Grass Roots - Green Industry Pros

Inside Kubota’s Latest Turf & RTV Launches: What Landscape Pros Need to Know

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 15:35:00 -0000

In this episode, Green Industry Pros sits down with Justin Noland, senior product operations manager for Turf and RTV at Kubota, to break down the company’s newest equipment launches revealed at Equip Expo. Nolan highlights the refreshed F2510 front-mount mower and explores the new RTV-X Long Bed, the latest addition to the RTV-X Series. Beyond individual products, Nolan explains how Kubota’s turf, RTV, construction, and tractor lines work together as a one-stop solution for landscapers, contractors, and municipalities—emphasizing durability, cross-platform innovation, and all-season versatility. The episode closes with insights into municipal applications, attachment flexibility, and availability timelines as Kubota looks ahead to 2026 and beyond.

Kubota Tractor Corp. Talks Equip 2024

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:00:00 -0000

A conversation with Women In The Green Industry Up-And-Comer Award Winner Nicolette McCary

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Sarah Webb sits down with Nicolette McCary, co-owner of Seattle Sustainable Landscapes, to learn how she got into the business, what winning this award means for her and more.

Overall Women In The Green Industry Award Winner Deborah Munoz-Chacon Shares Advice

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Sarah Webb sits down with Deborah Munoz-Chacon, president and owner of Sonoran Oasis Landscaping to learn how she has succeeded in business and what advice she has for other women in the industry.

What to Know About Battery-Powered Equipment

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Sarah Webb sits down with Ryan Schwoegler, senior vice president of product management for outdoor power equipment at Milwaukee Tool, and Bradley Berkman, product manager at Milwaukee Tool, to learn how green industry professionals can seamlessly incorporate battery-powered equipment into their operations and reap the benefits of doing so.

Kubota Talks New Mowers, Equip Expo 2023 and More

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Tom Vachal, senior product manager, turf, for Kubota Tractor Corp., discusses Kubota's new ZD1611 and F3710 mowers and how they’re designed to deliver more power, reliability and efficiency to end users. Vachal also touches on why trade shows such as Equip Expo are so important for Kubota and the green industry as a whole.

The 2023 Women In The Green Industry Award Winner Ana Avalos Shares Her Story

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 11:00:00 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Sarah Webb sits down with Ana Avalos, owner of Colorful Impression Landscapes in Santa Rosa, Calif., and winner of the 2023 Women In The Green Industry Award winner, to discuss how she got her start in the industry, what it means to be a woman in the green industry, her advice for other women in landscaping and much more.

Fill Your Bench with These Recruiting Strategies

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 12:00:00 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Sarah Webb sits down with Jay Worth, marketing manager at SingleOps, to discuss what tactics and strategies landscape companies can implement to recruit and retain more employees.

Making the Most of Attachments

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Sarah Webb sits down with Brant Kukak, product manager for compact equipment at Ditch Witch, about how attachments can help green industry pros with tree care, what they should consider before adding them to their arsenal and more

Upping Efficiency With Fleet Management Software

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Sarah Webb sits down with Ashlee Biggs, head of product marketing at Fleetio, to discuss how fleet management software can help landscape companies become more efficient, what they should consider before landing on a software and more.

Overcoming Supply Chain Issues

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Sarah Webb sits down with Christin (CJ) Wam, senior director of marketing for Turf & Consumer Products at Briggs & Stratton, to discus how green industry professionals can get ahead of the supply chain issues by performing preventive maintenance and ordering necessary parts head of time.

A Conversation with Women in the Green Industry Award Winner Linda Nelson

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Sarah Webb chats with Linda Nelson, president of Greenscapes in Naples, Fla., and winner of Green Industry Pros’ inaugural Women in the Green Industry Award. Nelson talks about barriers she’s faced throughout her career, what the green industry can do to encourage more women to step into the industry and more.

Make The Most Of UTV Attachments

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Sarah Webb sat down with John Deere Go-To-Market Manager Maureen McCormack, who breaks down how green industry professionals can implement UTV attachments to streamline their operation and boost their bottom line.

There’s a Different Mower for Everybody

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Aaron Griffith, National Sales Manager of Professional Products at Cub Cadet, discusses what autonomous mowers can do in the lawn and landscaping industry. Whether it’s following GPS for perfect stripes or cutting down on time at the jobsite, autonomous mowers can help save time and deliver a better mow, he says. Cub Cadet’s SurePath is a semi-autonomous mower that contractors can use now that’s easy to use and can increase productivity by more than 12%.

Put More Horsepower Into the Ground

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0000

It seems like everyone in the green industry is struggling with the workforce shortage these days. Brent Kukuk, product manager at Ditch Witch, talks about what machines can do to make lawn and landscape contractors’ lives easier. Jobs that normally would require the work of two or three people can be done with one person if the correct machine is used, he says.

Adding Tech to Your Lawn and Landscaping Jobs

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 12:00:00 -0000

Nicole Henry, business development representative at CompanyCam, shares what CompanyCam does, the app features and what’s new with the startup that helps lawn and landscape companies document jobs.

E 62: FX Luminaire Sheds Some Light on Design

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Green Industry Pros’ Grass Roots, Editor Ryan Whisner sheds some light on the subject of landscape lighting design. FX Luminaire Web Development Manager Scott Allison highlights the company’s free digital tool called My Design, a free program that eliminates the need for multiple pieces of software to design landscape lighting systems.

E 61: A Little About LIfe-scaping

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Green Industry Pros’ Grass Roots, Editor Ryan Whisner talks to Monique Allen, author of “Stop Landscaping Start Life-Scaping, A Guide to Ending the Rush-rush, Humdrum Approach to Landscape Development and Care,” about some of the steps small businesses can take to have a win for the planet, people and profits. Allen highlights the concept of life-scaping and how it is about elevating the entire industry to more success. For more information visit https://www.thegardencontinuum.com

E 60: The Life Cycle of a Raindrop

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 18:18:00 -0000

In this episode of Green Industry Pros’ Grass Roots, Editor Ryan Whisner concludes a three-part series on drainage with ADS product marketing management and marketing executive vice president Brian King to discuss some of the solutions used in providing drainage services.

E 59: How to Use NDS to Become an Expert in Drainage

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Green Industry Pros’ Grass Roots, Editor Ryan Whisner dives into the second part of the three-part series on drainage. The series began with episode 58 with a discussion with SiteOne Landscape Supply product marketing manager Matt Mikucki to discuss the concept of adding drainage as a service. For this episode, we’re focused on the education of contractors on drainage services through opportunities offered by NDS. The third segment will focus on a discussion with ADS about some of the equipment used in addressing drainage issues.

E 58: Keeping Up With the Drainage Flow

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Green Industry Pros’ Grass Roots, Editor Ryan Whisner begins a three-part series on drainage with Site One irrigation product marketing manager Matt Mikucki to discuss the potential benefits of adding drainage as a service. Subsequent episodes will include educational opportunities through SiteOne and NDS and more about some of the equipment utilized in adding the service.

E 57: Greenzie Ready to Bring Robotics To Commercial Mowing

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Green Industry Pros’ Grass Roots, Editor Ryan Whisner discusses the latest developments in robotic mowing with Greenzie CEO and co-founder Charles Brian Quinn. The kit developed by the Greenzie team enables commercial mowers to be operated autonomously. Through a partnership with Wright Manufacturing, this technology is coming closer to being available to contractors.

E 56: Digging In with Ditch Witch

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Green Industry Pros’ Grass Roots, Editor Ryan Whisner talks to Brant Kukuk, compact equipment product manager, and Chapman Hancock, product marketing manager, vacuum excavators, from Ditch Witch about the variety of benefits and uses of vacuum excavators and stand-on or mini skid steers in the green industry.

E: 55 He Wants to Mow Your Lawn

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Brian Schwartz was laid off from his job amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. On a whim, he started a free lawn mowing service for seniors age 65 and up. I Want to Mow Your Lawn is now a 501©3 not for profit organization that has built momentum across the country. Based on volunteers, he is reaching out to the landscape business community to participate in the program. On this weeks’ edition of the Grass Roots Podcast, Schwartz shares his story with Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner.

E 54: Weed Man Takes on Mosquitos With New Sub-Brand

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Earlier this year, Weed Man officially expanded its service offerings with its own sub-brand Mosquito Hero. On this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Weed Man CEO Jennifer Lemcke introduces the Mosquito Hero sub brand and its potential benefits for the Weed Man franchisees. She discusses the reason behind the development of the sub-brand and how it fits into the overall service offerings for franchisees.

E 53: Bringing a Backyard Paradise To Your Customers

Thu, 27 May 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Research shows simply spending time in nature, which can start in your backyard, is good for reducing stress, boosting heart health, boosting Vitamin D levels, and enhancing memory. Thanks to the family yard, the health and well-being benefits of being outside are just a few steps away. Kris Kiser, Outdoor Power Equipment Institute president and CEO, defines this as “backyarding,” referring to the trend to move many indoor activities, from working in an office or classroom to dining and recreation, to the outdoors. Over the past year, backyards and other managed landscapes became a haven for social gatherings, work, play and relaxation. In this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Kiser shares his thoughts on the future of “backyarding” and the trend’s impact on landscape contractors.

E 52: Grounded in a Landscaping Franchise

Thu, 13 May 2021 12:00:00 -0000

Small business owners across the country were doing everything they could to keep things afloat despite the ongoing pandemic. For Tricia Capps, owner of The Ground Guys of Waco, her business was just starting. Finalizing the investment into the Neighborly Ground Guys franchise in March 2020, she proceeded to advance in opening despite the challenges of the pandemic.

E 51: Proper Maintenance Is Part of Chainsaw Safety

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Overall, a safety culture within any landscaping or tree care operation is vital, particularly when chainsaws are regularly being utilized. To learn more about the importance of safety in relation to chainsaws, Green industry Pros Editor Ryan Whisner sat down with STIHL product manager John Allen; Husqvarna senior brand manager for professional chainsaws and cutting equipment Ben McDermott and ECHO chainsaw product manager Jason Wilk for a panel discussion on the topic. On the last episode, the panel focused on personal protective equipment and training. On today’s episode, we pick back up with the panel discussion as they continue their discussion on safety and discuss the importance of proper chainsaw maintenance.

E 50: How to Keep Your Number One Assets Safe While Using Chainsaws

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Safety, when it comes to chainsaws is a mix of personal protective equipment (PPE), training and proper maintenance. To learn more about the importance of safety in relation to chainsaws, Green industry Pros Editor Ryan Whisner sat down with STIHL product manager John Allen; Husqvarna senior brand manager for professional chainsaws and cutting equipment Ben McDermott and ECHO chainsaw product manager Jason Wilk for a panel discussion on the topic. The panel discussion has been split into two parts to accommodate all the information. On this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, the trio of product managers discuss the importance of PPE and training. Tune in next time as the panel highlights the importance of chainsaw maintenance.

E 49: Protect Your Customers From Ticks and Mosquitos

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 13:00:00 -0000

Warmer, humid weather brings out ticks and mosquitos. The most vulnerable months for tick and mosquito bites is April through September. On this edition of the Grass Roots podcast, Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner discusses the addition of mosquito and tick control to a lawn care provider’s service options with Mark Wilson, president and founder of Tick Killz.

E: 48 If You Don’t Adopt the Cloud, You’re Toast

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Technology is both a blessing and a curse. It can help a business grow or at times, if implemented incorrectly can wreck it. Managing all the technology it takes to run a business these days can be a challenge. On this edition of the Grass Roots podcast, SquareStack founder and CEO Bill Furlong shares his insights on the importance of using apps to manage your business and highlights a solution offered by SquareStack and GreenIndustryPros.com to simplify the process using GreenApps.

E: 47 Robots Rising

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 12:00:00 -0000

Robotic mowers do a fantastic job of maintaining grass at a specific height of cut and giving commercial and residential sites good curb appeal.In the past few years, consumers and professionals have taken more interest in the use of robotic mowers for a variety of reasons, mainly to offset the cost of labor and looking at the opportunity to have a service that is sustainable or eco-friendly. On this edition of the Grass Roots Podcast, Graze CEO John Vlay shares the latest development of Graze’s first fully autonomous or robotic mower, as well as some of his own insights on the future of robotic mowers in the green industry.

E: 46 No Time for Design

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 12:00:00 -0000

Tilly Design is a woman-owned online service that creates custom landscape plans for outdoor spaces. Originally designed for homeowners to have easier access to a landscape design, their latest product line is strictly for contractors. For those landscape professionals who don’t have the time or knowledge of landscape design, through Tilly they can offer the service to clients. In this episode of the Grass Roots Podcast, Blythe Yost, landscape architect and CEO of Tilly Design and Alexis Sutton, president, discuss how the process works and the benefits for small to mid-size landscape contractors.

E: 45 How to Franchise Water Conservation

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 12:00:00 -0000

Conserva Irrigation was founded in 2010 by Russ Jundt under the concept of conserving the 1.5 million gallons of fresh water wasted daily in the U.S. by inefficient landscape irrigation systems. Now franchised, Convserva Irrigation has grown to more than 100 territories around the country. In this episode of the Grass Roots Podcast, Jundt share the story of Conserva Irrigation while also discussing the current state of the irrigation industry.

E:44 Digging Deep With the Versatility of Vacuum Excavation

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0000

Vacuum excavators can save contractors time, labor and most significantly reduce surface disruption in the excavation process. There are a lot of different applications for vacuum excavators and drills. On this episode of the Grass Roots Podcast, Ditch Witch product managers Chapman Hancock and Cory Maker about the various applications of the vacuum excavators and drills.

E 43: Hey Mom, the Weed Man is Here!

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 14:00:00 -0000

Weed Man recently announced its newest sub-franchisor, ASI Landscape Management. The company is now the official sub-franchisor to drive Weed Man expansion in Florida. On this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Weed Man CEO Jennifer Lemcke shares the story of Weed Man and also introduces ASI Landscape Management’s CEO Joe Chiellini and COO Mark Almeda to discuss the expansion of the franchise.

E 42: Grass, Leaves, General Yard Debris, Burrito It!

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 14:00:00 -0000

Burrito Brands Incorporated introduced the Leaf Burrito, a year-round yard bag in 2015. The company recently opened a new factory in Charlotte, North Carolina and continues to seek to expand with additional factories throughout the United States. For this edition of the Grass Roots Podcast, Leaf Burrito founder Marc Mataya wraps up a discussion on the benefits of the Leaf Burrito and future plans for expansion in the second of a two-part interview.

E 41: Burrito Brands Inc. Is Wrapping Up the Yard Waste

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 22:00:00 -0000

Burrito Brands Incorporated introduced the Leaf Burrito, a year-round yard bag in 2015. The company recently opened a new factory in Charlotte, North Carolina and continues to seek to expand with additional factories throughout the United States. For this edition of the Grass Roots Podcast, Leaf Burrito founder Marc Mataya highlights the benefits of the Leaf Burrito and future plans for expansion in the first part of a two-part interview.

E 40: Belgard is Paving the Way

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 13:00:00 -0000

2020 has been a unique year for all green industry businesses. On this episode of the Grass Roots Podcast, Joe Raboine, director of residential hardscapes at Belgard shares his views on the state of the hardscape industry in 2020 and what the contractors should be thinking about heading into 2021.

E 39: Bobcat Takes It to the Turf

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 13:00:00 -0000

Bobcat Company has built a reputation with compact equipment machines. Hoping to capture additional opportunities within the landscaping industry, the company has unveiled a new line-up of zero-turn mowers in to the landscaping market. In this episode of the Grass Roots Podcast, senior product manager Ron Scheffler of Bobcat Company highlights the new 21-machine line-up of mowers designed with both commercial and residential use in mind.

E 38: Is Graze the Future of Commercial Lawn Mowing?

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 13:00:00 -0000

Graze, a new start-up bringing intelligence, automation and sustainable solutions to commercial landscaping has introduced its new lawn mower model, set to hit markets by 2021. The evolution of the first Graze fully autonomous, electric lawn mower expands the design to increase efficiency and maintenance speed for mid-to-large sized commercial lawns. On this episode of the Grass Roots Podcast, Graze CEO John Vlay highlights the development status of Graze’s mower and his views on the future of commercial lawn mowing.

E 37: Magid is Taking Heat Stress Seriously

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 13:00:00 -0000

Heat stress can be a major issue in active, hot work environments. Eleven people every day fall seriously ill on the job with heat-related issues. A serious health issue costs employers $53,000 per incident and even worse, can be deadly. To combat these issues, Magid, a manufacturer of PPE innovations, has launched a new product line, Magid Cool Powered by Mission that has patented instant cooling technologies to provide heat relief to everyday workers. In addition, Magid is advancing an initiative to create industrial heat safety protocols to help reduce the number of heat-related illnesses in the workplace and on the jobsite. In this episode of the Grass Roots Podcast, Green Industry Pros Editor Ryan Whisner discusses heat illnesses and Magid Cool with product management specialist Adrianna Carrera.

E 36: SingleOps Says the Green Industry is Doing Just Fine with COVID-19

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 13:00:00 -0000

SingleOps, a leading business management software for outdoor service providers, recently released its quarterly report tracking the health of the green industry. A key takeaway from SingleOps’ Q1/Q2 2020 Green Industry Economic Report is that outdoor service companies, including tree care and landscape specialists, have weathered the COVID-19 pandemic fairly well despite some volatility along the way. The complete SingleOps Q1/Q2 Green Industry Economic Report can be found here. In this episode, Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner talks with SingleOPs CEO Sean McCormick about the results of the report and the continued outlook for the green industry.

E 35: GIE+EXPO Looks Ahead to 2021 After Cancelling 2020

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 13:00:00 -0000

Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and continued regulatory uncertainty, the 2020 GIE+EXPO has been cancelled. OPEI and its partners had been monitoring the situation closely and working with state and local authorities to put on the safest show possible this October. However, the unpredictable nature of such a rapidly evolving environment prohibited this year’s show from taking place. In this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner talks with OPEI President Kris Kiser about the final decision to cancel this year’s show and the hopes for 2021.

E 34: Vanguard Electrifies Its Power Solutions

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 13:00:00 -0000

In 2019, Briggs & Stratton took a bold step into the electrification of outdoor power equipment, with intention of remaining as a known provider of power, no matter the source. The first fully integrated and serviceable Vanguard Commercial Lithium-Ion Battery Pack was designed as an electrification solution for OEMs looking for one half-kWh up to 20kWh of power. The battery packs are a critical offering in a marketplace that is increasingly demanding emissions-free and sustainable alternative power sources. In this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner discusses the Vanguard Commercial Battery Pack with Senior Marketing Director Michelle Gross.

E 33: WorkWave Sends Ripples Through the Green Industry

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 13:00:00 -0000

WorkWave, a provider of cloud-based software solutions recently released a specific solution for those in the green industry. WorkWave Service Lawn & Landscape was designed in conjunction with WorkWave’s current landscape customers to ensure the unique requirements of the industry were being met. The latest upgrade includes industry-specific terms and applications. On this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner discusses the latest green industry software solution with WorkWave’s vice president of product Kerry McCane.

E 32: GIE+EXPO Faces COVID Head-on

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 13:00:00 -0000

The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges for organizers of trade shows and other similar events across numerous industries. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute or OPEI is actively working with its trades how partners (NALP and PGMS) to ensure the 2020 GIE+EXPO remains on schedule for Oct. 21-23 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. A final decision on whether or not to hold the event is expected to be made on July 29. In this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner talks with OPEI President Kris Kiser about the current status of the show.

E 31: Safely purchasing, handling and storing API certified diesel exhaust fluid

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 13:00:00 -0000

As restrictions are being lifted across most states in the country and with warm weather upon us, it is important for truck drivers to consider proper management of diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) used in most diesel-powered trucks. DEF is made from a mixture of technically pure urea and purified water and must be handled and stored properly to preserve its quality. Handling and storing DEF in warm weather requires special care to protect it from the impact of high temperatures which can decrease its useful life. On this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner talks with American Petroleum Institute DEF manager Jeffrey Harmening about some of safety measures surrounding the use and storage of DEF.

E 30: Benefits of Skid Steers/CTLs in Landscaping

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 13:00:00 -0000

John Deere is a name widely known in agriculture and construction. For landscapers, machines that are commonly turned to for a variety of tasks in excavation, loading, trenching and more, are compact track loaders and skid steers. On this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Green Industry Pros Editor Ryan Whisner talks with John Deere Product Marketing Manager Gregg Zupancic about some of the benefits and applications for the CTLS and skid steers as it relates to landscaping.

E 29: SIMA Director Martin Tirado Explains Virtual Snow Symposium

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 13:00:00 -0000

The Snow & Ice Management Association’s 2020 Snow & Ice Symposium will now be a virtual event held August 26-28. Originally scheduled for dates in mid-June, the event was rescheduled due to ongoing health concerns related to COVID-19. The symposium is considered the signature event for SIMA and includes numerous educational opportunities and a trade show that offers views of the latest innovations in snow and ice removal equipment. In this special snow-covered episode of the Grass Roots podcast, SnowPro editor Ryan Whisner talks with SIMA Executive Director Martin Tirado about the challenges of organizing a virtual trade show and overall plans for this year’s symposium.

E 27: GIE+EXPO - The Show Must Go On

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 13:00:00 -0000

GIE+EXPO, the international landscape, outdoor living and equipment exposition, will be held as planned this year on Oct. 21-23 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) is actively working with its trade show partners— the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) and the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) - to design a safe and responsible event that will offer programming and education that directly addresses the challenges currently faced by contractors while maintaining all necessary safety protocols related to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner talks with OPEI President Kris Kiser, NALP Executive Director Britt Wood and PGMS Executive Director Stephanie Bruno about the challenges of adjusting to the pandemic and ensuring the show will go on safely.

E 26: Let's Talk Bobcat R-Series Loaders

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 21:28:26 -0000

For landscapers working mostly in dirt and on established lawns, a compact track loader or skid steer is an option to consider for a variety of tasks due to each machine’s versatility in the field for excavation, loading, trenching and more. A variety of attachments for different tasks including trenchers, boring units, stump grinders, grapple buckets, dozer blades, pallet forks and more are available. In this special episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner talks with Bobcat Company loader marketing manager Sarah Peckskamp about the latest additions to its R-Series product line-up. The Bobcat R-Series Loaders debuted in February 2020 at World of Concrete in Las Vegas and Peckskamp, walks us through the features on the new 60-frame size vertical lift loaders including the T66 model, T64, S64 and S66 models.

E 25: Technology Is Leading the Way Through COVID-19

Thu, 28 May 2020 13:42:09 -0000

In existence for about 40 years, WorkWave is a software provider that offers the full life cycle of a field service business from setting up the customers with an agreement, scheduling service, dispatching and even the payment process. Small landscaping or pest control businesses are able to run nearly their entire business on the WorkWave platform. In this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner talks with David Giannetto, CEO of WorkWave about the importance of technology in leading small businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic as well as getting into some insights on how to ensure continued success with technology and strong leadership.

E 24: Toro Looks to the Horizon

Thu, 21 May 2020 13:00:00 -0000

At the 2019 GIE+EXPO Toro introduced its Horizon360 software. According to Toro, the software brings all the data for a landscape company into one place. Horizon360 is currently available via a free beta test. Final pricing is expected to be released at GIE+EXPO 2020. On this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, senior marketing manager Chris Vogtman discusses Horizon360 the anticipated growth potential in the market for Toro.

E 23: The Focus is You at SiteOne

Thu, 14 May 2020 12:00:00 -0000

As one of the largest suppliers of wholesale irrigation, outdoor lighting, nursery, landscape supplies, fertilizers and turf care products for green industry professionals, SiteOne Landscape Supply has taken steps to ensure customers can continue to obtain its products during the COVID-19 pandemic. Between ordering online and arranging for either delivery or curbside pick-up, the company is ensuring the priority is both its employees and its customers. In this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, host Ryan Whisner, Green Industry Pros editor, talks with Sean Kramer, SiteOne Chief Information Officer and Chintan Patel, SiteOne Vice President, IT Business Applications who discuss how customers are able to set-up online accounts and highlight some of the other current benefits available. Tune in every Thursday for another fresh cut episode of the Grass Roots podcast by Green Industry Pros and make sure to subscribe and share.

E 22: Weathering Adversity With Vermeer

Thu, 07 May 2020 12:47:00 -0000

Vermeer Corp. has faced a couple years of adversity. In 2018, their Pella, Iowa facility was struck by a tornado, which impacted production levels for several months. Celebrating a return to full capacity and more in 2019, the company was looking ahead to 2020 as being a banner year, until COVID-19. While deemed an essential business, the company has had to make the appropriate healthy decisions for its employees the past few months. Doug Hundt, Vermeer’s president of industrial solutions joins us for this edition of the Grass Roots podcast to discuss how the company continues to weather adversity through the COVID-19 pandemic.

E 21: Going Green In Texas

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 08:00:00 -0000

SSC Services for Education (SSC), a leading national K-12 and university facilities and grounds management provider, and Texas A&M University recently received re-accreditation and the highest 4-star accreditation rating for Best Landscape Management and Operations from the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS). Only five other college campuses across the country have this level of accreditation. For this episode of the Grass Roots podcast, SSC Services’ Regional Director of Operations, Phillip Zellner shares insights on how SSC and Texas A&M received the re-accreditation and what campus initiatives helped lead to the recognition.

E 20: Vermeer Unveils Compact Articulated Loaders in North America

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 14:00:00 -0000

Vermeer Corp. recently announced its distribution agreement with MultiOne to supply Vermeer-branded compact articulated loaders to be sold, serviced and supported through Vermeer dealers in North America. Vermeer’s landscape market manager Brett Newendorp goes over some of the details of the new machines and how the agreement will work on this edition of the Grass Roots podcast.

E 19: Perspectives on COVID-19 and the Green Industry

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 00:00:00 -0000

SingleOps CEO and co-founder Sean McCormick shares his perspective on the COVID-19 pandemic and how it is impacting the green industry based on what he has heard from the SingleOps customer base. He describes what sort of impact the pandemic is having and strategies his customers are using to continue operations.

E 18: Trends Toward Electrification in Compact Construction Equipment

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 18:01:00 -0000

On this edition of the Grass Roots Podcast, Wally Stegall, technical fellow and director with The Morey Corporation sits down with guest host Curt Bennink of ForConstructionPros.Com to discuss the trend toward electrification of compact construction equipment and the impacts on future jobsites.

E 17: Texas Lawn Care Company Goes Green with Battery-Powered Equipment, Lands 6-Figure Contract

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 20:21:00 -0000

In the latest episode of the Grass Roots podcast, we talk to Johnny McDonnell, senior vice president of operations for WLE Landscape in Austin, Texas, which was recently named to Inc. magazine’s 5000 list of America’s fastest growing companies.

McDonnell discusses his company’s change from gas-powered to battery-powered lawn equipment, and how it helped bring in a six-figure contract.

The change didn’t happen overnight; McDonnell says it took a commitment by the owners’ group, weeks of demoing equipment and shifting the way team members in the field think about a day’s work.

“We’re trying to bring sophistication to very unsophisticated industry,” McDonnell says.

E16: How to Grow with Your Landscaping Business

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 20:13:00 -0000

What are your goals as a landscaping pro? Do you simply want to keep enough work to earn a full-time income? Or do you have loftier ambitions such as becoming an industry leader in your city or state? Maybe you would like to expand into a franchise that eventually has branches across the country.

On this edition of the Grass Roots Podcast, Augusta Lawn Care Services CEO Mike Andes sits down with Green Industry Pros staff writer Sheena Ingle to discuss his professional journey and advice for other landscaping pros. Andes shares his insights on the landscaping industry and how to position your business for success.

E15: Bobcat Enters New Machine Category With Small Articulated Loaders

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 14:05:00 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Ryan Whisner gets some insight on the Bobcat’s new small articulated loader on this episode of the Grass Roots podcast. Built to fit into backyard areas and capable of carrying small pallets of block or landscape materials, it is designed for landscaping, tree removal and other light duty applications. Product Manager Marty Miller shares some of the highlights of the new machine that will be available in early 2020.

[PODCAST] E14: Vermeer Launches CTX160 Mini Skid Steer

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 17:45:48 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Ryan Whisner takes a look at the Vermeer’s newest and largest mini skid steer, the CTX160. With heavy lifting capabilities and compact footprint, the CTX160 is well-suited for a landscape contractor. Brett Newendorp, landscape market manager at Vermeer was interviewed to give an overview of the new machine’s capabilities and features.

E13: Greenzie Takes Aim At the Landscaping Labor Challenge

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 13:51:18 -0000

Charles Brian Quinn or CBQ as he is known, the CEO and co-founder of Greenzie, joins Green Industry Pros Editor Ryan Whisner for a look back at GIE+EXPO 2019. Greenzie’s ongoing mission is to free humans from repetitive outdoor labor. CBQ and his team are starting that process through development of a robotic kit that attaches to existing commercial mowers that allows for self-driving activity. In this episode of Grass Roots, CBQ shares how landscapers and manufacturers reacted to the concept during GIE.

E12: New KIOTI Zero Turns Are Getting Rave Reviews From Landscapers and Residential Users

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 13:23:46 -0000

Tim Phillips, Kioti national sales manager joins Green Industry Pros Editor Ryan Whisner to discuss the final launch on the company zero turn mower line up. The line includes 12 models within four series, including the ZXR, ZXRSE, ZXC and ZXCSE. KIOTI ZTRs boast an impressive set of features to ensure the same reliability and comfortable performance for operators as tractors and UTVs within the company’s lineup.

E11: Vectorworks Adds Heightened Capabilities to Landscape Architecture Software

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 17:22:00 -0000

Eric Gilbey, landscape product marketing manager at Vectorworks, discusses the latest technology features added to the company's 2D 3D CAD BIM landscape architect software. Architects can more easily walk clients through project designs in 3D and instantly make changes.

E10: Bobcat Returns To Its Roots with Release of Compact Tractor Line

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 18:38:39 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Ryan Whisner takes a look at the Bobcat’s past and present as the compact equipment company reenters the compact tractor market. Compact Tractor Product Manager James Crouch was interviewed to provide details about the new line of products that includes 15 different models.

E9: Just How Safe Are Commercial Drivers?

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 21:11:53 -0000

Contributing writer Sheena Ingle with Green Industry Pros takes a look at the misperceptions everyday drivers have about commercial drivers with Verizon Connect Head of Global Product Success Kevin Aries. He also shares more on transportation management, driver safety and Verizon Connect’s new Integrated Video service.

E8: ECHO's TM 2000 Robotic Mower Cuts into Commercial Market

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 21:01:50 -0000

Green Industry Pros Editor Ryan Whisner talks with Joe Fahey, Echo’s Vice President of Product Service and Robotics, about what sets the ECHO's robotic TM-2000 mower apart from other commercial robot mowers in the latest edition of Grass Roots. Take a listen, this is a podcast you don't want to miss!

E7: Future Outlook of Electrification

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 21:34:00 -0000

At ICUEE 2019, contributing editor Becky Schultz, talked with David Venable, Director of Off-highway Sub-segment with Cummins Inc. about electrification. The two dove into the topic of electrification in the off-road industry, including current trends and what Venable sees for the future of electrification in the industry.

E6: Vermeer Twists a Tale of a Tornado

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 15:05:00 -0000

Contributing Editor Becky Schultz speaks with Jason Andriga and Doug Hundt of Vermeer on getting hit by an F-3 tornado and unveiling new XR2 Vacuum Excavator at ICUEE 2019.

E5: Toro Reflects on Ditch Witch Merger

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 20:54:00 -0000

Toro Group VP, Construction Businesses Rick Rodier joins contributing editor Becky Schultz at ICUEE 2019 for the another edition of Grass Roots. He discusses the company’s February acquisition of Charles Machine Works (parent company of Ditch Witch) and what customers could expect to see as a result of the merger.

E4: Tracking Your Fleet Through the Snow

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 22:14:00 -0000

Kevin Aries of Verizon Connect, joins Green Industry Pros editor Ryan Whisner to discuss the significance of telematics and fleet management software for snow and ice contractors.

E3: Celebrate the Importance of Trees

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 15:42:00 -0000

Arbor Day Foundation President Dan Lambe discusses the recently launch of the new Tree Campus Healthcare program with Green Industry Pros Editor Ryan Whisner. The program aims to transform community health and wellness and ultimately save lives through the health benefits provided by trees.

E2: 2019 GIE+EXPO Is A Must-Attend Event

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 16:09:00 -0000

The landscape industry's largest annual gathering – GIE+EXPO 2019 – is set for Oct. 16-18 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. Ryan Whisner, Editor of Green Industry Pro takes a deep dive into the event with managing partner Kris Kiser. Take a listen, this is a podcast you don't want to miss!

E1 : Exciting Product Launch from Honda

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 16:32:00 -0000

On today’s episode of Grass Roots, Honda Lawn & Garden Products Marketing Manager Elisha Lipscomb, shares the highlights of the HRN mowers which replaces the popular HRR series by redesigning it from the ground up with a new engine, new deck design and ease of operation.