We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shane Holbein a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Shane, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I found my purpose by aligning my work with the life I want to lead—one where I set an example for my children and have the flexibility to be present for my family. Owning a pest control company and coaching college tennis have given me the opportunity to do meaningful work while still making time for the people who matter most.
What drives me every day is the ability to show my kids what hard work, discipline, and integrity look like—both in business and on the court. Whether I’m solving a problem for a customer or helping a student-athlete grow, it all ties back to leading by example. My purpose isn’t just about success; it’s about building a life where family comes first, and where my children can see firsthand what it means to live with intention.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I own and operate Commonwealth Pest Management, a locally rooted pest control company based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. We specialize in both residential and commercial pest control, offering customized solutions that are safe, effective, and designed to give our clients peace of mind.
What sets us apart is the personal attention we bring to every job. We’re not a national chain—our customers know who’s coming to their home, and they can trust that we stand behind our work. It’s important to me that we operate with integrity, communicate clearly, and genuinely care about the people we serve.
What excites me most is helping customers regain comfort in their homes and businesses—whether that’s through eliminating a termite problem or designing a proactive treatment plan. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that we’re making a tangible difference in people’s lives and protecting the value of their property.
As we grow, we’re continuing to invest in new technology and eco-conscious products that are better for families, pets, and the environment. We’ve recently expanded our commercial service offerings and are planning additional service routes to reach more communities in Central PA.
Commonwealth Pest Management isn’t just about pest control—it’s about earning trust and building long-term relationships with our customers.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
People-building skills – One of the most valuable things I’ve learned is that relationships drive business. You never know who you’ll meet that could eventually become a customer, a referral source, or even a business partner. I’ve made it a priority to genuinely connect with people and stay involved in my local community. For anyone just starting out, focus on building trust and being consistent—it pays off in ways you can’t always predict.
Blending technical knowledge with business and field experience – My background in software development and sales gave me a strong foundation in how small service businesses operate. Pairing that with hands-on experience as a pest control technician gave me the full picture—how to run a business from the inside out. My advice is to get experience from multiple angles. Learn the backend systems, understand the customer experience, and don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves.
Taking a risk – None of this would’ve happened if I didn’t step out of my comfort zone. Starting my own company was a leap, but growth doesn’t come without some discomfort. For those early in their journey: take the risk, but do it with a plan. Educate yourself, surround yourself with mentors, and when the moment comes—bet on yourself.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
Over the past year, my biggest area of growth has been in self-discipline—especially when it comes to my daily routines and personal health. I’ve made a conscious effort to prioritize not just my own well-being, but also my family’s. That’s meant focusing on clean eating, staying consistent with exercise—whether it’s tennis, golf, or strength training—and cutting out alcohol completely.
Beyond the physical, I’ve also experienced meaningful growth in my faith. Taking time each day for spiritual reflection has helped ground me, improve my mindset, and bring a deeper sense of purpose to both my personal life and professional work. It’s all added up to a healthier, more intentional version of myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cpmpest.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cpmpest
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-holbein/
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