Tree Surgeon's Podcast with Henri Ghijben

Henri Ghijben

Welcome to The Tree Surgeon's Podcast, your go-to resource for everything related to the tree surgery business! Join us as we delve into the world of arboriculture, sharing expert insights, success stories, and practical advice to help you grow your tree surgery business. Tune in to learn from industry leaders, stay updated on the latest trends, and take your business to new heights!

  1. 2d ago

    S2 | EP4 Mastermind Members Q&A

    This week I did something different. No guest, just me answering nine questions sent in by our mastermind group, the real questions tree surgery business owners have been quietly sitting on. Kit, cash flow, scale, profit, imposter syndrome, even whether my own addictive personality has actually helped the business. Nine honest answers, no script, no guest to hide behind. In this episode: Tom: the one thing Henri wishes he'd known starting out. Davy: imposter syndrome on bigger or more complex jobs. Alistair: buying kit, hiring kit, and the £10/£100/£1,000 task exercise. Chris: where the profit should actually go. Mark: when scale stops being the driving force. Alfie: managing cash flow on bigger contracts. Ben Harding: the moment things started clicking, and finding his "whos." Isaac: addictive personality as a business asset.   Want monthly accountability, systems and direct support from me? Join 40+ tree surgery business owners inside the Tree Surgeons Mastermind. tsbauk.co.uk/mastermind-join Want to sort your sales, marketing, operations, finances and mindset in 3 days? My Business Transformation Course covers all of it. tsbauk.co.uk/3-day-course-page

    42 min
  2. S2 EP3: Building a Business, Losing It All and What Comes Next | Lee Morris

    Jun 16

    S2 EP3: Building a Business, Losing It All and What Comes Next | Lee Morris

    Lee Morris built Morris Arb from scratch after the 2008 financial crisis, scaled it to 24 direct staff and had £2.5 million of rail work on the pipeline heading into 2025. Most of it never materialised. I sat down with Lee after a full mastermind day where he came in as guest mentor to share his story. We go through the whole journey: how the business grew, the toxic debt that started stacking during COVID, the machinery that sat collecting dust, the safety stand downs that bled the cash position dry, and the decision fatigue that makes it almost impossible to make the right calls when you're running on empty. Lee now works with Geo Access on the principal contractor side, bringing everything he learned as a supplier into that role. His biggest takeaway, and mine too, is straightforward: bank your cash and protect it. New episodes fortnightly covering the real day to day of running a seven-figure arb firm. 🎓 3-Day Business Transformation Course, 14–16 July 2026 → https://tsbauk.co.uk/3-day-course-page 🤝 Tree Surgeons Mastermind, 100+ members → https://tsbauk.co.uk/mastermind-join 🌳 HRG Tree Surgeons → https://www.hrgtreesurgeons.co.uk/

    1h 8m
  3. S2 EP2: 5am Starts, Six Teams and How I Actually Run HRG Tree Surgeons

    Jun 9

    S2 EP2: 5am Starts, Six Teams and How I Actually Run HRG Tree Surgeons

    Five to six teams. Twenty staff. Based between Winchester and Southampton. This episode is a look inside how HRG Tree Surgeons actually runs day to day, and what my life looks like directing it. I cover my morning routine, why I started taking it seriously a few years ago and what changed when I did. I also walk through the management team, Mike who has been with me sixteen years, Sonia in the office and my wife handling the finances, and why each of those roles is worth more than most business owners realise until they are drowning without them. If your business still runs through you for everything, this one is worth a listen. New episodes fortnightly covering the real day to day of running a seven figure arb firm. 🎓 Ready to work on your business, not just in it? 3-Day Business Transformation Course, 14–16 July 2026. 👉 https://tsbauk.co.uk/3-day-course-page 🤝 Monthly accountability, proven systems and direct support from Henri. Join the Tree Surgeons Mastermind, 100+ members. 👉 https://tsbauk.co.uk/mastermind-join 🌳 Need tree surgery in Hampshire or surrounding areas? HRG Tree Surgeons, get a quote. 👉 https://www.hrgtreesurgeons.co.uk/

    12 min
  4. S2 | EP1 Henri Ghijben's Story: No GCSEs, a Business That Failed & £1.6M Turnover | The Relaunch

    May 26

    S2 | EP1 Henri Ghijben's Story: No GCSEs, a Business That Failed & £1.6M Turnover | The Relaunch

    Tree Surgeon's Podcast with Henri Ghijben

    19 min

  5. 12/16/2025

    Ep 18 Stop Breaking Your Back - Use Machinery to Scale Your Tree Business

    Struggling to grow your tree surgery business? Join our Mastermind & Coaching Waitlist to be the first to know about upcoming business growth opportunities designed to help you gain more time, increase profit, and build a business that works for you! https://info.treesurgeonsbusinessacademy.co.uk/mastermindwaitlist – Join our free Facebook community to network with other tree surgeons, get valuable answers to your questions, and connect with professionals focused on growing their businesses! https://www.facebook.com/groups/treesurgeonbusinessowners – Tired of grinding out week-long takedowns with a crew of three and a pickup? In this episode, Henri dives deep into the real cost of doing everything by hand — and why hiring in machinery could be the smartest move you make for your business and your body. From cranes to chippers, loaders to tractors, discover how the best in the game are increasing efficiency, profit, and quality of life without owning a yard full of kit. Whether you're a one-man band or running multiple crews, this one will shift how you think about time, pricing, and smart scaling. Key Takeaways: 🚀 Why hiring machinery can double your profits — and halve your burnout 🚀 The false economy of filling the diary just to stay busy 🚀 How to price jobs for efficiency, not effort 🚀 Real examples of jobs won by being smarter, not cheaper 🚀 The mindset shift every growing tree surgery business needs 🚀 How sales and marketing free you from race-to-the-bottom pricing - Connect with the host:  Website: http://tsba.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treesurgeonsbusinessacademy/ ; https://www.instagram.com/henrighijben/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/treesurgeonbusinessowners LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henri-ghijben – This episode is sponsored by Greenline Arb (GLA) - a powerful digital platform created by tree surgeons, aimed at taking the stress out of tree work. Focussing on the main pain points in the game, such as; finding tip sites, connecting workers with employers, responding to emergency situations and locating services that are required to run a tree company. Green Line is allowing professionals to operate with more freedom. Solving multiple problems in one fell swoop. Download the app today or check out the website for more information. App Store: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/greenline-arb/id6448873784 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.greenlinearbapp&hl=en_US&pli=1 Website: https://www.greenlinearb.com/

    9 min

  6. 12/02/2025

    Ep 17 Tree Surgery Business Planning: How I Grew Net Profit from 20% to 33%

    Struggling to grow your tree surgery business? Join our Mastermind & Coaching Waitlist to be the first to know about upcoming business growth opportunities designed to help you gain more time, increase profit, and build a business that works for you! https://info.treesurgeonsbusinessacademy.co.uk/mastermindwaitlist – Join our free Facebook community to network with other tree surgeons, get valuable answers to your questions, and connect with professionals focused on growing their businesses! https://www.facebook.com/groups/treesurgeonbusinessowners – In this solo episode of the Tree Surgeons Podcast, I open up about the journey behind HRG Tree Surgeons' most successful year to date — boosting our net profit from 20% to 33%. I share practical insights on how planning and setting clear business goals transformed my business and personal life. If you're a UK-based tree surgeon who feels stuck, overworked, or underpaid, this episode is for you. We'll explore: Why planning matters — even if it's just on the back of a f*g packet How to start with the end goal in mind Turning your "default mode" time into growth time Common mistakes tree surgeons make when growing their business Real talk on profit margins, sales, teams, and tools Why being great on the tools isn't enough — and how to become a better business owner An invite to our free live business planning workshop on December 2nd Whether you're a one-man band or running multiple teams, this is a no-BS look at what it takes to build a business that works for you, not one you're stuck working for. - Connect with the host:  Website: http://tsba.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treesurgeonsbusinessacademy/ ; https://www.instagram.com/henrighijben/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/treesurgeonbusinessowners LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henri-ghijben – This episode is sponsored by Greenline Arb (GLA) - a powerful digital platform created by tree surgeons, aimed at taking the stress out of tree work. Focussing on the main pain points in the game, such as; finding tip sites, connecting workers with employers, responding to emergency situations and locating services that are required to run a tree company. Green Line is allowing professionals to operate with more freedom. Solving multiple problems in one fell swoop. Download the app today or check out the website for more information. App Store: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/greenline-arb/id6448873784 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.greenlinearbapp&hl=en_US&pli=1 Website: https://www.greenlinearb.com/

    13 min

  7. 07/08/2025

    Ep 16 Revolutionising Waste Management & Efficiency in Tree Surgery with Nick Wilson

    Download our FREE 7 Steps Guide: How to Acquire Commercial Clients and get the roadmap to land high-value contracts. https://info.treesurgeonsbusinessacademy.co.uk/Commercial-Client-Toolkit – Struggling to grow your tree surgery business? Join our Mastermind & Coaching Waitlist to be the first to know about upcoming business growth opportunities designed to help you gain more time, increase profit, and build a business that works for you! https://info.treesurgeonsbusinessacademy.co.uk/mastermindwaitlist – Join our free Facebook community to network with other tree surgeons, get valuable answers to your questions, and connect with professionals focused on growing their businesses! https://www.facebook.com/groups/treesurgeonbusinessowners – In this episode of the Tree Surgeons Podcast, Nick Wilson, the founder of Green Line Arb, returns for an in-depth update on his innovative app that's transforming the way arborists handle waste, manage efficiency, and connect with local communities. Green Line Arb was created with a focus on simplifying the waste disposal process for tree surgeons, but after extensive feedback, Nick and his team have pivoted to focus on streamlining their app and providing smarter solutions for waste management and tree surgery logistics. The app now helps tree surgeons and contractors: Quickly find nearby drop points to offload waste, saving valuable time and money. Stay connected with local communities, fostering word-of-mouth marketing and new leads. Access safety features and up-to-date industry information through the app's media hub. – About the Guest Nick Wilson, leader of the Green Line team, grew up in the arboriculture industry, with parents running a successful tree business since the 1970s. After honing his skills at Merrist Wood College, Nick gained global experience working with tree companies worldwide. A passionate entrepreneur, he's always looking for innovative ways to drive progress and challenge the status quo in the arboriculture industry. Nick is committed to helping others discover their unique strengths, create value, and lead purpose-driven businesses that foster meaningful connections and move the industry forward. – Contact Guest: Website: https://www.greenlinearb.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenlinearb Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greenlinearb LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-wilson-46013a2ba/ – Connect with the host:  Website: http://tsba.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treesurgeonsbusinessacademy/ ; https://www.instagram.com/henrighijben/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/treesurgeonbusinessowners LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henri-ghijben – This episode is sponsored by Greenline Arb (GLA) - a powerful digital platform created by tree surgeons, aimed at taking the stress out of tree work. Focussing on the main pain points in the game, such as; finding tip sites, connecting workers with employers, responding to emergency situations and locating services that are required to run a tree company. Green Line is allowing professionals to operate with more freedom. Solving multiple problems in one fell swoop. Download the app today or check out the website for more information. App Store: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/greenline-arb/id6448873784 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.greenlinearbapp&hl=en_US&pli=1 Website: https://www.greenlinearb.com/

    59 min

  8. 06/24/2025

    Ep 15 Why Ben Hayford Walked Away From His Tree Surgery Business (And Doesn't Regret It)

    Download our FREE 7 Steps Guide: How to Acquire Commercial Clients and get the roadmap to land high-value contracts. https://info.treesurgeonsbusinessacademy.co.uk/Commercial-Client-Toolkit – Struggling to grow your tree surgery business? Join our Mastermind & Coaching Waitlist to be the first to know about upcoming business growth opportunities designed to help you gain more time, increase profit, and build a business that works for you! https://info.treesurgeonsbusinessacademy.co.uk/mastermindwaitlist – Join our free Facebook community to network with other tree surgeons, get valuable answers to your questions, and connect with professionals focused on growing their businesses! https://www.facebook.com/groups/treesurgeonbusinessowners – Starting a business in arboriculture sounds like a dream, but for Ben Hayford, the reality hit hard. In this raw and unfiltered episode of the Tree Surgeons Podcast, Ben shares how he went from building a tree surgery company from scratch to walking away entirely and why it was the best decision for his mental health and family. We cover: His journey from teenage gardener to climbing foreman The hard truths about running a tree business (spoiler: cashflow is brutal) Why hiring and managing people in this industry is so tough The emotional toll of chasing payments and juggling overheads How sub-contracting brought him peace—and even more money His new venture: Tree Ninjas, a lifestyle brand for arborists – About the Guest Ben Hayford is the founder of B. Hayford Tree Specialists, a Suffolk-based arboriculture business built from the ground up. Ben began his journey in the tree care industry while working for Mid Suffolk District Council, where he completed climbing courses and pursued his arborist qualifications. He's appeared in industry publications, built a solid crew from scratch, and recently launched Tree Ninjas, a lifestyle brand for arborists. Ben's story reflects the real-world challenges of growing a business, burnout, leadership, financial pressure—and the courage it takes to pivot toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. – Contact the Guest: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.hayfordtrees/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/B.hayfordtreespecialists/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-hayford – Connect with the host: Website: http://tsba.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treesurgeonsbusinessacademy/ ; https://www.instagram.com/henrighijben/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/treesurgeonbusinessowners LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henri-ghijben – This episode is sponsored by Greenline Arb (GLA) - a powerful digital platform created by tree surgeons, aimed at taking the stress out of tree work. Focussing on the main pain points in the game, such as; finding tip sites, connecting workers with employers, responding to emergency situations and locating services that are required to run a tree company. Green Line is allowing professionals to operate with more freedom. Solving multiple problems in one fell swoop. Download the app today or check out the website for more information. App Store: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/greenline-arb/id6448873784 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.greenlinearbapp&hl=en_US&pli=1 Website: https://www.greenlinearb.com/

    41 min
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About

Welcome to The Tree Surgeon's Podcast, your go-to resource for everything related to the tree surgery business! Join us as we delve into the world of arboriculture, sharing expert insights, success stories, and practical advice to help you grow your tree surgery business. Tune in to learn from industry leaders, stay updated on the latest trends, and take your business to new heights!

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