What happens when someone believes in your potential more than you do?

In this latest episode of the Skid Steer Nation Podcast, Ryan Deemer sits down with Drew Gardner of Tennessee Valley Land Works. While many contractors start small and grow, Drew’s story stands out because of one critical relationship—a general contractor who saw his worth, offered him a shot, and unknowingly changed the course of his life and business.

This conversation goes far beyond dirt work. It’s about mentorship, humility, and learning how to stand your ground in the tough world of commercial excavation.

Key Insights:

✅ The Job That Changed It All: How a small commercial parking lot job opened doors to bigger contracts and licensing opportunities.

✅ Lessons from a Mentor: The advice that stuck with Drew—and how it still shapes the way he runs his business today.

✅ Standing Your Ground: Why giving in too much on commercial jobs can cost you, and how Drew’s learning to protect his business.

✅ Marketing Without Even Trying: Why Drew’s Facebook presence plays a bigger role in his business than he thought.

Why This Episode Matters: If you’ve ever questioned your next move—or needed someone to believe in you when you weren’t quite ready—this episode is a must-listen. Drew’s story is raw, honest, and full of lessons for contractors navigating both growth and setbacks.

🔗 Connect with Success:

👉 Visit Tennessee Valley Land Works on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tennesseevalleylandworks

👉 Skid Steer Nation: Your go-to destination for American-made skid steer attachments: ⁠https://skidsteernation.com/⁠

👉 Throttled Up Marketing: Struggling to get your excavation or land service business noticed? Learn how to dominate your market at ⁠https://www.getthrottledup.com/⁠

Join us next week for more stories from the boots-on-the-ground professionals shaping the excavation industry.