Bug Bux Podcast

Allan Draper
  • 4.9 (123)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

The Bug Bux Podcast is your go-to resource for launching, growing, and scaling a successful pest control company. Hosted by Allan Draper, entrepreneur, investor, and founder of multiple high-growth service businesses, the podcast delivers real-world insights and proven strategies for pest control owners ready to level up. Allan brings a unique perspective as someone who has built and led pest control companies from the ground up, scaling from zero to multi-million dollar operations. With a passion for entrepreneurship and a deep love for the pest control industry, he shares not just tactics, but mindset shifts and leadership principles to help owners win in business and life. Each episode features expert guests, in-depth conversations, and powerful solo sessions where Allan breaks down everything from pricing strategies and P&L breakdowns to team building, vendor relationships, and personal development. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to break into the PCT Top 100, the Bug Bux Podcast will help you become a bug money millionaire.

  1. 6D AGO

    The Real Reason Your Employees Quit (And How to Build a Team That Stays) | EP 236

    If you’re struggling with employee retention… this episode is for you. Allan Draper sits down with Maria Sorrentino, CEO of Pest Pros, to break down what actually keeps great people around and it’s not just pay, processes, or performance metrics. From building a true “family-style” business to turning entry-level employees into six-figure earners, Maria shares how focusing on people first creates better teams, stronger culture, and ultimately better business results. They dive into: Why most companies focus too much on performance and miss what really mattersThe balance between structure (SOPs, KPIs) and culture (connection, energy, purpose)How to identify what your employees actually want (hint: it’s not always promotions)Practical ways to improve retention, engagement, and leadership inside your companyWhy “fun gets it done” might be the missing piece in your business 🚀 Join Bug Bux + (community, trainings, and exclusive access):  https://www.skool.com/bugbux/about

    34 min

  2. APR 23

    The Most Overlooked Growth Lever in Pest Control | EP 235

    Most pest control owners are chasing growth in the wrong place. In this episode, Allan Draper sits down with Reagan Nickl (VP of Customer Success at Ask Nicely) to break down one of the most overlooked, but highest-impact, growth levers in your business: customer experience and retention. If you’re focused on leads, sales, and marketing… but not obsessing over your current customers, you could be leaving massive revenue on the table. Reagan walks through a practical, step-by-step framework for turning customer feedback into: Higher retentionMore referralsBetter reviewsMore consistent, predictable revenueThey also dive into how to actually implement this (even if you’re busy), including: The 5-step feedback-to-growth systemThe biggest customer experience killers in pest controlWhy most companies lose customers (and don’t even realize it)How to use AI to automate follow-ups and recover unhappy customersSimple ways to turn your customers into raving fansIf you feel like you're working hard to grow, but not seeing the compounding results you want, this episode will show you exactly where to look. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 👉 Listen to the previous episode referenced in this conversation: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1863674/episodes/18295530 👉 Join Bug Bux + (exclusive trainings, community, and resources): https://www.skool.com/bugbux/about

    36 min

  3. APR 16

    Why Human Experience Will Beat AI (And Win in Pest Control) | EP 234

    In this unscripted episode, Allan Draper and Mat Rogers dive into what actually separates businesses in today’s AI-driven world and it’s not what you think. They unpack a powerful idea: AI can only remix what already exists… but it can’t replicate real, lived experience. And in a world flooded with generic content, that gap is becoming the biggest opportunity in business. From behind-the-scenes insights on Bug Bux Con to the rise of community-driven growth in the pest control industry, this conversation covers: • Why relationships and in-person connection are becoming more valuable (not less) • How sharing real wins and failures gives you a true competitive edge • The danger of relying too heavily on AI-generated content and “shortcut” strategies • Why the businesses that win in 2026 and beyond will be built on authenticity, not automation They also get real about competition, legacy, and what it actually means to build something that lasts. If you're trying to scale your business, stand out in a crowded market, or figure out where AI actually fits—this episode will challenge how you think about growth.

    31 min

  4. APR 9

    The Science Behind Wasp Control (And Why It Matters) | EP 233

    In this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Allan Draper sits down with Chris Wrex, owner of Wrex Wildlife & Pest Control, to talk about building a business from the ground up and mastering one of the toughest niches in the industry: wasps. Chris shares his journey from being a school teacher to becoming a trusted pest control expert, along with the mindset shifts that helped him grow past plateaus. They dive deep into the power of community, how to actually use the Bug Bux group to your advantage, and why going from an “island” to a “continent” can change your business. You’ll also get a masterclass on wasp control, including: • How to properly identify different species • Why most technicians treat nests incorrectly • The biggest mistakes (and costly callbacks) to avoid • Practical techniques to handle nests more effectively and safely Whether you’re a new operator or a seasoned owner, this episode is packed with real-world insights you can apply immediately to grow your pest control business.

    40 min

  5. APR 2

    The Unsexy Services That Make the Most Money (Pigeons, Weeds & More) | EP 232

    In this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Allan Draper sits down with Matt Deroest, owner of Ultimate Pest, to break down how he went from a side hustle to a fast-growing pest control business in the Phoenix market. Matt shares how he carved out a unique lane by focusing on services most companies ignore, like pigeons, weeds, and specialty jobs and how that strategy led to massive growth and low customer acquisition costs. They also dive into: Turning one-time jobs into long-term customersRunning high-performing Meta ads (that actually convert)Building a business while balancing family lifeLetting go of control and stepping into the owner roleIf you’re looking to grow your pest control business, stand out in a crowded market, and work smarter, not just harder, this episode is packed with real, actionable insights.

    34 min

  6. MAR 26

    You’re Not Stuck; You’re Just Around the Wrong People | EP 231

    You’ve heard it before but you’re probably not doing anything about it. In this episode, Allan breaks down one of the most important (and overlooked) drivers of success: who you spend time with. Backed by real studies and real-world examples, this isn’t just motivation, it’s a wake-up call. If you want to make more money, build a better business, improve your relationships, and actually enjoy life more… it starts with your circle. Also in this episode: • What to expect at Bug Bux Con • Why networking isn’t optional anymore • How the right room can change everything

    29 min

  7. MAR 19

    Grow Fast Without Ads: The Customer-First Playbook for Pest Control Success | EP 230

    In this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Allan Draper sits down with pest control owner Matt Thompson to break down how he’s built a thriving, fast-growing business, without spending money on advertising. From starting his company while working full-time to now averaging $70K–$80K in growth each year, Matt shares the real strategies behind his success: relentless customer care, organic growth, and mastering the small moments that most companies overlook. They dive into: • How to grow without a marketing budget • The real driver behind low attrition (hint: it’s not pricing) • Simple ways to create a “white glove” customer experience • Training technicians to deliver consistent, high-level service • The balance between efficiency and relationship-building • Why retention will always beat acquisition If you’re a pest control owner looking to grow sustainably, build loyal customers, and stand out in a crowded market—this episode is packed with practical, no-BS insights you can start using today.

    37 min

  8. MAR 12

    Beyond the Sting: Why Community Beats Competition in Pest Control | EP 229

    In the pest control industry, it’s easy to fall into the "zero-sum" trap; the idea that for one business to win, another must lose. But what if the opposite were true? What if helping your "competitors" actually helped you grow faster? In this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Allan is joined by Travis Bottoms and Tyler Sublette, founders of Nice Pest Company, who have scaled to 1,600 accounts in just 18 months. We dive deep into why there’s plenty of room for everyone at the table and how a spirit of abundance, rather than scarcity, is the ultimate business hack. We also discuss the upcoming Real Pest World House in Dallas, Texas. This isn't just another networking event; it’s an immersive, mastermind experience designed to: Foster Radical Transparency: Share the wins, losses, and "secret sauce" with fellow owners.Build Lifelong Alliances: Turn competitors into collaborators and friends.Scale Smarter: Learn from those who have already cleared the hurdles you're facing.As the Real Pest World motto says, "You can't compete with us because we want you to win." Whether you're a solo operator or managing a fleet, this episode will challenge you to look at the business across the street as an ally, not an enemy. Join the Movement Ready to step into an environment where your growth is everyone’s priority? The Real Pest World House is looking for hungry, open-minded owners who are ready to level up. Don't wait—spots are limited to ensure an intimate, high-impact environment. Head over to therealpestworld.com today to fill out your application and secure your seat at the table. It’s time to stop competing and start winning—together.

    29 min
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4.9
out of 5
123 Ratings

About

The Bug Bux Podcast is your go-to resource for launching, growing, and scaling a successful pest control company. Hosted by Allan Draper, entrepreneur, investor, and founder of multiple high-growth service businesses, the podcast delivers real-world insights and proven strategies for pest control owners ready to level up. Allan brings a unique perspective as someone who has built and led pest control companies from the ground up, scaling from zero to multi-million dollar operations. With a passion for entrepreneurship and a deep love for the pest control industry, he shares not just tactics, but mindset shifts and leadership principles to help owners win in business and life. Each episode features expert guests, in-depth conversations, and powerful solo sessions where Allan breaks down everything from pricing strategies and P&L breakdowns to team building, vendor relationships, and personal development. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to break into the PCT Top 100, the Bug Bux Podcast will help you become a bug money millionaire.

Information

  • Creator
    Allan Draper
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    237
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bug Bux Podcast
  • Show Website
    Bug Bux Podcast

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