Nextra Presents...!: Recent Episodes
Grant Harrison
An in-depth look into Canada’s landscape and snow removal industry. Hosted by Grant Harrison, a 30-year veteran who has taken his vast knowledge and experience and built a successful coaching business in Nextra Consulting. Featuring one-on-one interviews with business owners, industry giants, national suppliers, innovators and support organizations. Learn business management lessons and strategies from some of the most professional companies in Canada.
There have been some recent changes at Nextra! In this episode, Grant and Marla share about those changes, and the circumstances that set the changes in motion. Then Grant speaks with Jake DeJong from PowerGroup Resources about their part in the changes and what the future holds for both PowerGroup and Nextra.
Episode Links:
Connect with Jake
519-865-2487
PowerGroup Resources
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On today's episode, our HR Director, Charolette Cascioli talks with Dave Hockley from Hockley’s Landscaping in Simcoe. Hockley’s brought in two temporary foreign workers this year and Dave shares what that experience has been like for him and for his company as well as the staffing struggles that led up to using the TFW program and what the benefits have been since. If you are at all curious of how the TFW program could help you're business and what to hear directly from another contractor, you have come to the right place.
Episode Notes:
Connect with Dave
519-909-0117
Hockley's Landscaping
Episode Sponsor – Bidwell Financial
Bidwell Financial website
James Fullerton phone: 416.906.3398
James Fullerton email
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
**On today's episode, we welcome back Wendy Ladd from Jim Pattison Lease. Wendy talks about the services JPL provides as well as gives us an update on the current vehicle market. She provides information on timelines and availability of new vehicles and outfitting, and then touches on what’s happening with electric vehicles as well as discounts available to contractors. We have Wendy on each year to give us all updates from the vehicle side of things and we love having her every time, enjoy!
Apologies for the slight audio dips throughout this episode, sometimes when we record virtually, zoom does not like to cooperate but we feel it did not take away from the content of Wendy & Grants great conversation**
Episode links:
Connect with Wendy
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Jim Pattison Lease
Website
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On today's episode, Grant speaks with Paul Vanderzon, a lifetime landscape/snow industry professional and mentor to many. Paul has spent his life working in and advocating for the snow removal industry and its associations. Grant and Paul discuss his experience, the changes he’s seen in the industry and the ones he feels still need to happen as well as the benefits of snow contractors being part of associations like SIMA. This interview was a treat to record as Paul is full of experience, industry knowledge, and passion and we know you'll love listening to it.
Episode Links
Metal Pless
SIMA
En pleine têmpete TV show (season 1, episode 1)
Project Snow Fighter episodes
Connect with Paul
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On today's episode, Grant talks with Ryan Quigley and Mitch Bursey from Storm Solutions made a transition to liquid brine in 2019 and they share how they made that transition, what was involved, and how they trained their staff. Storm Solutions Plus is their sales, service and parts business. They are the Canadian dealer for VSI by Boss and for MetalPless snow blades and they were excited to share their story!
Episode Links:
Connect with Ryan
Connect with Mitch
Storm Solutions Plus
Website
YouTube
705-775-7587
Other Links
VSI by Boss
MetalPless
Innovative Surface Solutions
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On Today's episode, Grant is joined by Brian Cotter. Brian is the president of Lloyd’s Grounds Management Professionals and Durham Artificial Grass. Brian and Grant talk about about his history in the landscape industry, his dual businesses, the growth of the artificial turf industry and about the company culture he and his leadership team have created. They also give some sage wisdom on investing in your company and your people by hiring consultants and being part of peer groups.
Unfortunately, there were some spots where Brian cuts out a bit due to connection, but it does not take away from the message being presented. Brian & Grant cover a lot of ground in this episode and we know you’ll appreciate all he has to share.
Episode Links:
Connect with Brian
905-263-2225
Lloyd’s Grounds Management Professionals
Website
YouTube
Durham Artificial Grass
Website
YouTube
Other Links
Jeffrey Scott
Jacki Hart
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
**Today we’re sharing a podcast from Landscape Ontario where Grant was the guest. Grant discusses what he will be teaching at the Waterloo Chapter events this fall, as well as touching on some current issues facing the industry like sales and staffing. Grant doesn't often get to be on the other side of the microphone so we are excited to share this with you!
Connect with Grant**
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
Landscape Ontario
Unlock Your Business Potential Education Series
Certified Landscape Horticulture Manager (CLHM) Program
Grant’s Bookshelf
Leaving a Legacy: Navigating Family Businesses Succession by David C. Bentall
With company culture as our theme this month, we thought we would bring back an interview Grant did a couple of years ago with Jim & Jenna Monk of Markham Property Services. Grant met Jim and Jenna a number of years ago and was impressed with their willingness to share their journey, their victories as well as their failures, and their wisdom in order to see the landscape industry become full of destination companies focusing on company culture. We loved this conversation then, and we love it even more now.
Episode Links
Markham Property Services
Website
647.493.2909
Connect with Jim
Connect with Jenna
Jim & Jenna’s Bookshelf
The Who Book by Geoff Smart and Randy Street
The Great Game of Businessby Jack Stack
The Five-Minute Journal
Other Links
ISO 9001 Snow Certification
SIMA
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On today's episode, we decided to stay close to home and invite Charolette Cascioli, Nextra's HR Director and Martin Horsman, one of our resident Business Coaches to talk to Grant about a "crucial" topic. No one likes difficult conversations. But they are necessary and they're important for the health of businesses, relationships and mental wellbeing. The book Crucial Conversations is designed to give you the tools to handle these conversations with confidence, care, and clarity, making it safe to talk about almost anything and be persuasive, not abrasive. Today, Grant talks to Charolette and Martin about the book, these tools, and the education Nextra has developed to teach these lessons in a practical way.
Episode links:
Crucial Conversations by Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler and Emily Gregory
Crucial Conversations VERY SHORT SURVEY
Connect with Charolette Cascioli
Connect with Martin Horsman
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On today's episode, Grant talks with Paul McCallum from Toro. Paul talks about his history in the landscape industry, how Toro's survived the pandemic (and grown!), and how they are positioning themselves and their products to address the needs of landscapers and homeowners in the future. He also shares the most recent additions to the Toro line up and some new products Toro is offering, including the improvements to today’s electric equipment.
Episode Links:
Toro
Website
YouTube
Connect with Paul
Phone: (905) 870-5045
Paul’s Bookshelf
Audible
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
Choosing a business management software can be overwhelming. We’re hoping to make that easier for you. In the first of a series of episodes focused on business management software for landscapers, Grant talks to Mark Bradley from Landscape Management Network (LMN). Mark and Grant discuss the origin of LMN and the solutions and efficiencies it offers to landscapers.
Episode links:
LMN
Website
Phone: 888-347-9864
Connect with Mark
Mark’s Links
The Flow Research Collective
The Art of the Impossible by Steven Kotler
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On this episode, Grant talks with Martin Tirado, the CEO of SIMA (Snow and Ice Management Association). They dive in and talk all about the snow industry - how Martin got involved, what SIMA is all about, the services and training they offer, as well as the future of the industry.
Episode Links:
SIMA
Website
CSP and ASM Training Programs
SIMA Symposium
Connect with Martin
Martin’s Links
Freakonomics Radio podcast
Freakonomics book
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
Episode Sponsor – Bidwell Financial
Bidwell Financial website
James Fullerton phone: 416.906.3398
James Fullerton email
Over the last couple of years, most landscapers haven’t had to work at sales. In fact, most have had trouble keeping up with the demand for work. The result is that we’ve been more like order-takers rather than salespeople. But as the economy starts to slow down a bit, it is important that we revert to being salespeople to ensure the continued growth of our business. Andrew Wall has been in sales for his entire professional life in sales, and he shares how to be effective salespeople.
**Episode Links:
Connect with Andrew**
905-691-4553
Website
Sandler Sales Training
Website
Andrew’s Bookshelf
The Road to Excellence by David Mattson
Selling to the Modern Buyer by David Mattson
Your Future Self Now by Dr. Benjamin Hardy
Think Again by Adam Grant
Podcasts
Re: Thinking with Adam Grant
Work Life with Adam Grant
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
On today's episode, Jordan sits down with James Fullerton of Bidwell Financial. James talks about how he got involved in the financing side of the industry and what types of vehicles and equipment his clients reach out to him for. James and Jordan dive into the short and long term effects of the pandemic on commercial vehicle & equipment purchasing, the current state of the used market and if the future might hold a light at the end of the financing tunnel for contractors. Looking for an inside perspective on vehicle shortages and buying in 2023? James has you covered!
Episode Links:
Bidwell Financial
Website
1-855-624-3935
Connect with James
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On today's episode, Jordan speaks with Raqib Omer from Viaesys Inc. Raqib shares the unlikely story of how he got involved with the snow and ice industry, how he started Viaesys and what's next for the innovative technology company. Raqib also discusses some of the biggest issues facing snow and ice removal contractors, the importance of training your staff, and some thoughts on the current and future states of salting/liquid de-icing. If you have anything to do with the snowy side of the landscaping industry, you will want to hear what Raqib has to say!
Episode Links:
ViaesysWebsite 1-844-VIAESYS
Connect with RaqibEmail
Connect with GrantEmail
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On today's episode, Jordan speaks with Joanna Philipps from ESOP Builders. Joanna shares her knowledge about ESOP (Employee Stock Option Plan), its goals and options, and the risks and benefits to both owners and employees. You will gain a strong understanding of an ESOP and if and how it would work for your company.
**Episode Links:
ESOP Builders**
Website
1-416-645-0512 or 1-877-995-3767
Connect with Joanna
647.881.8532
Joanna’s Bookshelf
The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday
Naruto by Masashi Kishimoto
Connect with Jordan
647-297-9354
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
Nextra Presents…! welcomes Lianna Desmarais from Plantscape Windsor. Liana talks about her introduction to the landscape industry, the resources she found so valuable in navigating her first few years, and how she’s grown the company. She also talks about gender bias and what it’s like to be a female landscape business owner in an industry that is male dominated.
Episode Links:
Plantscape Windsor
(519) 972-5440
Website
Connect with LianaEmail
Liana’s Bookshelf
Peer to Peer Network
Good to Great by Jim Collins
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On this episode, Grant speaks with Chris Penny of Lucrative Landscape about his humble beginnings in the landscape world and how he realized his talent for marketing and growth focused on small businesses. Chris talks about the Lucrative Landscape model, how it can benefit small business owners and the ideal contractor that he can really help.
Episode Links:
Lucrative Landscaping
Website
YouTube
Connect with Chris
Chris’s Bookshelf
Lucrative Landscaping by Chris Penny
How to Get Rich by Felix Dennis
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On this episode Jordan talks with Rob Murray of Intrigue Media about being more competitive by using your website and social media more effectively to position yourself for success. Rob is full of great information, and he delivers it in a way that is understandable for those of us who aren’t part of that world.
**Episode Links:
Intrigue Media
226-210-4276**
Website
Connect with Rob
Linked In
YouTube
Rob’s Bookshelf
Scaling Up by Verne Harnish
Predictable Revenue by Aaron Ross
From Impossible to Inevitable by Aaron Ross
The Third Industrial Revolution by Jeremy Rifkin
Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order by Ray Dalio
Connect with Jordan
647-297-9354
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
On our first episode of the year we wanted to talk about a part of the industry we have not touched on before... enter landscape lighting. Today Jordan talks with Scott Sim from Moon Glow Lightscapes about how he became involved in the lighting industry, the challenges he faces and the logistics and rhythm of the industry. He says, “irrigation is science, landscape lighting is art”. In the episode, you’ll hear how much he loves his art!
Episode Links:
Moonglow Lights
Website
Connect with Scott
519-532-0660
Scott’s Bookshelf
Nextra Presents…! podcast
Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller
The Pumpkin Plan by Michael Michalowicz
Traction by Gino Wickman
Connect with Jordan
647-297-9354
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
Lighting Peer Group
In this episode, Grant speaks with Lindsay Drake Nightingale. Lindsay owns Yorkshire Garden Services, who specializes in high end residential landscape maintenance and installations in Toronto and York Region. Today, Lindsay shares her experience and knowledge about business ownership, business growth, staffing, culture and networking.
Episode links:
Yorkshire Garden Services
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Connect with Lindsay
Email
Phone: 416-804-2212
Lindsay’s Bookshelf
The E-Myth by Michael Gerber
The 5 Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
LinkedIn
Twitter
Email
Nextra Consulting
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Irrigation Peer Group
Trevor Lively is the second-generation business owner of Blue Jay Irrigation, whose head office is in London. In this episode, he talks to Grant about the transition in leadership from his father to him, the things he’s learned, as well as the way he’s expanded the business.
Episode Links:
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Blue Jay Irrigation
Website
Connect with Trevor
Trevor’s Bookshelf
Traction by Gino Wickman
Visioneering by Andy Stanley
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
Irrigation Peer Group
On this episode, Grant talks with Jordan Smith from VSI about his history in the industry, the origin and development of VSI liquid brine sprayers, its recent purchase by Boss Snowplows, and the future of liquid de-icing in the snow industry.
Episode Links:
Smith Lawn and Landscape
Website
VSI
Website
Connect with Jordan
Jordan’s Bookshelf
Traction by Gino Wickman
Boss Snowplow
Website
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
In this episode, Grant talks to Ed Hansen from Hansen Lawn and Garden about a wide range of topics, from how Ed got into landscaping, to growing his business, to his chairing the Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging committee at Landscape Ontario. This episode just feels like a couple of friends chatting about life and work. And I know you’ll want to pull up a chair.
Episode Links:
Connect with Ed
Hansen Lawn & Garden
Website
Links
Landscape Ontario Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Committee
Imperfectly Kindby Julie Adam
Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
The Obstacle is the Way Ryan Holiday
Jackie Robinson: A biographyby Arnold Rampersad
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
It’s a great time to own a landscape business! Purchasing of landscape companies is on the rise as many larger companies and private equity firms recognize the value in well-run landscape operations. In this episode, Grant provides some information about how to make your company more appealing to potential buyers.
Episode Links:
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Nextra Consulting
Website
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Grant talks to Sam Bauman from Earthscape about the ESOP (Employee Stock Option Plan) program they’ve implemented and how it works. They also talk about the Traction program, which is also in place at Earthscape . It’s clear that Sam, like Grant, is a big fan of Traction!
Earthscape(519) 669-2972WebsiteInstagramFacebook
Connect with Sam
sam@earthscape.caLinkedIn
Sam’s BookshelfTraction by Gino WickmanA Stake in the Outcome by Jack StackGood to Great by Jim Collins
Other LinksESOP Builders websitePeer Groups
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398LinkedInTwitter grant@nextraconsulting.ca
Alex Cadieux from Techo-Bloc talks about the current state of the hardscape industry as well as the opportunities he sees in the next couple of years. He shares some excellent (and free!) resources that Techo-Bloc has recently developed.
**Episode Links:
Techo-Bloc Links**
Techo-Bloc website
Hardscaper.com
Hardscape Growth podcast
Contractor Showcase
Connect with Alex
Nextra Consulting
Website
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Today Grant talks with Jesse Savage, owner of Savage Gardens and freelance landscape designer. They discuss landscape design and how Jesse’s services can assist landscapers who do not have a designer on staff. They also discuss Nextra’s new peer group for landscape designers that will be led by Jesse. If landscape design is part of your business – or you wish it were – you’ll appreciate this episode.
Episode links:
Savage Gardens
Website
Houzz
Connect with Jesse
(905) 380-9587
Nextra Consulting
Designers Peer Group
Website
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Today our own HR director, Charolette Casioli, is taking over the role of host as she interviews Sally Harvey, Landscape Ontario’s Director of Education and Labour Development.
They discuss the biggest challenge facing contractors this year – the labour shortage. They talk about attracting, recruiting and retaining great staff. Sally shares resources available to contractors both through the government and through Landscape Ontario.
NOTE: this podcast was recorded in March of 2022. The information shares is current and accurate at that time. Government and LO programs and incentives are subject to change.
Sally Harvey – Episode Links:
Program Links
Employment Ontario Service Provider Network
Immigration Solutions/Foreign Worker Program
Landscape Ontario website
GROW Program
Apprenticeship Program
Landscape.Jobs website
Discover Green Careers website
GreenCareersCanada.ca
LO Professional Development program
Connect with Sally
Connect with Charolette
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Website
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Today’s guest is George Urvari from Oriole Landscaping. George has a unique way of looking at equipment purchasing and the investment that equipment can be. And considering the current labor shortage, equipment might be a great alternative to staffing – if you get the right equipment.
Episode Links:
Connect with George
416.696.5110 x 231
george@oriolelandscaping.com
www.oriolelandscaping.com
Connect with Grant
519.868.6398
Website
Episode Sponsor: Jim Pattison Lease
Wendy Ladd
416.417.5233
Wendy.ladd@jplease.com
Season 3 is here! This year, we’ll again be bringing you interviews with industry experts, innovators, suppliers, and business leaders. The singular goal of this podcast is to provide you with information and resources that will help you improve your business and encourage you along the way. We’re starting the year off by interviewing Grant to have him provide you with an update on the industry in general and Nextra in particular.
**Episode Links:
Connect with Grant**
Website
Joining us on the Podcast today is Nick Bohner. Nick is the president of NixSnow, a snow-removal company based in Stratford, Ontario focused solely on residential snow removal. Nick talks about his business model, developing his brand, expansion plans, and the future of the snow industry.
Disclaimer
While we have done our best to edit out and soften some of the audio errors, the audio on the guests side for this episode was not ideal. Audio misgivings that could not be fixed aside, we thought that Grants conversation with Nick was a must hear. We apologize for the audio quality in certain spots and hope you enjoy the episode!
Episode links:
Connect with Nick
Website
YouTube
Nick’s Bookshelf
The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Greene
The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
$100M Offers by Alex Hormozi
Your Next Five Moves by Patrick Bet-David
Zero to One by Peter Thiel with Blake Masters
Podcasts/YouTube
Valuetainment
Dirt Talk by BuildWitt
Gary Vee
Connect with Grant
Website
Frank Bourque is back! Frank is a fountain of knowledge regarding all things related to design/build business. In this episode, he gives us an update from the GIE show in Louisville, including introducing us to some new products and equipment and talks about the stages of business and how to scale your business effectively and profitably.
Frank Bourque – Episode Links:
Connect with Frank
Website
Design/Build Event in January
Connect with Grant
Website
With winter coming, what a perfect time to revisit one of our favorite episodes with an encore presentation of Brad Caton:
On this episode, Grant speaks with Brad Caton, the Founder of Invictus Professional Snowfighters, a leading snow and ice management company in the Pacific Northwest that is solely dedicated to snow and ice management. Brad shares his extensive industry knowledge, insight and experience. If snow removal is any part of your business, you’ll want to hear today’s episode.
Brad Caton Links
First in Snowby Brad Caton
CEO Coaching Program
The 40-Hour Work Year by Scott Fritz
The E-Myth by Michael Gerber
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
Invictus Snowfighters
Website
Technology
SiteFotos -field tracking app, allows crews to document their work with time- and location-stamped photos, while also offering site mapping, time tracking, document organization and more
Yeti Snow Management system – route planning, crew tracking, equipment inventory, record keeping and more
Connect with Grant
Website
Today on Nextra Presents..! Grant gives a “state of the industry” update including owner health, staffing, materials, equipment, and a temporary foreign workers pilot project, along with some encouragement and tips for getting through the rest of the season.
Episode Links:
Connect with Grant
Website
Nextra’s Chief Technology Officer, Jordan Robertson, joins Grant on the podcast today to talk about technology in our industry, why owners are hesitant to accept new technology, and the biggest hurdles they face when trying to implement new technology.
Jordan will introduce you to three technology suppliers: Easy Locates, Ready Chek and Viaesys. These suppliers provide exceptional products that will save you time and money and ensure accuracy and efficiency in your business.
Episode Links:
Viaesys
Website
Raqib Omer email
Ready Chek
Website
Michelle Graham email
Easy Locates
Website
Jeff Morris email
Links
Ted Talks
Connect with Grant
Website
Connect with Jordan
We’re talking to our very own HR Director, Charolette Cascioli about employees. She’ll share how expanding staff training opportunities, using automated solutions, and thinking creatively about wage and benefit options will help you secure great employees, as well as programs available to help you.
Episode Links:
Connect with Charolette
Connect with Grant
Website
One of the most common issues facing business owners is staffing – finding the right people and making sure they’re in the right role. Today Grant talks to Jason Taylor of Predictive Success. Predictive Success empowers leaders with the data and skills to maximize the investment in their people. If you have staff, you – and they - will benefit from today’s episode.
Episode Links:
Get Out of Your Own Way by Dave Hollis
The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy
Predictive Success website
Connect with Jason
Cell: 905-626-5253
Connect with Grant
Website
Today we’re talking about insurance.
If you’re a contractor, you’re probably already tensing up at the mention of insurance. Insurance premiums over the last number of years have skyrocketed and the way that claims are handled and managed by insurance companies is frustrating – even maddening at times.
Enter The Insurance Market and its Self-Insured Retention program. This is a unique, common-sense alternative to traditional insurance that gives you a say in how claims are dealt with. On today’s podcast, Mark Jackson from The Insurance Market explains the program and its benefits, how they handle claims and how they screen members. They know the snow industry and want to help contractors minimize their insurance costs and aggressively defend any claims.
Episode Links:
Connect with Mark
Phone: 905-686-0701 Ext. 202
The Insurance Market
Website
Connect with Grant
Website
Jacki Hart is back! As someone with her finger on the pulse of the industry, Jacki Hart’s insights, impressions, and perspective are worth listening to. This episode is no different. This is a sort of “state of the industry” address, where she speaks about the labor challenges and how we as industry leaders and business owners may need to change our perspective and attitude. Be prepared to be challenged. Her opinion and perspective is thoughtful and will make you think about your own.
**Episode Links:
Jacki Hart Links:**
Consulting by Hart
Business Skills Academy
Peer to Peer Network
Jacki Hart on LinkedIn
Jacki’s Bookshelf
Anything by Simon Sinek
Connect with Grant
Website
Today we welcome Chris, Jarred, Ryan, Joe and Gerald to the podcast. They are all contractors who have implemented liquid brine into their snow operations and share their experiences and insights about the product and process.
Episode links:
Connect with the Guests
Chris Thacker – Mr. Mow It All
Website
Jarred McKinley – Landscape Effects
Website
Ryan Johnson – Mountview Landscaping
Website
Joe Sell – Landmark Landscapes
Website
Gerald Van Varik – VMP Landscaping
Website
Connect with Grant
Website
On today’s episode, Grant talks with Chris Thacker, owner of Mr. Mow It All in downtown Toronto. Chris started mowing lawns at the age of 12 and has since grown that business into one that is a leader in residential and commercial urban property gardening, lawn mowing and snow removal. If you need some encouragement and inspiration, you’ll love today’s podcast.
Episode links:
Connect with Chris
Mr. Mow It All
Website
Chris’s Bookshelf
The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
Other Links
CitiTurf, Dallas, Texas - Jonathan Pototschnik
Connect with Grant
Website
Today Grant talks with Joel Beatson, the Executive Director of Landscape Alberta and Landscape Saskatchewan. Joel shares his industry experience and talks about what’s happening in their associations, as well as the landscape industry in the west in general.
**Episode Links:
Connect with Joel**
Landscape Alberta & Landscape Saskatchewan
Landscape Alberta website
Landscape Alberta Instagram
Landscape Alberta Facebook
Landscape Saskatchewan website
Landscape Saskatchewan Instagram
Landscape Saskatchewan Facebook
Other Websites
CNLA
Nursery & Landscape Association Executives
Joel’s Bookshelf
Lord of the Ringsby J.R.R. Tolkien
Radical Candor by Kim Scott
Connect with Grant
Website
The book we have recommended the most in the last year is, by far, Profit Works. It’s all about creating effective incentive programs. Grant describes it as the best book on incentive plans he’s ever read. We’ve given away many copies and even hosted an online book study on it. Today, one of the authors – Alex Freytag – is on the podcast talking about the book – what prompted him to write it, the anatomy and psychology of an effective incentive program, and the results of plans that have been implemented using his system.
Episode Links:
Connect with Alex
Profit Works
Website
Book
Books by Alex
Vision Works by Alex Freytag
Profit Works by Alex Freytag
Alex’s Bookshelf
Traction by Gino Wickman
Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman
Get a Grip by Gino Wickman
The Great Game of Business by Jack Stack
Radical Candor by Kim Scott
The Rise of Superman by Steven Kotler
The Art of the Impossible by Steven Kotler
All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy
Blood Meridian by Cormac McCa
“Landscape Ontario is a community for mutual benefit and mutual improvement. Who doesn’t want to be in that kind of community?”
- Tony DiGiovanni
On today’s episode, Grant speaks with Landscape Ontario Executive Director, Tony DiGiovanni. Tony is an industry giant if ever there was one. Even better is the fact that he is a humble man who simply seeks to serve others and encourage them in their work. We are honoured to have him on our podcast and expect that at the end, you’ll love him as much as we do.
Episode Links:
Landscape Ontario
Website
GROW program
COVID-19 Task Force
Connect with Tony
Tony’s Bookshelf
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
The Principle-Centered Leadership by Stephen R. Covey
The New Rules for Marketing and PR by David Meerman Scott
Other Links
Highway of Heroes Tree Campaign
Humber College Horticultural Science program
Connect with Grant
Website
Today Grant is talking with Ben Zlotnick, the founder of Eden App, a program he created to connect consumers who are looking for landscaping or snow removal services with contractors who can provide that service. It’s been built by contractors for contractors and it’s brilliant and revolutionary for both homeowners and contractors.
We love talking to creative, out-of-the-box thinkers creating products that solve problems we didn’t even know we had. Ben is one of those people.
Episode links:
Eden App
Website
Connect with Ben
Connect with Grant
Website
Need some inspiration? Listen to this episode. This is one of the most interesting and revolutionary episodes we’ve recorded. Constantine Grechko is leading the industry in the practice of giving back to his team and his community. In fact, his company is called Give Back Contracting. You will be encouraged, challenged and amazed at his perspective and business model.
Episode Links :
Give Back Contracting
Alberta website
British Columbia website
Connect with Constantine
Constantine’s Inspiration/Book Shelf
Joe Dispenza website
Tony Robbins website
The Leader Who Had No Title by Robin Sharma
The Go Giver by Bob Burg
Connect with Grant
Website
Grant’s LO podcast – Prevent Business Owner Burnout
Today we’re sharing an episode of the Landscape Ontario podcast from last month, in which Grant had the opportunity to talk about owner health. The purpose of this podcast is to encourage you to get and stay healthy in all aspects of your life – physically, mentally, emotionally, and relationally. We hope you’ll be encouraged by today’s episode.
Today we welcome Ryan Johnson of Mountview Landscaping and talk to him about the evolution of Mountview, continuing education, teaching your staff about business finances, staff retention, company culture and exit strategies. There’s a whole lot here today and you won’t want to miss it.
**Episode Links:
Connect with Ryan/Mountview**
Mountview website
Mountview Instagram
Ryan’s Bookshelf
Good to Great by Jim Collins
The Great Game of Business by Jack Stack
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
Other Links
Sandler Training
Landscape Ontario
Connect with Grant
Website
We are huge fans of Greenius and it’s probably our most recommended program. Greenius is a software platform that delivers general training and role-specific training. It also provides all regulatory training required by the government of Ontario. With Greenius, you can track, report and record all staff training, ensuring that your staff are confident, competent and safe.
On today’s podcast, Grant speaks with Arden Urbano, Greenius’ VP of Sales and Marketing. Arden has been with Greenius from the very beginning. She loves this industry and has a sincere desire to help contractors make the most of their biggest investment, their staff. Regardless of the size of your company, if you’re interested in growing you business, then Greenius is for you.
**Episode Links:
Arden’s Bookshelf**
The Art of Negotiation by Michael Wheeler
Unleash the Power Within by Tony Robbins
Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday
Tech Recommendation
Slack – internal messaging and file sharing program
Connect with Arden
877-482-2323 Ext 108
Greenius
Website
Connect with Grant
Website
Insurance is a necessity but understanding what you need and how much you need can be confusing and frustrating. Not any longer! Today Grant talks to Kyle O’Brien from Hub International Insurance, a 20-year insurance industry veteran, specializing in providing insurance to landscape construction, maintenance, arborist and snow removal companies.
Episode Links:
Connect with Kyle O’Brien
Office: 905-948-2432
Mobile: 647-273-5530
Toll-free: 800-328-7887
Hub International: https://www.hubinternational.com/en-CA/
Connect with Grant
Website
Jim & Jenna Monk’s Markham Property Services is one of the premier companies for building culture. People want to work for them and once hired, they don’t want to leave! On today’s episode, Jim and Jenna share their journey to creating a great culture and provide insight on how you can improve your own.
Episode Links:
Markham Property Services
Website
647.493.2909
Connect with Jim
Connect with Jenna
Jim & Jenna’s Bookshelf
The Who Book by Geoff Smart and Randy Street
The Great Game of Businessby Jack Stack
The Five-Minute Journal
Other Links
ISO 9001 Snow Certification
SIMA
Connect with Grant
Website
We’re talking about mental health on today’s episode. This is a topic that has come up time and time again during the last year. We’ve decided to devote this episode to providing some simple tips on helping us all be healthier during these uncommon – can we just call them weird? - days. We hope you’ll find today’s podcast to be helpful and encouraging.
Podcast Links:
Connect with Grant
Website
Ryan Hebel – Green Ventures
On today’s episode of Nextra Presents…! Grant talks to Ryan Hebel of Green Ventures. Ryan is going to be one of the speakers at our ICE event on February 9 where the focus will be electric equipment. Ryan’s father started Green Ventures in 2013 and Ryan joined him as a partner in 2015, when they started implementing electric equipment, beginning with hedge trimmers. In 2016, they implemented their first fully electric crew and have been increasing their electric equipment and decreasing their carbon footprint ever since. If you’re interested in adding electric equipment to your operation, you’ll really benefit from today’s episode.
Podcast Links:
Connect with Ryan
519.575.5689
Ryan’s Recommended Podcasts
The Motley Fool
The School of Greatness
How I Built This
EntreLeadership
Ryan’s Bookshelf
The Pumpkin Plan
The New Dad’s Playbook
Green Ventures Landscape Care
519.571.7888
Website
Connect with Grant
Website
Meet the new Executive Deputy Director of Landscape Ontario. Joe shares his history in the industry as well as his vision for the future of landscaping in Ontario.
Disclaimer
Joe Salemi was one of the first guests Nextra Presents!.. had on the podcast and because we were new to recording, had some "thumps" behind Joe's vocals. Unfortunately the audio errors were not fixable in the editing stage. The team at Nextra Presents!.. apologize for this hiccup as we strive to post the best quality content possible for our listeners. That said, we feel the episode is full of great conversation and wanted everyone to be able to hear it. Please see below for episode links.
Episode 16 Links
Connect with Joe
Website: www.horttrades.com
Email: jsalemi@landscapeontario.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/salemijoe/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joesalemi/
Links
Canadian Nursery and Landscape Association: https://cnla.ca/
DynaScape: www.dynascape.com/
Landscape Ontario: landscapeontario.com/
The Leadership Contract by Vince Molinaro: theleadershipcontract.com/
Joe Salemi: linkedin.com/in/joesalemi
Connect with Grant
Website: www.nextraconsulting.ca
Email: grant@nextraconsulting.ca
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nextraconsulting
Instagram: www.instagram.com/nextraconsulting/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/grant-harrison/
Twitter: @grantharrison75
Having excellent legal advice can save you time, money…even your business. Grant speaks with Shayna Beeksma about how proper legal contracts and advice can protect yourself, your company, and your future. Shayna is a lawyer who understands our industry and is focused on small business owners. This episode can save you a lot of headaches in the future.
Episode Links:
Connect with Shayna
Phone: 905.522.1234
Website
Connect with Grant
Website
Hello again, friends. If you’ve been following us on social media at all, you’re probably aware of the new program we’ve rolled out called the Nextra Network.
On today’s episode, we’re switching things up and I will be interviewing Grant about the Nextra Network, what prompted him to start it and how it will benefit business owners. You’ll also hear a little bit about our story. It’ll be like you’re sitting in our living room!
We are so excited to share the Nextra Network program with you – so let’s get started!
**Episode Links:
Books:**Buidling a StoryBrand by Donald Miller
Connect with Grant
Website
Truck specialist, Wendy Ladd from Jim Pattison Lease talks all about vehicle leasing and fleet management. She shares how to get the most out of your fleet, how to know when it’s time to sell, and how having her on your side will save you time, money and stress.
Episode Links :
Connect with Wendy
Cell: 416.417.5233
Jim Pattison Companies
The Jim Pattison Group
Jim Pattison Lease
Books
Good to Great by Jim Collins
No Matter What! by Lisa Nichols
The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
Connect with Grant
Website
Today Grant talks to Jay Murray from TLC Landscaping Design & Pools in London about working with a business partner, knowing your numbers, engaging your employees and giving back to the community. Jay is knowledgeable, educational and inspiring. You’ll be glad you took the time to listen.
Episode Links:
Connect with Jay
Linked In
TLC Landscaping Design + Pools
Resources
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel Pink
Simon Sinek
The Globe and Mail News
The One Page Strategic Plan (OPSP) by Verne Harnish
Sandler Sales Training
Indwell: Hope and Homes for All
Connect with Grant
Website
At our I.C.E event last month, we had Pierre-Marc Laforest from Reliable Care Landscaping share his experience and knowledge about liquid brine. Pierre Marc transitioned his snow operation from rock salt to 100% liquids about 4 years ago. In this podcast, Pierre-Marc discusses acquisitions, good financials, the importance of teamwork and of course, liquid de-icing. This is a discussion that should interest anyone involved in snow operations. The industry is moving toward using more liquids and Pierre-Marc is a wealth of information and experience in making that transition.
**EPISODE LINKS:
Pierre-Marc Laforest :**
pm@equipnorth.com
416-285-5574 X101
Reliable Care Premium Landscapes website
Podcasts:
John Maxwell Leadership Podcast
Jeffrey Scott’s podcast
Nextra Presents…! podcast
Books:
WTF?! Willing to Fail by Brian Scudamore
The 40-Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss
Connect with Grant:
Website
On this episode, Grant talks to Jason and Denise Gervais from Web ROI, a digital marketing agency based in Milton. They share information and tips on hiring a marketing firm, on building a social media presence, on getting traffic to your website, and on how to successfully work with your spouse. We know you’ll benefit from what they have to share.
Episode Links
Connect with Jason & Denise
Jason Gervais – Linked In
Jason Gervais - Email
Denise Gervais – Linked In
Denise Gervais - Email
WebROI
Resources
WSI Network
Traction by Gino Wickman
Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
Mastering the Rockefeller Habits by Verne Harnish
Scaling Up by Verne Harnish
Entrepreneurs’ Organization
Profit First for Contractors by Shawn Van Dyke
Connect with Grant
Website
On this episode, Grant speaks with Brad Caton, the Founder of Invictus Professional Snowfighters, a leading snow and ice management company in the Pacific Northwest that is solely dedicated to snow and ice management. Brad shares his extensive industry knowledge, insight and experience. If snow removal is any part of your business, you’ll want to hear today’s episode.
Brad Caton Links
First in Snowby Brad Caton
CEO Coaching Program
The 40-Hour Work Year by Scott Fritz
The E-Myth by Michael Gerber
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
Invictus Snowfighters
Website
Technology
SiteFotos -field tracking app, allows crews to document their work with time- and location-stamped photos, while also offering site mapping, time tracking, document organization and more
Yeti Snow Management system – route planning, crew tracking, equipment inventory, record keeping and more
Connect with Grant
Website
Frank Bourque is a hardscape professional, speaker, writer, consultant and entrepreneur with an extensive background in business. He is knowledgeable, honest, passionate and genuinely wants to help contractors be better. You’re gonna love Frank.
Connect with Frank Bourque
Frankbourque.com
Discount for our listeners: Frankbouque.com/specialoffer
App: Calendly – Free online appointment scheduling software
App: 4 o’Clock Four by LMN (Landscape Management Network)
Book: Good to Great by Jim Collins
Connect with Grant
Website
Jim Landry is the Executive Director of Landscape New Brunswick/Prince Edward Island. He shares how the landscape industry in the east is faring through COVID-19 and how being part of the association benefits the whole industry.
Links
On the Road by Jack Carovacks
Dawdling on the Danube by Edward Enfield
Jim Landry
Email - Jim Landry
Website: Landscape New Brunswick/PEI
Connect with Grant
Website
One of the most common issues facing business owners is staffing – finding the right people and making sure they’re in the right role. Today Grant talks to Jason Taylor of Predictive Success. Predictive Success empowers leaders with the data and skills to maximize the investment in their people. If you have staff, you – and they -will benefit from today’s episode.
Links
Get Out of Your Own Way by Dave Hollis
The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy
Predictive Success website
Jason Taylor
Cell: 905-626-5253
Connect with Grant
Website
If talking equipment gets your motor running, then fasten your seat belt! Greg & Mack introduce the features and benefits of the Merlo telehandler and how it can help you do more, faster.
Disclaimer
Due to the busy nature of our businesses, Grant, Greg and Mack were not able to be in the most ideal environments for recording this episode resulting in some audio errors that were not fixable in the editing stage. The team at Nextra Presents!.. apologize for this hiccup and have made adjustments to the recording format of future episodes as we strive to post the best quality content possible for our listeners. Please see below for episode links.
Greg Scott, Territory Manager
Cell: 226-752-8440
Instragram
Mackenzie Kotack, Territory Manager
Cell: 289-527-2751
Selling from the Heart by Larry Levine
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Manulift website
Connect with Grant
Website
Gavin heads up the subcontractor program at Landscape Effects. Hear his story and how they’ve grown their subcontractor partners to over 500.
We’d love for you to rate and review our podcast. Show notes can be found on our website here.
Episode Links:
Gavin MacDougall: LinkedIn
Gavin MacDougall: Email
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Landscape Effects Group
Connect with Grant
Website
Andrew Wall talks all about sales today. He’s got of ton of experience and insight for landscape contractors. Grab a pen for this episode.
We’d love it if you would rate and review our podcast. Show notes can be found on our website here.
Episode Links:
Andrew Wall Links:
Phone: 905-691-4553
Sandler Training
Recommended Reading:
Verne Harnish – Mastering the Rockefeller Habits, followed by Scaling Up
Gino Wickman – Traction
David Mattson – The Road to Excellence
Paul Jarvis - Company of One
David Sandler - You Can't Teach a Kid to Ride a Bike at a Seminar
Connect with Grant
Website
Paul St. Pierre is a wealth of experience and energy. Hear how he grew his company from a single lawn tractor to a multi-million-dollar group of companies. You’ll be inspired!
We’d love it if you would rate and review our podcast. Show notes can be found on our website here.
Paul’s Links:
Landscape Effects
Rochester Place Golf Course
Innovative Lifescapes
LFX Supply Centre
Connect with Grant
Website
Jacki will encourage you. She’s a coach with Hart (see what we did there?!) Here’s the bottom line: you’re not alone. Whatever you’re dealing with, help is available.
We’d love it if you would rate and review our podcast. Show notes can be found on our website here.
Episode Links:
Jacki Hart Links:
Consulting by Hart
Business Skills Academy
Peer to Peer Network
Jacki Hart on LinkedIn
Connect with Grant
Website
Grant Harrison is the host of Nextra Presents…! He’s spent 30 years in the landscape industry. In this episode, you’ll get to know him a little better.
We’d love it if you would rate and review our podcast. Show notes can be found on our website here.
Connect with Grant
Website