Ground Control’s Branching Out Podcast

EP44: Sophie Sturgeon - Landscape Architect & 2026 RHS Young Designer

In this episode of the Branching Out Podcast, we speak with Sophie Sturgeon, one of our Landscape Architects, also a Pro Landscaper 30 Under 30 2025 winner and RHS Young Designer 2026! Sophie shares what goes on behind the scenes in the Design Team – from concept design and collaboration to creating outdoor spaces that genuinely benefit people and nature. She talks openly about confidence, learning by doing, and putting yourself forward, as well as her journey to national recognition and a preview of her RHS garden “A Space for Her”, which will be built and showcased at the Badminton Estate this summer. Learn more about here: https://www.ground-control.co.uk/insights/news/ground-control-designer-to-showcase-at-the-rhs-badminton-flower-show/ [https://www.ground-control.co.uk/insights/news/ground-control-designer-to-showcase-at-the-rhs-badminton-flower-show/] An inspiring listen for anyone interested in design, development, wellbeing and career growth!

EP43: Nicki Banyard - Business Support Manager

This episode features Nicki Banyard, Business Support Manager for Rail, Utilities & Infrastructure at Ground Control, sharing her career journey from temp to team leader. We discuss what her role involves, address myths about “back office” teams, and show how great internal service drives successful projects. Nicki talks about the value of mentoring, the GC Academy, and the importance of people development, ending with key lessons learned about supporting each other and making a positive impact.

EP42: Charlotte Cantwell - Senior Project Coordinator

In this episode, we catch up with Charlotte Cantwell to hear more about how she works with the landscape construction team to deliver projects across the UK. We discuss the importance of being open to learning new things and to always stay curious, never shying away from asking questions. We also hear about her experience in GC Grow and pick and mix GC Manage courses, which are a part of our GC Academy.

EP41: Patrick Croskerry & Alex Clark - Grounds Maintenance Operations

Ground Control’s teams are using technology to modernise grounds maintenance. In this episode, Patrick Croskerry and Alex Clark discuss moving from manual processes to data-driven decision making, boosting service delivery nationwide. They discuss how we are using Hubscape, to improve scheduling, capacity management, and client transparency with teams. They highlight how accurate reporting enhances safety and compliance while supporting teams. They share some great practical advice for career growth and learning in the industry.

EP40: Help for Heroes - Ground Control Charity of the Year

In this special episode of the Branching Out Podcast, we sit down with Kate Smith of Ground Control and Joy Petley of Help for Heroes to spotlight our new Charity of the Year partnership. Discover how the EverCare programme is driving Ground Control’s social and environmental impact across our business, and hear inspiring stories about Help for Heroes’ mission to support UK veterans and their families. Learn about our ambitious fundraising goals, upcoming volunteering opportunities, and how everyone can get involved! Tune in to be inspired by Help for Heroes’ story and find out how you can help make a difference.