Eric highlights the parallels between the song ("The Mockingbird and the Crow" by Hardy) and the journey of contractors in business. He analyzes the song's structure and lyrics to illustrate the duality faced by contractors: being a skilled worker (the "mockingbird") versus becoming a successful business owner (the "crow"). Participants in the discussion reflect on this analogy, sharing personal experiences of transformation, overcoming challenges, and the importance of coaching and community in their own professional growth, referencing specific role-playing exercises. The episode highlights the value of adapting, learning, and embracing change to reach one's full potential in the contracting world. Key Takeaways: Understand the journey from being a mockingbird who imitates others to becoming a crow who embodies intelligent change. Recognize that continuous learning, coaching, and adaptation are essential for growth and breaking through plateaus. Find a supportive community or mentor to provide guidance and positive peer pressure on your path. Learn to listen deeply, address internal negativity, and overcome pride or resistance to training. Use what you learn to become the best version of yourself, integrating systems while developing your unique style. Resources: Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/ LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/ Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/ Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/ TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok
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1:00:11
EP281: 49 Interviews in One Day: Behind the Scenes of Our Hiring Event With Tyson Matayas and Slayer
Tyson Matyas and Ron "Slayer" Yelenich join Eric to discuss The Pond Digger's recent experience holding a large-scale job fair for their pond building business. They share insights and reflections on the hiring process, the types of candidates they encountered, and the challenges of finding qualified and suitable employees, particularly in the construction field. Topics include candidate preparedness, red flags during interviews, the differences between generations in the workforce, and the importance of character and cultural fit within their team. They also touch on the benefits of hosting a job fair and the community support they received. Key Takeaways: Prepare thoroughly for interviews by researching the company and having necessary documents ready. Understand that honesty and integrity are non-negotiable character traits that employers look for. Showcase your passion for the work and willingness to learn, as these can be more important than extensive prior experience. Recognize that fitting into the team's culture and communication style is an important factor in the hiring decision. For business growth, be prepared to invest time and resources in training new hires, even if it temporarily slows down progress. Resources: Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/ LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/ Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/ Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/ TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok
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1:33:50
EP280: The Evolution of the Helix 2.0 Pond Skimmer
Tyson Matyas interviews Eric Triplet, the inventor of the Helix Pond Skimmer, about the new Helix 2.0 model. Triplet explains the genesis of the original skimmer, driven by a need to address problems with existing products, and the challenges he faced as an "accidental manufacturer." They discuss the features and benefits of the new 2.0 model, which is smaller, easier to install, and more user-friendly, catering to both contractors and DIY pond enthusiasts. Triplet also touches on his hesitation to fully commit to manufacturing and the future potential for related products. Key Takeaways: Identify problems in your field and seek to solve them. Do not accept inadequate solutions from others; strive for something better. Be open to creative insights and ideas, even if they come from a dream. Collaborate with and learn from friends and colleagues with experience in related areas. Embrace difficult challenges as chances to become more creative and tenacious. Resources: Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/ LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/ Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/ Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/ TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok
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1:03:07
EP279: The Tremor & The Trash Can, The Tale of Two Trucks (StoryTime)
Eric discusses the difference between a high-status contractor and a low-status contractor, using a personal anecdote about encountering another contractor with a dilapidated vehicle at a client's affluent home. The Pond Digger emphasizes the importance of professional appearance, proper pricing, and customer communication as key factors in achieving success and moving beyond merely surviving in the contracting business. He encourages contractors to constantly strive for improvement and seize opportunities for help and guidance to avoid stagnation. Key Takeaways: Keep your vehicle and appearance clean and presentable to build trust with clients. Charge the right amount of money for your work to grow your business and avoid cutting corners. Communicate effectively and treat all clients with respect, regardless of their wealth. Constantly seek to improve yourself and your business by focusing, reading, and listening. Act like a high-status contractor by delivering on promises and avoiding desperation. Resources: Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/ LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/ Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/ Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/ TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok
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27:20
EP278: 60% Failure Rate & The Mendoza Line (Weekly Compass)
Eric explores the 60/40 principle in business, highlighting that a 60% failure rate in areas like sales calls or email open rates can still represent significant success when viewed through the lens of a low batting average in baseball or email marketing metrics. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of tracking numbers and constantly evaluating processes like pricing and sales training, with participants expressing a renewed commitment to consistent role-playing and sales practice for continued growth. Key Takeaways: Always take time to recognize your wins, including the micro wins, and don't take simple things for granted. Embrace the 60/40 principle, understanding that a failure rate, especially in sales or marketing, can sometimes indicate success or proper pricing. Commit to consistent and immersive sales training and role-playing to significantly improve your skills, rather than just doing occasional sessions. Track key numbers in your business, such as sales closing rates and email open rates, to understand performance and identify areas for improvement. Actively maintain contact with your past customers through methods like email and text campaigns to revive old leads and generate new business. Resources: Contractor Sales Secrets: ContractorSalesSecrets.com Fitz Fish Ponds: Koi Trips Book A Call With Triplett: Call with Triplett The Pond Digger: https://theponddigger.com/ LA Pet Fair: https://www.lapetfair.com/ Atlantic-Oase: https://www.atlantic-oase.com/ Helix Pond Filtration: http://helixpondfiltration.com/ TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Circle TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group): TWT Contractor Power Circle The Pond Digger Instagram: Instagram The Pond Digger Facebook: Facebook Train With Triplett TikTok: TikTok
If you love Waterfalls, Koi, Ponds, Goldfish, Turtles, Ducks, Rock, Fountains and quite frankly anything to do with water features, then you’re in the right spot! Be warned, you are in the SplashZone when listening to this podcast hosted by Eric Triplett, AKA The Pond Digger.
Eric a veteran water feature design, construction, and instructional specialist passionate about his craft. He will be sharing Pond Pro Tips from his personal experiences in the water feature business on the podcast. You will be exposed to both successes and failures in his business journey with a goal in mind to help people shorten their learning curve in this wonderful hobby and business.
Hang On for a Fun Ride……
UK