Pest Empire Builder https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8 en-us Matt Williams The Pest Empire Builder is where pest control professionals come to level up; not just in business, but in mindset, leadership, and legacy. If you’re a pest control company owner who is growing, scaling and refining through your team, this show is your roadmap to time and financial freedom. We'll dive deep into high performing teams, sales, service, operations, a powerful business structure that leads to rapid growth. Every episode is designed to help you stop working in the business and start building a business that works for you. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/225bcc48-eb49-11f0-b1cc-f7e44b0002b0/image/2ac024260330d5be5f2e86c5c63a0853.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress Pest Empire Builder https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8 no episodic Matt Williams The Pest Empire Builder is where pest control professionals come to level up; not just in business, but in mindset, leadership, and legacy. If you’re a pest control company owner who is growing, scaling and refining through your team, this show is your roadmap to time and financial freedom. We'll dive deep into high performing teams, sales, service, operations, a powerful business structure that leads to rapid growth. Every episode is designed to help you stop working in the business and start building a business that works for you. Matt Williams menofinfluence@mail.com How to Build a Pest Control Business That Runs Without You Most pest control owners start their business because they want freedom, more income, and control over their future, but many end up trapped in daily operations, technician work, scheduling, customer follow-up, hiring, and constant problem-solving. In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, Matt Williams sits down with Chad Moreschi from GorillaDesk to talk about how a family pest control company went from paper note cards and manual scheduling to a systemized, automated, lifestyle business. Chad shares how his parents started the company, how GorillaDesk was born out of a real need inside their own pest control business, and what it takes to build systems that allow an owner to step back. If you are a pest control owner trying to grow, improve your CRM, delegate better, understand your numbers, hire stronger technicians, or build a sellable business that does not depend on you every day, this conversation is packed with practical lessons. You’ll learn: → Why a CRM is more than just software, it can become the backbone of your pest control operation when used correctly  → Why many pest control owners get stuck using their bank account instead of a real P&L → Why delegating responsibility without authority creates bottlenecks → How clear goals help you build a business that actually serves your life.  → More on hiring, technician retention, automation, lifestyle businesses, mastermind groups, and the mindset shift from being a business doer to becoming a true business owner. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email: support@pestempirebuilder.com Website: www.pestempirebuilder.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 30 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0000 full Matt Williams Most pest control owners start their business because they want freedom, more income, and control over their future, but many end up trapped in daily operations, technician work, scheduling, customer follow-up, hiring, and constant problem-solving. In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, Matt Williams sits down with Chad Moreschi from GorillaDesk to talk about how a family pest control company went from paper note cards and manual scheduling to a systemized, automated, lifestyle business. Chad shares how his parents started the company, how GorillaDesk was born out of a real need inside their own pest control business, and what it takes to build systems that allow an owner to step back. If you are a pest control owner trying to grow, improve your CRM, delegate better, understand your numbers, hire stronger technicians, or build a sellable business that does not depend on you every day, this conversation is packed with practical lessons. You’ll learn: → Why a CRM is more than just software, it can become the backbone of your pest control operation when used correctly  → Why many pest control owners get stuck using their bank account instead of a real P&L → Why delegating responsibility without authority creates bottlenecks → How clear goals help you build a business that actually serves your life.  → More on hiring, technician retention, automation, lifestyle businesses, mastermind groups, and the mindset shift from being a business doer to becoming a true business owner. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email: support@pestempirebuilder.com Website: www.pestempirebuilder.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Most pest control owners start their business because they want freedom, more income, and control over their future, but many end up trapped in daily operations, technician work, scheduling, customer follow-up, hiring, and constant problem-solving. In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, Matt Williams sits down with Chad Moreschi from GorillaDesk to talk about how a family pest control company went from paper note cards and manual scheduling to a systemized, automated, lifestyle business.

Chad shares how his parents started the company, how GorillaDesk was born out of a real need inside their own pest control business, and what it takes to build systems that allow an owner to step back. If you are a pest control owner trying to grow, improve your CRM, delegate better, understand your numbers, hire stronger technicians, or build a sellable business that does not depend on you every day, this conversation is packed with practical lessons.

You’ll learn:

→ Why a CRM is more than just software, it can become the backbone of your pest control operation when used correctly 

→ Why many pest control owners get stuck using their bank account instead of a real P&L

→ Why delegating responsibility without authority creates bottlenecks

→ How clear goals help you build a business that actually serves your life. 

→ More on hiring, technician retention, automation, lifestyle businesses, mastermind groups, and the mindset shift from being a business doer to becoming a true business owner.

Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email: support@pestempirebuilder.com

Website: www.pestempirebuilder.com


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2867 How to Structure Your Business to Protect Everything You’ve Built If you are growing a pest control company, home service business, or any small business with multiple moving parts, this episode will show you how to build a corporate structure that protects your assets, reduces risk, and helps you scale with confidence.  We break down LLCs, holding companies, employee leasing companies, asset protection, tax strategy, and business entity structure in simple language so you can understand how smart business owners set up their companies for growth. If you have ever wondered how to separate liability, avoid commingling funds, protect your fleet, structure multiple businesses, or prepare your company for a future sale, this conversation is for you. We also talk about real-world business losses, legal partitions, bookkeeping discipline, chart of accounts strategy, owner benefits, and why setting up your corporate structure correctly on the front end can save you from massive headaches later.  Whether you run pest control, home inspections, real estate, construction, or another service business, this episode gives you practical insight into business growth, risk management, tax planning, and long-term wealth building through smart company setup. We Explore: → Why separating businesses by risk can protect your assets when one company runs into trouble.  → A real story about losing $250,000 on a gym and how the right LLC structure limited the damage.  → How holding companies, separate bank accounts, and clean operating agreements can help you scale more safely.  → Business valuation, owner perks, and why messy books can hurt you when it is time to sell. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 02 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0000 full Matt Williams If you are growing a pest control company, home service business, or any small business with multiple moving parts, this episode will show you how to build a corporate structure that protects your assets, reduces risk, and helps you scale with confidence.  We break down LLCs, holding companies, employee leasing companies, asset protection, tax strategy, and business entity structure in simple language so you can understand how smart business owners set up their companies for growth. If you have ever wondered how to separate liability, avoid commingling funds, protect your fleet, structure multiple businesses, or prepare your company for a future sale, this conversation is for you. We also talk about real-world business losses, legal partitions, bookkeeping discipline, chart of accounts strategy, owner benefits, and why setting up your corporate structure correctly on the front end can save you from massive headaches later.  Whether you run pest control, home inspections, real estate, construction, or another service business, this episode gives you practical insight into business growth, risk management, tax planning, and long-term wealth building through smart company setup. We Explore: → Why separating businesses by risk can protect your assets when one company runs into trouble.  → A real story about losing $250,000 on a gym and how the right LLC structure limited the damage.  → How holding companies, separate bank accounts, and clean operating agreements can help you scale more safely.  → Business valuation, owner perks, and why messy books can hurt you when it is time to sell. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices If you are growing a pest control company, home service business, or any small business with multiple moving parts, this episode will show you how to build a corporate structure that protects your assets, reduces risk, and helps you scale with confidence. 

We break down LLCs, holding companies, employee leasing companies, asset protection, tax strategy, and business entity structure in simple language so you can understand how smart business owners set up their companies for growth. If you have ever wondered how to separate liability, avoid commingling funds, protect your fleet, structure multiple businesses, or prepare your company for a future sale, this conversation is for you. We also talk about real-world business losses, legal partitions, bookkeeping discipline, chart of accounts strategy, owner benefits, and why setting up your corporate structure correctly on the front end can save you from massive headaches later. 

Whether you run pest control, home inspections, real estate, construction, or another service business, this episode gives you practical insight into business growth, risk management, tax planning, and long-term wealth building through smart company setup.


We Explore:

→ Why separating businesses by risk can protect your assets when one company runs into trouble. 

→ A real story about losing $250,000 on a gym and how the right LLC structure limited the damage. 

→ How holding companies, separate bank accounts, and clean operating agreements can help you scale more safely. 

→ Business valuation, owner perks, and why messy books can hurt you when it is time to sell.


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email
Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 3382 How He Built a 50-Truck Pest Control Business in Hawaii How do you build a 50-truck pest control company in Hawaii while creating a business that gives you freedom, stability, and room to grow? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder podcast, Matt sits down with John from Hawaii to unpack how he scaled his pest control business from a slow early grind to a 12 million dollar operation serving the islands.  If you own a pest control company, home service business, or you are trying to grow past the first million in revenue, this conversation is packed with real lessons on scaling, leadership, recurring revenue, employee retention, acquisitions, expansion, and building a company that lasts. John shares what makes the Hawaii pest control market different, how he approached growth across multiple islands, why recurring revenue is the backbone of a valuable service business, and what changed as he moved from owner-operator to true business builder.  This episode is especially valuable for pest control owners who feel stuck, want to improve their team, or are trying to figure out how to break through the next stage of growth without losing their lifestyle in the process. In this episode, you’ll hear  → How John used long-term thinking to grow steadily and why the first million dollars in pest control can feel like the hardest milestone to reach. → How joining industry peer groups changed the speed of his growth, what it looks like to expand into different markets with different customer mindsets, and why hiring stronger managers before you feel ready can transform your company.  → How he is shifting technicians from hourly pay to production pay, how he ties performance to standards like attendance and punctuality, and why great culture and better compensation are critical for keeping top employees in home services.  The conversation also touches on acquisitions, local branding, California expansion, termite-heavy markets, and how owners can create a business that is both profitable and enjoyable to run. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email: support@pestempirebuilder.comWebsite: www.pestempirebuilder.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 26 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000 full Matt Williams How do you build a 50-truck pest control company in Hawaii while creating a business that gives you freedom, stability, and room to grow? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder podcast, Matt sits down with John from Hawaii to unpack how he scaled his pest control business from a slow early grind to a 12 million dollar operation serving the islands.  If you own a pest control company, home service business, or you are trying to grow past the first million in revenue, this conversation is packed with real lessons on scaling, leadership, recurring revenue, employee retention, acquisitions, expansion, and building a company that lasts. John shares what makes the Hawaii pest control market different, how he approached growth across multiple islands, why recurring revenue is the backbone of a valuable service business, and what changed as he moved from owner-operator to true business builder.  This episode is especially valuable for pest control owners who feel stuck, want to improve their team, or are trying to figure out how to break through the next stage of growth without losing their lifestyle in the process. In this episode, you’ll hear  → How John used long-term thinking to grow steadily and why the first million dollars in pest control can feel like the hardest milestone to reach. → How joining industry peer groups changed the speed of his growth, what it looks like to expand into different markets with different customer mindsets, and why hiring stronger managers before you feel ready can transform your company.  → How he is shifting technicians from hourly pay to production pay, how he ties performance to standards like attendance and punctuality, and why great culture and better compensation are critical for keeping top employees in home services.  The conversation also touches on acquisitions, local branding, California expansion, termite-heavy markets, and how owners can create a business that is both profitable and enjoyable to run. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email: support@pestempirebuilder.comWebsite: www.pestempirebuilder.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices How do you build a 50-truck pest control company in Hawaii while creating a business that gives you freedom, stability, and room to grow? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder podcast, Matt sits down with John from Hawaii to unpack how he scaled his pest control business from a slow early grind to a 12 million dollar operation serving the islands. 

If you own a pest control company, home service business, or you are trying to grow past the first million in revenue, this conversation is packed with real lessons on scaling, leadership, recurring revenue, employee retention, acquisitions, expansion, and building a company that lasts. John shares what makes the Hawaii pest control market different, how he approached growth across multiple islands, why recurring revenue is the backbone of a valuable service business, and what changed as he moved from owner-operator to true business builder. 

This episode is especially valuable for pest control owners who feel stuck, want to improve their team, or are trying to figure out how to break through the next stage of growth without losing their lifestyle in the process.


In this episode, you’ll hear 

→ How John used long-term thinking to grow steadily and why the first million dollars in pest control can feel like the hardest milestone to reach.

→ How joining industry peer groups changed the speed of his growth, what it looks like to expand into different markets with different customer mindsets, and why hiring stronger managers before you feel ready can transform your company. 

→ How he is shifting technicians from hourly pay to production pay, how he ties performance to standards like attendance and punctuality, and why great culture and better compensation are critical for keeping top employees in home services. 


The conversation also touches on acquisitions, local branding, California expansion, termite-heavy markets, and how owners can create a business that is both profitable and enjoyable to run.


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email: support@pestempirebuilder.com
Website: www.pestempirebuilder.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 3204 The Sales Flow That Helped Build a $2.5B Company If your pest control sales process feels inconsistent, hard to scale, or full of canceled deals, this episode will help you fix it. In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, Matt Williams sits down with Lenny Gray to unpack high level sales strategies, sales flow process design, door to door sales principles, objection handling, closing techniques, and the real reason many pest control companies lose deals after the customer already says yes.  This episode is for pest control owners, sales leaders, managers, and reps who want a better way to close more business, reduce attrition, build a repeatable sales system, and create long term success without losing sight of faith, family, and legacy. Lenny shares how his six step sales flow works across pest control, phone sales, direct sales, and even business to business environments, including lessons connected to a company that grew into a $2.5 billion business.  If you want to improve your sales process, train your reps better, increase conversions, and build a business that supports the life you actually want, this episode is packed with practical insight and bigger purpose. You’ll Learn: → How Lenny structures the first 20 to 30 seconds of a sales conversation to create trust and momentum.  → How to qualify prospects faster so your team stops wasting time on people who are not ready to buy.  → How to build value before revealing price, how to close more effectively, and how to handle objections without sounding pushy or scripted.  → The importance of solidifying the sale after the close so fewer customers cancel before service starts.  On top of the sales training, this episode also explores leadership, parenting, generosity, legacy, money mindset, and why success means more than just top line revenue. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 19 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000 full 1 18 Matt Williams If your pest control sales process feels inconsistent, hard to scale, or full of canceled deals, this episode will help you fix it. In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, Matt Williams sits down with Lenny Gray to unpack high level sales strategies, sales flow process design, door to door sales principles, objection handling, closing techniques, and the real reason many pest control companies lose deals after the customer already says yes.  This episode is for pest control owners, sales leaders, managers, and reps who want a better way to close more business, reduce attrition, build a repeatable sales system, and create long term success without losing sight of faith, family, and legacy. Lenny shares how his six step sales flow works across pest control, phone sales, direct sales, and even business to business environments, including lessons connected to a company that grew into a $2.5 billion business.  If you want to improve your sales process, train your reps better, increase conversions, and build a business that supports the life you actually want, this episode is packed with practical insight and bigger purpose. You’ll Learn: → How Lenny structures the first 20 to 30 seconds of a sales conversation to create trust and momentum.  → How to qualify prospects faster so your team stops wasting time on people who are not ready to buy.  → How to build value before revealing price, how to close more effectively, and how to handle objections without sounding pushy or scripted.  → The importance of solidifying the sale after the close so fewer customers cancel before service starts.  On top of the sales training, this episode also explores leadership, parenting, generosity, legacy, money mindset, and why success means more than just top line revenue. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices If your pest control sales process feels inconsistent, hard to scale, or full of canceled deals, this episode will help you fix it. In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, Matt Williams sits down with Lenny Gray to unpack high level sales strategies, sales flow process design, door to door sales principles, objection handling, closing techniques, and the real reason many pest control companies lose deals after the customer already says yes. 

This episode is for pest control owners, sales leaders, managers, and reps who want a better way to close more business, reduce attrition, build a repeatable sales system, and create long term success without losing sight of faith, family, and legacy. Lenny shares how his six step sales flow works across pest control, phone sales, direct sales, and even business to business environments, including lessons connected to a company that grew into a $2.5 billion business. 

If you want to improve your sales process, train your reps better, increase conversions, and build a business that supports the life you actually want, this episode is packed with practical insight and bigger purpose.


You’ll Learn:

→ How Lenny structures the first 20 to 30 seconds of a sales conversation to create trust and momentum. 

→ How to qualify prospects faster so your team stops wasting time on people who are not ready to buy. 

→ How to build value before revealing price, how to close more effectively, and how to handle objections without sounding pushy or scripted. 

→ The importance of solidifying the sale after the close so fewer customers cancel before service starts. 

On top of the sales training, this episode also explores leadership, parenting, generosity, legacy, money mindset, and why success means more than just top line revenue.


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email
Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2804 Build a Door-to-Door Team In-House (Without Outsourcing) If you’ve ever thought, “Door-to-door could grow my pest control business… but I don’t want to hire some expensive outside sales crew,” this episode is for you.  In this Pest Empire Builder Podcast episode, Matt sits down with Lenny Gray to break down how to build an in-house door-to-door sales team that actually works, without chaos, burnout, or wasted payroll. Lenny shares what most pest control owners get wrong when they try to “go all-in” too fast, why outsourcing door-to-door teams often fails, and how to set up your door-to-door program so you can scale profitably. You’ll learn how to recruit the right reps, how many people to hire (and why attrition is normal), what training must exist before your reps knock a single door, and the exact door-to-door KPIs that predict sales success.  If you’re battling rising PPC costs, expensive lead generation, and inconsistent growth, door-to-door can be your smartest lever, especially because it builds route density, reduces windshield time, and creates faster, more controllable customer acquisition in pest control. Highlights: → You’ll learn why starting with 5–8 reps is smarter than trying to manage 20 your first year, and how to reverse-engineer hiring based on a realistic revenue target per rep.  → You’ll hear Lenny’s “Law of 600” framework for new reps, why early struggles are normal and how consistency creates skill breakthroughs.  → You’ll get the most important door-to-door metrics to track, including knock-to-talk ratio, contacts per hour, qualifying ratio, closing ratio, and cancellation rates before and after the first service.  → You’ll also learn Lenny’s four-pronged recruiting system (personal network, social ads, off-campus, and on-campus recruiting) and why door-to-door can outperform digital marketing by building route density and lowering operational costs. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email: support@pestempirebuilder.com Website: www.pestempirebuilder.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 12 Feb 2026 14:43:00 -0000 full 1 17 Matt Williams If you’ve ever thought, “Door-to-door could grow my pest control business… but I don’t want to hire some expensive outside sales crew,” this episode is for you.  In this Pest Empire Builder Podcast episode, Matt sits down with Lenny Gray to break down how to build an in-house door-to-door sales team that actually works, without chaos, burnout, or wasted payroll. Lenny shares what most pest control owners get wrong when they try to “go all-in” too fast, why outsourcing door-to-door teams often fails, and how to set up your door-to-door program so you can scale profitably. You’ll learn how to recruit the right reps, how many people to hire (and why attrition is normal), what training must exist before your reps knock a single door, and the exact door-to-door KPIs that predict sales success.  If you’re battling rising PPC costs, expensive lead generation, and inconsistent growth, door-to-door can be your smartest lever, especially because it builds route density, reduces windshield time, and creates faster, more controllable customer acquisition in pest control. Highlights: → You’ll learn why starting with 5–8 reps is smarter than trying to manage 20 your first year, and how to reverse-engineer hiring based on a realistic revenue target per rep.  → You’ll hear Lenny’s “Law of 600” framework for new reps, why early struggles are normal and how consistency creates skill breakthroughs.  → You’ll get the most important door-to-door metrics to track, including knock-to-talk ratio, contacts per hour, qualifying ratio, closing ratio, and cancellation rates before and after the first service.  → You’ll also learn Lenny’s four-pronged recruiting system (personal network, social ads, off-campus, and on-campus recruiting) and why door-to-door can outperform digital marketing by building route density and lowering operational costs. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email: support@pestempirebuilder.com Website: www.pestempirebuilder.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices If you’ve ever thought, “Door-to-door could grow my pest control business… but I don’t want to hire some expensive outside sales crew,” this episode is for you. 

In this Pest Empire Builder Podcast episode, Matt sits down with Lenny Gray to break down how to build an in-house door-to-door sales team that actually works, without chaos, burnout, or wasted payroll. Lenny shares what most pest control owners get wrong when they try to “go all-in” too fast, why outsourcing door-to-door teams often fails, and how to set up your door-to-door program so you can scale profitably. You’ll learn how to recruit the right reps, how many people to hire (and why attrition is normal), what training must exist before your reps knock a single door, and the exact door-to-door KPIs that predict sales success. 

If you’re battling rising PPC costs, expensive lead generation, and inconsistent growth, door-to-door can be your smartest lever, especially because it builds route density, reduces windshield time, and creates faster, more controllable customer acquisition in pest control.


Highlights:

→ You’ll learn why starting with 5–8 reps is smarter than trying to manage 20 your first year, and how to reverse-engineer hiring based on a realistic revenue target per rep. 

→ You’ll hear Lenny’s “Law of 600” framework for new reps, why early struggles are normal and how consistency creates skill breakthroughs. 

→ You’ll get the most important door-to-door metrics to track, including knock-to-talk ratio, contacts per hour, qualifying ratio, closing ratio, and cancellation rates before and after the first service. 

→ You’ll also learn Lenny’s four-pronged recruiting system (personal network, social ads, off-campus, and on-campus recruiting) and why door-to-door can outperform digital marketing by building route density and lowering operational costs.


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email: support@pestempirebuilder.com

Website: www.pestempirebuilder.com


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2891 Business Partnerships Are Like Marriage (Here’s the Prenup) Business partnerships can grow your company faster, or trap you in a toxic mess that’s hard (and expensive) to escape. In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, Matt Williams and Rob Greer break down the real truth about business partners, equity splits, and how to run a company with a partner (or operate “like a partnership” even when you’re solo). If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right business partner, how to avoid partnership conflict, or whether it’s smarter to stay a sole owner, this conversation will save you headaches. They compare partnerships to a financial marriage, explain why visionary vs implementer dynamics matter, and reveal how clear boundaries (like the “playground fence” concept) create freedom inside the business. You’ll also hear practical frameworks for handling feedback, building a healthy leadership culture, and deciding when it’s time to walk away. Whether you’re in pest control, home services, inspections, or any entrepreneur-led company, this episode gives you a real-world guide to partnerships, accountability, and scaling without losing your mind. What You’ll Learn: → How to choose a business partner without creating a “financial divorce” → Visionary vs Implementer: the role split that prevents chaos → Why you can’t dump emotional stress on employees (but you can with partners) → The “fence” principle: boundaries that create freedom and trust → Why equity isn’t about control, it’s about contribution and upside → Rowers vs Sailors vs Navigators: building the right ownership team  → How to create a feedback culture without defensiveness → Why a buy-sell agreement is the business version of a prenup → When it’s time to renegotiate, restructure, or exit a partnership Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 23 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0000 full 1 16 Matt Williams Business partnerships can grow your company faster, or trap you in a toxic mess that’s hard (and expensive) to escape. In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, Matt Williams and Rob Greer break down the real truth about business partners, equity splits, and how to run a company with a partner (or operate “like a partnership” even when you’re solo). If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right business partner, how to avoid partnership conflict, or whether it’s smarter to stay a sole owner, this conversation will save you headaches. They compare partnerships to a financial marriage, explain why visionary vs implementer dynamics matter, and reveal how clear boundaries (like the “playground fence” concept) create freedom inside the business. You’ll also hear practical frameworks for handling feedback, building a healthy leadership culture, and deciding when it’s time to walk away. Whether you’re in pest control, home services, inspections, or any entrepreneur-led company, this episode gives you a real-world guide to partnerships, accountability, and scaling without losing your mind. What You’ll Learn: → How to choose a business partner without creating a “financial divorce” → Visionary vs Implementer: the role split that prevents chaos → Why you can’t dump emotional stress on employees (but you can with partners) → The “fence” principle: boundaries that create freedom and trust → Why equity isn’t about control, it’s about contribution and upside → Rowers vs Sailors vs Navigators: building the right ownership team  → How to create a feedback culture without defensiveness → Why a buy-sell agreement is the business version of a prenup → When it’s time to renegotiate, restructure, or exit a partnership Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Business partnerships can grow your company faster, or trap you in a toxic mess that’s hard (and expensive) to escape. In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, Matt Williams and Rob Greer break down the real truth about business partners, equity splits, and how to run a company with a partner (or operate “like a partnership” even when you’re solo). If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right business partner, how to avoid partnership conflict, or whether it’s smarter to stay a sole owner, this conversation will save you headaches. They compare partnerships to a financial marriage, explain why visionary vs implementer dynamics matter, and reveal how clear boundaries (like the “playground fence” concept) create freedom inside the business. You’ll also hear practical frameworks for handling feedback, building a healthy leadership culture, and deciding when it’s time to walk away. Whether you’re in pest control, home services, inspections, or any entrepreneur-led company, this episode gives you a real-world guide to partnerships, accountability, and scaling without losing your mind.


What You’ll Learn:

→ How to choose a business partner without creating a “financial divorce”

→ Visionary vs Implementer: the role split that prevents chaos

→ Why you can’t dump emotional stress on employees (but you can with partners)

→ The “fence” principle: boundaries that create freedom and trust

→ Why equity isn’t about control, it’s about contribution and upside

→ Rowers vs Sailors vs Navigators: building the right ownership team

 → How to create a feedback culture without defensiveness

→ Why a buy-sell agreement is the business version of a prenup

→ When it’s time to renegotiate, restructure, or exit a partnership


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email
Website


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1682 The Lie You’ve Been Told About Work–Life Balance as a Home Service Entrepreneur https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/The-Lie-Youve-Been-Told-About-WorkLife-Balance-as-a-Home-Service-Entrepreneur-e3be5oa In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, we break down how Josh went from 0 to $10M/year in pest control in under 7 years.If you’re in home services (pest control, home inspection, trades) and you want to scale without blowing up your life, this is for you.Learn how people, core values, and courage beat tactics every time. What You’ll Learn: → How Josh “fell into” pest control from a wrong phone number and turned it into a $10M+ empire → The mindset that took him from technician to leader to multi-location owner → Why home services is really a people business, no matter what you actually sell → How to use core values to hire, fire, and promote (without feeling like the bad guy) → The hidden synergy between home inspection and pest control and how to turn one into recurring revenue for the other → Practical ways to build a vulnerability-based culture where your team actually owns their mistakes → The reality of “whatever it takes” vs burning out your team and your family → Why your spouse/partner and inner circle can become either your ceiling, or your superpower Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 26 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000 full 1 15 Matt Williams <p>In this episode of the <em>Empire Builder Podcast</em>, we break down how Josh went from <strong>0 to $10M/year in pest control in under 7 years</strong>.If you’re in <strong>home services</strong> (pest control, home inspection, trades) and you want to scale without blowing up your life, this is for you.Learn how people, core values, and courage beat tactics every time.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><ul><li><p>How Josh “fell into” pest control from a wrong phone number and turned it into a $10M+ empire</p></li><li><p>The mindset that took him from technician to leader to multi-location owner</p></li><li><p>Why <strong>home services is really a people business</strong>, no matter what you actually sell</p></li><li><p>How to use <strong>core values</strong> to hire, fire, and promote (without feeling like the bad guy)</p></li><li><p>The hidden synergy between <strong>home inspection and pest control</strong> and how to turn one into recurring revenue for the other</p></li><li><p>Practical ways to build a <strong>vulnerability-based culture</strong> where your team <em>actually</em> owns their mistakes</p></li><li><p>The reality of “whatever it takes” vs burning out your team and your family</p></li><li><p>Why your <strong>spouse/partner and inner circle</strong> can become either your ceiling—or your superpower</p></li></ul><p>Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. </p><p><a href="mailto:support@pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Email</u></a>: support@pestempirebuilder.com</p><p><a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com/"><u>Website</u></a>: <a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com/"><u>www.pestempirebuilder.com</u></a></p><p><strong>What You’ll Learn / Episode Highlights</strong><br></p> In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, we break down how Josh went from 0 to $10M/year in pest control in under 7 years.If you’re in home services (pest control, home inspection, trades) and you want to scale without blowing up your life, this is for you.Learn how people, core values, and courage beat tactics every time. What You’ll Learn: → How Josh “fell into” pest control from a wrong phone number and turned it into a $10M+ empire → The mindset that took him from technician to leader to multi-location owner → Why home services is really a people business, no matter what you actually sell → How to use core values to hire, fire, and promote (without feeling like the bad guy) → The hidden synergy between home inspection and pest control and how to turn one into recurring revenue for the other → Practical ways to build a vulnerability-based culture where your team actually owns their mistakes → The reality of “whatever it takes” vs burning out your team and your family → Why your spouse/partner and inner circle can become either your ceiling, or your superpower Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, we break down how Josh went from 0 to $10M/year in pest control in under 7 years.If you’re in home services (pest control, home inspection, trades) and you want to scale without blowing up your life, this is for you.Learn how people, core values, and courage beat tactics every time.


What You’ll Learn:

→ How Josh “fell into” pest control from a wrong phone number and turned it into a $10M+ empire

→ The mindset that took him from technician to leader to multi-location owner

→ Why home services is really a people business, no matter what you actually sell

→ How to use core values to hire, fire, and promote (without feeling like the bad guy)

→ The hidden synergy between home inspection and pest control and how to turn one into recurring revenue for the other

→ Practical ways to build a vulnerability-based culture where your team actually owns their mistakes

→ The reality of “whatever it takes” vs burning out your team and your family

→ Why your spouse/partner and inner circle can become either your ceiling, or your superpower


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email
Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1591 no The Lie You’ve Been Told About Scaling Your Pest Control Company https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/The-Lie-Youve-Been-Told-About-Scaling-Your-Pest-Control-Company-e3b7b7s Want to grow your family pest control business beyond a one-man route? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, we unpack how Wilson took a tiny “Craigslist embryo company” in Denver and turned it into a real operation with thousands of services on the books.If you’re serious about scaling your pest control business and keeping your family (and sanity) intact, this one’s for you. What You’ll Learn: → How Wilson went from Michigan winters and dead-end job to buying a tiny pest control side hustle off Craigslist in Colorado → What an “embryo company” really looks like, and how they grew it from ~250 clients to 2,000+ services → The real pros and cons of working with family (and how coaching + personality profiles kept them from blowing up the business) → Why mindset > strategy > tools when it comes to scaling a pest control company → The difference between being self-employed vs. being a true business owner who creates jobs and freedom → How hobbies, motorcycles, trips, and time away actually fuel better leadership and decision-making → Adapting your service, systems, and culture to different markets (Denver vs. Michigan vs. Albuquerque) instead of copy-pasting someone else’s model → How to think about AI, tech, and changing customer expectations so your pest control company doesn’t get left behind → Practical tips for building processes, a fleet, and a leadership team that can handle real growth Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 20 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000 full 1 14 Matt Williams <p>Want to grow your <strong>family pest control business</strong> beyond a one-man route? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, we unpack how Wilson took a tiny “Craigslist embryo company” in Denver and turned it into a real operation with thousands of services on the books.If you’re serious about scaling your pest control business <em>and</em> keeping your family (and sanity) intact, this one’s for you.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><strong>What You’ll Learn / Highlights</strong></p><ul><li><p>How Wilson went from Michigan winters and dead-end job to buying a tiny pest control side hustle off Craigslist in Colorado</p></li><li><p>What an “embryo company” really looks like—and how they grew it from ~250 clients to 2,000+ services</p></li><li><p>The real pros and cons of working with family (and how coaching + personality profiles kept them from blowing up the business)</p></li><li><p>Why <strong>mindset &gt; strategy &gt; tools</strong> when it comes to scaling a pest control company</p></li><li><p>The difference between being <em>self-employed</em> vs. being a true <strong>business owner</strong> who creates jobs and freedom</p></li><li><p>How hobbies, motorcycles, trips, and time away actually fuel better leadership and decision-making</p></li><li><p>Adapting your service, systems, and culture to different markets (Denver vs. Michigan vs. Albuquerque) instead of copy-pasting someone else’s model</p></li><li><p>How to think about AI, tech, and changing customer expectations so your pest control company doesn’t get left behind</p></li><li><p>Practical tips for building processes, a fleet, and a leadership team that can handle real growth</p></li></ul><p>Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. </p><p><a href="mailto:support@pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Email</u></a>: support@pestempirebuilder.com</p><p><br><a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com/"><u>Website</u></a>: <a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com/"><u>www.pestempirebuilder.com</u></a></p> Want to grow your family pest control business beyond a one-man route? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, we unpack how Wilson took a tiny “Craigslist embryo company” in Denver and turned it into a real operation with thousands of services on the books.If you’re serious about scaling your pest control business and keeping your family (and sanity) intact, this one’s for you. What You’ll Learn: → How Wilson went from Michigan winters and dead-end job to buying a tiny pest control side hustle off Craigslist in Colorado → What an “embryo company” really looks like, and how they grew it from ~250 clients to 2,000+ services → The real pros and cons of working with family (and how coaching + personality profiles kept them from blowing up the business) → Why mindset > strategy > tools when it comes to scaling a pest control company → The difference between being self-employed vs. being a true business owner who creates jobs and freedom → How hobbies, motorcycles, trips, and time away actually fuel better leadership and decision-making → Adapting your service, systems, and culture to different markets (Denver vs. Michigan vs. Albuquerque) instead of copy-pasting someone else’s model → How to think about AI, tech, and changing customer expectations so your pest control company doesn’t get left behind → Practical tips for building processes, a fleet, and a leadership team that can handle real growth Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Want to grow your family pest control business beyond a one-man route? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, we unpack how Wilson took a tiny “Craigslist embryo company” in Denver and turned it into a real operation with thousands of services on the books.If you’re serious about scaling your pest control business and keeping your family (and sanity) intact, this one’s for you.


What You’ll Learn:

→ How Wilson went from Michigan winters and dead-end job to buying a tiny pest control side hustle off Craigslist in Colorado

→ What an “embryo company” really looks like, and how they grew it from ~250 clients to 2,000+ services

→ The real pros and cons of working with family (and how coaching + personality profiles kept them from blowing up the business)

→ Why mindset > strategy > tools when it comes to scaling a pest control company

→ The difference between being self-employed vs. being a true business owner who creates jobs and freedom

→ How hobbies, motorcycles, trips, and time away actually fuel better leadership and decision-making

→ Adapting your service, systems, and culture to different markets (Denver vs. Michigan vs. Albuquerque) instead of copy-pasting someone else’s model

→ How to think about AI, tech, and changing customer expectations so your pest control company doesn’t get left behind

→ Practical tips for building processes, a fleet, and a leadership team that can handle real growth


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email
Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2943 no How to Build a Pest Control Team That Actually Lasts https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/How-to-Build-a-Pest-Control-Team-That-Actually-Lasts-e3at963 Want to scale your pest control business beyond a couple trucks without burning out or blowing up your margins?In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, Chad Luke from Prodigy Pest Solutions breaks down how he went from zero relationships in a new city to $9–10M in 7 years and 40 techs on the road.If you own or lead a pest control company and you’re serious about growth, this conversation is your playbook. What You’ll Learn: → How Chad moved to a city where he knew no one and built a pest control empire from scratch → The exact role door-to-door sales played in getting from 0 to 50 trucks (and why it’s different today) → Why timing, luck, and market selection matter, and how to put yourself in the “right place, right time” more often → The turning point from “good salesman” to actual business owner (technical ops, office, and financials) → How to use technicians in the field to grow routes with simple neighbor/“cloverleaf” tactics → The mindset shift from “I have to do it all” to delegating and hiring smarter people than you → How Chad uses supercars as sales incentives and why culture is a huge lever for recruiting and retention → The hidden cost of a bad hire and why keeping good people beats trying to replace them → Why networking with competitors and masterminds will grow your business faster than hoarding secrets Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 13 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000 full 1 13 Matt Williams <p>How to Build a Pest Control Team That Actually Lasts</p><p>Want to <strong>scale your pest control business</strong> beyond a couple trucks without burning out or blowing up your margins?In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, Chad Luke from Prodigy Pest Solutions breaks down how he went from <em>zero relationships in a new city</em> to <strong>$9–10M in 7 years</strong> and 40 techs on the road.If you own or lead a pest control company and you’re serious about growth, this conversation is your playbook.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>What You’ll Learn / Highlights</strong></p><ul><li><p>How Chad moved to a city where he knew <strong>no one</strong> and built a pest control empire from scratch</p></li><li><p>The exact role <strong>door-to-door sales</strong> played in getting from 0 to 50 trucks (and why it’s different today)</p></li><li><p>Why <strong>timing, luck, and market selection</strong> matter—and how to put yourself in the “right place, right time” more often</p></li><li><p>The turning point from “good salesman” to <strong>actual business owner</strong> (technical ops, office, and financials)</p></li><li><p>How to use <strong>technicians in the field</strong> to grow routes with simple neighbor/“cloverleaf” tactics</p></li><li><p>The mindset shift from “I have to do it all” to <strong>delegating and hiring smarter people than you</strong></p></li><li><p>How Chad uses <strong>supercars as sales incentives</strong> and why culture is a huge lever for recruiting and retention</p></li><li><p>The hidden cost of a <strong>bad hire</strong> and why keeping good people beats trying to replace them</p></li><li><p>Why networking with <strong>competitors and masterminds</strong> will grow your business faster than hoarding secrets</p></li></ul><p>Keywords sprinkled: scale your pest control business, door to door pest control sales, pest control marketing, pest control recruiting, grow your pest control company, home service business.</p><p>Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. </p><p><a href="mailto:support@pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Email</u></a>: support@pestempirebuilder.com</p><p><a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com/"><u>Website</u></a>: <a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com/"><u>www.pestempirebuilder.com</u></a><br></p> Want to scale your pest control business beyond a couple trucks without burning out or blowing up your margins?In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, Chad Luke from Prodigy Pest Solutions breaks down how he went from zero relationships in a new city to $9–10M in 7 years and 40 techs on the road.If you own or lead a pest control company and you’re serious about growth, this conversation is your playbook. What You’ll Learn: → How Chad moved to a city where he knew no one and built a pest control empire from scratch → The exact role door-to-door sales played in getting from 0 to 50 trucks (and why it’s different today) → Why timing, luck, and market selection matter, and how to put yourself in the “right place, right time” more often → The turning point from “good salesman” to actual business owner (technical ops, office, and financials) → How to use technicians in the field to grow routes with simple neighbor/“cloverleaf” tactics → The mindset shift from “I have to do it all” to delegating and hiring smarter people than you → How Chad uses supercars as sales incentives and why culture is a huge lever for recruiting and retention → The hidden cost of a bad hire and why keeping good people beats trying to replace them → Why networking with competitors and masterminds will grow your business faster than hoarding secrets Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Want to scale your pest control business beyond a couple trucks without burning out or blowing up your margins?In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, Chad Luke from Prodigy Pest Solutions breaks down how he went from zero relationships in a new city to $9–10M in 7 years and 40 techs on the road.If you own or lead a pest control company and you’re serious about growth, this conversation is your playbook.


What You’ll Learn:

→ How Chad moved to a city where he knew no one and built a pest control empire from scratch

→ The exact role door-to-door sales played in getting from 0 to 50 trucks (and why it’s different today)

→ Why timing, luck, and market selection matter, and how to put yourself in the “right place, right time” more often

→ The turning point from “good salesman” to actual business owner (technical ops, office, and financials)

→ How to use technicians in the field to grow routes with simple neighbor/“cloverleaf” tactics

→ The mindset shift from “I have to do it all” to delegating and hiring smarter people than you

→ How Chad uses supercars as sales incentives and why culture is a huge lever for recruiting and retention

→ The hidden cost of a bad hire and why keeping good people beats trying to replace them

→ Why networking with competitors and masterminds will grow your business faster than hoarding secrets


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email
Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1940 no From Zero to 10 Trucks in 3 Years: Scaling Smart in Pest Control https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/From-Zero-to-10-Trucks-in-3-Years-Scaling-Smart-in-Pest-Control-e3a9b2j What does it really take to go from ground zero to a thriving multi-truck pest control business in just three years? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder podcast, Matt Williams sits down with Scott Sandberg, co-founder of Ruva Pest Control, to unpack the grit, mindset, and strategic decisions behind one of the fastest-growing pest companies in the Northeast. Scott didn’t just start a pest control business, he and his two co-founders launched Ruva in a new city where they knew no one. From humble beginnings to managing a fleet of 10 trucks, Scott shares the real story behind their explosive growth, including the unexpected lessons, brutal mistakes, and mindset shifts that changed everything. You’ll hear how Ruva broke industry norms with a unique name, why they restructured employee compensation to attract A-players, and how they’ve cultivated a high-performance culture that’s primed for multi-location expansion. It’s not just about exterminating pests, it’s about building a scalable, values-driven business that changes lives. Takeaways: → Why aligning pay structure with company values attracts top talent → The importance of mentorship and learning from others’ mistakes → How investing back into your business is the best growth strategy → Why boundaries and personal discipline are crucial for entrepreneurs → The power of casting vision and building a leadership pipeline "It's not the knowledge that matters, it's being able to execute on it." If you found value in Scott’s journey, share this episode with a fellow business owner or aspiring entrepreneur. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Pest Empire Builder podcast so you never miss an episode that could change your business! Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full 1 12 Matt Williams <p>What does it really take to go from ground zero to a thriving multi-truck pest control business in just three years? In this episode of the <em>Pest Empire Builder</em> podcast, Matt Williams sits down with Scott Sandberg, co-founder of Ruva Pest Control, to unpack the grit, mindset, and strategic decisions behind one of the fastest-growing pest companies in the Northeast.</p><p>Scott didn’t just start a pest control business, he and his two co-founders launched Ruva in a new city where they knew no one. From humble beginnings to managing a fleet of 10 trucks, Scott shares the real story behind their explosive growth, including the unexpected lessons, brutal mistakes, and mindset shifts that changed everything.</p><p>You’ll hear how Ruva broke industry norms with a unique name, why they restructured employee compensation to attract A-players, and how they’ve cultivated a high-performance culture that’s primed for multi-location expansion. It’s not just about exterminating pests, it’s about building a scalable, values-driven business that changes lives.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Takeaways:</strong></p><p>Why aligning pay structure with company values attracts top talent<br></p><p>The importance of mentorship and learning from others’ mistakes<br></p><p>How investing back into your business is the best growth strategy<br></p><p>Why boundaries and personal discipline are crucial for entrepreneurs<br></p><p>The power of casting vision and building a leadership pipeline<br></p><p> <em>&quot;It&#39;s not the knowledge that matters, it&#39;s being able to execute on it.&quot;</em></p><p><br></p><p> If you found value in Scott’s journey, share this episode with a fellow business owner or aspiring entrepreneur. And don’t forget to subscribe to the <em>Pest Empire Builder</em> podcast so you never miss an episode that could change your business!</p><p><br></p><p>Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. </p><p><a href="mailto:support@pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Email</u></a>: support@pestempirebuilder.com</p><p><a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Website</u></a>: <a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com/"><u>www.pestempirebuilder.com</u></a></p> What does it really take to go from ground zero to a thriving multi-truck pest control business in just three years? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder podcast, Matt Williams sits down with Scott Sandberg, co-founder of Ruva Pest Control, to unpack the grit, mindset, and strategic decisions behind one of the fastest-growing pest companies in the Northeast. Scott didn’t just start a pest control business, he and his two co-founders launched Ruva in a new city where they knew no one. From humble beginnings to managing a fleet of 10 trucks, Scott shares the real story behind their explosive growth, including the unexpected lessons, brutal mistakes, and mindset shifts that changed everything. You’ll hear how Ruva broke industry norms with a unique name, why they restructured employee compensation to attract A-players, and how they’ve cultivated a high-performance culture that’s primed for multi-location expansion. It’s not just about exterminating pests, it’s about building a scalable, values-driven business that changes lives. Takeaways: → Why aligning pay structure with company values attracts top talent → The importance of mentorship and learning from others’ mistakes → How investing back into your business is the best growth strategy → Why boundaries and personal discipline are crucial for entrepreneurs → The power of casting vision and building a leadership pipeline "It's not the knowledge that matters, it's being able to execute on it." If you found value in Scott’s journey, share this episode with a fellow business owner or aspiring entrepreneur. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Pest Empire Builder podcast so you never miss an episode that could change your business! Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What does it really take to go from ground zero to a thriving multi-truck pest control business in just three years? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder podcast, Matt Williams sits down with Scott Sandberg, co-founder of Ruva Pest Control, to unpack the grit, mindset, and strategic decisions behind one of the fastest-growing pest companies in the Northeast.

Scott didn’t just start a pest control business, he and his two co-founders launched Ruva in a new city where they knew no one. From humble beginnings to managing a fleet of 10 trucks, Scott shares the real story behind their explosive growth, including the unexpected lessons, brutal mistakes, and mindset shifts that changed everything.

You’ll hear how Ruva broke industry norms with a unique name, why they restructured employee compensation to attract A-players, and how they’ve cultivated a high-performance culture that’s primed for multi-location expansion. It’s not just about exterminating pests, it’s about building a scalable, values-driven business that changes lives.


Takeaways:

→ Why aligning pay structure with company values attracts top talent

→ The importance of mentorship and learning from others’ mistakes

→ How investing back into your business is the best growth strategy

→ Why boundaries and personal discipline are crucial for entrepreneurs

→ The power of casting vision and building a leadership pipeline

"It's not the knowledge that matters, it's being able to execute on it."


If you found value in Scott’s journey, share this episode with a fellow business owner or aspiring entrepreneur. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Pest Empire Builder podcast so you never miss an episode that could change your business!


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email

Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 3160 no From Door-to-Door to Empire: Kyle Weaver’s Journey to Building a Multi-Million Dollar Pest Control Company https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/From-Door-to-Door-to-Empire-Kyle-Weavers-Journey-to-Building-a-Multi-Million-Dollar-Pest-Control-Company-e39mata What if you moved across the country to a city where you knew no one, and built a thriving, multi-million dollar business from scratch? That’s exactly what Kyle Weaver did. In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, we uncover the mindset, marketing strategies, and deeply personal motivations that helped Kyle turn bold risk into massive reward. Kyle shares the rollercoaster story of starting his pest control company in San Antonio, Texas, after throwing a dart at the map post-2008 recession. With zero local connections, no safety net, and just a gritty determination fueled by his door-to-door sales background, Kyle overcame massive hurdles, licensing challenges, financial scarcity, and business plateaus, on his path to success. You’ll hear how he leveraged emerging digital marketing tools long before they were mainstream, how AI and automation are supercharging his current operations, and why personal growth and family priorities now drive every business decision he makes. It’s a conversation that’s equal parts strategy, heart, and real-life wisdom. Takeaways: → Start Where You Are: Kyle built his business in a new city with no network, just grit, hustle, and creative problem-solving. → Tech-Savvy Scaling: From PPC to AI phone scheduling, Kyle explains how leveraging technology helped him outpace the competition. → Redefining Success: True wealth isn’t always measured in dollars, it’s the freedom to never miss your kid’s soccer game. → The Power of Mentorship: Surrounding yourself with others who are further down the path can accelerate your growth and protect your joy. → Build the Human First: Your company won’t grow past the person leading it, Kyle unpacks how personal development fuels business breakthroughs. “My business is only going to grow to the human I am.” Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow entrepreneur, subscribe to the podcast, and take 5 minutes today to define your own version of success, then reverse engineer your business around it. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 23 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full 1 11 Matt Williams <p>What if you moved across the country to a city where you knew no one, and built a thriving, multi-million dollar business from scratch? That’s exactly what Kyle Weaver did. In this episode of <em>Pest Empire Builder</em>, we uncover the mindset, marketing strategies, and deeply personal motivations that helped Kyle turn bold risk into massive reward.</p><p>Kyle shares the rollercoaster story of starting his pest control company in San Antonio, Texas, after throwing a dart at the map post-2008 recession. With zero local connections, no safety net, and just a gritty determination fueled by his door-to-door sales background, Kyle overcame massive hurdles, licensing challenges, financial scarcity, and business plateaus, on his path to success.</p><p>You’ll hear how he leveraged emerging digital marketing tools long before they were mainstream, how AI and automation are supercharging his current operations, and why personal growth and family priorities now drive every business decision he makes. It’s a conversation that’s equal parts strategy, heart, and real-life wisdom.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Takeaways:</strong></p><p><strong>Start Where You Are</strong>: Kyle built his business in a new city with no network, just grit, hustle, and creative problem-solving.<br></p><p><strong>Tech-Savvy Scaling</strong>: From PPC to AI phone scheduling, Kyle explains how leveraging technology helped him outpace the competition.<br></p><p><strong>Redefining Success</strong>: True wealth isn’t always measured in dollars, it’s the freedom to never miss your kid’s soccer game.<br></p><p><strong>The Power of Mentorship</strong>: Surrounding yourself with others who are further down the path can accelerate your growth and protect your joy.<br></p><p><strong>Build the Human First</strong>: Your company won’t grow past the person leading it, Kyle unpacks how personal development fuels business breakthroughs.<br></p><p>“My business is only going to grow to the human I am.”</p><p><br></p><p> Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow entrepreneur, subscribe to the podcast, and take 5 minutes today to define your own version of success, then reverse engineer your business around it.</p><p><br></p><p>Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. </p><p><a href="mailto:support@pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Email</u></a>: support@pestempirebuilder.com<br><a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Website</u></a></p> What if you moved across the country to a city where you knew no one, and built a thriving, multi-million dollar business from scratch? That’s exactly what Kyle Weaver did. In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, we uncover the mindset, marketing strategies, and deeply personal motivations that helped Kyle turn bold risk into massive reward. Kyle shares the rollercoaster story of starting his pest control company in San Antonio, Texas, after throwing a dart at the map post-2008 recession. With zero local connections, no safety net, and just a gritty determination fueled by his door-to-door sales background, Kyle overcame massive hurdles, licensing challenges, financial scarcity, and business plateaus, on his path to success. You’ll hear how he leveraged emerging digital marketing tools long before they were mainstream, how AI and automation are supercharging his current operations, and why personal growth and family priorities now drive every business decision he makes. It’s a conversation that’s equal parts strategy, heart, and real-life wisdom. Takeaways: → Start Where You Are: Kyle built his business in a new city with no network, just grit, hustle, and creative problem-solving. → Tech-Savvy Scaling: From PPC to AI phone scheduling, Kyle explains how leveraging technology helped him outpace the competition. → Redefining Success: True wealth isn’t always measured in dollars, it’s the freedom to never miss your kid’s soccer game. → The Power of Mentorship: Surrounding yourself with others who are further down the path can accelerate your growth and protect your joy. → Build the Human First: Your company won’t grow past the person leading it, Kyle unpacks how personal development fuels business breakthroughs. “My business is only going to grow to the human I am.” Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow entrepreneur, subscribe to the podcast, and take 5 minutes today to define your own version of success, then reverse engineer your business around it. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What if you moved across the country to a city where you knew no one, and built a thriving, multi-million dollar business from scratch? That’s exactly what Kyle Weaver did. In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, we uncover the mindset, marketing strategies, and deeply personal motivations that helped Kyle turn bold risk into massive reward.

Kyle shares the rollercoaster story of starting his pest control company in San Antonio, Texas, after throwing a dart at the map post-2008 recession. With zero local connections, no safety net, and just a gritty determination fueled by his door-to-door sales background, Kyle overcame massive hurdles, licensing challenges, financial scarcity, and business plateaus, on his path to success.

You’ll hear how he leveraged emerging digital marketing tools long before they were mainstream, how AI and automation are supercharging his current operations, and why personal growth and family priorities now drive every business decision he makes. It’s a conversation that’s equal parts strategy, heart, and real-life wisdom.


Takeaways:

→ Start Where You Are: Kyle built his business in a new city with no network, just grit, hustle, and creative problem-solving.

→ Tech-Savvy Scaling: From PPC to AI phone scheduling, Kyle explains how leveraging technology helped him outpace the competition.

→ Redefining Success: True wealth isn’t always measured in dollars, it’s the freedom to never miss your kid’s soccer game.

→ The Power of Mentorship: Surrounding yourself with others who are further down the path can accelerate your growth and protect your joy.

→ Build the Human First: Your company won’t grow past the person leading it, Kyle unpacks how personal development fuels business breakthroughs.

“My business is only going to grow to the human I am.”


Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow entrepreneur, subscribe to the podcast, and take 5 minutes today to define your own version of success, then reverse engineer your business around it.


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email
Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 3279 no Stop Playing the Victim: How Ownership and Vision Can 2x Your Business https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/Stop-Playing-the-Victim-How-Ownership-and-Vision-Can-2x-Your-Business-e39l36c Are you holding yourself back without even knowing it? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, host Matt Williams tackles a tough but vital truth: the only thing between you and your next big business breakthrough might be… you. Joined by 20-year pest control veteran Jeff Davis, this raw, real conversation explores how shifting from a victim mentality to full ownership can radically transform your business, and your life. Jeff shares his personal journey from hardship and limiting beliefs to purpose and empowerment, revealing how internal mindset shifts helped him reignite his passion for business. Together, Matt and Jeff dive into the power of vision, building a winning culture, and empowering your team to take the wheel. so you can finally start working on the business instead of just in it. Whether you're in a season where the wind is at your back or you're trudging through resistance, this episode will meet you where you're at, and call you higher. Takeaways: → Victim mentality kills momentum, stop blaming and start owning your outcomes. → You attract who you are, want better people? Be a better leader. → Culture begins at the top, your company will reflect your personal growth. → Freedom is found in discipline, clear vision and values bring direction, not restriction. → Empower your team, when people own the mission, they outperform. “I’m not going to attract what I want. I can only attract what I am.” -Jeff Davis  Ready to level up your leadership? Subscribe to the show, share this episode with a fellow business owner, and take 10 minutes today to journal your personal mission, vision, and values. Your future team will thank you.  Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Fri, 17 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full 1 10 Matt Williams <p><strong>Are you holding yourself back without even knowing it?</strong> In this episode of the <em>Pest Empire Builder Podcast</em>, host Matt Williams tackles a tough but vital truth: the only thing between you and your next big business breakthrough might be… you. Joined by 20-year pest control veteran Jeff Davis, this raw, real conversation explores how shifting from a victim mentality to full ownership can radically transform your business, and your life.</p><p>Jeff shares his personal journey from hardship and limiting beliefs to purpose and empowerment, revealing how internal mindset shifts helped him reignite his passion for business. Together, Matt and Jeff dive into the power of vision, building a winning culture, and empowering your team to take the wheel. so you can finally start working <em>on</em> the business instead of just <em>in</em> it.</p><p>Whether you&#39;re in a season where the wind is at your back or you&#39;re trudging through resistance, this episode will meet you where you&#39;re at, and call you higher.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Takeaways:</strong></p><p><strong>Victim mentality kills momentum</strong>, stop blaming and start owning your outcomes.<br></p><p><strong>You attract who you are</strong>, want better people? Be a better leader.<br></p><p><strong>Culture begins at the top</strong>, your company will reflect your personal growth.<br></p><p><strong>Freedom is found in discipline</strong>, clear vision and values bring direction, not restriction.<br></p><p><strong>Empower your team</strong>, when people own the mission, they outperform.<br></p><p><strong>“I’m not going to attract what I want. I can only attract what I am.” -Jeff Davis</strong></p><p><br></p><p> <em>Ready to level up your leadership?</em> Subscribe to the show, share this episode with a fellow business owner, and take 10 minutes today to journal your personal mission, vision, and values. Your future team will thank you. </p><p><br></p><p>Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. </p><p><a href="mailto:support@pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Email</u></a>: support@pestempirebuilder.com<br><a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Website</u></a>: <a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com/"><u>www.pestempirebuilder.com</u></a></p> Are you holding yourself back without even knowing it? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, host Matt Williams tackles a tough but vital truth: the only thing between you and your next big business breakthrough might be… you. Joined by 20-year pest control veteran Jeff Davis, this raw, real conversation explores how shifting from a victim mentality to full ownership can radically transform your business, and your life. Jeff shares his personal journey from hardship and limiting beliefs to purpose and empowerment, revealing how internal mindset shifts helped him reignite his passion for business. Together, Matt and Jeff dive into the power of vision, building a winning culture, and empowering your team to take the wheel. so you can finally start working on the business instead of just in it. Whether you're in a season where the wind is at your back or you're trudging through resistance, this episode will meet you where you're at, and call you higher. Takeaways: → Victim mentality kills momentum, stop blaming and start owning your outcomes. → You attract who you are, want better people? Be a better leader. → Culture begins at the top, your company will reflect your personal growth. → Freedom is found in discipline, clear vision and values bring direction, not restriction. → Empower your team, when people own the mission, they outperform. “I’m not going to attract what I want. I can only attract what I am.” -Jeff Davis  Ready to level up your leadership? Subscribe to the show, share this episode with a fellow business owner, and take 10 minutes today to journal your personal mission, vision, and values. Your future team will thank you.  Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Are you holding yourself back without even knowing it? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, host Matt Williams tackles a tough but vital truth: the only thing between you and your next big business breakthrough might be… you. Joined by 20-year pest control veteran Jeff Davis, this raw, real conversation explores how shifting from a victim mentality to full ownership can radically transform your business, and your life.

Jeff shares his personal journey from hardship and limiting beliefs to purpose and empowerment, revealing how internal mindset shifts helped him reignite his passion for business. Together, Matt and Jeff dive into the power of vision, building a winning culture, and empowering your team to take the wheel. so you can finally start working on the business instead of just in it.

Whether you're in a season where the wind is at your back or you're trudging through resistance, this episode will meet you where you're at, and call you higher.


Takeaways:

→ Victim mentality kills momentum, stop blaming and start owning your outcomes.

→ You attract who you are, want better people? Be a better leader.

→ Culture begins at the top, your company will reflect your personal growth.

→ Freedom is found in discipline, clear vision and values bring direction, not restriction.

→ Empower your team, when people own the mission, they outperform.

“I’m not going to attract what I want. I can only attract what I am.” -Jeff Davis


 Ready to level up your leadership? Subscribe to the show, share this episode with a fellow business owner, and take 10 minutes today to journal your personal mission, vision, and values. Your future team will thank you. 


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email
Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 3185 no The Santa Claus of East Tennessee: How One Man Built a Pest Control Empire by Putting People First https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/The-Santa-Claus-of-East-Tennessee-How-One-Man-Built-a-Pest-Control-Empire-by-Putting-People-First-e397ulo What if your next big business breakthrough isn’t about better software or slicker ads, but about being more human? In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, we sit down with Donnie Bentley, a seasoned home inspector and pest control pro who’s been serving East Tennessee for nearly three decades. Known for his striking Santa Claus resemblance and servant-hearted leadership, Donnie shares how he’s built, and sold, multiple pest control companies, all while keeping one core value at the center: people over process. This conversation isn’t about chasing the latest trend. It’s about sustainable growth through integrity, strategic partnerships, and a relentless commitment to taking care of others. From launching a radon mitigation business to stringing Christmas lights under the “Santa’s Twinkle” brand, Donnie’s entrepreneurial journey is as unconventional as it is inspiring. In this episode, you’ll learn: → How Donnie turned a legal nightmare into a profitable pest control business → Why home inspection and pest control companies make powerful business allies → The key differences between seasonal, residential, and commercial pest control revenue streams → How old-school customer service still wins in a high-tech world → Why being in the “people business” is more than a catchy phrase, it’s a strategy “I’m in the taking-care-of-people business. I just happen to do pest control as a means to do that.” – Donnie Bentley Whether you're building your first pest control company or looking to expand into new markets, Donnie’s wisdom will give you fresh perspective, and maybe even a few laughs.  Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow empire builder. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 09 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full 1 9 Matt Williams <p><strong>What if your next big business breakthrough isn’t about better software or slicker ads, but about being more human?</strong></p><p><br></p><p>In this episode of <em>Pest Empire Builder</em>, we sit down with Donnie Bentley, a seasoned home inspector and pest control pro who’s been serving East Tennessee for nearly three decades. Known for his striking Santa Claus resemblance and servant-hearted leadership, Donnie shares how he’s built, and sold, multiple pest control companies, all while keeping one core value at the center: <strong>people over process</strong>.</p><p>This conversation isn’t about chasing the latest trend. It’s about sustainable growth through integrity, strategic partnerships, and a relentless commitment to taking care of others. From launching a radon mitigation business to stringing Christmas lights under the “Santa’s Twinkle” brand, Donnie’s entrepreneurial journey is as unconventional as it is inspiring.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>In this episode, you’ll learn:</strong></p><p>How Donnie turned a legal nightmare into a profitable pest control business<br></p><p>Why home inspection and pest control companies make powerful business allies<br></p><p>The key differences between seasonal, residential, and commercial pest control revenue streams<br></p><p>How old-school customer service still wins in a high-tech world<br></p><p>Why being in the “people business” is more than a catchy phrase—it’s a strategy<br></p><p><strong>“I’m in the taking-care-of-people business. I just happen to do pest control as a means to do that.” – Donnie Bentley</strong></p><p><br></p><p>Whether you&#39;re building your first pest control company or looking to expand into new markets, Donnie’s wisdom will give you fresh perspective—and maybe even a few laughs.</p><p><br></p><p> <strong>Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow empire builder.</strong></p><p><br></p><p>Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. </p><p><a href="mailto:support@pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Email</u></a>: support@pestempirebuilder.com<br><a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Website</u></a></p> What if your next big business breakthrough isn’t about better software or slicker ads, but about being more human? In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, we sit down with Donnie Bentley, a seasoned home inspector and pest control pro who’s been serving East Tennessee for nearly three decades. Known for his striking Santa Claus resemblance and servant-hearted leadership, Donnie shares how he’s built, and sold, multiple pest control companies, all while keeping one core value at the center: people over process. This conversation isn’t about chasing the latest trend. It’s about sustainable growth through integrity, strategic partnerships, and a relentless commitment to taking care of others. From launching a radon mitigation business to stringing Christmas lights under the “Santa’s Twinkle” brand, Donnie’s entrepreneurial journey is as unconventional as it is inspiring. In this episode, you’ll learn: → How Donnie turned a legal nightmare into a profitable pest control business → Why home inspection and pest control companies make powerful business allies → The key differences between seasonal, residential, and commercial pest control revenue streams → How old-school customer service still wins in a high-tech world → Why being in the “people business” is more than a catchy phrase, it’s a strategy “I’m in the taking-care-of-people business. I just happen to do pest control as a means to do that.” – Donnie Bentley Whether you're building your first pest control company or looking to expand into new markets, Donnie’s wisdom will give you fresh perspective, and maybe even a few laughs.  Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow empire builder. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What if your next big business breakthrough isn’t about better software or slicker ads, but about being more human?

In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, we sit down with Donnie Bentley, a seasoned home inspector and pest control pro who’s been serving East Tennessee for nearly three decades. Known for his striking Santa Claus resemblance and servant-hearted leadership, Donnie shares how he’s built, and sold, multiple pest control companies, all while keeping one core value at the center: people over process.

This conversation isn’t about chasing the latest trend. It’s about sustainable growth through integrity, strategic partnerships, and a relentless commitment to taking care of others. From launching a radon mitigation business to stringing Christmas lights under the “Santa’s Twinkle” brand, Donnie’s entrepreneurial journey is as unconventional as it is inspiring.


In this episode, you’ll learn:

→ How Donnie turned a legal nightmare into a profitable pest control business

→ Why home inspection and pest control companies make powerful business allies

→ The key differences between seasonal, residential, and commercial pest control revenue streams

→ How old-school customer service still wins in a high-tech world

→ Why being in the “people business” is more than a catchy phrase, it’s a strategy

“I’m in the taking-care-of-people business. I just happen to do pest control as a means to do that.” – Donnie Bentley


Whether you're building your first pest control company or looking to expand into new markets, Donnie’s wisdom will give you fresh perspective, and maybe even a few laughs.

 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow empire builder.


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email
Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 1790 no From Local to Legacy: How One Fire Ignited a National Franchise Vision https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/From-Local-to-Legacy-How-One-Fire-Ignited-a-National-Franchise-Vision-e38uv7m What does it take to grow a pest control business from a one-man operation in a small Ohio town to a multi-state franchise? In this powerful episode, we dive into the grit, resilience, and vision required to scale beyond borders, and why your “setback” might just be your greatest setup. This week on the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, host Matt Williams sits down with Anthony from Complete Pest Solutions, a pest control powerhouse born in Youngstown, Ohio. Anthony shares his raw and inspiring journey, from managing a large team, surviving a devastating fire that wiped out his equipment and vehicles, to rebooting his business with a clear, hard-earned blueprint. But the real gem? How he turned adversity into opportunity by launching a franchise model that now empowers others to build their own pest empires, without repeating the same mistakes. If you’ve ever wondered whether franchising could be your next big move, or how to grow while staying rooted in family and community, this episode is for you. Takeaways: → Why a catastrophic fire became the unexpected turning point in Anthony’s business journey → The power of referrals and grassroots marketing in early-stage business growth → How franchising creates opportunity while preserving family and community values → The real costs, and rewards, of building a franchise from scratch → Why being coachable and having grit matter more than financial know-how "You either bow down to it, or you go into the storm and say, ‘We’re going to come out stronger.’”  If this episode sparked something in you, subscribe now and share it with a fellow entrepreneur. Then take 10 minutes to journal: What storm in your business might actually be the setup for your next season of growth? Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 02 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full 1 8 Matt Williams <p>What does it take to grow a pest control business from a one-man operation in a small Ohio town to a multi-state franchise? In this powerful episode, we dive into the grit, resilience, and vision required to scale beyond borders, and why your “setback” might just be your greatest setup.</p><p>This week on the <em>Pest Empire Builder Podcast</em>, host Matt Williams sits down with Anthony from Complete Pest Solutions, a pest control powerhouse born in Youngstown, Ohio. Anthony shares his raw and inspiring journey, from managing a large team, surviving a devastating fire that wiped out his equipment and vehicles, to rebooting his business with a clear, hard-earned blueprint. But the real gem? How he turned adversity into opportunity by launching a franchise model that now empowers others to build their own pest empires, without repeating the same mistakes.</p><p>If you’ve ever wondered whether franchising could be your next big move, or how to grow while staying rooted in family and community, this episode is for you.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Takeaways:</strong></p><p>Why a catastrophic fire became the unexpected turning point in Anthony’s business journey<br></p><p>The power of referrals and grassroots marketing in early-stage business growth<br></p><p>How franchising creates opportunity while preserving family and community values<br></p><p>The real costs, and rewards, of building a franchise from scratch<br></p><p>Why being coachable and having grit matter more than financial know-how<br></p><p><em>&quot;You either bow down to it, or you go into the storm and say, ‘We’re going to come out stronger.’” </em></p><p><br></p><p> If this episode sparked something in you, subscribe now and share it with a fellow entrepreneur. Then take 10 minutes to journal: <em>What storm in your business might actually be the setup for your next season of growth?</em></p><p><br></p><p>Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. </p><p><a href="mailto:support@pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Email</u></a>: support@pestempirebuilder.com</p><p><a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Website</u></a>: <a href="http://www.pestempirebuilder.com/"><u>www.pestempirebuilder.com</u></a><br></p> What does it take to grow a pest control business from a one-man operation in a small Ohio town to a multi-state franchise? In this powerful episode, we dive into the grit, resilience, and vision required to scale beyond borders, and why your “setback” might just be your greatest setup. This week on the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, host Matt Williams sits down with Anthony from Complete Pest Solutions, a pest control powerhouse born in Youngstown, Ohio. Anthony shares his raw and inspiring journey, from managing a large team, surviving a devastating fire that wiped out his equipment and vehicles, to rebooting his business with a clear, hard-earned blueprint. But the real gem? How he turned adversity into opportunity by launching a franchise model that now empowers others to build their own pest empires, without repeating the same mistakes. If you’ve ever wondered whether franchising could be your next big move, or how to grow while staying rooted in family and community, this episode is for you. Takeaways: → Why a catastrophic fire became the unexpected turning point in Anthony’s business journey → The power of referrals and grassroots marketing in early-stage business growth → How franchising creates opportunity while preserving family and community values → The real costs, and rewards, of building a franchise from scratch → Why being coachable and having grit matter more than financial know-how "You either bow down to it, or you go into the storm and say, ‘We’re going to come out stronger.’”  If this episode sparked something in you, subscribe now and share it with a fellow entrepreneur. Then take 10 minutes to journal: What storm in your business might actually be the setup for your next season of growth? Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  EmailWebsite Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices What does it take to grow a pest control business from a one-man operation in a small Ohio town to a multi-state franchise? In this powerful episode, we dive into the grit, resilience, and vision required to scale beyond borders, and why your “setback” might just be your greatest setup.

This week on the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, host Matt Williams sits down with Anthony from Complete Pest Solutions, a pest control powerhouse born in Youngstown, Ohio. Anthony shares his raw and inspiring journey, from managing a large team, surviving a devastating fire that wiped out his equipment and vehicles, to rebooting his business with a clear, hard-earned blueprint. But the real gem? How he turned adversity into opportunity by launching a franchise model that now empowers others to build their own pest empires, without repeating the same mistakes.

If you’ve ever wondered whether franchising could be your next big move, or how to grow while staying rooted in family and community, this episode is for you.


Takeaways:

→ Why a catastrophic fire became the unexpected turning point in Anthony’s business journey

→ The power of referrals and grassroots marketing in early-stage business growth

→ How franchising creates opportunity while preserving family and community values

→ The real costs, and rewards, of building a franchise from scratch

→ Why being coachable and having grit matter more than financial know-how

"You either bow down to it, or you go into the storm and say, ‘We’re going to come out stronger.’” 


If this episode sparked something in you, subscribe now and share it with a fellow entrepreneur. Then take 10 minutes to journal: What storm in your business might actually be the setup for your next season of growth?


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email
Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 3386 no Stop Wasting Money on Marketing: Build a Strategy That Works https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/Stop-Wasting-Money-on-Marketing-Build-a-Strategy-That-Works-e36r7vr Are you throwing money at marketing and seeing nothing in return? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, we tackle a problem every pest control business owner faces: marketing that drains your wallet but doesn’t deliver. Host Matt Williams sits down with Aaron Shishilla from WolfPack Advising to talk straight about what it really takes to grow your business through marketing that actually works. Aaron brings years of experience in digital marketing for pest control and home inspection companies, and he’s not afraid to call out the hard truths. Together, Matt and Aaron unpack why cookie-cutter marketing fails, why most agencies get it wrong, and how you can finally build a customized, holistic strategy that scales your business. Whether you’re a solopreneur juggling calls or an established company ready for growth, this episode will help you stop guessing and start winning. Key Takeaways: → You must build your marketing strategy on your business’s actual strengths, not what’s trending. → No one marketing tool (like SEO or PPC) is a silver bullet, you need a tailored, full-picture approach. → Communication between you and your marketing team is non-negotiable for success. → Social media requires consistency and authenticity, don’t aim for perfection, just be real. → Tracking, feedback, and optimizing based on actual data is the key to ROI. “There’s no magic pill. There’s no ad agency that will save your business without you doing the work too.” - Aaron Shishilla Take a hard look at your current marketing. Are you guessing? Or building with purpose? Share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur, then journal your top 3 marketing strengths, and weaknesses. Oh, and don’t forget to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode that helps you grow your pest control empire. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email: support@pestempirebuilder.comWebsite: www.pestempirebuilder.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 14 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full 1 7 Matt Williams <p><strong>Are you throwing money at marketing and seeing nothing in return?</strong>In this episode of the <em>Pest Empire Builder Podcast</em>, we tackle a problem every pest control business owner faces: marketing that drains your wallet but doesn’t deliver. Host Matt Williams sits down with Aaron Shishilla from WolfPack Advising to talk straight about what it really takes to grow your business through marketing that actually works.</p><p>Aaron brings years of experience in digital marketing for pest control and home inspection companies, and he’s not afraid to call out the hard truths. Together, Matt and Aaron unpack why cookie-cutter marketing fails, why most agencies get it wrong, and how you can finally build a customized, holistic strategy that scales your business.</p><p>Whether you’re a solopreneur juggling calls or an established company ready for growth, this episode will help you stop guessing and start winning.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p><p>You must build your marketing strategy on your <em>business’s actual strengths</em>, not what’s trending.<br></p><p>No one marketing tool (like SEO or PPC) is a silver bullet, you need a tailored, full-picture approach.<br></p><p>Communication between you and your marketing team is non-negotiable for success.<br></p><p>Social media requires consistency and authenticity, don’t aim for perfection, just be real.<br></p><p>Tracking, feedback, and optimizing based on <em>actual</em> data is the key to ROI.<br></p><p>“There’s no magic pill. There’s no ad agency that will save your business without <em>you</em> doing the work too.” - Aaron Shishilla</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Next step?</strong>Take a hard look at your current marketing. Are you guessing? Or building with purpose? Share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur, then journal your top 3 marketing strengths, and weaknesses. Oh, and don’t forget to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode that helps you grow your pest control empire.</p><p><br></p><p>Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. </p><p><a href="mailto:support@pestempirebuilder.com"><u>Email</u></a>: support@pestempirebuilder.com</p> Are you throwing money at marketing and seeing nothing in return? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, we tackle a problem every pest control business owner faces: marketing that drains your wallet but doesn’t deliver. Host Matt Williams sits down with Aaron Shishilla from WolfPack Advising to talk straight about what it really takes to grow your business through marketing that actually works. Aaron brings years of experience in digital marketing for pest control and home inspection companies, and he’s not afraid to call out the hard truths. Together, Matt and Aaron unpack why cookie-cutter marketing fails, why most agencies get it wrong, and how you can finally build a customized, holistic strategy that scales your business. Whether you’re a solopreneur juggling calls or an established company ready for growth, this episode will help you stop guessing and start winning. Key Takeaways: → You must build your marketing strategy on your business’s actual strengths, not what’s trending. → No one marketing tool (like SEO or PPC) is a silver bullet, you need a tailored, full-picture approach. → Communication between you and your marketing team is non-negotiable for success. → Social media requires consistency and authenticity, don’t aim for perfection, just be real. → Tracking, feedback, and optimizing based on actual data is the key to ROI. “There’s no magic pill. There’s no ad agency that will save your business without you doing the work too.” - Aaron Shishilla Take a hard look at your current marketing. Are you guessing? Or building with purpose? Share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur, then journal your top 3 marketing strengths, and weaknesses. Oh, and don’t forget to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode that helps you grow your pest control empire. Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email: support@pestempirebuilder.comWebsite: www.pestempirebuilder.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Are you throwing money at marketing and seeing nothing in return? In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, we tackle a problem every pest control business owner faces: marketing that drains your wallet but doesn’t deliver. Host Matt Williams sits down with Aaron Shishilla from WolfPack Advising to talk straight about what it really takes to grow your business through marketing that actually works.

Aaron brings years of experience in digital marketing for pest control and home inspection companies, and he’s not afraid to call out the hard truths. Together, Matt and Aaron unpack why cookie-cutter marketing fails, why most agencies get it wrong, and how you can finally build a customized, holistic strategy that scales your business.

Whether you’re a solopreneur juggling calls or an established company ready for growth, this episode will help you stop guessing and start winning.


Key Takeaways:

→ You must build your marketing strategy on your business’s actual strengths, not what’s trending.

→ No one marketing tool (like SEO or PPC) is a silver bullet, you need a tailored, full-picture approach.

→ Communication between you and your marketing team is non-negotiable for success.

→ Social media requires consistency and authenticity, don’t aim for perfection, just be real.

→ Tracking, feedback, and optimizing based on actual data is the key to ROI.

“There’s no magic pill. There’s no ad agency that will save your business without you doing the work too.” - Aaron Shishilla


Take a hard look at your current marketing. Are you guessing? Or building with purpose? Share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur, then journal your top 3 marketing strengths, and weaknesses. Oh, and don’t forget to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode that helps you grow your pest control empire.


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email: support@pestempirebuilder.com
Website: www.pestempirebuilder.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 3230 no Digital Goldmine: SEO and Growth for Pest Control Pros https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/Digital-Goldmine-SEO-and-Growth-for-Pest-Control-Pros-e35uonn In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, host Matt Williams welcomes SEO and digital marketing strategist Danny Lebran to break down how pest control businesses can dominate online. From building a powerful Google Business Profile to leveraging Local Service Ads (LSAs), Danny shares actionable steps that home service business owners; especially pest control pros; can take to stand out in a highly competitive market. Danny’s journey from freelance copywriter to industry expert in pest control SEO is both inspiring and practical. He pulls back the curtain on the digital strategies that are actually working today and why many companies are overpaying for mediocre results. This conversation is loaded with wisdom for owners trying to get out of the technician mindset and grow into scalable entrepreneurs. Whether you’re just starting your pest control company or looking to expand, this episode walks through the foundation you need to build, how to avoid common scams, and what marketing investments really produce ROI. If you’ve ever wondered where to start with digital marketing; or if what you’re currently doing is worth it; this episode will give you clarity and direction. Key Takeaways: → Start with Strategy – Define what success means to you before investing in marketing. → Google Business Profile Is Your Foundation – Optimize name, categories, location, and reviews. → Local Service Ads (LSAs) Are a Must – Easy to set up, high-quality leads, and only pay per qualified call. → Watch Out for Overpriced Agencies – Many businesses overpay for vague SEO services with no ROI. → Play the Long Game – Think in terms of lifetime customer value, not just initial acquisition cost. "If you’re not ranking well and your business name doesn’t include keywords, that’s going to hurt your visibility; simple as that." – Danny Lebran Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 24 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full 1 6 Matt Williams <p>In this episode of the <em>Pest Empire Builder Podcast</em>, host Matt welcomes SEO and digital marketing strategist Danny Leibrandt to break down how pest control businesses can dominate online. From building a powerful Google Business Profile to leveraging Local Service Ads (LSAs), Danny shares actionable steps that home service business owners; especially pest control pros; can take to stand out in a highly competitive market. Danny’s journey from freelance copywriter to industry expert in pest control SEO is both inspiring and practical. He pulls back the curtain on the digital strategies that are actually working today and why many companies are overpaying for mediocre results.</p><p>This conversation is loaded with wisdom for owners trying to get out of the technician mindset and grow into scalable entrepreneurs. Whether you’re just starting your pest control company or looking to expand, this episode walks through the foundation you need to build, how to avoid common scams, and what marketing investments really produce ROI. If you’ve ever wondered where to start with digital marketing; or if what you’re currently doing is worth it; this episode will give you clarity and direction.</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p><ol><li><p><strong>Start with Strategy</strong> – Define what success means to you before investing in marketing.<br></p></li><li><p><strong>Google Business Profile Is Your Foundation</strong> – Optimize name, categories, location, and reviews.<br></p></li><li><p><strong>Local Service Ads (LSAs) Are a Must</strong> – Easy to set up, high-quality leads, and only pay per qualified call.<br></p></li><li><p><strong>Watch Out for Overpriced Agencies</strong> – Many businesses overpay for vague SEO services with no ROI.<br></p></li><li><p><strong>Play the Long Game</strong> – Think in terms of lifetime customer value, not just initial acquisition cost.</p></li></ol><p> &quot;If you’re not ranking well and your business name doesn’t include keywords, that’s going to hurt your visibility; simple as that.&quot; – Danny Leibrandt</p><p>Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.</p><p>Want to learn more about Matt Williams? Check out the links below. </p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/the.matthew.williams/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Instagram</a></p><p><br>Email: <a href="mailto:matt@dciabq.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">matt@dciabq.com</a></p> In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, host Matt Williams welcomes SEO and digital marketing strategist Danny Lebran to break down how pest control businesses can dominate online. From building a powerful Google Business Profile to leveraging Local Service Ads (LSAs), Danny shares actionable steps that home service business owners; especially pest control pros; can take to stand out in a highly competitive market. Danny’s journey from freelance copywriter to industry expert in pest control SEO is both inspiring and practical. He pulls back the curtain on the digital strategies that are actually working today and why many companies are overpaying for mediocre results. This conversation is loaded with wisdom for owners trying to get out of the technician mindset and grow into scalable entrepreneurs. Whether you’re just starting your pest control company or looking to expand, this episode walks through the foundation you need to build, how to avoid common scams, and what marketing investments really produce ROI. If you’ve ever wondered where to start with digital marketing; or if what you’re currently doing is worth it; this episode will give you clarity and direction. Key Takeaways: → Start with Strategy – Define what success means to you before investing in marketing. → Google Business Profile Is Your Foundation – Optimize name, categories, location, and reviews. → Local Service Ads (LSAs) Are a Must – Easy to set up, high-quality leads, and only pay per qualified call. → Watch Out for Overpriced Agencies – Many businesses overpay for vague SEO services with no ROI. → Play the Long Game – Think in terms of lifetime customer value, not just initial acquisition cost. "If you’re not ranking well and your business name doesn’t include keywords, that’s going to hurt your visibility; simple as that." – Danny Lebran Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder Podcast, host Matt Williams welcomes SEO and digital marketing strategist Danny Lebran to break down how pest control businesses can dominate online. From building a powerful Google Business Profile to leveraging Local Service Ads (LSAs), Danny shares actionable steps that home service business owners; especially pest control pros; can take to stand out in a highly competitive market. Danny’s journey from freelance copywriter to industry expert in pest control SEO is both inspiring and practical. He pulls back the curtain on the digital strategies that are actually working today and why many companies are overpaying for mediocre results.

This conversation is loaded with wisdom for owners trying to get out of the technician mindset and grow into scalable entrepreneurs. Whether you’re just starting your pest control company or looking to expand, this episode walks through the foundation you need to build, how to avoid common scams, and what marketing investments really produce ROI. If you’ve ever wondered where to start with digital marketing; or if what you’re currently doing is worth it; this episode will give you clarity and direction.


Key Takeaways:

→ Start with Strategy – Define what success means to you before investing in marketing.

→ Google Business Profile Is Your Foundation – Optimize name, categories, location, and reviews.

→ Local Service Ads (LSAs) Are a Must – Easy to set up, high-quality leads, and only pay per qualified call.

→ Watch Out for Overpriced Agencies – Many businesses overpay for vague SEO services with no ROI.

→ Play the Long Game – Think in terms of lifetime customer value, not just initial acquisition cost.


"If you’re not ranking well and your business name doesn’t include keywords, that’s going to hurt your visibility; simple as that." – Danny Lebran


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email

Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 3369 no Empathy and Problem-Solving in Business with Rob Greer https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/Empathy-and-Problem-Solving-in-Business-with-Rob-Greer-e354d82 Join host Matt Williams on the Pest Empire Builder podcast as he talks with Rob Grier, COO of Rove Pest Control and co-author of Empathy and Understanding in Business with FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss. Rob shares his journey growing Rove from a single branch to a five-state operation with 75 technicians and over 15,000 customers. He dives into the power of empathy in business, recounting how curiosity and key questioning turned around a struggling employee by aligning on shared values. Rob also discusses the importance of simplifying complex problems, building trust through vulnerability, and letting go as a leader to empower teams. From his ultra-marathon experiences to coaching high school cross country, Rob’s insights on leadership and resilience will inspire business owners to foster stronger cultures and solve problems effectively. Key Takeaways → Empathy in Action: Use curiosity and questioning to uncover shared values and turn around team conflicts. → Simplify Problems: Peel back layers of complexity to focus on core issues, whether with staff or customers. → Letting Go: Delegating to capable leaders reduces micromanagement and drives organizational efficiency. → Vulnerability Builds Trust: Exposing yourself to risk fosters trust, improving teamwork and customer service. → Vision and Culture: Leaders must communicate a clear vision to align teams across all business functions. "Simplify the noise to find the heart of the problem; then solve it with empathy."  Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 17 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full 1 5 Matt Williams <p>Join host Matt Williams on the <em>PEST Empire Builder</em> podcast as he talks with Rob Greer, COO of Rove Pest Control and co-author of <em>Empathy and Understanding in Business</em> with FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss. Rob shares his journey growing Rove from a single branch to a five-state operation with 75 technicians and over 15,000 customers. He dives into the power of empathy in business, recounting how curiosity and key questioning turned around a struggling employee by aligning on shared values. Rob also discusses the importance of simplifying complex problems, building trust through vulnerability, and letting go as a leader to empower teams. From his ultra-marathon experiences to coaching high school cross country, Rob’s insights on leadership and resilience will inspire business owners to foster stronger cultures and solve problems effectively.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Takeaways</p><p>Empathy in Action: Use curiosity and questioning to uncover shared values and turn around team conflicts.</p><p>Simplify Problems: Peel back layers of complexity to focus on core issues, whether with staff or customers.</p><p>Letting Go: Delegating to capable leaders reduces micromanagement and drives organizational efficiency.</p><p>Vulnerability Builds Trust: Exposing yourself to risk fosters trust, improving teamwork and customer service.</p><p>Vision and Culture: Leaders must communicate a clear vision to align teams across all business functions.</p><p><br></p><p>&quot;Simplify the noise to find the heart of the problem; then solve it with empathy.&quot; </p> Join host Matt Williams on the Pest Empire Builder podcast as he talks with Rob Grier, COO of Rove Pest Control and co-author of Empathy and Understanding in Business with FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss. Rob shares his journey growing Rove from a single branch to a five-state operation with 75 technicians and over 15,000 customers. He dives into the power of empathy in business, recounting how curiosity and key questioning turned around a struggling employee by aligning on shared values. Rob also discusses the importance of simplifying complex problems, building trust through vulnerability, and letting go as a leader to empower teams. From his ultra-marathon experiences to coaching high school cross country, Rob’s insights on leadership and resilience will inspire business owners to foster stronger cultures and solve problems effectively. Key Takeaways → Empathy in Action: Use curiosity and questioning to uncover shared values and turn around team conflicts. → Simplify Problems: Peel back layers of complexity to focus on core issues, whether with staff or customers. → Letting Go: Delegating to capable leaders reduces micromanagement and drives organizational efficiency. → Vulnerability Builds Trust: Exposing yourself to risk fosters trust, improving teamwork and customer service. → Vision and Culture: Leaders must communicate a clear vision to align teams across all business functions. "Simplify the noise to find the heart of the problem; then solve it with empathy."  Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Join host Matt Williams on the Pest Empire Builder podcast as he talks with Rob Grier, COO of Rove Pest Control and co-author of Empathy and Understanding in Business with FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss. Rob shares his journey growing Rove from a single branch to a five-state operation with 75 technicians and over 15,000 customers. He dives into the power of empathy in business, recounting how curiosity and key questioning turned around a struggling employee by aligning on shared values. Rob also discusses the importance of simplifying complex problems, building trust through vulnerability, and letting go as a leader to empower teams. From his ultra-marathon experiences to coaching high school cross country, Rob’s insights on leadership and resilience will inspire business owners to foster stronger cultures and solve problems effectively.


Key Takeaways

→ Empathy in Action: Use curiosity and questioning to uncover shared values and turn around team conflicts.

→ Simplify Problems: Peel back layers of complexity to focus on core issues, whether with staff or customers.

→ Letting Go: Delegating to capable leaders reduces micromanagement and drives organizational efficiency.

→ Vulnerability Builds Trust: Exposing yourself to risk fosters trust, improving teamwork and customer service.

→ Vision and Culture: Leaders must communicate a clear vision to align teams across all business functions.


"Simplify the noise to find the heart of the problem; then solve it with empathy." 


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email

Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 3197 no Mastering Door-to-Door Sales with Lenny Gray https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/Mastering-Door-to-Door-Sales-with-Lenny-Gray-e35brv7 In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder podcast, host Matt Williams sits down with Lenny Gray, a door-to-door sales expert, author, and coach who built and sold a successful pest control company using door-to-door strategies. Lenny shares his journey from knocking doors to pay for college to becoming a top performer at Orkin, earning Rookie of the Year and making $50,000 in 1998. He reveals the three core principles of door-to-door success; hard work, mental toughness, and commitment; and explains how to overcome the fear and rejection that come with knocking on 600 doors to find your groove. Lenny also discusses his ethical, relationship-focused approach to sales, which has helped him train reps across industries like pest control, solar, and alarms.  Key Takeaways → Core Principles: Hard work, mental toughness, and commitment are essential to succeed in door-to-door sales. → Learning Curve: Talk to 600 people (about 50 per day, six days a week) to master the process and find your rhythm. → Ethical Sales: Lenny’s scripts and systems emphasize integrity, building long-term customer relationships rather than quick sales. → Efficiency Boost: Door-to-door sales can densify client bases, reducing technician windshield time and increasing profitability. → Life Skills: Door-to-door hones communication and resilience, skills that translate to any career or industry. "If you’re willing to knock doors, I’ll make you able with systems that work." Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 10 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full 1 4 Matt Williams <p>In this episode of the PEST Empire Builder podcast, host Matt Williams sits down with Lenny Gray, a door-to-door sales expert, author, and coach who built and sold a successful pest control company using door-to-door strategies. Lenny shares his journey from knocking doors to pay for college to becoming a top performer at Orkin, earning Rookie of the Year and making $50,000 in 1998. He reveals the three core principles of door-to-door success; hard work, mental toughness, and commitment; and explains how to overcome the fear and rejection that come with knocking on 600 doors to find your groove. Lenny also discusses his ethical, relationship-focused approach to sales, which has helped him train reps across industries like pest control, solar, and alarms. </p><p><br></p><p>Key Takeaways</p><p>Core Principles: Hard work, mental toughness, and commitment are essential to succeed in door-to-door sales.</p><p>Learning Curve: Talk to 600 people (about 50 per day, six days a week) to master the process and find your rhythm.</p><p>Ethical Sales: Lenny’s scripts and systems emphasize integrity, building long-term customer relationships rather than quick sales.</p><p>Efficiency Boost: Door-to-door sales can densify client bases, reducing technician windshield time and increasing profitability.</p><p>Life Skills: Door-to-door hones communication and resilience, skills that translate to any career or industry.</p><p><br></p><p>&quot;If you’re willing to knock doors, I’ll make you able with systems that work.&quot;</p> In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder podcast, host Matt Williams sits down with Lenny Gray, a door-to-door sales expert, author, and coach who built and sold a successful pest control company using door-to-door strategies. Lenny shares his journey from knocking doors to pay for college to becoming a top performer at Orkin, earning Rookie of the Year and making $50,000 in 1998. He reveals the three core principles of door-to-door success; hard work, mental toughness, and commitment; and explains how to overcome the fear and rejection that come with knocking on 600 doors to find your groove. Lenny also discusses his ethical, relationship-focused approach to sales, which has helped him train reps across industries like pest control, solar, and alarms.  Key Takeaways → Core Principles: Hard work, mental toughness, and commitment are essential to succeed in door-to-door sales. → Learning Curve: Talk to 600 people (about 50 per day, six days a week) to master the process and find your rhythm. → Ethical Sales: Lenny’s scripts and systems emphasize integrity, building long-term customer relationships rather than quick sales. → Efficiency Boost: Door-to-door sales can densify client bases, reducing technician windshield time and increasing profitability. → Life Skills: Door-to-door hones communication and resilience, skills that translate to any career or industry. "If you’re willing to knock doors, I’ll make you able with systems that work." Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode of the Pest Empire Builder podcast, host Matt Williams sits down with Lenny Gray, a door-to-door sales expert, author, and coach who built and sold a successful pest control company using door-to-door strategies. Lenny shares his journey from knocking doors to pay for college to becoming a top performer at Orkin, earning Rookie of the Year and making $50,000 in 1998. He reveals the three core principles of door-to-door success; hard work, mental toughness, and commitment; and explains how to overcome the fear and rejection that come with knocking on 600 doors to find your groove. Lenny also discusses his ethical, relationship-focused approach to sales, which has helped him train reps across industries like pest control, solar, and alarms. 


Key Takeaways

→ Core Principles: Hard work, mental toughness, and commitment are essential to succeed in door-to-door sales.

→ Learning Curve: Talk to 600 people (about 50 per day, six days a week) to master the process and find your rhythm.

→ Ethical Sales: Lenny’s scripts and systems emphasize integrity, building long-term customer relationships rather than quick sales.

→ Efficiency Boost: Door-to-door sales can densify client bases, reducing technician windshield time and increasing profitability.

→ Life Skills: Door-to-door hones communication and resilience, skills that translate to any career or industry.


"If you’re willing to knock doors, I’ll make you able with systems that work."


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email

Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2694 no Cultivating a Winning Company Culture https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/Cultivating-a-Winning-Company-Culture-e34ejhu In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, host Matt Williams continues his conversation with Steven, General Manager of Pest Nation, diving deeper into creating a phenomenal company culture that drives business success. Steven shares powerful stories of team unity, like employees rallying to support a colleague during a family crisis, showcasing how a strong culture extends beyond the workplace. He discusses the importance of a robust on-boarding process involving multiple team members to ensure alignment and clear expectations. Steven also reflects on the costly lessons of pride-driven hiring mistakes and the transformative power of humility in leadership. Highlighting the Pest Empire Builder (PEB) mastermind, he explains how diverse perspectives from the community help leaders and teams overcome challenges and scale effectively. This episode is packed with insights for leaders seeking to foster loyalty, accountability, and personal growth within their organizations. Key Takeaways: → Strong Onboarding: Involve multiple team members in interviews to build relationships and set clear expectations. → Humility in Leadership: Owning mistakes and staying coachable prevents ego from derailing progress. → Supportive Culture: Encouraging personal growth and mutual support creates loyalty and stability. → Community Value: PEB’s mastermind offers shared solutions and camaraderie to navigate growth pains. → Approach with Curiosity: Listen to understand employees’ challenges to resolve conflicts and strengthen trust. “I care more about you than what you do, building people creates a culture that lasts.” - Matt Williams Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email: support@pestempirebuilder.com Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full 1 3 Matt Williams <p>In this episode of <em>Pest Empire Builder</em>, host Matt Williams continues his conversation with Steven, General Manager of Pest Nation, diving deeper into creating a phenomenal company culture that drives business success. Steven shares powerful stories of team unity, like employees rallying to support a colleague during a family crisis, showcasing how a strong culture extends beyond the workplace. He discusses the importance of a robust onboarding process involving multiple team members to ensure alignment and clear expectations. Steven also reflects on the costly lessons of pride-driven hiring mistakes and the transformative power of humility in leadership. Highlighting the Pest Empire Builder (PEB) mastermind, he explains how diverse perspectives from the community help leaders and teams overcome challenges and scale effectively. This episode is packed with insights for leaders seeking to foster loyalty, accountability, and personal growth within their organizations.</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways</strong>:</p><li><p><strong>Strong Onboarding</strong>: Involve multiple team members in interviews to build relationships and set clear expectations.</p></li><li><p><strong>Humility in Leadership</strong>: Owning mistakes and staying coachable prevents ego from derailing progress.</p></li><li><p><strong>Supportive Culture</strong>: Encouraging personal growth and mutual support creates loyalty and stability.</p></li><li><p><strong>Community Value</strong>: PEB’s mastermind offers shared solutions and camaraderie to navigate growth pains.</p></li><li><p><strong>Approach with Curiosity</strong>: Listen to understand employees’ challenges to resolve conflicts and strengthen trust.</p></li><p><strong>Quote</strong>:“I care more about you than what you do, building people creates a culture that lasts.” — Matt Williams</p> In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, host Matt Williams continues his conversation with Steven, General Manager of Pest Nation, diving deeper into creating a phenomenal company culture that drives business success. Steven shares powerful stories of team unity, like employees rallying to support a colleague during a family crisis, showcasing how a strong culture extends beyond the workplace. He discusses the importance of a robust on-boarding process involving multiple team members to ensure alignment and clear expectations. Steven also reflects on the costly lessons of pride-driven hiring mistakes and the transformative power of humility in leadership. Highlighting the Pest Empire Builder (PEB) mastermind, he explains how diverse perspectives from the community help leaders and teams overcome challenges and scale effectively. This episode is packed with insights for leaders seeking to foster loyalty, accountability, and personal growth within their organizations. Key Takeaways: → Strong Onboarding: Involve multiple team members in interviews to build relationships and set clear expectations. → Humility in Leadership: Owning mistakes and staying coachable prevents ego from derailing progress. → Supportive Culture: Encouraging personal growth and mutual support creates loyalty and stability. → Community Value: PEB’s mastermind offers shared solutions and camaraderie to navigate growth pains. → Approach with Curiosity: Listen to understand employees’ challenges to resolve conflicts and strengthen trust. “I care more about you than what you do, building people creates a culture that lasts.” - Matt Williams Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email: support@pestempirebuilder.com Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In this episode of Pest Empire Builder, host Matt Williams continues his conversation with Steven, General Manager of Pest Nation, diving deeper into creating a phenomenal company culture that drives business success. Steven shares powerful stories of team unity, like employees rallying to support a colleague during a family crisis, showcasing how a strong culture extends beyond the workplace. He discusses the importance of a robust on-boarding process involving multiple team members to ensure alignment and clear expectations. Steven also reflects on the costly lessons of pride-driven hiring mistakes and the transformative power of humility in leadership. Highlighting the Pest Empire Builder (PEB) mastermind, he explains how diverse perspectives from the community help leaders and teams overcome challenges and scale effectively. This episode is packed with insights for leaders seeking to foster loyalty, accountability, and personal growth within their organizations.

Key Takeaways:

→ Strong Onboarding: Involve multiple team members in interviews to build relationships and set clear expectations.

→ Humility in Leadership: Owning mistakes and staying coachable prevents ego from derailing progress.

→ Supportive Culture: Encouraging personal growth and mutual support creates loyalty and stability.

→ Community Value: PEB’s mastermind offers shared solutions and camaraderie to navigate growth pains.

→ Approach with Curiosity: Listen to understand employees’ challenges to resolve conflicts and strengthen trust.

“I care more about you than what you do, building people creates a culture that lasts.” - Matt Williams


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email: support@pestempirebuilder.com

Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 2665 no Scaling with Systems and Culture https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/Scaling-with-Systems-and-Culture-e34egrp In the premiere episode of Pest Empire Builder, host Matt Williams introduces Steven, General Manager of Pest Nation, to discuss scaling a pest control business through effective systems and a strong company culture. With 15 years in the industry, Steven shares his journey from North Carolina to leading Pest Nation’s expansion into Atlanta, Orlando, and Nashville. He emphasizes simplifying sales processes using cost-effective tools like Google’s suite to reduce friction and overhead. Steven highlights the power of listening to frontline employees to identify inefficiencies and empowering teams to build their own systems, fostering accountability and trust. Through stories of transparent leadership and the value of mastermind groups like Pest Empire Builder (PEB), this episode offers actionable insights for business owners aiming to grow efficiently while cultivating a supportive team environment. Key Takeaways: → Simplify Processes: Use simple, existing tools to streamline sales and operations for scalability. → Empower Employees: Grant teams authority to refine systems, reducing bottlenecks and building ownership. → Listen Actively: Frontline feedback reveals critical pain points to improve efficiency. → Build Trust: Transparent, humble leadership aligns departments and drives collective success. → Leverage Community: Mastermind groups like PEB provide strategies and perspectives to accelerate growth. “Keep it simple and listen to your people, they’ll show you where the friction is.” Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Thu, 26 Jun 2025 14:49:00 -0000 full 1 2 Matt Williams <p>In the premiere episode of <em>Pest Empire Builder</em>, host Matt Williams introduces Steven, General Manager of Pest Nation, to discuss scaling a pest control business through effective systems and a strong company culture. With 15 years in the industry, Steven shares his journey from North Carolina to leading Pest Nation’s expansion into Atlanta, Orlando, and Nashville. He emphasizes simplifying sales processes using cost-effective tools like Google’s suite to reduce friction and overhead. Steven highlights the power of listening to frontline employees to identify inefficiencies and empowering teams to build their own systems, fostering accountability and trust. Through stories of transparent leadership and the value of mastermind groups like Pest Empire Builder (PEB), this episode offers actionable insights for business owners aiming to grow efficiently while cultivating a supportive team environment.</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways</strong>:</p><li><p><strong>Simplify Processes</strong>: Use simple, existing tools to streamline sales and operations for scalability.</p></li><li><p><strong>Empower Employees</strong>: Grant teams authority to refine systems, reducing bottlenecks and building ownership.</p></li><li><p><strong>Listen Actively</strong>: Frontline feedback reveals critical pain points to improve efficiency.</p></li><li><p><strong>Build Trust</strong>: Transparent, humble leadership aligns departments and drives collective success.</p></li><li><p><strong>Leverage Community</strong>: Mastermind groups like PEB provide strategies and perspectives to accelerate growth.</p></li><p>“Keep it simple and listen to your people—they’ll show you where the friction is.” — Steven</p><p><br></p> In the premiere episode of Pest Empire Builder, host Matt Williams introduces Steven, General Manager of Pest Nation, to discuss scaling a pest control business through effective systems and a strong company culture. With 15 years in the industry, Steven shares his journey from North Carolina to leading Pest Nation’s expansion into Atlanta, Orlando, and Nashville. He emphasizes simplifying sales processes using cost-effective tools like Google’s suite to reduce friction and overhead. Steven highlights the power of listening to frontline employees to identify inefficiencies and empowering teams to build their own systems, fostering accountability and trust. Through stories of transparent leadership and the value of mastermind groups like Pest Empire Builder (PEB), this episode offers actionable insights for business owners aiming to grow efficiently while cultivating a supportive team environment. Key Takeaways: → Simplify Processes: Use simple, existing tools to streamline sales and operations for scalability. → Empower Employees: Grant teams authority to refine systems, reducing bottlenecks and building ownership. → Listen Actively: Frontline feedback reveals critical pain points to improve efficiency. → Build Trust: Transparent, humble leadership aligns departments and drives collective success. → Leverage Community: Mastermind groups like PEB provide strategies and perspectives to accelerate growth. “Keep it simple and listen to your people, they’ll show you where the friction is.” Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below.  Email Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices In the premiere episode of Pest Empire Builder, host Matt Williams introduces Steven, General Manager of Pest Nation, to discuss scaling a pest control business through effective systems and a strong company culture. With 15 years in the industry, Steven shares his journey from North Carolina to leading Pest Nation’s expansion into Atlanta, Orlando, and Nashville. He emphasizes simplifying sales processes using cost-effective tools like Google’s suite to reduce friction and overhead. Steven highlights the power of listening to frontline employees to identify inefficiencies and empowering teams to build their own systems, fostering accountability and trust. Through stories of transparent leadership and the value of mastermind groups like Pest Empire Builder (PEB), this episode offers actionable insights for business owners aiming to grow efficiently while cultivating a supportive team environment.


Key Takeaways:

→ Simplify Processes: Use simple, existing tools to streamline sales and operations for scalability.

→ Empower Employees: Grant teams authority to refine systems, reducing bottlenecks and building ownership.

→ Listen Actively: Frontline feedback reveals critical pain points to improve efficiency.

→ Build Trust: Transparent, humble leadership aligns departments and drives collective success.

→ Leverage Community: Mastermind groups like PEB provide strategies and perspectives to accelerate growth.


“Keep it simple and listen to your people, they’ll show you where the friction is.”


Want to learn more about PEB? Check out the links below. 

Email

Website

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

]]> 946 no Coming Soon https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/men-of-influence8/episodes/Coming-Soon-e34e8ha The Pest Empire Builder is where pest control professionals come to level up; not just in business, but in mindset, leadership, and legacy. If you’re a pest control company owner who is growing, scaling and refining through your team, this show is your roadmap to time and financial freedom. We'll dive deep into high performing teams, sales, service, operations, a powerful business structure that leads to rapid growth. Every episode is designed to help you stop working in the business and start building a business that works for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Wed, 18 Jun 2025 18:50:01 -0000 trailer 1 1 Matt Williams <p>The Pest Empire Builder is where pest control professionals come to level up; not just in business, but in mindset, leadership, and legacy. If you’re a pest control company owner who is growing, scaling and refining through your team, this show is your roadmap to time and financial freedom. We&#39;ll dive deep into high performing teams, sales, service, operations, a powerful business structure that leads to rapid growth. Every episode is designed to help you stop working in the business and start building a business that works for you.</p> The Pest Empire Builder is where pest control professionals come to level up; not just in business, but in mindset, leadership, and legacy. If you’re a pest control company owner who is growing, scaling and refining through your team, this show is your roadmap to time and financial freedom. We'll dive deep into high performing teams, sales, service, operations, a powerful business structure that leads to rapid growth. Every episode is designed to help you stop working in the business and start building a business that works for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The Pest Empire Builder is where pest control professionals come to level up; not just in business, but in mindset, leadership, and legacy. If you’re a pest control company owner who is growing, scaling and refining through your team, this show is your roadmap to time and financial freedom. We'll dive deep into high performing teams, sales, service, operations, a powerful business structure that leads to rapid growth. Every episode is designed to help you stop working in the business and start building a business that works for you.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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