What does it really take to get out of the truck and build a pest control company that can grow without you?

In this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Allan Draper sits down with John Stopka, co-founder of Liberty Pest Control, to break down how John scaled his company past $1M in under two years, starting at just 25 years old, by focusing on leadership, systems, and intentional hiring from day one.

John shares his mindset shift from technician to business owner, why he never wanted to “create another job” for himself, and how buying back his time early allowed Liberty Pest Control to grow faster and healthier. They walk through the real, behind-the-scenes progression of replacing yourself in your business, from technician, to CSR, to salesperson, to manager, and how to know when it’s time to make each hire.

This conversation goes beyond tactics and digs into the emotional side of leadership:
• Letting go of control
• Hiring people who are better than you
• Training employees even when they might leave
• Handling fear, stress, and responsibility as an owner
• Building systems so the business doesn’t rely on you

Allan and John also talk candidly about cash flow, owner pay cuts, documenting processes, building culture, and why mistakes are a necessary part of growth. If you’re feeling stuck in the day-to-day, unsure when to hire, or wondering how to scale without burning out, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and a roadmap forward.

Whether you’re just getting started or pushing past your first million, this is a must-listen for any pest control owner who wants to work on their business, not be trapped in it.