Small Business lifestyle

Vesna Hrsto is a dedicated naturopath who has overcome burnout in her own business to continue helping others with their health and wellness. From a young age, she knew that she wanted to pursue a career in natural medicine and has been committed to her passion. Her experience with burnout has shaped her approach to her work, and she now strives to help others prevent and recover from similar experiences. From dietary changes to mental and emotional stress management, this conversation delves into practical approaches to maintaining physical and mental health amidst the demands of entrepreneurship. Key Topics Understanding and Addressing Burnout - Vesna's personal experience with burnout - Warning signs of burnout - Impact of chronic stress on physical and mental health - Importance of self-care and recovery Managing Stress through Nutrition - Impact of diet on stress hormones and energy levels - Dietary changes to reduce stress - Supplements for managing stress - Importance of regular meals and healthy cooking Understanding and Managing Mental Stress - Coaching and meditation for mental stress reduction - Draining effects of mental and emotional stress on energy - Role of attitude and perspective in stress management - Practical approaches to quieting the mind Physical Health and Stress Management - Role of exercise in managing stress - Benefits of daily exercise and strength training - Balancing hormones and setting up routines for better physical health - Regular checkups and obtaining basic pathology tests Building Healthy Habits and Preventing Burnout - Establishing healthy habits to prevent burnout recurrence - Motivation and energy from seeing results of healthy habits - Importance of proper nutrition, exercise, bedtime, and routine in preventing burnout Timestamped overview: 00:00 Struggled with work and stress, led to burnout. 05:31 Manage physical stress with diet and habits. 09:21 Mental and emotional stress impact energy levels. 12:10 Maintaining clarity in mind enhances productivity. 14:48 Balancing downtime while running a thriving business. 18:08 Self-care is crucial to show up better. 21:27 Recommend pathology test, reduce stress, take action. 25:28 Eating breakfast reduces stress and boosts metabolism. 30:00 Creating energy-shift habits for motivation and progress. 33:41 Success comes from simplicity, one step at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trevor Henselwood started his career in Canadian Broadcasting before making the move to Australia to explore the digital space. As the head of growth at WebSavvy, Trevor has played a vital role in helping numerous eCommerce brands thrive, including some of the most beloved businesses in the nation. In this podcast Trevor explores the complexities of awareness marketing, offering valuable insights and practical advice for business owners and marketers alike. Listen in as he unpacks the challenges of measuring the impact of awareness marketing, the importance of brand messaging, the seesaw effect of investment and ROI, and the need to diversify marketing channels. Key Topics The Importance of Brand Messaging and Awareness Marketing - Creating a clear introduction to the brand - Highlighting the benefits of the product or service - Aligning the website with the brand message - Allocating a specific portion of the marketing budget for awareness (10-20%) - Importance of understanding different audience types and having benchmarks for performance Integrating Elements in Awareness Marketing - Challenges of integrating various elements in awareness marketing - Difficulty of measuring everything in awareness marketing - Importance of measuring success based on appropriate KPIs Marketing Strategies and Budgeting - Marketing budget for small businesses - Anticipating changes in the market - Knowing when to pull the marketing plug - The seesaw effect of investment and ROI Diversifying Marketing Channels - Diversifying marketing channels based on the target audience - Warning about the risk of diluting the brand message when diversifying channels - The importance of a consistent core campaign message across different channels Business ROAS and Holistic Measurement - The concept of business ROAS - Using alternate measures to show the effectiveness of awareness campaigns - How awareness marketing can help qualify more people for performance marketing Advice for Newcomers to Google Ads - Focusing on defining audiences and working on performance before venturing into awareness campaigns - Ensuring fulfillment and positive customer experiences before investing in ads Revisiting the Importance of Awareness Marketing in the Overall Marketing Mix - The importance of building an awareness strategy Timestamped overview 00:00 Started at WebSabbie, learned from Showpad, applied ideas. 04:09 Brands lack good awareness strategies, timing importance. 09:34 Measure marketing success accurately, invest in future. 11:37 Challenges in measuring marketing performance effectively. 15:38 ROI seesaw effect: Spend more, ROI drops, improves. 18:41 Explore channels, maximize audience for awareness campaigns. 23:12 Craft brand messaging strategically to engage customers. 26:10 Stay focused on future, data-driven decisions. 29:04 Focus on performance first, then build awareness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With a background rooted in a family skincare business, Olivia Jenkins brings over a decade of experience in navigating the ups and downs of the industry. From mastering the art of tenacity to juggling a career, pregnancy, and education, Olivia's journey is one of resilience and determination. She joins us on Flying Solo to share her top learnings from the world of e-commerce, brand strategy, and the power of platforms like TikTok to boost sales. Key topics E-commerce Strategy and Marketing: - The significant growth of e-commerce during the pandemic. - Advice for small businesses to embrace e-commerce. - Importance of an online strategy for established businesses. Growth Activities and Brand Exposure: - The necessity for businesses to focus 80-90% of their time on growth activities. - Social media, email marketing, and collaborations for brand exposure. - Maximizing effort and exposure through brand partnerships. Audience Engagement and Promotion: - Crucial role of list building through email and SMS marketing. - Recommendations for participating in sales events such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday. - Exercising caution to avoid eroding brand equity through continuous discounting. Customer Loyalty and Brand Authenticity: - Techniques for nurturing customer loyalty through authentic and personal communication. - Importance of staying close to the customer and nurturing VIP customers. - Building authenticity by communicating brand values and focusing on unique identity. TikTok Platform and Content Strategy: - Significance of TikTok as a platform with high engagement in health, beauty, fashion, and lifestyle industries. - Recommendations for quality content creation on TikTok, with an emphasis on posting frequency and music as an important element. - Utilization of TikTok's touch points and impressions for business presence. Time stamped overview 00:00 Key lessons from business journey and investors. 03:22 Childhood skincare brand dream, family business experience. 07:02 Transitioned from product to business consulting services. 10:39 Early focus on growth activities to gain exposure. 15:19 Inbox overload during retail events requires diversification. 18:00 Stay close to customers, focus on authenticity. 20:36 Understand yourself, communicate clearly, and avoid comparison. 24:45 Focus on TikTok, analyze posts, replicate successful content. 28:45 Encourages business plans for startup success. 29:54 Discipline and planning are crucial for success. 33:13 Grateful for the invitation, enjoyed being here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Pane is a seasoned psychologist and sociologist who has been aiding businesses and individuals in navigating uncertainty for over twenty years. Pane is the creator of the emotional fitness formula and is an authority on mindset. His new book, Courage To Be You, is filled with valuable advice on reframing feelings around uncertainty for a happier healthier existence. Key Topics Emotional Fitness and Resilience: - Understanding the emotional fitness formula and its five core principles - Overcoming desensitization to the term "resilience" - Cultivating hope on both macro and micro levels - Integrating ambition into meaning for resilience Strategies for Emotional Wellness: - Engaging in meaningful hobbies aligned with values - Implementing morning rituals for emotional fitness - Reevaluating busyness and prioritizing impactful activities - Setting up positive morning rituals to shift psychological shorelines toward positivity Self-Care and Prioritisation - Starting the day with "me time" for improved emotional fitness - Reevaluating daily tasks and focusing on impactful activities - Being loyal to personal values and creating boundaries - Prioritizing self-respect and self-care in the morning routine. Time-stamped Overview 00:00 Book on mastering uncertainty after 18 years. 03:26 Emotional fitness formula for navigating uncertainty's 5 principles. 06:33 Transition from ambition to meaning; navigating life. 11:31 Values are emotional compasses influencing decision-making. 14:53 Creating clean and healthy perspective for resilience. 18:51 Macro and micro hope: two levels explained. 21:38 Creating momentum with structure for emotional fitness. 24:21 Daily reset shapes day, prioritize morning rituals. 26:55 Set a low bar for entry, prioritize. 30:12 Initiating a morning me-time challenge for listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anna Glynn is a sales leadership specialist with a wealth of expertise in navigating the constantly evolving landscape of sales. Anna's new book, Strong, delivers evidence-based strategies to empower sales professionals and their teams with the knowledge they need to succeed. Anna shares her journey from selling homemade goods as an 8-year-old to becoming a sales professional in the corporate sector. She emphasizes the importance of mindset and toolset in achieving success in sales, highlighting the significance of resilience, optimism, and strong networks. Key Topics 1. Sales Success Factors - Emphasis on off-field factors such as mindset and toolset - Importance of resilience, optimism, and strong networks - Connecting with purpose as a motivating driver - Building and maintaining quality relationships for support and growth - Practical strategies for nurturing resilience and an optimistic mindset in sales teams 2. Leadership and Team Management - Fostering engagement and satisfaction to create thriving sales cultures - Importance of leadership in driving team performance and organizational success - Strategies for hiring and retaining motivated and autonomous sales staff - Creating supportive environments to help sales teams thrive during challenging times 3. Influence and Persuasion in Sales - Repositioning influence and persuasion as offering valuable solutions - Understanding and addressing customer needs and challenges - Nurturing prospects and converting relationships into sales - Strategies for closing deals and maximizing sales opportunities 4. Strong: Anna Glynn's Book - Background on the genesis of "Strong" and its focus on sales leadership strategies - Information about the book and where it can be found. Time-stamped overview 00:00 Success in sales comes from off-field factors. 04:10 Sales success: optimistic mindset, strong networks, purpose. 09:42 Sales teams face increasing challenges, need support. 13:41 Traits of optimists: positive, proactive, grateful. 16:45 Influencing customers by offering helpful products/services. 20:59 Maximize client nurturing for successful, easier sales. 25:28 Developed strong leadership through positive psychology exploration. 27:14 Identifying gaps and supporting sales teams effectively. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Cec Busby is joined by Charlotte Blair, the founder of Strength Partners and author of "Career Unstuck." Together, they dive into the intricacies of internal voices, self-assurance, and the power of community . Charlotte shares invaluable insights on managing limiting beliefs, harnessing personal strengths, and the transformative impact of building meaningful connections. Join us as we uncover practical tools and techniques for personal development and discover the courage to ask for help and navigate career and business obstacles. Key Topics 1. Managing Internal Voices and Emotions - Acknowledging and understanding the different voices in one's head - Empowering oneself to choose which voices drive one's decisions - Developing a growth mindset to learn and grow from challenges - Dealing with fight-flight-freeze responses and triggers, as per David Rock's SCARF model 2. Balancing Aspirations and Priorities for Business Owners - Managing limited resources as a business owner - Exploring practical tools and techniques for personal development in career and relationships - Personal experiences and insights into career struggles - Addressing limiting beliefs and imposter syndrome 3. Building Community and Support - The importance of networking and collaboration for solo workers - Cultivating connections and networking online - Virtual collaboration and increased hunger for connection post-pandemic - Transformative power of building relationships and cherishing virtual connections 4. Using Personal Strengths to Meet Goals - Discovering and naming personal values and strengths - Identifying talent through activities that bring fulfillment - Navigating roadblocks by intentional use of strengths - Seeking support systems like mentors and peer reviews Timestanped overview 00:00 Identifying and prioritizing values for motivation. 04:14 Finding talent through passion and time perception. 06:43 Solopreneurship requires intentional navigation and outsourcing. 12:07 Overcoming doubts to write a successful book. 13:52 Goal, reality, options, and the way forward. Coaching vs counselling for future and past. 19:24 Overcoming fears and doubts to move forward. 22:34 Autonomy, relatedness, and fairness influence feelings and behaviours. 25:42 Coaches collaborate, barter, and find mutual benefits. 28:50 Connect, reach out, and network effectively. 33:19 Book offers practical advice and recommendations for change. 34:36 Overcoming fear and seeking help is rewarding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jaqui Scammell is the CEO of ServiceQ and an expert with over 35 years of experience in customer service. On this week's episode of Flying Solo, Jaqui shares her journey from working at McDonald's to leading major stadium events, to ultimately founding ServiceQ with a mission to redefine service. Jaqui unpacks the impact of the pandemic on customer service, the essential elements of leadership, the human touchpoints and emotional elements of service , and the future of customer service in the face of advancing technology - Jaqui has coined this as 5D service. Are you ready to elevate your customer interactions? Key points Customer Service Challenges and Pandemic Impact - Amplified stress and pressure on people affecting customer service - Staff shortages and fear magnified existing service issues - Importance of crisis response preparation and running real scenarios in leadership programs Building Brand Reputation and Customer Loyalty - The significance of trustworthiness and delivering value to stand out in customer service - Trust issues affecting brand reputation globally - Loyalty as a valuable currency and the impact of consistent demonstration of trustworthiness 5D Service Principles for Business Improvement - Actioning the 5D service principles from Jacqui Scammell's book without delay - Guidance from the book for further support in overcoming challenges - Empowerment, confidence, and emotional intelligence in the workplace Predicted Changes in Customer Service and "5D Service" Framework - Increasing expectations, demand, and competitiveness with technology - The significance of human touch points despite the prevalence of AI and automation - Practical tips for delivering exemplary service and the importance of psychological safety and well-being in the workplace from "The Future of Service is 5D" Timestamped overview 00:00 McDonald's 'school of business' 03:49 A service mindset leads to personal growth and gratitude. 06:47 How to break down big projects into manageable chunks. 11:41 Balancing technology and human connection in business. 13:33 The multidimensional human connections in the workplace. 17:38 Leaders must empower and serve employees. 22:31 Practical ways to build mental agility. 25:19 Increased competitiveness, demand, and human preparedness. 27:04 Leadership programs include running real scenarios to improve decision-making, resilience, and cohesion for handling crises. 30:38 "Start yesterday. Buy the book." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Flying Solo, we're joined by business coach and entrepreneur and author Jim Cocks, as he shares his journey from performer to the corporate world to coaching and entrepreneurship. With a focus on understanding the ideal client, the significance of self-care, and strategies for building authentic connections, Jim provides valuable advice for aspiring and established entrepreneurs alike. Join us as we delve into the importance of mindset, embracing failure, and the importance of trust in client relationships.  We also get a sneak peek into his new book Build, Excite, Ignite which reveals how. to beat burnout and build a six figure business in 12 months. Key topics Understanding the Ideal Client and Self-Care - Identifying an ideal client persona for marketing and content creation - Seeking direct feedback from ideal clients through market research - Importance of self-care and selectively choosing clients Pricing, Genuine Connections, and Business Purpose - Setting prices based on value offered and building authentic client relationships - Identifying the driving "why" behind a business for success - Embracing failure as a tool for growth and learning Overcoming Challenges and Self-Belief - Managing comparison and self-belief in achieving success - Combating imposter syndrome with mindset shifts and evidence of success Navigating Business Startup and Niche Specialization - Initial openness to opportunities while narrowing down a niche - Emphasizing the importance of becoming a specialist in a specific area Business Evolution and Personal Growth - Flexibility and continual refinement of business niche - Embracing networking, progress, and change for new entrepreneur   Time stamped overview 00:00 Transition from performing to corporate, seeking freedom. 05:32 Entrepreneur sharing story to inspire and empower. 09:46 Belief in self is key to success. 10:54 Addressing imposter syndrome by acknowledging and reframing. 13:47 Startup advice: Say yes, specialize but evolve. 18:00 Valuing community support for personal and professional growth. 23:35 Price influences trust and value in services. 27:07 Take small steps, network, and own change. 27:58 Simplicity and sharing are crucial for startup success.   Host Cec Busby Producer Michael Marren Guest Jim Cocks. Find out more about Jim here. Buy his new book, Build, Ignite Excite. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Flying Solo we're joined by Radek Sali, a visionary entrepreneur, investor, and former CEO of Swiss Wellness, which he successfully sold for a staggering $1 billion. Join Cec Busby, as she delves into Radek's fascinating entrepreneurial journey - from his early experiences working in the cinema industry to his transition into the realm of health and wellness. Radek shares the influence of his parents' unconventional medical approaches and refugee background on his business decisions, shedding light on the pivotal moments that shaped his path to success. Tune in as Radek discusses the challenges, triumphs, and pivotal moments that fueled his entrepreneurial spirit, offering invaluable insights and lessons learned along the way. Key Topics Career transition - Initial career in the cinema industry - Transition to working at Swiss Wellness and differences observed in company culture and operations - Learnings from the cinema industry and how they influenced Radek's approach to business management and leadership Business Strategy and Marketing - Evolution of Swiss Wellness' marketing approach from traditional vitamin marketing to lifestyle-based product promotion - Securing the company's first brand ambassadorship with Ricky Ponting - Decision-making process behind working with Ricky Ponting and the marketing strategy shift towards health benefits and lifestyle products - Sponsorship of the cricket team and "Dancing with the Stars" to expand consumer base and promote the brand - Unique advertising tactics employed by Swiss Wellness, including being voted "most annoying advert" on a radio show - Emphasis on the importance of cultural values and principles in shaping the company's culture Entrepreneurship and Business Leadership - Radek's journey as an entrepreneur and his initial reluctance to identify as one - Passion for business and the function of business within society, capitalism, and democracy - Foundational skills from studying law, cinema, and politics - Learnings from working in the entertainment industry and managing challenges and customer interactions - Challenges and opportunities in business, emphasizing openness, authenticity, and accountability within the team Influence of Upbringing and Parental Background on Radek's Business Decisions - Parents' background in non-conventional medicine and its influence on Radek's approach to business and wellness - Aligning business principles with commitment, structure, and cultural values, influenced by his parents Timstamped overview 00:00 Language and law studies influenced career choices. 05:26 Enjoyed customer interactions, challenges, and problem-solving. 08:43 Father, professor, mentor, leader in health industry. 12:19 Swiss organization growth through brand ambassadorship. 15:27 How Ricky Ponting became a successful brand. 18:21 Cricket audience influenced women's product shopping trend. 20:59 Focus on culture, values, and positive language. 25:10 Leadership requires commitment, vision, and strong values. 29:09 Struggling with growth and passion, transitioning out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard Turner is a renowned Australian entrepreneur, innovator and business leader. He's a former Australian Entrepreneur of the Year and the founder of several billion-dollar companies. When it comes to entrepreneurship, Richard is an expert. He's a specialist in re-invention and industry disruption. He is passionate about sustainability and wants to assist businesses in achieving their purpose and potential. He's the author of The Essential Entrepreneur, and if you want sound advice on the fundamentals of business success, Richard should be your go-to. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you tired of wasting money on marketing that doesn't work? You're not alone. Fortunately, this week's guest, Amy Miocevich, has the answer. Amy is a sought-after marketing expert, founder of Lumos Agency and the author of The Very Good Marketing Guide. On this episode, Amy shares her advice on building your marketing strategy, turning strangers into loyal superfans, and identifying and overcoming bottlenecks in your business. She reveals the importance of prioritising consistency and relationship-building to maximise the value of customers, and also explains why you should always position the customer as the hero. Tune in to learn how to apply these easy marketing strategies to your own business. Episode notes: [02:24] The biggest marketing mistake small businesses make [04:42] Understanding the linear journey from stranger to superfan [08:06] Building your marketing strategy into day-to-day business [10:42] Choosing the right marketing professional – questions to ask [13:46] Measuring marketing success – it's NOT all about sales [17:52] How much of your budget should you spend on marketing? [20:12] Identifying bottlenecks that are letting your marketing down [23:54] Consistency over exceptional: The key to success [28:00] The power of positioning your customer as the hero [32:52] Strategies for turning strangers into superfans for consistent action. [25:26] Creating a fortress around time is key for productivity. [28:43] Struggling to disconnect and focus? You might be a control freak. [32:22] Setting the right conditions for peak productivity. [36:06] Invest in yourself: the final piece of the procrastination puzzle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're ready to make the shift from procrastinator to productive force to be reckoned with, listen up. Sam Tornatore is a performance coach, neuro change practitioner and productivity expert who has been helping business owners and professionals overcome procrastination and achieve their biggest goals for 20 years. In this episode, Sam unpacks the causes of procrastination, from common fears to outdated belief systems, and shares his best advice to overcome them. He reveals his top tips for reaching peak productivity and the power of investing in yourself to create the success you wish for. Tune in to find out how to identify your own causes for procrastination and the steps to take to kick procrastination to the kerb. Topics covered in this podcast episode: 1. Identifying procrastination Procrastination robs us of our right to be excellent Awareness to action - the keys to overcoming procrastination Reasons we procrastinate and signs to watch out for Common fears and stepping out of the comfort zones they create Overcoming our inability to take action, making excuses and blaming others. 2. The power of investing in yourself and pursuing passions Putting yourself first is necessary for success – treat yourself like a VIP and others will too Building self-awareness, taking responsibility and changing your narrative The importance aligning goals to your core values - Passion cannot be imposed on us by others How to identify and eliminate limiting belief systems and fears 3. Goal-setting and productivity The power of rewards for consistent action - not just achievements Avoid setting overwhelming goals - how do you eat an elephant? Guarding your time - setting conditions for uninterrupted work increases productivity How to create a distraction-free environment to achieve maximum productivity Episode timestamps [02:45] Procrastination root causes – what's stopping you from taking action? [06:52] Awareness stops procrastination; excuses are warning signs. [09:08] Common fears that cause procrastination. [12:32] Changing the narrative and challenging childhood belief systems. [17:36] Identifying your passion is imperative to caring about goals. [20:57] The power of breaking down goals + rewards for consistent action. [25:26] Creating a fortress around time is key for productivity. [28:43] Struggling to disconnect and focus? You might be a control freak. [32:22] Setting the right conditions for peak productivity. [36:06] Invest in yourself: the final piece of the procrastination puzzle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Natasha McNamara is a vocal coach and communication specialist who assists everyone from politicians and CEOs to business leaders and small business owners to communicate more effectively. Whether it's tackling a difficult conversation, learning how to present with more confidence or understanding the importance of active listening … Tash has can teach you the communication skills you need to succeed. Now he shares some of her secrets … Episode notes In this episode Natasha unpacks: How the pandemic has impacted our communication skills (1m30s) The importance of active listening and soft skills (5m10s) Presentation skills – preparation + storytelling (7m50s) Difficult conversations – creating a safe space (13m40s) Tips to become a more active listener (19m30s) The power of building rapport (23m) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What Debbie O'Connor doesn't know about brand building isn't worth mentioning. As the author of Brand Magic - How to Build a Brand with Personality, Debbie understands just what it takes to create a brand that customers connect with – and let's say it's more than simply getting creative with a logo. Debbie has over twenty years of experience working with businesses helping them to create beloved brands, and her creative agency White River Designs is one of the most awarded in Australia. If you want to find out how to make branding or brand building a foundation of your business, then listen up, as Debbie has some incredible advice to share that could help you take your business next level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we sit down with digital marketing expert Meg Coffey, founder of Coffey and Tea, to delve into the intricate world of social media content planning. Meg shares valuable insights on leveraging AI for idea generation, the importance of niche targeting in business, and the evolving trends in social media platforms. As the founder of State of Social, Australia's digital marketing conference, Meg brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the conversation. Key topics Social Media Content Planning and Strategy - Image and link sourcing, client approval, and scheduling - Integrating AI for content backfilling and idea generation - Measuring success and trends for 2024 Building Connections Through Authentic Engagement - Leveraging storytelling and user-generated content - Emphasizing social media etiquette and authenticity Adapting to Changes in Social Media Platforms - Understanding and adapting to platform changes - Focusing on niche markets for business success Importance of Analytics and Business Sustainability - Utilizing analytics and insights for content refinement - Providing value to customers through social media Evolution of Social Media Platforms - Changes and trends in social media over the past year - Embracing new features like Twitter threads for engagement Time-stamped overview 05:29 Social media's impact has changed communication significantly. 07:58 Facebook essential, but niche communities gaining popularity. 12:46 Adapt posts based on event and community feedback. 14:39 Adding value through light, humor, and teaching. 16:58 User-generated content has shifted in marketing. 22:10 Be yourself, do what works for you. 24:37 Collect emails, predict strong future for platform. 28:51 Strategic campaign resulted in reaching 10,000 followers. 32:24 Seeking diverse ways to enhance business communication. 33:27 Learning to ask good questions is valuable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ros Weadman  is an expert on trust – in fact when it comes to brand reputation – she's written a book on it - Enhance your Reputation – How to build a brand that people want to work for, buy from and invest in. In it, she delivers actionable advice to help you build a business that is steeped in trust. Ros joins us on the show to explain why trust is such a vital component of business success, how you can gain your customer's trust andi what to do should the worse happen and you lose it… Key topics The Changing Landscape of Trust and Reputation - Impact of declining trust and rise of fake news on business - Importance of trust in branding, workplace, and consumer behavior - Building a credible and purpose-driven brand to align with changing expectations Strategies for Brand Positioning and Public Profile Building - Leveraging social media for consistent brand messaging - Empowering employees as brand ambassadors - Creating a brand manifesto and aligning values with marketing strategy - Forming strategic alliances and collaborations for brand credibility Enhancing Reputation and Communicating Brand Values - Defining purpose, vision, and mission to enhance reputation - Strategies for attracting the right customers and employees - Communication strategies to articulate the brand's vision and values   Timestamped overview 00:00 Low trust in institutions, businesses most trusted. 06:38 Strategic brand alignment crucial for organizational success. 08:01 Define brand values, create actionable behaviors, manifest. 12:36 Specialist problem solving, brand archetype framework alignment. 16:03 Empower your staff to be brand ambassadors. 19:00 Passionate about building brand trust and purpose. 24:05 Effective communication and strategic marketing are crucial. 25:11 Plan content, identify platforms, and promote purpose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steve McKnight is an expert when it comes to personal finance and money management. He's a self-made multi-millionaire, real estate mogul and a financial educator. He joins us to share insider tips from his book Money Magnet and gives us valuable insights into attracting money, building wealth, and creating a purpose-driven financial future. Key Topics Mindset and Attracting Money ·     Attracting money as a learnable skill ·     Insider tips from Steve's book "Money Magnet" ·     Influence of childhood experiences with money on financial habits ·     Contrast between parents' financial habits and their effect on Steve's mindset ·     Importance of having money conversations in relationships ·     The possibility of changing one's money mindset and seeking help to do so Real Estate and Wealth Creation ·     Early investment experience with term deposit and first investment property in 1999 ·     Challenges of property investment and the need for new real estate buying tactics ·     Viewing real estate as a means of creating wealth rather than the only option ·     Importance of investing in what is understood and managing finances ·     Acquiring skills to increase returns without higher risks ·     Emphasizing accountability to avoid indulgent spending and financial traps Financial Vision and Habits ·     Inheritance of parents' financial DNA and its impact on financial habits ·     Money as a tool with a purpose, rather than just accumulating wealth ·     The significance of delayed gratification and discipline in achieving financial goals ·     Influence of consumer-driven society and social media on spending habits ·     Perils of debt and the need to develop better money habits ·     Shifting from survival to significance and casting a vision for a new financial future ·     Formula for wealth creation and McKnight's advice on mastering financial skills and passing on knowledge Philanthropy and Legacy ·     The importance of not letting wealth stem from insecurity or the need to impress others ·     Concept of two mountains: survival and significance ·     Poor money habits to avoid ·     The significance of philanthropy and the organization Tree Change in that regard ·     Advices on property investments and McKnight's top three investing tips Timestamped overview 00:00 Attracting money and wealth. 03:32 Started with term deposit, now property expert. 08:42 Wealth can stem from insecurity and desire. 12:09 Living without vision, purpose - invest for the future. 15:02 Wealth creation formula lies in spending, investing, and returns. 17:40 3 tips: Measure and learn to multiply money. 22:22 Influencers shape our desires consider long-term impact. 24:57 Debt can lead to financial disempowerment. 27:14 Passionate about creating native forests for eco-restoration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tracy Sheen is an AI and digital expert with a focus on helping small businesses to stay informed on the latest tech trends. She's the author of The End of Technophobia, and she's about to launch a new book that reveals everything you need to know about how you can use AI for your business. She joins us today to give us a bit of a sneak peek and share her top tips for AI and tech in 2024. Key topics The Impact of AI on Business and Education   - Overwhelm and struggle to keep up with technological advancements   - Concerns about the impact of AI on jobs and industries   - Mixed feelings about the use of AI in education Practical Tips for Businesses in the AI Era   - Embracing curiosity and exploring new tools and possibilities   - Utilizing AI tools like Chat GPT for business purposes   - Conducting research and keeping prompts clear for better AI responses   - Being cautious about signing up for annual agreements and exploring monthly options Leveraging AI for Business Automation and Efficiency   - Implementing AI solutions to save time and money   - Using chatbots for engaging clients, suppliers, and teams   - AI solutions for financial management, HR, and recruitment   - Integrating systems for streamlined processes Identifying and Adapting to Technological Trends   - Looking outside industries to identify trends before they impact businesses   - Tracy Sheen's framework ARTIFICIAL for assessing and leveraging technology   - Cautious evaluation of new technology platforms before making long-term commitments   - Utilising platforms like AppSumo for discovering new products and deals Auditing and Optimizing Existing Tech Tools   - Conducting a full audit of existing tech tools and subscriptions   - Using ChatGPT for generating social media headlines aligned with brand personality   - Promoting technology workshops on AI for businesses   - Benefits of the all-in-one platform Sweet Dash for streamlining business processes. Timestamped overview 01:46 AI like Chat GPT is game-changing. 06:19 Fast-paced business change makes platforms irrelevant. 08:29 Average age of Aussie business owners 50; they feel overwhelmed by technology and keeping up with trends. 10:47 How AI can help you to explore creativity and possibilities in everyday life. 18:25 Framework for leveraging AI for business productivity. 23:17 Integration, client portal, caution with platforms. 27:26 Review, cut costs, identify needs, get curious. 28:35 Generate social media headlines effortlessly with ChatGPT. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're thinking of starting a side hustle - business coach and workplace expert Michelle Gibbings has you covered. In this episode of Flying Solo, Michelle shares invaluable wisdom gained from her own experience, including the importance of testing and developing a business concept while still employed, strategic planning, systematic approaches, and documenting processes. She emphasises the significance of finding a niche, seeking mentorship, and aligning expenditures with business goals. Tune in to discover the key components of running a successful business when you're starting from scratch. Key topics Transitioning from a corporate career to starting a business: - Desire for autonomy leading to starting a business - Financial advice and stability before venturing into entrepreneurship - Managing expenses during challenging times Strategies for running a successful business: - Systematic approach and task management - Documentation of processes and importance of organization - Assessing the market and finding a niche - Setting milestones and tracking progress - Seeking advice and mentorship strategically - Considering legal and financial aspects of the business structure Balancing work and personal well-being: - Celebrating wins and recognizing personal achievements - Having a support system and prioritizing self-care - Work-life balance and maintaining good physical and mental health Financial literacy and managing business finances: - Importance of understanding financial metrics and statements - Training courses and online tools for improving financial literacy - Analyzing financial data and asking the right questions Building a positive workplace culture and fostering employee well-being: - Cultivating a culture aligned with company values - Prioritizing connection and face-to-face interactions - Clear communication on ownership of intellectual property - Transparency and conversations with the organization Time-stamped overview 02:22 Taking a leap, figuring it out, good advice. 03:31 Fortunate career, supportive husband, strategic financial decisions. 06:27 Test, develop and prepare for entrepreneurial success. 10:50 Seek advice, learn, and set boundaries in business. 13:36 Annual business plan, SWOT analysis, updates. 17:22 Set financial targets to invest time and money. Evaluate progress. 21:08 Get good lawyers, accountants, and mentors. 26:19 Understanding financial statements and using online tools makes managing finances easier. It's important to educate yourself and ask questions to avoid potential legal issues. 27:28 Accounting systems now have easy, real-time dashboards. Maintaining a positive culture is crucial. 31:16 Online work has benefits, but not always. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Flying Solo, Olivia Carr founder of Shhh Silk opens up about her own entrepreneurial journey, from experiencing financial hardship to launching a successful silk pillowcase business that is beloved by celebrities and every day consumers all around the globe. Olivia shares valuable insights on mindset training, building relationships with influential figures, and the importance of taking daily action to achieve your goals. This is an episode you don't want to miss! Key Topics Entrepreneurial Journey - Starting her first business at 24 - Winning the World Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2007 with a touring educational business called Shows For Kids - Experiencing burnout, working in corporate roles, and in a breast cancer foundation - Returning to entrepreneurship and launching a silk pillowcase business, ZILK, 8 years ago - Idea for silk pillowcases coming from a lost case during a trip and wanting an improved version with a zipper - Travelling to China to research silk and manufacture the product - PR plan involving hand-delivering the silk pillowcases to the Kardashian family Building Relationships and PR for Business Growth - Emphasizing importance of celebrity endorsements for brand's growth - Collaborations with prestigious hotels - Advise for small brands to grow in their biggest markets simultaneously - Importance of trying to gain traction in the American market early on Self Made Academy and Mindset Training - The launch of Self Made Academy - Importance of mindset training and daily discipline to build confidence and self-belief - Impact of support and mentorship in entrepreneurship journey Financial Insights and Empowerment for Women - Helping women with wealth creation and financial habits - Advocacy against hustle culture and emphasis on a strategic approach to work Overcoming Challenges in Entrepreneurship - Emphasizing the importance of self-belief and overcoming challenges in entrepreneurship - Unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs - Transition from putting others first to solely focusing on their business Team Management and Work-Life Balance - Giving team autonomy but checking in with them regularly - Prioritizing mental well-being and advocating for therapy - Managing self-limiting beliefs and past trauma - Valuing creative thinking and random acts of kindnes Business Growth Strategies and Creative Thinking - Heavy focus on PR, gifting, and events in America during the first 3 years of the brand - The impact of creating memorable moments for individuals - Highlighting the importance of thinking creatively Timestamped overview 01:25 Pregnant with 2nd child, launched successful business. 06:29 Unexpectedly arriving at a celebrity's gated community. 09:43 Focusing on fun in business brings success. 13:47 Focused heavily on PR, gifting, and events. 15:01 Grow biggest markets simultaneously for brand success. 19:50 Author reflects on missed book launch opportunities. 23:29 Choose mindset, confidence, and commitment to succeed. 26:17 Old boss taught discipline and mindset principles. 28:02 Daily nature walk, prioritize tasks, advocate for balance. 32:24 Free mental health coaching for small business owners. 36:40 Simple actions yield powerful financial transformations for women Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael McQueen is a renowned expert in the field of human behaviour and change. His latest book, "Mindstuck," delves into the complexities of why individuals find themselves trapped in unproductive patterns of thinking and behaviour. McQueen explores the dichotomy between the two minds we possess and tackles the pressing question of why people struggle to change, despite their desires and knowledge of what is best for them. He sheds light on the nature of stubbornness and its detrimental impact on personal growth. And offers invaluable insights and strategies for understanding customer behaviour. Key topics The Nature of the Human Mind and Decision Making - Difference between an inquiring mind and an instinctive mind  - The inquiry mind: methodical, rational, linear, used for 5-10% of decisions  - The instinctive mind: associated with the limbic system, processes emotion, identifies patterns or threats, leads to stubbornness - Impact of fight, fright, and freeze response on decision making - Importance of retraining the brain to focus on thoughtful choices  - Mind is bigger than the brain, includes gut and heart instincts  - Intuition can be a useful guide, but should be balanced with rational thinking  - Consideration of multiple perspectives, stepping back from us versus them mentality  - Taking time to rest and sleep to make better decisions - Smart people are prone to being illogical and believing in conspiracy theories The Art of Persuasion - Understanding what makes people "mind stuck" - Challenges in achieving behavior change when people want to and know they should - The role of the inquiry mind vs. the instinctive mind in influencing decisions - Strategies for effective persuasion  - Consideration of the 3rd story perspective  - Challenging assumptions and experiences that inform certainty  - Encouraging critical thinking and consideration of different perspectives The Book "Mind Stuck: Mastering the Art of Changing Minds" - Introduction to the book and its focus on the nature of the human mind - Exploration of the concepts of the inquiry mind and instinctive mind - Examination of the impact of the fight, fright, freeze response on decision making - Strategies for retraining the brain and making thoughtful choices - Discussion on the connection between intelligence and illogical decision making - Overview of the broader topic of persuasion and behavior change Personal and Business Applications - Personal implications of understanding the nature of the human mind and decision making - Implications for effective communication and relationship building - Applications in business and leadership contexts - Case studies and examples of the impact of understanding and leveraging the mind in decision making and persuasion strategies  Timestamped overview 00:01:40 Two minds define how we process information. 00:05:39 Consider perspectives, pause, sleep, make thoughtful decisions. 00:09:39 Social media reinforces echo chambers, increasing confirmation bias. 00:12:56 Disagree constructively, listen to different views. 00:16:33 "Oxytocin and connection: vulnerability, authenticity, and openness." 00:19:18 Influence teams with trust, affinity, and persuasion. 00:21:13 Appeal to instinctive mind before logical reasoning. Be real, authentic, and don't upsell. 00:25:31 "Recognize challenge, frame suggestion as extension." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kevin Higgins is the executive director at Vantage Performance, and he is passionate about creating more resilient businesses. When it comes to the ins and outs of financing, Kevin is an expert and in this episode of Flying Solo, he shares all the tips you need to know to help you put your business in the best position to access finance. He understands that one of the main challenges in securing funding is the lack of clear visibility and timely information provided to funders. Kevin shares invaluable insights on managing working capital, the role of banks in funding peaks and troughs, and the importance of accurate and well-articulated financial forecasting. Key topics Importance of a Secure Balance Sheet - Funders rely less on personal assets with a secure balance sheet - Be cautious when giving personal guarantees - Negotiate to remove personal guarantees if possible Managing Working Capital and Cash Flow - Working capital includes debtors, creditors, and stock - Banks evaluate debt collection efficiency and stock turnover - Maintain a tight cash conversion cycle - Banks fund peaks and troughs in working capital Creating Accurate Forecasts - Lack of diligence in forecasts can be a problem - Banks and funders perform what-if scenarios - Visibility and knowledge of numbers are crucial - Three-way forecasts (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow) are important Strategies for Financial Health - Focus on paying down debt and lowering debt - Strengthen the balance sheet by reducing debt - Evaluate viability before considering funding options Increasing Resilience and Confidence - Resilience increases chances of survival in economic headwinds - Factors of resilience include sales conversion rate, cash flow management, and knowing strengths - Demonstrate resilience for creditworthiness and lower loan pricing - Have a clear business plan and involve the management team Building Trust - Regular communication and honest conversations with funders - Flexibility and trust are important criteria for funders - Develop ongoing dialogue and trust with bankers - Confidence is key in securing funding Timestamped overview [00:01:23] Funding challenges stem from lack of visibility. [00:04:04] Monitor working capital, improve cash conversion cycle. Sense check assumptions in financial forecasts. [00:08:05] Debtors, debtor days, management team, ideal customers, consolidated creditors. [00:12:01] Test companies' resilience with a score of 50. Low scores indicate possible failure in the future. Improving resilience boosts confidence with banks. Key factors include sales conversion rate and cash flow management. Identify business strengths to avoid overextension. [00:15:33] Focus on paying down debt to strengthen balance sheet. [00:19:12] Successful strategy requires good people and adaptability, knowing numbers. [00:20:59] Accounting packages provide monthly financial reports. [00:26:23] Funders need to be flexible and trustworthy. [00:30:38] Strengthen business, avoid high interest rate loans. [00:32:16] Caution among lenders as economy recovers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friska Wirya is a change management expert who helps big businesses implement change to tackle the future of work. However, her strategies are equally applicable to small businesses. Friska joins us to share her insights on how you can prepare your business to face the challenges of the future. Join us as we discuss the background of change management, the importance of embracing change, and practical ways to overcome resistance. Get ready to transform your business and step into the future with Friska Wirya on Flying Solo. Key topics covered Change Management for Small Businesses - The human-centered nature of change management makes it applicable to businesses of all sizes - Tools, techniques, and strategies in change management remain the same regardless of the company's size - Importance of influencing people to feel psychologically safe and cultivating innovation and growth in businesses Understanding Resistance to Change - People naturally resist change due to fear of losing power, prestige, protection, performance, pay, or position - The importance of recognizing which specific "P" employees may feel under threat about - Overcoming resistance through education, co-creation, and involvement of employees in shaping the change Importance of Co-Creation in Change Management - The value of having employees contribute to shaping change, increasing their support and engagement - Comparison to the Ferrari sales experience, where customers are more likely to make a purchase after customizing their car - Giving people a chance to have "skin in the game" reduces resistance and increases commitment to the change process Continual Process of Change Management - Change management is an ongoing process and not a one-time event - The initial consultation is just the beginning, and businesses should recognize the need for ongoing change and adaptation - Importance of effectively managing change to prevent regression and stay future-fit in the dynamic business environment. Time stamped oveerview [00:01:41] Interest in change management sparked unfulfilled career. [00:05:45] AI threatens jobs, performance management and involvement. [00:09:40] Encourage continuous learning, leaders and communication. [00:12:25] Preempt customer needs, stress test approaches, adapt. [00:16:46] Training, support, coaching, transparency, celebration boost change. [00:20:37] Seek expert support, upskill, test ideas, minimize failure, be future fit: Alvin Toffler's quote emphasizes the importance of learning, relearning, and unlearning behaviors that no longer serve us. [00:22:07] Reflect on goals, assess behaviors, achieve success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Evelina Bereni is an expert in assisting businesses to be more creative and embrace transformation. In this episode, Evelina will be sharing her insights on the importance of creativity and problem-solving in business, and why innovation should be a part of our everyday routines. We'll be diving into the ProSci methodology, microdosing fear, the power of diverse stimulus, and so much more. This episode is jam-packed with practical tips and strategies to help you take your business to new heights. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by Evelina Bereni on this episode of Flying Solo! Key Topics Change management and innovation: - Introducing the ProSci methodology - Building awareness about innovation - Training people on how to innovate - Importance of active and visible sponsorship for innovation Creativity and stimulus: - Using different stimuli to enhance creativity - Bringing hidden creative ideas to the conscious - Examples of using stimuli in virtual sessions and personal experiences Failure, risk-taking, and experimentation: - Microdosing fear for enhanced focus - Learning lessons through experimentation and hypothesis testing - Importance of small failures and avoiding colossal failures Understanding customer needs for innovation: - Observing and interviewing customers to gain insights - Understanding barriers for non-consumers - Developing future products and services based on customer insights AI and productivity enhancement: - Running master classes on using AI to enhance productivity - AI augmenting roles, not replacing them - Importance of building AI capability to stay relevant Collaboration and involving the whole business: - Driving innovation through collaboration and buy-in - Valuable insights from frontline employees - Involving everyone who can add value or create change Capacity, burnout, and work-life balance: - Limited capacity to complete work and its negative impacts - Burnout becoming more common, especially in small businesses - Importance of managing work-life balance and well-being Time stamped overview [00:02:05] Work overload leads to burnout, affecting well-being. [00:06:17] Use diverse stimulus to boost creative thinking. [00:07:23] Diverse stimulus helps trigger subconscious memories. [00:12:28] Risk taking and openness to failure drive innovation. [00:15:35] Understand customer needs, close accessibility gaps, innovate. [00:20:07] Innovation through collaboration adds value and success. [00:23:29] AI enhances productivity, augmenting roles, not replacing. [00:25:57] Metrics needed for successful innovation processes. [00:28:44] Incremental, breakthrough, and disruptive innovation percentages. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tess McCabe is a graphic designer, author, marketing expert, and publisher. She has recently released a groundbreaking book titled Self Promotion Without Social Media. In this episode, Tess shares her insights and expertise on how to effectively promote your business without getting lost in the constant grind of content creation on social media. As a fellow solopreneur, Tess understands the struggles and challenges faced by small business owners when it comes to self-promotion. She provides valuable advice on connecting with customers, building relationships, and standing out in a crowded marketplace. We'll dive into topics such as personal branding, networking, website optimisation, reviews and testimonials, and the power of word-of-mouth. Join us as we explore alternative ways to promote your business and free yourself from the overwhelm of social media. Key Topics Self-Promotion Strategies - Understanding target clients and attracting them - Building personal relationships and showcasing expertise - Importance of attending events and networking - Effective communication and tweaking the message - Promoting through website, blog, and newsletter content - Offering lead magnets or incentives to attract ideal clients - Communicating the purpose and goals of the business - Building trust through effective communication - Building relationships with clients and customers Importance of Visibility and Different Channels - Different promotional activities for different types of businesses - Key channels like social media and website - Consistency and professionalism in presenting the business Paying to Promote Content and Utilising Marketing Avenues - Spending money to create high-quality engaging content - Paying to promote the content for attracting new audiences - Conversations with clients about optimization and marketing strategies Preparation and Confidence in Self-Promotion - Importance of preparation in self-promotion - Effectively communicating what you do, who you work with, and why - Practicing simple statements for clear communication - Building confidence through preparation - Attending events and bringing support if needed Reviews and Testimonials for Promoting Business - Sending prompts to clients for writing reviews - Including client promotions within the review - Placing reviews in portfolio and linking to client's website - Personal anecdotes and stories in the speaker's book Organic Connections and Word-of-Mouth Marketing - Personal experience with trade shows and local markets - Side project leading to a client, friend, and colleague - Value of word-of-mouth and social proof - Gathering reviews and testimonials from clients Timestamped overview 00:01:56 Book design, small business support, website design. 00:04:22 Struggles with promoting business on social media. 00:07:30 Visibility key for business, varies by type. Use multiple channels consistently and professionally. 00:11:31 Prepare and practice promoting yourself in networking. 00:13:44 Passion, values, trust: keys to entrepreneurship. 00:17:17 Client reviews provide opportunities for self-promotion. 00:21:43 Interest in ideal clients and how they find you. 00:24:55 Networking events help build business connections. 00:28:17 Meeting turned friendship and business collaboration. Organic marketing success story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donna McGeorge, one of our favourite productivity experts, and she joins us today to help you prepare for the busiest time of the year. With sales season and the holidays approaching, business owners face increasing challenges in juggling tasks. But fear not, Donna will share loads of practical advice on harnessing AI's power to streamline your processes, optimise your productivity, and ultimately save you time and mental energy. Whether it's using ChatGPT for written communication or exploring the AI features in popular programs like Microsoft and Google, Donna's insights will help you make the most of these tools now! Key topics AI and Productivity - Use of AI and ChatGPT in businesses to save time and mental energy - Using ChatGPT for business: such as written comms, emails, proposals, and presentations - Time-saving benefits of using Chat GPT for everyday administrative tasks - Integration of AI in popular programs like Microsoft and Google Processes to Improve Productivity - First lever to create time: Streamlining meetings - Importance of quality and effectiveness in meetings - Evaluating your time - Advocating for shorter meetings, such as 25-minute meetings - Importance of defining the purpose and outcomes of each meeting - Purpose-driven meetings over detailed agendas Timestamped overview [00:01:45] Save time and energy with Chat GPT, 37 per cent time savings. [00:05:21] Fewer meetings means more productivity and relief. [00:08:40] Remote vs. office productivity depends on work. [00:10:21] Prioritize high impact tasks for efficient days. [00:14:44] Working at the right level for success. [00:16:41] Prioritize time wisely, focus on important tasks. [00:21:34] Feeling overwhelmed? Write down everything. [00:23:57] Working longer hours doesn't lead to more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Now, if you think that transformation is only in the realm of big business, it's time to reshape your view. Transformation is a precursor to innovation, and today's guest knows all about it. Adam Bennett is the author of Great Change – The Way to Get Big Strategy Done. He's a former CEO and big four bank CIO, and these days, he devotes his time to management consulting, where he assists businesses of all sizes through transformational change. If you're ready to reshape your business for the better, listen up as Adam has plenty of great advice. Key Topics Transformation in Business - Three elements of transformation: external disruption/opportunity, strategy/choice, action/implementation - The importance of implementation for an effective strategy - Universal principles applicable to small and large businesses - Crucial mindset elements for successful business operation: curiosity, humility, openness to change - The consequences of clinging onto old ways of thinking - The role of ambition and urgency in the organization and individuals - Stepping outside the company's perspective to view the business through the customers' eyes - Aligning business operations to meet current and future customer needs - Gathering customer feedback for valuable insights - Analyzing and acting upon customer feedback Fear and Uncertainty in Business Transformation - Fear stemming from uncertainty and potential job loss - Transformation leading to different ways of doing things and requiring new skills - Importance of honesty, transparency, and directness with employees about potential outcomes Leadership and Management - Definition of leadership as taking people on a journey and adapting to change - Definition of management as dealing with complexity and being efficient - Distinction between leadership and management - Important qualities in leadership: sensitivity to the world, aspiration for transformation Small Business Operations and Reflection - Need for focus and thoughtfulness in small businesses due to limited resources - Experimentation with strategies to remain competitive - Varying impact of AI on different industries - Recommendation for small business owners to experiment with AI tools like GPT for operation enhancement - Utilizing AI as a complementary tool, not a replacement - Time-saving and expanded thinking capabilities of AI in business management. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're a small business owner, chances are there have been times when you've put your health and wellbeing into the too hard basket. But today's guest, Dr Brett Lillie, believes it doesn't have to be that way. By rediscovering the 'athlete within' Dr Brett says you can rekindle your love for movement and find your mojo to live a happier, healthier life. He joins us today to share some science-backed strategies from his new book Rediscover Your Athlete Within, which will get you moving and grooving again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If presenting to an audience or pitching to clients is part of the bread and butter of your business, then today's guest has some fantastic strategies to share. David Fish is a renowned keynote speaker and author whose new book, What It Takes To Create Winning Presentations, delivers some fabulous advice on how to employ storytelling to connect, engage and convince. If you'd like to become a more effective communicator, listen up as David has a wealth of experience in the advertising industry, working on strategic thinking and creating impactful campaigns for big brands. While his keynote 'Attitude for Altitude' catapulted him onto the world speakers stage with its message of personal growth and triumph over adversity. So buckle up as we this inspiring aviator takes flight on the latest episode of Flying Solo. Key Topics and Talking Points Telling your story effectively   - Ineffective content delivery hinders the impact of great ideas and strategic thinking   - Emphasis on story structuring and content organization, not just presenter skills   - Significance of structuring and delivering information in business presentations From Blimps to Flying Solo   - David's childhood fascination with blimps and their town's history of airship production   - Career plans to become a blimp pilot disrupted by a bankrupt airship company   - Transition to becoming a pilot and blending aviation with their work Strategic Thinking in Advertising   - Advertising as a means of communication and making brands famous   - Experience in advertising, including strategic thinking and creating television and billboard ads   - The role of identifying the target audience and creating compelling, meaningful content When strategy and passion combine   - Working with companies of all sizes to bring strategy to life and improve communication   - Applying the discipline and culture of aviation to strategic execution in business   - Blending 30 years of marketing experience with a passion for flying and aerobatics Resilience and Personal Growth   - David diagnosis of leukemia and reflection on identity and priorities during treatment   - Discovering the importance of flying and personal growth, setting boundaries, and prioritization   - Sharing their journey to inspire others to reassess their own lives beyond their health experience. Timestamped overview [00:01:15] Fascinated by blimps, wanted to be pilot. [00:06:17] Leukemia diagnosis leads to personal reflection and change. [00:11:40] Cancer patient defies doctors to fly aerobatics. [00:14:48] Aviation's discipline and culture of learning. [00:19:20] Clarity and conciseness are crucial for effective presentations. [00:21:45] Engage audience, tell compelling story, and conclude journey. [00:25:40] Strategy consultant works with companies embracing change. [00:28:50] Positive reflection on transformative past experience. [00:31:56] Unconventional route leads to finally flying a Blimp. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest, Fleur Heazlewood, firmly believes in the power of resilience. She understands that resilience is not something innate but rather a skill that can be developed and strengthened over time. And when it comes to avoiding burnout and managing stress, resilience is your best friend. Fleur believes building up a resilience toolkit allows you to recognise when stress becomes overwhelming and prevent its negative consequences. In this episode Fluer shares her best strategies for taming stress and avoiding burnout. She sheds light on the impact of stress on our bodies and provides valuable insight into different stress responses. If you're looking for practical strategies for managing stress and fostering resilience, join us today as we explore ways to navigate stress, enhance self-care, and promote overall success and resilience. Get ready to take flight and embark on this transformative journey with us on Flying Solo - your podcast for thriving in a hectic world. Let's soar together! Key topics Stress vs. Burnout - Everyday stress vs. burnout - Symptoms of burnout - Differentiating between stress and burnout Maintaining Control and Discipline - Feeling out of control in a distracted world - Distinguishing between controllable and uncontrollable factors - Taking action on rising costs and financial control - Implementing restrictions and alarms for device control Morning Routines for Success - Importance of morning routines - 10 to 15 minutes of morning activities for optimism and focus - Examples of morning activities - Clearing the mind and prioritising the day Healthy vs. Unhealthy Stress - Viewing stress as healthy or unhealthy instead of good or bad - Purposeful stress in certain situations - Short-term stress management and its limits - The need for rest, recharge, and recalibration to avoid burnout Protecting Personal Time - Negative impact of immediate device and social media engagement in the morning - Prioritizing personal time and mental well-being - Protecting morning and nighttime hours from external influences - Promoting sleep with calm and care Wellbeing in the Workplace - Small business owners' responsibility for employee well-being - Legal obligations for a psychologically safe workplace - Minimizing psychosocial hazards in the workplace - Recognizing the impact of work practices and pressures Improving Sleep Quality - The connection between stress, busy minds, and sleep struggles - Creating a disconnection between work and sleep - Setting a closure for eating habits to improve sleep quality - Engaging in activities that help the mind prepare for rest Refreshing and Recharging - Ineffectiveness of relying on holidays for rest and rejuvenation - Exhaustion and delayed holidays due to the pandemic - Making daily refreshment and recharging a priority - Planning and scheduling regular holidays for well-being Timestamped overview [00:02:30] Recognise stress, breathe, and be compassionate. [00:06:41] Different stress responses, no right or wrong. [00:09:26] New mindset: Prioritise health over work. [00:13:59] A short morning routine can boost happiness. [00:18:11] Tips for better sleep: limit work, no late-night eating, relax before bed without screens. [00:21:25] Protect your personal time; limit device use. [00:26:01] Healthy stress is helpful; chronic stress is harmful. [00:28:48] Burnout: exhaustion, disconnection, and loss of efficacy. [00:31:48] Recognise burnout, prioritize, seek support, change work habits. [00:35:46] Different preferences and risks in work, flexibility appreciated, some need office time, important to have conversations about well-being. [00:39:01] Disable notifications, regain productivity, focus on deep work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Andrew May, shares an incredible story of transformation and entrepreneurship. Brace yourself for a tale that involves gambling syndicates, art galleries, and even a Ferrari. But it doesn't stop there! Andrew also dives into his journey as a performance and mindset coach; shares the rituals and lessons that have helped him assist 1000s of business owners, elite athletes and corporate leaders to become more focused and productive and explains where culture and values sit when it comes to creating a positive work and home life. Key Topics 1. The Power of Morning Rituals - Resetting the body clock and optimizing cortisol levels - Morning sunlight and physical movement to increase alertness - Delaying caffeine consumption for sustained energy 2. Aligning Values with Work - Shift in mindset due to COVID-19, prioritizing purpose and meaning - The possibility of finding a job that aligns with values and provides financial success - Importance of self-awareness in determining success and refusing to work with companies lacking self-awareness 3. Creating a Positive Organisational Culture - The role of leaders in setting the tone and culture within an organization - Social contagion theory and how individual behaviors influence the overall culture - Managing physical, psychological, and emotional states to contribute to a positive working environment 4. The Impact of Fitness on Personal and Professional Life - Personal training business and the benefits beyond physical fitness - Positive effects on creativity and cognitive processing capacity - How improved well-being leads to better business performance 5. Pursuing Passion and Taking Calculated Risks - Prioritizing passion and fulfilment over solely focusing on making money - The importance of taking calculated risks to pursue one's true passion - Reflecting on career choices and making decisions based on personal interests 6. Strategies for Productivity and Success in Business - Unconscious behaviour and the importance of habit stacking - Planning the day as a warm-up for optimal performance - Utilizing check-ins and meetings for effective task management 7. Personal Journey and Business Growth - Transition from sports science to personal training business - Growth of the business and expansion into multiple locations - Pursuing higher education in coaching psychology to elevate the business 8. Lessons from Athleticism and Sports Coaching - Experiences as a junior and senior athlete in running and football - Lessons learned from coaching various sports teams - Applying knowledge of physiology and biomechanics to understand people in personal training Time stamped overview [00:02:56] Choosing passion over money leads to success. [00:05:15] Finished degree, worked as strength/sprint coach [00:10:42] Gambling syndicate leads to transformative art gallery. [00:13:24] Personal training led to improved relationships and business. [00:17:39] Reset your body clock with morning routines. [00:21:53] Different energy personalities: gazelle, bear, tiger, dolphin. [00:26:15] Batching tasks massively helps with balance. [00:27:37] Habits matter. Daily planning is crucial. [00:30:43] Culture sets tone, affects entire organization. Toxicity spreads. [00:35:52] Admiral Wendy Malcolm emphasizes living by values. [00:38:21] COVID and business transformation. [00:42:06] Connect with nature, small joys fuel energy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, we delve into the concept of meaningful work and its importance in finding fulfilment in our careers. Our guest, Nina Mapson Bone, is the Managing Director of Beaumont People and an expert in helping individuals discover their unique path to career satisfaction. She shares her insights from decades of experience and stories from her new book, "Meaningful Work." Join us as we discuss how meaningful work can impact not just our personal lives, but also our businesses, recruitment processes, and overall culture. So, let's dive in and discover how we can find meaning in our work with the help of Nina Mapson Bone. Welcome to FlyingSolo EP 392: The Power of Meaningful Work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, we are joined by the incredible Leah Mether, a communication expert and author of the book Soft is the New Hard. Leah's expertise lies in helping individuals navigate the challenges of change, difficult conversations, and communicating more effectively. In this episode, we dive deep into the importance of curiosity and empathy in dealing with resistance to change, especially in the context of the disruptive changes brought about by the pandemic. Leah outlines eight reasons why people resist change and provides practical strategies to address each one. We also discuss the impact of change fatigue and the role of leadership in effectively managing change within teams. We also delve into the significance of soft skills in today's ever-evolving business landscape and why developing effective communication and emotional intelligence is crucial for success. So, grab your headphones and get ready to learn how to navigate change, communicate effectively, and ultimately thrive in this intriguing episode of Flying Solo with Leah Mether! Timestamped overview [00:03:20] The value of soft skills. [00:06:05] COVID impact: Different experiences and why communication is crucial. [00:12:29] Five elements for navigating uncertainty and change:: clarity, connection, candour, compassion, consistency [00:17:52] Resistance to change can be addressed through curiosity and empathy. Understanding the reasons behind resistance, such as lack of understanding or change fatigue, allows leaders to approach it effectively. Prioritizing changes and being mindful of people's capacity can help navigate and implement change successfully. [00:20:55] Approach for communicating change during uncertainty. [00:26:32] Setting expectations to avoid difficult conversations. [00:29:15] Communicate early, often, and with curiosity. [00:32:28] Taking personal responsibility for your communication.   Key topics 1.   Understanding and Addressing Resistance to Change: ·     Importance of curiosity and empathy in dealing with resistance ·     Eight reasons why people resist change and how to address each reason ·     Change fatigue as a common reason for resistance, especially during COVID-19 ·     Need for leaders to pace and prioritize change to avoid overwhelming teams 2.   Effective Communication during Times of Change: ·     Importance of clarifying and checking expectations ·     Approach difficult conversations with curiosity and open-mindedness ·     Communicate early and often, even if it involves conflict or confrontation ·     Use different communication methods (e.g., team meetings, one-on-one conversations, emails) to effectively communicate change 3.   Personal Responsibility and Accountability: ·     Importance of personal responsibility in improving communication and behavior ·     Model the behavior you want to see in others ·     Prioritize self-accountability before addressing others' poor behavior ·     Set clear expectations with your team to avoid tricky conversations and hold people accountable 4.   Navigating Uncertainty and Change: ·     Five key elements for navigating uncertainty and change: creating clarity, connecting with curiosity and empathy, challenging with candor, coaching with compassion, and committing with consistency ·     Soft skills as the crucial "hard skills" for success ·     Recognizing the overlooked importance of developing soft skills ·     Future-proofing businesses and careers through the development of customer service and communication skills 5.   The Impact of COVID-19 on Communication and Relationships ·     COVID-19's varied impact on individuals and teams ·     Generational differences in communication preferences ·     Need to be intentional and conscious about building relationships and improving communication, particularly during COVID ·     Communication's essential role in business success   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Peter Baines is described as one of Australia's most effective solopreneurs. He's a former police officer and forensic investigator who's received the Order of Australian Medal for his humanitarian work as the founder of a well-known charity, Hands Across the Water. Founded by Peter in response to his experiences in Thailand following the Boxing Day tsunami in 2004, Hands Across the Water has since gone on to create homes and opportunities for thousands of children. Today Peter lives a life where purpose and passion align and he encourages everyone to do the same. So, if you've ever wondered how to find your purpose and make a real impact, Peter has some great advice on how you can marry the two. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Women in business, how are you doing? If the answer is less than stellar, the findings from a new report may explain why. Megan Della Camina joins us to unpack the findings from the Voice of Women at Work 2023 report and explains how we can better support women in their career development. Megan Della Camina is a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and progress in the workforce. She is the founder of women's leadership company Women Rising and is a sought-after expert on why we need to invest in authentic leadership that supports women to succeed. In this episode of Flying Solo, Megan unpacks: Key topics discussed in this podcast 1. The Importance of authentic leadership in small business: Megan unpacks why authentic leadership is essential and why you need to be clear on your leadership style.   Understanding and meeting the needs of team members, considering strengths, equity, and equality Challenges faced by small business owners in handling multiple responsibilities without infrastructure and support 2. Assessing wellbeing and addressing burnout The importance of self-perception and self-determination in assessing your wellbeing. The high levels of stress and burnout over the past 18 months Providing the necessary tools and environment for teams to thrive - Prioritising well-being, managing stress, and workload 3. Challenges faced by women in careers Why maternal bias as the number one gender bias impacting women's career paths The assumptions about women's interests and commitment after becoming parents- Structural factors and biases to be addressed to support women in their careers 4. The Manager-Employee Relationship: How the manager-employee relationship goes hand-in-hand with an employee's ability to thrive. The importance of being seen, valued, and recognised in the daily grind of business Celebrating wins, allowing for failures, and rewarding your team 5. Fighting Bias in the Workplace How can you flip the script to challenge your own internal biases? Triggering awareness through self-questioning and analyzing thoughts Recognising and challenging unconscious biases and assumptions. Intersectionality and bias: How to move past intersectional biases. Tapping into values as a leader to address bias across the board Episode timestamps [00:03:02] Being clear on leadership in small teams. [00:07:13] The impact of the lack good manager relationships. [00:12:09] Perception of thriving versus burnout is concerning. [00:14:24] Awareness of employees' well-being as business crucial. S [00:19:15] Challenges women face due to maternal bias. [00:22:56] Intersectionality, gender bias, ageism, sexual orientation. Supporting individual needs and authenticity. [00:24:44] Leadership style, support, growth, well-being, bias. Click here for full episode transcript. Host: Cec Busby Producer: Mikey Marren Guest: Megan Dalla-Camina. Find out more about Megan  You can download the full Voice of Women at Work report here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you desperate for some ‘clean air' and room to focus on management, innovation and entering new markets for your small business? On this episode of Flying Solo, business mentor and author of the new book, Business by Design, Chris Green delves into the importance of prioritising where business owners and leaders spend their time in order to create effective business systems and build capacity for growth. Tune in to learn about delegating tasks to free up leaders to focus on company growth, and his best tips to take your business from overwhelming and chaotic to scalable and rewarding. Topics covered in this podcast episode In this episode, Chris unpacks: 1. Building a transition mindset to play a long-term game Leadership pitfalls - ways to focus on improvement Prioritising business owners' time to focus on growth and building capacity Rewriting your job description What should CEOs and business owners be focusing on? 2. Creating systems to build your business How to enhance team alignment and success Capturing knowledge to empower your team Structure, skills, retention + career paths in small business 3. Leveraging teams' expertise The importance of establishing the right culture and strategy in a business Building the capacity of your people How a clear vision and direction for the business attracts the right skills Episode timestamps [01:08] Chris' journey from law courts to pubs to consultant and author [03:42] Formulating a winning business strategy - a mindset shift for business owners [08:20] Common organisational mistakes for small business owners [10:21] The importance of a modernised operations manual [13:06] Stepping into a leadership role as a business owner [16:03] Why culture and strategy go hand in hand [19:46] Expanding your team as a sole trader [22:52] Goal-setting tips: Inspiration vs strategy [25:19] Business systems to help meet goals [27:05] The problem with ‘media' statistics about small business Click here for full episode transcript. Host: Cec Busby Producer: Mikey Marren Guest: Chris Green – visit Chris' website or buy his book Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a small business owner, you may feel out of your depth when it comes to leading a team, but as we all know – teamwork makes the dream work! On this episode of Flying Solo, team performance expert and author of Teams That Swear By Each Other, Not At Each Other, Adrian Baillargeon, delves into the art and science of high-performing teams and explores how to build a strong and cohesive team that is aligned to the success of your business. Tune in for practical advice on the challenges of leadership for small business owners, tips for troubleshooting tricky team dynamics, and how to improve clarity, alignment and strong relationships amongst your employees. BONUS! And as an added bonus, Flying Solo listeners can score a FREE downloadable copy of Teams That Swear By Each Other, Not At Each Other for a limited time with the coupon code: swearbyflyingsolo. Head to teamsthatswear.com to redeem, but act quickly as the offer expires at midnight on Friday, 21 July! Topics covered in this podcast episode In this episode, Adrian uncovers: 1. The keys to team success The art and science of high performing teams Why relationships, clarity and alignment are crucial in teams Navigating team dynamics - roles, responsibilities and behaviours The difference between finite and infinite goals 2. Aligning your team's purpose How to turn a shining, sinking or spinning team into a shining team Building strong relationships Addressing alignment and team issues The importance of sharing individual KPIs for team cohesion 3. How to be a better leader When to be a teacher, a director or an empowerer Intentional leadership - the cost of complacency Improving conversations and decision-making Episode timestamps [01:10] The hidden power of swearing in teams [04:30] The art and science of high performing teams [07:32] Roles and responsibilities: The importance of clarity [10:44] Building trust and a psychologically safe workplace [12:00] Team dynamics: Sinking, spinning, spiking or shining? [16:16] Problem-solving: How to help a spinning team shine [20:54] What ‘winning' looks like: Finite vs infinite games [26:18] Leadership challenges: When to be a teacher, a director or an empowerer [28:21] Small business owners: Learning to be a leader [30:40] The cost of complacency in leadership Click here for full episode transcript. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If financial freedom feels like a pipe dream, this week's guest is here to set you on the right track. Financial expert and author of Financially Fit Women, Amanda Thompson, joins us on the Flying Solo podcast to reveal the biggest hurdles to reaching financial wellbeing, and how to overcome them. Amanda shares invaluable tips and advice, from retirement planning and understanding superannuation, to investment opportunities and building better cash flow in your business. Tune in to find out how to become confident with your financial decisions and learn the money saving hacks that will allow you to have the money you need to live the life you want. Topics covered in this podcast episode In this episode, Amanda unpacks: 1. Simple steps to rewriting your own money story Knowledge-gathering is the key to getting started Taking small steps to build financial confidence Action plan for debt, investment, superannuation, cash flow and estate planning Aligning financial life with personal values for success 2. Key factors holding you back from financial literacy Understanding your money and personal motivations for business or financial success Taking a reality check on debt and credit Financial crisis hotlines and government-funded financial counselling services Impact of 'buy now pay later' schemes on lending capability 3. Practical budgeting tips Understanding superannuation and investments Gaining access to finance in business Online tools to help with financial planning Empowering women's confidence in financial decision-making Episode timestamps [01:54] The importance of financial empowerment for women [05:32] Understanding your cash flow to strengthen your budget [08:36] Hurdles to women accessing business finance and how to overcome them [10:55] Building financial confidence in investment decisions [13:10] Why retirement planning from a young age matters + online tools to help [15:44] Understanding the debt trap – credit cards, payday loans + buy-now-pay-later schemes [18:20] Aligning financial goals to personal values = the key to success [21:36] Empowering women's financial literacy – where to begin [25:03] How auditing your superannuation fund leads to financial confidence

Whether you're looking to buy a business or you're in the market to sell, today's guest has you covered. Kobi Simmat is a business coach, entrepreneur and the author of How To Build A Business Others Want To Buy. After successfully growing and selling his own businesses, he's learned some top tips every business owner should know. He joins us this week to share just what it takes to differentiate your business from its competitors and set it up for a successful sale. He delves into the tax implications and best timings for sale, plus explains the most common mistakes entrepreneurs make and what makes a business worth buying. Tune in to learn his top tips for buying or selling a business, and the importance of building an exit strategy into your business from the very beginning. Topics covered in this podcast episode In this episode, Kobi explores: 1. The financial implications of buying or selling a business Understanding the value of the business How to maximise profit post-sale Current market trends in business valuations - when is the best time to buy or sell? Why timing is everything and can depend on your age The problem with investor funding and raising capital 2. Navigating the negotiation process Protecting your interests - the importance of skilled advisors for optimal business sale Business valuations and market pricing: Strategies for selling in the current climate Tax considerations in business sales 3. Crafting the perfect exit strategy Importance of having an exit strategy and business continuity plan Ensuring financial stability and succession How to build a business with potential for future saleability Characteristics of ideal businesses for investment – why recurring revenue matters Overcoming the fear of rejection: Empowering small business owners in pricing Episode timestamps [02:21] Kobi's journey to self-made entrepreneur. [05:12] The keys to a successful side hustle - repeatable and profitable [08:01] Forget fear of rejection - price is the simplest way to differentiate quality [12:25] About the book: How To Build A Business Others Want To Buy. [16:09] What makes a business worth buying? Metrics, profitability, recurring revenue [21:40] Common small business mistakes: avoiding tax, unprofitable expenses [26:02] Effective ways to market a business to attract the best potential buyers [28:12] What makes a business attractive to a potential buyer [31:43] Negotiating the right price when buying or selling a business [36:57] Timing and tax implications when selling a business – why your age matters [43:05] The problem with investor funding and raising capital

AI isn't going anywhere, so this week, we're diving headfirst into the world of artificial intelligence and how it can revolutionise your life and business. Donna McGeorge, acclaimed productivity expert and author of the new book, ChatGPT Revolution: How to Simplify Your Life Admin with AI, explains how ChatGPT and other AI tools can save you time, help you stress less and put an end to repetitive tasks. If you want to inject some creative spark back into your business and life, tune in for Donna's practical tips, fun ideas and invaluable insights. Topics covered in this podcast episode In this episode, Donna unpacks: 1. Helpful ways to use AI chatbots like ChatGPT in business and life Delegating repetitive or standardised written communications such as job ads, role summaries, emails, etc. Delegating time-consuming business admin tasks such as data entry, business manual updates, etc. Personal inquiries such as meal plans and family entertainment ideas Boosting creativity - crafting email and customer responses, articles and more The difference between GPT-3 and GPT-4 2. Crafting excellent prompts for better AI output The quality of AI output improves with detailed prompts Output quality can vary due to logic, predictability and probability ChatGPT is not Google - have a conversation to train your chatbot! How feedback improves the AI assistant's response The three Ps of effective prompts: perspective, purpose and personality AI requires human input such as fact-checking and editing for best outcomes 3. Common fears and concerns about AI Job displacement: Why AI is predicted to create more jobs than it takes Combatting misinformation: AI output requires human interaction for factual results Managing security concerns: What you should not share with chatbots Inadequate AI-generated responses: Why you shouldn't give up Episode timestamps [01:07] About the book, ChatGPT Revolution: How to Simplify Your Life Admin with AI [03:53] Improving small business productivity with AI [06:48] The importance of crafting effective prompts for correct output [11:20] AI vs human admin: Better out comes together [13:20] Repetitive business and life admin tasks perfect for AI assistance [17:12] Job displacement – should we be worried about AI? [18:21] Common chatbot mistakes people make [19:50] The three Ps of great prompts: Perspective, Purpose, Personality [23:03] “An extraordinary thought-partner”: Using AI for creativity boosting [24:10] ChatGPT data limitations: GPT-3 vs GPT-4

If you're ready to make the shift from procrastinator to productive force to be reckoned with, listen up. Sam Tornatore is a performance coach, neuro change practitioner and productivity expert who has been helping business owners and professionals overcome procrastination and achieve their biggest goals for 20 years. In this episode, Sam unpacks the causes of procrastination, from common fears to outdated belief systems, and shares his best advice to overcome them. He reveals his top tips for reaching peak productivity and the power of investing in yourself to create the success you wish for. Tune in to find out how to identify your own causes for procrastination and the steps to take to kick procrastination to the kerb. Topics covered in this podcast episode: 1. Identifying procrastination Procrastination robs us of our right to be excellent Awareness to action - the keys to overcoming procrastination Reasons we procrastinate and signs to watch out for Common fears and stepping out of the comfort zones they create Overcoming our inability to take action, making excuses and blaming others. 2. The power of investing in yourself and pursuing passions Putting yourself first is necessary for success – treat yourself like a VIP and others will too Building self-awareness, taking responsibility and changing your narrative The importance aligning goals to your core values - Passion cannot be imposed on us by others How to identify and eliminate limiting belief systems and fears 3. Goal-setting and productivity The power of rewards for consistent action - not just achievements Avoid setting overwhelming goals - how do you eat an elephant? Guarding your time - setting conditions for uninterrupted work increases productivity How to create a distraction-free environment to achieve maximum productivity Episode timestamps [02:45] Procrastination root causes – what's stopping you from taking action? [06:52] Awareness stops procrastination; excuses are warning signs. [09:08] Common fears that cause procrastination. [12:32] Changing the narrative and challenging childhood belief systems. [17:36] Identifying your passion is imperative to caring about goals. [20:57] The power of breaking down goals + rewards for consistent action. [25:26] Creating a fortress around time is key for productivity. [28:43] Struggling to disconnect and focus? You might be a control freak. [32:22] Setting the right conditions for peak productivity. [36:06] Invest in yourself: the final piece of the procrastination puzzle.

Could your customer service culture use a boost? Monique Richardson is the author of They Serve Like We Lead and a service expert who has spent decades helping businesses big and small deliver exemplary customer service. On this episode, Monique reveals the alarming increase in customer abuse and aggression since COVID and shares the importance of having clearly defined policies to address it. She also discusses how organisations can improve their service levels and the practical application of servant leadership to drive success. We touch on the role of service leaders in organisations, the importance of making customer service a part of the culture, and how to recognise and motivate team members to deliver excellent customer service. Tune in to get valuable insights on how to improve your organisation's customer service and leadership. Topics covered in this podcast episode: 1: Handling customer aggression - 400% increase in customer abuse/aggression during and since COVID. - Clearly defined unacceptable customer conduct policy should be in place and communicated to customers and team members. - Safety and wellbeing of team members should be the top priority, and they should never be left wondering what to do - Induction training in an organisation should include an element of customer service. 2: Improving service levels in organisations - Mediocre service needs to be examined to understand why it is happening. - Poor service can be caused by factors such as lack of technology, training, standards or behaviours. - Understanding the reasons for low service levels and identifying solutions to elevate the service experience. - The servant leadership philosophy - serving first and leading second. - Organisations that have adopted servant leadership have shown profitability and business success. - The practical application of servant leadership can have positive impacts on people, organisations, culture and customer experience. 3: Characteristics of successful service leaders - The importance of self-awareness and the ability to identify strengths and weaknesses. - Service leadership involves both mindset and skills such as coaching, recognising good work, and providing feedback. - Leading by example is a crucial aspect of their leadership style and they have clear standards and expectations for their team. - Great service leaders are highly visible and provide coaching, feedback, recognition, and reinforcement to their team. - To provide the best customer experience, leaders should provide training and development opportunities, such as interpersonal skills or managing difficult customer behaviour. 4: Integrating customer service into organisational culture - Customer service should be integrated into daily team meetings and catch-ups, rather than being a one-off topic. - A culture of taking care of customers and employees is key to success. - The commitment to excellence and a focus on customers and employees must be unrelenting every single day to achieve desired outcomes. - The importance of collecting compliments and sharing positive feedback with the team to recognise good work and boost motivation. - Encouraging teams to share their own ideas on how to improve the customer experience, especially those on the front line who interact directly with customers. Episode notes [02:09] High tech, high touch plus empathy – the customer service holy grail. [04:17] Why leadership's impact on customer experience is crucial. [07:12] Practical roadmap for service leaders' and team improvement. [11:14] Customer service audit tips - analysing problems and pain points. [14:29] Complaint handling tips to improve your team's confidence. [16:16] Increasing customer aggression since pandemic – keeping staff safe. [22:05] Improving customer service - capture complaints, share compliments. [23:53] The power of servant leadership: serving first, leading second. [26:34] Building a customer-first culture into day-to-day business.

Are you tired of wasting money on marketing that doesn't work? You're not alone. Fortunately, this week's guest, Amy Miocevich, has the answer. Amy is a sought-after marketing expert, founder of Lumos Agency and the author of The Very Good Marketing Guide. On this episode, Amy shares her advice on building your marketing strategy, turning strangers into loyal superfans, and identifying and overcoming bottlenecks in your business. She reveals the importance of prioritising consistency and relationship-building to maximise the value of customers, and also explains why you should always position the customer as the hero. Tune in to learn how to apply these easy marketing strategies to your own business. Episode notes: [02:24] The biggest marketing mistake small businesses make [04:42] Understanding the linear journey from stranger to superfan [08:06] Building your marketing strategy into day-to-day business [10:42] Choosing the right marketing professional – questions to ask [13:46] Measuring marketing success – it's NOT all about sales [17:52] How much of your budget should you spend on marketing? [20:12] Identifying bottlenecks that are letting your marketing down [23:54] Consistency over exceptional: The key to success [28:00] The power of positioning your customer as the hero [32:52] Strategies for turning strangers into superfans

If you want to crack seven figures and beyond, then having a strategy for growth is imperative, and today's guest knows all about that. Jenny Stilwell is the author of The 7% Club: How to be one of the 7% of businesses that make it beyond $2M in turnover and she has helped hundreds of business owners through the challenges of growth. As a mentor to CEOs and as CEO of her own and others' companies, she knows first-hand what it takes to grow a business. In this episode Jenny reveals the secrets to a sustainable business, her top tips for managing risk, and the role of culture and leadership in business success. Plus the blockers that might be inhibiting your growth! Episode notes: In this episode, Jenny unpacks: 2:30 – The bumpy road to burnout: How letting go can be the catalyst for change 7:00 – Honouring the value of your time to create a business you love 11:20 – How to avoid stalling at the million-dollar mark 15:20 – Quality over quantity – are all of your customers or clients worth it? 20:40 – “Go different, not harder”: How to grow beyond $2 million 25:30 – Empowering your people: Culture is the key to business growth 29:30 – Steps to cracking your first million-dollar profit

Jacqui Clarke is a seasoned business executive and personal wealth expert. With over three decades of experience helping high-net-worth individuals and business owners build and preserve their wealth, Jacqui joins us today, before launching her new book Stop Worrying About Money to share her insights on a range of financial topics. From practical advice on avoiding common money traps to tips on managing cash flow, reducing cost bases, and dealing with scope creep for small business owners, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable tips for listeners. Whether you're an individual looking to make smarter financial decisions or a small business owner looking to grow and thrive, Jacqui's expertise and experience can help guide you on your journey to financial success. Episode notes 02:39 - Learning about money at a young age 04:18 - 3 big money mistakes to avoid now 08:49 - Identifying behaviours: The key to saving and investing 10:07 - How scope creep and expense creep differ 12:56 - Supplementing income: Side hustles and saving goals 15:14 - The importance of building a financial network 18:45 - Blended families' unique relationship with money 23:57 - Managing financial realities for young adults 25:54 - Aligning payment cycles and strategic planning tips 27:28 - Record high business insolvencies in first quarter

On this episode of Flying Solo, we dive into the world of innovation and how it is crucial for businesses to embed innovation into their culture to succeed long term. Today's guest, Zoe Aitken, is an innovation and customer engagement expert with decades of experience. Zoe unpacks the importance of customer engagement, and prioritising customer needs as a platform for achieving business innovation. Join us as we explore the key habits, cultural aspects and processes involved in successful innovation and how you too can use an innovation mindset to see your business take flight. Episode notes:In this episode, Zoe explains: 01:27 - Why customer-centricity is the key to profitability and innovation 05:10 - How a curiosity mindset solves customer problems better 10:17 - The simple definition of innovation: Change that adds value 12:43 - Implementing everyday innovation in your business 15:23 - The power of quick customer feedback loops for building your business 17:37 - Why leadership alignment is crucial for innovation success 19:20 - Lessons learned from COVID-accelerated business innovation 22:51 - Real innovation requires habitual practice and customer conversations 25:31 – Data can only get you so far - why you need to experiment, test and learn

Today's guest is Lauren Stokoe. Lauren is a Director at IP Australia. She's an experienced product manager working across public and private sectors on digital transformations and the implementation of new products. She's also the Venture Manager for Trade Mark ™ Checker. If you've ever considered trademarking your business IP, TM Checker is an AI-assisted tool created by IP Australia that makes it simple for small businesses to check trade mark availability and complete the application process in literally minutes. If you're curious about the ins and outs of Intellectual Property and trade marks and want to know more about how they can protect your business from competitors, then this episode is for you. Episode notes In this episode, Lauren unpacks: 1:10 – What is intellectual property and why it's important to protect it 5:30 – Types of IP and trade mark protection for small businesses 6:55 – How to check a trade mark's availability using IP Australia's TM Checker 10:00 – How to apply for a trade mark with IP Australia 14:05 – Why have only 4% of Australian businesses registered a trade mark? 16:30 – Why would you need to trade mark your business? 18:00 – What you need to know about the patents process 19:15 – Enforcing a trade mark – disputes and examples 22:40 – What can be trade marked? 23:55 – Top tips for small businesses on registering trade marks and intellectual property 26:00 – Intellectual property in overseas markets – the Madrid Protocol 28:55 – The costs of trade marking your business *This podcast is intended to provide general information regarding intellectual property and does not constitute legal or professional advice. It is not intended to take the place of legal or professional advice and should not be relied upon as such.

Kate Toon is an award-winning entrepreneur, digital educator, SEO and copywriting consultant, coach, speaker, podcaster AND the best-selling author of Confessions of a Misfit Entrepreneur. She's crafted a career as a digital mastermind while working from home and raising her son as a single mum. She about to jet off to Europe for a series of speaking engagements – she really is living the good life! But before she does she's joining us to chat about her new book, Six Figures in School Hours – which is chock-full of valuable advice for how you can get over parent guilt, run a business and live a great life! Episode notes: 1:05 – Introduction to the new book, Six Figures in School Hours 3:20 – Starting a business and a family at the same time 7:04 – The 5 basics of running a business as a parent 10:45 – The power of mindset to eradicate parent guilt 14:30 – Why you shouldn't compare yourself to others 18:10 – It takes a village to raise a child – and a business 19:30 – Getting your kids involved in your business 22:50 – Breaking out of inbuilt money mindsets 26:30 – Understanding your numbers + billable hours to reach money goals 30:20 – Understanding the value of your time – what are your priorities right now?

Milton Collins a man of many talents. He's the former CEO of Federation Square, where he spent his days running the Transport Hotel Group. He's headed up an importing and distribution business, and even spent time as the owner of a horse and cattle stud. He's renowned for his business nous and is a sought-after and award-winning business coach and CX expert. Most recently he's turned his hand to writing – and his new book, Delight, Disrupt Deliver, is chock-full of great advice for small business owners looking to create a great customer experience to attract more sales. Episode notes In this episode, Milton unpacks: 1:08 – Why customer experience is so important to business success 3:00 – First steps to a great customer experience 6:15 – Important customer service tips for eCommerce businesses 9:45 – Training your staff to be great at customer service 12:45 – Milton's extensive business experience – what he's learned 15:20 – How to utilise chatbots for customer interactions 17:35 – How to personalise the customer journey and convert first-time visitors 20:30 – Building strong customer/client relationships 23:05 – Practical examples for taking customer service to the next level 26:15 – Dealing with negative reviews and learning from mistakes 28:50 – How emotional intelligence training boosts customer experience 30:05 – Appreciating + rewarding repeat customers/clients 31:55 – Benefits of a customer relationship management system (CRM) 32:50 – Building the ‘wow' factor into your customer interactions 34:00 – Why customer experience is all about trust 37:50 – Creating a customisable, personalised experience for each customer 40:35 – How solopreneurs can build customer loyalty and word of mouth referrals

Money! How to manage it, how to make the most of it, and how to attract more of it, are questions we'd all like answered and this week's guest, Clare Wood, has some practical solutions.  Clare is a sought-after money mentor, author, speaker and CPA-qualified accountant who helps service-based businesses to scale. She also runs The Profit Academy, an online school created to help business owners increase their profits exponentially. When it comes to money management, Clare knows just what it takes to help business owners make more money and create a life of financial freedom and fun. Episode notes In this episode, Clare unpacks: 1:00 - From 2nd-gen numbers nerd to corporate finance 4:03 – Why helping small businesses make more money is her passion 8:44 – The basics of small business finance + key metrics to know 11:50 – The difference between profit and loss, cash flow + budget 13:55 – Cash flow tracking: Excel vs accounting software 17:40 – How to keep reaching your profit goals 19:10 – Why you DON'T have to tell your customers why you're raising prices 22:20 – Understanding your money mindset – and how to change it 28:05 – The power of a growth mindset for entrepreneurs 29:05 – Sales strategies – growing your existing clients/customers 31:40 – Unlocking your money dreams and desires

While the idea of networking might set many of us a-quiver, our next guest is here to tell you it's time you expand your horizons and take the leap. Shivani Gopal has spent the last six years perfecting successful mentoring programs for women in business via The Remarkable Woman. And in 2022 she pivoted her database of 25,000 women to a new digital mentor marketplace, Elladex. It's  a super-app, which combines the latest in data-matching and machine learning technology to create tailored education programs for women at all professional levels. If you've yet to make mentoring and networking part of your life – Shivani is here to explain why it's an essential part of business growth for all business owners. Episode notes In this episode Shivani unpacks: 1:50 – How being dismissed as ‘too young and pretty' was a career catalyst 5:15 – The birth of the Elladex networking and mentoring platform 8:55 – Helping women invest in themselves for success 11:00 – The power of networking and mentoring for small and solo businesses 14:00 – How everyday learning helps you get ahead 16:40 – The importance of social interaction for isolated business owners 18:35 – Ditch the to-do list and make a ‘joy list' instead 20:40 – What if your mentor is not a great fit? 24:35 – Addressing your weaknesses to play to your strengths 26:15 – Where to find mentors and networks in real life, not just online 28:05 – Top tips for making networking a success 32:10 – Why you should surround yourself with a community 35:45 – How to be the driver of your own success 38:20 – The truth about imposter syndrome 40:50 – How to reach out to a potential mentor or network connection