Side Hustle Squad

Hosted by Mike Garvey

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Episodes

379

Latest episode

Nov 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to the Side Hustle Squad Podcast with your host, Mike Garvey! My goal is to provide entrepreneurs with all the tools and resources they need to start and succeed in the lawn care industry on the side while working a full-time career. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, or thinking about taking the leap into starting a business, this podcast will help you build and grow. Guests from the green industry and beyond will be on the show to share their experiences and advice. I provide in-depth interviews with successful entrepreneurs, offering insight into what it takes to succeed in running a business. I will also discuss the various aspects of the lawn care industry, from equipment and industry trends to stories and experiences from my own lawn care business successes and failures. You will leave each episode feeling informed, empowered, and ready to hustle. No matter what stage of the journey you're in, the Side Hustle Squad is here to help you succeed. Tune in every week for the latest interviews, tips, tricks, and advice for growing your business.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

November 12, 202623 min

Ep 380. Andy Greyson on Kress and the Future of Outdoor Power Equipment!

Mike sits down with Andy Greyson of Kress to talk about the company's outdoor power equipment and where the industry is headed. They discuss the shift toward battery-powered tools, what contractors should consider as they evaluate new equipment, and how innovation is changing the way outdoor work gets done. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast ROPED on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/roped.us/ 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More 💵 Lawntrapreneur Academy Live (Nov 7-8, 2026) – Learn what's actually working from top-performing lawn care pros. Learn More PermaGreen – Triumph Ride-On Spreader Sprayer Learn More

November 5, 202623 min

Ep 379. The Future of Mini Skid Steers with Joey Breja of Vermeer!

At PodRow, Mike sits down with Joey Breja, Engineering Manager at Vermeer , to talk about mini skid steers and what's ahead for the category. They discuss what's new at Vermeer, how these machines are evolving, and what the future could look like for contractors and equipment operators. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast ROPED on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/roped.us/ 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More 💵 Lawntrapreneur Academy Live (Nov 7-8, 2026) – Learn what's actually working from top-performing lawn care pros. Learn More PermaGreen – Triumph Ride-On Spreader Sprayer Learn More

October 29, 20261 hr 1 min

Ep 378. Side Hustle Strategies for Green Industry Entrepreneurs

Industry professionals gathering at events like the Equip Expo and Pod House discuss the rapid evolution of green industry technology, particularly the rise of autonomous robotic mowers and advanced battery-powered equipment from global brands like Crest. Mike Garvey and Eric Triplett ( The Pond Digger ) explore how stepping away from daily operations fosters crucial business perspective, while highlighting the importance of strong leadership, employee culture, and structured daily communication. The conversation also emphasizes the value of strategic networking and cultivating relationships that drive long-term business growth rather than getting bogged down in routine tasks. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast ROPED on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/roped.us/ 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More 💵 Lawntrapreneur Academy Live (Nov 7-8, 2026) – Learn what's actually working from top-performing lawn care pros. Learn More PermaGreen – Triumph Ride-On Spreader Sprayer Learn More

October 22, 202621 min

Ep 377. Live from Pod Row: What to Expect at Equip Expo 2026!

Larry is back on the show, and we're recording live from Pod Row at Equip Expo 2026! We're talking all things PodHouse: where to find us, what we've got planned, and what to expect from this year's experience. We'll also give you the rundown on Equip, share what we're looking forward to, and talk about everything happening at the show. If you're in Louisville, come find us at Pod Row in Room B103. We'll see you at Equip! 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast ROPED on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/roped.us/ 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More 💵 Lawntrapreneur Academy Live (Nov 7-8, 2026) – Learn what's actually working from top-performing lawn care pros. Learn More PermaGreen – Triumph Ride-On Spreader Sprayer Learn More

October 15, 202655 min

Ep 376. Building Five-Star Experiences

Mike Garvey and Eric Triplett ( The Pond Digger and host of The Deep End Podcast), discuss the challenges of securing online ratings and building a five-star service culture within contracting businesses. They examine how to address negative feedback constructively while motivating team members to prioritize customer satisfaction. The conversation highlights the importance of authentic customer engagement and follow-up strategies rather than relying on automated or impersonal messaging. Furthermore, they share practical methods for leveraging events and community interactions to organically increase reviews without violating platform guidelines. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast ROPED on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/roped.us/ 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More 💵 Lawntrapreneur Academy Live (Nov 7-8, 2026) – Learn what's actually working from top-performing lawn care pros. Learn More PermaGreen – Triumph Ride-On Spreader Sprayer Learn More

October 8, 202615 min

Ep 375. Every Season Brings a New Challenge!

I'm sharing updates from Coastal Fertilization, our North Jersey expansion, and what's happening at ROPED as Equip Expo gets closer. Then I get into a lesson every business owner learns: each season brings a new challenge. When things are going well, enjoy the momentum, but stay grounded and keep looking ahead. When things go sideways, don't let one tough stretch convince you everything is falling apart. The next season is always coming. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast ROPED on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/roped.us/ 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More 💵 Lawntrapreneur Academy Live (Nov 7-8, 2026) – Learn what's actually working from top-performing lawn care pros. Learn More PermaGreen – Triumph Ride-On Spreader Sprayer Learn More

October 1, 20269 min

Ep 374. Robotic Mowing Is Growing Up: What Happens After the Demo?

Robotic mowing is about more than watching a machine cut grass. Mike shares a ROPED update and talks about choosing the right property, bringing the crew into the process, planning for setup and service, and measuring whether robotics is actually helping the operation. The demo is just the beginning. The real work is making the technology fit the job. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast ROPED on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/roped.us/ 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More 💵 Lawntrapreneur Academy Live (Nov 7-8, 2026) – Learn what's actually working from top-performing lawn care pros. Learn More PermaGreen – Triumph Ride-On Spreader Sprayer Learn More

September 29, 202611 min

Ep 373. Is That New Equipment Worth It? Do the Math Before You Buy

Before you buy that mower, truck, aerator, or new piece of battery equipment, make sure it can earn its place in your business. Mike breaks down how to identify the problem you're solving, calculate the full cost, estimate labor savings and added profit, and compare buying with renting or buying used. A practical solo episode to help you make your next equipment decision with confidence. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast ROPED on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/roped.us/ 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More 💵 Lawntrapreneur Academy Live (Nov 7-8, 2026) – Learn what's actually working from top-performing lawn care pros. Learn More PermaGreen – Triumph Ride-On Spreader Sprayer Learn More

September 24, 202612 min

Ep 372. You Don't Need More Leads, You Need Better Follow-Up!

Most business owners think slow sales mean they need more advertising, more leads, and a bigger marketing budget. But the real opportunity may already be sitting in your inbox, CRM, open estimates, and customer list. In this episode, Mike explains why follow-up is one of the biggest missed opportunities in the home-service industry. He breaks down response time, follow-up sequences, reactivating past customers, turning one-time jobs into recurring revenue, and giving every opportunity a clear owner. Before you spend another dollar generating leads, make sure you aren't letting good ones slip through the cracks. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast ROPED on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/roped.us/ 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More 💵 Lawntrapreneur Academy Live (Nov 7-8, 2026) – Learn what's actually working from top-performing lawn care pros. Learn More PermaGreen – Triumph Ride-On Spreader Sprayer Learn More

September 22, 20269 min

Ep 371. The Fall Business Audit Part 2: Equipment, Marketing & Auditing Yourself

In Part Two of the Fall Business Audit, Mike finishes breaking down the areas every business owner should evaluate before the year ends. Are your trucks and equipment making you money or quietly draining it? Do you know which marketing efforts are actually producing quality customers? And most importantly, are you leading the business forward, or have you become its biggest bottleneck? Mike covers equipment, marketing, leadership, delegation, and how to turn everything you uncover into a focused action plan. You'll learn how to select one financial priority, one operational priority, and one growth priority, then assign ownership, establish deadlines, and start building a stronger business before the new year. 🔗 Important Links & Resources 🎙 Side Hustle Squad on Instagram @sidehustlesquadpodcast ROPED on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/roped.us/ 🌱 Coastal Fertilization on Instagram @coastalfertilization 💻 Branded Bull Website Design Visit BrandedBull.com 📋 Get Jobber – 20% Off for 6 Months Sign Up Here 🏗 EQUIP Exposition — Save 50% Register Now Use promo code: SIDEHUSTLE at checkout 👟 Save 10% on KUJO Yardwear Shop Now Discount automatically applies 📅 LiveSwitch Book a Demo 📬 PostcardMania Learn More 💵 Relay – Powerful Business Banking for Small Business Owners Learn More 💵 Lawntrapreneur Academy Live (Nov 7-8, 2026) – Learn what's actually working from top-performing lawn care pros. Learn More PermaGreen – Triumph Ride-On Spreader Sprayer Learn More