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The Front GardenAuthor: Landscaping Victoria
Landscaping Victoria brings you the latest in landscaping news, trends, and ideas by sharing some stories from people within the industry to help make your landscaping career a little easier. Language: en-au Genres: Business, Home & Garden, Leisure Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Building Strong Teams with Dean Oliver & Matt Johnston | The Front Garden EP141
Episode 141
Wednesday, 15 April, 2026
Dean Oliver and Matt Johnston from Can Do Landscapes chat with Adam Hompas about leadership, apprenticeships, communication, and the systems that help landscaping businesses run well on-site and behind the scenes.In this episode…What does it take to build a strong landscaping team, create systems that work on site, and step confidently into leadership?In this episode of The Front Garden podcast, our host, Adam Hompas, chats with Dean Oliver and Matt Johnston from Can Do Landscapes about business growth, training apprentices, on-site communication, and the realities of running efficient, high-performing landscape projects.Dean shares how he found his way into landscaping after realising a career in property development was not for him, and how Can Do Landscapes grew from humble beginnings in a small apartment storage cage into a well-structured business with clear roles, reliable systems, and a strong team culture. Matt reflects on his journey from apprentice to second-in-charge and the lessons that came with stepping up, taking ownership, and learning to lead others.Together, they unpack how strong communication, clear expectations and the right technology can make day-to-day operations smoother, from site management and team coordination through to documentation, quoting and client communication. They also talk openly about safety, mental health, the importance of adapting your leadership style, and why good systems are just as important as good workmanship.Key takeaways from this episode:How Dean built Can Do Landscapes from the ground upWhy apprenticeship pathways matter and how to bring young people into the industry wellWhat Matt learned stepping from apprentice into a leadership roleWhy communication style matters when managing different personalitiesHow better systems and apps have improved workflow, record keeping and team communicationWhy safety has to be non-negotiable on siteThe value of documenting time, workflow and variations properlyHow honest client communication helps avoid issues laterWhy drainage, excavation and planning are so critical to a successful outcomeHow machinery and technology are improving efficiency and reducing fatigue on-siteWhy mental health and asking for help matter in leadership rolesWhat today’s landscaping businesses should be doing differently from day oneThis episode is packed with practical insights for landscapers looking to build better teams, improve workflows, and create businesses set up to grow. 🔔 Follow The Front Garden so you don’t miss any future episodes. 👁️🗨️ About Can Do LandscapesWebsite: www.can-do-landscapes.comFacebook: Can Do LandscapesInstagram: @candolandscapesGot a suggestion for an episode of The Front Garden? Send us a text message!Specifically designed for DIY Gardeners and Landscapers around the world. Designed with simple installation in mind, including; pre-drilled & prepared for assembly, no training or experience necessary. Straightcurve is surprisingly affordable compared to the alternatives, find your closest dealer here.The Front Garden podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Straightcurve, providers of premium steel edging solutions.Visit Straightcurve to learn more at https://straightcurve.com/au/
