Podcast
Side Hustle Squad
Hosted by Mike Garvey · EN
Welcome to the Side Hustle Squad Podcast with your host, Mike Garvey! My goal is to provide entrepreneurs with all the tools and resources they need to start and succeed in the lawn care industry on the side while working a full-time career. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, or thinking about taking the leap into starting a business, this podcast will help you build and grow. Guests from the green industry and beyond will be on the show to share their experiences and advice. I provide in-depth interviews with successful entrepreneurs, offering insight into what it takes to succeed in running a business.
I will also discuss the various aspects of the lawn care industry, from equipment and industry trends to stories and experiences from my own lawn care business successes and failures. You will leave each episode feeling informed, empowered, and ready to hustle. No matter what stage of the journey you're in, the Side Hustle Squad is here to help you succeed. Tune in every week for the latest interviews, tips, tricks, and advice for growing your business.
55episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Ep 336. Spring Rush Catch-Up with Larry Delli Santi | ROPED, Coastal Fertilization & Amazing Creations Update!
Today00:40:29Summary readyLarry Delli Santi is back on the mic! While out at the RELHKO Guinness World Record event in Louisville, Mike and Larry finally got a chance to sit down and catch up during the middle of the spring rush. In this episode of The Side Hustle Squad Podcast, the guys talk all things ROPED, Coastal Fertilization & Weed Control, and Amazing Creations Landscaping — from robotic mowing and battery-powered equipment to landscaping operations, lawn care growth, and managing the chaos of spring season. They also dive into: How the spring rush has been going Lessons learned over the years in business The current state of landscaping and lawn care Growing multiple companies at once The future vision for ROPED and robotics Balancing partnerships, family, and entrepreneurship during busy season Just two business partners and co-hosts having a real conversation in the middle of the grind. If you're in lawn care, landscaping, or entrepreneurship, this episode will definitely hit home.
SummaryEp 335. Surviving the Spring Rush w/ Naylor Taliaferro + Profit Accelerator Live!
2d ago00:57:32Summary readySpring rush is here, and for contractors, that means long days, packed schedules, stress, and growth opportunities all happening at once. In this episode, Mike sits down with Naylor Taliaferro to talk about how he's learned to handle the chaos of spring over the years. They dive into early mistakes, burnout, scheduling problems, hiring struggles, and the systems that helped Naylor evolve from overwhelmed operator to intentional business owner. The conversation also shifts into the importance of networking, live events, and Naylor's upcoming Profit Accelerator event in Richmond, Virginia — designed to help contractors grow faster and smarter by getting around the right people. 🔗 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
SummaryEp 334. Spring Rush: How We're Getting More Customers Right Now!
1w ago00:15:19Summary readySpring 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
SummaryEp 333. Robotic Mowing Is Here… So Why Are People Still Fighting It? First Kress Install & Demo Breakdown!
1w ago00:17:19Summary readyIn 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
SummaryEp 332. Why Contractors Need to Get Serious About LinkedIn!
2w ago00:09:09Summary readyFor 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
SummaryEp 331. Why You Need to Be in the Room: Live Events That Can Change Your Business!
2w ago00:13:23Summary readyIn 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
SummaryEp 330. When Everything Breaks: How to Stay Productive in the Field Without Going Back to the Shop!
3w ago00:13:44Summary readyWhat 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
SummaryEp 329. Your Branded Truck is Your Billboard!
3w ago00:11:24Summary readyIn 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
SummaryEp 328. Starting Over—But Smarter | Lessons From Launching Coastal North Jersey!
4w ago00:17:44Summary readyWhat 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
SummaryEp 327. The Future of Lawn Care? Inside Our First Robotic Mower Installs!
Apr 2100:12:57Summary readyRobotic 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
Summary