Snow Talk with SIMA

Hosted by Snow Talk by SIMA

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Episodes

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Snow Talk with SIMA provides in-depth interviews with industry leaders and brings an insider look at what makes our industry work. From leadership to operations to life in the industry, Snow Talk with SIMA brings our vast snow and ice network a little closer together.

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60 recent

June 10, 202650 min

How to Fight the Salt Supply Crisis and Save Costs

Most snow professionals aren’t prepared for the next salt shortage - and it could cost your business more than you think. In this eye-opening episode, industry expert Phil Sexton reveals the hidden factors behind the 2025-26 salt crisis and offers actionable strategies to future-proof your operations.Phil breaks down the domino effect of regulations, environmental impacts, and global dependencies that led to this year’s soaring costs—up to $300 per ton in some areas—and explains what every contractor must do now to avoid being hit again.Discover how decades of environmental and logistical challenges have created a fragile salt supply chain, and why relying solely on traditional sourcing and pricing models is a recipe for disaster.

May 11, 202647 min

Creating a Win-Win Workplace

Jack of All People Trades' founder Evan Tachoir joins Snow Talk to share his perspectives on employee engagement, delegation and how to thrive when you understand your "why".

April 13, 202650 min

Snow & Ice 2026: Equipment Trends and Front-Line Strategy

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the highs and lows of a truly unpredictable winter. From the historic mid-March 2026 storms that blanketed the Northeast and upper Midwest to the challenging droughts out West, we’re breaking down the data that defined the last four months.This episode features insights from two industry powerhouses:Deb Mattson, CSP (Business Manager at Allied Snow Removal): Deb shares how her team navigated the intense Northeast storm cycle, the lessons learned on the front lines, and how customer expectations are shifting in the wake of "big weather" events.Jennifer Walth, CSP (Senior Manager at Douglas Dynamics): Jennifer brings a manufacturer's perspective to the table, discussing the latest in equipment performance and industry trends.Whether you're managing a fleet or a business, tune in to hear how the pros handled one of the most unusual winters on record and what it means for the future of snow and ice management.Special thanks to our sponsors:This season of Snow Talk is proudly sponsored by Western Snow Plows and Fisher Engineering.

March 19, 202634 min

What's different about snow and ice management in the UK?

Snow Talk host Martin Tirado speaks with England-based Accugrit's Dean Harvey to chat the differences in snow and ice management in North America compared with the United Kingdom. Plus, they talk a little football (not the American kind).

February 25, 202625 min

Hurricane Relief: A Call to Action in Snow Management

In this episode of Snow Talk, host Martin Tirado speaks with Jacob Shivo, a leader in the snow and ice management industry. Jacob shares his journey into the field, his company's response to Hurricane Pauline, and the importance of community and networking in the industry. The conversation highlights the challenges faced during recovery efforts, innovations in snow management, and the significance of building relationships within the industry.

January 21, 202646 min

Aligning Sales & Operations for Efficiency at EMI

Join me on this episode of Snow Talk as we explore the vital connection between sales and operations at EMI, a leading snow management company. We'll discuss how EMI effectively aligns these departments to streamline processes, enhance communication, and ensure operational efficiency, especially during winter storms. I’m joined by Scott Shelton, the Business Development Manager, and Zach Kolasa, Operations Manager, who share insights on their comprehensive sales strategies, robust training programs, and the importance of educating clients on service expectations. As the conversation unfolds, we’ll also examine tools and technologies that support seamless operations and improve customer experiences. Tune in for valuable lessons that can elevate your snow management business.

December 8, 2025Episode 1247 min

The Mid-Atlantic Snow Challenge

In this episode of Snow Talk, we explore the unique challenges of snow management in the Mid-Atlantic region, from Washington, DC, to Baltimore. Joined by industry experts Steve Mruk of Potomac Lawns and Mike McCarron of ImageWorks Landscaping, we delve into the complexities of operating in an area with inconsistent snowfall. We discuss the impact of heavy traffic, school schedules, and government operations on snow management. Our conversation also highlights the importance of training, technology, and innovative solutions like liquid deicing. Tune in as we uncover how contractors navigate unpredictable weather and client expectations in this demanding market.

December 2, 202522 min

SIMA Foundation 2025 Review

In this conversation, SIMA Foundation CEO, Martin Tirado, discusses the role of associations and their sister organizations, 501c3 foundations, can build the industry through research and the importance of understanding the industry's impact for growth. He emphasizes the need for financial support from stakeholders to continue this progress with his guest, SIMA Foundation Board Chair, Jim Hornung, Jr., CSP (Elbers Landscape Services, Inc.)

December 2, 202546 min

SIMA 2025 in Review

In this year-in-review podcast, Martin Tirado, CEO of SIMA, discusses the past year's achievements and future plans with board members Chris Hinton, CSP (GRM Inc.) and Jeff Heller, CSP (Innovative Maintenance Solutions). They highlight strategic planning initiatives, the launch of the Accelerate program for emerging leaders, and the upcoming symposium in Cincinnati. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community engagement, addressing insurance challenges, and the role of the SIMA Foundation in supporting industry research and education. Listeners are encouraged to get involved and take advantage of the resources available through SIMA.

November 17, 202529 min

Optimizing your Business - Scaling for the Future

Jim Plona, Director of Snow & Ice at McNelly Services in Lake Zurich, Illinois, and Evan Newman discuss how to scale a snow business – smartly and sustainably.