The Limitless Landscapers Podcast

This week’s episode is about making big decisions in small businesses.

First, a quick update on Aura Landscapes, the business I run with my husband, Mike. We've been doing this for 14 years now, and, as many of you know, it’s been quite a journey. Recently, we've added a skilled landscaper and a new in-house garden designer, also named Mike. We've also taken on a couple of apprentices.

However, not all changes have gone smoothly. We hired another team member who didn't stay long, so Mike had to pick up the extra work. This meant he was working full-time on the tools and often away from home, which affected family time and left him very tired.

It all came to a head recently when Mike said he was fed up with the lack of time to work on the business, spend time with the family, or enjoy his personal interests. He was thinking about cancelling a long-term contract to free up his time. This contract has been a reliable source of income, so his suggestion was quite serious. I advised him to consider all options before making such a big decision.

We thought about different solutions, such as rescheduling jobs to allow for more breaks, sharing work among team members, and focusing on closer projects to reduce travel time. It was important to look at all these options rather than make a quick decision.

We've noticed that growth in our business tends to follow a cycle. It’s like a rollercoaster, both in terms of success and the personal toll it takes. These cycles repeat, often bringing the same challenges until we address the root problems. For us, many of these challenges relate to systems and processes.

We’re currently working with Nicola De Piazzi, a systemologist, to put effective systems and processes in place. The goal is to separate ourselves from daily operations, allowing the business to run smoothly without our constant involvement. This shift will enable us to focus more on planning and strategy, which is essential for long-term growth.

We've also learned from past experiences, like our recent attempt to expand our hard landscaping teams. We quickly realised that adding more teams wasn’t the right move at the time. Instead, we decided to focus on improving our current teams and possibly expanding our soft landscaping team, where we see more potential for manageable growth.

HR and health and safety have also been areas of focus. Outsourcing these aspects to Annmaree has made our hiring process easier and ensured compliance, making growth more manageable.

One of my favourite recent initiatives has been setting KPIs and closely monitoring our numbers. This approach has provided valuable insights into how we can increase efficiency and profitability. Our new garden designer, Mike, has also contributed fresh ideas for improving our systems and processes.

Lastly, I encourage all of you to think about your role within your business and how you can delegate tasks you dislike. This delegation can revive your passion and free up time for strategic planning. Whether you love site visits, like one of my clients, or prefer project management, like my husband, it’s about structuring your business to suit your strengths and interests.

Remember, being a small business owner is incredibly rewarding despite the challenges. You have the power to create the life you want, make impactful decisions quickly, and adapt as needed.

The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: [email protected]

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

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Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

For this week's episode, I want to talk about something that hit me during my recent check-in with my personal trainer. It’s something I think is incredibly relevant to both my coaching clients and anyone out there working with a coach.

As many of you know, I’m an aspiring bodybuilder, and that means I have to follow a strict plan laid out by my trainer. Each week, I complete a check-in form that asks about my week, my achievements, struggles, what I’m grateful for, what I need to work on, and if I need any help. I’m always 100% honest because I know that honesty is very important for achieving my goals. Alongside this, I take progress photos and compare them week by week before sending everything to my coach.

After I submit my check-in, my coach sends me feedback via a Loom video. She tweaks my plan, offers advice, and sets new tasks. This week, I’m actually having an in-person check-in with her, which is even more beneficial. We can tweak exercises and poses in real-time and have a thorough discussion about my progress.

Why Check-Ins Are Essential

The reason I’m sharing this process is because it’s something I also stress with my coaching clients. Many people sign up for coaching but fail to check in regularly. I always prompt my clients, asking about their progress and any issues they might be facing. Regular check-ins are vital for accountability. Without them, there’s no one to hold you accountable, which can lead to stagnation.

For my clients who do check in regularly, I provide quick responses and the support they need, whether it’s an extra call, templates, assistance with writing, or links to useful resources. I’m also there to celebrate their wins or give them a push when needed.

The Impact of Skipping Check-Ins

If you don’t check in with your coach, you’re doing yourself a disservice. Regular check-ins allow you to have honest conversations, receive necessary feedback, and make crucial adjustments. For example, my recent check-in led to my coach removing 30 minutes of cardio from my plan because I’m making good progress. If I hadn’t checked in, I would’ve continued with an unnecessary and exhausting routine.

Applying This to Your Business

This principle applies to business coaching as well. Regular check-ins help you stay on track and ensure you’re supported properly. It allows your coach to provide timely feedback and make necessary adjustments to your plan. Between our monthly coaching sessions, it’s up to you to reach out and keep the momentum going. Without regular updates, you might not make the progress you want or feel supported.

So, here’s my challenge to you: if you have a coach, check in regularly. Be open and honest about your struggles and successes. Ask for the help you need and engage actively with your coach. If you’re my client, expect a new check-in protocol every week because I believe it will enhance your coaching experience and help you achieve your goals faster. Take full advantage of the support and guidance available to you. Your future self will thank you for it.

The Landscaper’sCoach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381800 102

Email: [email protected]

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

In my latest podcast episode, I open up about a topic many of us tend to avoid: mental health. I share my own experiences with anxiety, panic attacks, and postnatal depression because I believe it's essential to shed light on these sensitive subjects. It's something that's close to my heart, having faced challenges in my own life and within my team.

My journey with mental health began when I was a sales manager, feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to hit targets. The stress led to anxiety and panic attacks, making me feel like I was having a heart attack. Despite loving my job, the constant pressure took its toll on my mental well-being.

I found myself struggling again after giving birth to my children, experiencing postnatal depression. I felt a deep rage and resentment, even towards my loved ones. It was a difficult time, juggling motherhood, renovations, and business responsibilities while battling my own mental health issues.

Seeking help was crucial for me. I attended counselling sessions and, at times, relied on antidepressants. While medication provided temporary relief, it was counselling that truly helped me understand and manage my thoughts and feelings in the long term.

Through my journey, I've learned the importance of self-care and prioritising mental health. I now make time for activities that bring me joy and reduce stress, like going to the gym and spending time with loved ones. It's about finding balance and not letting work consume every aspect of my life.

As a mental health first aider, I'm committed to supporting others who may be struggling. Whether it's offering resources or simply lending an empathetic ear, I believe in creating a supportive environment where people feel safe to talk about their mental health.

It's clear that mental health issues are prevalent, especially in the wake of the pandemic. By speaking openly and honestly about my experiences, I hope to encourage others to seek help and prioritise their well-being. Remember, you're not alone, and there are resources and support available to help you through tough times.

So, if you're struggling with your mental health, don't hesitate to reach out for help. You deserve to live a life that's not overshadowed by anxiety or depression. Let's work together to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and create a world where everyone feels supported and understood.

The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: [email protected]

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Limitless Landscapers podcast. Today, we're talking about business performance management and setting standards.

Now, onto the real talk. I recently had a pow-wow with my amazing admin assistant, Annmaree, who's been an absolute game-changer in my business. Having her onboard has lightened my load and allowed us to focus on fine-tuning our operations. One big focus? Monitoring financial performance and setting clear targets.

So, why all the fuss about KPIs? Well, let me break it down for you. We're talking cold, hard cash, people! Sales, profits, the whole shebang. Because let's face it, if you're not making moolah, your business ain't gonna last long. And that's where KPIs come in handy – they give you a bird's eye view of your financial performance, so you can course-correct before it's too late.

Now, let me hit you with a real-life example. We're crunching numbers, looking at job costs and BAM! We uncover a sneaky little problem – turns out, our job estimates were way off because we forgot to factor in the logistics. That's the beauty of KPIs – they shine a spotlight on areas that need a bit of TLC, so you can tighten up your game and keep those profits rolling in.

But wait, there's more! Let's rewind to my days as a sales manager. Picture me, rallying the troops, hitting targets left, right, and centre. How did we do it? You guessed it – KPIs! Clear goals, regular check-ins, and a sprinkle of tough love when needed. It's all about keeping your team on their toes and making sure everyone's pulling their weight.

Now, I know what you're thinking – managing performance can be a bit daunting, right? Especially in the wild world of landscaping, where skilled staff are as rare as a sunny day in December. With a solid set of KPIs in your toolkit, you'll be steering your business towards success faster than you can say "green thumb".

So, here's the bottom line: whether you're a one-person operation or a full-blown landscaping empire, KPIs are your secret weapon for smashing goals, boosting profits, and building a business that's as strong as an oak tree. So go ahead, embrace the power of KPIs, and watch your business bloom like never before!

The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: [email protected]

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

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Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

For this week's episode, I'm buzzing with energy after hosting a fantastic webinar, and I can't wait to share all the juicy details with you!

So, picture this: Kendall from Builder Story and I teamed up for this webinar, and did we have a blast! Despite the time zone difference (shoutout to Australia!), we nailed it. I didn't stress about the numbers this time. Nope, we focused on deadlines and clear communication, which made everything run like a well-oiled machine. Lesson learned: Clear instructions and deadlines are the secret sauce!

But here's the real kicker: passion was the driving force behind this webinar. When you're passionate about what you're talking about, the nerves fade away. It's like magic! And let me tell you, engaging with passionate folks during the webinar was a game-changer.

Now, let's talk about quality versus quantity. We had a smaller group, but they were super engaged, asking loads of questions. It made the whole experience top-notch. So, if you're wondering how to make your webinars stand out, stick around for some pro tips!

Oh, and speaking of pro tips, let's talk about the importance of owning up to mistakes. Yep, we had a little technical hiccup with the webinar link, but we sorted it out pronto. No drama, just a quick apology and solution. It's all about keeping things real and transparent.

But wait, there's more! Communication is key. Whether it's with clients or team members, picking up the phone and sorting things out can save you a world of trouble. Trust me, I've been there!

Now, here's the exciting part: what will you learn from this episode? Well, buckle up because we're discussing:

-The power of passion in driving successful webinars.

-The importance of quality engagement over quantity.

-Pro tips for navigating technical hiccups with grace.

-The value of transparent communication in business.

So, if you're ready to take your landscaping game to the next level, grab a cuppa and tune in because this episode is packed with actionable insights that you won't want to miss! Keep those emails coming!

The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: [email protected]

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

In this podcast episode, I talk about my recent experience getting back to work after the Easter break. Yep, I'll be the first to admit it - I didn't get as much done as I'd hoped over the holidays, and it's left me with a hefty to-do list staring me down.

Now, I know I'm not alone in this boat. In fact, I've chatted with some of you who are in the same boat - feeling a bit guilty about not being as productive as we'd planned. But here's the thing: it's totally okay. We all need a break now and then, and sometimes life throws us a curveball that disrupts our plans.

But now that we're back in the swing of things, it can feel overwhelming trying to catch up on all that missed work. I mean, I've got cash flow forecasting hanging over my head like a dark cloud, and it's not exactly a fun task to tackle. Plus, there's the usual juggling act of running a business while managing family life - anyone else feel like there just aren't enough hours in the day?

But here's the good news: we're resilient bunch, us business owners. We know how to roll with the punches and come out swinging. And while it's easy to get bogged down in negativity when we're feeling overwhelmed, there are ways to snap out of it.

For me, I've found that tuning into some inspiring podcasts or speakers can really lift my spirits. Bob Proctor's talks on manifestation? Pure gold. And let's not forget the power of gratitude - taking a few minutes each day to jot down what I'm thankful for helps keep me grounded and focused on the positives.

But perhaps the biggest hurdle we face when we're feeling overwhelmed is fear. Fear of those daunting tasks that seem insurmountable. Fear of failure. Fear of the unknown. Sound familiar? Trust me, I've been there too.

But here's the secret: once you muster up the courage to tackle those fears head-on, you'll often find they're not as scary as they seemed. It's all about breaking things down into manageable chunks and taking that first step forward.

So, that's my plan for the week ahead: facing those fears and tackling one tough task at a time. And if you're feeling overwhelmed too, just know that you're not alone.Whether you're a fellow landscaper, a busy parent, or just someone trying to find their balance, there's something in this episode for you. So grab a cuppa, settle in, and let's have a chat about life, work, and everything in between!

The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: [email protected]

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

In this podcast, I talk about how important it is to stay motivated and disciplined when chasing your goals, whether it's in business or personal life. I've been thinking a lot about this, especially as I'm working towards my first bodybuilding competition, which needs a lot of both motivation and discipline.

Let's start with motivation. It's what gets us going, that spark of excitement and passion for what we want to achieve. For me, it's about setting goals and working towards them, like when I was in sales or now, running my landscaping business.

But here's the thing about motivation – it can come and go. Sometimes we feel super excited, and other times we're not so sure. That's where discipline comes in. Discipline is about sticking to your plans and doing what needs to be done, even when you don't feel like it.

I believe discipline is even more important than motivation because it keeps us on track when things get tough. While motivation helps us set goals, discipline helps us actually reach them by sticking to our routines and plans, no matter what.

Right now, I'm preparing for my bodybuilding competition. I'm really motivated to do well, but it's my discipline that keeps me following my strict diet and training schedule every day. To keep my motivation up, I use techniques like setting goals, imagining myself succeeding, and celebrating small wins along the way. These things help me stay focused and excited about what I'm doing.

To stay disciplined, I create routines, control my impulses (like not eating too much chocolate!), and set deadlines for myself. This keeps me accountable and helps me keep moving forward, even when I don't feel like it.

Looking ahead, I'm excited to announce a webinar I'm hosting with Kendall from Builder Story. We'll be sharing tips on how to build a successful landscaping business, combining my knowledge of business systems with Kendall's expertise in online marketing.

In conclusion, staying motivated and disciplined is really important for reaching your goals. So let's keep setting goals, staying disciplined, and chasing our dreams, one step at a time. Stay motivated, stay disciplined, and keep going for your dreams!

The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: [email protected]

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

For this week’s episode, I am sharing a story close to my heart: the 14-year-long journey of our landscaping business, Aura Landscapes, which I co-own with Mike. This episode is a time for reflection.

Aura Landscapes is celebrating 14 years—a real milestone that slipped my mind until a social media reminder popped up! It's quite the feat, and a testament to our resilience, especially considering the rollercoaster ride we've been on, which I've talked about in detail in our very first podcast episode.

In these years, we've proudly scooped up 37 awards, showcasing the trust our clients place in us and our standing as a leading force in the landscaping community. We value these recognitions, and though they might not be the sole reason clients pick us, they surely sprinkle an extra bit of trust and respect on our name.

Talking about the team, it's grown and shifted over time, but the spirit remains strong. Training our people, like Luke who started as an apprentice and now leads teams, is at the core of what we do. But let's be clear, creating a harmonious team isn't without its challenges—getting rid of the troublemakers early on is crucial.

Last year, we welcomed Shaun, who's taken our soft landscaping and planting to new heights, allowing us to expand our offerings. Now, we can take a client's idea from the drawing board all the way to regular garden upkeep. It's a big leap from our early days as hard landscaping specialists.

We're not shy about learning from others either. Over the years, I've made use of business coaches and entrusted our finances to experts because it's all about having that extra perspective and expertise.

One key piece of advice—keep a close eye on your finances. It's saved us from many a tight spot and continues to guide our business decisions.

As for mindset, it's very important. Staying upbeat and balanced in your personal life helps the business flourish too. We've learned to find that sweet spot between work and play, an important lesson for all of us, especially when the going gets tough.

Looking ahead, we've got big plans, like a new yard and bringing on fresh talent, including an in-house designer. We're also excited about opening our design showroom, which will be a space for clients to see and feel what we can create for them.

We're busy spreading the word about the joys of landscaping, encouraging young folks to consider it as a career, and getting ready to share more of our journey with you. If you've got any questions or just want to hear more, drop me a DM!

The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: [email protected]

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk

For today’s episode, we're not just talking about surviving the constant rain; we're discussing how to excel through cash flow forecasting, job costing, and strategic planning. Whether you're considering a new venture or want to ensure your current projects are profitable, this episode is your key to success. In this rainy March, I'm here to delve into the important practice of managing your finances – the foundation of business growth:

- The Importance of Cash Flow Forecasting & Business Planning: Managing your finances isn't just a good habit; it's essential. Whether you're making decisions about growth opportunities or evaluating new ventures, understanding your financial situation through cash flow forecasting and business planning is your compass through the challenges.

- The Importance of Cash Flow Forecasting & Business Planning: Managing your finances isn't just a good habit; it's essential. Whether you're making decisions about growth opportunities or evaluating new ventures, understanding your financial situation through cash flow forecasting and business planning is your compass through the challenges.

- Job Costings: To truly know if we're making a profit, we need to examine our jobs closely. This means assessing pricing, labor, materials, and all other expenses compared to income to ensure each job is financially rewarding.

- Can You Afford It?: Before adding new services or team members, such as an in-house garden designer, we must consider the full range of costs. It's not just about wages; it includes equipment, office space, and other overhead expenses.

- Increasing Revenue & Marketing: Growth is not just about covering costs; it's about expanding revenue. Understanding the number of additional jobs, average project values, and the number of leads we need is crucial. Our marketing strategies should adapt to our evolving services, attracting the right leads for our new ventures.

- Reflecting on Practices and Making Adjustments: Regularly reviewing job costings, marketing strategies, and operational practices is essential. Adjusting our approaches based on real data ensures we continually improve efficiency and profitability.

- Empowering Our Teams: By providing clear job instructions and work schedules, we empower our teams to take ownership, leading to better project outcomes. This allows us to focus on higher-level business growth strategies.

- Exciting Collaborations and Learning Opportunities: I'm thrilled about the upcoming webinar with Kendall from Builder Story, focusing on a blend of traditional and digital strategies for business growth. This is an opportunity to expand our knowledge and drive our businesses forward.

In everything we do, our focus is on making informed decisions to nurture our businesses into flourishing landscapes. We leverage numbers, forecasts, and plans as tools to cultivate success. If you're eager to grow, I'm here to help you plant the right seeds. Let's bring success, not just weather the storm. See you in the next episode, and here's to hoping for sunnier skies and prosperous times ahead!

The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: [email protected]

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

In this podcast episode I talk about the transformative power of downtime, drawing from my recent experience of taking a much-needed break.

Throughout this episode, I reflect on how embracing moments of rest and relaxation can profoundly impact both personal well-being and business success.

During my time away, I realized the importance of prioritising sleep. By ensuring I got enough rest each night, I found myself feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle challenges with a renewed sense of energy. It was a stark reminder of the significant role sleep plays in maintaining mental clarity and physical health, especially in the demanding landscape of entrepreneurship.

Additionally, I explored the value of indulging in my passions and hobbies. For me, this meant dedicating time to my bodybuilding journey, even while on holiday. By integrating my fitness routine into my travel plans, I not only stayed committed to my goals but also discovered a deeper sense of fulfillment and balance.

Spending quality time with loved ones was another highlight of my break. Whether it was enjoying leisurely conversations over coffee or embarking on adventures with my best friend, these moments reminded me of the importance of human connection and companionship. In a world often dominated by work obligations, nurturing relationships outside of business is crucial for maintaining a sense of perspective and joy.

Moreover, disconnecting from work and technology proved to be a game-changer. By setting boundaries around when I engaged with emails and social media, I was able to fully immerse myself in the present moment and recharge my mental batteries. This practice of digital detoxification not only alleviated stress but also fostered a greater sense of mindfulness and presence.

Reflecting on my experience, I encourage fellow landscapers and entrepreneurs to prioritise self-care and incorporate regular breaks into their schedules. Whether it's a brief escape from work or a more extended vacation, taking time to recharge is essential for sustaining long-term success and well-being. By nurturing ourselves, we cultivate the resilience and vitality needed to thrive in both our personal and professional lives!

If you want help with your landscaping business get in touch: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk/contact

The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: [email protected]

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk