In this engaging conversation, landscape designers Abby Rupsa and Jesse House share their insights on differentiating their design services, the importance of pre-qualifying clients, and the unique experiences they create for their customers. They discuss the significance of site visits, effective communication, and leveraging technology in design. Both designers emphasize the value of community and networking, offering advice for aspiring designers and highlighting the importance of transparency and understanding client expectations.

Takeaways

• Pre-qualifying clients is essential for successful projects.
• Site visits should be thorough and data-driven.
• Creating unique experiences for clients enhances satisfaction.
• Effective communication builds trust with clients.
• Technology can streamline design processes and improve client interactions.
• Surrounding yourself with knowledgeable peers fosters growth.
• Transparency in pricing and expectations is crucial.
• Understanding client needs leads to better design outcomes.
• Networking within the industry can lead to valuable connections.
• Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success in design.

In this episode of SYNKD On Air, host Angelique Robb explores the burgeoning world of wellness tourism and experiential hospitality with Karen Larson of Soake Pools and HB Mertz from Harbor Saunas. Discover how these industry pioneers are transforming backyards and boutique hotels into sanctuaries of health and relaxation, offering unique experiences that go beyond traditional amenities. From the rise of contrast therapy to the integration of high-end saunas and plunge pools, learn how these innovations are reshaping the hospitality landscape and what it means for the future of travel and wellness. Tune in to find out how you can create your own personal oasis or enhance your hospitality offerings with these cutting-edge solutions.

https://www.soakepools.com/

https://harborsaunas.com/

https://synkd.io/

In this episode of SYNKD On Air, host Angelique Robb engages with guests Aaron Farrer, Mike Garvey, and Larry Delli Santi to discuss innovative tools in landscaping, particularly the Ant tool designed for easier tarp handling. The conversation explores the importance of efficiency in landscaping, the origin of the Ant tool, and how investing in better equipment can enhance business operations. The guests share insights on building a positive work culture, the significance of community and networking in the industry, and the upcoming events that foster collaboration and learning among professionals.

takeaways

• The Ant tool revolutionizes tarp handling in landscaping.
• Efficiency is key to successful landscaping operations.
• Investing in better tools pays off in the long run.
• Community events like Sync Live foster valuable connections.
• A positive work culture attracts and retains employees.
• Networking leads to shared knowledge and growth.
• The origin of the Ant tool stems from a need for efficiency.
• Proper equipment maintenance is crucial for business success.
• Listening to employees' needs improves workplace morale.
• Innovative tools can prevent physical strain in landscaping jobs.

In this episode, we talk with Valerie Angelkos (https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerieangelkos/), Head of Marketing at Zapp, a digital platform that lets users send money to Mexico directly through WhatsApp — no app download required. Zapp is built specifically for Spanish-speaking workers in industries like construction, landscaping, and maintenance. Learn more at www.zapp.global.

We discuss how Zapp helps workers avoid the new 1% state withholding on cash remittances, how employers can support their teams with better financial tools, and why digital solutions like Zapp are the future of cross-border payments.

Zapp is looking to build partnerships with companies in the space to help spread the word about the product. Interested in connecting? Reach out to partnerships@zapp.global.

https://www.zapp.global/

Keywords

water management, landscape industry, irrigation, plant health, collaboration, soil testing, native plants, water conservation, technical operations, landscaping solutions

Summary

In this conversation, Angelique Robb interviews Daniel Smith from Park West about the critical role of water management in the landscape industry. Daniel shares his journey from an irrigation specialist to the director of technical operations, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, training, and innovative solutions in addressing landscape challenges. The discussion covers various topics, including the use of graphics in water management, the significance of plant growth regulators, and the future of native plants in landscaping. Daniel also highlights the need for soil and water testing to improve landscape health and efficiency.

Takeaways

Water management is a crucial aspect of landscaping.

Daniel's journey reflects the importance of continuous learning.

Graphics play a significant role in operational efficiency.

Understanding plant growth is essential for effective maintenance.

Collaboration across specialties enhances problem-solving.

Training and development are vital for industry success.

Native plants offer sustainable landscaping solutions.

Soil and water testing can improve plant health.

AI can assist in making informed landscaping decisions.

The landscape industry must adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Sound bites

"Water is the red thread through everything."

"Graphics is impactful to us and our clients."

"Collaboration is key in our industry."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Water Management and Park West

02:55 Daniel's Journey in the Landscape Industry

05:39 The Role of Graphics in Landscape Management

08:23 Understanding Plant Growth Regulators

11:06 Innovations in Landscape Restoration

13:55 Collaboration Across Specialties

16:49 Training and Knowledge Sharing in the Industry

19:30 Challenges with Native Plants

22:17 The Future of Irrigation and Soil Health

24:49 Utilizing AI and Resources for Better Practices

27:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this conversation, Mar Ricketts, founder of GuildWorks, discusses his journey into the world of tension fabric structures and the importance of engineering in creating sustainable and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces. He highlights the unique challenges faced in projects like ice rinks and emphasizes the need for collaboration among various professionals in architecture. Ricketts also shares insights on the future of outdoor living and the growing demand for shade solutions in urban environments.

takeaways

• Mar Ricketts has a background in fabric structures and tension engineering.
• GuildWorks specializes in design, engineering, and installation of tension fabric structures.
• Tension fabric structures are efficient, lightweight, and reduce carbon footprints.
• The engineering behind fabric structures must meet building codes and withstand environmental loads.
• Shade structures can significantly impact outdoor comfort and usability.
• Collaboration among architects, engineers, and builders is crucial for successful projects.
• The design process for fabric structures is iterative and flexible.
• COVID-19 has increased awareness of the importance of outdoor living spaces.
• Innovative solutions are needed for unique structural challenges, such as ice rinks.
• The future of architecture includes a focus on livability and outdoor comfort.

In this conversation, Rayne Gibson shares his extensive experience in the nursery and landscape industry, discussing the challenges and assumptions that landscapers face when considering owning a nursery. He emphasizes the importance of understanding inventory management, market needs, and the distinct business models of nurseries and landscaping. Rain also highlights the significance of passion for both plants and business, and offers insights into successful strategies for nursery ownership, including the potential benefits of partnerships over outright ownership.

takeaways

• Inventory is not an asset; it is a liability.
• Nurseries are cash-hungry businesses requiring significant upfront investment.
• Passion for plants does not guarantee business success.
• Understanding market needs is crucial for nursery viability.
• KPIs for nurseries differ significantly from those for landscaping businesses.
• Successful nurseries often have in-house design teams.
• Partnerships can be more beneficial than ownership in the nursery business.
• Effective inventory management is key to profitability.
• Landscapers should absorb extra costs to ensure nursery viability.
• Do your homework before investing in a nursery.

Sound Bites

• "It makes sense if there's a market need."
• "Inventory is not an asset, it is a liability."
• "If you can't say yes to both, don't do it."

In this episode, Angelique Robb interviews Dwayne Draughon, an outdoor living designer, who shares his unconventional journey into the industry. Dwayne discusses the evolution of outdoor living spaces, emphasizing the importance of design and functionality. He highlights the challenges faced by the industry, including the lack of recognition for outdoor living in real estate and the need for better education for both contractors and homeowners. The conversation also touches on the value of outdoor living spaces and the future direction of the industry.

takeaways

• Dwayne's journey into outdoor living was unplanned and filled with unexpected turns.
• Outdoor living design encompasses more than just paver patios; it includes kitchens, dining, and lounge areas.
• The average cost for a well-designed outdoor living space starts around $75,000.
• Designing outdoor spaces should consider furniture layout and functionality.
• Many outdoor living designs fail to integrate with the home’s architecture and style.
• The outdoor living industry lacks recognition in real estate listings and appraisals.
• Education for both contractors and homeowners is crucial for the growth of the outdoor living industry.
• Dwayne emphasizes the importance of creating functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces.
• The industry faces challenges from manufacturers who dictate design trends.
• Dwayne expresses a passion for designing outdoor spaces despite frustrations with the industry.

Sound Bites

• "I had no plans to be an outdoor living designer."
• "Outdoor living is not paver patios."
• "We don't have our own industry."