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Chasing Happy, Not Money: How One Family Lawncare Business Is Redefining Success In The Trades

Updated: Jun 16


By Sam Ettaro | Producer, Put Tools in Schools


In the heart of Mint Hill, North Carolina, a powerful story unfolded unexpectedly during a video shoot for our friends at Mint Hill Tool Rental. Jonathan Stovall, founder of the family-run landscaping company Cut’N Mow Bros, struck up a conversation that quickly evolved into an impromptu masterclass in entrepreneurship, faith, and redefining the American Dream.


“I was done teaching,” Jonathan told me, his voice both calm and certain. “I finally decided to step out, and I’m glad I did.”


Originally a math teacher with over a decade in the classroom, Jonathan’s journey is one that resonates with many. It began with twin boys, a new neighborhood, and a shared desire to keep their surroundings beautiful. What started as a summer project quickly evolved into a full-blown family business—fueled by passion and guided by purpose.


“I didn’t want to take time away from my children. So I work around it. I drop them off at school, pick them up. I work at my own discretion.”

ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW VIDEO:


A Lesson in Freedom

During the pandemic, as many of us were reassessing our lives, Jonathan found himself teaching remotely—but yearning for something more. Armed with nothing but a Yukon SUV and a dream, he and his family began cutting lawns. Slowly, steadily, they built a loyal client base. Today, Cut’N Mow Bros is a thriving business.


The leap wasn’t about chasing dollars—it was about "chasing happy", as PTIS Founder Ray Terry says!


“When you're providing a service and serving others, there's joy in it. And the money? It’ll come. But don’t chase money—chase the happy.”


The State of the Landscape Industry

Stories like Jonathan’s aren’t as rare as they once were. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the landscaping services industry employs over 1.3 million people across the country—and it’s growing. Job openings for grounds maintenance workers are projected to increase by 5% between now and 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations.


And the pay? It might surprise you. Entry-level landscaping techs can start around $16–$20/hour, with seasoned professionals and business owners like Jonathan easily earning $60,000 to $100,000+ annually—especially those who build clientele and expand into commercial services.


“What I was getting paid per month as a teacher… I now make that in a week.”


A Call to Young People—and Their Parents

For students being funneled through an academic system that insists a four-year degree is the only way forward, Jonathan’s story is a powerful counterpoint.


“There is so much creativity in our youth that is never tapped into. I challenge students: what would you build if you had the tools?”


It’s a message that echoes the Put Tools in Schools mission: to open the doors to fulfilling, high-paying, purpose-driven careers in the trades—without the burden of college debt.


“There is a passion deep within all of us. A gift like no other that will actually be a blessing in your life.”


The Power of Small Business—and Family

Cut’N Mow Bros isn’t just a business. It’s a family-first operation, centered on values, freedom, and flexibility. Jonathan’s boys work alongside him in the summers. His schedule bends around family life—not the other way around. That flexibility, he says, is priceless.


“I love teaching. I didn’t stop. I started tutoring on the side, online. It opened my eyes to how many opportunities I’d been limiting myself from.”


This kind of self-determined living is increasingly attractive to millennials and Gen Z. In fact, over 60% of Gen Z say they would prefer to start their own business rather than work a traditional job. Jonathan is living proof that it’s not only possible—it’s fulfilling.


Final Thought: Plant the Seeds Early

We wrapped our conversation with a shared truth: Many of us had to take the long road to get here. But today’s young people don’t have to.


With the right mentors, encouragement, and exposure to real-world success stories like Jonathan’s, they can find their path much earlier—and start building a life of purpose right now.


“Don’t wait till you're 45 to figure it out like I did,” Jonathan says. “Sit with yourself. Write it down. What do you love? What are you good at? Someone out there is doing it already—find them. Connect. Learn.”


Cut’N Mow Bros is more than a landscaping business. It’s a living, growing example of what happens when you follow your passion, serve others, and build something beautiful—with your family by your side.


Need help launching your own dream?

Follow Jonathan on Facebook at Cut’N Mow Bros , find them on Instagram, or call (912) 508-1098 to learn about opportunities in this industry.

And stay tuned for more Put Tools in Schools stories from around the Charlotte metro area and beyond!


Put Tools in Schools is proud to highlight businesses like Cut'N Mow Bros. If you value this work, and Jonathan's story, then please LIKE, and SHARE this story!


Support the mission by donating or volunteering at www.puttoolsinschools.org.





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