Join Steve Bousquet as he visits Eastlake, Ohio, for his first on-site episode of the Green Profit Academy Pro Podcast with lawn care legend Don Zerby of EcoLawn. Don shares his incredible 48-year journey in the industry, starting from humble beginnings mowing lawns with a 10-speed bike, to leading a team of 18 and serving nearly 3,000 customers. The conversation dives into the power of mentorship, robust systems like Profit First, and the importance of building a team culture where expectations and growth are clear. Don and Steve reflect on the role of continuous learning, coaching, and evolving leadership to keep a business thriving—plus, how giving back and developing community leaders has become an integral part of their legacy.

Throughout the episode, listeners get practical insights into business growth, resilience, and the tools that made a difference—like Profit First, Pumpkin Plan, and Clockwork. Steve highlights the importance of accountability partners and embracing change, while Don emphasizes the fun and fulfillment that comes from developing people and stepping into your best self. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom and heartfelt stories that inspire you to lead your business—and your life—with purpose.

Don Zerby, the founder and president of Ecolawn in Eastlake, Ohio, brings over 45 years of hands-on experience to the lawn care industry. His journey began at the age of 13 when he started his first landscaping business, showcasing an early passion for horticulture and customer service. In 1993, he established Ecolawn with a vision to provide personalized, environmentally conscious lawn care solutions.

Under Don's leadership, Ecolawn has become recognized for its hybrid lawn care programs, which combine organic materials—such as corn gluten, orange peel, and yucca extract—with targeted treatments. This approach not only enhances soil health but also reduces the need for chemical interventions, promoting sustainable and lush lawns.

Don emphasizes customer education, believing that informed clients are key to achieving long-term lawn health. His team is trained to provide insights on best practices, ensuring that homeowners are active participants in the care of their lawns.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Don is dedicated to cultivating a company culture built on integrity and excellence. He carefully selects team members who align with Ecolawn's values, ensuring consistent and high-quality service.

For those seeking expert advice on sustainable lawn care and business leadership, Don Zerby's insights offer valuable perspectives drawn from decades of dedicated service.

Connect with Don: www.ecolawn.net

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The Green Profit Academy Pros Podcast digs into the challenges in growing a Lawn Care and Landscape business while maximizing your profit. Christeen Era, and Steve Bousquet. are green industry experts in profit, growth, and leadership.

This week, host Steve Bousquet dives deep into the pivotal role of mindset during the most challenging stretch in the green industry—the notorious “100 Days of Hell.” As business owners battle burnout, overwhelm, and constant change, Steve introduces practical tools like the Choice Map by Dr. Marilee Adams, which helps leaders and teams shift from a victim mentality to a proactive, learner mindset. He discusses the importance of self-awareness, recognizing when you’re operating from a “Judger” versus “Learner” perspective, and how simple switching questions can get you back on track. Steve also shares insights on leveraging your Clifton Strengths domains to operate in your unique zone of energy and effectiveness, and challenges listeners to reconsider the old stories they tell themselves, focusing instead on those that fuel growth and positivity.

Throughout the episode, Steve unpacks common pitfalls such as the need to always be right, dominating conversations, or diminishing others’ experiences, and explains the hidden costs these behaviors bring to relationships, company culture, and personal fulfillment. He encourages business owners to celebrate their strengths, stay curious, and practice conscious leadership by listening, acknowledging, and supporting those around them. Whether you’re leading a team through a tough season or seeking more joy in your daily work, this episode offers actionable advice and a friendly reminder that mindset mastery can transform not just your business, but your entire outlook on life. For more resources on mindset and business growth, visit Green Profit Academy or reach out with your questions.

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Request a topic from the Pros – what would you like to hear about, or what challenge do you currently have? growgpa.com/PodcastAsk

The Green Profit Academy Pros Podcast digs into the challenges in growing a Lawn Care and Landscape business while maximizing your profit. Christeen Era, and Steve Bousquet. are green industry experts in profit, growth, and leadership.

In this episode, Christeen Era is joined by CPA and tax strategist Mary Pierce for an insightful deep dive into the concept of "basis"—a critical but often overlooked topic for business owners. Mary breaks down what basis really is, how it affects S corporation owners, and why understanding your basis can save you from unnecessary taxes and frustration. Drawing from her extensive experience in tax planning, Mary shares practical examples, explains common pitfalls (like using your business as an ATM or mishandling distributions), and demystifies how basis does and doesn’t show up on your financial statements.

Listeners will discover actionable steps to protect their profits, avoid double taxation, and utilize smart strategies for building a stronger financial foundation. Whether you’re new to the concept or need a refresher, this conversation offers clarity, real-world scenarios, and the encouragement to engage proactively with your tax professional. Awareness and good financial habits can turn your business into a true wealth builder.

Mary Pierce is a Tax Planning Consultant with Core Growth Strategies. An experienced CPA, Mary has worked in the accounting profession for over 30 years advising clients in construction, real estate, and service businesses. She has advanced expertise in working with businesses in the construction industry. Her expertise in systems, procedures, information technology and human resources, in addition to core accounting and tax skills, give her a unique perspective to help her clients.

Mary graduated Magna Cum Laude from The University of Detroit with a Bachelor of Science degree. She is a member of the Gold Coast Builders Association, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Mary is married and has two children. In her spare time, Mary enjoys flying with her husband, gardening, and traveling.

https://www.pierce.cpa/

Request a topic from the Pros – what would you like to hear about, or what challenge do you currently have? growgpa.com/PodcastAsk

The Green Profit Academy Pros Podcast digs into the challenges in growing a Lawn Care and Landscape business while maximizing your profit. Christeen Era, and Steve Bousquet. are green industry experts in profit, growth, and leadership.