The Better Contractor Podcast

In this episode of The Better Contractor, Brent Oberlink breaks down the keys to standing out in your role—whether you're an operator, laborer, or foreman. Learn how to stop the "us vs. them" mentality, take full ownership of your work, and develop an entrepreneurial mindset that gets you noticed. Brent shares powerful tips for leading, managing, and excelling, while offering practical advice to h...

In this episode of The Better Contractor podcast, Brent Oberlink is joined by marketing expert Amber Callan and co-host Travis May. Amber’s journey was not a clear path, but it landed her where she is today. Amber dives into actionable marketing tips for businesses, including how to efficiently use your Google Business profile and repurpose existing content. Travis contributes his insights on inte...

In this episode of The Better Contractor Podcast, we dive into the essence of effective sales strategies that go beyond just closing deals. In this short episode, we explore the importance of building genuine relationships in business. Is your sales approach transactional, or are you focused on long-term connections? Discover actionable tips on how to be authentic, offer real solutions, and follow...

In this episode of The Better Contractor podcast, host Brent Oberlink is joined by his wife and business partner, Aney Bailor to tackle the most pressing issues in the contracting industry: the labor shortage and low bids. With demand skyrocketing and skilled workers in short supply, many contractors find themselves in a bind. Brent and Aney offer actionable strategies for attracting and retaining...

In this episode of The Better Contractor podcast, join host Brent Oberlink as he tackles some viewer submitted questions from contractors and business owners. Wondering when to add another crew? Curious about the one piece of advice that can set your business on the right path? Brent dives deep into these topics and more, providing actionable insights and practical wisdom for those navigating chal...

In this episode of The Better Contractor Podcast, hosts Brent Oberlink and Travis May discuss  the essence of entrepreneurship with guest Chans Weber, where risk and grit play pivotal roles in shaping success. Our guests share their unfiltered experiences, from navigating toxic business partnerships to understanding the importance of data-driven decisions in marketing. They discuss the hard t...

Join us in this episode as Brent Oberlink and Travis May sit down with Jacki Saxton, a dynamic Account Manager at Agile & Co Digital Marketing Agency. Jacki brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, with a career that seamlessly blends her passion for education and digital marketing. With over a decade spent shaping young minds as a Secondary Social Studies Teacher, Jacki made...

Join us in this insightful episode with Brent Oberlink and Travis May as they delve into the essential qualities that define effective leadership. Explore the importance of laser-focused execution without losing sight of the big picture, and learn how consistent execution and follow-through build trust and reliability within a team. Discover the significance of clear and concise communication, and...

In this episode of The Better Contractor, Brent Oberlink and Travis May explore the essential qualities of grit and discipline, drawing on their personal experiences in the military and entrepreneurship. They delve into the distinctions between externally imposed and self-imposed discipline, and how these concepts translate into the business world. The discussion also covers the four key component...

In this episode of The Better Contractor Podcast, Brent Oberlink delves into the transformative experiences of young entrepreneur, Jadie Keck, who began her journey through the CEO program. Coming from a small school, she shares how the skills acquired through the program set her apart, enabling her to confidently engage with professors and peers. The CEO program didn't just provide business knowl...

In this episode of The Better Contractor, hosts Brent Oberlink and Travis May delve into essential strategies for distinguishing your business in a crowded market. They discuss the power of a unique selling proposition and how it can be the cornerstone of your business identity. The hosts explore effective branding techniques, emphasizing the importance of creating a memorable and impactful brand...

Welcome back to The Better Contractor Podcast. In this episode, Brent Oberlink and Travis May share insightful tips into the pivotal role of emotional intelligence in leadership. They discuss how emotional intelligence (EI) involves recognizing, understanding, and managing our own emotions while empathizing with others. Brent and Travis emphasize the importance of leaders developing self-awareness...

Join us on this episode of The Better Contractor Podcast with hosts Brent Oberlink and Travis May for an enlightening conversation with Billy Davis, the owner of Arborscapes, a successful tree care company with over 20 years of dedication and excellence. Billy shares his inspiring passion of transforming perceptions of tree care work from temporary jobs to long-term professions, emphasizing the im...

Join hosts Brent Oberlink and Travis May on The Better Contractor Podcast as they dive into the world of marketing for trades industries. In this episode, they explore the critical role of marketing in shaping a company's reputation, attracting customers, and recruiting top talent. From engaging content creation to leveraging social media and the latest AI technologies, discover practical tips and...

Welcome back to this insightful episode of The Better Contractor as we discuss the world of tree care and safety with Kristoffer Rasmussen, a seasoned arborist and safety expert. From his humble beginnings on a family farm in Wisconsin to becoming a leading figure in arboriculture training and safety, Kristoffer shares his journey and the passion that drives him. We explore the importance of safet...

In this episode of The Better Contractor Podcast, hosts Brent Oberlink and Travis May dive into the evolving landscape of hiring practices. They challenge the traditional emphasis on formal education and status, “pedigree”, advocating instead for a focus on “performance”, the work they did and how they did it. Through engaging discussions, they highlight the importance of asking the right question...

Welcome back to The Better Contractor Podcast. In this episode, we discuss the intersection of financial acumen and crisis management with Travis May and Brent Oberlink. In this episode, they guide entrepreneurs through the maze of uncertainty, revealing the invaluable role of cash reserves and bold decision-making in weathering storms and seizing opportunities. Through real-life anecdotes and ind...

In this episode, join host Brent Oberlink with Travis May, Jon Keck, and Jay Keppler as they jump into the critical importance of follow-through and communication in entrepreneurship. Drawing from personal experiences and insightful anecdotes, they explore how effective communication and diligent follow-through can make or break business relationships and endeavors. From the challenges of managing...

Welcome back to The Better Contractor Podcast. Join hosts Brent Oberlink and Travis May as they discuss the critical components of creating and maintaining a consistent company culture. From discussing the importance of core values beyond mere rhetoric to exploring strategies for attracting and retaining top talent, they provide invaluable insights backed by real-world examples. Learn how to align...

In this episode of The Better Contractor Podcast, Join Brent Oberlink and Travis May as they dive into the world of business, leadership, and community service on The Better Contractor Podcast with guest, Josh Guin from Oak Bros Trees. On the episode, they discuss entrepreneurial beginnings, and pivotal moments that shaped their company's trajectory, including a transformative event that...

Welcome back to another episode of The Better Contractor Podcast.  In this episode, we go deep into the heart of the landscaping industry's transition to cordless technology. Hosts Brent Oberlink and Travis May are joined by industry expert Todd Zimmerman from PositecUSA to unravel the latest trends, challenges, and breakthroughs in the world of cordless landscaping equipment. Through engagin...

Welcome back to another episode of The Better Contractor Podcast. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode provides actionable advice and inspiration for thriving in today's tech-driven world. In this engaging episode of The Better Contractor Podcast, hosts Brent Oberlink and Travis May join Jackie Guin from Oak Bros Trees to discuss the ever-evolving landscape of...

In this insightful podcast discussion, Brent Oberlink, Tucker Willms, and Travis May discuss the dynamics of effective leadership. Join us as we explore the significance of leading with logic, nurturing genuine care for team members, and fostering a culture of accountability. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, discover how to empower individuals to take ownership, communicate effective...

Welcome to the newest episode of The Better Contractor. In this episode, we embark on a transformative journey through life in the entrepreneurial landscape. Join hosts Brent Oberlink, Tucker Willms, and Travis May as they delve into the intricacies of entrepreneurship, personal growth, and leaving a lasting impact in the business world, in the contracting industry and beyond. Explore the power of...

Attack Speed and Massive Action! Transforming a business isn't only about strategic hires and innovative practices; it's also about igniting a passion that resonates from the core of its culture, a principle Michelle Wangler from Precision Landscape embodies deeply. At the heart of our latest podcast episode lies the compelling "why": cultivating a workplace not merely as a space to work, but a pl...