100 episodes

Small Business Ownership & Personal Development

Hosted by Keith Kalfas from the Landscaping Employee Trap & Window Cleaning Blueprint.

The Untrapped Podcast With Keith Kalfas Keith Kalfas

    • Business

Small Business Ownership & Personal Development

Hosted by Keith Kalfas from the Landscaping Employee Trap & Window Cleaning Blueprint.

    Handling Stress & Overwhelm - What I've Learned To Overcome it

    Handling Stress & Overwhelm - What I've Learned To Overcome it

     
    In this engaging episode, I took a deep dive into the world of entrepreneurship, grappling with the formidable foes of overwhelm and stress. I learned that the key lies in remaining calm in the face of chaos, cutting off distractions, and owning up to our commitments. It's not just about pushing through; it's about finding that sweet spot and edge where growth and challenges intersect. 
    I also made an important distinction between material Success and true fulfillment. It's not just about the numbers in your bank account; it's about aligning with your purpose and finding holistic wealth.
    So, remember, when you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders, dig deep, take charge, and overcome the overwhelm. 
    This is your journey to unleashing your true potential and thriving in business.
    "I think that you can have all of the materialistic wealth and money and riches and the boat and the cars and the houses and all these things and be able to give to charities and help people and stuff like and do all these beautiful things and have a vacation home and do the thing that you love and are passionate and your dream and desire to do. But you have to turn off the world and check out of the world and stay checked into strategy and your heart and what means the most to you."  - Keith.
    Topic Covered:
    00:00 - Manage overwhelm by finding your edge and working it.
    05:06 - Text customer, prioritize calm and avoid overwhelm.
    06:29 - Experienced freedom and self-care crucial for well-being.
    12:07- Success lies in finding purpose, hard work, and embracing challenges. Instead of pursuing materialistic wealth, strive to do what you love, even during difficult times. Embrace the idea of falling in love with what you hate as a secret to reaching the next level, as suggested by Grant Cardone.
    15:06 - Embracing the wealth of being present, overcoming anxiety.

    Key Takeaways:
    Self-Awareness and Thresholds: This is vital to determining our stress thresholds and understanding our unique tolerances. It is beautifully likened to finding our "edge," highlighting the significance of operating at the brink without succumbing to overwhelming circumstances. Balancing Priorities: The delicate balance between professional commitments, personal well-being, and family responsibilities. The fundamental role of self-care is in managing and preventing being overwhelmed. Purpose and Fulfillment: This goes beyond the conventional conversation, the impact of societal expectations and individual aspirations. Pursuing genuine fulfillment and purpose transcends the allure of material Success into inner contentment. Taking Responsibility: An integral takeaway revolved around the significance of assuming responsibility for our commitments and decisions. Eloquently express the importance of embracing challenges and taking decisive action to triumph over overwhelming circumstances.  
    Resources and Websites:
    🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇
    Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series
    Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs
    LANDSCAPING BUSINESS
    How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16
    Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs.
    Get Ballard: https://www.ballard-inc.com/
    Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget
    Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone
    Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower
    Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence

    • 17 min
    How To Grow Your Personal Brand and Monetize

    How To Grow Your Personal Brand and Monetize

    In today's episode I  deep dive into the intricate world of content creation, marketing, and personal development. I peeled back the layers of impactful storytelling, emphasizing the incredible power of harnessing emotions to create compelling and meaningful content. My discussions also illuminated the importance of unwavering authenticity in an industry plagued by manipulative marketing tactics. I delved into the challenging yet transformative journey of transitioning businesses, effectively automating operations, and cultivating financial stability. By exploring personal anecdotes and insights, I unearthed the pivotal role of integrity, strategically building and managing your team, and harnessing social media to foster exponential business growth.  Elevate your business game and leave a lasting impact! Head to keithkalfas.com to access exclusive insights and grab your free downloadable guide on smartphone-based social media marketing. It’s time to turn your dreams into reality!
     
    Topics Covered:

    00:00 Embrace bold action and leverage online content creation.
    09:04 Passion and targeted content are essential for success.
    13:43 Influencers emphasize integrity in making money online.
    18:49 Parking lot lines symbolize life's journey.
    23:22 Overcome fear, embrace change, and stay passionate.
    31:53 Started landscape business with raw authenticity and passion.
    37:03 Entrepreneur warns against manipulative marketing tactics.
    39:25 Podcast and media businesses thrive and diversify income.
    48:49 Stay focused and purpose-driven; avoid distractions.
    54:22 Fully commit to video/podcast. Use every moment.
    57:13 Structure habits, set rules for specific behavior.
    01:05:40 Building a personal brand and marketing strategy.
    01:09:29 Struggling with services, considering removing window cleaning.
    01:16:35 Commitment attracts like-minded individuals, and fear repels.
    01:18:55 Interview, hire and test virtual assistants efficiently.
    01:25:20 Invest in books, business, and executive assistance.
    01:27:34 Free group coaching call invites for everyone.
     
     
    Key Takeaways
    Embrace Authenticity: the power of staying true to your vision and using emotions as fuel for impactful content creation. Authenticity resonates with audiences on a deeper level. Commit to Integrity: the importance of maintaining integrity in content creation and business practices, steering clear of manipulative marketing and unethical behavior. Honesty is key to building sustainable success. Harness the Power of Customer Data: Monetizing customer data, remarketing, and the value of customer lists can help ensure long-term business success. Focus on specific niches and avoid overextending yourself.  
     
    Resources and Websites: 
    🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇
    Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series
    Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs
    LANDSCAPING BUSINESS
    How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16
    Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs
    Get Ballard: https://www.ballard-inc.com/
    Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget
    Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone
    Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower
    Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence

    • 1 hr 29 min
    "KNOW YOUR WORTH" | This Video Will Change Your Life | Keith Kalfas Speech (Lawntreprenuer Academy)

    "KNOW YOUR WORTH" | This Video Will Change Your Life | Keith Kalfas Speech (Lawntreprenuer Academy)

    In today's episode,  I delved into the critical topic of understanding your worth in the business world. I shared valuable insights on setting boundaries, implementing minimum pricing, and the significance of prequalifying employees. My personal anecdotes and hard-earned wisdom paint a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs entrepreneurs often face. My message is a powerful reminder that we are the architects of our worth as business owners. It's time to take control, stand firm in our value, and let this session embolden and guide us on our entrepreneurial path.
    I started raising the prices on the customers that were outside the service area incrementally without however far they were. It was so hard to do when customers dropped, by and they said, hey. Last year, it was a $1,000 to do all this. Why is it, you know, 12, 1400? And if you have a reason why, and you believe it in your heart, and you know your worth If you believe it in your heart, they'll feel it and you'll get it. And you'll start to get it more and more and more. - Keith 
     
    Topics Covered:
    00:00 Community recognizes Keith's impact and authenticity.
    05:43 Struggling with demanding boss and financial dishonesty.
    08:11 Establish boundaries, work smarter, prioritize well-being.
    11:16 Set aside 30% for taxes and raise prices.
    15:31 Raising prices to cover travel and density.
    17:35 Struggles lead to a desire for a better life.
    21:00 Overcoming hardship, finding identity, and making accurate decisions.
    22:59 Embrace life's challenges and seek rewards.
     
    Key Takeaways

    🚀 **Know Your Worth**: Keith shares his personal journey of realizing his worth in the landscaping business. Understanding your value is crucial for success in any industry.
    📈 **Minimum Pricing**: Establishing a minimum price and not compromising on it is essential. It's about standing your ground and delivering value that matches your worth.
    🌐 **Marketing and Advertising**: Keith emphasizes the importance of continuous marketing and advertising efforts. Keeping the hopper full and staying booked are vital for business growth.
     
    Resources and Websites: 
    🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇
    Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series
    Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs
    LANDSCAPING BUSINESS
    How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16
    Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs
    Get Ballard: https://www.ballard-inc.com/
    Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget
    Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone
    Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower
    Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence

    • 23 min
    Master Your Business Finances w/ Dan Platta

    Master Your Business Finances w/ Dan Platta

    In our podcast episode, we delved into the sobering realities of entrepreneurial growth. We explored the complexities of navigating business transitions, emphasizing the critical need to separate personal and business finances. Our discussion shed light on the strategic investment decisions that define success in the competitive landscape of entrepreneurship.
    Join me and my friend Dan Platta on this journey through the challenges and triumphs of building a sustainable business, where the sacrifices made for growth are met with unwavering dedication and a steadfast commitment to financial discipline. Tune in to gain invaluable insights into the unvarnished truths of the entrepreneurial journey and the unwavering focus required to succeed in the dynamic world of business.
     
    "Know that you are 2 different people. You are a CEO, and you are an owner. We like to use the term owner operator a lot in the service industry, And even that is 2 separate words, and they are 2 different people. We just smash them together like it's the same person. But owners don't have jobs. Owners don't get paychecks. Owners sit on a beach and get dividend checks and check in every once in a while to see what's going on. CEOs or operators have jobs, get a paycheck, show up to work, do the thing, and make operating decisions, which are different than investment decisions."- Dan Platta
     
    Topics Covered:
    00:00 - Valuable content transformed my business. Grateful mentor.
    05:46 - Making profitable decisions is crucial for business.
    12:06 - Comedian shares business principles from fishing experience.
    17:53 - Leverage debt strategically for business expansion and earn rewards.
    23:29 - Submit old PDF to be taxed as S Corp.
    28:36 -  Ownership entails investing and overseeing business operations.
    36:55 -  Balancing work, fitness, and family responsibilities.
    46:21 - Maintaining work-life balance through intentional activities.
    53:22 - Dedication to pool upkeep and family enjoyment.
    59:04 - Business growth presents financial challenges and increased expenses.
    01:01:36 - Delegate tasks, focus on growth and marketing.
    01:10:58 - Discussing business growth and profit margin strategy.
    01:15:06 - Challenges of business growth and leadership at $1,000,000.
    01:21:55 - Analyzing marketing investment and growth strategy risks.
    01:23:56 - The entrepreneur's aggressive growth strategy leads to a heavy financial burden.
    01:34:05 - Express heartfelt encouragement and courage sincerely and earnestly.
    01:35:37 - Struggling as a guest to not take over.
     
    Key Takeaways
     Separate and Conquer: Always maintain a clear separation between personal and business finances, which is essential for managing and growing a successful business. Growth Mindset: Embrace the challenges and sacrifices of business growth, understanding that strategic investments and role transitions are vital for long-term success. Financial Finesse: Use debt wisely, prioritize recruitment and marketing over equipment investments, and consider IRS preferences for accrual-basis accounting for high-revenue businesses.  
    Resources and Websites: 
    🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇
    Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series
    Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs
    LANDSCAPING BUSINESS
    How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16
    Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs
    Get Ballard: https://www.ballard-inc.com/
    Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget
    Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone
    Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower
    Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence

    • 1 hr 38 min
    Should You Start a 2nd Business and Run BOTH at the Same Time?

    Should You Start a 2nd Business and Run BOTH at the Same Time?

    In this episode of the Untrapped Podcast, host Keith Kalfas talks to Adam Sylvester, owner of Charlottesville Lawn Care and a successful gutter cleaning business in Virginia. They discuss the challenges and benefits of running multiple businesses, employee management, leadership styles, maintaining work-life balance, and the importance of working on the business rather than in it. Adam also shares valuable insights about becoming a better communicator and leader, focusing on personal development, and creating a simple, fulfilling life. They also highlight the role of Jobber software in streamlining business operations.
     
    "You don't get what you preach. You get what you tolerate."
     - Adam Sylvester
    Topics Covered:
    Adam Sylvester: From Lawn Care to Gutter Cleaning Success
    Starting and Scaling Two Separate Businesses
    Cultivating Leadership and Building a Positive Work Culture
    Effective Communication and Conflict Resolution
    Personal Development in Professional Growth
    Financial Management and Budgeting
    Leveraging Technology and Planning for Growth


    Key Takeaways 

    Assess Your Current Business: Ensure your existing business is running efficiently and has systems in place to operate smoothly without your constant supervision.
    Effective Time Management and Delegation: Successfully handling multiple businesses requires wise time allocation and trusting others to manage tasks that don’t need your direct oversight.
    Financial Preparedness: Ensure you have the necessary funds and a solid financial plan to support a new venture, and understand the financial risks involved.
    Anticipate Challenges: Be aware of potential challenges such as burnout and stretched resources, and prepare for these obstacles ahead of time.
    Recognize the Rewards: Multiple income streams, diversified investments, and increased market presence are some of the benefits of running two successful businesses.
    Personal Decision and Planning: The decision to start a second business is personal and requires thorough planning, assessment, and a willingness to take calculated risks.
    Stay Motivated: The satisfaction of achieving something few others attempt can be a powerful motivator. Keep dreaming big and stay open to new opportunities.
     
    Connect with Keith
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keithkalfas/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelandscapingemployeetrap
    Website: https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources
    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@keith-kalfas
     
    Resources and Websites: 
    🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇 
    Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series
    Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs
    LANDSCAPING BUSINESS 
    How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16
    Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs
    Get Ballard: https://www.ballard-inc.com/
    Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget
    Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone

    Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower
    Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence

    • 59 min
    12 Exact Steps To Scale Your Landscaping Business

    12 Exact Steps To Scale Your Landscaping Business

    Keith Kalfas, alongside guest Dan Plata of Blue Sky Services, explores critical aspects such as financial management, dividing personal and business finances, and the evolution of the owner's role during growth. It tackles the transition from hourly to commission-based employee compensation, demonstrating how it can boost productivity and align employee incentives with the business's success.
    This episode also highlights the significance of managing operational capacity, the financial and structural implications of business expansion, and practical tips on asset management. Furthermore, it addresses the importance of a strategic approach to marketing, recruitment, and maintaining quality over quantity as the business scales. The conversation provides a well-rounded perspective on achieving profitable and sustainable growth, balancing operational efficiency, and navigating the challenges inherent in expanding a service-oriented venture.
     
    " If you have the employees right now, your ceiling is unlimited, but if you don't have the employees, you can't go anywhere. You can't keep growing because there's nowhere to go with those phone calls."
     - Dan Plata
    Topics Covered:
    00:18 - Introducing Dan Plata: The Home Service CFO
     
    01:13 - Unlocking Financial Success: 5 Steps to Set Up Your Business
     
    15:17 - The Evolution of a Business Owner: From Start-Up to Scale-Up
     
    27:14 - Bookkeeping as a Foundation for Financial Clarity and Decision Making
     
    38:30 - The Magic Formula: Balancing Capacity and Demand
     
    44:01 - Strategies for Managing Business Growth
     
    47:41 - Understanding Business Expenses and Budgeting
     
    50:25 - Navigating the Inflection Point of Scaling
     
    01:22:52 - The Surprising Similarities Between Marketing and Hiring
     
    01:31:59 - Scaling Your Business: The Employee Factor
     
    01:44:14 - Navigating the Purgatory of Scaling Your Business
     
    01:55:28 - Commission vs. Hourly Pay: Optimizing Employee Productivity
     
    02:06:16 - Efficiency in Solo vs. Team Work: A Comparative Analysis
     
    02:20:17 - Investing in Assets and Equipment: Strategic Approaches
     
    02:30:16 - Navigating Tax Savings and Business Investments Wisely
     
    Key Takeaways 

    Recruiting Investment: Emphasizes the pivotal role of investing in recruiting, sharing a lesson learned about spending significantly more on recruitment the following year, demonstrating how it fuels business growth.
    Employee Value: Highlights the crucial role of employees in business success, stressing the need to prioritize hiring and retaining the right employees as they are the key to unlocking business scalability.
    Managing Employee Onboarding: Discusses the extensive process of managing employee onboarding, training, documentation, and compliance tasks as a full-time job that demands attention to detail and thoroughness in execution.
    Outsourcing Recruitment: Suggests the option of outsourcing recruitment to streamline the hiring process, ensuring that only qualified candidates are presented to optimize time and resources effectively.
    Scalability Challenges: Describes the challenges of scaling a business, from the initial investment in infrastructure to managing expanding costs, and the necessity of balancing revenue growth with escalating expenses.
    Impacts of Infrastructure Expansion: Explores the financial impacts of scaling infrastructure, touching on the trade-offs between revenue growth and increased operational costs, shedding light on the complexities of financial sustainability during business expansion.
    Net Profit Margins: Illustrates the fluctuations in net profit margins as the business scales, exemplifying how revenue growth may not always correlate with increased profitability due to escalating expenses and operational challenges.
    Business Evaluation: Advocates for continuous evaluation and adaptation in response to evolving business needs, emphasizing the iterative nature of assessing and

    • 2 hrs 43 min

Top Podcasts In Business

The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett
DOAC
The Money Show
Primedia Broadcasting
VT Podcast “Ideas That Matter”
Africa Podcast Network
A Bit of Optimism
iHeartPodcasts
BizNews Radio
BizNews
Investec Focus Radio SA
Investec

You Might Also Like

Fullerton Unfiltered
Brian Fullerton
Green Industry Podcast
Paul Jamison
The B&B Lawn Care Podcast
Blake Albertson
The Green Grind Podcast
Kaz
Growing Green Podcast
Jeremiah Jennings
LCR Media Podcast
Naylor Taliaferro