The Green Edge with CJ

Balancing Business & Work: The Journey of Colten Delehanty

In this episode of The Green Edge with C.J., we sit down with Colten Delehanty, owner of Cole’s Lawn & Landscaping LLC in Germantown, Ohio. Colten shares his journey from mowing lawns in high school to launching his own business and growing it while balancing a full-time job as a machinist. He discusses the challenges of scaling, managing employees, and deciding when to take the leap into full-time entrepreneurship.
C.J. and Colten dive into the importance of route density, customer relationships, and expanding services beyond mowing to landscaping, hardscaping, and excavation. They also talk about equipment choices, business lessons, and strategies for sustainable growth.
If you're looking to start or scale your own lawn care business, this episode is full of real-world insights and practical advice to help you succeed.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Start small but think big – Growth should be steady, not rushed. Overextending can lead to inefficiencies.✅ Route density matters – Grouping jobs close together increases efficiency and profitability.✅ Diversifying services can increase revenue – Mowing is great, but adding landscaping, hardscaping, or excavation can set you apart.✅ Balancing a job and a business is tough – Strategic time management is key when working full-time while growing a company.✅ Investing in quality equipment is essential – The right tools make a big difference in efficiency.✅ Customer trust is everything – Being a reliable, full-service provider helps retain long-term clients.
Notable Quotes:
💬 “If you're thinking about starting a business, just give it a try. You might be surprised at what you can make out of it.” – Colten Delehanty💬 “Don’t grow too fast. Take on what you can handle and do it well.” – C.J.💬 “A lot of customers want a one-stop shop—they trust one company to handle all their landscaping needs.” – Colten Delehanty

The Green Edge Debut: Business, Family, and Lawn Care Insights

In the inaugural episode of The Green Edge with C.J., host C.J. introduces listeners to the mission and vision of his podcast. With over a decade of experience in the green industry, C.J. shares his journey of turning lawn care into both a passion and a thriving business. This episode explores the podcast’s focus on practical tips for business owners, insights into industry trends, and occasional guest appearances. From lawn care techniques to managing a self-funded business, C.J. provides a fresh perspective for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is the perfect introduction to growing, thriving, and cutting through the noise.
Key Takeaways:
Introduction to C.J.’s Experience: Over ten years in lawn care and snow removal in southeastern Michigan.
Podcast Purpose: A blend of green industry insights, business advice, and personal stories.
Self-Funded Venture: The podcast is supported by C.J. himself, with opportunities for advertising partnerships.
Connect with C.J.: Listeners can engage via Instagram, Facebook, or email.
Future Content: Guest interviews, industry trends, and tips for sharpening your edge in lawn care and beyond.
Notable Quotes:
"I find it a passion more than a career. Just cause I get to turn lawns from overgrown to masterpieces."
"We don’t put all our eggs in the snow basket because snow equipment isn’t cheap, and winters have been unpredictable."
"Together, we’ll grow greener and healthier lawns, one lawn at a time."

The Green Edge with CJ Trailer

Welcome to The Green Edge with your host, CJ! 
Expect fresh perspectives, practical tips, and special guest appearances every month—bringing insights from both inside and outside the green industry. Whether you’re a lawn care pro, a business owner, or just looking to sharpen your edge, this podcast is for you.
Let’s grow, thrive, and cut through the noise—this is The Green Edge!