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 up
- Why apprenticeship pathways matter and how to bring young people into the industry well
- What Matt learned stepping from apprentice into a leadership role
- Why communication style matters when managing different personalities
- How better systems and apps have improved workflow, record keeping and team communication
- Why safety has to be non-negotiable on site
- The value of documenting time, workflow and variations properly
- How honest client communication helps avoid issues later
- Why drainage, excavation and planning are so critical to a successful outcome
- How machinery and technology are improving efficiency and reducing fatigue on-site
- Why mental health and asking for help matter in leadership roles
- What today’s landscaping businesses should be doing differently from day one
This episode is packed with practical insights for landscapers looking to build better teams, improve workflows, and create businesses set up to grow.
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Building Strong Teams with Dean Oliver & Matt Johnston | The Front Garden EP141
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