11 - From Tree Surgeon to Business Leader: Simon Rotheram on Growth, Leadership and Letting Go

What does it really take to build a successful business, and how do you know when it's time to stop doing everything yourself? In this episode of Trees in a Pod, Sarah Dodd welcomes Simon Rotheram, founder and Managing Director of Beechwood Trees and Landscapes Ltd, for a refreshingly honest conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership and the challenges of growing a business. Simon started Beechwood in 1998 with a borrowed pickup truck, a trailer, a labourer and his trusty collie dog. There was no grand business plan, just a passion for trees and a determination to make a living doing something he loved. Nearly three decades later, his business has grown into an established arboricultural contractor, and Simon is now sharing his experience with other business owners through his Grow Up mentoring programme. Together, Sarah and Simon explore the realities of business ownership, from those early days of doing everything yourself to building teams, developing leaders and learning the difficult art of delegation. They discuss why bigger isn't always better, the importance of profitability over turnover, and how systems, processes and clear goals can transform the way a business operates. There's also a fascinating discussion about personality types, managing different people, embracing change and the role of AI in everyday business life. And on a more personal note, Simon shares how journaling, reflection and even a holly tree outside his front door help him leave the pressures of work behind and be more present with his family. It's a conversation full of practical insights, personal experiences and plenty of honest reflections from two business owners who are still learning, evolving and enjoying the journey. Whether you're running an arboricultural business, leading a team or building something of your own, there's something here for you. Connect with Simon Rotheram: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-rotheram-9723722a/ About the podcast: Trees in a Pod is hosted by tree law specialist Sarah Dodd, exploring the people, businesses, challenges and ideas shaping the world of trees and arboriculture. 🎙️ Enjoying the podcast? I’d love to hear your thoughts. You can leave me a voice message at www.speakpipe.com/treelaw – your questions or reflections might even feature in a future episode. 🎧 Huge thanks to Mike at Making Digital Real for producing and editing this episode to such a high standard.