Episode Overview
Success in landscaping isn't just about keeping grass green and hedges trimmed—it's about understanding the business behind the beauty.
Yocelin Reynoso-Prado discovered this truth when she transitioned from medical billing to branch management at SouthWest Landscape. Her financial background became an unexpected asset in an industry where operational due diligence often takes a backseat to aesthetics.
The landscaping industry has traditionally operated on reactive maintenance models. Property managers call when problems arise, contractors respond, and the cycle repeats.
Reynoso-Prado flipped this approach entirely.
Her strategy centers on transparent communication and partnership thinking. Instead of waiting for issues to surface, she proactively engages clients with data-driven insights and preventive solutions.
This shift from vendor to partner mentality has transformed how SouthWest Landscape operates in the competitive Los Angeles market. Clients receive regular updates, detailed reporting, and strategic recommendations that extend far beyond basic maintenance schedules.
The results speak volumes. As a 2025 Lawn & Landscape Employee of the Year finalist, Reynoso-Prado represents a new generation of landscape professionals who understand that sustainable growth requires both horticultural expertise and business acumen.
Her journey with artificial intelligence (AI) mirrors her overall approach to innovation. Initial skepticism gave way to strategic implementation when she recognized AI's potential as a "teammate" for reporting and sales analysis.
For women entering leadership roles in landscaping, Reynoso-Prado offers straightforward advice about claiming authority while leading with compassion. The trades industry is evolving, and diverse perspectives are driving meaningful change.
[3:08] What separates great landscaping leaders from the rest of the field
[7:29] How Southwest is using AI in their day-to-day workflows
[12:22] Why transparent communication is the key to long-term success
[16:20] Advice to women seeking leadership roles in the landscaping industry
Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:
Lawn & Landscape 2025 Employee of the Year Winners
Yocelin's Employee of the Year Article
You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.
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