The Front Garden is a relaxed, insightful, and sometimes unexpectedly raw look at landscapers and the landscaping industry in all its complexity.
Presented by Landscaping Victoria, and hosted by Chris Weiss of Formation Landscapes, The Front Garden brings together some of the most respected voices in Australian landscaping. From iconic designers like Paul Bangay and Ian Barker to on-the-ground business owners, up-and-comers and changemakers, each episode unearths the stories, lessons, and perspectives that shape our profession.
Chris is more than just a host — he’s one of us. With decades of experience in the landscape-construction industry and a trophy cabinet full of industry awards (including accolades at state and national levels through AILDM, SPASA, LDI, and Landscaping Victoria), he knows the challenges, the triumphs, and everything in between.
His calm, curious style and genuine rapport with guests draw out conversations that go deeper than the surface, making each episode feel like a chat with a trusted mate who gets it.
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At around 40 minutes each, these fortnightly episodes are perfect for a drive between sites, time in the ute, or even a solo lunch break.
What sets The Front Garden apart is its balance — it’s not all polished inspiration or technical tips (though you’ll find plenty of both). It’s real conversations. That means candid chats about burnout, mental health, finding staff, building culture, or how to navigate the landscape as a woman in a still male-dominated field. The kind of stuff you talk about over a beer at the end of a long week — but with better audio quality.
It’s one of the only professionally produced podcasts made by landscapers, for landscapers. No fluff. No gimmicks. Just honest conversations with people who live and breathe the industry.
Give it a listen
So next time you’ve got your hands free but your brain’s ticking over, hit play on The Front Garden. You’ll walk away with a new idea, a few laughs — and the sense that you’re not in this alone.
Start with standout episodes like Paul Bangay (Ep 96), Ian Barker (S3E4), or Nathan Burkett (Ep 97b).
The Front Garden is proudly brought to you by Coolabah Turf & StrathAyr Instant Lawn, produced by MRL Media.
New episodes drop fortnightly. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts, and if you like it, hit the ‘follow’ button and leave a review.
To listen or get involved, log on to landscapingvictoria.com.au and search ‘The Front Garden podcast’ to select your favourite app.
