114 episodes

Welcome to the internet's best produced podcast for contractors and business owners, hosted by Lewis Vandervalk of Blue Crocus Solutions. Our #1 goal is to connect with and learn from business owners and hear about their stories, where they have come from, where they are going, and the wins and lessons along the way.

If you want to be featured in our podcast, send an email to Lewis@bluecrocus.ca and we can see if you are a good fit. We are especially interested in chatting with contractors who own their own businesses, so if you fit that description, get in touch

The Blue Crocus Experience Lewis Vandervalk

    • Business

Welcome to the internet's best produced podcast for contractors and business owners, hosted by Lewis Vandervalk of Blue Crocus Solutions. Our #1 goal is to connect with and learn from business owners and hear about their stories, where they have come from, where they are going, and the wins and lessons along the way.

If you want to be featured in our podcast, send an email to Lewis@bluecrocus.ca and we can see if you are a good fit. We are especially interested in chatting with contractors who own their own businesses, so if you fit that description, get in touch

    114- TBCE- Toby Stubbs: Got Junk Removal Insurance Questions? Toby Stubbs has answers

    114- TBCE- Toby Stubbs: Got Junk Removal Insurance Questions? Toby Stubbs has answers

    Toby Stubbs is an insurance expert with a rich background in the industry. He began his career in the Chicagoland market area, eventually launching his own agency in 2013. Toby specializes in providing insurance for construction contracting risks and discovered a niche in junk removal insurance

    His website: https://junkremovalinsurance.com/

    *Summary:*
    In this insightful episode of the Blue Crocus Experience, we delve deep into the realm of insurance, specifically tailored towards entrepreneurs in the junk removal industry. Our guest, Toby Stubbs, unleashes a wealth of information on intricate insurance details that could potentially save business owners substantial amounts of money. The conversation is less about the ancillary tales and more focused on the ‘nitty-gritty’ of insurance intricacies that matter to junk removal business owners.

    *Key Takeaways:*
    -Proper classification of business and vehicles is crucial for accurate insurance coverage and fair rates.
    -Insurance costs can vary significantly based on state, driving records, age of drivers, and even the credit score of the business owner.
    -For startups, correctly setting up DOT paperwork can affect insurance options and costs.
    -Toby’s agency offers a breadth of options and is known for significant cost savings through specialized reclassification strategies.
    -General liability insurance is nuanced, and businesses should ensure they have coverage that accounts for the scope of their operations, especially when dealing with demolition.

    *Quotes: *
    “The way we classify everyone is as debris removal. So, this is the classification specifically with progressive.”
    “As you build value and grow and scale, you want that business protected.”
    “Law of large numbers to protect yourself. So, it’s really up to you individually as to what you’re comfortable with and what makes sense for your particular situation.”
    “One of the biggest value adds … is understanding how these [insurance policies] work.”

    *Announcements:*
    HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW BLUE COLLAR KIDS BOOK? https://www.bluecollarabc.com/
    Get a Free Audit of your Google Ads, SEO, Website, or Google Business Listing: https://bluecrocus.ca/website-seo-audit

    *About the Show:*
    Welcome to our podcast for contractors and business owners, hosted by Lewis Vandervalk of Blue Crocus Solutions. Our #1 goal is to connect with and learn from business owners, thought leaders, and coaches. We talk about their stories, where they have come from, where they are going, and their wins and lessons.

    If you want to be a guest on the podcast, email Lewis@bluecrocus.ca, and we can arrange a time if you are a good fit! We are especially interested in chatting with contractors and business owners who have fought through adversity and have the scars, experience, and insights to share from those times.

    Find Blue Crocus Solutions on the Web (With some resources):
    Get a FREE email script for reaching out to Realtors or Property Managers for Junk Removal: https://realtorscript.bluecrocus.ca/r...
    Connect with Blue Crocus Solutions on the web: https://www.bluecrocus.ca/
    Check us out and see our reviews: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=14274...
    Join our Facebook Group for Junk Removal Marketing Success Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/148165343156578/
    Check out our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/bluecrocussolutions

    *Find our Podcast Here:*
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Wu30Zf...
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ro/podcast...
    Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR...
    Youtube: • The Blue Crocus Experience PODCAST

    #podcast , #contractors, #leads, #seo, #leadgeneration, #fredericton, #bluecrocussolutions, #business, #businessowners, #tips, #concrete, #treeservice, #fitness, #paving, #sealcoating, #remodeling, #pressurewashing, #asphalt, #treeservice, #concrete, #website, #webdesign, #customers, #homeadvisor, #Googleads, #junkremoval, #junkremovalwebsites

    • 1 hr 8 min
    113-TBCE- Andrew Thompson: Journey on Junk Removal Business and Creating Innovative Software

    113-TBCE- Andrew Thompson: Journey on Junk Removal Business and Creating Innovative Software

    Andrew Thompson is known for his remarkable journey from software engineer to junk removal business entrepreneur and is now paving his way in the field of tech startups. With his roots in software engineering since he was ten, Andrew has a history of innovation and problem-solving. He transitioned into entrepreneurship with his venture into the junk removal industry, where he achieved substantial success.


    His website: https://www.junklaunchbyjedi.com/



    Summary:
    In this episode of the Blue Crocus experience, hosts Andrew Thompson and Lewis delve into the intricacies of starting, running, and scaling a junk removal business, and the powerful journey towards creating innovative software. The episode teases the upcoming excitement of the software launch event, intertwining promises of industry disruption and major product giveaways.

    Key Takeaways:
    -Transitioning from one industry to another: Andrew showcases how adaptable business skills can lead to success across different sectors.
    -Power of digital marketing: Emphasizes the effectiveness and scaling prowess of Google Ads for lead generation in the junk removal industry.
    -Profit margins in junk removal: Details on profit margins and the factors that influence them, particularly for those fully hands-off the operational aspect of the business.
    -Insight on software innovation: A peek into Dispatch, a software that aims to simplify and innovate customer relations and retention for service-based businesses.
    -Event anticipation: The excitement building around the February 24 live virtual event, where major announcements and valuable giveaways will be offered.

    Quotes:
    - “I’ve been a software engineer since I was ten. I’ve been programming my entire life.”
    - “I was doing really well in junk removal… My highest month from two trucks running full time, seven days a week, 120-ish grand.”
    - “…integrated marketing tools was one feature that most FSMs are not getting right and it’s because it’s too complicated.”
    -“Success is often covered in dirt, but so is gold at one point.”

    Announcements:
    HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW BLUE COLLAR KIDS BOOK? https://www.bluecollarabc.com/
    Get a Free Audit of your Google Ads, SEO, Website, or Google Business Listing: https://bluecrocus.ca/website-seo-audit

    About the Show:
    Welcome to our podcast for contractors and business owners, hosted by Lewis Vandervalk of Blue Crocus Solutions. Our #1 goal is to connect with and learn from business owners, thought leaders, and coaches. We talk about their stories, where they have come from, where they are going, and their wins and lessons.

    If you want to be a guest on the podcast, email Lewis@bluecrocus.ca, and we can arrange a time if you are a good fit! We are especially interested in chatting with contractors and business owners who have fought through adversity and have the scars, experience, and insights to share from those times.

    Find Blue Crocus Solutions on the Web (With some resources):
    Get a FREE email script for reaching out to Realtors or Property Managers for Junk Removal: https://realtorscript.bluecrocus.ca/r...
    Connect with Blue Crocus Solutions on the web: https://www.bluecrocus.ca/
    Check us out and see our reviews: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=14274...
    Join our Facebook Group for Junk Removal Marketing Success Community:   / 148165343156578  
    Check out our Facebook Page:   / bluecrocussolutions  

    Find our Podcast Here:
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Wu30Zf...
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ro/podcast...
    Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR...
    Youtube: • The Blue Crocus Experience PODCAST

    #podcast , #contractors, #leads, #seo, #leadgeneration, #fredericton, #bluecrocussolutions, #business, #businessowners, #tips, #concrete, #treeservice, #fitness, #paving, #sealcoating, #remodeling, #pressurewashing, #asphalt, #treeservice, #concrete, #website, #webdesign, #customers, #homeadvisor, #Googleads, #junkremoval, #junk

    • 49 min
    112-TBCE- Brad Akers Marketing, should it be internal or external?

    112-TBCE- Brad Akers Marketing, should it be internal or external?

    Brad Akers is a former agency owner with substantial experience in the sales and marketing sector. Launching his career in the construction industry, specifically roofing distribution, Brad navigated the B2B sales landscape, skillfully managing accounts and discovering the critical need for business acumen in the field.


    His website: https://bgb-enterprises.com/

    Summary:
    In this enlightening episode of the Blue Crocus experience, host is joined by Brad, sales and marketing expert as he shares his insights on how businesses can optimize their marketing strategies to achieve compounding growth. He emphasizes the importance of turning one opportunity into multiple opportunities.

    Key Takeaways:
    -Businesses must understand the true cost per client acquisition to effectively budget for marketing services and calculate genuine ROI.
    -Focusing on cold leads should be a means to an end, with the goal being to convert initial opportunities into multiple, warmer opportunities.
    -Strategies like neighborhood marketing, direct mail around existing projects, and incentivized referrals are key to creating compounding growth.
    -Business owners share the responsibility of marketing success with their agencies and should actively work to spread their brand message.
    -Understanding and implementing core growth engines like direct mail and strategic social media branding can significantly reduce acquisition costs and drive business growth.

    Quotes:
    “You’re relying on the marketing campaign as the place that you’re getting leads. If it’s supplemental or if it’s a way to pour fuel in the fire, you’re fine, probably. But if not, then you’re in trouble.”
    “Most people optimize for cold leads and cold leads, I promise you, your days are not as fun.”
    “The goal and what you as the owner of the company can and should optimize for is creating compounding growth within your business.”
    “No one should be dependent on Google Ads for that long. It’s not a long-term tactic.”
    “Optimize for the right things in business and life. Really?”

    Announcements:
    HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW BLUE COLLAR KIDS BOOK? https://www.bluecollarabc.com/
    Get a Free Audit of your Google Ads, SEO, Website, or Google Business Listing: https://bluecrocus.ca/website-seo-audit

    About the Show:
    Welcome to our podcast for contractors and business owners, hosted by Lewis Vandervalk of Blue Crocus Solutions. Our #1 goal is to connect with and learn from business owners, thought leaders, and coaches. We talk about their stories, where they have come from, where they are going, and their wins and lessons.

    If you want to be a guest on the podcast, email Lewis@bluecrocus.ca, and we can arrange a time if you are a good fit! We are especially interested in chatting with contractors and business owners who have fought through adversity and have the scars, experience, and insights to share from those times.

    Find Blue Crocus Solutions on the Web (With some resources):
    Get a FREE email script for reaching out to Realtors or Property Managers for Junk Removal: https://realtorscript.bluecrocus.ca/r...
    Connect with Blue Crocus Solutions on the web: https://www.bluecrocus.ca/
    Check us out and see our reviews: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=14274...
    Join our Facebook Group for Junk Removal Marketing Success Community:   / 148165343156578  
    Check out our Facebook Page:   / bluecrocussolutions  Find our Podcast Here:
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Wu30Zf...
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ro/podcast...
    Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR...
    Youtube: • The Blue Crocus Experience PODCAST

    #podcast , #contractors, #leads, #seo, #leadgeneration, #fredericton, #bluecrocussolutions, #business, #businessowners, #tips, #concrete, #treeservice, #fitness, #paving, #sealcoating, #remodeling, #pressurewashing, #asphalt, #treeservice, #concrete, #website, #webdesign, #customers, #homeadvisor, #Googleads, #junkremoval, #junkremovalwebsit

    • 49 min
    111- TBCE- Dave Bunt Running a Junk Removal Business with a Unique Marketing Approach

    111- TBCE- Dave Bunt Running a Junk Removal Business with a Unique Marketing Approach

    Dave Bunt is a seasoned entrepreneur with a unique background. Prior to entering the business world, Dave served as a submariner in the Navy, engaging in rare and distinct experiences such as surfacing through the ice at the North Pole. After his military service, he transitioned into the civilian workforce at a nuclear power plant, which culminated in a 17-year tenure.

    His website: https://backwoodsjunkremoval.com/

    Summary:
    In this episode of the Blue Crocus Experience, host and guest Dave discuss his unique approach to junk removal, including running with a kilt and an American flag. They delve into the power of branding and personal marketing, as well as the importance of networking and connecting with realtors.

    Key Takeaways:
    - Unique Branding: Wearing a kilt while running is part of Dave’s unique branding strategy, making him and Backwoods Junk Removal stand out.
    -Community Engagement: Dave’s marketing philosophy includes strong community engagement through free offerings like Christmas tree removal, which doubles as a marketing tool.
    -Mentorship Importance: He emphasizes the value of mentorship and learning from others’ experiences to avoid common pitfalls and expedite business growth.
    -Strategic Partnership: The strategic division of roles with his business partner, Terrence, contributes significantly to their business’s accomplishments.
    -Customer Retention: Dave stresses the importance of considering clients as lifelong connections and the significance of providing added value for sustainability and word-of-mouth marketing.

    Quotes:
    “Wearing a kilt while running is very liberating and it’s just kind of one of the things I do.”
    “I will no longer advertise for anybody but myself.”
    “It all runs smooth. The older kids, they know one of the enlightening things is when we took our oldest to college for orientation…”
    “Sometimes you just got to bicker. We do everything shy of the physical scrapping.”
    “Look, in hindsight, even it was kind of eye-opening when I said it. But finding a mentor, that’s a good way.”

    Announcements:
    HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW BLUE COLLAR KIDS BOOK? https://www.bluecollarabc.com/
    Get a Free Audit of your Google Ads, SEO, Website, or Google Business Listing: https://bluecrocus.ca/website-seo-audit

    About the Show:
    Welcome to our podcast for contractors and business owners, hosted by Lewis Vandervalk of Blue Crocus Solutions. Our #1 goal is to connect with and learn from business owners, thought leaders, and coaches. We talk about their stories, where they have come from, where they are going, and their wins and lessons.

    If you want to be a guest on the podcast, email Lewis@bluecrocus.ca, and we can arrange a time if you are a good fit! We are especially interested in chatting with contractors and business owners who have fought through adversity and have the scars, experience, and insights to share from those times.

    Find Blue Crocus Solutions on the Web (With some resources):
    Get a FREE email script for reaching out to Realtors or Property Managers for Junk Removal: https://realtorscript.bluecrocus.ca/r...
    Connect with Blue Crocus Solutions on the web: https://www.bluecrocus.ca/
    Check us out and see our reviews: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=14274...
    Join our Facebook Group for Junk Removal Marketing Success Community:   / 148165343156578  
    Check out our Facebook Page:   / bluecrocussolutions  Find our Podcast Here:
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Wu30Zf...
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ro/podcast...
    Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR...
    Youtube: • The Blue Crocus Experience PODCAST

    #podcast , #contractors, #leads, #seo, #leadgeneration, #fredericton, #bluecrocussolutions, #business, #businessowners, #tips, #concrete, #treeservice, #fitness, #paving, #sealcoating, #remodeling, #pressurewashing, #asphalt, #treeservice, #concrete, #website, #webdesign, #customers, #homeadvisor, #Googleads, #junkremoval, #junk

    • 39 min
    110- TBCE- Scott Rammage: Delegating and Creating SOPs for Business Growth and Success

    110- TBCE- Scott Rammage: Delegating and Creating SOPs for Business Growth and Success

    Scott Rammage is a seasoned entrepreneur with a rich history of starting, running, and selling businesses over a 22-year span. With a formal education background including a master’s degree in education and a degree in Psychology, he initially pursued a career in public education before venturing into entrepreneurship.

    His website: https://www.vamediamachine.com/

    *Summary:*
    In an engaging episode of the Blue Crocus Experience, host Lewis sits down with entrepreneur Scott Rammage to delve into the transformative impact of effective delegation and the creation of Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) for business growth.

    Key Takeaways:
    -Creating detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) is critical for business efficiencies and for ensuring consistency across operations.
    -Effective delegation, according to Scott, can help business owners focus on their strengths and ultimately contribute to both personal satisfaction and business growth.
    -Virtual professionals, when integrated correctly, can take over various business operations, leading to significant time savings and cost efficiencies.
    -The implementation of SoPs is as important as their creation, requiring commitment from the entire team and alignment with the company’s core values.
    -Scott highlights the psychological aspect of business ownership, discussing identity, purpose, and the significance of finding joy beyond just work activities.

    *Quotes:*
    “You create SOPs so that you can replace that person… Most people won’t do it because they feel like their job is going to be stolen from them.”
    “You can’t overlook anything and really literally ask yourself this… If I were to hire a new person today, do I have to talk to them?”
    “Diet, exercise, and gratitude journaling. You cannot lose in your day if you start with gratitude.”
    “You should keep your family values above work but it’s important to understand quality time is far more fulfilling than quantity.”

    *Announcements:*
    HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW BLUE COLLAR KIDS BOOK? https://www.bluecollarabc.com/
    Get a Free Audit of your Google Ads, SEO, Website, or Google Business Listing: https://bluecrocus.ca/website-seo-audit

    *About the Show:*
    Welcome to our podcast for contractors and business owners, hosted by Lewis Vandervalk of Blue Crocus Solutions. Our #1 goal is to connect with and learn from business owners, thought leaders, and coaches. We talk about their stories, where they have come from, where they are going, and their wins and lessons.

    If you want to be a guest on the podcast, email Lewis@bluecrocus.ca, and we can arrange a time if you are a good fit! We are especially interested in chatting with contractors and business owners who have fought through adversity and have the scars, experience, and insights to share from those times.

    Find Blue Crocus Solutions on the Web (With some resources):
    Get a FREE email script for reaching out to Realtors or Property Managers for Junk Removal: https://realtorscript.bluecrocus.ca/r...
    Connect with Blue Crocus Solutions on the web: https://www.bluecrocus.ca/
    Check us out and see our reviews: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=14274...
    Join our Facebook Group for Junk Removal Marketing Success Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/148165343156578/
    Check out our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/bluecrocussolutions

    *Find our Podcast Here:*
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Wu30Zf...
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ro/podcast...
    Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR...
    Youtube: • The Blue Crocus Experience PODCAST

    #podcast , #contractors, #leads, #seo, #leadgeneration, #fredericton, #bluecrocussolutions, #business, #businessowners, #tips, #concrete, #treeservice, #fitness, #paving, #sealcoating, #remodeling, #pressurewashing, #asphalt, #treeservice, #concrete, #website, #webdesign, #customers, #homeadvisor, #Googleads, #junkremoval, #junkremovalwebsites

    • 1 hr 3 min
    109- TBCE-Jason Kersten, from SEO to Junk Removal: A Unique Business Journey

    109- TBCE-Jason Kersten, from SEO to Junk Removal: A Unique Business Journey

    Jason Kersten is the co-founder of Kersten Family Junk Removal based in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. . Before venturing into junk removal, Jason had a fulfilling career as a mental health counselor and delved into the world of SEO, mastering the art of lead generation websites.

    His website: https://www.ecjunkpickup.com/



    Summary:
    In this episode, we uncover Jason's journey into the industry and the exceptional growth strategies fueling his business. The discussion navigates through Jason’s early SEO projects, his choice to establish a junk removal business fueled by a strong online presence, and the significant roles community engagement and innovative recycling efforts play in his company’s operations.

    Key Takeaways:
    -A strong online presence and SEO can drive enormous growth and lead generation in the junk removal business.
    -Community involvement and taking advantage of local events like expos can significantly increase brand visibility and customer acquisition.
    -Innovative recycling initiatives, such as mattress recycling, can distinguish a junk removal service and contribute to sustainability efforts.
    -Leveraging digital tools like Housecall Pro can streamline operations, enhancing customer satisfaction and encouraging positive reviews.
    -Incorporating cold therapy into one’s routine can lead to personal health benefits and an unexpected connective thread with the community.

    Quotes:
    “We were literally able to start our business and have a full schedule on day one.”
    “The Home Builders Association Expo, that’s probably the easiest $1,000 we’ll spend in a year.”
    “We recycle metal, we donate as much as we can, we sell some stuff, we’re recycling mattresses.”
    “Since I started the cold plunges, I started to notice the difference. I was feeling way calmer, more peace, just feeling uplifted and inspired and motivated.”
    “Once you get into Housecall Pro, […] it sends out an email and a text message with a link that brings them right to Google to leave the review.”

    Announcements:
    HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW BLUE COLLAR KIDS BOOK? https://www.bluecollarabc.com/
    Get a Free Audit of your Google Ads, SEO, Website, or Google Business Listing: https://bluecrocus.ca/website-seo-audit

    About the Show:
    Welcome to our podcast for contractors and business owners, hosted by Lewis Vandervalk of Blue Crocus Solutions. Our #1 goal is to connect with and learn from business owners, thought leaders, and coaches. We talk about their stories, where they have come from, where they are going, and their wins and lessons.

    If you want to be a guest on the podcast, email Lewis@bluecrocus.ca, and we can arrange a time if you are a good fit! We are especially interested in chatting with contractors and business owners who have fought through adversity and have the scars, experience, and insights to share from those times.

    Find Blue Crocus Solutions on the Web (With some resources):
    Get a FREE email script for reaching out to Realtors or Property Managers for Junk Removal: https://realtorscript.bluecrocus.ca/r...
    Connect with Blue Crocus Solutions on the web: https://www.bluecrocus.ca/
    Check us out and see our reviews: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=14274...
    Join our Facebook Group for Junk Removal Marketing Success Community:   / 148165343156578  
    Check out our Facebook Page:   / bluecrocussolutions  



    Find our Podcast Here:
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Wu30Zf...
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ro/podcast...
    Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR...
    Youtube: • The Blue Crocus Experience PODCAST

    #podcast , #contractors, #leads, #seo, #leadgeneration, #fredericton, #bluecrocussolutions, #business, #businessowners, #tips, #concrete, #treeservice, #fitness, #paving, #sealcoating, #remodeling, #pressurewashing, #asphalt, #treeservice, #concrete, #website, #webdesign, #customers, #homeadvisor, #Googleads, #junkremoval, #junkremovalwebsites

    • 47 min

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