The Deep End with Eric Triplett

Eric Triplett

The Deep End with Eric Triplett is a show for contractors, builders, tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and leaders who want to sharpen their mindset, elevate their performance, and build remarkable lives. Hosted by Eric Triplett — "The Pond Digger" — a lifelong tradesman and 7-figure contractor, this podcast dives into leadership, sales communication, business systems, discipline, and personal mastery… all grounded in Eric's decades of experience in construction, aquatics, and high-level coaching. Here, you'll also hear powerful conversations on aquatics, wildlife, and the water world that shaped Eric's career — from ponds and koi to aquariums and life outdoors. Whether you're running crews, running a business, or running toward a better version of yourself, this show challenges you to go deeper through depth, discipline, and diligence. Welcome to The Deep End — where trades meet transformation.

  1. 5D AGO

    S2-E45: The Race Isn't Won at the First Turn

    Eric uses the Kentucky Derby as a powerful metaphor for entrepreneurial persistence and personal growth. He highlights the story of a horse named Golden Tempo and its trainer, the first woman to win the race, to demonstrate that a poor starting position does not dictate one's ultimate success. Triplet argues that contractors and business owners often feel defeated by current hardships, but he insists that mental resilience and internal dialogue are the keys to a late-game victory. By focusing on discipline and belief rather than early-stage sprinting, individuals can overcome long odds and industry skepticism.  Key Takeaways: Don't let your current position in life or business dictate where you will finish or define your ultimate potential. Master your internal dialogue by talking to yourself with the determination to win instead of just trying to avoid failure. Embrace persistence and realize that history does not care how old you are or how long it takes for you to reach your goals. Pursue your vision without seeking permission from competitors, family members, or industry critics who may doubt your path. Maintain a steady and disciplined pace to endure long-term pressure rather than burning out from an unsustainable early sprint. 🔱 Links & Resources 🚨 Sign Up for Eric's Email List https://forms.gle/QdcEbai6yPmpzhyn7 🛠 Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets https://contractorsalessecrets.com/ Book a Call with Eric Triplett https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/callwithtriplett FREE Contractor Sales Training https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/cc 🌿 Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger https://theponddigger.com/ Helix Pond Filtration http://helixpondfiltration.com/ Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips https://fitzfishponds.com/koi-trips/ Pond Trade Magazine https://www.pondtrademag.com/ 📱 Connect The Pond Digger on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger The Pond Digger on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theponddigger Train With Triplett on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@trainwithtriplett 📅 Events & Communities Profit Accelerator Live - June 26-27 * Richmond, VA https://www.eventbrite.com/e/profit-accelerator-live-tickets-1983337228039  TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorcircle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorpowercircle 💼 Sponsors LiveSwitch https://join.liveswitch.com/TheDeepEnd

    31 min
  2. MAY 8

    S2-E44: You Can't Fix What You Can't See - Contractor Edition with Naylor Taliaferro

    Eric talks with Naylor Taliaferro about the hidden "blind spots" that prevent contractors from achieving growth. Taliaferro shares his journey from a soul-crushing corporate career to finding fulfillment by building a successful lawn care business and mentoring others in the industry. The conversation highlights the importance of mindset, specifically debunking the myth that "time is money" to help entrepreneurs prioritize their personal lives and long-term health. They promote the upcoming Profit Accelerator Live event, a hands-on workshop designed to help landscape professionals master money management and operational efficiency. Key Takeaways: Recognize that time is infinitely more valuable than money because it is the only resource that can never be recovered once it is spent. Schedule your life priorities first, including family and health, so that your business is built around your personal needs instead of the other way around. Prioritize mindset shifts over technical tactics, as your underlying beliefs determine whether you will successfully implement new business strategies. Seek out intimate mastermind groups to gain specific business advice that addresses your unique hurdles rather than only attending large-scale lectures. Identify hidden blind spots by engaging with mentors and communities that can highlight the costly mistakes you aren't yet aware of.   🔱 Links & Resources 🚨 Sign Up for Eric's Email List https://forms.gle/QdcEbai6yPmpzhyn7 🛠 Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets https://contractorsalessecrets.com/ Book a Call with Eric Triplett https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/callwithtriplett FREE Contractor Sales Training https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/cc 🌿 Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger https://theponddigger.com/ Helix Pond Filtration http://helixpondfiltration.com/ Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips https://fitzfishponds.com/koi-trips/ Pond Trade Magazine https://www.pondtrademag.com/ 📱 Connect The Pond Digger on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger The Pond Digger on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theponddigger Train With Triplett on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@trainwithtriplett 📅 Events & Communities Profit Accelerator Live - June 26-27 * Richmond, VA https://www.eventbrite.com/e/profit-accelerator-live-tickets-1983337228039  TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorcircle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorpowercircle 💼 Sponsors LiveSwitch https://join.liveswitch.com/TheDeepEnd

    1h 8m
  3. MAY 4

    S2-E43: Are You Being Pushed by Pain… or Pulled by Purpose?

    Eric explores the dynamic between push and pull motivation, emphasizing the power of a compelling future vision to drive business growth. He argues that most entrepreneurs are merely pushed by immediate stressors like bills, whereas a defined, long-term goal acts as a gravitational force that attracts opportunities and accountability. To illustrate this transition, Eric discusses his own objective of building a $50 million brand through intentional team training and standardized operating procedures. Participants in the call share personal successes with these principles, such as overcoming limiting beliefs and improving sales techniques through silence and direct communication. Key Takeaways: Define a vision so big and compelling that it pulls you toward your goals rather than waiting for external pain to push you into action. Transition from being the sole source of knowledge to creating written or video standard operating procedures that allow your business to scale. Commit to training your team members daily to improve their performance and increase the overall value they bring to the company. Implement daily sync meetings to ensure everyone is aligned on tasks and to address issues before they become major problems. Stop waiting for customers to find you and instead proactively pursue your ideal clients through direct outreach and personal connections. 🔱 Links & Resources 🚨 Sign Up for Eric's Email List https://forms.gle/QdcEbai6yPmpzhyn7 🛠 Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets https://contractorsalessecrets.com/ Book a Call with Eric Triplett https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/callwithtriplett FREE Contractor Sales Training https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/cc 🌿 Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger https://theponddigger.com/ Helix Pond Filtration http://helixpondfiltration.com/ Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips https://fitzfishponds.com/koi-trips/ Pond Trade Magazine https://www.pondtrademag.com/ 📱 Connect The Pond Digger on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger The Pond Digger on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theponddigger Train With Triplett on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@trainwithtriplett 📅 Events & Communities Profit Accelerator Live - June 26-27 * Richmond, VA https://www.eventbrite.com/e/profit-accelerator-live-tickets-1983337228039  TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorcircle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorpowercircle 💼 Sponsors LiveSwitch https://join.liveswitch.com/TheDeepEnd

    59 min
  4. MAY 1

    S2-E42: Your Circle Is Building You… or Breaking You - with Zoe Asher

    Eric talks with his friend Zoe Asher about building intentional adult friendships. They explore the idea of a "friendship audit," the loneliness many people are facing, especially men, and why vulnerability is key to real connection. Zoe encourages listeners to stop waiting for meaningful friendships to happen and instead become the kind of friend they hope to find. Key Takeaways: Perform a friendship audit to categorize your inner circle into specific roles such as the loyalist, confidant, champion, mentor, and truth-teller. Set recurring calendar alerts for your friends' significant life dates, including anniversaries of loss or celebration, to ensure you provide meaningful support year after year. Prioritize personal phone calls on birthdays rather than sending generic digital messages to stand out and foster a more authentic human connection. Proactively communicate your personal boundaries and emotional capacities to your friends to build a foundation of honesty and avoid the friction caused by unspoken expectations. Focus on becoming the type of friend you desire by leading with vulnerability and "going first" to embody the qualities you value in others. 🔱 Links & Resources 🚨 Sign Up for Eric's Email List https://forms.gle/QdcEbai6yPmpzhyn7 🛠 Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets https://contractorsalessecrets.com/ Book a Call with Eric Triplett https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/callwithtriplett FREE Contractor Sales Training https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/cc 🌿 Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger https://theponddigger.com/ Helix Pond Filtration http://helixpondfiltration.com/ Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips https://fitzfishponds.com/koi-trips/ Pond Trade Magazine https://www.pondtrademag.com/ 📱 Connect The Pond Digger on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger The Pond Digger on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theponddigger Train With Triplett on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@trainwithtriplett 📅 Events & Communities Profit Accelerator Live - June 26-27 * Richmond, VA https://www.eventbrite.com/e/profit-accelerator-live-tickets-1983337228039  TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorcircle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorpowercircle 💼 Sponsors LiveSwitch https://join.liveswitch.com/TheDeepEnd

    1h 57m
  5. APR 27

    S2-E41: Culture, Coachella, & A Comeback - Weekly Compass 207

    In this episode, Eric uses Justin Bieber's career trajectory to provide motivational insights for contractors and entrepreneurs. He frames Bieber's recent live performances as a masterclass in resilience and self-awareness, emphasizing how the artist successfully navigated public failure to launch a calculated comeback. Triplet parallels these celebrity struggles with the financial and personal hardships faced by tradesmen, such as bankruptcy and burnout. He urges his audience to stop hiding their vulnerabilities and instead return to their authentic roots to rebuild their businesses. Key Takeaways: Embrace your failures and setbacks as necessary opportunities to rebuild a stronger and more authentic version of yourself. Strip away the need to impress others and focus on being raw and vulnerable to build real trust with your audience. Reconnect with your original passion and roots to maintain your identity and ground yourself during difficult transitions. Prioritize strategic "chess moves" and smart planning over simply trying to work harder or grind through your problems. Practice transparent leadership by being willing to admit mistakes and adjust your course in real-time when you receive new information. 🔱 Links & Resources 🚨 Sign Up for Eric's Email List https://forms.gle/QdcEbai6yPmpzhyn7 🛠 Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets https://contractorsalessecrets.com/ Book a Call with Eric Triplett https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/callwithtriplett FREE Contractor Sales Training https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/cc 🌿 Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger https://theponddigger.com/ Helix Pond Filtration http://helixpondfiltration.com/ Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips https://fitzfishponds.com/koi-trips/ Pond Trade Magazine https://www.pondtrademag.com/ 📱 Connect The Pond Digger on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger The Pond Digger on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theponddigger Train With Triplett on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@trainwithtriplett 📅 Events & Communities Profit Accelerator Live - June 26-27 * Richmond, VA https://www.eventbrite.com/e/profit-accelerator-live-tickets-1983337228039  TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorcircle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorpowercircle 💼 Sponsors LiveSwitch https://join.liveswitch.com/TheDeepEnd

    48 min
  6. APR 24

    S2-E40: How Much Money Is Enough? With Tyson Matyas & Slayer

    Eric, Tyson, and Slayer explore the four levels of money and the subjective nature of personal value. They discuss the challenges of scaling a business, balancing rising overhead costs with the need to pay employees a living wage. The crew critiques the "copout" mindset that money is unimportant, arguing instead that financial success is necessary for survival, freedom, and legacy. Through anecdotes about firefighting, electrical work, and pond maintenance, they illustrate how market demand and specialized expertise dictate one's worth. Ultimately, the discussion emphasizes that professional growth and a clear long-term vision are essential to avoiding stagnation and achieving a high quality of life. Key Takeaways: Focus on increasing your personal value and professional skills rather than expecting higher pay simply for the amount of time you have spent at a job. Stop telling yourself that money is not important and recognize it as a necessary tool for supporting your family and achieving your desired quality of life. Calculate your daily living expenses and overhead to understand exactly how much you need to earn to move beyond a paycheck-to-paycheck cycle. Align yourself with growth-oriented companies or set massive long-term visions for your own business to ensure you and your team have continuous opportunities for advancement. Seek out specific clients or "rooms" where your unique expertise is most highly valued and appreciated so you can command the compensation you deserve. 🔱 Links & Resources 🚨 Sign Up for Eric's Email List https://forms.gle/QdcEbai6yPmpzhyn7 🛠 Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets https://contractorsalessecrets.com/ Book a Call with Eric Triplett https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/callwithtriplett FREE Contractor Sales Training https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/cc 🌿 Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger https://theponddigger.com/ Helix Pond Filtration http://helixpondfiltration.com/ Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips https://fitzfishponds.com/koi-trips/ Pond Trade Magazine https://www.pondtrademag.com/ 📱 Connect The Pond Digger on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger The Pond Digger on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theponddigger Train With Triplett on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@trainwithtriplett 📅 Events & Communities Profit Accelerator Live - June 26-27 * Richmond, VA https://www.eventbrite.com/e/profit-accelerator-live-tickets-1983337228039  TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorcircle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorpowercircle 💼 Sponsors LiveSwitch https://join.liveswitch.com/TheDeepEnd

    1h 9m
  7. APR 23

    S2-E39: Sakura Festival + Craft Beer with Melissa Fisher

    This interview features Melissa, the co-owner of Escape Craft Brewery, discussing the history and operations of her family business in Redlands. She explains the origin of their Sakura beer, a unique brew inspired by cherry blossom green tea, which has become a year-round staple. The conversation covers the technical challenges of brewing, such as maintaining consistency despite natural variations in hops and grain. Melissa also highlights the brewery's commitment to community through the Sakura Festival, an event celebrating Japanese culture and local art. Additionally, she addresses the business's adaptation to the current economy by offering non-alcoholic mocktails and hosting diverse social events. Key Takeaways: Don't be afraid to experiment with unconventional ideas, as even "weird" ingredients can lead to unique and successful outcomes. Turn your passions into a profession by listening to the encouragement of your community and taking calculated risks. Prioritize a healthy lifestyle by staying active and being mindful of your diet and exercise habits. Practice economic prudence by focusing on strengthening your current operations during uncertain financial times. Engage with your local community by hosting or supporting events that celebrate culture and give back to meaningful causes like animal rescue. 🔱 Links & Resources 🚨 Sign Up for Eric's Email List https://forms.gle/QdcEbai6yPmpzhyn7 🛠 Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets https://contractorsalessecrets.com/ Book a Call with Eric Triplett https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/callwithtriplett FREE Contractor Sales Training https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/cc 🌿 Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger https://theponddigger.com/ Helix Pond Filtration http://helixpondfiltration.com/ Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips https://fitzfishponds.com/koi-trips/ Pond Trade Magazine https://www.pondtrademag.com/ 📱 Connect The Pond Digger on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger The Pond Digger on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theponddigger Train With Triplett on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@trainwithtriplett 📅 Events & Communities TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorcircle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorpowercircle 💼 Sponsors LiveSwitch https://join.liveswitch.com/TheDeepEnd

    35 min
  8. APR 20

    S2-E38: What's REALLY Trending in SoCal Aquatics Right Now (w/ Nolan's Aquarium)

    The aquarium world is getting smaller, more specialized, and far more innovative. Recorded at AquaSwap 2026, this conversation with Nolan of Nolan's Aquarium explores how the fish-keeping industry is evolving as hobbyists shift toward nano tanks, aquatic plants, and Madaka ricefish—and why independent businesses need to evolve with them. Nolan shares how his business moved away from breeding large African cichlids and toward categories that better reflect what customers are actually looking for today. The conversation also dives into the growing appeal of micro reef systems, including portable, battery-powered saltwater setups that are opening new possibilities for hobbyists who want flexibility without sacrificing complexity. Along the way, Eric Triplet and Nolan discuss the role local fish clubs play in building knowledge, community, and long-term enthusiasm for the hobby. They also unpack why listening carefully to customer needs, stocking trusted specialty products, and staying close to the community remain some of the most important advantages an independent shop can have. Covered in this episode: • How shifting consumer demand is changing the direction of aquarium businesses • Why nano tanks, aquatic plants, and Madaka ricefish are gaining traction • What makes micro reef systems such a compelling innovation in the saltwater space • How local fish clubs help grow the hobby for beginners and experienced keepers alike • Why customer listening is essential for better recommendations and stronger business decisions • How specialized dry goods can help independent shops stand out • What authenticity looks like when stocking and recommending products • Why curiosity and everyday conversation starters can create unexpected business opportunities This episode offers a practical look at where the aquatic hobby is headed—and what it takes to stay relevant, useful, and passionate in a rapidly changing niche. 🔱 Links & Resources 🚨 Sign Up for Eric's Email List https://forms.gle/QdcEbai6yPmpzhyn7 🛠 Business & Sales Tools Contractor Sales Secrets https://contractorsalessecrets.com/ Book a Call with Eric Triplett https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/callwithtriplett FREE Contractor Sales Training https://www.twtcontractorcoaching.com/cc 🌿 Pond Industry Resources The Pond Digger https://theponddigger.com/ Helix Pond Filtration http://helixpondfiltration.com/ Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips https://fitzfishponds.com/koi-trips/ Pond Trade Magazine https://www.pondtrademag.com/ 📱 Connect The Pond Digger on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger The Pond Digger on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theponddigger Train With Triplett on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@trainwithtriplett 📅 Events & Communities TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorcircle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/twtcontractorpowercircle 💼 Sponsors LiveSwitch https://join.liveswitch.com/TheDeepEnd

    34 min
5
out of 5
158 Ratings

About

The Deep End with Eric Triplett is a show for contractors, builders, tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and leaders who want to sharpen their mindset, elevate their performance, and build remarkable lives. Hosted by Eric Triplett — "The Pond Digger" — a lifelong tradesman and 7-figure contractor, this podcast dives into leadership, sales communication, business systems, discipline, and personal mastery… all grounded in Eric's decades of experience in construction, aquatics, and high-level coaching. Here, you'll also hear powerful conversations on aquatics, wildlife, and the water world that shaped Eric's career — from ponds and koi to aquariums and life outdoors. Whether you're running crews, running a business, or running toward a better version of yourself, this show challenges you to go deeper through depth, discipline, and diligence. Welcome to The Deep End — where trades meet transformation.

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