Ep 139. Wise Growth: Equipment, Expansion, and the 10x Myth
The Mulder Life Podcast
Today Andy is discussing various aspects of his company, from equipment upgrades like trading in excavators for newer models to the ongoing construction of a new facility to house operations. He emphasizes a philosophy of slow and financially responsible business growth, cautioning against the "10x" rapid expansion mentality prevalent online, which he believes often leads to financial instability and compromised quality. He also shares his personal insights on decision-making, including consulting his wife on large purchases and the importance of thorough employee training to maintain high...
info_outline
Ep 138. GPS Is Life!
The Mulder Life Podcast
Andy discusses equipment and technology, particularly the benefits and complexities of using a Trimble GPS rover for site layout and measurement, emphasizing its efficiency and accuracy. Additionally, the episode touches upon strategic business decisions like equipment investment and prioritizing learning new skills. 🎤 Featured Event SynkedUP Contractor Summit — September 11–12, 2025 Use code MULDER to save $250 on registration! 🔗 👋 Connect with Andy 📸 Instagram: 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: 🧰 Business Resources Save 10% on top resources...
info_outline
Ep 137. Why We Don't Sweat the Economy. My 11-Year Business Perspective
The Mulder Life Podcast
Andy shares some exciting shop developments like a new solar-powered gate installation and free asphalt millings acquisition, plus he answers your most pressing industry questions. This episode tackles budget-friendly hardscaping equipment recommendations, strategies for maintenance companies transitioning into hardscaping, the specialization versus diversification debate, and the critical importance of backup equipment for business efficiency. Discover Andy's refreshingly practical 11-year approach to economic uncertainty—focusing on business fundamentals like answering the phone and...
info_outline
Ep 136. Easy Way? No Thanks. Here’s Why I Pick the Hard Way
The Mulder Life Podcast
Andy discusses practical aspects of running a business, such as managing a team, handling day-to-day operations, and dealing with client relationships. A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, including balancing work with family life, coping with burnout, and the emotional toll of leadership. Andy also shares personal motivations for choosing the demanding path of business ownership, highlighting his faith, love for the work, desire to provide for his family and employees, and commitment to operating a debt-free company....
info_outline
Ep 135. Handling Rain Delays, Creating Company Logos, and Learning To Use Tiltrotators.
The Mulder Life Podcast
Andy discusses various aspects of his landscaping and hardscaping business, touching on topics like equipment recommendations, such as the Encon tilt rotator and the Pave Tool "Bar Box" for tool storage, and employee management strategies, including uniforms and finding reliable staff. Andy also shares insights into business operations, including pricing large projects, designing landscape plans, and handling rain delays. 🎤 Featured Event SynkedUP Contractor Summit — September 11–12, 2025 Use code MULDER to save $250 on registration! 🔗 👋 Connect with...
info_outline
Ep 134. How to Handle Customer Complaints Like a Pro
The Mulder Life Podcast
Andy provides updates on the construction of a material bin pad, detailing its design and purpose for storing various landscaping materials. He also shares a significant business challenge, recounting the loss of a major maintenance contract and the resulting need to restructure routes and manage customer expectations. Furthermore, he answers listener questions, offering advice on handling customer complaints professionally and discussing equipment choices like the Bobcat E20 and Pave Tool clamps, while also addressing a curious incident involving a stolen mower. 🎤 Featured Event SynkedUP...
info_outline
Ep 133. True Crime: The Case of the Stolen $11,000 Mower
The Mulder Life Podcast
The main focus of today's show revolves around a fraudulent transaction involving the sale of a mower, where the buyer used a stolen credit card, resulting in the funds being recalled by Square. Andy outlines the steps he's taking to recover the money and the mower, including contacting police and insurance, while also reflecting on lessons learned about accepting payments. 🎤 Featured Event SynkedUP Contractor Summit — September 11–12, 2025 Use code MULDER to save $250 on registration! 🔗 👋 Connect with Andy 📸 Instagram: 🛒 Shop Mulder...
info_outline
Ep 132. Money Management for Business Owners w/ Stephanie Cowser
The Mulder Life Podcast
This week on the show, we’re joined by Stephanie Cowser from Cowser Consulting. Stephanie is a CPA and fractional CFO who shares why it’s essential for business owners to have expert support when it comes to accounting, tax planning, and overall financial strategy. Whether you’re just starting out or growing fast, this episode is packed with valuable insights that can help you take control of your business finances. Connect with Stephanie: 📧 Email – 📱 Instagram – 🎤 Featured Event SynkedUP Contractor Summit — September 11–12, 2025 Use code MULDER to save $250 on...
info_outline
Ep 131. Getting Help with Finances
The Mulder Life Podcast
A significant portion of today's episode focuses on financial responsibility and business management. Andy shares insights from his personal journey, the influence of the Dave Ramsey program, and the crucial role of his wife and sister-in-law in managing personal and business finances. The podcast also covers business philosophy, including strategies for bidding on large jobs, the importance of customer relationships, and the value of having a supportive team. Finally, Andy answers listener questions about specific equipment like the Hydrobucket and offers advice on managing business growth. ...
info_outline
Ep 130. Material Ordering
The Mulder Life Podcast
Today Andy talks about a large, complex project beginning in August, highlighting its unique design elements like a custom water feature and specialized irrigation for pots, while emphasizing the importance of clear client communication regarding plant warranties. Furthermore, he responds to listener questions on topics such as plant knowledge acquisition, handling difficult clients, favorite trees, and the crucial practice of ordering sufficient materials for construction projects to ensure efficiency and avoid delays. Connect with Andy: Shop Mulder Outdoors: (Use...
info_outlineResources to grow your business (Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST to Save 10%)
https://bladesdirect.net/ (Use MULDER20 to Save $20)
https://www.permapaveredging.com/
https://bruntworkwear.com/ (Code: MulderOutdoors10 Save $10)
https://www.albanesecandy.com/ (Official Candy of the Podcast)
https://thehardscapeacademy.com
Latux Diamond Blades (use code: MULDER and get 20% off)