Shows
Bug Bux PodcastEpisode 186: Nailing the Knock: Mastering Door-to-Door Sales with Eric Bassett & Jake ClausIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus dive into the art (and science) of door-to-door sales—sparked by a real-world question from Dan Christensen in the Facebook group. They unpack why some deals fall apart before the initial service, what it means to sell the right way, and how to train a sales team that closes with integrity. From retention rates to Jake’s proven QBBEC sales flow, this episode is packed with practical insights for owners and reps alike. If you’re building your pest control business through door-to-door, you can’t afford...2025-05-081h 02Bug Bux PodcastEpisode 185: Scaling through Unity and Extreme Ownership with Aaron DavisIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Eric Bassett and Jake Claus sit down with Natura Pest Control's GM and intrapreneur extraordinaire, Aaron Davis. From unexpected beginnings to leading a powerhouse team, Aaron shares the real-world strategies behind building unity, developing leadership, and running tight, high-performing pest control operations. Plus, a hilarious discussion about Jack Black movies, how to lead with love, and why accountability is the ultimate game-changer. If you're ready to transform technicians into leaders and scale smarter, don't miss this one!2025-05-0151 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 184: How to Reduce Customer Cancellations and Boost Retention RatesIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Eric Basset and Jake Claus discuss powerful strategies every pest control company owner needs to know. From the roots of attrition to retention team strategies and subscription billing hacks, they unpack what keeps customers loyal and what sends them running. Whether you're a startup or scaling a large operation, you'll get actionable tips on improving service quality, maximizing recurring revenue, and building a loyal customer base. Tune in and learn how to keep more customers, grow your business faster, and stay ahead in the industry!2025-04-2445 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 183: Rain, Snow, and Pests—Oh My! Pest Control Protocols for Every ForecastIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Eric and Jake dive into the nitty-gritty of how weather impacts pest control—from rainy-day treatments in the Pacific Northwest to snow-driven rodent and vole activity. They share real-world strategies, smart technician tips, and creative product solutions for servicing in tough conditions, all while keeping it entertaining (yes, hot hail makes an appearance). Whether you’re in sunny Arizona or snowy Idaho, this episode will help you weatherproof your service protocols.2025-04-1731 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 182: Crushing Sales Barriers and Revolutionizing Field Teams with PaivIn this powerful episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus sit down with Jess Reagan, co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer at Paiv, to explore how cutting-edge AI technology is reshaping the world of field sales. From real-time coaching and gamification to territory management and CRM integration, Jess shares how Paiv empowers pest control companies to scale faster without growing headcount. This episode is packed with actionable insights, forward-thinking strategy, and a whole lot of laughs. Don’t miss it!2025-04-1050 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 181: Bug Bux Con Recap: A First Time Success and What’s NextIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus dive into the highlights of our very first Bug Bux Con! From a packed event with just six weeks of planning, to scorpion hunting after hours, the conference was a huge success. They share behind-the-scenes stories, unforgettable moments, and key insights from speakers like Lenny Grey, Brad Mortensen, Travis Bottoms and more. Don’t miss out—subscribe to Bug Bux Plus for all the exclusive conference footage!2025-04-0353 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 185: Scaling through Unity and Extreme Ownership with Aaron DavisIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Eric Bassett and Jake Claus sit down with Natura Pest Control's GM and intrapreneur extraordinaire, Aaron Davis. From unexpected beginnings to leading a powerhouse team, Aaron shares the real-world strategies behind building unity, developing leadership, and running tight, high-performing pest control operations. Plus, a hilarious discussion about Jack Black movies, how to lead with love, and why accountability is the ultimate game-changer. If you're ready to transform technicians into leaders and scale smarter, don't miss this one!2025-04-0151 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 180: Industry insights and innovations with Nick Grisafe from SyngentaIn this insightful episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus sit down with Nick Grisafe, a longtime industry expert from Syngenta, to discuss the industry’s biggest challenges and innovations. They dive into Integrated Pest Management (IPM), best practices for application, and why many professionals struggle to implement IPM effectively.Nick also shares exclusive insights into Plinazolin, Syngenta’s groundbreaking new active ingredient—the first new chemistry in nearly 20 years! Plus, he offers practical advice on optimizing Demand CS applications, staying compliant with new regulations, and how top-performing pest control companies set themse...2025-03-2736 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 179: Mastering Product Inventory & Strategy with Pest Management SupplyIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus sit down with Jared Ingalls, Vice President of Sales at Pest Management Supply. Jared shares insights from his 30+ years in the pest control industry, discussing everything from effective vendor relationships and product forecasting to the growing demand for rodent control and best practices for inventory management. Whether you’re a solo operator or running a multi-technician operation, this episode is packed with expert advice on optimizing your product strategy and making the most of industry discounts and sales. Tune in to learn how to strengthen yo...2025-03-2043 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 178: Breaking Barriers in Pest Control: Eve Pappas’ Inspiring JourneOn todays episode of The Bug Bux Podcast, hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus sit down with industry legend Eve Pappas, VP of Business Development & Growth at Hoffman’s Exterminating. With over 40 years in the pest control industry, Eve shares her journey from being one of the few women in the field to leading multimillion-dollar growth initiatives. From her passion for empowering women in pest management to her community-driven leadership and insights on mergers & acquisitions, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and motivation. Tune in to hear how Eve’s impact goes beyond business—helping people, building relationships, and gi...2025-03-1348 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 177: Big accounts, Big Opportunities: How to Land and Manage Large Property Management DealsIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus tackle a hot question from the Facebook group: How do you price and manage pest control services for a large property management company? They break down strategies for setting fair pricing, structuring service agreements, handling warranties, and ensuring profitability—while avoiding common pitfalls. If you’re looking to land and scale large accounts without losing your margins, this is a must listen!2025-03-0633 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 176: Unlocking Growth with Wolfpack AdvisingIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus dive into the fascinating journey of Aaron Shishilla, CEO and founder of Wolfpack Advising. Aaron shares his unexpected career path—from working at Publix, to getting “Claused” by a coworker, to building a nationally recognized digital marketing agency specializing in pest control and home inspection businesses. Discover key marketing strategies, common pitfalls, and how Wolfpack Advising is helping companies scale with measurable ROI. Whether you’re a small startup or an established business looking to optimize your marketing, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’...2025-02-2749 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 175: “This or That” Pest Control EditionIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus shake things up with a unique “This or That” debate—pest control style! With a little help from AI, they tackle industry questions like residential vs. commercial services, DIY pest control vs. professional treatment, contracts vs. one-time services, and more. They also dive into digital vs. local marketing, in-house technicians vs. subcontracting, and even share some hilarious industry insights. Whether you’re a pest control pro looking to scale your business or just curious about the industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights, expert tips, an...2025-02-2034 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 174: Inside Sales Revolution: How Vult is Changing Industry GrowthIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus sit down with Josh Zuniga to discuss Vult, his game-changing inside sales solution for pest control companies. From selling 1,500 door-to-door accounts in a single season to launching a scalable, high-performance sales engine, Josh shares his vision for helping pest control businesses grow faster and more efficiently, without the high costs and challenges of door-to-door marketing. Learn how Vult leverages elite sales talent, maximizes lead conversion, and removes growth bottlenecks for pest control operators ready to scale. If you’re looking for a cost-effective alternative to do...2025-02-1349 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 173: The Power of People: Josh Schiffman’s key to Building a LegacyIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus sit down with industry leader Josh Shifman, owner of Sage Pest Control, to uncover his journey from selling alarms to dominating the pest control space. Josh shares insights on strategic market expansion, the power of community engagement, the role of AI and VR in the future of pest control, and how investing in people is the key to long-term success. This episode is packed with golden nuggets on building and scaling a thriving pest control business. Tune in now!2025-02-0656 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 172: Mastering Price Increases and Customer RetentionIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Eric Bassett and Jake Claus tackle one of the most challenging aspects of running a pest control business: raising prices without losing customers. From maintaining profitability to navigating conversations with long-time clients, they share actionable strategies for communicating price adjustments, managing customer expectations, and dealing with unique cases. Packed with expert insights and pro tips, this discussion is a must-listen for pest control business owners looking to scale successfully while keeping their customers happy. Don’t miss their advice on implementing standalone services for increased efficiency and profitability!2025-01-3048 minBug Bux PodcastEpisode 171: Unconventional Risks, Unexpected Rewards: The Ben Riches StoryJoin hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus in this inspiring episode of the Bug Bux Podcast. Tune in as they sit down with Ben Riches, a 23-year-old high school dropout turned successful pest control entrepreneur. Discover how Ben built his business from scratch, growing it to $250,000 in revenue with nearly 300 recurring customers in just one year. From hustling door-to-door with a minivan full of pest control gear to mastering sales strategies and handling major commercial contracts, Ben’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, creative problem-solving, and relentless determination. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owne...2025-01-2348 minBug Bux PodcastEp 169: Turning Rodents into RevenueIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Eric Bassett and Jake Claus discuss the intricacies of rodent control, offering practical advice for pest control professionals. From investigating rodent activity and pricing strategies to the science behind bait stations and the importance of PPE, this episode covers everything you need to know to create effective rodent management program. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to elevate your pest control business.2025-01-0943 minBug Bux PodcastEp 168: Acquisitions: The Devil in the DetailsIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Eric Bassett and Jake Claus dive deep into the intricacies of purchasing a pest control company. From real-life acquisition stories to tips for minimizing risk, they cover everything you need to know. Whether you’re scaling your pest control company or just exploring growth strategies, this episode offers actionable insights and practical advice you won’t want to miss.2025-01-0231 minBug Bux PodcastEp 167: Risks, Revenue, and Recruiting - D2D Scaling SecretsDive into this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, where hosts Eric Bassett and Jake Claus tackle the nuances of door-to-door sales. From the pros and cons of building an internal sales team to partnering with door-to-door marketing teams, they provide actionable insights and real-world examples. Learn about recruiting, managing, and compensating sales teams, as well as strategies for scaling your business while maintaining a strong brand. This episode is perfect for pest control professionals looking to elevate their growth strategies in the door-to-door realm!2024-12-2636 minBug Bux PodcastEp 166: Beyond the Door: Scaling D2D Success in Pest Control with Sam TaggartIn this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Eric Bassett and Jake Claus sit down with Sam Taggart, the CEO of The D2D Experts and founder of D2DCon, as he shares invaluable insights on transforming door-to-door sales teams, achieving Golden Door success, and the future of pest control growth strategies. Learn how the top sales performers hit 1,000+ accounts, why hustle and mindset trump everything, and how systems like certification programs and industry leaderboards are pushing the industry to new heights. Plus, discover what makes D2DCon the must-attend event of 2025 for owners, managers, and sales reps alike...2024-12-1952 minBug Bux PodcastEp 164: Innovating with Syngenta. Featuring Marshall Gaster, Eric Bassett, and Jake ClausStay a step ahead with Syngenta! In today’s episode, Eric and Jake get all of the insights from Marshall Gaster, Head of Marketing for Pest Control, about Syngenta’s Pest Partners Program, as well as past, present, and future innovation. Tune in to get all of the details, and hear their take on changes in the industry over the years.2024-12-0352 minBug Bux PodcastEp 163: Common Pitfalls in Partnerships with Eric Bassett and Jake ClausThe dynamics of business partnerships often mirror the complexities of personal relationships, particularly marriages. In today's episode, Eric and Jake dive deep into the complexities of business partnerships and how to navigate them effectively. Tune in for insights on partnership dynamics and a touch of holiday nostalgia!Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Business partnership challenges (6:03)Business partnerships as marriages (8:38)Financial pitfalls in partnerships (12:28)Financial communication in partnerships (14:11)Contribution levels in partnerships (19:25)Partnership imbalance and flexibility (21:34)Partnership imbalance and contributions (24:18)Positive dissolution of partnerships (30:21)Conflict in partnerships and communication (31:17)2024-11-2836 minBug Bux PodcastEp 162: How to Delegate Without Micromanaging with Eric Bassett and Jake ClausAlways empower and encourage your managers, even when they make mistakes. Let them know that it's okay to fail and that you're there to support them. In today's episode, Eric and Jake dive into the critical differences between the mindsets of business owners and employees. Eric highlights the importance of leadership, vision, creativity, and risk-taking for owners. Tune in to learn how to cultivate a successful mindset as you build and scale your pest control company.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Maintaining Influence with Managers (7:04)Clear Expectations and Roles (9:19)Employee vs. Owner Perspective (10:20)...2024-11-2133 minBug Bux PodcastEp 161: Actionable Tips to Maximize Productivity with Eric Bassett and Jake ClausIn today’s episode, Eric and Jake discuss the importance of customer engagement in the pest control industry. They emphasize that spending extra time with customers, understanding their needs, and celebrating wins can significantly enhance retention and create positive word-of-mouth. The conversation also highlights the inspection process as a valuable opportunity to introduce additional services to clients. This episode is packed with actionable tips to help you maximize productivity and engagement within your PCC.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Productivity and Engagement (5:36)Technician Productivity: Cloverleafing and Sales (6:15)Technician Sales Training and Incentives (8:22)Technician Re...2024-11-1447 minBug Bux PodcastEp 160: Behind the Scenes at PestWorld: Tips, Tricks, & Vendor Deals with Eric Bassett and Jake ClausIn today's episode, Eric and Jake record from Pest World in Denver, Colorado. They highlight the importance of networking opportunities at Pest World and reflect on the educational content available, including vendor education and new technology in the pest control industry. They emphasize the dual purpose of their presence at the event: engaging with pest control operators and enhancing their knowledge through high-quality classes. Tune in for insights and updates from this special industry gathering!Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Special offer for podcast listeners (3:51)PCO community growth and engagement (8:02)Vendor relationships and discounts (10:18)2024-11-0729 minBug Bux PodcastEp 159: How To Roll Out New Company Policies featuring Eric Bassett and Jake ClausIn any company, the implementation of new policies can often be met with resistance or misunderstanding. In today's episode, Eric and Jake dive deep into the complexities of implementing policy changes within a pest control company, using their recent experience with box elder bugs as a case study. They also emphasize the need for clear communication about the changes, why they are being made, and how they benefit everyone involved, from the company to the customer.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Implementing Policy Changes (4:09)Challenges of Policy Changes in Larger Companies (5:04)Box Elder Bug...2024-10-3132 minBug Bux PodcastEp 158: When to Fire a Customer featuring Eric Bassett and Jake ClausIn the pest control industry, it is essential to recognize when a customer may not be worth the trouble. In today’s episode, Eric and Jake address the challenging decision of when to fire a customer. Sometimes, despite the effort to gain and retain customers, certain clients can be more trouble than they're worth. This includes customers who are abusive, unreasonable, or cost the company more money than they bring in.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Original meaning of Halloween (4:12)When to fire a customer (6:49)Business with future customers (10:24)Customer cancellation motivations (14:16)Cu...2024-10-2436 minBug Bux PodcastEp 157: Stop Losing Customers featuring Erik Maki with Service First Pest ManagementCustomer retention is essential for sustainable growth and profitability. In today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome Erik Maki with Service First Pest Management. Erik shares why companies often lose accounts not necessarily to competitors stealing them, but due to a failure to provide perceived value. When customers feel informed and valued, they are more likely to remain loyal, even in the face of competitive offers.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Music genre choices (5:50)World-class customer service challenges (9:15)Customer service in pest control (12:00)Starting a business journey (15:23)Entrepreneurial support from spouses (20:27)Door-to-door...2024-10-1742 minBug Bux PodcastEp 156: Building an Empire featuring Allan Draper with .proof Pest ControlAttending industry events, such as PestWorld, provides a unique opportunity to meet vendors and fellow pest control professionals. In today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome a very special guest, Allan Draper with .proof Pest Control. Allan shares his experience at PestWorld and encourages attendees to step outside their comfort zones, engage with others, and participate in social events. These interactions can lead to unexpected opportunities and valuable connections!Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Bug Bux Podcast Evolution (5:39)Pro tips for PestWorld (8:32)Networking at PestWorld (11:21)The origin story of Bug Bux (18:11)Community support...2024-10-1044 minBug Bux PodcastEp 155: Revolutionizing Referrals featuring Phil Kirkeiner with Baton LeadsOne of the most pressing challenges faced by PCCs is managing incoming calls from potential customers who fall outside their service areas or require services they do not offer. In today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome Phil Kirkeiner, co-founder and CEO of Baton Leads. Phil shares his unique path from studying music to becoming an accountant, and eventually finding his way into the pest control industry through summer sales. His experiences led him to identify a significant gap in the market: the need for a better referral system for pest control leads.Topics include:Introduction (0:00)2024-10-0342 minBug Bux PodcastEP 154: Building A Better Tomorrow with Eric Bassett and Jake ClausPositive interactions with customers can create a ripple effect within the community. When customers have a good experience, they are more likely to share that experience with others. In today's episode, Eric and Jake discuss several key strategies that PCOs can implement to maintain a positive impact on the industry. In addition, they share insights on how inside salespeople can effectively follow up and create a lasting positive impression, even if the initial call doesn't result in a sale.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Positive impact on the industry (9:32)Community-focused sales approach(10:22)Positive interactions...2024-09-2640 minBug Bux PodcastEp 153: Scripts vs. Genuine Conversations with Eric Bassett and Jake ClausWhether you're in sales, customer service, or a technician in the field, connecting with your customers personally can make all the difference. In today's episode, Eric and Jake share insights from their own experiences in sales and customer service training. They discuss how a well-crafted script can help your team connect with customers and ensure they feel valued. It's not just about the sale, it's about building relationships.Topic include:Introduction (0:00)Maintaining Customer Experience (5:06)Sales Training and Communication (8:07)Creating and Using Sales Scripts (11:06)Importance of Connecting with Customers (14:48)Memorize, Internalize...2024-09-1946 minBug Bux PodcastEp 152: D2D Law Updates: Pros and Cons with Eric Bassett and Jake ClausTraining salespeople in the pest control industry with honesty, integrity, and a high level of professionalism is essential for the success and reputation of your business. In today's episode, Eric and Jake discuss the importance of being proactive and well-informed about regulations in the pest control industry. In addition, they both share their personal experiences of training sales teams with a strong focus on honesty, integrity, and professionalism.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)New Facebook Group for Non-Owners (4:55)Government Regulation in Pest Control (7:09)W-2 vs. 1099 Employees (11:04)Ethical Concerns in Door-to-Door Sales (14:14)Importance...2024-09-1238 minBug Bux PodcastEp 151: Why Customer Education Is A Game Changer featuring Paul Townsend with Animal & Insect Pest Management Inc.Communication, education and retention, are all key components of running a successful pest control company. In today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome Paul Townsend, the Operations Manager for Animal & Insect Pest Management Inc. Educating customers about the services being provided, the potential risks associated with pest infestations, and preventative measures they can take can help them make informed decisions and feel confident in the services they are receiving. By educating customers, pest control companies can also establish themselves as trusted experts in the field.Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Guest Introduction: Paul Townsend (4:02)AIPM Company...2024-09-0545 minBug Bux PodcastEp 150: Green Initiatives and Multi-Generational Success featuring Noah Besheer with Gunter Pest and LawnIn today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome Noah Besheer, the fourth-generation president of Gunter Pest and Lawn. Noah demonstrates a strong commitment to incorporating green and sustainable practices into his pest control company. This dedication is evident through initiatives such as the use of electric vehicles and solar power in the company's operations. In addition, Gunter Pest and Lawn's emphasis on building relationships with their employees is another innovative aspect of their business.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Podcast Milestone: 100,000 Downloads (4:47)Guest Introduction: Noah Besheer (6:09) Remote Leadership Challenges (10:39)Setting Company Vision and Goals (14:45)Personal...2024-08-2943 minBug Bux PodcastEp 149: Turning Pain into Purpose featuring Eric Bassett, Jake Claus, and Jana Claus with Natura Pest ControlThis episode comes with a sensitive content warning as it covers topics such as mental illness, family trauma, suicide, and the loss of a child. In today's episode, Eric along side with Jake and Jana navigate the aftermath of the tragic loss of their 14-year son, Jess Melvin Claus. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the importance of recognizing the small miracles and blessings that occurred amidst the tragedy. They also reflect on how this experience has reshaped their priorities in both their personal lives and our business.Topic Include:Introduction (0:00)Dealing with loss and...2024-08-221h 08Bug Bux PodcastEp 148: Growth, Expansion, and Acquisitions Through Networking featuring Michael Bosco with SafeHaven Pest ControlBuilding relationships and actively participating in industry associations are key factors in creating opportunities for mergers and acquisitions in the pest control industry. In today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome Michael Bosco from Safe Haven Pest Control. Michael discusses the importance of building relationships, networking, and staying engaged in industry associations so PCOs can position themselves for growth, expansion, and successful acquisitions.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Guest Introduction: Michael Bosco (4:41)Michael Bosco's Background (6:26)Transition from Technician to Business Owner(9:57)Growth and Business Model Evolution (10:48)Texas Pest Control Association and Industry Trends (15:48)2024-08-1543 minBug Bux PodcastEp 147: Creating a Culture of Success featuring Josh Fleenor with Pest Pros Pest SolutionsBuilding a strong team with aligned core values is crucial for the success and growth of your pest control company. In today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome Josh Fleener, President of Pest Pros Pest Solutions. Josh shares insights into scaling his business, developing a strong team culture, and the core values that have driven his company's growth. By focusing on core values such as commitment to personal growth and genuine connection, Josh was able to create a positive and supportive work environment where team members feel valued and motivated.Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Managing technicians...2024-08-0842 minBug Bux PodcastEp 146: Political Stances and Your Pest Control Company featuring Eric Bassett and Jake ClausAs a PCO, it's okay to have opinions and engage in political discussions, but it's crucial to be intentional about what you say publicly. In today's episode, Eric and Jake discuss why business owners should be cautious about making public statements that could be polarizing. The goal is to ensure that your business remains focused on what truly matters—providing excellent pest control services and maintaining good relationships with both employees and customers.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)How to navigate polarizing conversations (4:27)Blue-collar industry and political leanings (9:16)Social media impact on business (15:21)Su...2024-07-3134 minBug Bux PodcastEp 145: Important Marketing Updates with LSA and Local SEO featuring Mat Rogers with Lizard SEMIn today's episode, Eric and Jake dive into the world of digital marketing with special guest, Mat Rogers, COO of Lizard SEM. Mat discusses the latest features in Google's digital marketing landscape and how they impact pest control companies. If you want to stay ahead of your competitors and drive engagement, don’t miss this information packed episode.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Guest Segment: Mat Rogers (5:43)Current Trends in Digital Marketing (6:24) Importance of Local SEO (8:45)SEO vs. Local SEO Explained (10:06)Keywords and Content Creation (12:57)Enhancing Google Business Profiles (18:15)Creating Keyword-Specific Content (19:07)2024-07-2539 minBug Bux PodcastEp 144: 20 Tips to Grow Your PCC with Eric Bassett and Jake ClausWhether it's through digital marketing, community involvement, or direct engagement, there are numerous ways to grow your pest control company. In today's episode, Eric and Jake address a question posted from Dominion Pest Control in the Bug Bux+ Facebook Group. Dominion Pest Control is a new company looking for advice on how to get customers. Eric and Jake share their top 20 tips for acquiring new customers.Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Shoutout to Dominion Pest Control (3:45)Getting Customers: No Easy Way (6:11)Leveraging Friends & Family for Initial Customers (7:29)Creating a Google My Business Profile...2024-07-1847 minBug Bux PodcastEp 143: Leveraging NPMA and PPMA Tools featuring Jim Fredericks with the National Pest Management AssociationIn today's episode, Eric and Jake had the pleasure of hosting Jim Fredericks, the Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at the National Pest Management Association (NPMA)/Executive Director of the Professional Pest Management Alliance (PPMA). Jim shared a wealth of knowledge about the resources and opportunities available through NPMA and PPMA, which are designed to help PCOs grow and succeed.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Introduction to Guest: Jim Fredericks (3:33)PPMA and Its Mission (6:38)Consumer Outreach and Impact (10:30)PPMA's Social Media and Video Projects (11:08)Mainframe Content for PCOs (15:00)NPMA Resources...2024-07-1143 minBug Bux PodcastEp 142: 4th of July as a PCO - Legacy and EntrepreneurshipLight the candles and get ready to sing, because it's America's birthday! In today's episode, Eric and Jake discuss the significance of America as the land of opportunity and the impact of immigrant heritage on their entrepreneurial journey. They explore the value of hard work, the freedom to pursue happiness, and the unique opportunities available in America.Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Immigrant Heritage: The Drive to Build a Better Life in America (5:15)The Fourth of July: A Symbol of Opportunity and Freedom in America (15:46)Opportunities as Business Owners (17:50)Book Recommendation: “The Go-Giver” (23:38)Valu...2024-07-0432 minBug Bux PodcastEp 141: Together We Achieve More featuring Erik Anderson with Utah Pest and LawnIn today’s episode, Eric and Jake welcome Erik Anderson, owner of Utah Pest and Lawn. Erik shares his experience in sales, management, and entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of integrity in sales, the power of networking and starting his own pest control company.Topics include:Introduction (0:00)The Journey of Erik Anderson: From Sales to Entrepreneurship (2:52)Integrity in Sales: Building Trust and Long-Term Relationships (8:05)Knowing the Science of Products (19:04)Networking: The Influence of Supportive Relationships (22:43)Challenges of Studying for ACE Certification (25:07)Growth and Future Plans (27:00)2024-06-2738 minBug Bux PodcastEp 140: Reducing Peak Season Call Backs with Staffing and Communication StrategiesIn today’s episode, Eric and Jake discuss the challenges and strategies of managing a pest control company during the peak season. They cover topics such as customer expectations, triaging reservices, staffing, and the use of social media for education and brand building.Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Creating the Right Expectations From the Start (5:13)Communication Process with Customers (11:09)Managing Customer Expectations and Reservices (13:54)Social Media and Educational Content (21:57)Strategies for Staffing and Forecasting During the Busy Season (29:01)Navigating the Peak Season to Avoid Burnout (35:30)2024-06-2044 minBug Bux PodcastEp 139: Building the Right Team Early featuring Billy and Taylor Wright with Zona Pest SolutionsBuilding a strong team dynamic based on trust and support is essential for the success of your pest control company. Today Eric and Jake welcome Billy and Taylor Wright, owners of Zona Pest Solutions. Billy and Taylor highlight the importance of early hiring to drive growth for their business. By bringing on a new employee, they were able to focus on growing the business, acquiring new accounts, and expanding their reach in the market. Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Guest Introduction (1:50)Starting in Door-to-Door (7:37)Discussing Different Markets (12:32)Transitioning to Owning a Business (15:30)Hiring t...2024-06-1345 minBug Bux PodcastEp 138: Building a Family Business That Lasts featuring Scarlett Nolen with Truly NolenIn today's episode, Eric and Jake have the pleasure of interviewing Scarlett Nolan, the president of Truly Nolan of America. Scarlett discusses the significance of intentional culture in companies, emphasizing the need for proactive discussions and actions to shape a positive work environment. Scarlett also talks about the challenges and benefits of working in a family business, highlighting the importance of defining success, and the evolving priorities of different generations in the workforce.Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Importance of Culture in Pest Control Companies (5:30)Family Systems (7:32)Family business dynamics (17:33)Tips for Successful Family-Run...2024-06-0642 minBug Bux PodcastEp 137: Data-Driven Growth Strategies featuring Cameron Bawden with Green Mango Pest ControlIn today's episode, Eric and Jake have the pleasure of welcoming back Cameron Bawden a serial entrepreneur and the owner of Hype Farm Premium Home Services, which oversees several successful brands including Green Mango Pest Control. Cameron shares valuable insights on how he has significantly improved his company's profit margins and strengthened its culture. In addition, Cameron discusses effective strategies for scaling his business while maintaining a strong company culture and high operational standards.Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Importance of data integrity(4:43)Sharing vision with employees(8:51)Company-wide monthly meetings (13:33)Company culture and training...2024-05-3040 minBug Bux PodcastEp 136: Scaling with Integrity and Trust featuring Matt Thompson with BugPro Pest ControlEpIn today's special Memorial Day episode, Eric and Jake welcome Matt Thompson, owner and CEO of BugPro Pest Control. Matt shares his inspiring journey from being an Airborne Ranger in the United States Army to unexpectedly finding a fulfilling career in pest control. His military background not only instilled a strong sense of discipline and integrity but also deeply influenced his business philosophy. Matt emphasizes the importance of trust, both in the military and in pest control, highlighting how his commitment to honesty and quality service has helped build lasting relationships with his clients.Topics include:Introduction (0:00)...2024-05-2342 minBug Bux PodcastEp 135: Cultivating a Performance-Driven Environment featuring Colton Gonzales and Eric Salgado with Firehouse Pest ControlIn today's episode, Eric and Jake had the pleasure of welcoming back Colton Gonzalez and Eric Salgado with Firehouse Pest Control. These returning guests shared valuable insights into their journey from firefighting to pest control, emphasizing the importance of integrity and customer service in their business model. In addition, by establishing a system where technicians were incentivized for their sales performance and customer service, they motivated their team members to excel in their roles and contribute to the company's success. Topics Include:Introduction and Sponsor Mention (0:00)Guest Introduction: Colton Gonzalez and Eric Salgado (3:04)Transition f...2024-05-1639 minBug Bux PodcastEp 134: Building a Strong Company Culture Through Brand Identity Featuring Shane Mantz with Magna Pest SolutionsStorytelling is a powerful tool that can be used to build connections and trust with customers, clients, and employees. In today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome Shane Mantz, the regional operations manager at Magna Pest Solutions. Shane discusses the importance of creating a strong brand identity based on core values. In addition, by understanding what is important to you as an individual or organization, you can develop a brand identity that reflects those values and resonates with your target audience.Introduction (0:00) Connecting storytelling with business growth (5:38)Importance of brand identity and storytelling (10:20)2024-05-0932 minBug Bux PodcastEp 133: Overcoming Hiring Challenges Featuring Dennis Kuchta with Wise House Environmental ServicesIn today’s episode, Eric and Jake welcome Dennis Kuchta, founder and CEO of Wise House Environmental Services in South Florida. Dennis sheds light on the struggles many business owners encounter in attracting individuals with a strong work ethic and commitment to their roles. He also expresses his concerns about not wanting to sacrifice customer care for rapid growth, as he values his clients and wants to provide them with the best service possible. Topics include:Introduction (0:00) A PCO turned recording artist (1:22) Scaling a pest control business (5:00) Quality versus size of companies (8:47) Lea...2024-05-0239 minBug Bux PodcastEp 132: Changing the World Through Pest Control: Featuring Rian & Noelle Goins with Get Goins Pest ControlIn today's episode, Eric and Jake had the pleasure of speaking with the dynamic husband and wife duo, Rian and Noelle Goins, owners of Get Goins Pest Control in Los Angeles. They share their incredible journey from inheriting a small client list to building a thriving business through the power of social media and referrals. The Goins couple is not only making waves in the pest control industry but also leaving a significant impact on their community through their non-profit organization, Keep It Goins Foundation. They've been involved in legislative efforts and are active members of the pest control...2024-04-2545 minBug Bux PodcastEp 131: Scaling with Purpose: Featuring Casey Jones with Hydra Pest ControlBuilding a pest control company should align with personal goals, not just financial gain. In today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome Casey Jones, owner of Hydra Pest Control. Casey emphasizes the importance of starting a business with the end goal in mind and focusing on creating a company that aligns with personal values and long-term goals. He shares the journey that led him from various industries to the pest control industry, driven by a desire to provide for his family and contribute positively to his community.Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Guest Introduction: Casey Jones from Hydra...2024-04-1836 minBug Bux PodcastEp 130: Building a One-Stop Pest Control Shop: Featuring Degen Perry with Black Pearl Pest ControlFrom door-to-door sales to owning a pest control company, this story is one of hard work and determination! In today's episode, Eric and Jake had the pleasure of chatting with Degen Perry, owner of Black Pearl Pest Control. Degen shares his journey from considering a career in dentistry to becoming a pest control owner during the uncertain times of 2020. Degen discusses the advantages of offering a variety of pest control services to become a "one-stop-shop" for customers. Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Guest Introduction: Degen Perry (2:40)How Black Pearl Pest Control Got Its Name (4:00)Degen's J...2024-04-1134 minBug Bux PodcastEp 129: Evaluating and Improving Your PCC Featuring Shad Teerlink with Evolve Pest ControlLeadership, empathy, and inspiring team growth are essential elements in building a successful pest control company. In today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome Shad Teerlink, CEO of Evolve Pest Control. Shad shares his experience of establishing and expanding Evolve Pest Control, highlighting the necessity of ongoing evaluation and improvement in both leadership and operations. Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Origin story of Evolve Pest Control (5:15)Leadership and company culture (9:45)Building systems for scalability (14:33)Building a strong team (17:47)Plan or No Plan? (25:14)Determination and Learning in Business (28:36)Challenges of being a leader (33:50)2024-04-0439 minBug Bux PodcastEp 128: “Would You Rather” Pest Control EditionIn today’s episode, Eric and Jake play a fun, thought-provoking game of "Would You Rather.” They debated various scenarios, such as: Focusing on customer retention vs. acquisition, saying out of debt vs. leveraging growth debt, hiring experienced technicians vs. training newbies and so much more! Topics Include: Introduction (0:00) Would You Rather Game: Pest Control Edition (3:41)Retention vs. Customer Acquisition (4:18) Hiring Experienced Technicians vs. Training Newbies (5:52)Expanding Service Offerings vs. Sticking to Core Services (11:00) Short-Term Profitability vs. Long-Term Sustainability (14:02) Staying Out of Debt vs. Leveraging Debt for...2024-03-2834 minBug Bux PodcastEp 127: Customers "Under Contract" - Pros and Cons of 12, 18, and 24-Month CommitmentsEric and Jake kicked off today’s episode discussing the importance of having a customer agreement, which outlines the services provided, payment details, and other legal protections. They answer a question posted in the Bug Bux Facebook group by Jordan Wheeler. The question is “I've seen more D2D companies doing 18-24 month agreements. What is your general pest agreement length?”Topics include:Introduction (0:00) Topic Introduction: Pest Agreement Length (3:17)Importance of Customer Agreements (5:00) Philosophy Behind Term Commitments (6:30) Pros of Not Having a Term Commitment (10:07) The Value of C...2024-03-2130 minBug Bux PodcastEp 126: Maximizing Digital Marketing Strategies: Featuring Expert Mat Rogers from Lizard SEMPest control owners need to carefully allocate their marketing budgets to ensure they are maximizing their return on investment and driving revenue growth. In today's episode, Eric and Jake have pleasure of hosting Mat Rogers, the COO of Lizard SEM, for his seventh appearance on the show. Mat shares invaluable insights into the world of digital marketing for pest control companies, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond just one tool or platform. Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Catching Up with Mat Rogers (2:07)Marketing Strategies and Budgeting (5:21)2024-03-1433 minBug Bux PodcastEp 125: AI Innovations in Pest Control: Featuring Aaron Cooper with SameDayAI technology in pest control has the potential to revolutionize the industry by enhancing efficiency and improving customer interactions. In today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome Aaron Cooper, the co-founder and CEO of SameDay. SameDay's Artificial Intelligence will answer the phone and book appointments, just like your best sales person. Aaron discusses how AI can efficiently handle customer inquiries and scheduling with precision and consistency. Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)Meet Aaron Cooper, CEO of SameDay (2:40)The Cost of Missed Leads in Pest Control (6:32)From Concept to Reality (8:00) The Capabilities of SameDay's AI (13:04) Voi...2024-03-0737 minBug Bux PodcastEp 124: Mastering the Art of Networking and Branding with Kevin ReifNetworking and connecting with industry professionals can be a game-changer for your pest control company. This week, Eric and Jake had the pleasure of chatting with Kevin Reif, an inspiring entrepreneur who shares his journey from door-to-door sales to launching his own pest control company, Reif Environmental. Kevin also shares insights into how he developed a brand that conveys trust and professionalism, attracting quality customers and fostering long-lasting relationships. Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Kevin Reif's story (4:33)Networking and business growth (8:01)Kevin's biggest challenge (9:22)Preparing for busy season (14:05)2024-02-2933 minBug Bux PodcastEp 123: From Lawn Care to Pest Control: A Journey of GrowthIn today’s episode, Eric and Jake welcome Jonas Olson the CEO of Turf Badger and host of the Pest Control Millionaire Podcast. Jonas shares his candid story of starting out in lawn care, transitioning to pest control, and the lessons learned along the way. He emphasized the importance of focusing on one service, mastering it, and then scaling up before adding more services. Topics include:Introduction (0:00) Introducing Jonas Olson (2:33)Jonas’s Background in Pest Control (5:25)Transitioning to Pest Control from Lawn Care (10:00)Scaling the Pe...2024-02-2235 minBug Bux PodcastEp 122: From Corporate to Entrepreneurship: How to Build Your Own Pest Control BrandIn today's episode, Eric and Jake welcome Jerry Wickwire and Josh Tonn, co-owners of Freedom Force Pest Control. Before starting their own company in 2021, both co-owners gained valuable experience in the pest control industry. Hear their incredible journey, marketing tactics, and how they built a strong brand. Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Background of Freedom Force Pest Control (2:22)Transitioning to Business Ownership (3:15)Origin of the Name Freedom Force Pest Control (5:55) Branding and Logo Design (7:28) Marketing and Branding Strategy (10:27) Utilizing Angie/Home Advisor (12:15) Social Media and Online Presence (15:10) Family and Friends in Business (19:32) Importance of Go...2024-02-1529 minBug Bux PodcastEp 121: Choosing the Right Service Vehicle for Your OperationWhich key considerations should you keep in mind when it comes to choosing your service vehicle? This decision isn't easy and will greatly impact your operation. In today’s episode Eric and Jake Discuss their experience with different vehicles, and they share their top considerations when selecting a service vehicle. Topics include:Introduction (0.00) Question posted by Kris Holden in the Bug Bux Facebook group (2:57)History of Natura’s fleet vehicles (3:51)Considerations for choosing service vehicles (9:20)Importance of vehicle safety (12:57)Capabilities and Capacity (14:56)Longev...2024-02-0826 minBug Bux PodcastEp 120: Building a Successful Pest Control Company: Delegation, Growth, and Employee AspirationsIn today's episode, Eric and Jake discuss the importance of hiring your replacement in order to free up your time and focus on the aspects of your pest control business that you truly enjoy. Tune in to learn how to scale and grow your pest control company while overcoming unexpected challenges. Topics include:Introduction (0:00) Question from Matthew Mariscal in the Bug Bux Facebook Group (3:04) Advice for Technicians with High Aspirations (4:44) Encouraging Intrapreneurship (5:57) Delegating to Grow Your Business (7:45) Non-Compete and Non-Solicit Agreements Explained (10:03) Bui...2024-02-0131 minBug Bux PodcastEp 119: Measuring Technician Performance: Deciding Which KPIs Matter MostIncorporating KPIs into your pest control company is crucial for strategically achieving goals and objectives. In today’s episode, Eric and Jake answer a question posted by Jake Ingledue in the Bug Bux Facebook group. The question is, “If you could only pick 3 KPIs for technicians, what do you feel are the most important?” Eric and Jake dive deep into this topic and they each discuss their top three answers. Topics Include:Introduction (0:00)KPIs for technician performance (3:53)Evaluating service technicians' efficiency and quality (9:19)KPIs for service businesses: reservice rate an...2024-01-2533 minBug Bux PodcastEp 118: Establishing Customer Expectations: Setting the Good, and Avoiding the BadConfidence is king and success comes from being confident with your business decisions and customer expectations. In today’s episode, Eric and Jake answer several questions posted in the Bug Bux Facebook group. Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Pest control logistics and customer expectations (3:50)Pest control marketing strategies and customer communication (8:00)Price lock guarantees and their potential drawbacks (13:50)Challenges of offering free inspections (19:00) Sales strategies and customer requests (25:13)Pest control safety and standard operating procedures (28:56)2024-01-1833 minBug Bux PodcastEp 117: Introducing the New Co-Host Jake Claus and Exploring the World of Pest ControlIn today's episode, host Eric Bassett introduces his new co-host, Jake Claus, who brings 19 years of experience in the pest control industry. Jake is not only Eric's brother-in-law but also the founder and co-owner of Natura Pest Control. Together, they discuss various aspects of the pest control business, including door-to-door sales, technical expertise, operational management, and leadership development. Topics include:Introduction (0:00)Jake's experience and perspective (2:10)Golden handcuffs and career choices (11:08)Door-to-door pest control experiences (13:42)Community involvement in pest control (21:44)Maintaining presence with customers (23:15)2024-01-1133 minBug Bux PodcastEp 107: Recapping PestWorld 2023: Highlights and InsightsIn today's episode, hosts Allan Draper and Eric Bassett discuss the importance of maintaining and nurturing relationships in the pest control industry. They emphasize the need to keep in touch with contacts made at events like PestWorld, whether they are vendors, presenters, or fellow pest control owners.Topics include:PestWorld recap (2:11)A relaxed and enjoyable PestWorld (6:11)Networking benefits (8:41)Choose vendors wisely, prioritize relationships (13:20)Align with vendors who share values (17:07)Importance of PestWorld for networking and industry potential (23:34)Join Bug Bux Facebook group for feedback (26:14)2023-11-0227 minBug Bux PodcastEp 102: From Startup to Success: Why Having a Mentor is Crucial for Business GrowthA mentor can help you discover the essential steps to establish a trustworthy and reputable brand, paving the way for exponential growth in your pest control company. In today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Colton Gonzales and Eric Salgado, the owners of Firehouse Pest Control. They discuss the importance of taking action and getting started, even if you don’t have all the knowledge or experience.Topics include:How they got started (2:05)First $400 check from door knocking (3:41)Creating an environment for growth (8:07) Finding a mentor in pest control (12:21) Collaboration in the pest...2023-09-2830 minBug Bux PodcastEp 101: Bug Bux+: The Ultimate Pest Control Business SchoolWhat’s new with Bug Bux+? In today’s episode, Eric welcomes back Hunter Annen, Co-Founder and President of Bug Bux+.Eric and Hunter discuss the courses offered by Bug Bux+ and reflect on the positive feedback they have received from PCOs.Topics Include:Pest control business growth and learning platform (1:57)Feedback from PCOs (6:38)Pest control courses and vendor partnerships (11:06)Building a pest control platform with vendor partnerships (19:27)Streamlining vendor connections for pest control companies(23:51)2023-09-2134 minBug Bux PodcastEp 99: Measuring Employee Performance and the "After Action Review (AAR)"How often are you doing performance reviews for employees? Which review format is best? Eric answers a question posted by Shane Mantz in the Bugbux Facebook group. "Has anyone implemented an end-of-season, after-action review?" Eric answers the what, how, and why, of performance reviews.Topics include: Where to start (1:50) Technician performance examples (3:07) Using a structured format (12:58) Getting non-performance related feedback (18:34) Teaching your team to self-evaluate (20:15)Ten easy steps for a simple and effecting performance review (21:22)2023-09-0725 minBug Bux PodcastEp 96: 40 Years and $25 Million: What Does it Take to Building a Lasting, Successful Company?In today's episode, Eric welcomes Austin Burns. Austin is the director of operations at Burns Pest Elimination. What started as a father and son business in 1983 with 43 customers and one service truck has turned into a $25-million venture for the Burns family. Eric and Austin discuss the importance of finding a unique differentiator in the pest control industry and why building a strong team is crucial for success. Austin also shares the challenges and rewards of running a family business and the impact it can have on future generations.2023-08-1734 minBug Bux PodcastEp 94: Expert Tips For Building and Managing A Winning Inside Sales Team For Your Pest Control CompanyIn today’s episode, Eric discusses the process of building and maintaining a high-performance inside sales team. Eric provides answers to the 10 most common questions he receives about inside sales, covering topics such as when to create an inside sales department, finding the right candidates, the onboarding process, and compensation plans. If you are looking for a comprehensive how-to guide on creating, developing, and scaling a high-performance inside sales team visit www.bugbuxplus.com for more information.2023-08-0337 minBug Bux PodcastEp 90: How to Use Educational Tools to Grow Your Pest Control CompanyAre you feeling stuck and in need of some guidance to kickstart or scale your pest control company? In today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Hunter Annen. Hunter is the President and Co-Founder of Bug Bux+. Allan, Eric, and Hunter discuss all the aspects of the Bug Bux+ platform. This high-quality, professional platform was designed to help PCOs learn from multiple industry experts. Check out www.bugbuxplus.com for more information.2023-07-0639 minBug Bux PodcastEp 85: Meaningful Ways to Differentiate Your Pest Control Company from CompetitorsTune in to this episode and catch Allan and Eric as they share their top five strategies for distinguishing your company from others. In today’s episode, Allan and Eric answer a question posted in the Bug Bux Facebook Group: How to differentiate your company from competitors in a meaningful way? They discuss the importance of creating a personal connection not only with your customers but also with your employees. As a PCO, it's crucial to remember your core foundational strengths, and values, and leverage them to set yourself apart.2023-06-0129 minBug Bux PodcastEp 78: The Ultimate Recap: Eric Bassett's Breakdown of Episodes 75 and 76In this episode, Eric Bassett provides a comprehensive recap of a few recent podcast episodes. Episode 75 is all about protecting your existing customer base from door knockers from other companies. In episode 76, Eric highlights key topics of various questions posted in the Bug Bux Facebook group. This is a recap episode you won't want to miss.2023-04-1321 minBug Bux PodcastEp 73: Bringing Answers to Your Pest Control Questions: A Live Q&A Event with Your Hosts Allan Draper and Eric BassettIn today’s episode, Allan and Eric answer questions asked during the Bug Bux Facebook live event on February 28th, 2023. A few of the topics that were discussed are:1. How does different weather affect the pest control industry?2. The pros and cons of giving out free estimates for pest inspections.3. Growing your pest control company into a new market and what kind of marketing budget you should have.Thank you to all the PCOs that participated. Please submit questions for future episodes in the Bug Bux Facebook Group.2023-03-0929 minBug Bux PodcastEp 72: Tips for Improving Driver Safety and Creating an Exceptional Safety Culture in Your Pest Control CompanyIn today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Andrew de la Chapelle. Andrew has worked in the telematics space for years and he created driving scoring matrices that are used today by many leading telematics companies. Allan, Eric, and Andrew discuss some of the dangers of driving and why investing in formal driving training is critical for your pest control company. Telematics with tracking helps companies get a clear picture of vehicle location, performance, driver productivity, fuel use, and most importantly, safety. In addition, formal driving training is important for pest control technicians to ensure that they are driving sa...2023-03-0234 minBug Bux PodcastEp 71: The Power of Exceptional Customer Service For Your Pest Control CompanyIn today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Lee Thompson. Lee fell in love with the pest control industry after being recruited by Terminix and later ran their 4th largest office in the country. Allan, Eric and Lee discuss why investing in exceptional customer service can have a big impact on your bottom line. Providing great customer service will lead your Pest Control Company to better customer retention, loyalty, and customer acquisition costs.2023-02-2331 minBug Bux PodcastEp 70: Unveiling Industry Secrets: Hosts Allan Draper and Eric Basset Answer Burning Questions from Pest Control ExpertsIn today’s episode, Allan and Eric answer questions asked by PCO’s in the Bug Bux Facebook group. The questions answered in this episode are:1. At what point is a customer too much of a liability?2. What’s the best way to build relationships and camaraderie between 3rd party D2D representatives and the technicians working with them?3. What is the revenue per technician that you are shooting for?Thank you to everyone that participated. Listeners can submit questions for future episodes in the Bug Bux Facebook Group.2023-02-1625 minBug Bux PodcastEp 66: Building Profitability in Your PCC with Financial StatementsIn today’s episode, Allan and Eric review a sample Profit and Loss or P&L statement. The P&L statement is important because it summarizes the total income and total expenses for your pest control company. In addition, for budgeting purposes, a P&L provides an overview of the financial health of your business. Follow along as Allan and Eric explain the fundamentals of reading and understanding this important financial statement.Allan's % of Income Comparison2023-01-1938 minBug Bux PodcastEp 64: Tips for Building a Feedback Culture For Your Pest Control CompanyIn today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Read Flake. Read is a highly accomplished entrepreneur, business owner, and e-commerce professional. He founded Green Country Pest Control in Houston and is the Co-owner and founder of Pest SOS. He is also the co-founder and co-owner of Bug Police Pest Control in the Phoenix area. Read shares this journey and experience with owning a pest control company and hiring his grown kids as employees in various departments of his business. Allan, Eric, and Read discuss growth strategies to develop their teams and tips for building a strong company culture.2023-01-0528 minBug Bux PodcastEp 63: Grow Your Pest Control Company Through Acquisitions with Chase Goodeill: Part 2In today's episode, Allan and Eric welcome Chase Goodeill back to the show for part two from last week's episode. Chase is the President of Goodeill Holdings Inc. and the owner of Pest Control Consultants.Allan, Eric, and Chase collectively discuss the top ten things that should be in place to increase the value that a company will get upon an exit or a sale.2022-12-2942 minBug Bux PodcastEp 60: Why Women Should Work in the Pest Control IndustryIn today's episode, Allan and Eric welcome back Georgia Eaton. Georgia is the owner of Got Gophers. They are located in the bay area and have been in business for almost 4 years. Allan, Eric, and Georgia talk about the benefits of having women in the pest control industry. In addition to owning a pest control company, there are several different opportunities at every level for women in the pest control industry such as, customer service representatives, female pest control technicians, and management positions.Guest Links:https://gotgophers.co/https://www.linkedin.com/in...2022-12-0832 minBug Bux PodcastEp 58: Are You Building A Profitable Pest Control Company To Sell?In today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Jared Borg. Jared started in the pest control industry in 2001, then started his own business, Pointe Pest Control in 2006. He is currently part owner of PestCo and running their residential division. PestCo is a private equity acquisition company that partners with successful, well-established pest control companies. Allan, Eric, and Jared discuss the business acquisition process and what criteria are needed for a successful private equity acquisition. If you are building your pest control company to sell, showing profitability with good customer and employee retention is an important acquisition strategy.2022-11-1738 minBug Bux PodcastEp 57: How to Optimize Your Website for SEOIn today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Mat Rogers with Lizard SEM. When it comes to marketing, there are specific terms every pest control owner should know. Allan, Eric and Mat discuss two commonly used marketing terms, Search Engine Optimization and Search Engine Management and what they mean to pest control companies. In addition, it is important to make investments to your website to drive traffic and optimize SEO.https://lizardsem.com/2022-11-1035 minBug Bux PodcastEp 55: What Does It Take to Start A Door-To-Door Sales Team?In today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Juan Godinez. Juan started in the pest control industry in 2006 as a door-to-door sales rep for Rove Pest Control. He soon became Rove's top sales rep and manager year after year. He is currently involved in several aspects of Rove’s growth strategy across its various markets. Allan, Eric, and Juan discuss the importance of understanding the costs of doing D2D from both a practical aspect and a financial aspect. A pest control owner must have a solid plan and training systems in place to create a space where D2D re...2022-10-2731 minBug Bux PodcastEp 47: Achieve Success in Your Pest Control Company by Developing a Winning Mindset and Strong HustleIn today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Jake Claus. Jake is the Founder, President, and Co-owner of Natura Pest Control based in Vancouver, Wa. Jake is an Associate Certified Entomologist, Structural Pest Inspector, and holds licenses in several pest-related categories. Allan, Eric, and Jake discuss how the pathway to success is found in having a strong work ethic and winning mindset. In addition, a PCO should view obstacles as opportunities to learn, grow and improve.2022-09-0130 minBug Bux PodcastEp 46: The Secret to Pest Control: Take Care of Employees and Develop Great ManagersIn today's episode, Allan and Eric welcome Andrew Beck. Andrew is the CEO of Aruza Pest Control. Andrew holds multiple certifications in process improvement, business analysis, and project management. Allan, Eric, and Andrew discuss the importance of creating a culture where employees and managers feel they are doing meaningful work. In addition, having an ongoing review process or After Action Review (AAR) provides an opportunity to assess what is working and what needs improvement in your pest control company.2022-08-2537 minBug Bux PodcastEp 38: Grow Your Pest Control Company by Delegating EffectivelyIn today's episode, Allan and Eric Welcome Jake Ingledue, the founder and owner of 417 Pest Solutions. Allan, Eric, and Jake discuss how effectively leveraging your resources by developing employees, delegating tasks, and creating systems, and processes will save time and energy, and help you build a culture of problem solvers.2022-06-3043 minBug Bux PodcastEp 35: Find Your “Why” to Perform and Grow Your Pest Control Company at a Higher LevelIn today’s episode, hosts Allan Draper and Eric Bassett discuss how early entrepreneurs can grow their pest control company by finding what truly motivates them. Allan shares his start-up story and where he was headed career-wise before he started in the pest control industry. He also talks about things that were difficult for him in the beginning stages of being a business owner. In addition, Allan discusses why it’s so important to find your “why.” The earlier you find your “why” and create your core values for your company, the faster success will come.2022-06-0936 min