Episode Description:

In this episode of Cosmos & Commerce, hosts Janice Francis and Michelle Cook sit down with Jennifer and Rob Hewitt, the powerhouse duo behind Columbus Hardscapes. Listen in as they share the journey of growing their company from a small lawn-mowing gig into a premier outdoor living business, crafting dream patios, and more.

Rob and Jennifer open up about the challenges they’ve faced, including workforce turnover, seasonal demands, and finding the right team. They reveal the marketing strategies that helped propel Columbus Hardscapes, from direct mail campaigns to social media and creating unforgettable Home and Garden Show displays. The Hewitts also discuss the unique, family-centered culture they've fostered within their team and how it's driven loyalty and retention.

Learn how they balance personal and business life, the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship, and their latest project, Columbus Hardscapes Cares, which gives back to the community by creating outdoor spaces for families in need.

Key Takeaways:

• Entrepreneurial Growth: Rob shares how he built Columbus Hardscapes from his lawn-mowing days through college and beyond.
• Workforce Solutions: Discover how the Hewitts have created a family-first atmosphere to retain talented staff in a challenging, seasonal industry.
• Effective Marketing: Insights into their approach to customer acquisition, including targeted direct mail, social media, and standout exhibitions at local shows.
• Balancing Business & Personal Life: The couple emphasizes the value of keeping evenings and weekends free to recharge with their family.
• Community Impact: Hear about their new charitable initiative, Columbus Hardscapes Cares, designed to support families with accessible outdoor spaces.

Lightning Round Highlights:

• Biggest inspiration, tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, and more in a fast-paced Q&A!

Tune in for an episode packed with insights on hardscaping, business growth, and maintaining work-life harmony. Don’t miss the wisdom from this episode—subscribe, rate, and follow Cosmos & Commerce for more entrepreneurial stories and insights!

Connect with Columbus Hardscapes:

• Facebook & Instagram: @ColumbusHardscapes
• Website: ColumbusHardscapes.com | InstallMyPatio.com

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Exploring Buckeye Lake with Jeff Comer of 3XP Tours

In this lively episode of Cosmos and Commerce, Michele and Janis sit down with Jeff Comer, the visionary behind 3XP Tours at Buckeye Lake, Ohio. Jeff takes listeners through his journey of creating unforgettable kayak and bike adventures that capture the spirit of the lake, complete with stops at local breweries and wineries. Dive into Jeff’s story and gain insights into his entrepreneurial path!

Episode Highlights:

1. Origins of 3XP Tours
   Jeff’s inspiration struck in 2016 after an incredible kayak brewery tour. He realized Buckeye Lake was the perfect backdrop for a unique experience he named “Paddles, Pedals, and Pints.” By 2021, his vision became a reality, connecting people with the natural beauty of Buckeye Lake.
2. The Challenge of Time
   Running 3XP as a side venture to his full-time role, Jeff shares his struggles with time management and his strategies for making every tour a memorable experience. Prioritizing and setting boundaries has been key to his success.
3. Pride in Buckeye Lake
   One of Jeff’s proudest achievements is drawing visitors from nearby states who often discover Buckeye Lake for the first time. By sharing this hidden gem, Jeff feels he’s fostering a deeper appreciation of local nature.
4. Marketing Mastery
   Leveraging his media background, Jeff partners with local influencers to grow his business. Through savvy marketing and building relationships, he’s brought 3XP Tours to the attention of both locals and tourists.
5. Exciting New Projects
   Jeff reveals his latest venture: a self-service kayak rental kiosk, launching soon in collaboration with Ohio State Parks. This “kayak shack” will allow visitors to scan and rent equipment at their convenience.
6. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
   Jeff encourages listeners to start with thorough research, build connections, and, above all, love what they do. “Put gasoline on the fire—go all the way,” he says.

Lightning Round: Fun Facts About Jeff

• Favorite Pump-Up Song: Till I Collapse by Eminem
• Top Gear for Business: A waterproof digital business card bracelet
• Proudest Personal Accomplishment: 20 years of marriage

Connect with 3XP Tours:
Ready for your own adventure at Buckeye Lake? Visit 3xptours.com or their facebook to book tours, including kayak, bike, and brew experiences, sunset paddles, and kid-friendly kayak outings. And look out for the self-rental “kayak shack” coming this spring!

Join the Cosmos!
Subscribe to Cosmos and Commerce, leave a review, and share this episode with friends who love adventure. Until next time—keep exploring, hustling, and savoring those Cosmos!

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of Cosmos and Commerce, hosts Michele and Janis sit down with Jennifer Beckwith, founder of Wayside Bookkeeping, to discuss her successful journey into restaurant and bar bookkeeping. Jennifer shares how she turned a side hustle into a thriving business, emphasizing the importance of understanding financial reports and the unique challenges of bookkeeping in the food industry. From networking strategies to mentoring aspiring bookkeepers, this conversation is filled with valuable insights.

Key Highlights:

• Jennifer's Journey: From empty nester to entrepreneur, she started her bookkeeping business in 2022 and quickly expanded to managing seven employees.
• Restaurant Industry Challenges: Jennifer dives deep into the complexities of restaurant and bar bookkeeping, mainly how to track labor costs, prime costs, and other financial details to help businesses grow.
• Networking and Trust: Jennifer explains her approach to networking, which focuses on building trust and relationships rather than just passing out business cards. She emphasizes the importance of connecting with people who know restaurant owners, even if they don’t have time for traditional networking events.
• Remote Work and Expansion: Wayside Bookkeeping serves clients across the U.S., including Arizona, Florida, and Colorado, with Jennifer's goal being to land clients in all 50 states.
• Mentorship and Growth: Jennifer not only runs her business but also mentors new bookkeepers, helping them understand the complexities of the profession.

Top 3 Takeaways:

1. Know Your Numbers: Business owners should regularly analyze their financial reports, especially in the restaurant industry. Just having money in the bank doesn't mean a business is profitable—knowing your prime costs, labor costs, and expenses is essential.
2. Build Relationships: Networking is not just about handing out business cards—it's about building trust and meaningful relationships. Jennifer emphasizes that especially in fields like bookkeeping, trust is key when handling clients' financial information.
3. Specialize and Grow: Focusing on a niche, like restaurant and bar bookkeeping, can help you stand out in your industry. Jennifer’s success came from specializing in this area, gaining expertise, and becoming a go-to expert for restaurant owners across the U.S.

Links

Wayside bookkeeping
Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
Networking Essentials for Success by Chris Borja

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