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The Rootzone Podcast is hosted by Chris Stoudt, owner of Stout Lawn and Pest, and it’s about the real side of running a service business.
Chris talks with owners, decision-makers, and skilled operators across the service industry—from lawn care and pest control to restaurants and trades—about what actually happens behind the scenes. The wins, the losses, the long days, the bad calls, the people decisions, and the pressure that comes with building something from the ground up.
There are no highlight reels here. Just honest conversations about leadership, marketing, hiring, mistakes, and learning how to build a team that doesn’t fall apart when things get hard.
If you work in the service industry and you’re in the trenches trying to grow a business that lasts, this podcast is for you.
Episodes

May 15, 2024
May 15, 2024
52 min
This episode was somewhat self-indulgent. I responded to a cold call/email, a rare occurrence, and met berts_turf. It turned out he was a golfer and possibly had products suitable for the lawn care industry. Fast forward 18 months, and now some of Aspen Outdoors' products are integrated into the Stout Turf Care program. As a lawn care owner, I believe the golf market holds some hidden secrets. We also delve into automated mowers....Huh?
Thanks, Al
@berts_turf
https://www.aspen-outdoors.com/
Providing a tick and mosquito control service? Tick and Skeeter Deleter is an all natural repellent with an aroma even the neighbors will enjoy! Use discount code "ROOTZONE" for 5% off any purchase at YardComfort.com

Apr 4, 2024
Apr 4, 2024
57 min
After a bustling conference season, I had the pleasure of sitting down with John Perry, the Owner of Green County Fertilizer Company. Our conversation ranged from his beginnings in the green industry to his intriguing TV appearances, all the way to the humble origins and current success of GCF. It was truly inspiring to interview such a prominent figure in the industry. I hope everyone enjoys this episode as much as I did.
https://www.greenecountyfert.com/
Providing a tick and mosquito control service? Tick and Skeeter Deleter is an all natural repellent with an aroma even the neighbors will enjoy! Use discount code "ROOTZONE" for 5% off any purchase at YardComfort.com

Mar 11, 2024
Mar 11, 2024
59 min
We discuss the humble beginnings of two brothers starting a business, growing into a 5000 sq. ft shop, and their mutually beneficial relationship with Stout Lawncare. Plus we talk about the importance of building up your employees and training them for success!
Providing a tick and mosquito control service? Tick and Skeeter Deleter is an all natural repellent with an aroma even the neighbors will enjoy! Use discount code "ROOTZONE" for 5% off any purchase at YardComfort.com

Feb 29, 2024
Feb 29, 2024
15 min
Me and Steph sit down for a quick interview about how she got her start in the green industry and how she has handled a new job, a new marriage, and doing all this while running to small businesses. Thanks again Steph for your time.
https://yardcomfort.com/

Feb 26, 2024
Feb 26, 2024
1 hr 30 min
In this joint podcast with The Turf Nutrition and Management Podcast, Kevin Salters visits from Suffield, Connecticut to talk about how his passion for human nutrition helped him build his business Root Development, knowing your limits as an owner and when to ask for help, and adapting your home life to become more environmentally friendly. Plus, Kevin reveals what he saw at 14 years old that sold him on the lawn care industry forever!
Providing a tick and mosquito control service? Tick and Skeeter Deleter is an all natural repellent with an aroma even the neighbors will enjoy! Use discount code "ROOTZONE" for 5% off any purchase at YardComfort.com

Feb 12, 2024
Feb 12, 2024
1 hr 19 min
In this episode, Joe from Royersford Fence Company explains how he turned a side job into a second full-time job. We discuss work-life balance, especially when raising a family and being a teacher, and if there is such a thing as an "exit plan." Plus, where to put your advertising dollars in a world where everyone is on the Internet, and the intricacies of sharing responsibilities with you business partner!
Call Joe for more info on Royersford Fence Co. at 610-564-1142
Providing a tick and mosquito control service? Tick and Skeeter Deleter is an all natural repellent with an aroma even the neighbors will enjoy! Use discount code "ROOTZONE" for 5% off any purchase at YardComfort.com

Dec 25, 2023
Dec 25, 2023
1 hr 10 min
In this episode, we talk to Kara and Greg Lehman, an incredible couple who are the proud owners of Kara Jo Skincare (https://www.karajoskincare.com/) and the Kara Jo Bee Farm. Our conversation takes us on their remarkable journey, starting with the discovery of a solution to Kara's personal skincare issue, which eventually blossomed into a thriving business venture. Since then, Kara and Greg have expanded their horizons, acquiring a new property to help accommodate the growing needs of their apiary, which now houses an impressive collection of over 50 bee hives. We also delve into the concept of responsible environmental stewardship, urging a shift in mindset when it comes to the products we use in the lawn care industry. Be sure to show your support by liking, following, and exploring their pages, as they offer exceptional products and inspiring content.
https://www.youtube.com/@mindyourhivesbeekeeping
Instagram:

Dec 11, 2023
Dec 11, 2023
1 hr 6 min
Chris Lerch joins the podcast to discuss the origins of Hello422, launching during the pandemic to help small businesses, and leveraging social media for success.
