Explore every episode of the podcast Dig Deep
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ep.18 Backing the Next Generation: Why People Are Landscaping's Greatest Asset with Richard Gill from Origin Green-tech | 06 Aug 2026 | 00:14:04 | |
In this episode of Dig Deep, recorded live at FutureScape, Rosie Sayers speaks with Richard Gill, Sales Director at Origian Green-tech, about how the landscaping industry has changed over two decades - and why its people are its greatest asset. Richard joined Origian Green-tech as a junior sales rep at 21 and, 22 years later, leads the sales team as director. That journey gives him a rare, ground-level view of how far the sector has come: from landscaping being the first thing value-engineered out of a project, to sustainability, biodiversity net gain and urban greening moving to the top of the agenda. The conversation turns to the challenge every business in the sector knows well - finding and keeping skilled people. Richard is refreshingly honest about Origian Green-tech's approach: take a chance on young people, train them up, and back the ones with common sense, drive and a bit of passion. It's a warm, practical case for investing in the next generation rather than waiting for the perfect hire to appear. He also reflects on why green infrastructure is spreading out of London and into cities across the UK, what BALI membership brings to a supplier, and the message he'd give any 16 or 17-year-old unsure of their next step: look at what you could build. It's an open, optimistic conversation about people, progress and pride in the landscape profession. In this episode:
Key takeaways:
Links & Resources
Episode Partners: GoLandscape — inspiring and supporting the next generation of landscaping professionals — https://golandscape.co.uk/ STIHL UK — trusted tools for landscaping professionals — https://www.stihl.co.uk/ Dig Deep is a BALI production, engineered and produced by Blunt & Brave, with music sourced from Artlist. | |||
| Ep. 17 Why Landscaping Is Outperforming the Economy with Trevor Williams | 20 Jul 2026 | 00:18:43 | |
In this episode of Dig Deep, recorded remotely, Rosie Sayers speaks with economist and strategist Trevor Williams about the economic forces shaping the future of the UK landscaping industry - and why, against a sluggish national economy, landscaping is quietly outperforming. Fresh from his keynote at the BALI National Conference, Trevor explains why demand for green space is structural rather than a passing trend. From building regulations that now require outdoor space and oxygenation, to the deep, evolutionary link between nature and wellbeing, he sets out why people and businesses are willing to pay to bring the green environment into where we live and work. The conversation moves from the forces driving growth - climate policy, the housing shortage, and a lasting shift in how we value green space since the pandemic - to the very real pressures facing businesses today. Trevor is candid about razor-thin margins, a shrinking domestic workforce (with the UK fertility rate now around 1.42, well below the 2.1 replacement rate), and why "it's not going to be a walk in the park." He also offers practical, grounded advice for landscaping business owners over the next 12 months: protect your margins, pick the right contracts, embrace technology and innovation, and never underestimate the personal touch and the value of repeat business. It's a clear-eyed, genuinely useful conversation about growth, resilience, and why this is an industry whose time has come. In this episode:
Key takeaways:
Links & Resources
Episode Partners: GoLandscape - inspiring and supporting the next generation of landscaping professionals - https://golandscape.co.uk/ STIHL UK — trusted tools for landscaping professionals — https://www.stihl.co.uk/ Dig Deep is a BALI production, engineered and produced by Blunt & Brave, with music sourced from Artlist. | |||
| Ep. 16 Building a Landscaping Brand Young Talent Wants to Join | 06 Jul 2026 | 00:17:47 | |
In this episode of Dig Deep, we’re joined by Gareth Jones, Managing Director of NorthHort, to talk about building a premium landscaping brand and attracting the next generation into the industry. Gareth shares his journey from growing up working outdoors to creating a business focused on high-quality service, strong values and a clear identity. Based in Cheshire, NorthHort works across premium grounds maintenance, landscaping, wildflower, ecology and commercial projects, with a focus on creating outdoor spaces that clients and teams can be proud of. In this practical and honest conversation, Gareth explains why branding is about far more than how a business looks. From uniform and vehicles to team culture, progression routes and quality equipment, he explores how a strong company identity can help attract, motivate and retain great people. We also discuss recruitment, the importance of hiring for attitude and passion, and why clear career pathways matter if landscaping businesses want to keep talented people in the sector. Gareth also shares why he is optimistic about the future workforce, particularly young people who care deeply about sustainability, wildlife, technology and the environment. This episode is sponsored by GoLandscape and Stihl. | |||
| Ep. 15: The Spirit of Chelsea: Stories from the BALI Hive Garden | 08 Jun 2026 | 00:45:59 | |
Recorded live from the BALI Hive Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026, this special edition of Dig Deep explores the people, ideas and stories that make Chelsea so much more than a flower show. Throughout the week, Rosie Sayers spoke to designers, suppliers, innovators, industry leaders and even one of the Chelsea Pensioners whose home becomes the backdrop to the world's most famous gardening event. Together, these conversations reveal the themes shaping modern landscaping: collaboration, biodiversity, wellbeing, sustainability, public spaces and the powerful connection between people and nature. Guests include: • Catherine Barrett, Managing Director of Furnitubes, on creating public spaces that bring communities together and launching the new Hive furniture range. • Kate Miller, Managing Director of Natural Swimming Pools Ltd, on designing chemical-free swimming environments that work with nature rather than against it. • Roger Moore, Contracts Manager at Lindum Turf, on 40 years of innovation, the logistics behind Chelsea and the people who make it all happen. • Barry, a Chelsea Pensioner whose reflections on nature, community and getting your hands dirty provide a moving reminder of why outdoor spaces matter. From biodiversity and wellbeing to craftsmanship and collaboration, this episode captures the spirit of Chelsea through the voices of the people helping to shape the future of landscaping. Dig Deep is a BALI production, engineered and produced by Blunt & Brave. This episode was recorded live at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026 from the BALI Hive Garden. | |||
| Ep. 14 Inside Chelsea Build Week with Mark Gregory | 20 May 2026 | 00:22:57 | |
Inside Chelsea Build Week with Mark Gregory
What really happens behind the scenes at the world’s most famous flower show? In this episode of Dig Deep, recorded at the stunning Glasshouse Collective, Rosie Sayers sits down with legendary landscape contractor and RHS Chelsea veteran Mark Gregory to explore the pressure, creativity and precision behind Chelsea Build Week. With 36 years at Chelsea and more than 100 gardens to his name, Mark reflects on the evolution of the landscaping industry, the importance of collaboration between designers and contractors, and why sustainability must shape the future of garden design. The conversation also explores Mark’s latest venture, the Glasshouse Collective, a unique space designed to bring together landscapers, designers, architects and suppliers to share ideas, inspire innovation and support the next generation entering the industry. In this episode: • What really happens during Chelsea Build Week • Why attention to detail matters at the highest level • How landscaping is evolving towards more sustainable practices • The role of planning, collaboration and innovation in shaping future gardens • Why attracting young people into horticulture and landscaping matters more than ever 🎧 Find out more about BALI: BALI – British Association of Landscape Industries This episode of Dig Deep is proudly supported by: 🌿 GoLandscape Helping inspire the next generation of landscaping professionals through careers, training and apprenticeships.
Dig Deep is a BALI production, engineered and produced by Blunt & Brave | |||
| Ep. 13 The Final 5% | What Makes an Award-Winning Landscape? | 07 May 2026 | 00:19:47 | |
In this episode of Dig Deep, recorded at The Glasshouse Collective, Rosie Sayers speaks with John Malmo, Head Judge of the BALI National Landscape Awards, about what truly separates a good landscaping project from an outstanding one. Drawing on decades of experience judging some of the very best schemes in the country, John shares why excellence often comes down to “the final 5%” — the finer details, preparation, teamwork and discipline that elevate a project beyond the ordinary. The conversation explores how the BALI Awards judging process works behind the scenes, the most common mistakes contractors make when presenting schemes, and why attention to detail matters just as much as design and construction quality. John also reflects on how the landscaping industry has evolved over the past 50 years, from the transformational impact of Canary Wharf on public realm expectations to the rising standards seen across the UK today. This is an insightful discussion about professionalism, presentation, teamwork and the pursuit of excellence in landscaping. In this episode:
🎧 Listen to more episodes of Dig Deep: https://www.bali.org.uk/help-and-advice/dig-deep/ Supported by: 🌱 GoLandscape | |||
| Ep. 12 Building a Landscaping Business on People, Standards and Apprenticeships | 14 Apr 2026 | 00:21:35 | |
In this episode of Dig Deep, recorded live at FutureScape, Rosie Sayers speaks with Charles Blumlein, founder of Location Landscapes and a long-standing BALI member, about the people behind a successful landscaping business. Charles shares how he first got into horticulture, why he built his business around soft landscaping expertise, and what he has learned from years of training, mentoring and managing apprentices. The conversation explores the importance of attitude and character when hiring, the challenges and rewards of apprenticeships, and why attention to detail, trust and high standards are essential in private garden work. Charles also reflects on the value of BALI accreditation, the importance of referrals and collaboration across the industry, and how landscaping continues to evolve through better design, materials and technology. This is an honest and practical conversation about people, professionalism and what it really takes to build a strong landscaping business. Key Topics Covered
🌱 GoLandscape – inspiring the next generation of landscapers https://golandscape.co.uk/ 🧰 STIHL UK – trusted tools for landscaping professionals https://www.stihl.co.uk | |||
| Ep. 11 Making Biodiversity Net Gain Simple | BNG, Design and the Future of Landscaping | 14 Apr 2026 | 00:13:19 | |
In this episode of Dig Deep, recorded live at GroundsFest, Rosie Sayers speaks with Oliver Lewis CBE, founder and CEO of Joe’s Blooms, about one of the biggest changes affecting the landscaping industry today: Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). BNG requires developments to leave nature in a measurably better state than before — but for many in the industry, the process has felt complex, technical and, at times, overwhelming. Oliver explains what BNG really means in practice, why it has been challenging for designers and contractors, and how new tools are making the process faster, simpler and far more accessible. The conversation explores how landscapers can engage with BNG without getting lost in spreadsheets, how real-time design tools can transform the process, and why biodiversity should be seen as an opportunity rather than a barrier. Key Topics Covered
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| Ep. 10 What Excellence Looks Like in Landscaping | BALI Awards, Collaboration and the Future of the Industry | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:21:50 | |
What does excellence really look like in the landscaping industry? In this episode of Dig Deep, we sit down with Nick Coslett, long-time industry figure, BALI Awards judge and Chair of the BALI Chalk Fund, to explore how quality, collaboration and industry leadership shape the landscapes we create. Nick offers a rare behind-the-scenes insight into the BALI National Landscape Awards judging process. From visiting projects on site to meeting the designers, contractors and clients behind them, he explains why the best schemes are about far more than what appears in a submission form. We discuss why collaboration across the industry has become increasingly important, how award-winning projects are judged, and why taking the time to reflect on completed work matters in such a fast-moving sector. The conversation also explores the work of the BALI Chalk Fund, which supports students and colleges across the UK by funding training, competitions and vocational qualifications that help address the industry’s skills shortage. Nick also shares his perspective on the changing workforce in landscaping, the growing number of career changers entering the sector, and why landscaping offers a wide range of career paths — from horticulture and design to ecology and environmental management. It’s a thoughtful conversation about excellence, collaboration and the people shaping the future of landscaping. In this episode we discuss: • How the BALI Awards judging process works • Why collaboration is key to successful landscape projects • The story behind some standout award-winning schemes • How the BALI Chalk Fund supports students and colleges • Tackling skills shortages in the landscaping industry • Why landscaping offers diverse and rewarding careers Episode partners 🌱 GoLandscape – inspiring the next generation of landscapers https://golandscape.co.uk/ 🧰 STIHL UK – trusted tools for landscaping professionals https://www.stihl.co.uk/ Dig Deep is a podcast from the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI). | |||
| Ep. 9 - Roots, Robots & Revolution: How GroundsFest Is Reshaping the Landscaping Industry | 03 Mar 2026 | 00:19:39 | |
Recorded live at the BALI Awards, this episode of Dig Deep explores collaboration, community and the future of the landscaping industry. Luke is joined by Chris from Grounds Fest to discuss what makes the BALI Awards such a standout moment in the industry calendar, and how the partnership between BALI and Grounds Fest is helping to strengthen and grow the sector. Chris reflects on the deliberately inclusive, festival-style approach that sets Grounds Fest apart from traditional trade events, and why creating a welcoming, hands-on experience matters for attracting the next generation of professionals. The conversation also takes in the rapid rise of robotics and green technology, the ongoing recruitment challenge facing businesses across the industry, and why collaboration — not competition — is at the heart of what makes landscaping special. A wide-ranging, forward-looking conversation about what the industry needs right now, and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in 2026 and beyond. | |||
| Ep. 8 Two Journeys, One Industry. Young Landscapers on Finding Their Way | 18 Dec 2025 | 00:22:16 | |
Recorded live at Futurescape, this episode of Dig Deep puts the spotlight on the next generation of landscaping professionals and the very different routes that can lead to a successful career in the industry. Rosie is joined by Archie Matthews, winner of the 2025 BALI Student of the Year, and Ollie French, a young landscaper from Warwickshire. Archie shares how an apprenticeship, college training and competing in WorldSkills UK helped build his confidence, skills and ambition. Ollie offers a contrasting perspective, explaining how he “fell into” landscaping after school and learned his trade hands-on, on site. Together, their stories highlight the breadth of opportunities within landscaping, the value of practical learning, and why this industry can be a powerful alternative for those who don’t thrive in traditional academic settings. An honest, inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance and building a future beyond the classroom. | |||
| Ep. 7 Closing the Skills Gap. Apprenticeships, Bootcamps and the Future of Landscaping | 18 Dec 2025 | 00:12:29 | |
Recorded live at GroundsFest, this episode of Dig Deep tackles one of the biggest challenges facing the landscaping and horticulture sector. The widening skills gap. Rosie is joined by Pauline Clark, Business Relationship Manager at Capel Manor College, London’s leading environmental college, to explore how education providers and employers can work together to attract, train and retain new talent. From apprenticeships and work experience to outreach in schools, intensive bootcamps and employer forums, Pauline shares how Capel Manor is opening up career pathways for young people, career changers and those returning to work. She also offers practical advice for businesses considering taking on apprentices and explains what makes a successful match between learner and employer. A must-listen for landscaping businesses struggling to recruit, educators shaping future skills, and anyone passionate about building a stronger, more resilient industry. | |||
| Ep. 6. Building Skills and Careers in Landscaping with Jonathan Petit from GoLandscape | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:16:37 | |
In this episode of Dig Deep, recorded live at GroundsFest, host Rosie Sayers talks with Jonathan Petit, Head of Skills, Careers, and Certification at GoLandscape – the BALI initiative dedicated to promoting careers in landscaping. Together, they explore how GoLandscape is tackling the industry's biggest challenge: the skills gap. Jonathan shares how GoLandscape is:
You'll also hear why the industry needs to dispel misconceptions about what landscaping really involves – from engineering and HR roles to accountancy – and why Britain is considered the "landscaping king of the world." Key takeaways
Episode sponsors This episode is supported by:
Links mentioned | |||
| Ep. 5. Developing the Next Generation: Education, Apprenticeships, and Industry Partnerships at Merrist Wood College | 28 Oct 2025 | 00:23:10 | |
In this episode of Dig Deep, recorded live at GroundsFest, host Rosie Sayers talks with Merrist Wood College, part of the Activate Learning Group. Together they explore how education and industry collaboration are shaping the future of landscaping and horticulture. Richard shares how Merrist Wood is:
You’ll also hear inspiring examples of how learners are finding success in the industry, from national award wins to returning as alumni mentors helping to inspire the next generation. Key takeaways
This episode is supported by:
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| Ep. 4. Inside BALI with CEO Wayne Grills | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:20:22 | |
Rosie Sayers sits down with BALI Chief Executive Wayne Grills to unpack BALI’s purpose, his route into the sector, and what’s next. Hear the priorities shaping the strategy to 2027: stronger member engagement, skills and education, policy and public affairs, and sharper communications. Wayne covers tackling labour shortages through GoLandscape and ex-offender pathways, the value of the BALI Awards, practical member benefits including toolkits, regional networks, helplines, and training, plus how BALI stays relevant in a fast-moving market. | |||
| Ep. 3 Disputes Made Simple: How the Ombudsman Supports BALI Members | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:20:33 | |
Disputes Made Simple: How the Ombudsman Supports BALI Members When things go wrong on a landscaping project, how can you resolve disputes fairly and fast? In this episode, Rosie Sayers talks with Richard Griffin from the Dispute Resolution Ombudsman about how DRO protects both businesses and customers, what evidence is needed, and why clear communication prevents most disputes. Learn how BALI’s partnership with DRO builds trust, saves time, and supports members with expert advice and training. | |||
| Ep 2. Speaking Up for Landscaping: How BALI’s Amy Cobbett Is Taking Members’ Voices to Government | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:20:38 | |
In this episode of Dig Deep, Rosie Sayers sits down with Amy Cobbett, BALI’s new Head of Policy and Public Affairs, to explore how BALI is working to ensure the landscaping sector has a seat at the table when decisions are made in Westminster. With a background in environmental economics and nearly a decade at the National Farmers Union, Amy brings a sharp understanding of how to bridge the gap between government policy and real-world impact. She shares her vision for raising the profile of the sector — turning landscaping from a “quiet hero” into a loud one — and explains how BALI is translating members’ day-to-day challenges into meaningful political influence. From housing and sustainability to skills and water policy, this episode is a deep dive into why advocacy matters, how members can get involved, and what success looks like when government starts calling us for answers. “Policy isn’t paperwork — it’s what shapes your business.” | |||
| Ep. 1: Building a Career in Landscaping: Insights from Will Innes-Taylor from Hilliers | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:19:09 | |
In this episode of Dig Deep, Rosie Sayers, Head of Marketing and Communications at BALI, is joined by Will Innes-Taylor, a passionate landscape professional with a remarkable journey through the industry. In this interview, Will shares his extensive experience as a BALI member, starting from his time at university to his current role with Hillier Nurseries. Will discusses the value of BALI membership, including the mentorship and network it offers, and the impact it has had on his career. He highlights the importance of attending regional events, connecting with industry peers, and getting involved in the many opportunities BALI provides, including the Quest support program and national awards. Will also shares his perspective on the shortage of talent in the landscaping sector and offers advice to those new to the industry. As a BALI ambassador, Will actively promotes landscaping careers to young people and encourages them to get involved with the land-based sector. His role in career events and school outreach showcases the diverse and rewarding opportunities available in landscaping, from hard landscaping to horticulture, and beyond. Tune in for insightful advice on how to navigate the landscaping industry, the benefits of joining professional networks, and why a career in landscaping can offer a great quality of life. Whether you're just starting out or considering a career change, this episode is packed with valuable tips and inspiration. Don’t forget to subscribe to Dig Deep for more conversations with industry leaders and experts shaping the future of landscaping. | |||