The Mulder Life Podcast

Andy shares his reflections on the past year and details for next Monday's Christmas giveaway IG Livestream. He also discusses the consideration between needing versus wanting when it comes to year-end purchases for tax purposes, emphasizing the importance of smart financial decisions. The conversation also dives into equipment choices, touching on loaders, track machines, telehandlers, and how th...

Andy delves into the setbacks and frustrations faced during the construction of his new building, including a humorous take on the open cell spray foam insulation debate. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes the importance of generosity, especially in the context of giving Christmas bonuses to employees. Drawing from personal experiences and industry standards, he underscores the significance of...

This episode discusses the challenges faced due to heavy snow in the area, detailing the Andy's snow removal operations, equipment used, and the unexpected busy schedule. Interactive Q&A covers topics such as comparing snow equipment like the Kubota wheel loader and skid steer, handling project delays due to weather, and managing customer expectations and payment terms. Mulder also shares insights...

In this episode of the Mulder Life Podcast, Andy dives into hardscaping challenges, winter operations, and major updates on his new shop build. He discusses the ongoing problems he's experienced with traditional concrete edging—specifically summer grass dieback and edging pull-away—and explains why he's considering transitioning to hybrid edging. The conversation also covers the recent concrete po...

Andy recounts a recent, intense snowstorm that required significant resources, including the purchase of new snow removal equipment, and caused significant delays to his autumn leaf cleanup schedule. He also provides a detailed update on the construction of his new shop, specifically discussing the recently passed plumbing and electrical rough-in inspections and the impending concrete floor pour....

Today's show offers a comprehensive update on Andy's business operations and the construction of his new shop. He discusses the rapid progress of the shop build, including the completed shell and ongoing electrical and plumbing work, while also soliciting audience input on purchasing a stackable washer and dryer for the facility. Additionally, the podcast details the company's recent acquisition o...

A major focus of the episode is the rapid construction of Andy's new 60-foot by 150-foot shop and office space, detailing its turnkey nature, dimensions, and various features like floor drains and security plans. He also touches upon industry events he missed, the benefits of running a business debt-free, and answers listener questions on topics ranging from building materials to equipment and lig...

This popular episode features a conversation between Andy and Tom Gardocki, also known as " The Dirt Ninja ," of New Era Excavation. The discussion covers topics central to the landscaping and excavation industries, specifically focusing on the massive benefits of technology and efficiency in business, such as the use of Encong tilt rotators and Trimble GPS systems. They share personal experiences...

In this episode, Andy explores Mulder Outdoors ongoing "big project," a truly "Magazine Ready" build that exemplifies complexity, craftsmanship, and meticulous precision. From navigating a challenging backyard layout to installing high-end hardscapes like the Sienna edge wall, drainage, and utilities, every step demands careful planning and execution. The crew's attention to detail is evident as t...

Andy answers audience questions, offering extensive advice on how to handle employees who break company tools and equipment, contrasting his lenient approach with a listener's experience of being charged for damages. He also provides updates on his company's ongoing property development and construction projects. 👋 Connect with Andy 📸 Instagram:  @mulderoutdoors 🛒 Shop Mulder Outdoors:  muldero...

Payment Structures that Make Sense... Master your cash flow by taking control of payment schedules. This episode breaks down essential billing strategies, emphasizing that no one payment structure fits all jobs. Learn to structure progress payments based on work completed (or materials delivered), not rigid milestones, to prevent cash flow traps. The strategic goal is to ensure only the final 10%...

This episode revolves around business and personal finance, with Andy sharing his philosophy on running his landscaping company and his personal life completely debt-free, explaining how this financial discipline impacts his business management and his relationship with his employees. Finally, he answers a few listener questions, including a detailed account of a challenging hydraulic oil stain in...

Today Andy is discussing various aspects of his company, from equipment upgrades like trading in excavators for newer models to the ongoing construction of a new facility to house operations. He emphasizes a philosophy of slow and financially responsible business growth, cautioning against the "10x" rapid expansion mentality prevalent online, which he believes often leads to financial instability...

Andy discusses equipment and technology, particularly the benefits and complexities of using a Trimble GPS rover for site layout and measurement, emphasizing its efficiency and accuracy. Additionally, the episode touches upon strategic business decisions like equipment investment and prioritizing learning new skills. 🎤 Featured Event SynkedUP Contractor Summit  —  September 11–12, 2025 Use code ...

Andy shares some exciting shop developments like a new solar-powered gate installation and free asphalt millings acquisition, plus he answers your most pressing industry questions. This episode tackles budget-friendly hardscaping equipment recommendations, strategies for maintenance companies transitioning into hardscaping, the specialization versus diversification debate, and the critical importa...

Andy discusses practical aspects of running a business, such as managing a team, handling day-to-day operations, and dealing with client relationships. A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, including balancing work with family life, coping with burnout, and the emotional toll of leadership. Andy also shares personal motivations for cho...

Andy discusses various aspects of his landscaping and hardscaping business, touching on topics like equipment recommendations, such as the Encon tilt rotator and the Pave Tool "Bar Box" for tool storage, and employee management strategies, including uniforms and finding reliable staff. Andy also shares insights into business operations, including pricing large projects, designing landscape plans,...

Andy provides updates on the construction of a material bin pad, detailing its design and purpose for storing various landscaping materials. He also shares a significant business challenge, recounting the loss of a major maintenance contract and the resulting need to restructure routes and manage customer expectations. Furthermore, he answers listener questions, offering advice on handling custome...

The main focus of today's show revolves around a fraudulent transaction involving the sale of a mower, where the buyer used a stolen credit card, resulting in the funds being recalled by Square. Andy outlines the steps he's taking to recover the money and the mower, including contacting police and insurance, while also reflecting on lessons learned about accepting payments. 🎤 Featured Event Synke...

This week on the show, we're joined by Stephanie Cowser from Cowser Consulting. Stephanie is a CPA and fractional CFO who shares why it's essential for business owners to have expert support when it comes to accounting, tax planning, and overall financial strategy. Whether you're just starting out or growing fast, this episode is packed with valuable insights that can help you take control of your...

A significant portion of today's episode focuses on financial responsibility and business management. Andy shares insights from his personal journey, the influence of the Dave Ramsey program, and the crucial role of his wife and sister-in-law in managing personal and business finances. The podcast also covers business philosophy, including strategies for bidding on large jobs, the importance of cu...

Today Andy talks about a large, complex project beginning in August, highlighting its unique design elements like a custom water feature and specialized irrigation for pots, while emphasizing the importance of clear client communication regarding plant warranties. Furthermore, he responds to listener questions on topics such as plant knowledge acquisition, handling difficult clients, favorite tree...

Andy offers advice on handling customer material sourcing for landscaping jobs, strongly advising against it due to liability and logistical complexities. Furthermore, the episode provides extensive updates on a new shop building project, detailing earthwork, foundation plans, and the decision to use spray foam insulation. Finally, he discusses camera system recommendations for shops and offers in...

Andy discusses ongoing business operations, including building a new facility and managing site work logistics such as earth moving and material acquisition. He also shares practical advice on customer relationship management, emphasizing setting realistic expectations regarding project timelines and the importance of thorough cleanup to ensure client satisfaction. Additionally, the episode covers...

This week Andy discusses a variety of topics with his listeners. He highlights the ongoing construction of his company's new facility, detailing earthwork progress, challenges, and his decision to hire a general contractor. Andy also shares personal reflections on family businesses and work-life balance, drawing insights from his own experiences and other entrepreneurial resources.  Connect with A...