Paving The Way Podcast

Is hands-on experience more valuable than qualifications? And what does it really take to build a career doing something you love? In the next installment of our conversation with award-winning garden designer Lee Bestall, Amy and Andy explore the importance of practical experience, building confidence and creating opportunities within the landscaping and garden design industry. Lee shares how networking and social media have helped shape his career, why relationships built years ago can still lead to new opportunities today, and how imposter syndrome held him back despite his growing experience. The conversation also explores whether traditional education prepares young people for working life, why apprenticeships and hands-on learning are so valuable, and what Lee looks for when bringing new people into his business. From standing out when approaching potential employers to finding your strengths and following your passion, Lee offers practical advice for anyone looking to build a career in a creative or hands-on industry. We also discuss the importance of being yourself, staying persistent and recognising that there's more than one route to success. Whether you're already working in landscaping, considering a career in garden design or looking to develop your skills, this episode offers plenty of insight into learning, confidence and making the most of opportunities. Catch up on other episodes with Lee to find out more about his experience and insights. Follow Paving the Way for more practical advice, industry insight and conversations with the people shaping our outdoor spaces.

What makes a great garden? Is it the materials, the design, or how well it works for the people living in it? In Part 1 of our conversation with award-winning garden designer Lee Bestall, Amy and Andy explore what really goes into creating outdoor spaces that look good, feel right and stand the test of time. From being told gardening wasn't a proper career to building a successful garden design business, Lee shares his journey into the industry, the challenges he's faced and the lessons he's learnt along the way. We discuss why good garden design starts with understanding how people live, the problem with following trends, and why homeowners shouldn't be afraid to question the professionals they're working with. We also get into the importance of honesty, communication and trust, and why raising standards across the landscaping industry matters for everyone. Whether you're a homeowner planning your garden or a professional working in landscaping and design, there's plenty to take away from this conversation. This is Part 1 of our conversation with Lee. Part 2 is coming next week, so make sure you're following Paving the Way so you don't miss it.

Trying to keep a project within budget is completely normal. But there’s a big difference between adjusting your plans and cutting corners. In this episode of Paving the Way, Amy and Andy look at what can happen when costs are cut in the wrong places — from questionable materials and unreliable suppliers to poor installation techniques and workmanship that simply isn’t up to the job. They discuss why practices such as spot bedding and inadequate priming can cause problems, why the right technique matters just as much as the materials you choose, and how poor workmanship can result in entire areas having to be ripped out and started again. They also share a real example of a tiling project where expectations and ability didn’t match, resulting in completed bathrooms having to be replaced. The key message? If the budget or timescale isn’t working, adjust the project rather than the standard of the work. Whether you’re a homeowner planning a renovation or a professional carrying out the work, this episode will help you understand where compromises can be made — and where cutting corners can end up costing far more. Subscribe to Paving the Way for more practical conversations on paving, landscaping, renovation and raising standards across the industry.

Why can the cost of a landscaping project look completely different six months after you first started planning it? It isn’t always as simple as a business putting its prices up. In Episode 30 of Paving the Way, Amy and Andy get into some of the less visible costs behind paving, landscaping and construction – and how everything from shipping rates and fuel prices to haulage and wider world events can eventually affect the price a customer sees. They look at the journey imported materials take before they ever reach a garden, why heavy products such as paving are particularly affected by shipping costs, and what happens when the price of moving a container changes dramatically in a relatively short period of time. There’s also the wider picture. Fuel affects deliveries. Machinery costs money to run. Vehicles, insurance and day-to-day business costs change. And when those increases work their way through the supply chain, landscapers and other professionals may have little choice but to adjust what they charge. Amy and Andy also discuss the difficult decisions businesses have to make when prices are moving quickly – including whether to hold stock, when increases can realistically be absorbed and why being open with customers about what has changed is so important. And because the conversation gets slightly heavy, there are also pirates, some questionable jokes for five-year-olds and a brief attempt to work out what happens when you cross a brown chicken with a brown cow. In this episode: • Why shipping has such a big impact on paving prices • How imported materials move through the supply chain • Why heavy products are particularly affected by freight costs • How fuel, haulage and other business costs affect a landscaping quote • Why a quote from six months ago might not reflect today’s costs • The challenge businesses face when prices rise and fall quickly • Why communication with customers matters when costs change • How wider world events can eventually affect a garden project If you enjoy Paving the Way, follow or subscribe wherever you listen, and share the episode with someone planning a landscaping or home improvement project.

Is your garden actually ready for autumn and winter? In Episode 29 of Paving the Way, Amy and Andy look at the jobs worth thinking about as the weather starts to change – from cutting back plants and looking after tired lawns to checking paving, clearing leaves and making sure your drainage is ready for wetter weather. They discuss why autumn maintenance matters, particularly when water finds its way into places it shouldn’t and freezing temperatures arrive. There’s also a wider conversation around drainage, changing weather conditions and why a balanced garden needs more than paving alone. And if you’re already thinking about having your garden transformed next year, should you really wait until spring before you start planning? Amy and Andy explain why autumn and winter can be a useful time to start conversations, think through what you want from your space and plan ahead rather than joining the rush when the sun comes back out. Plus, Amy discovers her lawn might not be quite as dead as she thought, we hear about her ongoing efforts to protect the pigeons nesting outside her house, and Andy offers some memorable advice on autumn pruning… In this episode: • Getting your garden ready for autumn and winter • Pruning, lawns and seasonal maintenance • Checking paving and jointing before colder weather • Clearing leaves and keeping drainage clear • Why drainage matters during periods of heavier rainfall • Creating a balanced, manageable garden • Why autumn is a good time to start planning next year’s project • The benefits of thinking about your summer garden before summer arrives If you enjoy Paving the Way, follow or subscribe wherever you listen, and share the episode with someone who might need the reminder to get their garden winter-ready.

AI is everywhere at the minute, but what does it actually mean for landscaping? In this episode, Amy and Andy talk about where AI could genuinely be useful in the industry, from helping customers visualise ideas to taking some of the time out of quoting, invoicing and general admin. They also discuss where it falls short. A computer might be able to create an impressive garden image, but that doesn’t mean the design will work in the real world. Measurements, ground conditions, experience, creativity and good relationships still matter. So, is AI something the landscaping industry needs to embrace, or is there still plenty it simply can’t replace? Amy and Andy share their thoughts on where it could help, what’s likely to change and why the human side of the trade still matters. Follow Paving the Way for more straightforward conversations about paving, landscaping and the wider industry.

Outdoor living is changing, customer expectations are growing, and there are more opportunities than ever for businesses willing to evolve. But how do you grow without losing sight of what made the business work in the first place? In this episode of Paving the Way, Andy McLaughlin is joined by Danny from Open Space Concepts for a relaxed conversation about the future of outdoor living, new opportunities across domestic and commercial projects, and why standing still isn’t really an option. They also get into the people behind that growth: building the right team, creating a workplace people genuinely want to be part of, encouraging new ideas and resisting the temptation to compete purely on price. There are a few detours into vanilla ice cream, ham sandwiches and a suspicious mid-morning Cornetto too. A conversation about growth, culture and where the paving and outdoor living industry could be heading next. Follow Paving the Way for more conversations with people from across the paving, landscaping and outdoor living industry.

How much of business success really comes down to who you know, and, more importantly, who trusts you? In this episode of Paving the Way, Andy sits down with Danny for a refreshingly honest conversation about networking, building genuine relationships and creating opportunities without constantly trying to sell. They explore why getting out from behind the day-to-day running of a business matters, how a small network of trusted people can be more valuable than a room full of contacts, and why reputation, character and simply being someone people enjoy working with can have a lasting impact. The conversation also looks at how networking has changed through social media, the value of surrounding yourself with the right people, building strong teams and how personal experiences can shape the way you approach business and relationships. And, naturally, there’s also talk of Gogglebox, cheeseboards, red wine and an unfortunate netball injury. If you work in landscaping, construction, outdoor living or run your own business, this is a useful reminder that some of the best opportunities start with a conversation rather than a sales pitch. Subscribe to Paving the Way for more honest conversations, practical insight and stories from across the industry.

A great product matters. But what happens when you need advice? When something doesn’t quite go to plan? When you’ve got a question six months down the line and need someone to actually pick up the phone?That’s the bit that can be easy to overlook.Andy sits down with Danny Bowers from Open Space Concepts to get into why the people and service behind a product matter just as much as the thing you’re actually buying.And if you’re spending serious money on your home or garden, it’s worth thinking about.Because two products can look almost identical online. What you can’t see in the photo is the knowledge behind them, who’s fitting them, how they’ll look after you afterwards, or whether there’s actually a team there when you need one.Danny also shares why he’ll send a customer a personal video rather than chase them with another sales call, why seeing a product in person can completely change your understanding of its value, and why businesses might be better off spending less time worrying about the competition and more time getting really good at what they do.For homeowners, it’s a useful reminder to look beyond the product when deciding who to trust with your project.And for anyone in the trade, there’s plenty in here about reputation, relationships and the small things that make people want to work with you again — and recommend you to someone else.Because sometimes the difference isn’t the product.It’s everything that comes with it.🎧 Watch or listen to the full episode of Paving the Way and follow the podcast for more straight-talking conversations from across the landscaping and outdoor living industry.

“If they only want to use it a couple of months of the year to keep some cushions dry, go to your local garden centre. If it's something that you want to entertain in all day, night, all year round, then that's the kind of structure that we offer.” — Danny Bowers We spend a lot of time thinking about what our gardens look like. But how much do we actually use them? In this episode of Paving the Way, Andy sits down with Danny Bowers from Open Space Concepts for the first of four conversations exploring outdoor living, quality, installation and what it really takes to create a garden that works as an extension of your home. This first episode is really about getting to know Open Space Concepts, what they do and why they do it — but it also gets into a much bigger conversation about the way we use our outdoor spaces. Because if your garden only really works when it’s sunny, are you getting as much out of it as you could? Danny talks about how outdoor living has changed, why the UK has traditionally been behind parts of Europe when it comes to making better use of gardens, and why more homeowners are now looking at their outdoor space very differently. They also get into something that applies well beyond pergolas and outdoor structures: how do you know what you’re actually paying for? Two products can look almost identical online, but the quality, installation, lifespan and way they perform can be completely different. And that’s where this conversation gets interesting. You’ll hear why Danny believes seeing products in person matters, why proper installation can’t be treated as an afterthought, and why sometimes the most useful thing a company can tell you is: “we’re probably not the right fit for you.” In this episode: - Who Open Space Concepts are and where they fit within the outdoor living industry - Why year-round outdoor living is becoming more popular - The difference between a seasonal garden structure and a space designed to be used properly throughout the year - Why what looks good online doesn’t always tell you the full story - Why installation, groundwork and landscaping all need to work together - How to think about what you actually want from your garden before spending money - Why honesty around budget and expectations matters - The importance of getting the right people involved in a project from the start This is the first of four episodes recorded with Open Space Concepts, so consider this the introduction. Over the next few conversations, we’ll be getting further into the detail around outdoor living, how these spaces are designed and installed, and what homeowners and trade professionals should really be thinking about before starting a project. If you’re planning to improve your garden, thinking about an outdoor kitchen or covered entertaining space, or you simply want to get more use out of the space you already have, this is a good place to start. 🎧 Follow Paving the Way so you don’t miss the rest of the Open Space Concepts series, and share this episode with someone who only seems to remember they have a garden when the sun comes out.

If you've recently joined us on Paving the Way, this is one conversation well worth catching up on.We're revisiting our episode with Leigh Harker from Gardens of Elegance, where we sat down to discuss the standards, decisions and attention to detail that go into creating quality paving and landscaping projects.From Leigh's journey in the industry to the lessons he's learned along the way, the conversation explores what separates a good installation from a great one, the mistakes that can lead to problems later on, and why honest advice is so important when helping homeowners make informed decisions.Whether you're planning an outdoor project or work within the landscaping industry, there's plenty here to take away—from choosing materials and balancing design with practicality, to understanding what ""doing it properly"" really means.This episode covers:- Leigh's journey into landscaping and the story behind Gardens of Elegance- The difference between an average paving job and one finished to a high standard- Common shortcuts and poor practices that still exist within the industry- Misconceptions homeowners often have when planning landscaping projects- Balancing design inspiration with practical, long-term solutions- The importance of transparency and trust when guiding clients- Choosing the right materials, suppliers and team for the job- Why quality workmanship matters at every stage of a project🎧 Whether you're listening for the first time or revisiting the conversation, we hope you find it as valuable today as when it was first released. If you enjoy the episode, be sure to subscribe, follow and share Paving the Way.

What does it take to supply commercial paving projects, and how is it different from working on domestic jobs? In this episode of Paving the Way, Amy and Andy discuss why RF Paving expanded into the commercial sector, what they've learned along the way, and why expertise matters just as much as the products themselves. They cover the role of technical knowledge, flexible sourcing, value engineering, bespoke specifications, and why listening to customers has shaped the company's commercial offering. From hospitality and public spaces to large construction projects, they explain the challenges commercial clients face and how building strong supplier relationships helps deliver practical solutions. Whether you're a contractor working on larger developments or simply curious about how commercial paving differs from residential projects, this episode provides an honest look behind the scenes. In this episode: - Why RF Paving invested in its commercial division - The key differences between domestic and commercial projects - The importance of technical expertise and specifications - How flexibility and supplier relationships solve project challenges - What value engineering means in practice If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow Paving the Way, leave a review, and share it with someone in the industry who'd find it useful.

Growing a successful landscaping business isn't just about winning more jobs—it's about winning the right ones.In this episode of Paving the Way, Amy and Andy share the practical lessons they've learned from working with landscapers every day. From making a strong first impression and communicating clearly with customers to pricing confidently and using social media effectively, they discuss the habits that help businesses stand out for the right reasons.They also explore why respecting your customers, suppliers and your own standards leads to stronger relationships, repeat work and long-term growth.Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, this episode is packed with straightforward advice you can put into practice straight away.In this episode:- Why professionalism starts before you've won the job- How better communication builds trust and repeat business- Why competing on price can damage your business- Making social media work for your local area- The importance of knowing your value and sticking to it- Building a reputation that generates word-of-mouth referralsIf you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow Paving the Way, leave a review and share it with someone in the trade who could benefit from the conversation.

Creating a seamless connection between your home and garden is one of the biggest design trends right now—but there's more to it than simply choosing matching tiles. In this episode, Amy and Andy explain what "Inside Out" really means, why internal and external porcelain may look identical but perform very differently, and how slip ratings, tile thickness and installation methods all play a part. Whether you're planning a home renovation or you're a trade professional looking to understand the latest design trends, this episode breaks down the practical considerations behind creating a beautiful, cohesive outdoor space. You'll learn: - What the Inside Out concept actually is - The difference between internal and external porcelain tiles - Why slip ratings matter more than you might think - How matching materials can make your home feel larger - Practical tips to consider before choosing your paving and flooring If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow Paving the Way, and share it with someone planning their next outdoor project.

How much does the weather really affect a paving project? And when should work continue, or be postponed, to protect the quality of the finished installation? In this episode of Paving the Way, Amy and Andy discuss the impact of changing weather on paving projects and why temperature plays a much bigger role than many homeowners realise. From scorching summer days to freezing winter mornings, they explain how different conditions affect materials, installation methods and long-term performance. They explore why reputable contractors sometimes delay work, how heat and cold influence the curing of mortar and concrete, and why protecting the quality of the installation should always come before sticking rigidly to a schedule. They also discuss what work can still be completed during periods of extreme weather and the importance of clear communication between contractors and customers. This episode is a reminder that great paving isn't just about the materials you choose. It's about understanding the conditions they're installed in and making decisions that prioritise quality, durability and safety over speed. In this episode: - How weather affects paving projects - Why temperature influences mortar and concrete - When delaying work is the right decision - The risks of installing paving in unsuitable weather conditions - What work can still be completed during weather delays - Why communication is key when projects are affected by the weather - How good planning helps protect the finished result If you enjoy the episode, subscribe, follow and share Paving the Way for more practical conversations around paving, landscaping and home improvement.

Where did RF Paving begin, and how has it evolved into the business it is today?In this episode of Paving the Way, Amy Andrews and Andy McLaughlin take a step back from day-to-day projects to share the story behind the RF name. From its origins in railway sleepers and transport, through the growth of the natural stone market, to the rise of porcelain and the future plans ahead, this is a conversation about heritage, relationships, and continuous evolution.Amy and Andy discuss why the company was founded by Rob and Fred, the importance of long-term supplier partnerships, and how trust, consistency, and family values have shaped the business over the last three decades. They also reflect on the challenges of adapting to changing markets, embracing new opportunities, and balancing future growth without losing sight of where it all began.This episode is a reminder that successful businesses aren't built overnight. They're built through relationships, hard work, adaptability and a commitment to doing what you say you'll do.In this episode:- The origin of the RF Paving name- How the business started with railway sleepers and transport- The move into natural stone and porcelain- Why long-term supplier relationships matter- The importance of adapting to industry change- How heritage and innovation can work together- Lessons from 30 years of growth and evolutionIf you enjoy the episode, subscribe, follow, and share Paving the Way for more practical conversations around paving, landscaping, and home improvement.

With AI, automation, and online communication becoming part of everyday business, are genuine relationships becoming more valuable than ever?In this episode of Paving the Way, Amy and Andy discuss why building trust, maintaining strong supplier networks, and meeting people face-to-face remain one of the most important parts of running a successful business. From customer relationships and industry partnerships to brand ambassadors and networking, they explore how meaningful connections are often the difference between a one-off transaction and a long-term partnership.The conversation explores the balance between embracing technology and preserving the human side of business, sharing real examples of how trust, authenticity, and shared values have helped create lasting relationships across the industry.In this episode:- Why human connection can't be replaced by technology- The role of trust in customer and supplier relationships- Building meaningful partnerships rather than transactional deals- How networking creates opportunities that can't be planned- Why authenticity matters more than ever in marketing and business- The difference between online visibility and genuine credibility- Lessons from building a people-first business cultureTechnology can make communication easier, but relationships are still built through trust, consistency, and real human interaction. The businesses that invest in people, not just platforms, are often the ones that create the strongest long-term success.Enjoyed the episode? Follow Paving the Way, leave a review, and share it with someone who believes good business starts with good relationships.

In a world dominated by websites, social media, and online research, do trade shows still have a place? In this episode of Paving the Way, Amy and Andy share their experiences of exhibiting at trade shows across the UK, from early mistakes and unexpected lessons to the relationships, opportunities, and insights that have helped shape the direction of the business. They discuss why face-to-face conversations still matter, how trade shows help homeowners make more informed decisions, and why meeting people in person creates a level of trust that can't always be replicated online. Along the way, they share stories from the Homebuilding & Renovating Show, the value of industry networking, and some of the more entertaining moments that happen once the exhibition hall closes. In this episode: - Why our first trade show wasn't the success we expected - How trade shows helped change the direction of the business - The value of meeting suppliers, partners, and customers face-to-face - Why homeowners can gain more from a day at a trade show than hours of online research - The role of advice centres and expert guidance at industry events - Building genuine relationships in an increasingly digital world - The unexpected stories and friendships that come from exhibiting Whether you're a homeowner planning a project or a trade professional looking to grow your network, trade shows remain one of the best places to learn, connect, and gain inspiration. Enjoyed the episode? Follow Paving the Way, leave a review, and share it with someone planning a project or working in the industry.

Andy recently headed down to Clerkenwell Design Week in London, one of the UK's biggest design and architecture events, to explore the latest ideas, materials, and innovations shaping the industry. In this episode of Paving the Way, Amy and Andy discuss what stood out, from bold new colour trends and textured materials to creative product showcases designed to spark conversation rather than simply make sales. They also explore why networking, community, and innovation remain so important in both the design and construction sectors. Whether you're a homeowner looking for inspiration or a trade professional interested in emerging trends, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how ideas are developed, showcased, and shared across the industry. Along the way, Amy and Andy discuss the value of thinking differently, creating memorable experiences, and why sometimes the products that attract the most attention aren't necessarily the ones that sell the most. In this episode: - What Clerkenwell Design Week is and who it's for - New trends in colours, textures, and materials - Why innovative product displays matter - The role of networking and community within the industry - Lessons businesses can learn about standing out from the crowd - How inspiration drives better design and project outcomes If you enjoyed this episode, follow Paving the Way, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves great design, construction, or outdoor living.

DIY home improvement content is everywhere right now: from garden makeovers and panelling projects to paving transformations and landscaping hacks. But has social media made DIY look easier than it really is? In this episode of Paving the Way, Amy and Andy discuss the explosion of DIY content across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, why it’s inspiring more people to take on projects themselves, and the risks that can come from oversimplified “before and after” videos. They cover: - Why DIY content has become so popular online - The positive side of DIY inspiration and creativity - How short-form content skips important preparation steps - Safety risks people often don’t think about - Why paving, drainage and groundwork are more complex than they appear - The difference between aesthetic results and long-term quality - When it’s worth calling in a professional This is an honest conversation about the balance between inspiration, education and reality when it comes to DIY projects and social media trends. If you enjoy the episode, subscribe, follow and share Paving the Way for more practical conversations around paving, landscaping and home improvement. #DIY #HomeImprovement #DIYProjects