The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series

In this week’s 10-Minute Business Tip (ok, maybe a bit longer 😅), I’m joined by the legendary garden designer, RHS judge, and BBC presenter Manoj Malde We dive into 3 unmissable business tips for landscapers and designers:1️⃣ Get yourself a great accountant – save time, stress & serious £££2️⃣ Build strong relationships – collaboration is the secret sauce3️⃣ Protect your reputation – your clients are your best marketing team!Plus, we talk attracting young talent into the industry, the value of investing in your garden (and your team), and why the cheapest quote often costs the most in the end! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“If you don’t focus on your strengths and test your ideas before diving in, you’re not building a business—you’re just spinning your wheels.” — Steve Walley In this episode of the Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tip Series, host Nick Ruddle welcomes back Steve Walley, a familiar face from the first series and a key figure at London Stone. Steve brings his wealth of experience to the table, sharing practical, no-nonsense tips to help landscape business owners sharpen their focus, boost efficiency, and grow smarter. Key Takeaways:1. Play to Your Strengths:  - Resist the temptation to chase every new idea—stick to what you’re best at to avoid diluting your business.  - Steve shares how straying into commercial paving and interior tiles cost time and money before refocusing on London Stone’s core strengths.  - Focus on being exceptional in one area rather than average across many.2. Daily Accountability:  - Set clear daily goals for yourself and your team to stay on track and avoid reactive firefighting.  - Steve introduces the “stand-up” meeting—a quick daily check-in to review yesterday’s progress and plan today’s priorities.  - This simple habit keeps everyone aligned, accountable, and free to work without constant oversight.3. Test Before You Invest:  - Before committing time and money to a new venture, test the market demand first.  - Steve recounts advising a friend to gauge interest in tailored gym meal plans via Instagram, saving six months and significant costs when the idea flopped.  - Start small, prove the concept, and scale only when you’ve confirmed the demand.4. Attracting Talent to Landscaping:  - Encourage hands-on skills in kids early on—Steve credits his dad’s garden projects for sparking his interest in physical work.  - Highlight the industry’s creativity and “cool factor,” from stunning gardens to rock-star status at events like Chelsea.  - As AI takes over desk jobs, trades like landscaping will rise in value and appeal.5. Lifelong Learning:  - Stay inquisitive—every person you meet knows something you don’t, so listen closely.  - Leverage free resources like YouTube, TikTok, and podcasts to keep your skills sharp.  - Steve’s tip: truly hear what people say instead of waiting for your turn to speak.Resources Mentioned:- London Stone: londonstone.co.uk- Steve’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stevelondonstoneConnect with Steve Walley:- Website: londonstone.co.ukFinal Thoughts:Nick and Steve urge landscapers to hone their focus, test ideas smartly, and embrace daily habits that drive success. Whether it’s sticking to your strengths or inspiring the next generation, these actionable tips can transform your business—and your life. Start today, keep it simple, and watch the results pile up. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“If your business doesn’t work without you, you don’t really have a business—you have a job.” — David JenynsIn this episode of the Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tip Series, host Nick Ruddle welcomes David Jenyns, systems expert and author of the bestselling book Systemology. David shares invaluable insights into how landscape business owners can systemise their operations to achieve efficiency, profitability, and, ultimately, freedom from being tied to the tools.Key Takeaways:1.Getting Off the Tools:•Start by systemising a single, primary product or service that generates income for the business.•Map out the customer journey from inquiry to repeat business, focusing on the most efficient steps.•Capture processes step-by-step to make them transferable and repeatable.2.Documenting Processes:•Adopt the “who, not how” mindset—empower team members or partners to help document systems.•Use tools like videos and checklists to record tasks and processes.•Leverage government grants to hire junior apprentices who can assist with documentation and process improvement.3.Leveraging Technology and AI:•AI can assist in scheduling, cost estimation, training, and customer interaction.•Tools like chatbots, QR codes, and AI-trained models can streamline operations and reduce errors.•Encourage younger team members to explore and implement tech solutions as they are often more familiar with modern tools.4.The Power of Systemisation:•Systemising processes can transform a business into a scalable and sellable asset.•David references Jim’s Mowing as an example of how systemisation can lead to franchising and massive success.5.Actionable First Steps:•Access David’s starter pack, including the Systemology book and training resources, to begin documenting processes.•Visit systemology.com/Nick for resources tailored to landscapers.Resources Mentioned:•Systemology by David Jenyns•Starter Pack: systemology.com/Nick•The E-Myth by Michael GerberConnect with David Jenyns:Website: SystemologyFinal Thoughts:Nick and David encourage landscapers to embrace systemisation as a necessary step to achieving the freedom and profitability they desire. Start small, stay consistent, and leverage available resources to systemise your business effectively. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Claire Belderbos from Chelsea award-winning Belderbos Landscapes shares essential strategies for landscaping business success. This episode explores the importance of thorough project planning, building resilience through challenging times, and setting SMART goals for long-term growth. Claire discusses attracting young talent through local school engagement and emphasises the value of mentorship, industry events, and continuous learning. Discover how structured planning and networking can transform your business approach and drive sustainable growth.In this episode, we unpack:(01:43) Planning pays dividends on every project(02:48) Building resilience for business challenges ahead(05:33) Setting SMART goals and clear milestones(09:10) Attracting talent through local school visits(13:17) Learning through bite-sized industry magazines(15:25) Using social media for visual inspirationLinks mentioned in this episode:Belderbos Landscapes Website: https://belderbos.co.uk/ Connect with 'The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series':Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Current BALI national chair Adrian Wickham shares essential leadership principles for growing landscaping businesses. This conversation explores the importance of listening, taking responsibility, and maintaining work-life balance whilst building sustainable operations. Adrian discusses attracting new talent to the industry, personal development strategies, and the critical responsibility business owners have towards their employees and their families' livelihoods.In this episode, we unpack:(00:00) Listen first: one mouth, two ears(02:05) Taking responsibility drives career growth  (03:12) Your decisions affect employee families(05:35) Showcasing diverse landscaping career paths(08:19) Sustainability attracts environmentally conscious talent(10:24) Networking and feedback fuel business growth(12:33) Health and well-being underpin everythingLinks mentioned in this episode:Adrian Wickham's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-wickham-mba-cemap-cbuae-847a1318/ Connect with 'The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series':Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

International award-winning garden designer Peter Donegan shares his business wisdom from decades in the landscaping industry. The conversation explores his three golden rules for client selection, the importance of placing value on design work even when doing charitable projects, and the power of building strong professional relationships. Peter also discusses attracting young talent to horticulture and keeping current through continuous learning, networking, and industry engagement.In this episode, we unpack:(01:48) Three golden rules for client selection(04:16) Placing value on design work matters(07:42) Surrounding yourself with the very best(11:02) Celebrating the 'freaks' attracts talent(19:50) Three ways to keep learning(21:46) Industry support through genuine connectionLinks mentioned in this episode:Peter Donegan's website: https://doneganlandscaping.com/ Connect with 'The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series':Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award-winning landscaper and expert witness Alan Sargent shares 56 years of industry wisdom in this compelling episode. Alan introduces his unique 'Scrabble board system' for tracking business connections, emphasises the importance of mastering British standards, and discusses building professional credibility through evidential knowledge. At 77 and still working six days a week, Alan also addresses recruitment challenges and advocates for collaborative industry efforts to attract young talent through school career programmes.In this episode, we unpack:(00:00) Evidential work and continuous learning requirements(02:06) Scrabble board system for tracking connections  (06:50) Building libraries of products and standards(11:46) School outreach for attracting young talent(13:18) Industry collaboration through trade associations(15:15) Expert witness work demands lifelong learningLinks mentioned in this episode:Alan Sargent's Website: https://alansargent.co.uk/ Connect with 'The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series':Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard Bickler from Arbour Landscape Solutions shares hard-earned wisdom from three decades in landscaping. This conversation focuses on the critical importance of documented processes, managing cash flow effectively, and leveraging team insights for business growth. Richard discusses practical strategies, including stage payments, setting boundaries with clients, and using weekly strategy meetings to stay ahead of industry trends.In this episode, we unpack:(00:00) Getting everything signed and documented properly(05:09) Setting boundaries to protect your time(07:25) Cash flow management and stage payments(09:28) Collaborative industry approach for new talent(11:53) Weekly strategy meetings with your teamLinks mentioned in this episode:Richard Bickler's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-bickler-11472915/ Connect with 'The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series':Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-series YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alistair Bayford of Frost Landscapes returns with three principles that separate thriving landscape businesses from the rest. He covers why your relationships with employees, suppliers and clients are your greatest asset, how innovation and technology can bridge the – not just quality of work – is what earns long-term trust.In this episode, we explore:(00:00) Why educated risks are the foundation of growth(00:22) Introduction and welcome back to Alistair Bayford(01:05) Building strong relationships with employees, suppliers and clients(03:28) Embracing innovation and technology to close the skills gap(05:32) Customer satisfaction – from first enquiry to long-term maintenance(08:14) Managing expectations in domestic vs commercial landscaping(10:07) Why the industry struggles to attract new talent — and what could change(13:48) How Alistair continues to grow as a business ownerLinks mentioned in this episode:Alistair Bayford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alistair-bayford-fli-74034738/ Frost Landscapes: https://www.frostslandscapes.co.uk/ Connect with ’The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award-winning garden designer Karen McClure shares her insights from years of experience leading a thriving landscaping business. The episode centres on recognising achievements, maintaining a positive mindset, and surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals to boost business performance. Karen McClure also discusses attracting new talent to the industry and the value of continuous learning through podcasts and teamwork. Discover practical strategies for business owners looking to elevate their own teams and personal growth.In this episode, we unpack:(00:00) Team alignment for better service(05:15) Podcasts that boost mood and mindset(08:04) Weekly team update email that works(10:41) Power of like-minded connections(13:15) Showcasing the industry through publicity(16:42) Sharing wisdom in bite-sized chunksLinks mentioned in this episode:Karen McClure’s Website: https://www.karenmcclure.co.uk/Connect with ’The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Grow Landscaper's 10 Minute Business Tip series, host Nick Ruddle is joined by Principal BALI award-winning garden designer Lucy Wilcox. Lucy shares insightful business tips drawn from her unique background in TV commercial production and garden design.Key points include the importance of embodying your brand to differentiate yourself, the crucial role of collaboration with clients and suppliers, and the value of trusting your gut instincts in decision-making.Lucy also discusses the potential of attracting more neurodiverse individuals to the landscaping industry and the significance of continuous learning and personal growth.In this episode, we unpack:(00:00) Introduction(01:00) Lucy's first business tip: be your brand(04:27) The importance of collaboration(07:30) Trusting your gut instinct(09:09) Attracting more people to the landscaping industry(12:05) Continuous learning and personal growth(13:31) Conclusion and final thoughtsLinks mentioned in this episode:Lucy’s Website: https://www.lucywillcoxgardendesign.com/Lucy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-willcox-84153276 Lucy’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucywillcox/ Connect with ’The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does long-term success look like in the UK landscaping game – and how do you build it? Lee Webster, the mind behind the award-winning Wright Landscapes, offers a deep dive into the qualities that set top companies apart.With a passion for people and a strategic eye for business, Lee shares proven ways to strengthen teams, bring new talent through the ranks, and manage the financial side with confidence. Joined by host Nick Ruddle, he explores how continuous learning and innovation keep landscapers at the top of their game.In this episode, we unpack:(01:09) Having a clear strategy(04:52) Business leadership and team structure(09:02) Understanding finance for small businesses(12:45) Landscaping beyond cutting grass(15:47) Avoiding costly mistakesLinks mentioned in this episode:Lee Webster on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-webster-28709b75/ Wright Landscapes: https://wrightlandscapes.co.uk/ Connect with ’The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ken White, formerly of Frost Landscapes, is a celebrated leader in the UK landscaping industry known for his entrepreneurial spirit and practical business insight. In this episode, Ken joins host Nick Ruddell to share three tips for running a successful landscaping business, from brand building to team leadership.Ken dives into his philosophy on loving business as much as landscaping, the importance of establishing a trusted brand, and how effective delegation can supercharge growth. Plus, he offers advice on attracting new talent and his personal approach to lifelong learning.In this episode, we explore:Falling in love with being a business personBuilding a brand that stands out and attractsThe power of being a "lazy" CEO and delegatingAttracting diverse talent to landscape businessesContinuous learning through mentors and networkingLinks mentioned in this episode:Ken White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenwhite2/ Connect with ’The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Ruddle chats with Kim Sones from Sones Accountancy Services, the specialist firm helping landscapers take control of their finances. Kim breaks down the three essentials every landscaping business owner needs to master: regularly reviewing profit and loss, building a strong cash reserve, and setting aside money for tax.She explains that financial confidence isn’t about being a “numbers person”; it’s about staying on top of the figures that drive your success. From managing VAT and payroll to planning for growth and attracting new talent, this short, practical episode will help you build a more profitable, resilient landscaping business.In this episode, we explore:How to regularly monitor and understand profit reportsThe importance of accurate bookkeeping and using accrualsBuilding and maintaining a cash reserve for stabilitySetting aside money for tax liabilities in advanceThe value of apprenticeships in growing your landscaping teamLinks mentioned in this episode:Kim Sones on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-sones-maat/Sones Accountancy Services: https://sonesaccountancy.co.uk/ Connect with ’The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paul Lynch, the Managing Director of Elm Tree Garden Contractors in Bristol, is a multi-award-winning business leader in the UK landscaping sector. In this episode, Paul shares his top business tips for landscapers, focusing on what it takes to build a successful, sustainable business in today's competitive market. He discusses the importance of looking after your people, the value of transparency, and why cash flow management is crucial. Paul also offers insight into attracting new talent to the industry and how he continues to grow and learn as a business owner.In this episode, we explore:Why staff retention is essential for business growthOpenness and honesty as pillars of company culturePractical strategies to manage and monitor cash flowMaking landscaping attractive to new industry talentNever stop learning and the power of industry networkingLinks mentioned in this episode:Paul Lynch on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-lynch-41807682/ Elmtree Garden: https://elmtreegarden.co.uk/ Connect with ’The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director of Caribbean Blinds, joins the show to share his insights on achieving business growth and success in the landscaping sector. Stuart discusses the power of setting clear goals, the importance of collaboration, and the modern methods needed to both recruit and retain the right talent. Learn how attitude outweighs skills when building a great team, and why showcasing the industry’s innovative side can attract the next generation. Packed with actionable tips, this episode is essential listening for any ambitious landscaping professional.In this episode, we unpack:The impact of writing down and sticking to goalsHow industry collaboration saves money and wins clientsWhy attitude beats skills in recruitment strategyShowcasing technology to attract new landscape talentLeveraging peer networks for ongoing business growthLinks mentioned in this episode:Stuart Dantzic on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuartdantzic/ Caribbean Blinds UK: https://www.cbsolarshading.co.uk/ Connect with ‘The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Cooke, the driving force behind Artisan Landscapes in Bristol, shares his proven strategies for business growth in the landscaping sector. Will unpacks the systems and mindsets that have helped his company stand out, from building robust processes early on to embracing challenging projects. With practical advice drawn from his own journey, Will discusses hiring, value-driven culture, and industry-wide opportunities. In this episode, we unpack:Implementing processes and systems for sustainable growthThe importance of hiring people better than yourselfEstablishing strong company values and core principlesRaising industry standards to attract new talentLearning and growth through calculated risk-takingLinks mentioned in this episode:Will Cooke on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-cooke-7b550a223/ Artisan Landscapes: https://artisanlandscapes.co.uk/ Connect with ’The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard Kay is the CEO of Rabbit Hill Park, the home for rural entrepreneurs, housed in a range of high-quality industrial warehouses and offices. In this episode, Richard shares his proven strategies for business growth, from crafting strong business plans to building a supportive company culture. He offers actionable tips on recruitment, consistency, and the importance of open communication in driving successful landscaping businesses. In this episode, we unpack:The power of robust business and marketing plansWhy consistency drives team performance and trustThe impact of effective, two-way communicationSuccessful recruitment through staff referrals and cultureStaying inspired with peer groups and mentorshipLinks mentioned in this episode:Richard Kay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-kay-green-tech/Rabbit Hill Park: https://www.rabbithillpark.co.uk/Connect with ’The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oliver Corkery is the Group CEO of The Corker Collective and Managing Director of Corker Outdoor Living. Despite being relatively young, Oliver has made significant strides in the landscaping industry with his relentless drive and passion. In this episode, Oliver discusses key strategies that helped him succeed and highlights the importance of mental and physical health. This conversation is a goldmine for aspiring and seasoned landscapers alike.In this episode, we explore:Analysing industry directionCollaborating with freelance designers for cost-efficiencyThe critical role of health in business successStaying operationally lean to maximise growthContinuous learning from failures and achievementsLinks mentioned in this episode:Oliver Corkery on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/oliver-corkery-3b4063180Oliver Corkery on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olivercorker/The Corker Collective: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-corker-collective/ Corker Outdoor Living: https://corker.co.uk/ Connect with ’The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Wyer, co-founder of Bowles & Wyer and Vice-Chair and Treasurer of the Society of Garden Designers, shares his insights on what drives a successful landscaping business. With a focus on client satisfaction, purpose-driven culture, and detail-oriented management, John reveals his top three tips that have propelled his company forward. Looking to elevate your business and inspire your team? This episode is for you.In this episode, we explore:Start with the client, not the competition.Defining your business purpose and culture.Importance of monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs).Collaborating industry-wide for storytelling and inspiration.Continually stay curious to foster growth and innovation.Links mentioned in this episode:John Wyer on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/john-wyer-38905a7 Bowles & Wyer: https://www.bowleswyer.co.uk/ Society of Garden Designers: https://www.sgd.org.uk/ Connect with ’The Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tips Podcast Series’:Acast: https://shows.acast.com/the-grow-landscapers-10-minute-business-tips-podcast-seriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrowlandscaperspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.