Snow Talk with SIMA

Most snow professionals aren’t prepared for the next salt shortage - and it could cost your business more than you think. In this eye-opening episode, industry expert Phil Sexton reveals the hidden factors behind the 2025-26 salt crisis and offers actionable strategies to future-proof your operations. Phil breaks down the domino effect of regulations, environmental impacts, and global dependencies...

Jack of All People Trades' founder Evan Tachoir joins Snow Talk to share his perspectives on employee engagement, delegation and how to thrive when you understand your "why".

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the highs and lows of a truly unpredictable winter. From the historic mid-March 2026 storms that blanketed the Northeast and upper Midwest to the challenging droughts out West, we’re breaking down the data that defined the last four months. This episode features insights from two industry powerhouses: Deb Mattson, CSP (Business Manager at Allied Snow Removal...

Snow Talk host Martin Tirado speaks with England-based Accugrit's Dean Harvey to chat the differences in snow and ice management in North America compared with the United Kingdom. Plus, they talk a little football (not the American kind).

In this episode of Snow Talk, host Martin Tirado speaks with Jacob Shivo, a leader in the snow and ice management industry. Jacob shares his journey into the field, his company's response to Hurricane Pauline, and the importance of community and networking in the industry. The conversation highlights the challenges faced during recovery efforts, innovations in snow management, and the signific...

Join me on this episode of Snow Talk as we explore the vital connection between sales and operations at EMI, a leading snow management company. We'll discuss how EMI effectively aligns these departments to streamline processes, enhance communication, and ensure operational efficiency, especially during winter storms. I’m joined by Scott Shelton, the Business Development Manager, and Zach Kolas...

In this episode of Snow Talk, we explore the unique challenges of snow management in the Mid-Atlantic region, from Washington, DC, to Baltimore. Joined by industry experts Steve Mruk of Potomac Lawns and Mike McCarron of ImageWorks Landscaping, we delve into the complexities of operating in an area with inconsistent snowfall. We discuss the impact of heavy traffic, school schedules, and government...

In this conversation, SIMA Foundation CEO, Martin Tirado, discusses the role of associations and their sister organizations, 501c3 foundations, can build the industry through research and the importance of understanding the industry's impact for growth. He emphasizes the need for financial support from stakeholders to continue this progress with his guest, SIMA Foundation Board Chair, Jim Horn...

In this year-in-review podcast, Martin Tirado, CEO of SIMA, discusses the past year's achievements and future plans with board members Chris Hinton, CSP (GRM Inc.) and Jeff Heller, CSP (Innovative Maintenance Solutions). They highlight strategic planning initiatives, the launch of the Accelerate program for emerging leaders, and the upcoming symposium in Cincinnati. The conversation emphasizes...

Jim Plona, Director of Snow & Ice at McNelly Services in Lake Zurich, Illinois, and Evan Newman discuss how to scale a snow business – smartly and sustainably.

In this episode of Snow Talk, we dive into the financial landscape of the snow and ice management industry with Steve Wolff, founder of WOLFFWORKS Consulting. We explore the findings of SIMA's 2025 Profitability and Benchmarking Study, which surveyed 161 firms across North America. Discover how the average snow business operates, from revenue streams to cost structures, and learn about the eco...

In this episode of Snow Talk, Evan Newman from SIMA sits down with Kevin Stonitsch, CSP, owner of Adirondack Customs, to explore the vital topics of culture and accountability in the snow industry. We delve into the importance of building an engaged team and the tough decisions leaders must face, including letting go of team members who do not align with company values. Kevin shares his experience...

Russ Marsan of Carpenter & Costin in Vermont joins Snow Talk to discuss his efforts in elevating the importance of the trades through his work with Bring Back the Trades.

Blizzards in the deep south...say what?! Levi Jett, CSP, ASM, joins Snow Talk to share stories of how he and a team of snow fighters traveled to New Orleans to assist municipalities that were out of their element when a blizzard bore down on a large swath of the south.

JC Grounds Management's Jon Crandall, CSP, discusses the importance of educating property managers on snow removal. He also shares his new book, which he wrote to help the industry with that outreach.

Snow Mikhail Ter-Grigoryan, president of Just for Snow Property Services, covers his insights on the snow removal industry, including preparation, best practices, employee engagement, innovation, competition, attracting and identifying talent, workplace culture, momentum, risk-taking, and perspective.

On this month's episode of Snow Talk, we sit down with President of G. McNeill & Son Contracting, Shane McNeill. He shares what lessons and hardships have looked like navigating a third generation family owned business. We also discuss what he does to develop his people and what tools have proven to be useful in their growth goals. We'll also discuss what Shane and company are keeping a pulse...

This month on Snow Talk, we're remembering Alan Steiman, a SIMA leader who left a lasting impact. Deb Mattson and Debora Babin Katz join us to share stories of Alan and discuss the scholarship created in his name. We'll also talk about the value of attending the SIMA Symposium and how it's evolving for contractors. Don't miss it! Thanks to our sponsors Western, Fisher, and SnowEx

Building trust through transparency  Nick Alborella, Vice President of Advanced Snow Management, talked with SIMA about the importance of trust and transparency in building client relationships, the foundational strategies for launching a snow management business, and the role of technology in enhancing communication and efficiency.  He highlights the necessity of being comfortable with discomfort...

We wrap up 2024 with a great episode featuring Outdoor Pride Landscaping & Snow Management's Billy Butts and Garden Grove Commercial Grounds and Snow Management's David Lammers, who talk about the power of networking. Hint ... it's not about what's in it for you!

Skyline's Mark Arthofer joins SIMA's Evan Newman to talk about building partnerships and relationships between private snow contractors and public works entities like municipalities, airports, military bases and more.

Industry consultant Angela Cenzalli and The Integra Group’s Jenny Girard explore personal experiences with mental health challenges, the detrimental industry norms that contribute to burnout, and the importance of creating a culture of wellness and support.

Bill Akehurst, Vice President and Chief Information Officer for Akehurst Landscape joins Snow Talk to discuss worst-case scenarios that snow & ice management companies could face. Host Cheryl Higley, Director of Education & Content for  SIMA , is joined by Amanda Pruss, SIMA's senior membership manager to go over scenarios like cyber attacks, fire, accidents, and more.

Tory Chlanda from Betterview Landscapes in Amherst, MA  joins Snow Talk to share the importance of intentionality in business planning and how it leads to greater sales and revenues. Listen for these tips and more:   Selling safety can set a company apart from the competition. Educating clients on the importance of safety and communicating it through various channels is key to success.  Hiring the...

It's summer but it's never to early to start reviewing your winter preventive maintenance plans! Stork's Plows' Jeen Stork joins Snow Talk to talk about the perils of ignoring preventive maintenance and how even the littlest missed details can cause big trouble. Listen for these tips and more:   Preventive maintenance is crucial for snow equipment to prevent wear and costly breakdowns. The role of...