HeartLand founder and CEO Edward Schatz, Jr. was recently featured in Talking with Titans, an interview series from the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), published in The Edge magazine.
In the interview, Schatz reflects on his journey through the landscaping industry, from founding Austin Outdoor to establishing and continuing to lead HeartLand.
Drawing from his experience as both a buyer and a seller, Schatz shares his unique perspective on what makes a successful partnership:
“Having been the seller, I understand that choosing the right partner is one of the most important decisions an owner will ever make. […] We approach each opportunity with respect for what the owner has built and clarity about what life after the transaction will look like. A good acquisition is not just about closing a deal. It is about building trust before closing and proving that trust after closing.”
“The goal is to design the right leadership structure around the business, protect the important relationships, and help the company mature without losing what made it successful.”
The conversation also explores leadership development, the role of HeartLand University of Excellence, the challenges of scaling a business and how technology is shaping the future of the green industry. When asked how he defines success today compared to when he first started HeartLand, Schatz notes:
“When we started Heartland, success was about proving the model. Could we acquire strong local companies, preserve what made them special, and help them grow? Today, success is broader. It is about building a company that creates lasting value for employees, customers, local leaders, operating partners, and investors. The financial results matter, but they are not separate from the culture. If we are growing and creating real opportunity for people at the same time, that is when I believe we are succeeding.”
Throughout the interview, one theme remains consistent: meaningful growth begins with strong relationships and continues through a commitment to people.
Read the full interview here to learn more about Schatz’s leadership philosophy, HeartLand’s journey and his vision for the future of the landscaping industry.