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How a Full-Time State Trooper Built a 900-Client Lawn Care Business on the Side

πŸ“… December 1, 2025 ⏱️ 22:32 🎀 Paul, Naylor, Caleb Alman, Michael Garvey

Chapters

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  • 1:07
    Meet Michael Garvey
    Introduction to Michael Garvey, his full-time job as a state trooper, and his successful 900-client lawn care business.
  • 4:46
    From Trooper to Entrepreneur
    Michael shares his journey of starting a lawn care business while maintaining his state trooper career, inspired by a desire for additional income.
  • 9:39
    Building a Strong Team
    Michael explains how he and his partner, Larry, initially divided responsibilities and gradually hired key personnel like an administrator and technicians to handle growth.
  • 15:39
    Revolutionizing Billing and Payments
    Michael details his transformation from manual check collection to a proactive billing system with cards on file and prepaid options, significantly improving cash flow.
  • 21:47
    Financial Management and Accounts
    He discusses using the 'profit first' model with 15 different bank accounts to manage finances, especially prepaid funds, for various business expenses.
  • 23:42
    Q&A: CRM, Equipment, and Marketing
    Michael answers questions about his CRM (Jobber), equipment used (Permagreen), and marketing strategies, including leveraging existing client bases and local regulations.
  • 29:13
    Partnering for Success
    He elaborates on the unique and non-negotiated partnership with Larry, emphasizing the importance of finding the right fit and mutual support.
  • 31:39
    Training and Delegation
    Michael discusses training his administrative assistant, highlighting her intelligence and the support received from their CRM provider.
  • 33:48
    Managing Time and Life
    He shares his strategies for managing a demanding schedule, including strict daily scheduling, prioritizing family time, and having a supportive spouse.

Speakers

P
Paul
Host
N
Naylor
Host
C
Caleb Alman
Host
M
Michael Garvey
Sergeant First Class State Trooper in New Jersey

Key Takeaways

✦

Delegate effectively: Once tasks become overwhelming, outsource them (e.g., phone answering, CRM management) to free up your time for strategic growth.

✦

Implement proactive billing: Transition from reactive payment collection (e.g., checks under doormats) to proactive systems like cards on file and prepaid options with discounts.

✦

Diversify banking: Use a 'profit first' model with multiple bank accounts to allocate funds for specific purposes (e.g., taxes, payroll, insurance, prepaid services) to maintain financial clarity and stability.

✦

Leverage existing networks: Start marketing by offering new services to your partner's existing client base, providing a low-hanging fruit for initial growth.

✦

Invest in quality equipment: Choose versatile equipment that can handle a range of job sizes efficiently, allowing for growth without constant equipment upgrades.

✦

Find the right partner: If collaborating, ensure your partner is a good fit, sharing vision and complementing skills, fostering mutual support rather than conflict.

✦

Prioritize time management: Utilize strict scheduling, even for personal and family time, to balance multiple demanding roles and avoid burnout. Utilize tools like checklists and half-hour blocks.

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