Straight Talk with Mark Bouris #217 Nathan Stafford: Why This Lawn-Mowing Star Helps People Doing It Tough
Nov 19, 2025
Nathan Stafford, a Sydney-based gardener and social media star known for his work with Nathan’s Lawns and Gardens, shares his inspiring journey from struggling with homelessness to becoming a community hero. He discusses the therapeutic power of gardening, the joy of helping those in need, and how he turned a viral moment into a platform for good. With anecdotes about heartfelt restorations, community fundraising initiatives, and parenting challenges, Nathan embodies resilience and the importance of giving back.
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From School Dropout To Homelessness And Help
- Nathan left school in Year Nine and moved through jobs like McDonald's before ending up homeless in his early 20s.
- Salvation Army support and two key mentors helped him choose recovery and change his life's direction.
Old-School Hustle Launched The Business
- Nathan started Nathan's Lawns with second-hand gear and flyers, walking streets to win local clients.
- His first paid job was $20 for an hour of hedge and lawn work that launched word-of-mouth growth.
One Viral Clip Changed Everything
- A single TikTok/Instagram 45-second sped-up job exploded to over a billion views and rapidly grew his following.
- The viral moment pressured Nathan but opened opportunities for larger reach and sponsorships.
