In this episode…

Our host, Chris Weiss, chats with brand strategist and founder of BRND, Samantha Tait, about how landscaping businesses can harness the power of brand to stand out in a crowded market.

Sam shares her journey from PE teacher to brand innovator, how storytelling outshines advertising, and why niching is more important than ever.

They explore simple but powerful strategies for landscaping businesses to strengthen their brand presence without needing big marketing budgets. These include using customer feedback, showcasing behind-the-scenes content, and leveraging AI tools correctly.

Plus, a sneak peek of what Sam will be covering at the LV Members' Breakfast at The Landscape Show!

Key Takeaways:

• Why "word of mouth" is great — but brand presence is what makes it stick.
• The importance of niche positioning and knowing your brand personality.
• Storytelling is the real secret to standing out and connecting with customers.
• Hyperlocal marketing, behind-the-scenes content, and authentic digital engagement are key trends for trades.
• How landscaping businesses can use AI without losing their human touch.
• Why customer feedback is your best untapped brand asset.
• Easy starting points for busy business owners to build brand momentum.

Want to see Sam live? She's joining us on stage at our exclusive LV Members' Breakfast before The Landscape Show. Visit thelandscapeshow.com.au for more information and tickets.

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👁️‍🗨️ About Samantha Tait

• Website: thinktanksocial.com.au
• Facebook: SamanthaJayneTait
• Instagram: @samanthatait_au
• LinkedIn: Samantha Tait, BRND Group, TTS Digital

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The Front Garden Podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Coolabah Turf. Visit Victoria’s premium instant turf supplier at coolturf.com.au

In this episode…

Host Chris Weiss chats with the 2024 Victorian Landscape Industry Awards Apprentices of the Year—Caitlin Sanderson (Horticulture, Parks & Gardens) and Jessica Whatnall (Landscape Construction)—about their unique journeys into the landscaping industry, their career aspirations, and the lessons they’ve learned on site and at TAFE.

From pushing barrows of concrete to designing planter boxes for public spaces, Caitlin and Jess share how they found their passion in landscaping, coming from different backgrounds but with a shared determination to grow.

In this inspiring episode, Caitlin and Jess open up about navigating the challenges of being women in a traditionally male-dominated trade, the value of supportive mentors, and how hands-on experience is shaping their future.

Key takeaways:

• The real value of apprenticeships: learning by doing (and sometimes failing)
• Why plant knowledge is just as powerful as power tools
• How the industry is becoming more inclusive and supportive for women
• The power of good advice, good teams, and giving things a go
• Insight into career progression in both council and private landscaping work

Whether you’re an apprentice, mentor, or industry leader, this episode is a reminder of why supporting the next generation matters—and what it looks like when young professionals thrive.

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👁️‍🗨️ About Caitlin Sanderson and Jessica Whatnall

- Website: Caitlin Sanderson Awards Profile – Landscaping Victoria

- Website: Jessica Whatnall Awards Profile – Landscaping Victoria

- LinkedIn: @Manningham Council and @Mark Gabell And Associates

Got a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message!

The Front Garden Podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Coolabah Turf. Visit Victoria’s premium instant turf supplier at coolturf.com.au

In this episode…

Chris Weiss is joined by Peter Shaw—founder and creative director of Ocean Road Landscaping and author of Soulscapes: Connecting Gardens to Landscapes, for an honest and insightful conversation about building a career, a business, and a life rooted in the coastal environment of Anglesea.

With over 30 years in the industry, Peter shares the evolution of Ocean Road Landscaping from a humble ute-based operation into a thriving design, construction, and maintenance business with nearly 30 staff.

He opens up about the importance of designing gardens that belong to their place, leading with values, and finding harmony between work and life.

From staff retention to cash flow forecasting, Peter offers practical advice for landscaping professionals looking to build a sustainable business.

Key takeaways:

• The value of creating gardens that are deeply connected to their environment
• How Peter and Simone grew Ocean Road Landscaping organically with a clear focus on values and community
• Why strong leadership and trusting your team are crucial for long-term business success
• Tips on setting sustainable hourly rates and maintaining financial forecasting
• The importance of listening to clients and building lasting relationships across design, construction, and maintenance
• The beauty and challenges of working in coastal and Otway landscapes
• Peter’s dream project, and what he might be doing if he weren’t landscaping

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👁️‍🗨️ About Peter Shaw

• Website: www.orl.com.au
• Ocean Road Landscaping Video Gallery
• Facebook: Ocean Road Landscaping
• Instagram @oceanroadlandscaping
• LinkedIn: Peter Shaw

Got a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message!

The Front Garden Podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Coolabah Turf. Visit Victoria’s premium instant turf supplier at coolturf.com.au