By Justin Stoddart

Introduction

At ProInsight, we’re obsessed with uncovering what truly drives long-term success for high-performing professionals. In a recent episode of the Think Bigger podcast, me and my co-host Stephanie Peck sat down with Steve Griggs, founder of Steve Griggs Design, to unpack the raw, unfiltered principles that have helped him build a multi-million dollar landscaping business from humble beginnings.

Steve’s story is more than inspiring—it’s instructive. From being a construction worker’s son in New York to being featured in Forbes, Inc. 5000, and Grant Cardone’s Power Players, Steve embodies what it looks like to lead with discipline, integrity, and a no-excuses mindset.

No Excuses, Just Execution

One of the most powerful takeaways from the interview? The “no excuses” mentality. Steve grew up watching his father show up every day on New York construction sites—rain, snow, or shine. That mindset has shaped his business: “Nobody wants to hear your story. They just want to know: Is the job done, and is it done right?”

In industries like real estate and professional services, this principle is gold. Instead of offering reasons why something didn’t go right, deliver results. This simple shift in mindset sets top performers apart.

Serve First, Always

Stephanie shared a principle that cuts across every industry: remove yourself from the equation. Whether you’re showing homes or designing a backyard oasis, clients don’t care about your missed soccer game or why the vendor was late. What they care about is, Are you focused on them and solving their problem?

Real service means becoming radically client-centric. Steve echoed this with a killer insight: “When I email a client at 4:45 AM, they know I’m thinking of them first. That alone has won me more business than any ad.”

Keep Your Promises (Even When It’s Hard)

It’s easy to make commitments in business. It’s harder to keep them when things get messy. Steve talked about the importance of operational discipline: “Clients hire you. They don’t care if your supplier didn’t show up. You have to own the solution.”

At ProInsight, we call this high-trust execution—a non-negotiable for professionals who want to lead their industries.

Want to build more trust with your sphere? Learn how to create strategic referral partnerships that reinforce your reputation with every interaction.

Collaboration Beats Cold Outreach

In a world where many businesses rely on Facebook ads and SEO gimmicks, Steve has stayed focused on building real relationships. By becoming the “guy who knows a guy,” he’s positioned himself as a central figure in his clients’ networks.

Stephanie emphasized how this approach mirrors what top real estate professionals do. Your value isn’t just in helping a client buy or sell—it’s in being their go-to expert for everything from roofing to refinancing.

Create Confidence, Not Just Trust

As Stephanie put it: “Trust gets you hired. Confidence keeps you top of mind.” That distinction is everything.

When your clients are confident in your abilities, they don’t just refer you—they rave about you. Confidence is built through consistency, candor, and competence.

Final Word: The Power of Simple Principles

Success doesn’t have to be complex. In fact, it rarely is. The top lessons from Steve, Stephanie, and Justin aren’t about secret hacks—they’re about timeless truths:

• Show up early.

• Say what you’ll do, and do what you say.

• Prioritize people over ego.

• Build partnerships that compound your influence.

At ProInsight, we’re here to empower you to reach new heights. Let’s think bigger together.