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Rental Roundtable #83: Growth in Rental Starts With the Basics

36 Min
January 6, 2026
Episode #83
Before you spend on marketing

Episode Overview

In this episode, Kyle sits down with Don Hundley, founder and CEO of Iron Pulse, to talk about what it actually takes for rental companies to grow revenue. Don explains why growth starts with mastering the fundamentals, from operational readiness and service capacity to consistent marketing execution.

They discuss the “blocking and tackling” basics every rental business should focus on before chasing more advanced strategies, including using customer data, improving SEO, and strengthening your Google Business Profile. Don also shares how trade associations, internal marketing, and aligning your marketing plan with fleet profitability can create sustainable, long-term growth.

Timestamps:

  • 00:00 – Kicking off the first episode of 2026 and framing growth in the rental industry
  • 04:02 – Understanding revenue growth strategies for rental companies
  • 07:11 – The “blocking and tackling” marketing basics rental companies must master
  • 09:21 – Why rental marketing works like a cast net, not a spear gun
  • 15:34 – Moving beyond the basics and knowing when to run “trick plays”
  • 17:48 – Why trade associations matter when you invest sweat equity, not just dues
  • 21:30 – Turning drivers and technicians into internal marketing advocates
  • 25:27 – Why marketing fails if operations and service fall short
  • 29:26 – Aligning marketing plans with fleet mix and profitability goals
  • 35:31 – What to look for when hiring a marketing partner who understands rental

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About the Speakers

Don Hundley

Don Hundley

Don Hundley is the owner and operator of Iron Pulse and an equipment industry professional with experience across the rental, dealership, and manufacturer sectors. He began his career as an early employee at a startup equipment dealership and rental company, where he helped support the company’s growth from one location to 20 across the southeastern United States.

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