Kenny Smith

I have spent the last 14 years growing and operating a small business in the landscape industry. Over that period of time my wife and I grew the company from a solopreneur venture to an organization of 30 team members and recently sold the company in September of 2019 so I could pursue my true passion – teaching and coaching small business owners, managers and their teams. My journey in small business was transformational and I know the timeless principles taught at SET will allow me to help people have the same life-changing experiences. I am excited to be a part of this team and look forward to helping build exceptional people and companies.

A FEW THINGS ABOUT ME:

I live in Spokane Valley, WA with my beautiful wife Paula and our two boys Graham and Brooks. Paula and I were both born and raised here in Spokane Valley.
I graduated Cum Laude from Eastern Washington University in 2006 with a degree in Social Studies Secondary Education.
I spent 8 years as a high school baseball coach and marching band instructor.
We started our landscape company in 2007 as a classic entrepreneurial hiccup, looking for a way to make money between school years to support our young household.
In 2011 we rolled our small company into a franchise called The Grounds Guys I quit teaching at that time and my wife joined the company full time in 2012.
We received the following recognition during our time with The Ground Guys:
- 2011 Franchise of the Year
- 2013 Sales Professional of the Year
- 3X Excellence in Leadership
- 3X Excellence in Mentorship
- Recognized with Brand Pioneer Award in 2019 for Innovation and System Improvement during our time with the Franchise.
We successfully transitioned and sold our business in September 2019 to our long time Production Manager and another former team member.
My wife Paula is now the owner-operator of her family’s Awards and Engraving business. She is now the 3rd generation to own and operate the company.
I love reading and listening to books, audio and podcasts on business, leadership, self-development, history and other topics. One of my goals is to have a library room full of books.
Having run and built a small business with my spouse I know the unique challenges that it can present. It is also one of the most incredible experiences I believe you can share together if done well.
My WHY statement:
- “To relentlessly grow and develop my character living a life of excellence so that my example may compel others to engage in the same internal processes.”
Favorite quote: “Don’t wish it were easier wish you were better.” -Jim Rohn-

I was introduced to SET originally by Chris Elmore who was the brand President at The Grounds Guys before joining the SET Team. Brandon Cockrell was one of our Franchise Consultants for a two year period before going to work at SET as well.

I am very excited to join the SET team and look forward to participating and sharing the mission of the organization.

What SETs Us Apart?

Proactive Business Plans

A proactive business is a successful business. That's why our team takes the time to make sure every client has a proactive, not reactive, business plan. Our strategies make your business run more smoothly and profitable.

Proven Results

Our training services help businesses identify and achieve their key performance indicators (KPIs). Whether it's increased revenue or higher satisfaction rates, our methods allow you to see immediate and continued results.

Personalized Training

Our team of experts works hard to make sure your business gets personalized training. We'll work with your team one-on-one or in group settings to set and achieve your business goals. We develop training based on your goals!

Prioritizing People

We believe that people are the most valuable asset. We strive to provide outstanding benefits, life balance, leadership, and support to our team. We believe in helping people reach their greatest level of growth, contribution and satisfaction.

See What We Can Do For You