Training a bed bug detection dog isn’t just about teaching it to sniff out pests. It’s a massive commitment of time, money, and mindset. In this episode, we sit down with Diego Rodriguez (https://www.linkedin.com/in/diego-rodriguez-a-c-e-phe-9b7532181/), Tech Specialist and K-9 Team Supervisor at Preventive Pest Control (https://preventivepestvegas.com/) in Las Vegas, to explore what it really takes to build and maintain a top-tier canine detection team. From the biology of bed bugs to the psychology of a good handler, Diego pulls back the curtain on the reality of this niche pest control approach. He shares what makes a great canine-handler duo, how to know if a detection dog fits your business model, and why training the human is just as important as training the dog. Join us as we discuss:  [6:37] How to determine if a detection dog is right for your company  [13:30] What to look for in a pest detection dog and a handler [20:24] The biggest challenges and rewards of working with detection dogs 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 talk with Kevin McKee (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-mckee-5b8a3029b/), President and CEO ofRoss Pest & Lawn (https://341ross.com/) in Aledo, Texas, about how empathy, transparency, and strong communication have fueled both employee satisfaction and impressive business growth. Kevin shares how simple habits like answering the phone and showing up on time drive customer trust, but more importantly, how investing in employees as people builds long-term loyalty. From open-book financials and profit-sharing to teaching strategic thinking and soft skills, Kevin explains how he’s intentionally built a culture where employees feel true ownership in the business. Join us as we discuss:  [5:16] The simple habits behind Ross Pest & Lawn’s 30+% growth [14:44] Why sharing P&L with the entire team builds trust [20:51] How to talk to your team about soft skills without micromanaging 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.

Ignite 2025 isn’t your average FieldRoutes’ user conference, and that’s exactly the point. In this episode, Ray Honey (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ray-honey-61b30973/), Director of Customer Success at FieldRoutes (https://www.fieldroutes.com/), gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what attendees can expect in Anaheim this September. From hands-on product training to community panels, peer-led sessions, and networking events like the “Birds of a Feather” luncheon, Ignite is designed to help pest and lawn pros grow their businesses in real, actionable ways. Ray also shares what’s new this year, including updates on Pro products and more. If you’re heading to Ignite or still deciding, this episode will help you make the most of it. Join us as we discuss:  [5:27] What sets Ignite 2025 apart from other tech conferences [9:03] Special events like the Community Garden and Birds of a Feather luncheon [17:04] How first-time Ignite visitors can make the most out of their experience Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: Register (https://web.cvent.com/event/525700f3-6108-4a7f-b302-84430639712a/websitePage:5e9266dd-c3de-4596-ba83-10bd4bd7a732) for Ignite 2025 in Anaheim, CA (September 15 - 17th, 2025) 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.

Route optimization isn’t just about saving miles. It’s about empowering technicians and improving operational cohesion. Markus Konietzka (https://www.linkedin.com/in/markuskonietzka/), Director of Integrations at AXN Growth Partners (https://axngrowthpartners.com/), joins the show to share how his experience in logistics and as a technician shaped his people-first approach to route management. From reducing gas consumption by 20% to slashing technician windshield time, Markus explains how implementing rigid scheduling, auditing practices, and route data analysis paid off big for his team. Join us as we discuss:  [5:10] Why empathy for technicians is a routing manager’s greatest soft skill [8:17] How routing efficiencies helped slash overall fuel consumption by 20% [14:18] The benefits of quarterly vs. monthly service agreements Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: ACTION Termite & Pest Control (https://www.actiontermitecontrol.com/) Best Practices from Peers: Optimizing Your Business with FieldRoutes (https://www.fieldroutes.com/webinar/best-practices-from-peers) 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.

Mindset in pest control plays a crucial role in navigating the challenges of daily operations and long-term growth. In this special compilation episode of Pest in Class, we revisit three powerful conversations with industry leaders who’ve tackled discomfort, burnout, and bold career moves. Hear inspirational highlights from:  Kyle Selbach (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyleselbach/), Director of Operations at All U Need Pest Control Sam Taggart (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-taggart-27256962/), Founder and CEO of D2D Experts And Rachel Mendes (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-mendes-ace-i-18b2b91b9/?originalSubdomain=ca), Owner of Last Call Pest Control This is your mid-season reminder to keep pushing, keep growing, and keep your mindset sharp. Join us as we discuss:  [1:02] Why getting uncomfortable is key to success [4:36] How to help a struggling team member rediscover their “why” [7:06] The value of building a supportive entrepreneurial community 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 happens when tradespeople go beyond the job and become pillars of their communities? Jen Roberts (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-roberts-67ba0a16/), Senior Director of Integrated Marketing at ServiceTitan (https://www.servicetitan.com/), joins us to discuss Power the Nation, a movement dedicated to amplifying the incredible ways trades professionals give back. From friendly rivalries and food drives to local scholarships and surprise community makeovers, Jen shares how these unsung heroes power more than just homes and businesses. Join us as we discuss:  [5:08] The mission of sharing tradespeople’s community impact [8:38] How competitors unite to feed a community [12:18] Why celebrating philanthropy in the trades matters Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: Power the Nation (https://www.servicetitan.com/power-the-nation) 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.

When Jeff Simmons (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsimmonsrealtor/) first stepped into pest control, he was just a college student looking for a summer sales job. Now, as the Owner of Malang Pest Control (https://malangpestcontrol.com/), he has built a thriving business from scratch — even launching during the Great Recession in 2009. Jeff shares how he bootstrapped his business with no loans, leveraged door-to-door sales, and navigated industry shifts to create a sustainable and successful pest control company. He also reveals how COVID unexpectedly boosted his business and why embracing technology, like FieldRoutes software, is crucial for growth.  Tune in to learn Jeff’s grassroots strategies for scaling a pest control business the smart way. Join us as we discuss: [2:34] Building a business from scratch during tough times [9:13] How technology has helped Jeff scale his business [12:53] Training a thriving door-to-door sales team through partnerships Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: D2D Millionaire (https://www.d2dmillionaire.com/) The D2D Experts (https://thed2dexperts.com/) Eat What You Kill by Sam Taggart (https://thesamtaggart.com/eatwhatyoukill/) 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.

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.