Grow A Small Business Podcast

Troy Trewin

Our weekly 30 minute podcast helps you, a small business owner with 5 to 30 team members, take your company to the next level. The Grow A Small Business community, weekly cast, blog and leadership email supports leaders get through the pain of growth. With insights, lessons learned, books and tools as well as habits these experienced small business owners suggest you develop, our interviews unearth tremendous value for anyone wanting to grow their business with less stress. read less
BusinessBusiness

Episodes

QFF: Founder of The Future Organization, on Growing a Successful Global Business with a Team of 20 Experts, Leading with Vulnerability, Innovation, and Leadership to Drive Success in the Future of Work and Employee Experience. (Episode 565 - Jacob Morgan)
3d ago
QFF: Founder of The Future Organization, on Growing a Successful Global Business with a Team of 20 Experts, Leading with Vulnerability, Innovation, and Leadership to Drive Success in the Future of Work and Employee Experience. (Episode 565 - Jacob Morgan)
In less than 20 minutes a week, we'll introduce you to an expert or business owner with deep experience in what they do. Grow you, grow your team, grow a small business. In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Michael Denehey interviews Jacob Morgan, 5x best-selling author, professionally trained futurist, and keynote speaker. He shares how he built a successful global business with a team of 20 experts. Jacob discusses the importance of leading with vulnerability, fostering innovation, and creating future-ready leaders. His insights reveal how embracing challenges and focusing on employee experience have driven his company's success in the ever-evolving world of work. Jacob mentioned his book, Leading with Vulnerability, which can be accessed here. Listeners are also encouraged to subscribe to his Future Ready Leadership Newsletter for more insights. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners:   Lead with Vulnerability: Acknowledge mistakes, but always show how you're working to fix them. Vulnerability combined with leadership builds trust and fosters growth.   Foster a Learning Culture: Encourage your team to embrace challenges and gaps in skills as opportunities for learning, driving both personal and business growth. Model Leadership: As a business owner, lead by example. Show your team it's okay to be vulnerable, but also demonstrate competence and solutions. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for?   Build Trust Through Openness: Vulnerability plays a key role in building trust within teams. Openly sharing challenges strengthens relationships and drives collaboration.   Adapt to Change: In a rapidly evolving business environment, continually assess your gaps and adapt your strategies to stay ahead in your industry.   Encourage Team Development: Empower your team to identify their own areas for improvement and take proactive steps One action small business owners can take: One actionable step small business owners can take, according to Jacob Morgan, is to lead by example. By demonstrating vulnerability themselves, business owners can set a precedent for their teams, showing that it is acceptable and encouraged within the organization. This approach helps create a culture where vulnerability is viewed as a strength rather than a weakness. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇   Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Vulnerability is not about exposing weakness; it's about demonstrating growth and learning – Jacob Morgan The key to cultivating a culture of vulnerability is for leaders to first model it themselves – Jacob Morgan Vulnerability without leadership can be misinterpreted; always pair it with a plan and purpose – Jacob Morgan
From Startup to Success: Barratt Kennett on Growing EFCOMM Group to a 50 — Member Team, Embracing Profit Sharing, and Overcoming Leadership Challenges with Vision and Resilience. (Episode 564 - Barratt Kennett)
5d ago
From Startup to Success: Barratt Kennett on Growing EFCOMM Group to a 50 — Member Team, Embracing Profit Sharing, and Overcoming Leadership Challenges with Vision and Resilience. (Episode 564 - Barratt Kennett)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Barratt Kennett, Director  of EFCOMM Sales and Marketing Solutions, Kennett shares his journey from a small startup to a thriving business with 50 employees. He talks about the benefits of profit sharing, his leadership style, and the significance of having a clear vision. Kennett also explores the challenges of scaling a business, offering practical advice on overcoming them with resilience and determination. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Barratt Kennett, the hardest thing in growing a small business is "acclimating to the pressure" and learning to handle repeated challenges, or "eating crap sandwiches." He emphasizes that tolerating and overcoming difficulties is crucial, and advises embracing failures and taking on more challenges as a way to build resilience and improve. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Barratt Kennett’s favorite business books that have helped him the most are "Next Five Moves" and "Choose Your Enemies Wisely" by Patrick Bet-David, "Atomic Habits" by James Clear, and "Maximum Achievement" by Brian Tracy. He finds these books particularly valuable for both business and personal development. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Barratt Kennett recommends focusing on podcasts with impactful guests, such as those featuring Daniel Priestley, Lewis Howes, and Joe Rogan. He suggests following these guests on social media to catch promotional clips and dive deeper into their insights. For online learning, Kennett emphasizes the importance of exploring various podcasts and utilizing them to expand knowledge and skills relevant to business growth. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Barratt Kennett recommends having a crystal clear vision of how to improve a specific aspect of your business. He emphasizes the importance of defining what needs to be better, why it should be improved, and how to achieve that. This clear vision helps in rallying support and creating a focused strategy for business growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? On day one of starting out in business, Barratt Kennett advises to "buckle up" and be prepared for the challenges. He emphasizes that while people warn you about the difficulties, they don’t fully convey the isolation and pressure you might face. Understanding that you’ll have to endure hardships alone, but will ultimately be fine, can help in navigating the journey with resilience and determination.   Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Eat crap sandwiches, and your tolerance for pressure will grow — Barratt Kennett A crystal clear vision on how to make things better is your best business weapon — Barratt Kennett The world stands aside for the man who knows where he's going — Barratt Kennett
Inside Security National Mortgage: Aaron Chapman Reveals How He Achieved in excess of $100M in Production, Built a High-Performing Team, and Navigated Business Growth. Learn from His Journey to Success. (Episode 563 - Aaron Chapman)
1w ago
Inside Security National Mortgage: Aaron Chapman Reveals How He Achieved in excess of $100M in Production, Built a High-Performing Team, and Navigated Business Growth. Learn from His Journey to Success. (Episode 563 - Aaron Chapman)
In this episode of the Grow a Small Business podcast, host Troy Trewin interviews Aaron Chapman of Security National Mortgage company. Aaron shares insights into growing his business to $100M in production and building a high-performing team. He discusses the challenges and strategies behind his success, including his key achievements and the role of his dedicated team members. Tune in for valuable lessons on navigating business growth and leadership. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: 1. What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Aaron Chapman, the hardest thing in growing a small business is "getting your ass up and keep going when it seems as though everything is against you." He emphasizes that persistence and overcoming challenges are crucial, noting that the painful experiences often stick with you more than the wins. He advises using these difficulties as learning opportunities and not letting them deter you from continuing your efforts. 2 .What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Aaron Chapman's favorite business book that has helped him the most is "The Master Key System" by Charles F. Haanel. He also mentions "Outwitting the Devil" by Napoleon Hill as another highly impactful book. Both works focus on personal development and success principles. 3 .Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Aaron Chapman suggests leveraging a few key resources for small business growth. He highlights Darren Hardy's business philosophy for its practical and in-depth advice. He also recommends Napoleon Hill’s Master Key Series available on YouTube, which provides timeless lessons on success habits. Additionally, Chapman stresses the importance of CRM tools for managing contacts and maintaining personal connections, noting their critical role in fostering business relationships. 4. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Aaron Chapman recommends using a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tool to grow a small business. He emphasizes its importance for managing contacts, tracking interactions, and maintaining detailed records about clients. This helps keep connections personal and organized, which is crucial for nurturing relationships and driving business success. 5 .What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Aaron Chapman advises his day-one self to heed the advice of experienced mentors rather than assuming he knows everything. He underscores the importance of embracing Napoleon Hill's belief in the power of belief and applying knowledge from influential books. This approach is crucial for achieving success. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Surround yourself with great people and mentors; they’ll help you see and achieve what you couldn’t alone – Aaron Chapman A good business book is more than just words; it’s a tool to reshape your thinking and drive your success – Aaron Chapman Remember, you’re the sum of the five people you spend the most time with; choose wisely – Aaron Chapman
QFF: Mastering Content Marketing with Marcus Sheridan: How to Stand Out in a Competitive Market, Embrace AI, and Build Trust by Addressing What Others Avoid—Success Stories and Practical Tips for Small Business Owners. (Episode 562 - Marcus Sheridan)
05-09-2024
QFF: Mastering Content Marketing with Marcus Sheridan: How to Stand Out in a Competitive Market, Embrace AI, and Build Trust by Addressing What Others Avoid—Success Stories and Practical Tips for Small Business Owners. (Episode 562 - Marcus Sheridan)
In less than 20 minutes a week, we'll introduce you to an expert or business owner with deep experience in what they do. Grow you, grow your team, grow a small business. In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Michael Denehey interviews Marcus Sheridan from Impact plus discusses the importance of understanding not just who your business serves, but who it doesn't. He emphasizes the value of clarity in operations and the growing impact of AI on content creation, urging small businesses to embrace AI tools to scale their efforts. Sheridan also shares a success story of Opus Partners, a New Zealand company that has thrived by being transparent and consistent in its approach. Marcus discussed his book, They Ask, You Answer: A Revolutionary Approach to Inbound Sales, Content Marketing, and Today's Digital Consumer. This book offers a clear guide to revamping your current marketing strategy. Learn more about Marcus at Opes Partners. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Know Who You’re Not: Clarity on who your business does not serve is as crucial as knowing who you do serve. This helps you confidently say no to opportunities that don't align with your expertise. Focus on Your Strengths: Concentrate your efforts on what you do best. This not only optimizes your resources but also enhances customer satisfaction by delivering high-quality services. Embrace AI for Content Creation: AI can significantly boost your content production, allowing small businesses to create high-quality, human-like content at scale without additional staffing. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Be Transparent and Honest: Openness about your limitations and the true benefits of your offerings builds trust with customers, leading to stronger relationships and long-term success. Stand Out by Doing What Others Won’t: Differentiate your business by taking bold steps in your sales process and content strategy that your competitors aren't willing to take. Consistency is Key: Success in content marketing and business growth comes from consistent efforts over time. Stay committed to your strategies, even when results aren't immediate. One action small business owners can take: One action small business owners can take, according to Marcus Sheridan, is to embrace and implement AI tools for content creation. By leveraging AI, they can produce high-quality, human-like content at scale, enhancing their online presence without needing to hire additional staff. This can help them stay competitive and stand out in their industry. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: The greatest day in business is when you figure out who you're not – Marcus Sheridan If you’re not pushing the envelope, you’re not doing enough – Marcus Sheridan- Bad AI content gets penalized, just like bad human content – Marcus Sheridan
Creating a Successful Business: Barbara Wardell & Ernesto Cullari on Authentic Content, Strategic Partnerships, and Navy SEAL Lessons for Overcoming Challenges & Achieving Success in Geofencing. (Episode 561 - Barbara Wardell & Ernesto Cullari)
03-09-2024
Creating a Successful Business: Barbara Wardell & Ernesto Cullari on Authentic Content, Strategic Partnerships, and Navy SEAL Lessons for Overcoming Challenges & Achieving Success in Geofencing. (Episode 561 - Barbara Wardell & Ernesto Cullari)
In this episode of the GASB Podcast, host Troy Trewin interviews Barbara Wardell and Ernesto Cullari, founders of cwadagency, to discuss their journey to success. They delve into the importance of authentic content, the value of strategic partnerships, and how lessons from Navy SEALs have influenced their approach to overcoming entrepreneurial challenges. Barbara and Ernesto also share their insights on maintaining a thriving business and the revenue impact of their innovative strategies. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: 1 .What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Barbara Wardell and Ernesto Cullari believe the hardest part of growing a small business is having the right team. They stress that without the right people, growth is extremely challenging. They also highlight the frustration of limited understanding in their niche, underscoring the need for effective communication and education. 2. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Barbara Wardell's favorite business book is The Wasabi Love, which focuses on appreciating every moment and being present. Ernesto Cullari prefers Confessions of an Ad Man for its engaging style and the Growth Hacking book, which introduced him to concepts like minimal viable products. 3. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Barbara Wardell and Ernesto Cullari recommend the Sean Ryan Show for its insights into managing stress and challenges through the experiences of former Navy SEALs. They also emphasize creating genuine, original content—such as photography or videos—to showcase expertise and enhance visibility. This approach helps build engagement and a stronger connection with potential customers. 4.What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Barbara Wardell and Ernesto Cullari recommend using original content as a key tool for growing a small business. They suggest that business owners should create and share authentic content, such as photography or videos, to showcase their expertise. Genuine content enhances visibility, engages the audience, and builds a stronger connection with potential customers. 5. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Barbara Wardell and Ernesto Cullari advise against trying to do everything yourself when starting a business. Instead, surround yourself with skilled, trustworthy people who excel where you might not. Building and staying loyal to a strong, capable team will help you navigate both challenges and successes. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Don't do it all alone; build a team with skills that complement yours – Barbara Wardell & Ernesto Cullari Find people who are smarter than you in areas where you lack expertise, and they will help you succeed – Barbara Wardell & Ernesto Cullari Success comes from balancing your strengths with others' weaknesses, creating a complementary team." – Barbara Wardell & Ernesto Cullari
Unlocking Growth: Jim Stevenson’s Journey with Bletchley Group, scaling a client by £6M with an 6-Person Team in 8 weeks. Unveils Proven Strategies for Team Building, Cultural Transformation, and Business Breakthroughs. (Episode 560 - Jim Stevenson)
01-09-2024
Unlocking Growth: Jim Stevenson’s Journey with Bletchley Group, scaling a client by £6M with an 6-Person Team in 8 weeks. Unveils Proven Strategies for Team Building, Cultural Transformation, and Business Breakthroughs. (Episode 560 - Jim Stevenson)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Jim Stevenson, founder of Bletchley Group, reveals how he turned his consultancy into a leading digital firm, generating $6 million in revenue for a client, in eight weeks, with a team of six. He discusses the power of a growth mindset, shaping effective teams, and the importance of balance in business relationships. Tune in for actionable insights from his 24-year journey in the industry. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, being a learner again when moving into a new industry, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Jim Stevenson highlights that the hardest part of growing a small business is maintaining motivation during tough times. He emphasizes that staying driven through challenging days, weekends, and even months is crucial for long-term success. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Jim Stevenson’s favorite business book is not a book but the movie "The Martian" starring Matt Damon. He finds it valuable for its lessons on prioritization and focusing on immediate problems that need solving to ensure business survival and success. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Jim Stevenson didn’t recommend specific podcasts but emphasized using audio books and Get Abstract for book summaries. He also finds Notion useful for organizing tasks and values Atomic Habits by James Clear for insights on habit formation and growth. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Jim Stevenson recommends investing in a CRM for managing customer relationships, and using Notion for organizational tasks. He emphasizes that a CRM is essential for any business, and Notion helps streamline operations efficiently. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Jim Stevenson would advise himself to focus on being the "McKinsey for the digital age," aiming for high-quality work and a strong reputation. He would also remind himself to build a small, capable team in key financial hubs to manage workload and achieve global reach. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.   Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: A growth mindset turns mediocre strategies into exceptional companies – Jim Stevenson Focus on what will kill you today, so you get to play again tomorrow – Jim Stevenson Shaping teams is about fitting the right skills and culture to the challenge – Jim Stevenson
QFF: Resilience & Success: Jacqui Louder on Managing Ego, Embracing Failure, and Building Winning Team Culture. Insights on Burnout, Self-Awareness, and Sustained Success for Small Business Owners in Business and Sports. (Episode 559 - Jacqui Louder)
29-08-2024
QFF: Resilience & Success: Jacqui Louder on Managing Ego, Embracing Failure, and Building Winning Team Culture. Insights on Burnout, Self-Awareness, and Sustained Success for Small Business Owners in Business and Sports. (Episode 559 - Jacqui Louder)
In less than 20 minutes a week, we'll introduce you to an expert or business owner with deep experience in what they do. Grow you, grow your team, grow a small business. In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Michael Denehey interviews Jacqui Louder a Psychologist at Performe Sports Medicine. Discusses the parallels between sports and business, focusing on resilience, managing ego, and embracing failure as keys to success. She offers insights on building a winning team culture and practical tips for avoiding burnout, emphasising the importance of self-awareness and continual growth for small business owners. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Resilience Through Setbacks: Success in both sports and business often comes from learning through setbacks and embracing failure as a growth opportunity.   Managing Ego: Regularly challenge ego in business to avoid stagnation and encourage continuous improvement.   Importance of Small Wins: Just like in sports, recognizing and rewarding small achievements in business contributes to long-term success. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for?   Preventing Burnout: Self-awareness, good time management, proper sleep, and nutrition are crucial to avoiding burnout and maintaining peak performance.   Creating a Positive Team Culture: Build a strong team culture by highlighting strengths before discussing areas for improvement, fostering a growth mindset, and treating everyone fairly.   Sustained Success: Focus on process-oriented goals rather than just outcomes to ensure consistent progress and long-term success. One action small business owners can take:   One action small business owners can take, according to Jacqui Louder, is to regularly acknowledge and celebrate small achievements within their teams. This practice not only boosts morale but also builds momentum toward achieving larger business goals. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success in business, like in sports, comes from embracing failure and learning from it – Jacqui Louder A strong team culture is built by valuing character over personality – Jacqui Louder   Mindfulness is keeping your head and heart in the same place, fully present in the moment – Jacqui Louder
Discover Cath McDowell's journey scaling Howrah Plumbing to $12M revenue and a team of 47 over 29 years. Learn how her leadership turned a small business into a thriving enterprise with a robust company culture. (Episode 558 - Cath McDowell)
27-08-2024
Discover Cath McDowell's journey scaling Howrah Plumbing to $12M revenue and a team of 47 over 29 years. Learn how her leadership turned a small business into a thriving enterprise with a robust company culture. (Episode 558 - Cath McDowell)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Cath McDowell, the driving force behind Howrah Plumbing. Cath reveals her journey from managing a small business to scaling it to $12M in revenue with a team of 47 over 29 years. She shares insights on building a strong company culture and the challenges of growth. Tune in to learn how dedication and strategic leadership transformed her enterprise into a thriving success. Other Resources: Marketing Funding Flywheel Ebook Mark Ritson, ex-Business School Professor, now heads the CPD-accredited Mini MBA in Marketing with 20,000 alumni in 60 countries and a team of 8 FTEs. Craig West on how ESOPs can boost productivity by 7%-23%, triple team engagement, and double retention, plus insights on benefits, costs, and timelines. Tom Lewin on Employee Share Plans: boost staff retention, transparency. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, being a learner again when moving into a new industry, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Cath McDowell believes the hardest part of growing a small business is maintaining a strong company culture while scaling. Balancing growth with the personal touch that built the business initially can be a significant challenge. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Cath McDowell mentions that she doesn't have a favorite business book, as she primarily focused on training courses and practical skills for her professional development. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Cath McDowell doesn't have specific recommendations for podcasts or online learning resources for growing a small business. She prefers practical training and hands-on learning over online resources. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Cath McDowell recommends having strong support around you as a key tool for growing a small business. She emphasizes the importance of a good team and supportive people who can help with daily tasks, job reviews, and equipment decisions. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Cath McDowell would advise herself to take holidays whenever possible and enjoy time off. She reflects that she never expected to stay at the same company for her entire career, and encourages balancing work with personal time. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Being committed to your business is a long-term dedication; it’s not a short-term project — Cath McDowell Feedback from employees who’ve worked elsewhere can be incredibly valuable and reaffirming — Cath McDowell Creating a strong company culture means valuing what happens outside of work and rewarding your team — Cath McDowell
David Gaz From The Bureau of Small Projects: How He Built a Successful Business with $3.5M in Revenue, a 40-Person Team, Embraced Path-Oriented Growth, and Achieved Balance Through Zen Practices and Mentorship. (Episode 557 - David Gaz)
25-08-2024
David Gaz From The Bureau of Small Projects: How He Built a Successful Business with $3.5M in Revenue, a 40-Person Team, Embraced Path-Oriented Growth, and Achieved Balance Through Zen Practices and Mentorship. (Episode 557 - David Gaz)
In this episode of the Grow a Small Business podcast, host Troy Trewin interviews David Gaz of The Bureau of Small Projects shares his journey to building a successful business with $3.5 million in revenue and a 40-person team. He discusses embracing a path-oriented approach to growth, the importance of resilience, and how Zen practices and mentorship have helped him maintain balance. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to David Gaz, the hardest thing in growing a small business is managing people. He emphasises that dealing with the complexities of team dynamics and maintaining a positive, productive culture can be particularly challenging. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? David Gaz's favourite business book that has helped him the most is "Antifragile" by Nassim Nicholas Taleb. He finds it valuable for its insights into thriving amid change and uncertainty, which he believes is crucial for navigating today's rapidly evolving business environment. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? David Gaz recommends the Grow a Small Business podcast as a great resource for growing a small business. He appreciates the podcast for its engaging content and valuable insights, making it a useful tool for entrepreneurs looking to expand their knowledge and skills. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? David Gaz suggests that tools or resources that help you stay centred and resilient are essential for growing a small business. He specifically mentions meditation and fly fishing as practices that help him maintain balance and mental clarity, which can be crucial for business growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? David Gaz advises that on day one of starting a business, focus less on having a detailed business plan and more on simply starting. He emphasises that luck plays a significant role in business success, and likens it to getting hit by a freight train—it only happens if you're on the tracks. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: The only thing that guarantees success in business is to never give up – David Gaz Luck is like getting hit by a freight train; it only happens if you're on the track. – David Gaz Zen practices and resilience are key tools for thriving in a fast-changing world –David Gaz
QFF: Lean Marketing's Managing Director reveals how he transformed small business marketing, driving millions in revenue with a 25-member team. Uncover his secrets to creating successful strategies, metrics, and messages. (Episode 556 - Allan Dib)
22-08-2024
QFF: Lean Marketing's Managing Director reveals how he transformed small business marketing, driving millions in revenue with a 25-member team. Uncover his secrets to creating successful strategies, metrics, and messages. (Episode 556 - Allan Dib)
In less than 20 minutes a week, we'll introduce you to an expert or business owner with deep experience in what they do. Grow you, grow your team, grow a small business. In this episode of Grow A Small Business, host Michael Denehey interviews Allan Dib, Managing Director of Lean Marketing, about his journey to creating successful marketing strategies that have generated millions in revenue. Allan shares insights on essential metrics like lifetime value and cost of acquisition, and discusses how clear messaging and understanding your target market can transform your business. Tune in for actionable tips to enhance your marketing plan and drive business growth. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Define Your Target Market Clearly: Identify and understand your ideal clients in detail to tailor your marketing efforts effectively. Aim to be so specific that you can recognize your target audience in daily interactions.   Focus on Lifetime Value and Cost of Acquisition: Calculate the lifetime value of your clients and the cost of acquiring them. Aim for a cost of acquisition that is a fraction of the client’s lifetime value to ensure profitability.   Develop a Solid Marketing Strategy: Before diving into tactics like ads or website changes, build a comprehensive marketing plan. Use it as a blueprint to guide your actions and ensure alignment with your business goals. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Craft a Compelling Message: Your marketing message must resonate with your target audience. Avoid amplifying a weak message – ensure it's clear and appealing before investing in widespread promotion.   Leverage Data and Metrics: Regularly track and analyze key metrics such as click-through rates, bounce rates, and conversion rates. Focus on metrics that reflect business outcomes, like lifetime value and cost of acquisition.   Continuous Improvement: Regularly revisit and refine your marketing plan based on performance data and client feedback. Adapting and improving over time will help you stay relevant and competitive. One action small business owners can take: One action small business owners can take is to download and complete the "One Page Marketing Plan" available on Allan Dib’s website. This simple, single-page framework helps clarify your target market, message, and strategy, providing a focused approach to guide your marketing efforts and improve business results. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximise your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Marketing is not about throwing random tactics against the wall; it’s about having a clear strategy and plan – Allan Dib The most important metrics to track are lifetime value and cost of acquisition; everything else is secondary – Allan Dib Your marketing message should be so compelling that your ideal clients feel like you’re speaking directly to them – Allan Dib
Mastering Team Growth: Secrets to Hiring Top Talent, Cultivating a Thriving Culture, and Balancing Professional Development | Learn from Good to Great, Effective Mentorship, and Essential Tools for Small Business Success. (Episode 555 - Lesley van Tuil)
20-08-2024
Mastering Team Growth: Secrets to Hiring Top Talent, Cultivating a Thriving Culture, and Balancing Professional Development | Learn from Good to Great, Effective Mentorship, and Essential Tools for Small Business Success. (Episode 555 - Lesley van Tuil)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin sits down with Lesley van Tuil about scaling a small business. Lesley shares insights on hiring top talent, building a strong culture, and balancing professional development. They discuss key strategies, including the impact of mentorship and tools like Good to Great. Tune in for practical advice and personal growth tips for entrepreneurs. Other Resources: An easy way to measure if your customers love you in 21 minutes – use the Net Promoter Score (NPS). And it’s FREE. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions:   What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Lesley van Tuil identifies the hardest thing in growing a small business as the need for constant flexibility and adaptability. She emphasizes the challenge of keeping up with rapidly changing industry patterns and making quick, effective decisions amidst evolving conditions. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Lesley van Tuil's favorite business book is "Good to Great" by Jim Collins. She finds it particularly impactful for understanding how any business, regardless of its starting point, can grow into a significant, successful enterprise. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Lesley van Tuil recommends the Manager Tools podcast as a valuable resource for small business growth. The podcast offers concise, practical advice on management and professional development, making it a great tool for addressing team issues and improving business skills. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Lesley van Tuil recommends having the right support systems as a key resource for growing a small business. This support can vary for each person but is crucial for success, providing the necessary guidance and assistance to navigate business challenges effectively. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Lesley van Tuil advises herself on day one of starting out in business to not focus on the small things. She suggests that many of the concerns that seemed critical at the beginning will turn out to be insignificant in the long run, and everything will eventually fall into place. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.   Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: The right people on your team are the key to unlocking extraordinary growth — Lesley van Tuil Flexibility and quick decision-making are crucial in navigating the ever-changing landscape of business — Lesley van Tuil Building a kick-ass culture starts with genuine personal connections with your team — Lesley van Tuil
Passion to Powerhouse: Dave McQuillen's Sufferfest Journey: Explore how Dave scaled Sufferfest with his exceptional team, reshaped cycling culture, and the strategies behind his success and their impact on the cycling world. (Episode 554 - Dave McQuillen)
18-08-2024
Passion to Powerhouse: Dave McQuillen's Sufferfest Journey: Explore how Dave scaled Sufferfest with his exceptional team, reshaped cycling culture, and the strategies behind his success and their impact on the cycling world. (Episode 554 - Dave McQuillen)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Michael Denehey interviews Dave McQuillen, the founder of Sufferfest (wahooX), shares his journey from passionate entrepreneur to scaling Sufferfest into a leading cycling brand. He discusses the role of his exceptional team in reshaping cycling culture and reveals the strategies that fueled their success. Tune in to discover insights into growing a business and making a significant industry impact. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here.   Michael delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice.   And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions:   What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Dave McQuillen, the hardest thing in growing a small business is choosing what not to do. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on what truly drives success and avoiding distractions from bright, shiny objects that can divert attention and resources. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Dave McQuillen’s favorite business books are "Why We Buy" by Paco Underhill and "Setting the Table" by Danny Meyer. He values "Why We Buy" for its insights into consumer behavior and merchandising, and "Setting the Table" for its lessons on customer experience and leadership. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Dave McQuillen didn't find podcasts to be particularly influential during his time with Sufferfest, but he mentioned enjoying cycling podcasts now that he's out of the industry. For growing a small business, he emphasizes the importance of tools that facilitate meaningful conversations with customers, rather than just quantitative surveys. Prototyping ideas and getting feedback directly from users is also crucial. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Dave McQuillen recommends using tools that facilitate direct, meaningful conversations with customers. He emphasizes the value of prototyping ideas and gathering feedback through interactive discussions rather than relying solely on quantitative surveys. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Dave McQuillen advises that he might not give himself any specific advice on day one. He believes that if he had known how challenging and consuming the journey would be, he might have been too scared to start. Embracing the unknown and adapting as things progressed was, in his view, advantageous to his success. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Invest in your team; it's the best way to scale your business effectively – Dave McQuillen Understanding your customers daily is crucial; it’s not something you can delegate – Dave McQuillen The most transformative industry changes are often the hardest to recognize and act on – Dave McQuillen
QFF: Unlocking Business Success with Greg Crabtree: From Founding Simple Numbers to Generating $20M in Revenue with a 30-Member Team - Essential Financial Strategies for Small Business Owners to Maximize Profit and Growth. (Episode 553 - Greg Crabtree)
15-08-2024
QFF: Unlocking Business Success with Greg Crabtree: From Founding Simple Numbers to Generating $20M in Revenue with a 30-Member Team - Essential Financial Strategies for Small Business Owners to Maximize Profit and Growth. (Episode 553 - Greg Crabtree)
In less than 20 minutes a week, we'll introduce you to an expert or business owner with deep experience in what they do. Grow you, grow your team, grow a small business. In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Michael Denehey interviews financial expert Greg Crabtree from Carr, Riggs & Ingram (CRI) shares the principles behind his company, Simple Numbers, which successfully generated $20M in revenue with a lean team of 30 members. Greg discusses key metrics for small business success, including the importance of maintaining two months of cash flow and the Total Labor Efficiency Ratio (LER). He offers actionable insights for optimizing profitability and managing capital effectively. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Simplify Financial Reporting: Use Simple Numbers to present financial data clearly and make it actionable, moving beyond traditional accounting practices.   Focus on Gross Margin: Prioritize gross margin over revenue to accurately assess business health and profitability. Revenue alone can be misleading.   Implement the Total Labor Efficiency Ratio (LER): Aim for $2 of gross margin for every $1 of labor to ensure efficient use of resources and boost profitability. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for?   Maintain Two Months of Cash Flow: Having two months of operating expenses in cash and zero line of credit debt is crucial for financial stability and effective decision-making.   Avoid Overcapitalization: More than two months of cash can lead to complacency. Properly manage excess capital to avoid underperforming investments.   Use Rolling 12-Month Data: Analyze financial metrics over a rolling 12-month period rather than monthly to get a more accurate picture of business performance. One action small business owners can take: One actionable step small business owners can take is to calculate their Total Labor Efficiency Ratio (LER). Aim to achieve at least $2 of gross margin for every $1 spent on labor. This metric will help you gauge labor efficiency and ensure that your business is operating profitably. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Revenue is vanity; gross margin is reality – Greg Crabtree The most important number on the P&L is the contribution margin, not profit – Greg Crabtree Simplify your financial data to make it actionable and insightful for better decision-making – Greg Crabtree
Mastering Business Success with Nikki Chamberlain: Discover How Outsourced HQ Achieved $600K Revenue and Grew to 23 Team Members—Insights on Building a Strong Culture, Strategic Mentoring and Sustainable Growth Practices. (Episode 552 - Nikki Chamberlai
13-08-2024
Mastering Business Success with Nikki Chamberlain: Discover How Outsourced HQ Achieved $600K Revenue and Grew to 23 Team Members—Insights on Building a Strong Culture, Strategic Mentoring and Sustainable Growth Practices. (Episode 552 - Nikki Chamberlai
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin sits down with Nikki Chamberlain, Founder of Outsourced HQ, shares how she reached $600K in revenue and scaled to 23 team members. She delves into her strategies for building a dynamic company culture, the significance of strategic mentoring, and approaches to sustainable growth. Tune in for actionable insights and key strategies for driving business success. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here.   Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice.   And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions:   What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Nikki Chamberlain believes that the hardest thing in growing a small business is moving out of a reactive mindset. It involves delegating tasks effectively and trusting others to handle responsibilities, even if they might not execute them with the same precision or capacity as the business owner. This shift from managing every detail to empowering a team is crucial for sustainable growth. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Nikki Chamberlain's favorite business book that has helped her the most is "The Diary of a CEO" by Steven Bartlett. She found it particularly insightful for its practical advice on business and personal development. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Nikki Chamberlain recommends the "Build" podcast by Layla Hall-Moses, which focuses on building effective teams and fostering a strong company culture. For online learning, she suggests exploring resources that emphasize team dynamics and professional development. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Nikki Chamberlain recommends using a CRM tool like Dubsado. It helps automate up to 80% of daily paperwork, including client onboarding, forms, contracts, and communications, streamlining operations and maintaining long-term client relationships. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Nikki Chamberlain would advise her day-one self to ask for help sooner and to avoid being too proud. She emphasizes the importance of reaching out for support and guidance early on, rather than trying to handle everything alone, even if it feels daunting. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Don’t let pride keep you from seeking the help you need to succeed – Nikki Chamberlain Effective mentoring is a cornerstone of sustainable business growth – Nikki Chamberlain The cost of replacing great staff far exceeds the investment in their happiness and growth –Nikki Chamberlain
Balancing Business and Life: Mark Hubbard's Journey on Building Teams, Effective Communication, Strategic Planning, and Successful Exits - Essential Tips for Sustainable Growth and Realistic Forecasting.  (Episode 551 - Mark Hubbard)
11-08-2024
Balancing Business and Life: Mark Hubbard's Journey on Building Teams, Effective Communication, Strategic Planning, and Successful Exits - Essential Tips for Sustainable Growth and Realistic Forecasting. (Episode 551 - Mark Hubbard)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Mark Hubbard, the successful founder of Blizzard Brewery. Hubbard shares his journey of growing the brewery from its inception to a successful exit, discussing the challenges he overcame and the strategies that drove his success. He emphasises the importance of strategic planning, effective communication, and achieving work-life balance. Hubbard’s insights offer valuable lessons for entrepreneurs aiming for long-term business success. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, being a learner again when moving into a new industry, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions:   What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Mark Hubbard, the hardest thing in growing a small business is sustaining growth. He points out that while growth is rewarding and necessary for business success, it requires continuous innovation and idea generation. Keeping up with growth can feel like a relentless treadmill, where you must consistently find ways to achieve and sustain progress. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Mark Hubbard's favorite business book that has helped him the most is The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter by Michael Watkins. He found it particularly useful for establishing discipline and meeting deadlines when opening his business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Mark Hubbard suggests listening to industry-specific podcasts such as Brews News and those from Crafty Point Media. These podcasts help him stay plugged into the brewing community and feel part of the industry. For broader learning, he also finds value in online learning tools that keep business owners informed and engaged. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Mark Hubbard recommends using planning and forecasting as a key tool for growing a small business. He emphasizes the importance of creating realistic forecasts and plans that genuinely reflect what you can achieve. Accurate forecasting serves as a practical roadmap for business growth and helps avoid unrealistic expectations. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Mark Hubbard advises that on day one of starting a business, you should focus on the concept of "how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time." This means breaking down your grand vision into manageable steps and making steady progress toward your goals. Having a clear plan and taking it step by step will help you navigate the overwhelming aspects of starting and growing a business. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest:   Growth can be a master, rewarding yet demanding continuous innovation and ideas – Mark Hubbard Balance is key; without it, you may find yourself held hostage by your own business – Mark Hubbard Success in business starts with a clear vision and tackling it one step at a time – Mark Hubbard
QFF: Unlocking Sustainable Growth: A Blueprint for Wasteless Marketing to Boost Profits and Impact. Focus on sustainable practices to reduce waste while driving business growth and enhancing financial performance. (Episode 550 - Neil Krikul)
08-08-2024
QFF: Unlocking Sustainable Growth: A Blueprint for Wasteless Marketing to Boost Profits and Impact. Focus on sustainable practices to reduce waste while driving business growth and enhancing financial performance. (Episode 550 - Neil Krikul)
In less than 20 minutes a week, we'll introduce you to an expert or business owner with deep experience in what they do. Grow you, grow your team, grow a small business. In this episode of Grow A Small Business, host Rob Cameron interviews brand and marketing consultant Neil Krikul. Neil breaks down the word 'sustainability' and shares how he integrates it into marketing strategies, emphasising the importance of commercial outcomes before maximising societal and environmental impacts. Neil shares insights from a recent product launch case study, emphasising strategies to minimise advertising waste. His key advice for small business owners is to prioritise by doing less and outsourcing where possible, allowing more time to focus on impactful activities. Listeners can also access his free eBook, offering practical tips to save time and money by reducing marketing waste. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Integrate Sustainability: Incorporate sustainability into your brand strategy and you'll benefit from being the leader. It’s not just about communicating sustainability but also demonstrating it through actions.   Understand Your Market: Conduct thorough research to understand your business’s position in the market, customer motivations, and competitive landscape. Use both qualitative and quantitative data for a comprehensive view.   Minimise Marketing Waste: Adopt zero-based budgeting for your marketing efforts. Focus on reaching the right audience with optimal frequency to avoid wasting advertising spend. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Prioritise and Focus: As a small business, prioritise your efforts and resources. Concentrate on high-impact activities and delegate tasks where possible to maximise efficiency.   Leverage Data: Use data to inform your strategies and measure effectiveness. Track both qualitative insights (like customer feedback) and quantitative metrics (like analytics) to guide decisions.   Offer Practical Resources: Utilise tools and resources, such as Neil’s free ebook on minimising marketing waste, to implement effective strategies and improve your marketing outcomes. One action small business owners can take: One actionable step small business owners can take, according to Neil Krikul, is to adopt zero-based budgeting for their marketing efforts. This involves setting your marketing budget based on specific objectives and needs rather than historical spend, allowing you to allocate resources more effectively and minimise waste. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximise your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇   Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Sustainability in branding is not just about talking the talk but walking the walk with genuine actions – Neil Krikul Understanding both qualitative and quantitative data is crucial for developing a well-rounded marketing strategy – Neil Krikul Zero-based budgeting helps you allocate your marketing spend based on real objectives, not just past budgets – Neil Krikul
Empowering Pleasure: How Girls Get Off Revolutionised the Sex Toy Industry with $2M Revenue and a Team of 5, Normalising Female Pleasure and Creating a Safe Space for Exploration in Sydney, Australia. (Episode 549 - Viv Conway)
06-08-2024
Empowering Pleasure: How Girls Get Off Revolutionised the Sex Toy Industry with $2M Revenue and a Team of 5, Normalising Female Pleasure and Creating a Safe Space for Exploration in Sydney, Australia. (Episode 549 - Viv Conway)
In this episode of the Grow a Small Business podcast, host Michael Denehey interviews Viv Conway, co-founder of Girls Get Off, a sex toy company that has generated nearly $2 million in revenue with a team of five. Viv shares her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of normalising female pleasure, and the innovative marketing strategies that have helped her business thrive in a traditionally taboo industry. Tune in to hear how Viv is changing perceptions and creating a supportive community around sexual wellness. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here.   Michael delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions:   What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Viv Conway, co-founder of Girls Get Off, highlights that one of the hardest aspects of growing a small business is overcoming societal taboos and perceptions around the sex toy industry. She emphasises the importance of normalising conversations about female pleasure, which has historically been stigmatised. Additionally, she notes that navigating market competition and ensuring a positive customer experience are significant challenges. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Viv Conway highlights "The Big Leap” by Gay Hendricks as her favourite business book. She appreciates its insights on building a successful business through continuous innovation and validated learning, which have been crucial in her entrepreneurial journey. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Viv Conway recommends podcasts and online resources for entrepreneurs growing their small businesses. She emphasises engaging with content that normalises taboo topics like sex and pleasure. Additionally, she suggests platforms offering practical advice and strategies for niche markets. These resources provide insights into innovative marketing techniques and community building, crucial for business success. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Viv Conway recommends that her favourite app at the moment is Slack... If you could implement one thing that would improve your efficiencies, I'd highly recommend Slack, particularly for remote teams. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? On day one of starting Girls Get Off, Viv Conway would advise herself to embrace the journey with confidence and authenticity. She would emphasise the importance of normalising conversations around female pleasure and not being deterred by societal taboos. Additionally, she would recommend focusing on building a supportive community and leveraging humour in marketing to create a welcoming environment for customers exploring sexual wellness. Finally, she would encourage staying adaptable and learning from feedback as the business evolves. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Exercise is the number one most important habit for small business owners – Viv Conway Sometimes you're the only person who puts limits on yourself – Viv Conway Understanding exactly what you want from a new hire before bringing them on board is crucial – Viv Conway
Email Success Story: Founder of Senders Shares Insights on Growing His Email Deliverability Business to $5M in Revenue with a 30-Member Team - Overcoming Email Challenges and Mastering Marketing for Business Growth. (Episode 548 - Benny Rubin)
04-08-2024
Email Success Story: Founder of Senders Shares Insights on Growing His Email Deliverability Business to $5M in Revenue with a 30-Member Team - Overcoming Email Challenges and Mastering Marketing for Business Growth. (Episode 548 - Benny Rubin)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Benny Rubin, Founder of Senders, Benny shares insights on how he scaled his email deliverability business to serve hundreds of clients, generate millions in revenue, and send tens of millions of emails annually. He covers solutions for email sending and delivery challenges, the technical details involved, and the critical role of email marketing. Benny also highlights the importance of continuous testing and iteration in marketing strategies to drive business growth. Other Resources: Business Transformation ProgramMarketing Funding Flywheel Ebook Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions:   What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Benny Rubin believes the hardest thing in growing a small business is managing the mental game, including dealing with self-doubt and the uncertainty of success. Even with confidence, the psychological challenges can be significant and ongoing. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Benny Rubin's favourite business books include "Built to Sell" for its insights on preparing a business for sale, "The E-Myth Revisited" for its focus on working on your business, and "King Larry" for its unconventional story of DHL’s founder. He values books that provide both practical advice and historical perspectives. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Benny Rubin prefers historical business books and insightful podcasts over modern advice. He recommends Nathan Latka's podcast for quick, actionable SaaS insights and John Marlowe’s podcast for valuable exit strategies. For a broader view, "The Man Who Solved the Market" offers foundational knowledge on high-frequency trading. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Benny Rubin recommends Missive, an email tool that transforms emails into a chat interface for team collaboration. It allows for seamless communication and drafting, enabling efficient management and integration of client interactions without traditional email complexities. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Benny Rubin advises himself to “stay calm and carry on.” He emphasises the importance of maintaining composure and keeping focused, despite the challenges and lengthy discussions about uncertainties. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Work should never feel like a grind; if it does, something's off – Benny Rubin Stay calm and carry on; keep your head in the zone despite the uncertainties – Benny Rubin For a clear perspective, focus on historical insights rather than breathlessly chasing the latest trends – Benny Rubin
QFF: Unlocking the Power of Behavioral Economics: Melina Palmer on Effective Pricing Strategies and Customer Psychology- Discover How to Transform Your Business with High Anchors, Bundling, and Thoughtful Pricing Techniques. (Episode 547 - Melina Palmer)
01-08-2024
QFF: Unlocking the Power of Behavioral Economics: Melina Palmer on Effective Pricing Strategies and Customer Psychology- Discover How to Transform Your Business with High Anchors, Bundling, and Thoughtful Pricing Techniques. (Episode 547 - Melina Palmer)
In less than 20 minutes a week, we'll introduce you to an expert or business owner with deep experience in what they do. Grow you, grow your team, grow a small business. In this episode of Grow A Small Business, host Michael Denehey interviews Melina Palmer founder of The Brainy Business. Melina shares insights on effective pricing strategies, customer psychology, and how behavioural economics can transform your business. Learn practical tips on using high anchors, bundling, and thoughtful pricing to boost sales and customer satisfaction. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Understand Subconscious Decision-Making: Recognize that most customer decisions are made subconsciously. Use this knowledge to tailor your pricing and marketing strategies to align with how people naturally make choices.   Confident Pricing is Crucial: Develop confidence in your pricing. A lack of confidence can lead to discounting and negatively affect customer perception. Ensure that your pricing reflects the value you provide.   Leverage Anchoring Techniques: Use anchoring by presenting higher-priced options first. This makes subsequent options appear more affordable and increases the likelihood of higher-value purchases. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Incorporate Bundling Strategies: Create bundles of products or services to offer high-value options without needing to add new items. Bundling can also set a high anchor price, making individual items seem more reasonably priced.   Align Pricing with Business Identity: Decide whether your business is positioned as a provider of quality or value. Tailor your pricing strategy to match this positioning, using whole numbers for quality and rounded-down figures for value.   Communicate Pricing Changes Effectively: When adjusting prices, ensure that you and your team are clear on the reasons and benefits. Effective communication about pricing can help in overcoming internal resistance and gaining buy-in from all stakeholders. One action small business owners can take: According to Melina Palmer One actionable step small business owners can take is to implement anchoring in their pricing strategy. Start by presenting higher-priced options first to create a perception of value, making subsequent lower-priced options appear more attractive and affordable. This tactic can effectively increase the perceived value of your offerings and drive more sales.   Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximise your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Understanding subconscious decision-making can transform your pricing strategy – Melina Palmer Bundling products can create high-value perceptions without needing new offerings – Melina Palmer Confident pricing reflects the true value of your product or service – Melina Palmer
Trail Running Business Success: Founder of Harrier Trail Running Shares Her Secrets to Achieving Consistent 30% YoY Growth and a 97% NPS. Discover Her Expertise in Growth, Quality, and Leadership. (Episode 546 - Kate Parker)
30-07-2024
Trail Running Business Success: Founder of Harrier Trail Running Shares Her Secrets to Achieving Consistent 30% YoY Growth and a 97% NPS. Discover Her Expertise in Growth, Quality, and Leadership. (Episode 546 - Kate Parker)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Kate Parker, Founder of Harrier Trail Running Shares Her Impressive Journey and Secrets to Achieving Consistent 30% YoY Growth and a 97% NPS. Kate shares her experiences on scaling, managing quality, and navigating leadership challenges. She offers valuable insights into balancing work and life, and strategies for successful business growth. Don’t miss this episode for practical advice and inspiration. Other Resources: NPS. An easy way to measure if your customers love you in 21 minutes – use the Net Promoter Score (NPS). And it’s FREE. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let’s get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Kate Parker, the hardest thing in growing a small business is being confident in your choices. She highlights the challenge of navigating numerous potential paths for growth and making decisions with confidence in a rapidly evolving business environment. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Kate Parker's favourite business books that have helped her the most are "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen Covey and "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie. She finds these old-school business classics to be major inspirations for her. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Kate Parker recommends the Hammersley Brothers podcast for those in e-commerce, as it provides valuable insights. She also values funded courses for managerial and leadership development, which she takes advantage of through UK government schemes. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Kate Parker recommends using Excel as a versatile tool for small business growth. She finds it invaluable for tracking KPIs, managing cash flows, and creating profit and loss statements, making it a foundational resource for business management. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Kate Parker advises herself on day one of starting out in business to "be strong, keep the focus, and don't settle for less than you expect." This guidance emphasises resilience, clarity, and maintaining high standards. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Constantly improve your product; quality is key to retaining customers – Kate Parker Be clear about role expectations to avoid difficult conversations later – Kate Parker As a leader, be confident in your choices and stay true to your vision – Kate Parker