Summary

In this conversation, John Pierson shares his personal experience with mosquitoes and the challenges he faced while trying to create a mosquito-free outdoor space. He discusses his initial solution of using tiki torches and the problems that arose from that approach. Ultimately, this led to the innovative idea of BuzzCaps, a product designed to enhance outdoor living by effectively managing mosquito issues.

Takeaways

• John faced a significant mosquito problem in his outdoor space.
• He initially tried using tiki torches for mosquito control.
• Tiki torches proved to be an ineffective solution.
• John's frustration led him to think creatively about the problem.
• The idea for BuzzCaps emerged from his need for a better solution.
• BuzzCaps are designed to attach to privacy fences for better stability.
• John's experience highlights the importance of innovation in everyday problems.
• The conversation emphasizes the value of persistence in problem-solving.
• Outdoor living spaces can be improved with innovative products.
• John's story is a testament to turning challenges into opportunities.
• Transform Your Outdoor Experience with BuzzCaps: A Game-Changer for Homeowners

1. The Birth of BuzzCaps

John Pierson shares the story of how he and his family created BuzzCaps. After building their first pool in Maine, they struggled with mosquito infestations that ruined their evenings. Inspired by their challenges, John set out to develop a product that would allow them to enjoy their poolside without the pesky bugs. Thus, BuzzCaps was born—a simple yet effective solution that transforms deck or fence posts into tiki torches, utilizing citronella oil to deter mosquitoes naturally.

2. Understanding the Product

BuzzCaps are designed to fit on four-inch or five-inch posts and require no tools for installation. Each product comes with a 12-ounce oil canister to hold citronella oil, which masks human scent and keeps mosquitoes at bay. This innovative design not only solves a common problem but does so in a way that enhances the aesthetic of outdoor living spaces. John emphasizes that a clean and upscale look was a priority during development, making BuzzCaps an attractive addition to any deck or backyard.

3. A Family Affair

What makes BuzzCaps special is its family-oriented foundation. John, his wife Lisa, and their son Max collaborated throughout the design process. They voted on various names, ultimately settling on BuzzCaps, which cleverly reflects the product's purpose. John credits his family for their encouragement and feedback, helping him refine the design to its current successful form.

4. The Importance of Networking

John highlights the significance of networking in growing BuzzCaps. During his first expo experience at the Pool, Spa, Deck, and Patio Expo in Vegas, he made valuable connections with distributors and learned about the industry. This exposure opened doors to new opportunities and potential partnerships, proving that stepping outside one's comfort zone can yield incredible results.

5. Future Prospects

As a relatively young company, BuzzCaps is focused on spreading awareness about their product. John envisions expanding their product line to cater to different materials and post sizes, further enhancing outdoor living experiences for homeowners. This innovative approach shows that BuzzCaps is not just a product but a brand dedicated to improving outdoor spaces.

Conclusion:

BuzzCaps presents a fresh solution to a longstanding problem for outdoor enthusiasts. The combination of thoughtful design, family collaboration, and effective networking has positioned BuzzCaps as a standout product in the home improvement industry. By offering a stylish way to enjoy outdoor living without the nuisance of mosquitoes, BuzzCaps is set to transform backyards everywhere.

Key Takeaways:

- BuzzCaps is a family-run business that provides an innovative solution for mosquito control in outdoor spaces.

- The product is designed to enhance the aesthetic of decks and fences while providing a functional benefit.

- Networking and community engagement are crucial for startup success, as demonstrated by John's experience at industry expos.

- BuzzCaps aims to expand its product offerings to meet diverse customer needs.

Finding What’s Hidden — Precision, People & Performance in Leak Detection

In this episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres interview Joseph Hernandez, Division Manager at CPL Detection, a leader in leak detection and underground utility locating. Joseph shares how his team combines advanced technology with expert craftsmanship to provide accurate, efficient, and trustworthy detection services across Southern California.

The conversation dives into the importance of precision in the trades, team leadership, mentorship, and developing a workforce that takes pride in solving tough problems. Joseph highlights how CPL Detection’s approach to training and innovation sets them apart, emphasizing professionalism, customer trust, and service excellence.

Whether you’re running a trade business or managing field technicians, Joseph’s insights reveal how building culture, communication, and capability can elevate your company’s reputation and long-term success.

Key takeaways:

• CPL has been in operation since 1976, focusing on leak detection and utility locating.
• Leak detection is an emergency response service, while utility locating is more planned and preventative.
• Ignoring leaks can lead to significant property damage and increased costs.
• CPL has improved its apprenticeship program, reducing training time while enhancing skill development.
• Company culture at CPL emphasizes core values like teamwork and excellence.
• CPL is committed to employee growth and offers opportunities for advancement.
• The company actively engages in community education about utility safety and damage prevention.
• CPL's leadership encourages open communication and values employee input.
• The demand for leak detection and utility locating services remains strong despite market fluctuations.
• CPL is focused on innovation, including developing new utility locating equipment.

🌐 CPL Detection — www.CPLDetection.com
📍 Learn more about CPL Detection’s leadership team: Our Team
📧 Email: info@cpldetection.com
💬 Connect with Joseph Hernandez on LinkedIn

CPL SAN DIEGO

1483 N. Second Street Suite #201 El Cajon, CA 92021
6197984479

CPL RIVERSIDE/ORANGE COUNTY

505 N. Smith Ave., Suite 107 Corona CA 92878
951-302-5057

CPL TENNESSEE

PO Box 216 Dandridge, TN 37725
865-545-9160

Email: info@cpldetection.com

🎙 The Trades Podcast — TheTradesPodcast.com
Follow on Instagram, YouTube, and Spotify for more interviews with industry leaders.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to CPL and Its Services

06:52 Understanding Leak Detection vs. Utility Locating

13:15 Consequences of Ignoring Leaks

19:10 The Importance of Utility Locating

24:10 CPL's Growth and Training Programs

27:39 Building a Strong Company Culture

35:49 The Importance of Growth and Development

42:56 Leadership and Employee Empowerment

50:02 Navigating Industry Challenges and Opportunities

In this powerful episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres sit down with Cliff Brooks, Co-Owner of Pest In Class®, a company redefining professional development in the pest control industry.

Cliff shares how Pest In Class is bridging the gap between education and real-world application—empowering technicians, company owners, and service leaders to reach new levels of excellence. From modernizing training programs to embracing digital learning platforms, Cliff explains how raising standards can attract better talent, improve retention, and boost long-term customer trust.

Listeners will walk away with inspiration and tangible insights about leadership, training culture, and how continuous education drives both individual growth and industry advancement.

Whether you’re in pest management, facility maintenance, or any skilled trade, this conversation will remind you that when you invest in people, you elevate the profession.

The vision behind Pest In Class® and its mission to professionalize pest control training.

How technology-driven learning can simplify onboarding and career advancement.

Why investing in technician education increases retention and customer satisfaction.

The importance of leadership in shaping culture and service standards.

How digital tools make technical learning accessible, practical, and scalable.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pesting Class Exterminating

02:43 Quality Over Competition in Pest Control

06:04 The Importance of Trades Education

10:38 Navigating the College vs. Trades Debate

14:08 The Current Job Market and Trade Opportunities

18:36 Pesting Class's Service Area and Customer Base

19:48 Understanding Common Pests

25:26 Integrated Pest Management Strategies

29:58 The Utility of Pest Control Services

33:55 Building Trust Through Quality Inspections

39:20 Innovative Pest Control Solutions

44:50 Personal Experiences in Pest Control

49:55 Customer-Centric Business Model

55:23 Engaging Customers with Pet Safety