The Landscape Ontario Podcast

Landscape Ontario
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Conversations on the issues shaping landscaping and horticulture in Ontario

  1. FEB 1

    Tech Stack:

    Karina Sinclair welcomes back Grant Harrison, a landscaping industry veteran and consultant, to the Landscape Ontario Podcast. This episode explores essential advice on choosing and implementing software solutions to improve your landscaping business's efficiency and profitability. From accounting and operational software to HR and fleet management, Grant offers actionable insights on technology adoption and overcoming resistance within your team. Discover the evolving role of AI and learn how to ensure successful software rollouts to help your business thrive. Tune in for expert advice and stay ahead in the evolving landscape industry. Resources Nextra Consulting

    49 min

  2. JAN 1

    Beyond Pink:

    In this episode of the Landscape Ontario Podcast, I’m talking with Dianne Finnigan, the founder of Dirty Seahorse, a company dedicated to creating functional, well-fitting workwear for women in trades. Dianne shares how her daughter Chantel's experience in the trades highlighted the lack of suitable clothing for women, which led to Dianne coming out of retirement to create Dirty Seahorse stitch by stitch. She discusses the rigorous process of researching, designing, and prototyping workwear with the help of women in various trades. Discover the unique features of their products and adaptable designs for different body types and weather conditions. Learn about the challenges of manufacturing technical workwear, the importance of proper fitting clothing for safety and efficiency, and Dirty Seahorse's advocacy for a PPE rebate for women. Dianne's journey from retirement to becoming a brand ambassador is truly inspiring. Watch this episode to gain insights into the evolution of women’s workwear in the trades industry. Resources Episode Transcription thedirtyseahorse.com

    25 min

  3. 12/02/2025

    Taking Over:

    In this episode of the Landscape Ontario Podcast, host Karina Sinclair and entrepreneur Nathan Helder discuss the dynamic intricacies of taking over a family business, specifically focusing on Nathan's experience purchasing Gelderman Landscape Services from his father-in-law. They cover various challenges such as gaining respect, understanding financial literacy and maintaining family relationships during the transition. The conversation highlights the importance of separating business from family, establishing clear strategies and ensuring proper financial management. The episode is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to understand the nuances of family business transitions and includes practical advice and resources for making the process smoother. Resources Episode Transcription TrueHelm 2025 TRUEHELM Business Succession Roadmap (Downloadable PDF) Southbrook Accounting Gelderman Landscape Services Family Business Services (CAFECanada) Book recommendations: Every Family’s Business by Thomas Deans Who by Geoff Smart and Randy Street Built to Sell and The Art of Selling Your Business by John Warrillow Video version of this episode

    50 min

  4. 11/03/2025

    Talk it out:

    Caution: This episode mentions death by suicide and mental health crises. In this episode of the Landscape Ontario Podcast, listeners are introduced to AgTalk, a free online mental health resource tailored for those in agriculture, horticulture and green trades. Hosted by Karina Sinclair, the episode features Merle Massie, executive director of the Do More Agriculture Foundation. Merle discusses the importance of mental health in these industries, the stigma surrounding it and the specific programs offered by the foundation, including workshops and the AgTalk platform. AgTalk is an anonymous, peer-to-peer support community within the broader Togetherall platform, with trained clinicians available to provide support. The episode highlights the unique mental health challenges faced by workers in these sectors and underscores the importance of creating a culture of openness and support. Merle also shares personal experiences and statistics that emphasize the need for mental health resources in agricultural communities. Resources Episode Transcription AgTalk — The Do More Agriculture Foundation Togetherall Mental health support: get help - Canada.ca Suicide Crisis Helpline Merle Massie Video version of this episode

    41 min

  5. 10/07/2025

    Groundbreaking Growth:

    In this episode of the Landscape Ontario Podcast, host Karina Sinclair speaks with Joe Salemi, the Executive Director of Landscape Ontario, about the association's upcoming project — a new training facility at their head office in Milton, Ontario. This state-of-the-art complex aims to provide world-class training for professionals across the landscape and horticulture sectors. Funded partially by a grant from the provincial government's Skills Development Fund, the facility will offer practical, hands-on training opportunities tailored to various disciplines within the industry. Salemi highlights the mission and vision of Landscape Ontario, the anticipated benefits of the new facility, the rigorous planning that has gone into its development and the broader impact it aims to have on the industry both provincially and nationally. Stay tuned for future updates on the construction and eventual launch of this transformative training centre. Resources Video version of this episode

    39 min

  6. 09/08/2025

    Plant hardiness zone map update:

    In this episode of the Landscape Ontario Podcast, I’m delighted to welcome scientists Dan McKenney and John Pedlar from Natural Resources Canada, who will be discussing the latest revision to Canada's plant hardiness zone map and website, which was last updated in 2014. We'll be delving into the seven climate variables that define these zones, how they differ from the USDA zones, and the potential impact of climate change on invasive species. Additionally, you'll learn about the contributions of citizen science and collaborations with U.S. agencies. Join us to explore the history of these maps, important considerations for growers and gardeners, and the challenges presented by regional climate change. It promises to be a very informative discussion. Resources Episode Transcription Canada’s Plant Hardiness Site Report: Updated plant hardiness zones for Canada and assessment of change over time Report: Change and evolution in the plant hardiness zones of Canada Video version of this episode

    47 min

  7. 08/01/2025

    Spotted Lanternfly

    In this episode, host Karina Sinclair discusses the Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive insect, with Jeanine West, PhD., a plant pathology and physiology expert from Landscape Ontario. Jeanine delves into the threat posed by the Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) to the agricultural sector, particularly the grape and wine industries in Canada. She outlines the insect's life cycle, preferred hosts and potential damage it can cause. Jeanine emphasizes the importance of early detection and public vigilance to slow its spread. She also discusses the importance of cooperation among the public, industry and government agencies, and debunks common myths about the pest. Landscape Ontario encourages landscapers to "Adopt a Spot" to keep an eye out for this pest as it moves from the U.S. into Canada. Resources Episode Transcription Spotted lanternfly facts and resources - Landscape Ontario Spotted lanternfly observations in Canada D-24-01: Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) – Domestic and import phytosanitary requirements - inspection.canada.ca Spotted Lanternfly prevention practices for producers | ontario.ca Video version of this episode

    33 min

  8. 06/11/2025

    Growing beyond limits:

    In this episode, Joe Steeves shares his journey of working in his dream job within the green trades. Defined not by his cerebral palsy but by his passion for plants, Joe discusses the importance of educator and employer efforts in creating inclusive opportunities. Through a university-level, virtual learning program, Joe has gained knowledge in soil diversity, pest management, plant identification and arboriculture. Additionally, he shares his positive experiences working in the community garden in the town of Riverview, N.B., highlighting the support and accommodations provided by his town and employer. Joe's story emphasizes the rewarding aspects of working outdoors and his hopes for a stable, long-term career in the green trades. This episode highlights the importance of creating inclusive and supportive work environments. Resources Episode Transcription Town of Riverview University of Guelph: Horticulture Certificate Video version of this episode

    23 min
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About

Conversations on the issues shaping landscaping and horticulture in Ontario

Information

  • Creator
    Landscape Ontario
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    77
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association
  • Show Website
    The Landscape Ontario Podcast

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