Bug Bux Podcast

In 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 (2:2...

Which 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...

In 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...

Incorporating 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 thr...

Confidence 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 th...

In 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 lea...

The Bug Bux podcast has a few exciting enhancements for 2024! In today's episode, Allan and Eric discuss how the podcast has evolved and improved over time, with better content, more relevant topics, and high-quality guests.  Topics include: Introduction (0:00) How the Bug Bux podcast has evolved (2:27) Allan's journey with the podcast (3:23) Sharing ideas and questions in the Bug Bux Fa...

Starting a door-to-door program can be a valuable tool for growing your pest control company, but it also comes with some challenges. In today's episode, Allan and Eric discuss the pros, cons, and everything you need to know about launching a high-quality in-house door-to-door program and retaining a positive reputation. Topics include: Introduction (0:00) Launching an in-house door-to-door p...

In today's episode, Allan and Eric discuss the importance of pricing in the pest control industry. They highlight how pricing can serve as a marketing tactic, communicating the quality and type of services a company offers.  Topics include: Introduction (0:00) Pricing question from the Bug Bux Facebook group (2:13) How pricing affects long-term goals (6:40) Price increases are necessary for b...

In today's episode, Allan and Eric discuss the significance of having signed service agreements for pest control companies.  Having signed agreements ensures clarity and understanding between parties, and also provides protection from liability.  Topics include: Introduction (0:00)  Essential clauses for pest control service agreements (4:05) Importance of clear service agreements (5:14)  Bui...

From humble beginnings during the Great Depression to becoming a multi-million dollar enterprise, Sprague Pest Solutions has overcome numerous challenges and embraced change. In today's episode, Allan and Eric welcome AJ Treleven. AJ is the Director of Operations at Sprague Pest Solutions and he shares the remarkable story of his family's generational growth in their family business. Top...

Creating measurable marketing accountability is crucial for PCCs to track the performance of their marketing efforts and ensure that they are achieving their goals. In today's episode, Eric provides a step-by-step guide on how to create a high-level, high-accountability relationship with your marketing team. Topics include: Create measurable, accountable marketing relationships (1:54) Qualifi...

The pest control industry offers a range of opportunities for individuals to build successful careers. In today's episode, Allan and Eric discuss their gratitude for the pest control industry and the opportunities it provides. They also highlight the various career paths and growth opportunities that the industry offers, even for individuals without extensive education or experience. Topics i...

What are your biggest hurdles for business growth? In today's episode, Allan discusses things that pest control companies should be focusing on during this time of year when business tends to slow down. Prioritizing important, non-urgent tasks such as training, employee reviews, and system reviews is crucial for success. Topics include: Make a list of things to be done (3:19) Cleaning and mai...

In today's episode, Allan and Eric discuss a question posted in the Bug Bux Facebook group regarding subscription-based billing. There are many pros and cons to help you decide if this is a route that will work for your pest control company. Topics include: Subscription-based services and customer retention (3:10) Long-term vision and strategy (8:19) Implementing changes in your PCC (16:11) S...

In 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) Networki...

Consistency in service protocols is crucial to maintaining a positive customer experience. In today’s part 2 episode, Eric continues to discuss the topic of retention, discussing tips 6 through 10. Topics Include: Communication with customers (4:51) Providing value to customers through technician execution (7:43) Setting expectations and obtaining reviews (10:12) Customer loyalty letters, and revi...

In today’s episode, Eric welcomes Chris Anderson. Chris is the Co-founder and VP of sales at Applause. Eric and Chris discuss the concept of using feedback to improve service quality, and how to motivate technicians to perform better. Topics Include: Providing quality service and feedback (0:29) Employee engagement(3:28) engagement drives performance and growth (6:02) Tracking Google Reviews (11:5...

Whether customers reach out through phone calls, emails, or social media, a prompt response is essential. In today’s episode, Eric dives into the topic of retention. He gives a sneak peek of an upcoming Bug Bux+ course that will provide a comprehensive guide on how to save customers. Eric discusses the course outline and shares his thoughts on the importance of retention in the pest control indust...

Are you prioritizing what matters most in your life and business? In today’s episode, Allan and Eric discuss how to build deeper connections and set higher goals to achieve a higher level of fulfillment in both your relationships and in your pest control company. Topics include: Focus on your “why” (4:43) Evaluate goals for greater success (9:44) Setting goals and reviewing them regularly (10:53)...

A 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 experien...

What’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) Buildin...

In this special 100th episode, Allan and Eric welcome back Mat Rogers, the COO of Lizard SEM. Mat touches on the importance of planning and setting your marketing goals for the following year by focusing on 5 key components. Topics include: Consistency is key to success (2:58) Optimize website for off-season (6:10) Track and monitor marketing data (10:31) Don't overlook digital marketing&apos...

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 for...

Being intentional and proactive in your business is crucial as it allows you to anticipate challenges, explore opportunities, and steer your company toward growth and success. In today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Caleb Fabry. Caleb is the President of Town and Country Pest Solutions in Rochester NY. Caleb shares his experience of taking over the family business and the trust his parents had...