We recently had the chance to connect with Donna Delaney and have shared our conversation below.
Donna, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
For me, it’s the culture and energy inside Dowco. Most people see the landscapes we care for or the properties we maintain, but what they don’t see is the vibe behind the scenes—the smiles in the morning, the laughter between crews, the way people genuinely enjoy coming to work.
I’m proud of the low turnover because to me, that means people feel valued. I’m proud when I see the right people in the right seats, doing work that matches their strengths. And I’m especially proud that our team does meaningful work that matters—not just to our clients, but to their own sense of purpose.
Building a place where people feel safe, supported, and excited to grow will always be the part of Dowco that most people never see… but it’s the part that matters most to me.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Donna Delaney, the owner and president of Dowco Enterprises, a full-service landscape maintenance company serving the St. Louis region for more than 40 years. I’ve been part of Dowco since 1986 and took full ownership in 2024. What makes our company unique is the culture we’ve built—one rooted in energy, momentum, and opportunity for both our clients and our team.
At Dowco, we believe, outdoor spaces should feel effortless for the people who enjoy them. Our job is to make landscapes look beautiful, healthy, and entertainment-ready, day in and day out. But behind the scenes, we’re just as focused on creating meaningful, fulfilling work for our team. Low turnover, growth opportunities, and people working in their strengths are hallmarks of our culture and a big part of our success.
Right now, I’m focused on thoughtful growth—expanding our facilities, welcoming new talent, strengthening our systems, and continuing to elevate the professionalism and pride within our industry. I’m also passionate about storytelling and helping shine a light on the incredible people doing the hard, hands-on work in landscaping.
In short, I help create beautiful outdoor environments for our clients—and a thriving, purpose-driven workplace for the people who make it all happen.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world nudged me in any direction, I was a girl who dreamed of being a mom and a teacher. I did become a mom—my favorite role—and even though I didn’t go into education, that “teacher” part of me never went away. It shows up every day in how I lead. I encourage, mentor, guide, and help people grow in their strengths. I may have chosen business over the classroom, but the heart of a teacher still shapes everything I do.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me things success never could. Hard seasons have a way of bringing me closer to God. In the middle of challenges, I can see more clearly how He softens every blow and sends exactly the people, gifts, and support I need—often before I even know to ask.
Those experiences have shown me that, at the end of the day, it’s all about people. The ones who stand with you in the hard moments, the ones who quietly show up with encouragement, and the ones God places in your path for a reason. And it’s also a reminder for me to be that person for others—to offer the same strength, grace, and presence that was given to me.
Success feels good, but suffering teaches you what truly matters.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes. What you see is who I am. I don’t have a separate public persona—I show up the same way with my team, my clients, my family, and in my community. The values I lead with in business are the same ones I live by personally. Authenticity matters to me, so the public version of me is simply the real me.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When have you had to bet the company?
In many ways, I bet the company every day. As an owner, I make decisions that are far bigger than my own personal budget—choices about people, equipment, growth, facilities, pricing, and risk. Dowco is much larger than just me, and every decision carries weight because it impacts dozens of families, not just my own.
I don’t think of it as one dramatic moment of “betting the company,” but rather a constant responsibility to make bold, thoughtful decisions that move us forward. That’s the real bet—showing up every day with clarity, courage, and conviction, knowing the choices I make shape the future of Dowco and the people who depend on it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dowcoinc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dowcoinc/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/689279/admin/dashboard/
- Twitter: https://x.com/DowcoInc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DowcoEnterprises
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYr5bPK4gpD4QXL3Pp9325w
