transforming a hobby into a thriving business, creating a company culture that lasts, and empowering a team strong enough to run the show without you.

"If you're working IN the business, you have a job. If you're working ON the business, you have a company."

Greg’s straightforward advice years ago was the catalyst that inspired me to start my own company, SynkedUP. Today, we revisit those life changing moments, discussing how setbacks can become stepping stones toward bigger successes, and why letting go is key to growth and entrepreneurial freedom.

This conversation is real, raw, and packed with lessons every entrepreneur needs to hear.

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/

Follow us on Instagram: @SynkedUP

In this episode, I sit down with Alex Fransen, the owner of Derby City Pools & Outdoor Living in Louisville, Kentucky. As a contractor in the pool and landscaping industry for the past 28 years, Alex has some serious stories to share about the challenges of scaling his business. Alex opens up about the tough transition his company went through—shifting from a maintenance-focused operation to one centered on construction. He calls it a "monster" that his smaller maintenance side just couldn't keep up with. And finding and keeping good talent to grow those construction teams? A total headache.

But the real eye-opener for Alex was getting his financial house in order. Like many contractors, he was grinding away, working hard, but had no real insight into whether he was actually making money. Once he started using the right software, organizing his books, and tapping into a supportive peer group, everything changed.

Alex shares how getting a handle on his numbers not only gave him peace of mind but also the confidence to scale strategically—without sacrificing quality or his relationships with customers. No more just "working harder"—he's now working smarter.

This conversation is packed with valuable insights for any contractor who feels stuck trying to break through the ceiling of their business. Alex’s story highlights the power of using data to drive decisions and the importance of not just working your butt off but building the right systems and processes to grow sustainably.

https://www.instagram.com/derbycitypools/

If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out:

SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/