Crooked Stripes Podcast

Hosted by Brandon Brubacher, Kyle Breiner

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Episodes

110

Latest episode

May 2026

Language

EN-CA

About the show

The Crooked Stripes Podcast is where contractors talk shop. Hosted by Brandon Brubacher in Canada and Kyle Breiner in Ohio, the show features real conversations about lawn care, landscaping, snow removal, and what it takes to build a business in the green industry. From equipment and efficiency to marketing and the day-to-day grind, each episode shares honest insights from the field. New episodes weekly.

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60 recent

May 31, 2026Episode 10950 min

109: Rowdy, RCR & Rocks Surf and Turf

This one's extra special.. Kyle is out in the field so it's just me and a guy I've been wanting to get on for a while. Rocky Reynolds, former sales manager at Senix, has officially made the leap and started his own lawn and pressure washing business out in Mooresville, North Carolina. Love to see it.We kick things off by dedicating this episode to Kyle Busch and the entire RCR family. A two-time NASCAR Cup champion gone way too soon at 41,this one hit different. I've got my Kyle Busch hat on that I grabbed at Watkins Glen last year, and we spend some time talking about what he meant to the sport and to us personally. Rocky actually played a role in bringing Senix into the RCR and NASCAR world, so we get into how that whole deal went down and what that experience was like behind the scenes.Then we shift gears and talk about Rocky's new venture..Rocks Surf and Turf. What it took to make the leap, how he's been landing customers, what he's running for equipment, and what year one actually looks like. Real talk from someone in the thick of it.If you've ever thought about going out on your own, this one's worth a listen.Thanks for tuning in 🤝Takeaways:Remembering Kyle Busch — two-time Cup champion, Rowdy Nation, and what he meant to NASCARHow the Senix x RCR NASCAR partnership came together behind the scenesMaking the leap from corporate sales to running your own businessBuilding a customer base from scratch — what's actually workingRunning a combo lawn and pressure washing operation in year oneThe reality of the grind when you're doing it all yourselfWhether you're a NASCAR fan, a lawn care guy, or just someone thinking about betting on yourself — there's something in this one for you. And a few laughs too.Other Links:👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada🅾️ Breiner Lawn @breinerlawn👨‍💻Episode Sponsor: Green Frog Web Designhttps://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

May 15, 2026Episode 10835 min

108: What's in the Water?

This one's a proper solo catch-up, no guests, no script, just Brandon getting into it. A busy spring, some wins, some headaches, and a local issue that deserves way more attention than it's getting.We get into the Canadian Tire promo collab (a goal from day one, now becoming real), picking up the sprayer, and what a wild start to the season has actually looked like on the ground. Plus a rant about customer service that'll hit close to home for anyone running a business .. and a deep dive into the Waterloo Region groundwater crisis that's quietly shutting down development across Elmira, Kitchener, Waterloo and beyond.If you're grinding through your own busy season right now, this one's for you.Thanks for tuning in 🤝Takeaways:Field blunders, a popped tire, and rising fuel costs, the real math of running a lawn care businessLanding brand deals: how the Canadian Tire collab came together and what it means for Stripe LifeNew equipment: the sprayer is in the fleetCustomer service is broken across every industry, here's the standard we hold ourselves toThe Waterloo Region water crisis: what's happening, why it matters, and why it's not getting enough attentionWhether you're just starting out or scaling up, this one's got something for you — and a few laughs along the way.Other Links:👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada🅾️ Breiner Lawn: @breinerlawn👨‍💻 Episode Sponsor: Green Frog Web Design — https://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

April 25, 2026Episode 10742 min

107: We’re in the Thick of It… Life & Lawn Care Update

This one’s just us getting back to basics..no big agenda, no overthinking it. Just a real catch-up on life, work, and everything that comes with a busy spring season.We talk about what the past few weeks have looked like, how things are ramping up, and the reality of trying to keep up when everything hits at once. From long days to juggling jobs, content, and life outside of work—it’s all part of the grind.If you’re in the middle of your own busy season, this one will feel pretty relatable.Thanks for tuning in 🤝Takeaways:Spring landscaping season and industry trendsPricing strategies and managing costsRoute density and business growth tacticsWhether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights .. and a few laughs. Other Links:👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada🅾️ Breiner Lawn @breinerlawn👨‍💻Episode Sponsor: Green Frog Web Designhttps://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

April 18, 2026Episode 10629 min

106: Stop Wasting Leads - The Website & Marketing Fix You Need with Ezra McCarthy

This week, Brandon is joined by Ezra McCarthy from Green Frog Web Design for a marketing-focused conversation all about turning your online presence into real customers.Ezra breaks down what goes into building a high-converting website, what most service businesses are doing wrong online, and how small changes can make a big difference when it comes to getting leads. The guys also talk through the impact of a well-built site (including the one Ezra created for them), and why your website should be working just as hard as you are.They also dive into Google My Business, how to show up locally, and the role social media actually plays in growing your business. From first impressions to final conversions, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone looking to level up their marketing.Takeaways:Why your website needs to focus on converting, not just looking goodThe biggest mistakes contractors make onlineHow to use Google My Business to get more local leadsThe difference between social media and your website (and why you need both)Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights .. and a few laughs. Other Links:👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada🅾️ Breiner Lawn @breinerlawn👨‍💻Episode Sponsor: Green Frog Web Designhttps://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

April 10, 2026Episode 10535 min

105: Slow Season Coming? Here’s How We’re Adjusting Our Landscaping Business

In this solo episode, Brandon sits down during a spring snowstorm (yep… fake spring is in full effect) to talk about what’s really happening in the landscaping industry right now—and how to adapt.After speaking with multiple contractors, one thing is clear: this season may be slower, and those big-ticket projects are getting harder to land. But instead of panicking, it’s time to pivot.This episode breaks down practical, real-world strategies to help recession-proof your service-based business, protect your cash flow, and stay busy.. even when things tighten up.From focusing on recurring revenue to cutting unnecessary expenses and getting creative with marketing, this is a no BS look at what it takes to stay ahead this year.Takeaways:Why “need-based” services will outperform luxury projects this seasonHow recurring services can stabilize your incomeWhen and how to make tough decisions with your teamHow switching to battery equipment can save money over timeWhether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights .. and a few laughs. Other Links:👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada🅾️ Breiner Lawn @breinerlawn👨‍💻Episode Sponsor: Green Frog Web Designhttps://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

March 30, 2026Episode 10456 min

104: Living the Lawn Life with Kenny Cooper – Behind the Perfect Lawn

This week, Brandon and Kyle are joined by Kenny Cooper and Kyle Breiner for a laid-back conversation that covers everything from NASCAR trips and late-night White Castle runs to building a standout lawn and growing on social media.Kenny shares what his day-to-day looks like outside of lawn care, how he balances a full-time job with content creation, and what’s been working for him online. The guys also get into equipment, including what Kenny’s currently running, new gear he’s testing, and what it really takes to get that next-level lawn.They also touch on the shift toward battery-powered equipment, industry trends, and the mindset needed to stay consistent, whether you’re running a business or just leveling up your own lawn.Takeaways:Equipment talk + what Kenny’s usingTips for cleaner stripes and better lawnsBattery vs gas discussionSocial media growth in the lawn spaceWhether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights .. and a few laughs. Other Links:👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada🅾️ Breiner Lawn @breinerlawn👨‍💻Episode Sponsor: Green Frog Web Designhttps://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

March 20, 2026Episode 10334 min

103: Spring Rush Is Here: Cleanups, New Gear & Navigating an Uncertain Season

Episode 103 kicks off with Brandon and Kyle officially stepping into the spring rush…well, almost. While Kyle is already starting cleanups and gearing up for mowing season, Brandon is still shaking off the last bit of winter up north.The guys dive into what a solid spring cleanup actually looks like from edging, pruning, and mulching to dealing with leftover winter debris. They also swap notes on equipment upgrades, including new trimmers, hedge cutters, and the pros/cons of trailer setups (and why extra weight on your tools is a dealbreaker).Kyle shares a wild experience flying out to LA to link up with Nathan Stafford for community cleanups helping homeowners facing fines, tackling overgrown properties, and navigating some intense but rewarding interactions.Takeaways:The importance of recurring revenue vs. large one-off projectsWhy this season might lean slower for big landscaping jobsRaising prices and communicating it effectivelyWhether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights .. and a few laughs. Other Links:👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada🅾️ Breiner Lawn @breinerlawn👨‍💻Episode Sponsor: Green Frog Web Designhttps://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

March 9, 2026Episode 10259 min

102: From Fanshawe to the Field | 2026 Landscape Trends w Cole Martin

In Episode 102, Brandon welcomes back returning guest Cole Martin (from Episode 99) for a conversation about where the landscaping industry is heading and what the next generation of landscapers should be paying attention to. With Kyle busy trying to sell a mower, Brandon and Cole dive into 2026 landscape trends, lessons from the field, and how young landscapers can set themselves up for success.Cole shares his experience studying in the Landscape Design program at Fanshawe College, giving a big shoutout to the school that helped kickstart his career in the industry. They talk about the value of hands-on learning, what landscape students should focus on while in school, and how the transition from classroom to jobsite really looks.The conversation also explores what’s trending in landscaping right now and what contractors are seeing more of from clients. From low-maintenance landscapes and native plantings to outdoor wellness spaces, new materials like Corten steel, and smarter drainage solutions, Brandon and Cole break down the ideas shaping landscape design heading into 2026.They also discuss the versatility of the landscaping industry, from design and horticulture to project management and running your own business.. plus practical tips for quoting jobs, communicating with clients, and building long-term relationships that keep projects coming back year after year.For students, young landscapers, or anyone thinking about entering the trade, this episode is packed with real-world insight and a few stories from the early days getting started.Takeaways:Landscape design trends shaping projects heading into 2026Why the Landscape Design program at Fanshawe College prepares students well for the industryThe growing demand for low-maintenance and functional outdoor spacesPractical quoting and client communication strategies for contractorsWhy adaptability and learning new materials or techniques is key in a changing economyWhether you're a landscape student, contractor, or just passionate about the industry, this episode is full of insights on where landscaping is headed next … and how to stay ahead of the curve. 🌿🚜👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada🅾️ Breiner Lawn @breinerlawn👨‍💻Episode Sponsor: Green Frog Web Designhttps://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

March 4, 2026Episode 10137 min

101: Spring Is Loading … Let’s Build the Momentum

In Episode 101, Kyle and Brandon shift from winter mode into spring prep. With warmer weather ahead, they talk about melting snow, lining up cleanup jobs, and getting ready for a busy season.Kyle shares updates from starting a few weeks earlier, including community cleanups and what properties really look like once winter fades. Brandon discusses scheduling commercial work, kicking off with a golf course project, and making sure everything is dialled in before the rush.They also touch on winter plow lessons, food struggles during overnight storms, pricing adjustments, and balancing business with family life during peak season.Plus, a quick shoutout to Hitch City and their April 17 open house.Spring is coming … and it’s time to build momentum. 🌱🚜Takeaways:Lessons learned from winter plowingPlanning for pricing adjustments heading into a new seasonBalancing business growth with family life during peak monthsWhether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights .. and a few laughs. Other Links:👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada🅾️ Breiner Lawn @breinerlawn👨‍💻Episode Sponsor: Green Frog Web Designhttps://greenfrogwebdesign.com/

February 23, 2026Episode 1001 hr 17 min

100: Triple Digits - Ferris Factory Team Takeover & What's Next

Episode 100 of Crooked Stripes is a big one. We’re joined by Ken Morris and Trevor Spencer for a Ferris Factory team conversation packed with business growth talk, equipment insights, marketing strategies, and what’s ahead in the lawn care industry. We dive into how Ferris has been a game changer for our businesses, Ken’s upcoming move to Montana to expand operations, EXPO heading to Florida in 2028, travel stories from Australia, and the power of building a strong online presence. An hour and 17 minutes of real conversations, big plans, and momentum as we gear up for the next 100 episodes.Takeaways:Business growth and expansion strategiesEquipment choices and innovations in lawn careExpo plans and marketing strategies Landscaping equipment and toolsBusiness expansion and team buildingWhether you're just starting out or looking to level up your landscaping game, this one’s full of useful insights...and a few laughs. Other Links:👨‍🌾 Stripe Life Canada: @stripelifecanada🅾️ Breiner Lawn @breinerlawn👨‍💻Episode Sponsor: Green Frog Web Designhttps://greenfrogwebdesign.com/