In this episode of The Untrapped Podcast, Keith drops a brutally honest look at the least talked about part of running a landscaping business: where the hell do you store your equipment when you're just starting out? From hiding trailers in random parking lots to begging for space at a factory, Keith opens up about the stress, fear, and shame that hits when you're hustling with no place to park your truck, trailer, or tools—and how that chaos bleeds into your confidence, marriage, and mindset.
But the conversation goes way deeper than storage. Keith breaks down the psychological tug-of-war every new business owner faces: survival mode vs. vision mode. He shares real stories of towing threats, HOA fines, break-ins, and racing against storage-unit closing times… then contrasts that with the moments of inspiration, clarity, and big dreams that come only when the noise finally stops. You'll hear about maintaining perspective during 90-day sprints, avoiding burnout in the busy season, and why losing your "larger view" is what actually drags you into apathy and depression.
This is Keith at his realest—no sugarcoating, no guru talk. Just the raw truth about anxiety, responsibility, growing up as a business owner, and refusing to stay trapped. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, ashamed, or one breakdown away from parking your trailer in a stranger's yard out of desperation… this episode is your reminder: you're not alone, you're not crazy, and you can build the stability and freedom you're fighting for.
"If you feel overwhelmed, that's not a sign to quit. It's a sign you're on the edge of leveling up."
– Keith Kalfas
Topics Covered:
The early grind of having nowhere to store your truck, trailer, or tools
Towing scares, HOA drama, and hiding equipment just to stay afloat
How constant anxiety leads to rushed, survival-mode decisions
Working nonstop yet still feeling like you're falling behind
Being broke forcing creativity, resilience, and uncomfortable growth
Breaking out of "employee thinking" and stepping into an owner mindset
Community tips and real-time advice from other contractors
How different seasons shift your mindset—hustle mode vs. big-picture mode
The burnout loop: long days, shrinking perspective, and creeping depression
Why industry events and community support (like GIE) keep you sane and motivated
Key Takeaways
Solve the "Parking Problem" Early
Your sanity depends on stability. A reliable place to store your trailer and equipment isn't a luxury—it's foundational. Lock in a storage lot, co-op deal, client yard, or commercial space early so you're not living in constant fear of tows, fines, or break-ins.
Survival Mode Isn't a Business Plan
Shift from panic decisions to long-view leadership. When you're overwhelmed, every problem feels like a crisis. But long-term success comes from stepping out of reaction mode—planning seasons, protecting your mindset, and keeping perspective even when the grind gets ugly.per day. Bigger tickets + fewer trips = cleaner math and calmer schedule.
Community Keeps You From Breaking
Don't build alone—borrow strength from others. Events like GIE, industry groups, and fellow contractors give you clarity, solutions, and the reminder that you're not the only one fighting through chaos. The right community can shorten your learning curve and keep you moving when you'd otherwise burn out.
Connect with Keith
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keithkalfas/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelandscapingemployeetrap
Website: https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@keith-kalfas
Resources and Websites:
Start Getting Leads Now https://www.footbridgemedia.com/keith
The Untrapped Alliance: https://www.keithkalfas.com/alliance
Resources You Need To Build A Successful Business https://www.keithkalfas.com/resources
🙋♂️Get My Free Landscaping Business Startup Video Series Here👇
Here https://www.keithkalfas.com/Landscaping-Series
Landscaping Course https://keith-kalfas.mykajabi.com/store/8bFERMcs
LANDSCAPING BUSINESS
How to Guide: https://www.keithkalfas.com/16
Get Jobber: https://getjobber.com/im/ambassador-referral/?gspk=a2VpdGhrYWxmYXM4NTIx&gsxid=Rs6pwtznLDcs
Get Ballard: https://www.ballard-inc.com/
Easy Budgeting Blueprint: keithkalfas.com/budget
Smartphone Video Creation Guide: Keithkalfas.com/smartphone
Identifying Your Superpower: Keithkalfas.com/superpower
Become An influencer And Monetize Your Expertise: https://www.keithkalfas.com/influence
Multiple Ways to Monetize: https://www.keithkalfas.com/multipleways
LevelUp Your Landscaping Business to $100K and beyond: https://www.keithkalfas.com/LEVELUP
