Ep 147. Lake Effect Snow Chaos: The 18-Hour Plowing Marathon
The Mulder Life Podcast
Andy recounts a recent, intense snowstorm that required significant resources, including the purchase of new snow removal equipment, and caused significant delays to his autumn leaf cleanup schedule. He also provides a detailed update on the construction of his new shop, specifically discussing the recently passed plumbing and electrical rough-in inspections and the impending concrete floor pour. Additionally, Andy takes listener questions on various business topics, such as hiring a foreman, advertising strategies, and his personal philosophy of running a debt-free business. 👋 Connect with...
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Ep 146. My Biggest Contract Yet: Three Years of Guaranteed Snow Work
The Mulder Life Podcast
Today's show offers a comprehensive update on Andy's business operations and the construction of his new shop. He discusses the rapid progress of the shop build, including the completed shell and ongoing electrical and plumbing work, while also soliciting audience input on purchasing a stackable washer and dryer for the facility. Additionally, the podcast details the company's recent acquisition of a significant three-year snow plowing contract, which necessitates the immediate purchase of new equipment, such as a SnowWolf Quattro plow and a salt spreader, and involves hiring additional...
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Ep 145. Next-Gen Equipment: Hybrid Mowers and Automated Couplers + Shop Talk
The Mulder Life Podcast
A major focus of the episode is the rapid construction of Andy's new 60-foot by 150-foot shop and office space, detailing its turnkey nature, dimensions, and various features like floor drains and security plans. He also touches upon industry events he missed, the benefits of running a business debt-free, and answers listener questions on topics ranging from building materials to equipment and light sensors. 👋 Connect with Andy 📸 Instagram: 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: 🧰 Business Resources Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST 📘 🛒 ...
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Ep 144. Our Most Listened To Episode Ever!
The Mulder Life Podcast
This popular episode features a conversation between Andy and Tom Gardocki, also known as "," of New Era Excavation. The discussion covers topics central to the landscaping and excavation industries, specifically focusing on the massive benefits of technology and efficiency in business, such as the use of Encong tilt rotators and Trimble GPS systems. They share personal experiences about the impact of social media on gaining business leads, the complexities of running a business with a partner, and the importance of establishing strong vendor relationships through timely payments. The...
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Ep 143. Magazine Ready: The Complex Backyard Build That Will Be Our Most Beautiful Project
The Mulder Life Podcast
In this episode, Andy explores Mulder Outdoors ongoing “big project,” a truly “Magazine Ready” build that exemplifies complexity, craftsmanship, and meticulous precision. From navigating a challenging backyard layout to installing high-end hardscapes like the Sienna edge wall, drainage, and utilities, every step demands careful planning and execution. The crew’s attention to detail is evident as they spend hours ensuring one critical wall is placed within half an inch of accuracy—its alignment determining the success of the entire project. Featuring custom natural materials such as...
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Ep 142. How Do You Handle Employee Breaking Tools?
The Mulder Life Podcast
Andy answers audience questions, offering extensive advice on how to handle employees who break company tools and equipment, contrasting his lenient approach with a listener's experience of being charged for damages. He also provides updates on his company's ongoing property development and construction projects. 👋 Connect with Andy 📸 Instagram: 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: 🧰 Business Resources Save 10% on top resources with code: MULDERLIFEPODCAST 📘 🛒 💥 Partner Discounts 🧱 — Use MULDEROUTDOORS to save 10% ...
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Ep 141. Payment Schedules: Planning Your Draws So the Final 10% Doesn't Put You Out of Business
The Mulder Life Podcast
Payment Structures that Make Sense... Master your cash flow by taking control of payment schedules. This episode breaks down essential billing strategies, emphasizing that no one payment structure fits all jobs. Learn to structure progress payments based on work completed (or materials delivered), not rigid milestones, to prevent cash flow traps. The strategic goal is to ensure only the final 10% is pending upon project completion. We also cover critical protections, such as including a "winter clause" in contracts, allowing you to bill for work completed to date if weather causes a...
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Ep 140. The Total Money Makeover: Inspiring Your Team to Live Debt-Free
The Mulder Life Podcast
This episode revolves around business and personal finance, with Andy sharing his philosophy on running his landscaping company and his personal life completely debt-free, explaining how this financial discipline impacts his business management and his relationship with his employees. Finally, he answers a few listener questions, including a detailed account of a challenging hydraulic oil stain incident on a job site and some quick thoughts on landscaping equipment. 👋 Connect with Andy 📸 Instagram: 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors: 🧰 Business Resources Save 10% on top resources...
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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...
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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_outlineIn this episode of the Mulder Life Podcast, Andy shares the lessons learned from countless job sites, reflecting on favorite tools, the toughest challenges in business, and the evolution of his office setup. It's an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the continual growth that comes with running a hardscaping business.
Connect with Andy: https://www.instagram.com/mulderoutdoors/
Shop Mulder Outdoors: https://mulderoutdoors.com/shop/
Resources to grow your business (Use MULDERLIFEPODCAST to Save 10%)
https://pavetool.com/ (Use MULDEROUTDOORS 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)