Episodes
Court Parker is the second generation owner of Bug Busters, one of the southeast’s leading pest control companies. He has worked in the pest control industry for over 20 years and has helped to shape policy at the state and national level. In addition to serving on industry related boards, Court is regularly asked to share his expertise via podcasts, presentations, and classes. He currently lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his wife and three children.
Episode 1: Legacy in Motion: A Candid, Personal Conversation on Generational Transitions, Industry Leadership, and Innovation with Court Parker
In this episode of the Voice for... the Industry podcast, we’re diving into the real-life challenges and opportunities of generational transitions in family-run pest control businesses, along with the ins and outs of navigating acquisitions. We’re also discussing the power of relationships and networking in the industry, as well as how AI is shaping business today and into the future.
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Whether you’re in pest control, lawn care, or both, this episode delivers practical insights, forward-thinking strategies, and just the right dose of fun.
Taylor Olson is a dynamic entrepreneur with a track record of turning innovative ideas into thriving companies. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Applause, he's on a mission to revolutionize employee engagement through real-time incentives and recognition that drive performance, retention, and customer satisfaction. Before Applause, Taylor was the founder and CEO of Slingshot Technology, leading the company to national recognition. With a law degree from UCLA and a business degree from BYU, Taylor brings sharp insight and bold vision to the stage!
Episode 2: 2 PART SPECIAL: From Slingshot to Applause - An Honest Conversation with Industry Trailblazer Taylor Olson
In two-part series, we sit down with Taylor Olson, a true pioneer in the pest control and lawn care space. From his early days at Slingshot to his current leadership role at Applause, Taylor shares the inside story of building, scaling, and evolving industry-shaping solutions.
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If you’re looking for real talk, hard-earned wisdom, and a glimpse behind the curtain of some of the industry’s most impactful innovations, these episodes are for you.
Breanna Neerland is the Vice President of Kwik Kill Pest Control, a family-owned company established in 1979. Since switching career paths from microbiology to pest control in 2015, Breanna has worked her way from service technician to her current role. She not only oversees all day-to-day processes but also constantly strives for the highest possible efficiency both in the office and on the road. Breanna encourages continual education and learning not only within Kwik Kill but also within the pest management industry. She holds four state certifications, is a state of Wisconsin Master Tech, and gained her ACE in April 2021.
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When she isn’t working, Breanna enjoys traveling and adventuring with her husband, Zach, and their dogs, Bulleit and Kora. From snowboarding to SCUBA diving there is never a dull moment!
Episode 3: Family First, Customers Always: Honoring the Past while leaping into the Future with Breanna Neerland
In this episode of Voice for the Industry Podcast, we sit down with Breanna Neerland for a candid and inspiring conversation about what it means to honor a family legacy while embracing the future. Breanna shares her experience navigating the complexities of ownership transitions in a family-run business, offering practical advice on balancing long-standing traditions with forward-thinking innovation. We explore the importance of industry involvement, giving back to the community, and staying grounded in values while adapting to change. Breanna also weighs in on the evolving role of AI in pest control and how it could shape the industry moving forward. Plus, she opens up about maintaining work-life balance in a fast-paced world. It’s honest, insightful, and packed with value for anyone leading a family business or driving change in their organization.
Andrea Dahlgren is the Senior Vice President of Business Development at A.R.M. Solutions, where she has been a driving force since 2010. With over 15 years of industry experience, Andrea specializes in accounts receivable management for pest control, lawn care, landscaping, and commercial cleaning companies. She is renowned for implementing diplomatic, flat-fee collection strategies that enhance cash flow while preserving valuable customer relationships. Andrea has spoken nationally on best practices in collections and plays a key role in shaping A.R.M. Solutions’ programs for service providers across the country. A.R.M. Solutions is proud to be the only collection partner of the National Pest Management Association—a reflection of the trust Andrea and her team have built within the industry.
Episode 4: Show Me the Money! Making Collections a Priority with Andrea Dahlgren
In this episode of the Voice for the Industry Podcast, we sit down with Andrea Dahlgren, Senior Vice President of Business Development at ARM Solutions. Andrea shares her journey from the mortgage sector to becoming a pivotal force in ARM's innovative approach to debt collection. Join us as we explore how ARM Solutions is redefining the debt collection landscape for pest control, lawn care, and other service industries.
Ashely Morrison is the co-owner of City Wide Exterminating alongside her brother, Chris, and husband, Dylan. With over 15 years of experience in the pest control industry. Ashley has held a variety of roles and remains actively involved at both the state and national levels. She is a graduate of the NPMA Executive Leadership Program and a former board member. She currently serves on NPMA’s Business Innovations and P3 Steering Committee, as well as the Public Relations Committee for the North Carolina Pest Management Association.
Outside of work, Ashley stays busy with her 3 children, enjoys traveling with her family, and serves as her kids’ full-time taxi so they can continue living their best lives!
Audrey Hall began her pest control career working at her family business, Buffalo Exterminating. When her parents sold the company so they could flee the frozen tundra of upstate New York and move to Florida, as many do, Audrey, then a brunette, took over a small pest control company, EcoServe Pest Services. Audrey realized early on that the road to a successful community was hiring the right people, making sure customers come first, and being active in the community. Through Audrey's many social media posts, it's evident EcoServe plays a pivotal role in their local community by supporting education, various charities, and neighboring businesses. Audrey is very active in the industry and held many positions in the NPMA. Audrey loves spending time with her daughter, her beloved dogs, and she enjoys seeing her many friends throughout the country as she travels to support EcoServe and the Industry.
Episode 5: From BFFs to Industry Forces: Friendship, Pest Control, and the Power of Collaboration
In this episode of "Voice for the Industry," join hosts Raymond Kidwell, Audrey Hall, and Ashley Morrison as they delve into the transformative power of industry associations. Discover how active participation in these groups has not only shaped their careers but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration. Audrey and Ashley share personal stories of growth, the importance of networking, and the invaluable lessons learned from their involvement in industry events. Tune in to explore how these associations can be a catalyst for professional development and success.
David Billingsly is the president and founder of the Billingsly Group, a coaching and consulting firm for the service industry that was founded in 2022. With over 33 years of experience in the service industry, which includes 19 years in the pest industry, David is focused on coaching and consulting services for both small and large service-based businesses. His expertise is in working with senior leaders and leadership teams to assess and address their strategic business decision making and leadership challenges.
Episode 6: Built to Last: Evolving Pest Control with Smarter Training & Leadership with David Billingsly
Join us on the Voice for the Industry Podcast as we delve into the inspiring career journey of David Billingsly, founder of the Billingsly Group. With over 33 years of experience in the service industry, including 19 years in pest control, David shares his transition from retail management to becoming a leader in coaching and consulting. Discover how his firm, established in 2022, empowers service-based businesses by focusing on strategic decision-making and leadership challenges. Tune in to learn from David's unique insights and his passion for developing mid-level management training programs that address industry bottlenecks. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with valuable lessons and a touch of humor.
Thomas Welsh is the Founder and President of Affiliated Technology Solutions, the parent company of Voice for Pest, Voice for Turf, and Voice for Pros. With both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers University, Tom launched his entrepreneurial journey in the 1990s with a simple computer repair business. Over the decades, he has transformed Affiliated Technology into an industry leading Managed Service Provider, delivering comprehensive voice and data solutions to small and mid-sized businesses across the nation. For the past decade, Tom has focused his efforts on innovating within the Home Services industry. Leveraging long-standing industry relationships, a dedicated team, and a highly skilled development group, he continues to drive the creation of cutting-edge, purpose-built technology solutions that empower service professionals and streamline business operations.
Episode 7: The Vision Behind the Voice: Building VFP and Embracing What's Next with Thomas Welsh
Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Voice for Pest, a leader in integrating AI and technology within the home services sector. This episode reveals how Thomas Welsh developed ATS to evolve, leveraging cutting-edge innovations to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction. Discover the strategies and technologies that have propelled Affiliated to the forefront of the industry, and learn how they continue to shape the future of home services. Don't miss this insightful look into the evolution of a tech-driven pioneer.
Evan Unick is the Founder & Principal Consultant at Octane Insights, where he helps high-growth home-service brands turn operational chaos into repeatable, customer-centric profit.
As the former VP of Customer Solutions at Aptive Environmental, Evan led a full contact-center transformation that boosted NPS by 67 points and added nearly $20 M in annual recurring revenue. Today, he blends deep CX expertise with data-driven operational fluency frameworks, showing teams how to spot their single biggest constraint, and fix it fast.
Episode 8: The Prism Perspective: Clearer Thinking for Better Results with Evan Unick
In this episode, we delve into the critical role of root cause analysis in driving business success. Discover how identifying and addressing the underlying causes of issues can lead to more effective problem-solving, improved processes, and sustainable growth. Join us as we explore real-world examples and expert insights on implementing root cause analysis to enhance decision-making and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
Brian is the part-owner of Pest SOS (a contact center, consulting and training company for PCOs), and founder and CEO of Context Overlay (a click-by-click training tool). With a background in construction and project management, work experience running multi-million dollar projects in multiple fields, and 8 years in the pest control industry, Brian has seen how leveraging technology can increase scalability, by creating efficiencies and lowering overhead. He is in the process of completing his Ai certification through Kane Mincus and has been working diligently to create solutions to revolutionize how employees are trained.
Episode 9: Brian Starnes on Building Pest SOS and the Shift Toward Smarter Solutions
In this episode, we delve into the fascinating transformation of pest control call centers. Discover how technology and customer expectations have reshaped the industry, turning traditional call centers into dynamic customer service hubs. Join us as we explore the challenges and innovations that have driven this evolution, and hear from industry experts about the future of pest control customer service. Tune in to learn how these changes impact both businesses and customers alike.
Brian is the part-owner of Pest SOS (a contact center, consulting and training company for PCOs), and founder and CEO of Context Overlay (a click-by-click training tool). With a background in construction and project management, work experience running multi-million dollar projects in multiple fields, and 8 years in the pest control industry, Brian has seen how leveraging technology can increase scalability, by creating efficiencies and lowering overhead. He is in the process of completing his Ai certification through Kane Mincus and has been working diligently to create solutions to revolutionize how employees are trained.
Episode 10: Bug Data & Brain Power: The AI Evolution with X-Rai Labs
In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of AI in the business world. Discover how AI technologies are reshaping accountability practices and driving customer retention strategies. From predictive analytics to personalized customer experiences, learn how businesses are leveraging AI to build trust and foster long-term relationships with their clients. Tune in to explore real-world examples and insights from industry leaders on the future of AI-driven accountability and retention.
SVP of Industry Solutions. Jon has been with Xima Software for the past 14 years and has spent his 20+ year career in the telecom/contact center space. Jon has the unique role working with customers and product teams to determine what solutions will impact the industry and business alike. He is excited to see how AI is impacting customer experience and helping companies expand their reach. Jon received his Undergraduate Degree from the University of Utah in 2008 and then went on and receive his Masters of Business Administration (MBA) in 2014.
Natasha Sohn is a Partner Relationship Manager with five years of experience in the telecom and contact center space. She works closely with partners and customers to drive cloud communication strategies that improve operations and customer experience. She’s especially interested in how AI can streamline business processes and free teams up to focus on high-value, human-centered work. Natasha earned her bachelor’s degree from the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University in 2018. Originally from Seattle, Washington, she has supported organizations across the globe in future-proofing their communications.
Episode 11: Contact Center Innovation: Omnichannel and Integrations with Xima
In this episode, we explore how small businesses can leverage multi-channel communication to enhance customer engagement and drive growth. Discover the advantages of reaching your audience through various platforms, from social media to email marketing, and learn practical tips for implementing a cohesive strategy. Tune in to uncover how multi-channel communication can transform your business operations and customer relationships.
Kevin’s 30 year journey through Pest Management has provided him the opportunity to participate in small family businesses as well as the corporate global world. He started as a pest control technician in 1993 and had the opportunity to work his way through different roles over the years. Exiting as a partner at EnviroPest in 2020 and then making the transition to coach, trainer and consultant.
Over the years, Kevin has been invited to teach on developing leaders and building company culture both nationally and internationally. Speaking at NPMA and State events as well as being invited to speak to over 400 business leaders in Rome, Italy. Today Kevin works through his Action Leadership business to help Leaders and Teams to grow together and build success.
Kevin has been married to Kimberly for over 30 years. They love to travel and find adventures to experience all over the world. In 2022, they moved to Florida to be closer to their daughter, Chesnii. A year later, their son Eric followed. This May, they became grandparents to a beautiful little girl named Zoa.
Episode 12: Beyond Bugs: Relationships, Training, and Giving Back with Kevin Lemasters
In this episode of the Voice for the Industry podcast, host Raymond Kidwell sits down with Kevin Lemasters, a seasoned expert in pest management. Kevin shares his journey from a pest control technician to a leader in the industry, discussing the importance of leadership, company culture, and the power of community connections. Tune in to hear about Kevin's experiences, insights on developing future leaders, and his passion for giving back to the industry that has shaped his career. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with wisdom and practical advice for anyone in the pest management field.
Leah Hazelwood is the CEO of Go Forth Marketing and VP at
Go-Forth Home Services in High Point, NC. After working in the advertising industry, Leah joined her husband Chase's third-generation pest control company in 2009. For the next 13 years, she worked in various roles at the rapidly growing business, including marketing, customer service, sales, accounting and administration. During this time, the company built a robust internal marketing team, including videographers, writers, social media managers, and digital marketers. In 2022, she spun off the pest control company's internal marketing department into its own business, continuing to serve as the entire marketing arm for Go-Forth Home Services but now also offering services to other clients. Still highly involved and working right down the hall from her husband, Leah's role at Go-Forth Home Services is focused on internal and external marketing and community endeavors. Leah and Chase have four school-aged children and multiple other sister businesses.
Episode 13: Blending Family for Lasting Success
In this episode of the Voice for the Industry podcast, Leah Hazelwood explores the evolving role of women in the pest control industry and the unique opportunities it presents. Join us for an insightful conversation on balancing family life with business responsibilities and the values that drive success.
Phil started his career as a numbers guy at a fast-growing pest control company. He discovered they were turning down almost half of the potential customers because they were out of the area and needed services they couldn’t provide. He found a solution: Baton, the industry's fastest-growing Referral Network, which makes it easy and profitable to refer non-qualified callers to other companies and get paid for it.
Outside of work, Phil’s all about adventure. Riding scooters through the city or hiking up mountains. He’s also a semi-pro drummer who blends creative rhythm with out-of-the-box thinking. He loves learning from different cultures and, yes, even finds joy in spreadsheets, a sign of his mix of creativity and logic.
Episode 14: Passing the Baton: How Referrals Power Pest Control Growth
In this episode, we delve into the art of building a robust referral network within the pest control industry. Discover strategies to connect with local businesses, leverage customer relationships, and create partnerships that drive growth. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, learn how to expand your reach and enhance your business through effective networking. Tune in to unlock the secrets of successful referrals and take your pest control business to the next level.
Grant Sinnott is a quantitative analyst and data scientist with deep expertise in financial modeling and machine learning. For more than six years, he led quantitative analytics at Bank of America, where he managed multi-billion-dollar portfolio models, defended high-risk statistical models before regulators, and oversaw data science and machine learning initiatives in the wholesale credit lending space. His work included guiding the bank’s transition off LIBOR, contributing to the AI Chatbot Erica, and supporting the Paycheck Protection Program during COVID. Prior to Bank of America, Grant worked in General Electric’s corporate finance program and published economics research at the University of Florida.
Kemp Anderson is the driving force behind Kemp Anderson Consulting, where he provides expert guidance to business owners, executive leaders, and private equity firms on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), divestitures, post-integration strategy, due diligence, and negotiation. With decades of experience in the residential and commercial services sectors, Kemp leverages financial expertise, leadership skills, and firsthand ownership experience to help companies drive growth, maximize profitability, and successfully navigate the complexities of business strategy and transactions. His practical, results-driven approach stems from having owned and operated businesses himself, giving him a unique perspective on both day-to-day operations and long-term strategic vision.
Episode 15: Valuation Matters: Keys to building a more valuable Pest Control Company
In this episode, we speak with our special guests, Grant and Kemp, who dive into the intricacies of the pest control industry's business side. Exploring the importance of company culture, employee retention, and strategic growth. They discuss the value of maintaining clean financial records and the impact of regular price increases on business valuation. With insights into private equity and the significance of recurring revenue, this episode is a must-listen for all business owners. Tune in for great advice and expert perspectives on navigating the complexities.
Susan Hare is a Program Director for Thrasher Termite & Pest Control in San Diego California.
She has a history of working in consumer services industries and is a 14-year veteran in pest management, earning her California license in 2018. Susan is skilled in Employee Engagement, Training, Corporate Communications, Management, and Marketing, and gopher trapping!
Susan is a member of the NPMA Workforce Development committee and as past-chair, serves on Executive Committee for the Foundation for Professional Pest Management (QualityPro/NPMA Pro). She's been a frequent speaker at PestWorld, has contributed to PCT magazine, and was a termite wrangler for the PBS Deep Look episode "Flying Termites Take a Dangerous Journey to a New Life." In 2025, Susan was named an NPMA Impact Award recipient.
Episode 16: Termites, Teamwork, and Tenacity: A Conversation with Susan Hare
Join Karissa Wilson as she steps into the host's seat for a special episode of the Voice for the Industry Podcast, featuring Susan Hare, a seasoned Program Director at Thrasher Termite and Pest Control. Dive into Susan's journey from a high-tech background to becoming a passionate advocate for pest management. Discover her insights on educational marketing, the importance of communication, and how to attract more women into the industry. Plus, enjoy some fun as Susan shares her love for termites and her dream superpower.
With over 42 years of global experience in Pest Control and Food Safety, I’ve dedicated my life to protecting people, brands, and supply chains across 17 countries and counting. My journey has taken me deep into the heart of the food and pharmaceutical industries—from manufacturing floors to executive boardrooms—where I’ve conducted more than 3,200 audits and trained over 8,000 professionals on everything from HACCP fundamentals to advanced Food Defense strategies.
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I’m a Level 2 Food Defense Coordinator, a PCQI (Preventive Controls Qualified Individual), and a Lead HACCP Auditor. I’ve written and presented 12 international conference papers and authored 16 articles for six national publications—each one rooted in real-world experience and a passion for raising industry standards.
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Previously, I owned and operated a training and audit firm in Southern Africa before founding Sequoia Quality Solutions here in Colorado, where I continue to consult, train, and advocate for excellence in pest management and food safety compliance.
Outside of work, I’m a fly-fishing fanatic, married to my soul mate of 33 years, and the proud father of an incredible daughter who’s also my best buddy. I share my home with a very opinionated cat and a closet full of unapologetically colorful shirts—because life’s too short for beige.
Episode 17: Sustaining Quality: How Food Safety and Pest Management compliment each other
In this episode, host Raymond Kidwell sits down with Dominique Sauvage, a seasoned expert in pest control and food safety. With over 42 years of global experience, Dominique shares his journey from South Africa to the U.S., highlighting his passion for protecting people, brands, and supply chains. Discover insights into the intersection of pest control and food safety, the role of AI in the industry, and Dominique's commitment to training the next generation of professionals. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, humor, and a deep love for the industry.
Meet Aleena Valentine! With over 11 years in the pest control industry, Aleena's journey began as a Collections CSR in Florida and quickly grew into a leadership role as Call Center and Administrative Manager. After a brief pause to explore real estate and spend time with her two boys, Aleena found her way back to her passion for operations and joined VFP as a Support Administrator. Her sharp focus on reporting and process improvement led to a promotion in January to Customer Service Manager. When she's not leading teams or optimizing systems, Aleena is all about family time with her husband Dre and their sons, Cohen and Tate — proudly repping the Jacksonville Jaguars every chance they get!
Meet Kayla Carroll! With 14 years in the pest control industry, Kayla was one of the first CSRs at a Florida-based company, rising through the ranks to become Administrative Director. During COVID, she made the leap to a remote role with VFP, where she quickly made her mark in reporting, processes, and customer success. Her impact was immediate — earning a promotion to Customer Service Manager, and most recently, launching and leading the brand-new Customer Success Division. Outside of work, Kayla loves spending time with her husband Bryan, daughter Lucy and their dog Wicket, especially when it involves Disney or their next camping trip!
Episode 18: Valuation Matters: Keys to building a more valuable Pest Control Company
In this episode, Aleena Valentine and Kayla Carroll share their extensive experiences in the pest control industry. Aleena discusses her journey from a CSR to a customer service manager, while Kayla talks about her transition from customer service to launching a customer success division. They explore the impact of AI on customer service and the benefits of using a dialer system, all while sharing personal stories that bring humor and authenticity to the conversation.
​​I was born and raised in the Philippines and permanently moved to the U.S. by the age of 14. By the age of 18, I became an LPN and worked as a private nurse for 5 years as well as owned a staffing agency. Also served in the Marine Corps for 8 years and also had various jobs in between my time in service working in sales, insurance, edible arrangements, and fast food. Just like many others, I stumbled across pest control by chance and worked as a commercial tech with some residential in Viking pest control NJ North for 5 years before getting promoted to service manager and moving to our PA Northeast branch. This has been the one industry that I've truly enjoyed what I do and can definitely see myself doing for a very long time.
Episode 19: Finding Purpose in Pest Control: Building a Workplace that Attracts Today’s Top Talent
In this episode of The Voice for the Industry podcast, host Raymond Kidwell sits down with Gerwin Marca, a service manager whose unconventional career path brings a fresh perspective to the pest control industry. Gerwin shares his journey from nursing to the Marine Corps—and several stops in between—before finding his place in pest control, highlighting how each experience shaped his leadership style.
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The conversation dives into the importance of continuous learning, developing future leaders, and attracting the next generation of talent to the industry. Gerwin also shares his thoughts on how emerging technologies like AI and drones are influencing the future of pest control and what that means for today’s professionals. He reflects on his experience at the MPMA Academy, offers practical insights for those preparing for management roles, and wraps things up with a few fun, lighthearted questions that reveal the person behind the professional.
David Petti launched Turf Pride in 2002 with a simple goal: to bring exceptional customer service to the lawn care industry. Starting out as a solo operator, David grew the company from the ground up through relentless hard work and a commitment to quality. Today, Turf Pride is a multi-million dollar business with a team of 16—and growing.
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Under David’s leadership, Turf Pride has been featured in Lawn & Landscape magazine and recognized with the prestigious Fast Track 50 award in Lake and Geauga Counties. The company remains proudly family-owned and operated, with David working alongside his wife, son, daughter-in-law, and extended team every day.
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Turf Pride has earned over 500 Google reviews while maintaining a 5-star rating, a testament to its dedication to customer satisfaction. David is also an alumnus of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program
Episode 20: Finding Purpose in Pest Control: Building a Workplace that Attracts Today’s Top Talent
In this episode, David Petti, founder of Turf Pride Lawn Care, shares his journey from a solo operator to leading a successful family-owned business. He discusses the importance of exceptional customer service, core values, and the challenges of hiring and training employees. David emphasizes the significance of maintaining a personal touch in customer interactions, especially in an industry where customer satisfaction is paramount. He also reflects on the changes in the lawn care industry over the years and the role of technology, including AI, in enhancing business operations while preserving the human element.
​​Margaret Garcia is the Founder of GRIT PPO, the first female-owned outsourced contact center built for the pest control, wildlife, and tree-and-lawn industries. After spending years learning the industry at a Top 40 pest control company in the Northeast, she launched GRIT PPO in 2017 to help teams overwhelmed by call volume and missed opportunities.
Today, GRIT PPO supports companies nationwide with live call handling for overflow and after-hours coverage, along with an
AI–Human Hybrid support service across phone, live chat, and email.
Margaret is also known for her live, high-impact training workshops that help customer service teams, inside sales reps, and new hires master her approach to customer experience and consultative sales.
Her career has been focused on empowering the people behind the phones and proving that exceptional customer service is a true competitive advantage.
Episode 21: Building Businesses with Grit: How Pest Control Companies Can Win with Smarter Support
In this episode, Raymond Kidwell interviews Margaret Garcia, founder of Grit PPO, the first female-owned outsourced contact center for the pest control industry. They discuss Margaret's journey in the pest control industry, the challenges faced by companies, and how Grit PPO provides solutions through outsourcing and AI. The conversation also touches on the importance of adaptability in business, especially for women in male-dominated industries, and the future of AI in customer service.
Antoni Hoshino is the founder of Pest AI, a platform that’s quickly becoming the command center for modern pest control companies. Before launching Pest AI, Antoni spent years in the trenches helping pest control businesses scale — taking small operations into multimillion-dollar brands and consulting for companies nationwide, where he drove millions in new recurring revenue. Those hands-on experiences gave him a front-row seat to the bottlenecks and broken systems owners deal with every day, and ultimately inspired him to build smarter tools that make growth simpler. Today, Pest AI powers hundreds of pest control companies and continues to evolve at the pace of the industry.
Episode 22: Smarter System, Better Sales: How Pest AI Is Changing the Game
In this episode, Raymond Kidwell interviews Anthoni Hoshino, founder of Pest AI, a platform revolutionizing the pest control industry through advanced CRM solutions and AI integration. They discuss Anthony's journey from pest control consultant to tech entrepreneur, the evolution of CRM usage in pest control, and the importance of AI in enhancing customer service and operational efficiency. The conversation also touches on consumer expectations, the future of AI in the industry, and how technology is leveling the playing field for smaller companies.
Brian Quispe is the Co-Founder of OcuTrap, where he has led the company from concept to a recognized player in the pest and wildlife control industry. With expertise in business operations, finance, and go-to-market strategy, Brian has driven sales, secured strategic partnerships, and built momentum through national trade show outreach. He is focused on shaping the future of pest and wildlife control by introducing smarter, more efficient, and humane solutions that redefine how the industry operates.
Episode 23: Reimagining Traps: The Technology Driving the Next Era of Wildlife Management
In this episode of the Voice for the Industry Podcast, Brian Quispe, co-founder of OcuTrap, discusses the innovative technology behind their smart trapping systems. The conversation covers the journey from concept to creation, the challenges faced, and the solutions to make pest control more humane and efficient. Brian shares insights into the company's future developments, including AI integration and software enhancements, aiming to revolutionize the pest control industry.
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Foster Brusca has been a leader in the pest control industry since 1993 and is the co-owner of The Pest Posse in San Jose, California. Starting as a commercial service technician, he built a successful career in commercial sales, consistently breaking records and becoming the first at a major family-operated company to exceed $500,000 in annual commercial sales, later surpassing $1 million in a single year. Today, Foster is a sought-after industry speaker, a monthly columnist for Pest Management Professional magazine, and the "Head Wrangler" at The Pest Posse, where he helps deliver practical training and resources to elevate pest management professionals across the industry.
Episode 24: The Winning Blueprint: Sales & Training Strategies from a Pest Control Expert
Most pest control professionals underestimate how quickly AI is transforming industry training—and ignoring it could mean falling behind. In this episode, Foster Bruska, industry veteran, full-time content creator, and founder of Pest Posse, breaks down how AI is moving beyond buzzwords to become a real competitive advantage in pest management. Drawing from his multimillion-dollar sales career and hands-on training experience, Foster shares practical ways AI is reshaping technician development, customer communication, and operational growth—from continuous education and AI-powered scripting to automated training tracking and smarter strategies. While highlighting how platforms like Voice for Pest are already integrating AI, he reinforces a crucial truth: technology works best when paired with strong mentorship and human connection. This conversation is a must-listen for owners, managers, and technicians looking to future-proof their careers and lead the next wave of industry innovation.
Bhavini Kamdar is the Founder & CEO of Infinity Business Services, a global remote-team and operations partner serving fast-growing pest control companies across the U.S. With more than 16 years of experience building and managing offshore teams, she helps businesses streamline administration, accounting, customer service, marketing, and back-office operations. Her teams are trained on leading pest control software, including PestPac, FieldRoutes, and Briostack, allowing clients to quickly scale with experienced operational support. Known for helping companies improve efficiency, strengthen processes, and grow sustainably, Bhavini works closely with pest control leaders, consultants, and industry partners to help businesses focus on growth while their operations run seamlessly behind the scenes.
Episode 25: The Painless Way to Implement AI and Remote Teams in Pest Control
Unlock the blueprint for scalable, sustainable growth in the pest control industry with Bhavini Kamdar, founder and CEO of Infinity Business Services. In this episode, Bhavini breaks down how rock-solid processes, clean data, and strategically deployed remote teams turn chaotic growth into smooth, profitable operations—without burning out your in-house staff. She shares real-world examples of what top-performing companies do differently, from proactive AR and automated collections to clear role ownership, software optimization, and smart use of AI that enhances (not replaces) people. Whether you’re an owner, manager, or scaling leader, you’ll walk away with practical frameworks to align your people, processes, and technology so your business runs efficiently, cash flow stays healthy, and growth feels intentional—not reactive.
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Chris Anderson is the VP of Sales and Co-founder of Applause, where he leads revenue growth and strategic partnerships. With a data-driven approach and a passion for customer success, Chris specializes in scaling sales teams, optimizing go-to-market strategies, and helping businesses maximize engagement and retention. His leadership has been instrumental in driving Applause’s expansion across the home services industry.
Episode 26: Beyond Stars and Scores: Rethinking Reputation in Home Services
Chris Anderson, VP of Sales and Co-founder of Applause, shares his expertise on scaling sales teams and driving growth in the home services industry. Drawing on his data-driven approach, Chris breaks down the newly released 2026 Benchmark Report and what the findings mean specifically for pest control operators. From why technicians are the real marketing team to how customer satisfaction motivates beyond money, he reveals the strategies and incentives that actually work in home services. Chris also explores the evolving standards of reputation management—explaining why a 4.5-star rating is no longer good enough—and shares real-world examples of businesses applying these insights to maximize engagement, retention, and long-term success. Whether you’re a pest control operator, team leader, or industry professional, this episode provides actionable, research-backed insights to elevate every aspect of your business.
Jeff Davis is the Chief Executive Officer of Coalmarch, where he leads the company's mission to help home service businesses grow through innovative marketing and technology solutions. With more than 25 years of experience in revenue growth, operations, and executive leadership, Jeff has held key roles at WorkWave, Kwantek, and TEAM Software, driving success across the pest control, lawn care, security, and cleaning industries. Drawing on expertise in SaaS, digital marketing, and operational strategy, Jeff is focused on expanding Coalmarch's impact by enhancing customer acquisition, advancing technology, and delivering measurable results for clients. He holds a bachelor's degree in Marketing from the University of Louisville and a master's degree in Business and Information Systems from Tennessee Technological University.
Episode 27: Evolving Leadership: Strategies for High-Performing Teams in Home Services
Industry expert Jeff Davis, CEO of Coalmarch, takes us behind the scenes of leading a marketing and technology powerhouse in the home services industry. From his early career in SaaS and operations to guiding Coalmarch’s evolution, Jeff shares the lessons that shaped his leadership and the strategies that drive high-performing teams. Jeff dives into what modern leadership really looks like in growth-oriented companies and explains how turning customer insights into actionable strategies can create lasting loyalty and measurable revenue increase. He also shares practical approaches for using real marketing metrics—beyond vanity numbers—to guide investment and strategy. Finally, Jeff offers his perspective on the AI era in home services, discussing automation, digital innovation, and the trends that will define the next decade. Whether you’re a service business leader, marketer, or operator, this episode provides actionable insights to navigate change, leverage technology, and lead with impact.
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Alex Hernandez, is a handler and trainer at Diamond Dogs IPM , with over 15 years of experience in canine scent detection, handling teams with 95%+ accuracy certified with NESDCA. Alex excels with difficult cases pinpointing the root of infestations using science-based methods and single-purpose scent detection dogs, expertly trained to find even the smallest infestations in diverse environments, from cluttered homes to commercial spaces.
Episode 28: Four Legs, Zero Guesswork: The Future of Pest Inspections
Specially trained detection dogs can locate pests and rodents with over 95% accuracy—far beyond what human inspectors can achieve. In this fascinating episode, Alex Hernandez, a canine scent detection expert with 15 years of experience, reveals the science behind these elite teams and why single-purpose, rigorously trained dogs consistently outperform generalist pups. From third-party certifications to daily scent imprinting, Alex breaks down the disciplined training protocols that ensure precision in complex environments like hotels, supermarkets, and homes. Through real-world stories—including his first bed bug case in a Connecticut Macy’s—Alex explains the subtle behavioral cues that signal a true alert and why the human-canine partnership is critical to success. Whether you’re a pest control professional, property manager, or homeowner, this episode uncovers a proactive, science-driven approach that prevents costly infestations and transforms the way we think about pest detection.
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As President of the Florida Pest Management Association (FPMA), I am committed to growing membership, strengthening education, advocating for the industry, and delivering meaningful value to pest management professionals across Florida. I have been actively involved with FPMA for the past seven years, serving on the Membership Committee and Executive Committee before being elected President. Professionally, I serve as President of Hoffer/Samco Pest Solutions and bring more than 20 years of pest management experience. After beginning my career with Steritech in 2003, I founded Samco in 2016, growing it into a million-dollar business before its merger with Hoffer in 2022. My focus has always been on scalable growth, operational excellence, and exceptional customer service.
Episode 29: Leadership Through Change: Scaling Pest Control the Right Way
Many pest control companies want rapid growth, but few understand the leadership, culture, and long-term strategy required to sustain it. In this episode, Paul DiLorenzo shares the leadership principles and business strategies that have helped him grow within the pest management industry for more than 20 years. From scaling operations and maintaining strong company culture to successfully bringing teams together under one brand, Paul breaks down the non-negotiables every pest control company should focus on to create lasting success. Drawing from his experience as both an industry leader and President of the Florida Pest Management Association, Paul shares how the FPMA is helping shape the future of pest control through advocacy, education, and industry support. He explains how the association connects professionals, regulators, and partners to strengthen the industry’s voice and keep companies ahead of evolving regulations and customer expectations. Paul also highlights the growing importance of association involvement, the challenges pest control businesses will face in the coming years, and how strong leadership and adaptability—supported by organizations like the FPMA—will be key to long-term success.
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Jim is the Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for the National Pest Management Association and Executive Director for the Professional Pest Management Alliance whose mission is to promote, protect and defend the professional pest control industry. Jim has been with NPMA since 2010, prior to that he spent nearly a dozen years as Technical Director with a large regional pest control firm serving the Mid-Atlantic states. Jim received his BS in Biology Education from Millersville University of Pennsylvania in 1995 and his MS in Entomology from The University of Delaware in 2001. In 2012, Jim received his PhD in Entomology and Wildlife Ecology from the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware. His PhD research involved subterranean termite foraging behavior with respect to in-ground termite bait stations under field conditions. In 2023, Jim was honored as PCT Crown Leadership recipient. Prior to his role with the NPMA, Jim spent 11.5 years working with Home Paramount Pest Control (Forest Hill, MD) as Technical Director where he was responsible for product selection, treatment protocol development, service quality assurance technical training.
Episode 30: From Awareness to Action: How the Alliance Is Building Consumer Confidence
Most people don’t realize how much consumer perception shapes the pest control industry—and how organizations like The National Pest Management Association, the Alliance are working behind the scenes to change it. In this episode, Jim breaks down what the Alliance is, how it educates consumers on the value of hiring professionals, and what’s coming in 2026. He also shares how the Alliance is leveraging technology, AI, and modern marketing strategies to expand its impact, while clarifying how it’s funded and its relationship to the National Pest Management Association. Finally, Jim explains how pest control companies can get involved and access resources designed to support growth and industry collaboration. This episode is a practical look at how industry-wide collaboration is shaping the future of pest control.