Trades Talk

Trades Talk is a captivating and dynamic program that is led by the charismatic duo of Justin White and Maggie Wymore. Their joint efforts delve into the triumphs of various trade industries, showcasing the successes of those who have made a significant impact. With their extensive network of industry connections, Justin and Maggie provide an unparalleled view into the world of visionary leaders. Prepare to be inspired and enlightened with the trade secrets, career advice, and business tips that are shared. Make sure to have a notepad on hand, as this show promises to be an unforgettable journey!

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Episodes

Tuesday Feb 13, 2024

In this enlightening episode of "Trades Talk," we're joined by DJ Seeger of Seeger Water, a Texas-based company at the forefront of irrigation and water management solutions. With a deep commitment to sustainability and an eye on the future of our planet's most precious resource, DJ shares the journey and mission of Seeger Water.
Under DJ's leadership, Seeger Water has become synonymous with innovation in tackling some of the most pressing water challenges. This episode delves into:
The inception and evolution of Seeger Water: Discover the roots of DJ's passion for water management and how it led to the founding of a company dedicated to making a difference.
Sustainability in action: Learn about the cutting-edge solutions Seeger Water implements to address water scarcity, efficiency, and conservation, setting new standards in the industry.
The challenges of water management: DJ sheds light on the hurdles faced by communities in Texas and beyond, offering his expert perspective on navigating these challenges for a sustainable future.
A vision for tomorrow: With an optimistic outlook, DJ discusses the importance of innovative practices and regulatory support in shaping the future of water management.
Listeners will leave with a newfound appreciation for the complexities of water management and the critical role that companies like Seeger Water play in conserving our water resources for generations to come.
Tune in to "Trades Talk" episode 20 for a deep dive into the world of water with DJ Seeger, and discover how we can all be part of a more sustainable and water-wise future.

Tuesday Feb 06, 2024

Welcome to a special episode of “Trades Talk,” where we delve into the heart of family-run businesses in the trades sector. In this inspiring installment, we’re joined by Niwar Nasim of Nasim Landscaping, based in Tacoma, Washington, who shares his remarkable journey from immigrating to the US as a refugee to spearheading the growth of his family’s landscaping business.
 
“Roots of Resilience: Scaling a Family Business with Niwar Nasim” is more than just a success story; it’s a deep dive into the complexities, challenges, and triumphs of taking a small family operation to new heights. Niwar opens up about:
The foundational values that have guided Nasim Landscaping through generations.
The innovative strategies and hard-earned lessons learned in expanding the business.
The unique challenges and rewards of running and growing a family-owned company in the landscaping industry.
Practical advice for entrepreneurs and family business owners looking to scale their operations while maintaining their core values.
 
Niwar’s narrative is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the enduring strength of family bonds in building a successful business. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur in the trades or dreaming of starting your own family business, this episode offers invaluable insights into making that dream a reality.
 
More About Nasim Landscaping:
Nasim Landscape is not just an award-winning landscaping and irrigation management company – we are a cherished family-owned and operated business, proudly serving the South Sound region since 1998. From our humble beginnings as a small, immigrant-owned venture, we have nurtured big dreams and transformed them into a source of inspiration.Our unwavering dedication, coupled with expert commercial and residential landscaping knowledge and unmatched customer service, has earned us a reputation as a trusted and dependable landscaping partner.As an enterprise-level provider of exceptional commercial and residential landscaping services, we combine our extensive experience with a personal touch. We understand the unique needs of our clients and tailor our solutions accordingly, ensuring that every aspect of your landscape is meticulously cared for.
 
Tune in to “Trades Talk” for an episode filled with inspiration, wisdom, and actionable tips from one of the most passionate and successful figures in the landscaping industry.
 
Niwar's LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/niwar/

Monday Jan 29, 2024

We’ve heard a lot of Maggie’s wisdom over the past episodes and a lot of that has to do with her experience at Aspire Software. Now, we’re taking that up a notch as Justin places his co-host and colleague on the hot seat to tell us more about this life-changing career journey. A lot of people could only dream of being associated with such a prominent name in the industry. How does one succeed in such a dynamic field? What makes organizations like Aspire so compelling for top talent like Maggie to stay, or even get attracted to it in the first place? What leadership and other lessons does Maggie have to impart to us from this singular experience? Find out the answers to these and more in this episode.

Wednesday Jan 24, 2024

Many people conflate business scaling with business growth, but those in the know understand that there is a subtle difference. Once you understand it, you're now holding the keys to unlocking business prosperity. In this insightful episode of "Trades Talk," host Maggie and Justin welcome Scott Lesak, the CEO of Kasel Rocks Landscape and Chief Visionary at InspireYou, a coaching and training brand. With a focus on the mindset of a CEO, Scott delves into his top three responsibilities, emphasizing the crucial role of coaching in leadership. The conversation takes a deep dive into Scott's unique approach to using snow as a core service for business scaling, showcasing his rapid growth on the east coast. Join in as Scott discusses his philosophy of scaling versus growth, inspiring listeners to reconsider their vision and reset their goals for success. Get ready for a wealth of knowledge on CEO management and team coaching in this thought-provoking episode

Monday Jan 08, 2024

It’s no secret that private equity is a competitive space, so what makes the successful companies successful? Today, we’re featuring a proven model exemplified by LMC Landscape Partners. CEO Trey Brock explains how they blend time-honored conventions of business acquisition with innovative solutions that keep businesses thriving after partnering with them. Trey describes how they are making sure owners don’t regret partnering with private equity and how they’re giving employees skin in the game to improve engagement and performance. Tune in and learn some powerful secrets that will take your business to the next level!

Tuesday Jan 02, 2024

If you've been in business for some time, you may have heard of EOS or the Entrepreneurial Operating System. It's one of those industry-agnostic buzzwords that many people talk about but very few ever understand to the fullest extent. In this episode, we get into the weeds with Greg Weitzman, an experienced EOS Implementer, as he shares valuable insights on unlocking business excellence. Greg sheds light on the significance of implementing EOS in your company and how it can transform the way you operate. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by leadership teams, the importance of maintaining a healthy meeting cadence, and strategies for effectively involving field teams in the process. Learn about the distinction between perception and perspective, and discover common sticking points that companies often face in their EOS journey. With a focus on leadership team definition and the art of letting go, Greg explores the nuances of integrating EOS into various business structures. If you're looking to elevate your business, understand the role of an EOS implementer, and gain insights into fostering a culture of excellence, you don't want to miss this conversation.

Wednesday Dec 27, 2023

Embark on a transformative journey in our latest episode as Steve Benavides of Crux Capital shares insights into viewing your business as an investment and making strategic decisions in the realm of private equity. Learn the art of discernment, why choosing the right partner is paramount, and discover specific benchmarks that serve as roadmaps for transformative growth. In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of EBITDA benchmarking and understand how it shapes the landscape for attracting different types of investors. Our guest takes you behind the scenes of their journey, offering a detailed account of how their company underwent a significant transformation—shifting from a construction-centric focus to a balanced 50/50 mix of construction and maintenance services. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your business journey, this episode is packed with actionable insights to elevate your understanding of private equity and its role in unlocking unprecedented growth. Tune in and gain the knowledge to propel your business into new heights!

Monday Dec 18, 2023

To achieve strategic growth, a business leader needs to build a dedicated team aligned with a shared vision. By prioritizing effective communication and fostering a positive work environment, Alec Ryan, the Market Vice President at LandCare, has successfully created a culture of collaboration and innovation within his teams. In this episode, he expounds on the significance of chasing management over money, encouraging listeners to focus on building meaningful relationships and impactful leadership. Learn how Alec navigates the challenges of the landscaping industry, leverages enhancements and irrigation sales, and ensures client retention through a client-centric approach. Join us as we explore the intricacies of strategic growth and glean practical insights for your own journey towards business success.

Monday Dec 11, 2023

 
In this dynamic episode of "Trades Talk," we sit down with Lee Buffington, the visionary leader at Thrive Outdoor. Discover how Lee is masterfully leveraging the branch model to propel Thrive Outdoor into new realms of success. This episode dives deep into the strategy and mindset behind Thrive Outdoor's rapid growth and expansion. Lee shares his invaluable insights on creating a people-first culture that not only supports but drives the company's expansion.
We explore how Lee's background and experiences have shaped his approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of a strong team ethos and a commitment to employee welfare. Lee details the challenges and triumphs of operating multiple branches, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the logistics, management, and coordination involved in such a growth strategy.
Further, we discuss the transformative power of rebranding in the context of business growth, understanding how a well-executed rebrand can rejuvenate a company's image and open new doors. Lee's journey is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and strategic thinking in the competitive world of trades and business.
Listeners will walk away with a wealth of knowledge on the branch model as a tool for business expansion, the nuances of cultivating a successful company culture, and the key elements of effective leadership and management in a rapidly growing business. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a business leader, or simply interested in the art of successful business management, this episode provides essential insights into scaling a business while maintaining a strong, employee-centered approach.
 
Find out more about Thrive on their website: 
https://www.thriveoutdoorinc.com/

Monday Dec 04, 2023


n this inspiring episode of “Trades Talk,” we delve into the remarkable journey of Lisa Choate, who has recently taken a bold step by buying out her partner at West Coast Mechanical Insulation (WCMI). A woman-owned business since 2007, WCMI stands at the forefront of innovation in the mechanical insulation industry. 
 
Lisa, with her rich background in high-tech sales, brings a unique perspective and set of skills to this traditionally male-dominated field. Join us as Lisa shares her experience transitioning from the high-tech world to leading a specialized trade business. 
 
She discusses the challenges and triumphs of navigating this significant change, her vision for the future of WCMI, and her commitment to maintaining the company’s status as a leading woman-owned enterprise in the trade industry.  
 
Throughout the conversation, Lisa offers insights into the importance of embracing change, the value of diverse leadership, and her strategies for business growth in a competitive market. This episode is not just a story about a business acquisition; it’s about breaking barriers, pioneering progress, and shaping a new future in the trades. 
 
Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a trades professional, or someone interested in the dynamics of business leadership, Lisa’s story is sure to inspire and enlighten.
 
Links to Lisa:
 
http://wcmi-inc.com/ 
 
LinkedIn: 
 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisachoate?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
 

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