Dig Deep

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 How Charles got started in horticulture and landscaping Why Location Landscapes was built around soft landscaping expertise What Charles looks for when hiring apprentices and team members The biggest lessons from mentoring young people in the business Why character and attitude matter as much as technical skill The value of BALI membership and accreditation How collaboration and trusted referrals strengthen the industry How landscaping is evolving through design, materials and technology Key Takeaways Strong landscaping businesses are built on people first Attitude, character and attention to detail are critical when hiring Apprenticeships can be hugely rewarding, but they require time, patience and careful judgement Accreditation matters because it helps maintain trust and standards across the industry Collaboration and professional networks help raise quality for everyone Links & Resources Dig Deep Podcast: https://www.bali.org.uk/help-and-advice/dig-deep/ BALI: https://www.bali.org.uk/ GoLandscape: https://golandscape.co.uk/ Location Landscapes - https://www.locationlandscapes.com/ 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                            

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 What Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) actually means Why BNG can feel complex and difficult to implement How digital tools can simplify biodiversity calculations Real-world examples of BNG applied to live projects The role of landscapers in delivering biodiversity outcomes How BNG is evolving in the UK and globally Why biodiversity should be integrated into design thinking Key Takeaways BNG doesn’t have to be complicated — the right tools can make it intuitive and fast Landscapers are already leading the way in biodiversity — BNG simply quantifies that work Technology can remove barriers and allow designers to focus on creativity BNG is here to stay and is likely to expand across sectors and internationally Links & Resources Joe’s Blooms: https://joesblooms.com Dig Deep Podcast: https://www.bali.org.uk/help-and-advice/dig-deep/ BALI: https://www.bali.org.uk/

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).

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.            

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.

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.

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: Engaging with 22,000 young people annually at large-scale events like Big Bang to showcase the diversity of careers in landscaping Connecting employers with land-based colleges to ensure students are job-ready with the right skills Supporting career changers, ex-military personnel, refugees, and underrepresented communities to enter the sector Building a network of 60+ ambassadors who visit schools and colleges to share their industry experiences Offering free student membership to help young people access support and employment opportunities 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 The landscaping sector faces significant skills shortages, made worse by Brexit and misconceptions about the industry. Employers must engage with colleges to shape training programmes and secure the talent pipeline. Going to large events where thousands of young people gather is more effective than visiting schools one by one. The industry needs to improve diversity and show that "you can't be what you can't see." Anyone can become a GoLandscape ambassador – doing as much or as little as they feel comfortable with. Episode sponsors This episode is supported by: GoLandscape – Inspiring the next generation to build a career in landscaping. Stihl – Trusted tools that work as hard as you do. Links mentioned golandscape.co.uk

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: Investing £22 million in new facilities including glasshouses, laboratories and workshops Supporting learners through a full pathway of study programmes, T Levels, and apprenticeships Working closely with employers to ensure apprenticeships meet real-world industry needs Partnering with BALI and the BALI Chalk Fund to give students access to additional training, vocational qualifications and employment opportunities Encouraging career changers and lifelong learners through flexible part-time and adult courses 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 Collaboration between education providers and employers is essential to address skills shortages. Apprenticeships work best as a three-way partnership between the college, the student, and the employer. Industry-backed initiatives like the BALI Chalk Fund and Go Landscape make a real difference in developing employable, safety-conscious graduates. It’s never too late to join the land-based sector- adult learners and career changers are thriving in horticulture and landscaping. Episode sponsors This episode is supported by: Go Landscape – Inspiring the next generation to build a career in landscaping. STIHL UK – Trusted tools that work as hard as you do. Links mentioned BALI – British Association of Landscape Industries BALI Chalk Fund Merrist Wood College – Activate Learning Go Landscape STIHL UK

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. 🔗 bali.org.uk

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. 🔗 bali.org.uk 🔗 https://www.disputeresolutionombudsman.org/

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.”

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.