They say, "Your network is your net worth," but can you really put a price on the connections you build in this industry? Especially when those connections bridge borders between the USA and Canada!

David's and Billy's story started nearly five years ago, with a simple LinkedIn connection request. Like so many in the business world, they became part of each other's networks, sharing insights and updates but without much direct interaction. Yet over time, as they observed each other's work, their shared passion for people, teams, customers, and elevating industry standards became more apparent. David, the President of Garden Grove Landscape and Snow Management in Toronto, and Billy, the VP of Client Relations and Sales at Outdoor Pride Landscape & Snow Management in New Hampshire, had much in common. What started as passive connections gradually revealed deeper shared values and goals.

Then, in 2023, a LinkedIn message from Billy sparked a conversation that neither of them could have anticipated. They went from casual LinkedIn connections to scheduling regular 30-minute Friday calls, diving into everything from sales best practices to family life. Their weekly calls were a no-limits space where both could freely share insights on industry challenges, emerging trends, and even the quirks of the unpredictable weather. They realized that they each brought a unique mix of strategy, experience, and a go-with-the-flow approach that complemented the other's style.

Dynamic and relatable

By December 2023, it was clear they had struck a chord. The conversations were dynamic, relatable, and the kind people would want to "listen in on" - the kind of friendly banter you'd expect to hear between close colleagues. So, they decided to launch a podcast: The Sales Talk Show. They hired a producer and planned the launch of their first episode for April 2024 - all without having met in person!

Finally, after countless texts, calls, emails and a podcast launch, they met face-to-face at the Snow & Ice Symposium in Pittsburgh in June. The connection they'd built online immediately felt like an old friendship, a testament to the strength of trust and shared purpose. Since that first meeting, they've each had the chance to visit each other's companies, and their connection has expanded beyond their friendship to their entire teams.

In September, Billy and his wife Diane hosted David and his brother Paul (VP and COO of Garden Grove) in Boston. Next summer, David and his wife Sabina look forward to hosting Billy and Diane in Toronto.

David and Billy's journey highlights the transformative potential of social media and the unique camaraderie within the snow and ice management industry. As entrepreneurs, they know the grit and dedication it takes to build a business, which makes the journey all the more meaningful when shared.

The snow and ice industry is a community of like-minded professionals ready to support and lift each other up, proving that sometimes all you need is a colleague from another market who truly gets it. Why go it alone when there are thousands in this industry facing the same challenges? David and Billy's friendship and podcast stand as reminders that, sometimes, a "phone a friend" is all it takes. 

About the Sales Talk Show

The Sales Talk Show is a platform dedicated to supporting both seasoned sales professionals and the next generation of up-and-coming talent in the service industry. We're here to bridge the gap between theory and practice, blending education with real-world experiences to bring you insights you won't find in any textbook.

Our mission is clear: we're here to uplift, educate, and inspire those pursuing careers in sales. Through real-talk, unscripted conversations, and practical guidance from industry experts, we aim to be a resource for growth and learning. This is not just a show - it's a community. To follow, listen or watch past Sales Talk Shows visit 2 @salestalkshow on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify or Apple.

David Lammers is President and CEO of Garden Grove Landscape and Snow Management in Toronto, Ontario. Contact him at david@gardengrove.ca. Bill Butts is VP of Client Relations and Sales for Outdoor Pride Landscape & Snow Management. Contact him at bill.butts@outdoorpride.com. Hear more from David and Billy on the December episode of SIMA's Snow Talk podcast. Listen at sima.org/podcast.