In this conversation, Basil Camu, an arborist and founder of Leaf and Limb, discusses his transformative journey in the arboriculture industry, emphasizing the importance of tree preservation over removal. He shares pivotal moments that led to a significant shift in his business model, the challenges faced during this transition, and the innovative services that emerged as a result. Basil advocates for collaboration within the industry, the need for education about tree care, and the importance of finding joy in meaningful work. He also provides valuable advice for business owners looking to pivot their practices towards sustainability and environmentalism.

Takeaways

• Basil Camu transformed his arboriculture business to focus on tree preservation.
• The decision to stop removing healthy trees was driven by ethical considerations.
• The shift resulted in a loss of $2 million in annual revenue but led to a stronger business model.
• Structural pruning became a key service that differentiates Leaf and Limb from competitors.
• Collaboration with other tree services increased referrals and business opportunities.
• Education is crucial for changing public perception about tree care.
• Basil emphasizes the importance of finding joy in meaningful work.
• The company became the first B Corp certified in the arboriculture industry.
• Basil encourages other businesses to focus on sustainability and environmentalism.
• A strong marketing strategy centered on education can build trust and community engagement.

Chapters

00:00

Transforming Arboriculture: A New Ethos

03:01

Pivotal Moments in Business Transformation

05:35

Navigating Challenges: Client Convincing and Business Ethics

08:31

Building a New Business Model: Focus on Preservation

11:04

Innovative Services: Structural Pruning and Beyond

14:04

Collaboration Over Competition: A New Industry Approach

16:44

The Future of Arboriculture: A Call for Change

19:32

Education as a Marketing Tool: Engaging the Community

22:23

Advice for Business Owners: Transitioning with Purpose

25:01

Finding Joy in Meaningful Work: A Personal Journey

The conversation explores the critical issue of drinkable water scarcity and the advancements in water treatment technology that can convert non-drinkable water sources into safe drinking water. Cydian Kauffman discusses the alarming statistics regarding the availability of drinkable water and highlights the innovative technologies that can help address this global challenge.

https://purewaternorthwest.com/

Cydian Kauffman

CEO, Pure Water Northwest

https://purewaternorthwest.com/

Cydian@purewaternorthwest.com

360-908-8947

206-281-4100

Takeaways

• Only about 0.03 percent of the water in the world is drinkable.
• Drinkable water is becoming increasingly scarce.
• Water treatment technology can make non-drinkable water safe to drink.
• We can convert swamp water into drinking water.
• We can also convert sewer water into drinking water.
• The technology for water treatment is advancing rapidly.
• There is still a significant amount of clean water available.
• Water treatment can help alleviate water scarcity issues.
• Innovative solutions are crucial for sustainable water management.
• The conversation highlights the importance of environmental sustainability.

#conservewater #irrigation #smartwater #tapwater #microplastics

This morning we had Kris Kiser on the SYNKD on air show and here's a summary of the topics we covered. Will you be there next week? SYNKD team will be there so please reach out to us if you see us!!

https://www.synkd.io/synkd-news/equip-expo-wins-will-you-be-there-next-week

Equip Exposition Named “Greatest Trade Show of 2024,” Celebrated for Industry Impact and Community Stewardship

Equip Exposition—the nation’s largest gathering for landscapers, contractors, dealers, and outdoor power equipment manufacturers—has been named “The Greatest Trade Show of 2024” by Trade Show Executive at the Gold 100 Awards and Summit. The event also received the “Against All Odds Award” and was ranked the third largest trade show in the United States.

Despite facing a major cyberattack on its registration vendor days before opening, the Equip and OPEI teams pivoted seamlessly to deliver a record-breaking, sold-out show with 28,500 attendees, demonstrating resilience and operational excellence.

A Hub for Networking, Education, and Innovation

Peer-to-peer networking continues to be at the heart of Equip, giving industry professionals vital access to suppliers, partners, and new opportunities. As one industry leader put it:

“You can’t not be known each year.”

The show features:

• Hands-on Outdoor Demo Yard with 30 acres of equipment trials
• Expanded UTV Test Track
• Robust education and training sessions
• High-energy industry events, including concerts and receptions

Outdoor Stewardship and Community Engagement

Beyond business, Equip champions outdoor stewardship and community impact, highlighted through its partnership with the TurfMutt Foundation.

Key initiatives include:

• Reaching 70 million children with outdoor education programs
• Using a dog superhero character to promote conservation and responsible land use
• Hosting dog adoption events at the expo, turning industry gatherings into opportunities for giving back
• Encouraging community involvement in outdoor activities and connecting stewardship with real-life action

As shared in the podcast:

“There’s a real dog behind that.”

This storytelling approach humanizes the mission and deepens engagement.

Education That Inspires the Next Generation

Equip and TurfMutt understand that shaping the future of the industry begins with education. Their programs teach kids to value green spaces, care for the environment, and even consider careers in the outdoors.

“We reach 70 million kids.”

This long-term educational vision aligns perfectly with Equip’s role as the industry’s innovation leader.

Why Equip Exposition Stands Apart

Equip isn’t just a trade show—it’s a movement.

Its success comes from combining:

✅ Unmatched networking

✅ Forward-thinking education

✅ Hands-on industry events

✅ Deep commitment to outdoor stewardship

✅ Heartwarming dog adoption initiatives through the TurfMutt Foundation

By blending business growth with community purpose, Equip has set a new standard—making it clear why it earned the title “The Greatest Show of 2024.”

Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond

The expo continues to expand programming and experiences, with new initiatives already in motion for 2025. As the industry evolves, Equip remains the place to connect, learn, innovate, and give back.

Equip Exposition isn’t just the biggest. It’s the most impactful.