Scaling a pest control business is no small feat, but RIDD Home Services (https://www.ridd.com/) has done it with remarkable efficiency. In this episode, we sit down with Dan Farah (https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-farah-96a475a1/), Chief Administrative Officer at RIDD, to discuss how the company has grown exponentially since its founding in 2020 — landing a coveted spot on the PCT Top 100 list. Dan shares how his background in corporate finance and software development equipped him with the skills to streamline operations, optimize FieldRoutes, and create a scalable staffing strategy. From automating tasks to refining scheduling, his insights offer valuable takeaways for any pest control business looking to improve efficiency. Join us as we discuss: [4:47] Key contributors to RIDD’s exponential scaling since 2020 [10:22] Software tools to help streamline operations and marketing [17:01] How the pest control community provides support for growth Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: Pest Control Technology Top 100 (https://www.pctonline.com/page/top-100-companies/) FieldRoutes Pathfinder Network (https://www.fieldroutes.com/lp/pathfinder-network) You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/field-famous/id1672665453), on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/0xgfGTzqcCflFqwa3e1F0T?si=3727553614b145fd), or here (https://www.fieldroutes.com/resources/podcast).  Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What truly sets a pest control business apart? According to Denise Trad-Wartan (https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisewartan/), it’s all about company culture and leveraging the right technology to streamline operations. The CEO of Trad’s Pest Control (https://www.tradspestcontrol.com/) in Jacksonville, FL, shares how she transitioned into the industry, the critical changes she made to improve safety and efficiency, and why FieldRoutes became a game-changer for her company. She also unpacks why strong leadership and team empowerment are the secret ingredients to standing out in a competitive market. Tune in for an insightful discussion on how culture and technology drive pest control success. Join us as we discuss: [6:55] How an intuitive CRM can accelerate business growth [12:07] The benefits of customizable tools and digital automation [17:50] Why company culture is your biggest competitive advantage Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: FieldRoutes (https://www.fieldroutes.com/) Accountability: The Key to Driving a High-Performance Culture (https://www.amazon.com/Accountability-Key-Driving-High-Performance-Culture/dp/0071831371) by Greg Bustin You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/field-famous/id1672665453), on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/0xgfGTzqcCflFqwa3e1F0T?si=3727553614b145fd), or here (https://www.fieldroutes.com/resources/podcast).  Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Many pest control companies rely on outdated digital marketing tactics — often handing the job to a family member who “knows Instagram.” But there’s a smarter way to market, one that drives real growth and measurable results. In this episode, Amanda talks with Kirby Oscar (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirby-oscar-45263583/), SVP and General Manager at Scorpion (https://www.scorpion.co/home-services/pest-control/). Kirby shares practical digital marketing strategies that help pest control businesses scale, attract more customers, and maximize ROI. From social ads and email campaigns to leveraging your customer data, this conversation is packed with tools to help you market like a pro. Join us as we discuss:  [5:18] Why trusting experts matters (and what not to do) [12:04] Social media marketing — posting versus paid strategy [18:55] Leads, lifetime value, and metrics that matter Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: FieldRoutes (https://www.fieldroutes.com/) Marketing Pro (https://www.servicetitan.com/features/pro/marketing) You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/field-famous/id1672665453), on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/0xgfGTzqcCflFqwa3e1F0T?si=3727553614b145fd), or here (https://www.fieldroutes.com/resources/podcast).  Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Running a family business isn’t always easy, but Tom Myers (https://www.allritepest.com/tom-myers), President, and Kristin Fore (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-fore-b5ba417/), CEO, of All-Rite Pest Control (https://www.allritepest.com/), have spent decades turning challenges into triumphs. The father-daughter duo shares how trust, innovation, and problem-solving have fueled All-Rite’s success for over 50 years in Lexington, KY. Tom discusses his passion for entomology and empowering his team, while Kristin highlights her journey into the family business and her focus on modernizing operations. From building a legacy to navigating family dynamics, this episode is packed with insights for pest control professionals looking to scale their small businesses. Join us as we discuss: [12:09] Navigating family dynamics and empowering your team [18:16] Key growth strategies that have helped All-Rite thrive [26:05] The importance of a healthy work-life balance as an owner [32:36] Advice for aspiring pest control business owners Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: FieldRoutes (https://www.fieldroutes.com/) You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/field-famous/id1672665453), on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/0xgfGTzqcCflFqwa3e1F0T?si=3727553614b145fd), or here (https://www.fieldroutes.com/resources/podcast).  Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Kendra Snyder (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendralsnyder/), co-owner of Quest Termite & Pest Control (https://questpest.com/) in Hellertown, PA, returns to the show to share insights on leadership and growth in the pest control industry. Kendra draws on her unique background in fitness and her years of business ownership to discuss the importance of proactive leadership, fostering a strong company culture, and balancing family dynamics in a professional setting. She also highlights how her approach to mentoring and role-playing helps empower employees to excel in their roles. Tune in for actionable advice from one of the industry’s most inspiring leaders on taking the initiative in team management. Join us as we discuss: [6:09] Starting a business with a spouse and setting clear boundaries [11:50] How a leader’s positive attitude influences company culture [20:21] Proactive leadership and finding your employees’ superpowers [28:47] Evolving your business model and the importance of transparency Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: FieldRoutes (https://www.fieldroutes.com/) Register now for Ignite 2025 in Anaheim, CA here (https://web.cvent.com/event/525700f3-6108-4a7f-b302-84430639712a/summary)!  You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/field-famous/id1672665453), on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/0xgfGTzqcCflFqwa3e1F0T?si=3727553614b145fd), or here (https://www.fieldroutes.com/resources/podcast).  Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have become a hot topic in the pest control industry. But how can owners navigate this complex process? Dan Gordon (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dangordoncpa/), Founder and Managing Director at PCO Bookkeepers (https://pcobookkeepers.com/) and co-host of the PMP Industry Insiders podcast, shares a practical guide for business owners looking to buy or sell a pest control company. Dan walks through the essential steps, from identifying potential buyers to conducting due diligence and negotiating a successful deal. He also highlights the emotional challenges that come with selling a business and offers insights into current M&A trends in the industry. Whether you're preparing for an exit or looking to expand, this episode is packed with valuable advice from one of the industry's top financial experts. Join us as we discuss: [8:06] What to look for when considering a pest control company purchase [20:24] Dealing with emotions during the M&A process [29:00] Common acquisition mistakes and gauging company culture Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: PMP Industry Insiders (https://www.pmpindustryinsider.com/) with Dan Gordon and Donnie Shelton You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/field-famous/id1672665453), on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/0xgfGTzqcCflFqwa3e1F0T?si=3727553614b145fd), or here (https://www.fieldroutes.com/resources/podcast).  Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Ellen Rohr (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-rohr-5052101/), Brand and Industry Marketing Lead at ServiceTitan (https://www.servicetitan.com/), shares her inspiring journey from financial struggles to business success. Ellen discusses the five key steps to becoming a first-class financial manager, offering actionable insights tailored for pest control professionals. She emphasizes the importance of confidence, stewardship, and financial literacy in building a thriving business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, this episode will leave you motivated to master your finances and grow your enterprise. Join us as we discuss: [5:04] The dangers of burnout and financial stress [13:14] Overcoming the reluctance to face money problems head-on  [23:46] The 5 steps to mastering financial literacy in your business Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: Where Did the Money Go? (https://ellenrohr.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/BBB_gd_WDTMG_110612.pdf) By Ellen Rohr How Much Should I Charge? (https://ellenrohr.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/BBB_gd_HMSIC_110322.pdf) By Ellen Rohr The Business of Contracting (https://www.shubee.com/product/frank-blaus-business-of-contracting-ebook/?srsltid=AfmBOoooydV71DZoDUZIlTL5tTh8TxKqS2TnxG5-CxS_OgTpf3F1WvoH) By Frank Blau The Great Game of Business (https://ggob.myshopify.com/) By Jack Stack Tricks of the Trade to Success: The Magic of Creating Your Ta-daaah! In Business and in Life (https://www.amazon.com/Tricks-Trade-Success-Creating-Ta-daaah/dp/0578314940/) By Paul Kelly Save $150 On Your “Early Bird” Ignite Admission (https://cvent.me/xA2482?RefId=Pest-in-Class) You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/field-famous/id1672665453), on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/0xgfGTzqcCflFqwa3e1F0T?si=3727553614b145fd), or here (https://www.fieldroutes.com/resources/podcast).  Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The 2024 State of the Pest Industry Report is here — and it’s packed with insights to help pest control business owners strategize for growth. Anders Fredericksen (https://www.linkedin.com/in/andersfsen/), Senior Product Marketing Manager at FieldRoutes (https://www.fieldroutes.com/), joins us to break down the key findings, from revenue growth strategies and marketing automation investments to technology adoption challenges. We dive into how companies are optimizing cash flow, balancing headcount with automation, and navigating barriers to software adoption. Plus, Anders highlights emerging trends like AI, property intelligence, and the growing demand for end-to-end management platforms. Discover how the pest control industry is planning for a more efficient, customer-focused, and tech-driven future. Join us as we discuss: [3:44] General highlights from the 2024 State of the Pest Industry Report   [9:49] Marketing automation, AI tools, and other tech trends [21:07] Top goals, priorities, and concerns heading into 2025 [29:56] The biggest surprise takeaways from the annual report Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: 2024 State of the Pest Industry Report (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vRnNdGUu4aWJFssXdyTTQJ0knlwzx_AG/view?usp=sharing) Thrive Analytics (https://thriveanalytics.com/) State of the Pest Control Industry Heading into 2025 Webinar with Anders Fredericksen and Eddie Wooten (https://www.fieldroutes.com/webinar/state-of-pest-report) Save $150 On Your “Early Bird” Ignite Admission (https://cvent.me/xA2482?RefId=Pest-in-Class) You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/field-famous/id1672665453), on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/0xgfGTzqcCflFqwa3e1F0T?si=3727553614b145fd), or here (https://www.fieldroutes.com/resources/podcast).  Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, we sit down with Zach Boardman (https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachariah-boardman-435b83123/), Director of Technical Operations at HomeShield Pest Control (https://www.homeshieldpestcontrol.com/) in Orange County, California. Zach talks about the art of active listening and why understanding the customer’s perspective is key to exceptional service. He also reveals how FieldRoutes reporting tools have become a game-changer in streamlining business operations and driving growth. Zach also takes us behind the scenes of HomeShield's innovative apprenticeship program, sharing how it’s shaping the next generation of pest control professionals.  Join us as we discuss:  [9:41] Why the customer’s experience is always right [11:39] HomeShield's apprenticeship program [17:26] The impact of FieldRoutes on customer relationships Save $150 On Your “Early Bird” Ignite Admission (https://cvent.me/xA2482?RefId=Pest-in-Class) You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/field-famous/id1672665453), on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/0xgfGTzqcCflFqwa3e1F0T?si=3727553614b145fd), or here (https://www.fieldroutes.com/resources/podcast).  Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this special holiday episode of Pest in Class, host Amanda Salvatore highlights extraordinary acts of compassion and community support within the pest management industry. Discover how Suzy Rayner of Valkyrie Pest Solutions (https://www.valkyriepest.ca/) transforms customer experiences with her trauma-informed care approach, reshaping treatment processes with empathy.  Hear about Eric and Kurt Scherzinger’s inspiring efforts at Scherzinger Pest Control (https://stopzbugs.com/) to foster employee well-being and adapt company culture during the challenges of COVID-19.  Finally, learn about the impactful work of Ryan and Noel Goins of Get Goins Pest Control (https://getgoinspestcontrol.com/) in providing crucial aid to families facing severe infestations. These powerful stories underline the profound role of empathy, community outreach, and creative solutions in elevating pest control beyond its traditional scope. Join us as we discuss:  [00:52] A trauma-informed approach to customer service [8:32] Shouting your employee appreciation from the rooftops [16:34] Helping struggling families with their pest control needs Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: The Keep It Goins Foundation (https://keepitgoins.org/) Save $150 On Your “Early Bird” Ignite Admission (https://cvent.me/xA2482?RefId=Pest-in-Class) You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Pest in Class on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/field-famous/id1672665453), on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/0xgfGTzqcCflFqwa3e1F0T?si=3727553614b145fd), or here (https://www.fieldroutes.com/resources/podcast).  Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Pest in Class in your favorite podcast player. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.