A Podcast where landscaper Joel Barnett of InStyle Gardens, chats with other people within the landscaping/green industry. We chat with Landscape designers, landscape builders, garden maintenance folks, nursery folks, and anyone else within this awesome industry!
In this episode I speak with BJ Wallace, from not only TBL Property Maintenance, but also host of the In To The Green podcast, and founder of the Lawn and Land Equip Expo.BJ has a unique story about how he started in the industry, and also talks about the reasoning behind starting the Expo, which raises funds for children's charities.He offers some advice about the best way to get the type of projects you want to work on, and also shares some ideas about how he'd like the expo to look in the future.The Lawn and Land Equip Expo is on at the Carribean Gardens on Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 10am-3pm, followed by the networking night at the Hyatt Hotel nearby. You can head to the website at llee.com.au to get info and tickets.You can follow BJ on his multiple Instagram pages @tblpropertymaintenance , @into_the_green_podcast , and @lawnandlandequipexpoIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Ryan and Corey Shalevski from Rycor Landscapes.Ryan and Corey are a couple of brothers from Melbourne in business together, and working on some quality projects and building the business as they do.They talk about how the business started, with just Ryan at the start before Corey joined, and they talk about their experiences in business, on The Block and at MIFGS.You can follow their business on Instagram @rycorlandscapesIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Kath Meier, who along with her husband Nigel, own Virtual Landscape Design and Hunter Landscaping Design + Construction. Nigel started the business 30 years ago, with Kath joining one year in, and they've gone from doing only fencing to start, to building up Hunter Landscaping and then in the past two years, starting Virtual Landscape Design as well.Kath shares how important her home landscaping is and also shares the various different team members working within the two businesses, including employees in Egypt, the Philippines and Bangladesh, and have sponsored employees on site from Zimbabwe, Scotland and England.Kath has used a business coach right from the start, and she talks about how valuable that's been.You can follow Kath on Instagram @hunterlandscapingdesign and @virtual_landscape_designIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Paul Hamilton from Insight Coaching, and formerly owner and founder of Hamilton Landscapes before handing the business over to one of his employees and starting the coaching business.Paul talks about his experiences in Landscaping and some of the talented people he came across along the way, and touches on the moment he decided he wanted out of the business, and how he came about to be a coach.You can follow Paul on Instagram @insight_business_coach or check out his brand new website at insightcoach.com.auIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Seam Lam from Saint Remy , a landscape design studio based in Melbourne.Seam had a great start in the industry, studying at Burnley and then getting her first job at Eckersley Garden Architecture.She makes some great points in this chat where she talks about the value of working with landscapers and learning from them as well.She also talks about her experience at the recent Landscape Conference which she attended.You can follow Seam on Instagram @saintremystudioIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Jackie Warburton from Terra Solarus. Jackie is a horticulturist, garden designer and columnist with the City News Canberra and is a super passionate person in the industry, so was a lot of fun to chat to.She has a great story about starting out maintaining a property in the early days of her career, and now recently being employed to re-design the garden to bring it back to it's former glory.She also has some great bits of advice in this episode about staying in your lane and doing what you do best, as well as the fact that if someone wants something that she doesn't like to provide, she's not the gardener for them.You can follow Jackie on Instagram @jackiemwarburtonIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Shaun Gerring from Pure Turf Lawns and Gardens, a lawn and garden maintenance business operated solely by Shaun in Geelong.Shaun has looked after about 7 of the projects we've built, so I can attest to the quality of work he does, and it was great to get him on to hear where his journey started.He talks about having to do work on Air Tasker in the early days until he had built up enough work to be more selective and start targeting the high end projects he wanted to work on.He received some great advice from a previous employer about pushing boundaries, and continues to do that today, while importantly communicating with his clients.You can follow Shaun on Instagram @pureturf_lawnsandgardensIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Amy Downie, a horticulturist at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne.I was excited to talk to Amy to learn about escarpment horticulture, which she's involved with, and it was as fascinating a chat as I had hoped!She recently presented at a Botanic Gardens Conference in Singapore about escarpment horticulture, and her passion for her job is infectious, so she was a joy to speak with.You can follow Amy on Instagram @amydownie_If you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Shannon Blackbourn from Panacea Landscapes, a landscaping and maintenance business based in Canberra. Shannon has been involved in gardens at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show the past three years, coming 1st and 3rd in the Balcony Garden competition the last two years.Shannon talks about how she's obtained some business/accounting advice recently to make sure she's on the right track, which I think is a great thing to do being only 4 years into running the business.We also talk about the places Shannon worked and studied prior to starting Panacea Landscapes, and a recurring theme I noticed is that Shannon still keeps in contact with many of the people she worked and studied with, which is awesome.You can follow Shannon on Instagram @panacealandsapeservicesIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Daniel Taylor from Taylor'd Waterscapes, a waterscape and landscape construction company based on the Sunshine Coast.Daniel initially started out working for several landscape companies before starting with Patrick from Waterscapes Australia and finding his passion in aquascaping, working with him for 4-5 years and then starting Taylor'd Waterscapes.Danie has been to the USA as part of his role as a CAC (Certified Aquascape Contractor) and also recenty spent time in Namibia working on what sounds like an insane water feature.You can follow Daniel on Instagram @taylord_waterscapesIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this special edition episode, I speak with 20 different people involved in designing and building the show gardens at the 2025 Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.It's a great episode to listen to to get a better understanding of the special meanings and inspiration behind some of the gardens, whether attending the show or not.0:00 - Intro3:16 - Trent Cornish - IMG10:28 - Rob Cooper - Distinctive Gardens16:53 - Matt York - Ratio24:09 - Brent Reid - Candeo31:44 - Ben Hutchison - Ben Hutchison Landscapes36:05 - Adam Hompas - Adam Hompas Landscapes39:52 - Paul Pritchard - Paul Pritchard Landscape Design44:19 - Jason Hodges - Buxus Balls of Berry50:04 - Scott Latham - Latham Landscapes55:51 - Aaron - Timeless Outdoors59:25 - Kaz Krasovskis - Kaz Krasovskis Landscape Design1:04:27 - Liam - EarthCore Landscapes1:06:59 - Jocelyn Bennett - EarthCore Landscapes1:10:05 - Carla Perry - Carla Perry Gardens1:15:42 - Riley - Lonepine Landscapes1:20:15 Grahame Rowe - Better Homes and Gardens1:26:36 - Jake - Go Landscaping1:29:44 - Ash Walker - Ash Walker Gardening1:32:21 - Bayley Luutomes - Bayley Luutomes Design1:37:46 - Mitch - Bespoke LandscapesIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Luke Smith, not only from Silverstone Gardening and the Australian Lawn and Garden Podcast, but he's also now the founder of Moqo App, an app for lawn mowing/maintenance contractors.We talk about the origin of the app and what it does, as well as talking about what he's up to with his maintenance business, and how his business course is going, now that it's almost been out for a year.You can follow Luke on Instagram @moqo_app , @theaustralianlawnandgardenpod and @silverstonegardeningIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Remi Willems, a gardener based in regional Victoria who spent 6 years working at Paul Bangay's Stonefields.Remi has a great story of his first gardening memory, and also has plenty of insights into the high end maintenance he's work in his whole career.He has great plans to coach people to do the same work he does, so it'll be great to following along with his career and see it take off.You can follow Remi on Instagram @remi_the_gardenerIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Mike Andes, founder of Augusta Lawn Care. Mike started his business early, and has grown it significantly, to now have 100+ franchises in North America, as well as one in Melbourne.Mike is big on systems within business, and also employs P4P in them, which is Pay for performance, where the employees receive a profit share based on performance.Mike also talks about the CoPilot CRM he uses for the business, and we also briefly touch on the future of robotic mowers.You can follow Mike on Instagram @themikeandesIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Rob Cooper from Distinctive Gardens. Rob is a landscape designer based in South Australia, and only recently stopped doing construction within his business.He's heading a South Australian team, alongside Yergan Landscape and Desert Flower Landscapes, to design and build a garden at this years MIFGS, so we talk plenty about that.We also talk about Rob's process of communicating with contractors who are going to build his projects so that both they, and the client win.You can follow Rob on Instagram @distinctivegardens_landscapingIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I answer some questions asked via Instagram.It's the shortest episode I've ever done, but we'll be back to regular episodes next week.If you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with two past guests in Paul Pritchard of Paul Pritchard Landscape Design (ep 69) and Adam Hompas from Adam Hompas Landscapes (ep 66).Paul and Adam are both based in Melbourne, and since being on the podcast in Spring of 2022, they've teamed up to design and build 2 show gardens in the Boutique Garden category at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, and are going back again this year to tackle a large show garden, so we talk about their plans for that, as well as what they've learnt from the two they've built.I also ask them both about how their businesses have been since being on the podcast, and follow up with them on questions answered in previous episodes.You can find Paul on Instagram @paulpritchardlandscapedesign and you can find Adam @adamhompaslandscapesIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I answer some questions asked via Instagram.I also make a major announcement towards the end of the episode!If you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Bridget Doyle from Bridget Doyle Landscape Design. Bridget is based in Northern Victoria, but was originally from the NSW Riverina so does a lot of work there, but works all around the neighbouring states.Bridget started out working for companies that design not only residential gardens, but also commercial ones including early learning centres and aged care facilities, so she had a varied start which she also now does within her business.She talks about the challenges of working in a home office and the isolation of being a solo designer.Bridget also talks about her own garden and how she selects plants which don't need any irrigation other than rainfall.You can follow Bridget on Instagram @bd_landscapedesignIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I answer some questions asked via Instagram.There were so many that there'll be another Q and A episode next week.If you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode, I use a program from Google called NotebookLM to make a podcast reviewing episodes which I uploaded from the previous 10 episodes.AI technology is phenomenal, but also has its flaws. The hosts (which are AI and don't actually exist) don't even mention three or four of the episodes I uploaded, even thought they seem to run out of content and repeat some of the same things four times.I did have a good laugh around 90 seconds in when they mention, without any prompting by me, a famous landscape designer!If you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Brendan Eccleston from Brisbane Landscaping Co, a design and construction company based in Brisbane.Brendan had a great variety of experience prior to starting his business, which included owning a franchise for a lawn maintenance business, where he didn't make as much money as he'd have liked, but did learn a lot for his future businesses, one of which included a short lived partnership with a mate.Brendan also discusses his back injury, and how he's able to take a positive out of a bad situation.You can follow Brendan on Instagram @brisbanelandscapingcoIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Andrew Christopher Dunne, and garden designer from Ireland who also has a mentorship/course called The Garden Design Mentor, which he created after getting great feedback on the advice he was offering on Instagram.In this episode he talks about how most people learn by doing, and the importance of putting yourself in your client's shoes, understanding their problems and doing more listening than talking.I also took away some advice from Andrew, particularly about dressing appropriately for design appointments, and going dressed as a garden designer, not as a landscaper.You can follow Andrew on Instagram @thegardendesignmentorYou can find out more information about his course at thegardendesignmentor.comIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Daniel O'Callaghan from Nature Build, a landscaping and water feature business based in Bendigo, Victoria. Daniel started out working in heavy timber construction, so does some beautiful timber work, and he also developed a lot of other skills from working around other skilled tradesmen.He discovered water features, so headed off to the US to learn from the best, and has honed his craft since. He talks about his experience of growing his business year on year before realising it wasn't what he wanted.And he has a great story about how he marketed the first water feature he built.You can follow Daniel on Instagram @naturebuild_instaIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Emma Sage from Sage Journal, an online magazine for the garden industry, sharing stunning projects, education, gardening tips and how to's, recipes and everything else you'd expect to find in a gardening magazine.Emma is based in Hawkes Bay in New Zealand and originally studied commercial law and marketing and has used her marketing knowledge to build the audience of the magazine.She makes some great points in this episode, such as the importance of building a great team. She's teamed up with some great writers and photographers and the results show in the work produced.You can follow Emma on Instagram @sage.journalIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Christian Douglas from Christian Douglas Design as well as The Back Yard Farm Company. Christian started out in the UK, studying design and having a business partnership which also designed gardens at the Chelsea Flower Show, before leaving this business and moving to California and starting the current businesses.He discovered a passion for permaculture, and started implementing some principles of it into the garden he and his team design, and has recently launched a book called The Food Forward Garden where he not only shows projects they've designed using these principles, but also gives advice about how everyone can do it.You can follow Christian on Instagram @christian_douglas_design or @thebackyardfarmcoYou can head to his website to learn more about and buy his bookIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Colleen Southwell from The Garden Curator. Colleen is a landscape designer and artist based in Orange, NSW.Colleen mentions that her artwork has taken over more of her time recently, and I was fascinated with how beautiful and unique her paper sculptures were, so we talk plenty about that and her piece which was sent to New York.Colleen also does garden design workshops and she talks about how she teaches people how to come up with their own design style rather than copying another designer.You can follow Colleen on Instagram @thegardencuratorIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Andrea Proctor of Andrea Proctor Landscapes, a design firm located in Melbourne.Andrea has an awesome story about how she got started in the industry and the importance of being proactive and persistent.She worked for Andrew Laidlaw for ten years after working with John Patrick for 5, and she has since worked on around 20 Botanic gardens and went out on her own in 2020.You can follow Andrea on Instagram @andreaproctorlandscapesIn the episode I did with Jim Fogarty, we discussed a Landscape Design course we're both a part of, and in some exciting news, there's a Landscaping Podcast discount code for the course!Use the coupon code: LANDSCAPINGPODCAST when paying in full and you'll save $400! You can head to ulleo.com/landscaping to see the talented people involved in the course, as well as to sign up or see the other courses they offer.You can follow Ulleo on Instagram @ulleoIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with the World Famous Ashley James from Ashley James Gardens.Ash was a guest on episode 13 where he spoke about his path into the industry, so I thought it was a great time to get him back on the podcast 3+ years later to see what he's been up to.We talk about his work writing for Home Beautiful magazine, his partnership with a real estate agency and the launch of his curated seed range with Meadow Flowers Australia.We also talk about Cass Hooke's garden event which we'll both be attending.You can find a link to the Garden Event raffle I speak about here, which raises money for kids cancer charity Country HopeYou can follow Ash on Instagram @ashley_james_gardensIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Andy Murray from Andy Murray Landscape Design, a landscape design business based in Melbourne.Andy had a unique path into the industry, starting out in childcare before studying permaculture design, studying further at Burnley and then working in horticulture for a couple of people. He then started a business partnership with one of those people he was working for and had the business for 12 years before going out on his own.Andy also had a love of music from an early age and he talks about the similarities of how a bad singer can ruin a well written song, compared to a bad landscaper can ruin a well designed garden.We also discuss the challenges of designing to a clients budget and the best ways to go about that.You can follow Andy on Instagram @andymurraylandscapedesignIn the episode I did with Jim Fogarty, we discussed a Landscape Design course we're both a part of, and in some exciting news, there's a Landscaping Podcast discount code for the course!Use the coupon code: LANDSCAPINGPODCAST when paying in full and you'll save $400! You can head to ulleo.com/landscaping to see the talented people involved in the course, as well as to sign up or see the other courses they offer.You can follow Ulleo on Instagram @ulleoIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Elissa Astorino of Elissa Astorino Garden Design. Elissa is based in Canada and currently a student, but graduating this month.She came out to Australia in March to help Peter Donegan with his MIFGS garden as well as designing and building her own garden in the Border Gardens competition.She has a great attitude towards learning, which is what has lead to her being in Australia and not only working at MIFGS, but also developing working relationships with Yards Landscapes and Semken Landscaping to the point that she's worked/working for them for a 3 month placement.I'm looking forward to following along with Elissa on her career in design.You can follow her on Instagram @elissa_astorinoIn the episode I did with Jim Fogarty, we discussed a Landscape Design course we're both a part of, and in some exciting news, there's a Landscaping Podcast discount code for the course!Use the coupon code: LANDSCAPINGPODCAST when paying in full and you'll save $400! You can head to ulleo.com/landscaping to see the talented people involved in the course, as well as to sign up or see the other courses they offer.You can follow Ulleo on Instagram @ulleoIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Jim Fogarty from Jim Fogarty Design, a landscape design company based in Melbourne.Jim has probably done more garden shows than any other Australian designer, winning more than 30 awards, including 16 Gold Medals including a Gold at both Chelsea and Hampton Court Flower Shows.Jim was also a student at Burnley, which has produced an incredible amount of talented people within the industry.He also does garden tours to Japan twice a year with ASA.Something Jim and I have in common is that we're both part of a new Landscape and Garden Design course run by Ulleo, along with some of the best designers in the country! I talk briefly about the course in the intro of the episode, and again with Jim around the 30+ minute mark.In some exciting news, there's a Landscaping Podcast discount code for the course!Use the coupon code: LANDSCAPINGPODCAST when paying in full and you'll save $400! You can head to ulleo.com/landscaping to see the talented people involved in the course, as well as to sign up or see the other courses they offer.You can follow Ulleo on Instagram @ulleo  You can follow Jim on Instagram @jimfogartydesignIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Josh Norman from Josh Norman Landscapes, a landscape design and construction company based in Melbourne.Josh has a great story about how he started out, firstly with his old man who was a bricklayer, but then he worked at multiple places including travelling to Darwin, Perth and the UK for work, before coming back to Melbourne and working for a couple of high end companies prior to starting his business.Josh also has a great story about how he started getting work for his business, by being proactive and contacting designers to get work, and then building on those relationships from there.You can follow Josh on Instagram @joshnormanlandscapesIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with the former owner of InStyle Gardens, Jack Bath.Jack is currently a project manager at Landscape Solutions based on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.It was fascinating chatting to Jack and hearing about his transition from business owner to employee and going from residential to commercial, as well as hearing about the pros and cons of having a business in two different states at the same time.I also loved him recalling a quote from Bruce Winstanley that the only time you make money on a project, is when you quote it.If you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Chris Hose from Chartwell Nurseries, a wholesale nursery based just outside of Geelong in Bannockburn.I absolutely loved chatting with Chris, not only because he's a plant nerd, but also because he's one of the nicest people in the industry.He's got a great story about his early life in the industry where he was working at a nursery while still at school, but decided to do extra plant study so that he'd have answers to questions when people asked him.Chris was one of the major supporters for our 2023 MIFGS garden and it was exciting to hear that he's teaming up with another designer for next year, and he spoke about how beneficial it is having this much notice, so he can grow things on and have options.You can follow Chris on Instagram @chartwell_nurseriesIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I answer some questions asked via Instagram.Normal interviews will resume next week.If you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Hayden from Vereya Gardening, a garden maintenance business mased in the Dandenong Ranges in Melbourne. Hayden has a great story about one of his first projects, working for someone who decided to post an ad for a gardener at the music college Hayden was studying at.He recently went to various gardens overseas for 7 weeks, so he talks about the challenges of running his business remotely for that period of time as well as the planning he put in place prior to leaving.He also has a great localised business model which he shares as well.You can follow Hayden on Instagram @vereyagardeningIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Mia Bueskens from Terravita Horticulture, a garden maintenance and installation company based in Melbourne and around Daylesford, where Mia grew up.She had a great start to the industry with multiple family members part of the industry, and she talks about how influential some workmates and employers were during her development prior to starting her own business, including where she worked for Lucas House and Garden and Jane Jones Landscapes.Mia also has a great message about the importance of charging professionally for a professional service.You can follow Mia on Instagram @terravita.horticultureIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Gareth Wilson from GK Wilson. Gareth is a highly decorated and respected landscaper in the UK and has built at least 30 show gardens, including multiple ones at Chelsea, and has won 11 gold medals as well as best in shows, best in category and best construction.Gareth is also an author, consultant, lecturer and awards judge, among other titles, so despite stepping back form landscaping, he's still just as busy.We talk about the importance of working as a team between landscapers and designers, and Gareth also explains why saying No can be one of the hardest things to master in landscaping.You can follow Gareth on Instagram @northern_landscaper_gareth_If you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Ashley O'Sullivan from InDepth Landscape Construction, a company based in Canberra. Ash is the operations manager there and has been for 3 months.Prior to moving to InDepth, Ashley originally worked for his father's business for 10 years and then worked in commercial landscaping for 8-9 years, so we talk about the pros and cons to both and how one can help the other.You can follow InDepth on Instagram @indepth_landscape_constructionIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Suzannah Kennett Lister from SKL Gardens, a landscape design business based in Melbourne.Suzannah originally started her working life in the Theatre space before studying landscape design when COVID closed down the arts world. Her mother is a successful landscape designer in South Australia, so Suzannah grew up around the industry, and she also works on projects with her mum as well as her Melbourne projects.I worked with Suzannah on the Wurundjeri Biik garden at this years MIFGS, so we discuss the origin and story behind that, as well as how amazing the plants were and the challenges of obtaining such a variety of indigenous stock in retail nurseries.You can follow Suzannah on Instagram @skl_gardensIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Sean Dowling from Bayon Gardens, a design and construction company based on the Mornington Peninsula in Melbourne.Sean has not only a unique story about the path he took to start in the industry at 27, but also about how he came up with the name Bayon Gardens.He also shares the different way he started the business, with 4-5 employees including zero apprentices to start off with.Sean also shares his story about the Japanese Garden Show build he did with Ross Uebergang where they took out a Silver medal.You can follow Sean on Instagram @bayongardensIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Chloe Foster from Foster Your Garden.Chloe is a horticulturist, writer, educator, designer and host of the 3CR Garden Show.She started in the industry straight out of school, working at PGA nurseries while studying, and talks about the benefits she's experienced from being involved with volunteer work within the industry and how it's benefited her as well.As well as getting a dream role at the Australian Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne, Chloe also worked at the Melbourne Zoo, and I found it absolutely fascinating hearing about the amount of horticultural work involved in keeping the zoo running.You can follow Chloe on Instagram @fosteryourgardenIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode, the 200th of The Landscaping Podcast, I speak with the first guest and inspiration behind starting the podcast 3+ years ago, Grahame Rowe from Better Homes and Gardens.Grahame talks about the amount of thought and work that goes into a segment on BHG Tv, which blows me away to think about, and he also talks about the 2 year break he had from working in the green industry where he went and worked in Real Estate, and why he did that.There's some great lessons to take away and laughs to be had from this chat with Grahame.You can follow him on Instagram @grahame.roweIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Zac Connell from Evergreen Gardens and Landscape Solutions, a landscape construction company based in Benalla in regional Victoria.Zac had a great start in the industry, starting at a nursery before starting his own business doing garden maintenance and then moving more towards construction and dabbling in design.We talk about the challenges of working in regional areas along with the positives, and Zac shares some of the ways he goes about training his staff.Zac is setting himself a challenge of posting on Instagram every day in July, starting on the day this episode is released!You can get FREE tickets to the Australian Lawn and Garden Podcast Live Event hereYou can find Zac on Instagram @evergreenglsolutionsIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Ash Walker from Ash Walker Gardening. Ash is a horticulturist, plantsman, designer, writer and traveller and we talk plenty about his amazing travels in this episode.Ash was a recipient of the Global Footprints Garden Scholarship which allowed him to travel to England and France in 2022 working at the Chelsea Flower Show for Kate Gould as well as at Monet's Garden in France, among other experiences.Ash is a great example of getting opportunities and not taking them for granted, but maximising the potential in these opportunities. He's made great contacts while travelling and will be heading back over to London to work for Kate Gould in the coming months, Visa pending.I'll be looking forward to following Ash on his gardening journey around the world and learning plenty from him along the way.You can follow Ash on Instagram @ashwalkergardening and you can find the webinar he did for the Hort Media Association hereIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Cass Hooke from Outback Gardens. Cass is a garden consultant and writer, writing for Graziher magazine.Cass started out in the industry while she was at school working for Robert Boyle before studying in Botany, working in veggie production nurseries and working in conservation for threatened species.Cass is holding a garden event at her property in October 2024 with guest speakers and workshops and a tour of her garden. Details are on a pinned post on her Instagram page.Cass also did a podcast for Graziher which was a great listen, and you can find it here for to listen on Spotify and listen here for apple musicYou can find Cass on Instagram @outbackgardensIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Luke Smith from The Australian Lawn and Garden Podcast about an exciting trip he's about to take where he's travelling around parts of Australia hosting events and live podcasts in various cities.Luke was a guest on episode 144 talking about how he started in the industry, but this episode is more focused on his trip, while also including some business tips as well.He'll be celebrating episode 100 of his podcast in Perth with an event on June 11 and then kicks off his tour in Adelaide at Adelaide Oval on July 2 Melbourne on July 9Canberra on July 13Sydney on July 16 or 17Hunter Valley on July 27Brisbane on a date to be confirmed but in August.You can get tickets to the podcast tour hereYou can follow Luke on Instagram @theaustralianlawnandgardenpod And you can sign up to Luke's course on how to build a successful Lawn and Garden business hereIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Patrick Handley from Waterscapes Australia. Patrick also started Aquascapes Australia, where he began importing the Aquascape Inc products from the US to use on his projects and sell to others, after he first used them while working in Canada.Patrick is the first person to win the Aquascape Artist of the Year outside of North America and also travelled over to the US to help build a pond for Shaq! Unfortunately there were so many other fascinating subjects to talk about, I didn't even get to asking Patrick about these two experiences!You can follow Patrick on Instagram @waterscapesaustraliaIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Ross Uebergang from Ross Uebergang Landscape.Ross is a designer and educator and is a joy to chat to! His episode is the perfect blend of education and entertainment I'm always looking for, and there are a couple of moments where he clicks into teacher mode, in between telling some amazing stories of his time travelling the world.Ross has a great message in the last 5 minutes, so if you don't listen to the whole episode, I encourage you to at the very least listen to that.You can follow Ross on Instagram @ross_uebergang_landscape , although he's not all that active on there!If you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel
In this episode I speak with Ben French from Yards Landscapes, a landscape design, construction and maintenance business based in Brisbane.Ben started early in the industry, working at a landscape supply yard while still at school, and then trialled different roles within landscaping to work out which ones he liked best.Yards was originally solely design and construction, but maintenance gradually took over and is now the majority of the business.Ben and a few of his team were in Melbourne recently helping Peter Donegan build his 2024 MIFGS garden, so we discussed what that experience was like, and Ben also talks about the benefits of working for successful people and how much can be learnt from them, regardless of what industry they're in.You can follow Ben on Instagram @yardslandscapesIf you're wanting to sign up to be on the mailing list for The Landscaping School, you can find the link here.You can follow along with the projects we're currently working on via our Instagram page@instyle_gardens@thelandscapingpodcastYou can view each episode on our YouTube channel