Community Highlights: Meet Zach Russell of The Pothole Patrol

Today we’d like to introduce you to Zach Russell.

Hi Zach, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, you could tell our readers some of your backstory.
The Pothole Patrol started from the back end of a 1984 Ford F150, a shovel, and a hand tamper when I was just 19 years old. I had just graduated from Blue Valley North (class of 2004, go Mustangs!) and was in my “off year,” deciding whether to go to College full-time or do something else. I decided on something else and started to fill potholes and seal coat driveways. I was my boss at 19; I drove around the KC area looking for potholes; we all know they are everywhere, and I learned my trade along the way. I didn’t have anyone in my family doing this; I come from a background of plumbers. Yes, that one. Bob Hamilton is my uncle. And I didn’t want to go that route. Now, 19 years later, we still serve Kansas City and the 4 KS, IA, MO, and OK state areas. We specialize in potholes and pothole repair, both residential and commercial. But we also offer concrete, striping, seal coating, and decking. In our off-season, we remodel kitchens and baths. So, I have become a Jack of All trades. But potholes are my favorite!

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It still isn’t a smooth road. As much as you think being your boss will be a good thing, it’s very challenging. I must make my business contacts; we are still searching daily for potholes. Nothing has come easy. Like many other contractors I know, we lost everything during the pandemic. And I only had what I had started with 16 years prior: an old truck, a shovel, and a hand tamper. But with my endurance and patience, I have been able to begin rebuilding my business again.

As you know, we’re big fans of The Pothole Patrol. What can you tell our readers who might not be as familiar with the brand?
We specialize in pothole repair both in asphalt and concrete. In residential and commercial parking areas, we offer preventative asphalt maintenance, including seal coating, striping, crack fill, concrete sealant, and winter care. New customers receive a 25% discount on their first seal coating. All customers receive a 1-year color warranty and a 2 year pothole warranty. Residential offerings – kitchen/bath remodels- licensed insured tile, paint, decking. What sets us apart is we do what we say. We are big enough to deliver but small enough to listen. We work with people on a smaller budget; we don’t pass on minor jobs. Everyone deserves nice things.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting?
Save your money! Things happen constantly in this business; sometimes, those issues can arise and cost several thousand dollars. Having a nest egg is essential. Secondly, hustle. The harder you put yourself out there, the more business you generate. And once you have a customer, they can be a lifelong customer. Do what you say and say what you mean. Be honest and do a good job, period.

Pricing:

• Pricing is per sq ft and differs per area.
• Free bids on everything