Chapter 1: Meet the Host - Stephen Vantassel Welcome to the enthralling world of "Living the Wildlife," a podcast dedicated to unraveling the intricacies of wildlife control. In this exclusive interview, your host, Stephen Vantassel, a recognized expert in the field, engages in a captivating conversation with Bill Dowd, the President, and CEO of Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. Join us as we dive deep into the unique and essential profession of wildlife control. Chapter 2: The Evolution of Wildlife Control Wildlife control has come a long way since its inception, and Bill Dowd, with over 30 years of experience, has witnessed its evolution firsthand. In this chapter, we embark on a journey through time to understand how technology has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing wildlife control. In the early days, exclusion technology was the name of the game. The process of reuniting young animals with their mothers was one of the core aspects of this industry. But the transformation didn't stop there. Dowd emphasizes how the integration of modern tools and technologies, such as databases for homeowner information, drones, infrared cameras, and even alarms on technicians' hips, has propelled the industry forward. Discover how these technological advancements have not only enhanced the efficiency of wildlife control but also ensured the safety of both professionals and the animals they work with. Skedaddle Wildlife Control, under Bill Dowd's leadership, has harnessed these innovations to maintain its position at the forefront of the industry. Chapter 3: Navigating the Labor Challenge One of the most pressing challenges in the wildlife control industry is navigating the labor force. In this chapter, Bill Dowd shares invaluable insights into attracting and retaining top talent. The demand for skilled professionals in this field is ever-present, and finding the right team members can be a daunting task. However, Dowd provides a beacon of hope for businesses. He highlights the importance of offering competitive compensation packages, company vehicles, and fostering a strong team-oriented culture. These elements are not just perks; they're essential for retaining the best workforce. Discover why a dedicated team can make all the difference when addressing wildlife issues. As Dowd puts it, wildlife control isn't just about solving problems; it's about creating a better living environment for both humans and animals. Chapter 4: Profit Sharing: Motivating the Workforce Employee motivation is a critical factor in the success of any business, and Bill Dowd has an innovative approach - profit sharing. In this chapter, we delve into the intricacies of this method and how it's more than just an additional line in an employee's paycheck. Profit sharing, as Dowd explains, aligns the entire team toward common goals. It transforms the workforce into a collective force, working towards shared objectives. However, the challenge lies in ensuring that profit sharing doesn't become a static part of an employee's salary. Learn from Dowd's experience how to keep this motivation alive, ensuring that employees treat profit sharing as a bonus, not an entitlement. Discover the art of recognizing exceptional efforts and how it can lead to a motivated and loyal workforce. Chapter 5: The Future of Wildlife Control The future of wildlife control is as dynamic as the industry itself. In this chapter, we turn to Bill Dowd's crystal ball to gain insights into the growth areas and emerging challenges the industry will face. With a keen eye on trends, Dowd predicts the emergence of new species and wildlife-human conflicts. As our world changes, so do the habitats of animals, often bringing them into closer contact with humans. Dowd offers his insights into how the industry can adapt to these shifts, providing humane solutions while protecting both people and wildlife.