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Small Business, Big Dreams
Welcome to Small Business Big Dreams, the podcast that shines a spotlight on the small businesses driving our communities forward. Hosted by Eric Bohl, this show uncovers the inspiring stories of local entrepreneurs who are the backbone of our economy.
Why Listen to Small Business Big Dreams?
In every episode, Eric takes you on a journey into the heart of small businesses—from charming mom-and-pop shops to innovative startups. We explore the passion, creativity, and dedication that fuel these ventures, showcasing how they overcome challenges and seize opportunities.
Our mission is to celebrate the resilience and grit of these entrepreneurs who work tirelessly to bring their visions to life. By sharing their stories, we aim to inspire others to pursue their own dreams and contribute to the community's vibrancy.
What to Expect?
In-Depth Interviews: Listen to candid conversations with business owners who share their journeys, insights, and advice.
Success Stories: Learn about the innovative strategies and hard work that have led to their success.
Community Impact: Understand the significant role these businesses play in enhancing our local economies and community spirit.
Actionable Tips: Gain practical tips and inspiration for your own entrepreneurial endeavors.
Each episode of Small Business Big Dreams is a celebration of the unique spirit that makes our community thrive. Eric Bohl brings his expertise and enthusiasm to each interview, ensuring you leave with a deeper appreciation for the local heroes who make a difference every day.
Join us on Small Business Big Dreams to be inspired, uplifted, and deeply connected to the people who shape our neighborhoods and drive our community forward. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a small business supporter, or just love a good success story, this podcast is for you.
Subscribe now to Small Business Big Dreams and never miss an episode. Together, let’s celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and the big dreams that start small.
Small Business, Big Dreams
Landscaping a Legacy: How Poul’s Has Grown Since 1966
In this episode of Small Business Big Dreams, I sit down with Dan Kjeldbjerg, President of Poul’s Landscaping & Nursery, and Jennifer, the company’s Director of Marketing, to explore the story behind one of the Midwest’s most respected names in landscaping. Founded in 1966 by Danish immigrant Paul (Poul) Kjeldbjerg, this family business has blossomed from a single-truck operation into a multi-acre, multi-generational powerhouse offering full-service landscape design, installation, and nursery production throughout Chicagoland and beyond.
Dan shares how he and his brother Alan helped evolve the company after joining in the 1980s and ’90s, using their backgrounds in marketing and horticulture to bring new life into the business their father started from humble beginnings. Jennifer gives insight into how the brand continues to modernize while staying rooted in its legacy—through strong storytelling, authentic community connections, and showcasing the beauty of their work in ways that resonate with new generations of homeowners and professionals alike.
We talk about how Poul’s Landscaping has expanded its footprint—from planting the first trees at their Long Grove property in the ’80s to operating a 112-acre wholesale nursery in Wadsworth—all while maintaining a reputation for excellence, craftsmanship, and personal service. From residential landscapes to large-scale nursery operations, Dan and Jennifer explain how the company continues to thrive through thoughtful leadership, passion for the craft, and a commitment to nurturing not just plants, but people and partnerships.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ How Poul’s Landscaping started with a single pickup and a dream
✅ The evolution of a family-run business into a regional leader in landscaping and nursery operations
✅ How Dan and Jennifer balance legacy with innovation and growth
✅ The importance of storytelling, branding, and relationship-building in a traditional industry
✅ Insights into running multi-acre operations, seasonal cycles, and team management
✅ What it takes to thrive in the green industry for over five decades
Why Poul’s Landscaping & Nursery Stands Out:
With deep family roots and a relentless commitment to quality, Poul’s Landscaping & Nursery has become synonymous with professionalism, reliability, and nature-inspired design. Their ability to combine generational experience with modern strategy—from operations to marketing—makes them a standout example of how traditional businesses can grow with purpose while staying true to their core values.
Perfect For:
🌿 Landscaping pros, designers, and home improvement enthusiasts
📈 Family business owners navigating growth and legacy
💡 Entrepreneurs interested in blending tradition with innovation
🌱 Green industry professionals & plant lovers
🎙️ Anyone inspired by stories of perseverance, evolution, and leadership
Connect with Poul’s Landscaping & Nursery:
📍 Offices in Long Grove, IL and nursery in Wadsworth, IL
🌐 Website: https://pouls.com/
📲 Instagram: @Pouls_Landscaping
🪴 Serving Chicagoland with expert landscaping and nursery services since 1966
🎧 Listen now to hear how Dan and Jennifer are helping Poul’s Landscaping grow stronger than ever—planting the seeds of legacy while leading with vision, family, and heart.
