Growing a Family Business with Bret Achtenhagen of Seasonal Services on

📅 June 25, 2025 ⏱️ 46:05 🎤 Marty Grunder, Bret Achtenhagen

Chapters

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0:00

Introduction & Background

Marty Grunder introduces Bret Achtenhagen, who shares his entrepreneurial upbringing on a farm and the genesis of Seasonal Services.
0:10

Defining the Business Niche

Bret explains how Seasonal Services stands out by using EOS principles and clearly defining its core values, niche, and target market, focusing on high-end residential clients.
0:20

Radio Show Marketing

Bret details his long-running gardening talk show on WISN, discussing its evolution, benefits to his business, and advice for others considering similar ventures.
0:26

Marketing & Brand Image

Bret highlights marketing tactics like builder partnerships, LinkedIn, and maintaining a pristine fleet, emphasizing the importance of image and consistency.
0:32

Peer Groups & Training

Bret shares the value he derives from peer groups and continuous training, stressing the importance of accountability, financial comparison, and learning from others.
0:37

Family Business & Succession

Bret discusses the dynamics of working with family, his succession plan for his son, and the importance of building a strong team around future leaders.
0:42

Humility & Seeking Help

Bret emphasizes the importance of humility, seeking external help from coaches, lawyers, and accountants, and the belief that you cannot do it all yourself.

Speakers

Marty Grunder

Host — Owner, Grunder Landscaping Company and The Grow Group

Bret Achtenhagen

Owner, Seasonal Services

Key Takeaways

✦

Clearly define your business's niche and core values to differentiate yourself in the market; trying to be everything to everyone leads to a lack of identity.

✦

Invest in maintaining a pristine company image, from clean vehicles and uniforms to well-maintained job sites, as this reinforces your brand's commitment to quality.

✦

Consider niche marketing opportunities, such as local radio shows or advertising on school folders, to reach your target demographic in a unique and consistent way.

✦

Actively participate in peer groups for invaluable insights, accountability, and the shared experience of navigating business challenges, even if it requires a significant investment.

✦

Build a strong support team, including coaches, lawyers, and accountants, especially when planning for succession or scaling your business, to ensure stability and informed decision-making.

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