Zero Lives Left Business, Career & Life Podcast

In this jam packed episode I chat with my good friend Tom Hughes.   Tom is Partner in Lean at Lumen Electronics, Cofounder at GembaDocs & 3rd Digital, Author of “Improvement Starts With I.”In the episode we start of by chatting about Tom's business & Career journey.  Tom has recently published his first book Improvement Starts With I: A practical guide to building an extraordinary lean culture.Tom chats about what exactly lean is & share the 5CsCandourCommitment CoachingConsistencyContinuous LearningFinally top shares his top 3 tips for people in business or starting out on their business journey.

In this episode I chat with Louise Brogan who's a LinkedIn Trainer.  Louise is an international speaker and podcaster who talks to audiences about why, how and when they should be using LinkedIn in business.In this episode we chat about top ways to stand out on LinkedIn.  Louise shares top tips for:StudentsGraduates & Career moversLouise shares her four pillars of using LinkedIn - optimising your profile, building a valuable network full of potential clients and customers, creating content that raises your visibility and the golden ticket to winning business on LinkedIn - how to use the messaging feature without spamming or being sleazy.We chat about new features coming to LinkedIn & the benefit of having a LinkedIn company page for your business.  Louise shares some fantastic tips on how to raise your visibility to grow your network across LinkedIn.  Louise is also running a 'Build your LinkedIn Strategy Workshop in Dublin on 27th of April more details can be found here if you'd like to grab a ticket.  Promises to get a great opportunity to learn more.   Don't miss it 

In this episode I chat with Peter Doak from PDG Advertising based in Northern Ireland.  PDG Advertising launched in  2015 as  a creative and results focused digital marketing agency, based in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Our focus for a positive ROI for customers is our guiding light in delivering an Exceptional Digital Marketing Experience.We kick off the episode finding out a little about Peter's background and his reason behind setting up PDG - Peter chats about why simplification in digital is so important especial for the customer considering using digital advertising as a way to get in front of customers.  With so many social media platforms at our disposal it can be difficult to find out which platforms might be best for a business to use to start to compete for attention & get their product or service in front of customers.  Peter also shares a exercise he and his team use called 'Fish bowling' before they begin working with any new client & explains the importance of this exercise  Finally Peter shares his top tips for businesses considering using digital advertising in 2022 as well as 3 key tips for those interested in developing a career in digital marketing.  

In this episode I chat about conflict management with Dorcas Crawford.  After over 20 years as a litigation lawyer and several years conducting a high profile piece of litigation (Northern Ireland's longest running civil trial) Dorcas Crawford, senior partner at Edwards & Co Solicitors, began to re-evaluate the whole area of dispute resolution and concluded that there was a better way. She trained as a mediator with CEDR in London in 2008 and has since conducted numerous commercial mediations and added workplace mediation and facilitation training to her CV. Conflict is something which we all experience at one time or another  - the thing about conflict which Dorcas explains is that it's costly, it's destructive, it drains resources and it impacts peoples lives.  There must be a better way... Dorcas shares her insights as well as some helpful tips in which businesses of all sizes can better manage conflict from the boardroom to right across the organisation.   

In this episode I chat with Henry McCrory who runs a very trendy and focused marketing agency, with one of this closest and lifelong friends Christopher Mc Clenaghan.  Creative3  has a clear goal of growing brands and businesses. They have unconventional ideas, are disrupters and  grow brands, that grows businesses.Henry has been though 2 recessions & now a global pandemic, he is a big  believer everywhere we go we can make a difference, from the server at the coffee shop, to the big shot in the big office, we are no different.In this episode we cover things from building your personal brand on LinkedIn  to feeding your potential market.  The importance of looking after your mental health & wellness as well as having the right people in your corner.  Henry talks about showing your customers what's possible. Sit back, grab a cuppa and listen in to some real honest business banter.  

In this episode, I chat with Gary Day who runs Garden of Music based in Warrenpoint.  Garden of Music believes that everyone should have lifelong access and opportunities to both music-making and music education. Garden of Music advocate for musical inclusion. They believe everyone is musical and should have equity to opportunities and provision.This episode was all about finding out more about Garden of Music, the impact it has & how it's helping making music more accessible for everyone.   Founder Gary chats about his early days in music to becoming one of the leading music practitioners in the UK and Ireland, with 20 years' experience working in accessible and inclusive music-making and education.Gary talks openly about the importance of making music accessible & as inclusive as possible stating that 'music is in us all' We also chat about Gary's own business journey in which he shares 3 key tips when it comes to business Why are you doing it The importance of Networking Collobration for SuccessIf you're enjoying the show, don't forget to hit the Share button and Subscribe to get notified on future episodes..

In this episode, I chat with Leanne McCooey of McCooeys Coffee Shop, Newry. Leanne gives the full showdown on her experience working in the business industry - from pulling her first pint at the age of 10 to now running her very own coffee shop within the City of Newry. We talked about the challenges of opening your own business along with the highs and low's of opening a business in today's society. Leanne opens up, sharing her tips on creating the perfect online social presence and lessons learned on how sometimes failure can lead bigger successes. Leanne is a local celebrity around the Newry area, due to her witty and quirky content, and it's safe to say that this podcast included both these, along with a lot more. Our chat ended with inspirational advice from Leanne - don't be afraid to be a risk-taker, success takes time as not all things take off straight away and hard work and determination is key. If you're enjoying the show, don't forget to hit the Share button and Subscribe to get notified on future episodes..

In this episode I chat with Aaron Watson, Telephone On Hold Marketing, Voiceover, Audio Branding, Media Professional.For several years, Aaron has been delivering his distinctive and clear Northern Irish Voices for radio, TV, and advertising. Aaron specializes in telephone voiceovers for businesses in NI.. onhold marketing, auto attendant and so on.Working with clients all across the UK, Ireland and Europe. Aaron is one of Northern Ireland’s very few full-time voice artists working from his very own voice studio, located just outside Belfast.We kick off by chatting about Aaron's business journey and challenges along the way. Aaron shares an open and honest insight into this word as well as how he has been using Social Media in particular LinkedIn for this business.Aaron is a big ambassador of Northern Ireland PLC or 'Our Wee Country' as he calls it and the importance of helping others and giving back along the way. Our chat ends by Aaron sharing some super useful tips for businesses on how to 'keep plugging' If you are enjoying the show please don't forget to hit the share button and subscribe to get notified on our next episode.

In this episode I chat with Ruth Young of Ruthless Media, which helps businesses to improve their social media presence & content. Ruth starts off by chatting about her career and business journey to date as well as the work she did with Young Enterprise NIWe chat about the impact of Covid-19 on small businesses. Ruth shares some insights and ideas on how businesses can continue to remain visible and how social media can push out content & help attract new sales opportunities.Ruth chats about the benefits of networking and how the BNI in particular has help her own business grow and develop. Finally Ruth shares her top 3 tips for businesses durning Covid-19

In this episode I chat with Nicola McGuinness founder of Lean In Newry. Nicola is also Lean in Regional Leader an #IamRemarkable Facilitator as well as Research and Information Project Manager at Intertrade Ireland. We kick off by chatting about the Lean in Newry Network and how it helps support a large network of women dedicated to achieving their potential through an inclusive, diverse and confidential support network. Nicola chats about how the Lean in Network has help her overcome her own challenges with Imposter Syndrome. As a trained #IamRemarkable Facilitator Nicola helps empower women and underrepresented groups to speak openly about their accomplishments in the workplace and beyond. She shares her helpful tips and advice for businesses especially at this difficult time with Covid-19 as well as her 3 top takeaways;1: Networking & Visibility2: Have a Career Life without regrets3:Change the track in your head

In this episode, we take a much-needed step back. Our World has changed, as a result of the Covid-19 virus. I chat with Joanne Callan on our first episode in which we start to explore Emotional Wellness and what this means. Joanne is a Holistic Therapist & Well Being Coach. She a coach and an International Trainer for Relax Kids in Ireland and an Accredited Coach with The Institute for The Psychology of Eating. With over 15 years experience in the area of health and wellness, Joanne is passionate about holistic health, educating, empowering and supporting individuals and families to be the healthiest they can be. Joanne particular area of interest is in children’s physical and emotional health, women’s fertility and menstrual health along with Eating Psychology and mind, body, nutrition. Joanne chats about the importance of helping people understand how their body works and how to maximise our wellness & how can move to a place of acceptance. Joanne also chats about the 'new sense of norm' and how at the end of the day it is important that we acknowledge that we are only humans.

In this episode, I chat with Fiona Forman author, speaker, trainer, former teacher and facilitator in the areas of well-being and Positive Psychology. We kick off by chatting about Fiona's journey to date from Teacher in the Classroom to setting up her own business and how she got starting in the area of Wellbeing & Positive Psychology.Fiona is the co-author of Weaving Well-Being, an international multi-level Positive Education program for primary school students. She is also the author of Wired for Well-Being, a program for secondary level students which is based on neuroscience and Positive Psychology.Fiona shares her thoughts on Positive Psychology and how it can help people and how it's especially important now due to the global pandemic coronavirus which is sweeping the world.

Not getting paid in Business is hard. You have delivered an excellent product or service and yet can't get paid. But Credit Insurance is one way to prevent this from happening. In this episode, I chat with Cormac Harty from Cormac Harty Insurance who acts as a Consultant in the Insurance Sector. Cormac chats about what credit insurance is, how it helps and why businesses need to consider it. We chat a little on the dreaded B (Brexit) word, Cormac shares his thoughts on the UK leaving the EU and we chat about some of the business success stories in the local area. Cormac also shares his 3 helpful tips for someone considering starting a business in 2020 and he shares some useful tips for Students & Graduates which will help kickstart their career after college or university.

Have you ever thought about expanding your Business or Brand overseas? Ever thought that China or Hong Kong might be a great location? The Chinese and Hong Kong market has great potential for international businesses seeking to expand and develop business relationships with 1.3 billion consumers in the region. In this episode, I chat with Kristina Koehler-Coluccia Head of Business Advisory at Woodburn Accountants & Advisors wh specialized in inbound investment to China and Hong Kong. Woodburn Accountants & Advisors offer companies a one-stop shop approach to their corporate service’s needs. They offer market-entry advisory and ongoing corporate, accounting, tax and human resource services.We chat about some of the important things which need to be considered & researched before jumping right in & registering a business. Kristina shares her experience and knowledge on the importance of businesses getting the right advice from the start and ways to protect their business idea or IP.Kristina explains the importance of making a trip across to experience China and Hong Kong, the importance of setting up business meetings in advance, planning and preparation is vital to ensure you get the most out of the trip. Finally, Kristina shares her top 3 tips for businesses considering expanding into China or Hong and sums up by stating that spending time researching and getting the correct advice will help save time and money in the long run. She runs regular workshops and webinars to help educate businesses on a number of key topics and suggests those interested to reach out and get in touch.

In this episode, I chat with Emma Marmion Director of Prestige HR based in Newry. Emma and her team at Prestige HR in Newry provide a full range of services for the SME sector right across NI/ROI and UK. I start off by asking Emma about her Career journey to date how she ended up getting into HR and also how Prestige HR was born. A core focus on this episode of the Podcast was Leadership an area which Emma has expertise in when it comes to helping SMEs. Emma discusses what she feels are the most important traits for leaders in today's ever-changing world. A core focus of our discussion on the podcast was wellbeing and how the important the wellbeing of both the leader and the staff are key to success within all organisations. Emma is also VP of Newry Chamber an organisation which is the voice of businesses across the region we discuss BREXIT and the impact locally which we may have and the importance for all businesses to get into planning mode - Emma shares ways which the local chamber in Newry can help.Emma wraps up by sharing her top 3 tops for Businesses and entrepreneurs to help grow and move a business to the next level.

In this episode I chat with Adam and George 2 independent video content creators based in Derry & owners of Foxglove Productions. Both Adam and George met at college and saw a gap in the North West Region to help businesses and brands create cost effective video content with high quality results. Adam also known on YouTube as IzonHow is a successful You Tube content creator in his own right and has been Vlogging for some time - I first came across Adam at an event which we both had been speaking at and felt inviting the guys onto the podcast would be a great way to do more of a deep dive into the world of creating effective video content. We kick off the episode finding out why Adam and George decided to launch their own video content agency and what the motivation was behind it. Adam explains the key to all video content is about storytelling and that each video not matter how short or long needs to have a start, middle & end. Adam explains how he uses YouTube as a Vlogger & the steps which he focuses on when create regular videos for this YouTube community and how businesses can tap into the power of video content.George explains what businesses need to think about when it comes to creating video content as he puts it 'Clients should ask themselves what would they say about there business if they where explaining it to someone, explain you're business in a nutshell'If you have enjoyed this episode please don't forget to hit the share button and if you want to find out more information about getting in touch with Adam & George for your next video project check out Foxglove Promotions

In this episode I chat with Colly Graham CEO Salesxcellence about the importance of sales within Businesses both small and large. Colly Graham in 1996 who has over forty years’ experience in telephone, field sales and sales management. Colly is recognized as an international sales trainer who achieves excellent results.Colly chats about the key traits which make a good sales person and how being resilient is an important characteristic of a successful sales person. When it comes to sales Colly explains it's all about being a 'problem solver' A good sales person has to be a good listener. Colly explains how a business can recognise a well-qualified sales opportunity and that account management is key within business. He shares this top 3 sales tips and techniques to help small businesses generate better sales. We discuss the impact which Social Media, the Internet and in particular LinkedIn has had on the sales process and Colly share's his thoughts on how businesses can use LinkedIn more effectively within the sales process. Finally Colly talks about this upcoming 3 Day Accelerate your Sales in 2019 training and development and how it will help sales professionals. More details on the program here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/accelerate-your-sales-in-2019-3-day-sales-masterclass-with-colly-graham-tickets-55984477078?aff=dw

In this episode I chat with Former United States Most Wanted Brett 'GOllumfun' Johnson referred to by the United States Secret Service as "The Original Internet Godfather. Mr Johnson was a central figure in the Cybercrime world for almost 20 years. He build and was the leader of 'ShadowCrew', the precursor to today's darknet markets. He was instrumental in development many ares of online fraud while helping design, implement and refined modern identity theft, account take over fraud, card not present, IRS Tax fraud and countless other social engineering attacks and breaches and hacking operations. Brett shares openly and honestly his backstory, being on the United States Most Wanted to turning it all around and now working with Business, Organisations and Individuals across the world helping them protect themselves against Cybercrime. We chat about the types of Cybercrime which people need to be aware of as well as simple things which people can do to help protect themselves. Brett chats about what is know as the;Surface WebDeep WebDark WebBrett explains the different motivations of cybercrime as well as the rise of 'Fake' reviews online & how they influence who you buy from and what you buy online.

This episode of the podcast is taken from my recent Facebook Live in which I chat with Terry Robb Head of Personal Banking at Ulster Bank. Financial fraud is becoming more prevalent so protecting your money whilst shopping particularly in the run up to Christmas is really important.I’ve teamed up with Ulster Bank over the next few weeks to contribute to the ‘TAKE FIVE TO STOP FRAUD’ national campaign from Financial Fraud Action UK and the UK Government.We kicked off on Black Friday (which one you say J) and are creating and posting tips to help keep you safe – videos, blogs, Instagram stories and Facebook and Twitter posts out with practical advice to prevent scams in the run up to Christmas. Terry chats about the common types of fraud and scams which can impact people as well as sharing simple and effective ways which people can protect themselves. We chat about the 'Take 5 to Stop Fraud' Stop and Think when you receive a request to move money. A genuine bank or organisation will never contact you out of the blue to ask for your PIN, full password or to move money to another account.Only give out your personal or financial details to use a service that you have given your consent to, that you trust and that you are expecting to be contacted by.When clicking on links or files, don’t be tricked into giving someone access to your personal or financial details.Never automatically click on a link in an unexpected email or text. This podcast is sponsored by Ulster Bank Northern Ireland, I believe it’s sound advice which is why I’m working with the bank on this campaign. As always, all views and opinions are my own.

In this episode I chat with Ted Rubin a leading Social Marketing Strategist, Speaker, CMO of Brand Innovators, & Co-Founder of Prevailing Path. In March 2009 he started using and evangelizing the term ROR, Return on Relationship, hashtag #RonR.Ted has a deep online background beginning in 1997 working with best selling author, entrepreneur and agent of change Seth Godin at Yoyodyne, which was acquired in Q4 1998 by Yahoo! Ted chats about his time at Yoyodyne & what it was like working with Seth Godin. Ted talks about the importance of relationships and shares real life examples of how they can be developed, nurtured and the value which they can bring. We chat about the importance of 'being nice to people' a value concept which Ted feels is so important and often forgotten. Ted also shares this thoughts on what brands especially those in retail need to think about and shares simple and effective tips for small businesses when it comes to engaging with customers. Finally he finishes off with this top 3 tips for ALL Businesses:1:Become responsive 2: Build your own community3: Empower Employees

In this episode I chat with George Kingsnorth Owner/Director/Producer at Gullion Media Limited. With 32 years professional experience from producing, writing, directing, editing and creating animations, George helps tailor a story in video that meets the needs of your audience and budget. George chats about this career journey to date and how he got this first break in film making. We discuss the importance of creating effective effective video content and why the best videos are planned & visualised into a storyboard. We talk about creating video content on a Smartphone and some of the limitations which can impact the end result as well as the difficultly of capturing good quality audio. George also shares his tips for students thinking on University or getting that degree, the benefits of spreading your education across your career & choosing a course which is specific to your educational needs. Finally we chat about the important of being able to create and tell stories within your video content.

In this episode, I chat with David Henderson who runs an award-winning multimedia design company based in Northern Ireland. David chats about how at high school he always had a keen interest in 'Art & Design' It was via this interest which David ended up graduating from the University of Ulster with a 'first class' honors in Interactive MultiMedia Design which kickstarted his career We chat about the importance of 'networking' in business but also it's importance in career development. David shares tips for students & those who have graduated who are perhaps finding it difficult to get their career going. He talks about getting out and networking as one of the key aspects of finding and opening opportunities. David talks about how his business has been using Instagram to tell 'Stories' about the type of work which they are involved in and also aspects from within the business. David shares some great on businesses of all sizes can get on board with Instagram and start to build meaningful relationships with their customers through image and video-based content by adding 'Value'

In this episode, I chat with successful serial entrepreneur Dave Whelan Founder & CEO of ByPhone.co.uk. Dave has been involved in VoIP systems since 2006 I kick off the episode by asking Dave to chat a little bit about his business and entrepreneurial journey to date. We chat about something which has become important for all businesses Internet Security but more specifically what Internet Security has to do with Telecoms. Dave talks about how Cyber Criminals are using phone systems to make money by hacking systems. Dave talks about one way in which businesses can protect themselves is by keeping systems up to date & limiting remote access. We chat about the benefits of using VOIP Technology for Business and the cost savings for businesses and the entrepreneur. Dave gives us an insight into how his company is constantly pushing the boundaries of technology and experimenting with VR Finally, Dave shares his top 3 bits of advice for Businesses & the Entrepreneurs 1: Stay close to your Customers 2: Just do it 3: It takes 2 or 3 times longer and it's often harder than you think it's going to be Bonus Tip - Remember to enjoy the Journey

In this episode, I chat with Adrian Markey who is a Chartered #Accountant based in Newry. I kick off the episode asking Adrian about this journey from Music Promoter to Chartered Accountant and why it feels it's so important to get to know the individual behind the business as opposed to just crunching the numbers. We chat about health and wellbeing in business and the importance of getting out and meeting other like-minded people & how starting and running a business can often be very lonely and isolated experience. When it comes to the area of tax and accountancy this is something many people can struggle with and getting the right advice from the outset is key. Adrian gives us an introduction to the world of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology what it is and how it works. We also talk about some of the things people need to think about from a taxation point. Finally, Adrian finishes off with this top 3 tips for Businesses & entrepreneurs; Be in Business for the right reason Being an entrepreneur is hard & you have to be good at what you do Do you have the commitment Thanks for Listening! To share your thoughts: Drop me a Tweet to @ZeroLivesLeftPodcast Ask a question over on ZeroLivesLeftpodcast.com Share this show on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest.

In this episode, I chat with Emma Garrett CEO Mallusk Enterprise Park. I kick off by asking Emma to share a little insight on her career journey to date and some of the challenges along the way. Emma discussing how she worked her way up the career ladder and how it took her a little while to figure out what she wanted to do career-wise. We chat about her role at Mallusk Enterprise Park and also the types of the role the local enterprise center plays in helping those interesting in starting a business as well as those seeking to expand and grow their business further. Like me, Emma is an avid social media users so we get the chance to talk about the role which it plays with not just within small businesses but businesses in general. Emma talks about the types of content which businesses can produce to help engage with their customers, being personable and getting your personality across on social media. 'People buy from people' Emma talks about the 80/20 rule which she learned from her Dad '20% of your customers will generate 80% of your income for your business & how looking after your customers and building relationships are so important in business. Finally, Emma shares her 3 Tips for Students graduating in 2018 which that would help them get their foot on the career ladder; - Work for free to gain experience - What is your USP - How can you relate your hobbies or interests to the job you are applying for

In this episode, I chat with Claire Stewart Chartered Accountant Partner at Cartmill Stewart & Co. Chartered Accountants based in Northern Ireland. Claire is a small business advisor, mentor, and author. We chat about Cartmill Stewart & Co. how the business was formed and the types of professional services which it offers to clients both small and large. Claire talks about her path to becoming a Chartered Accountant and how she wanted to change the 'stereotypical' example of what an account was. We discuss the importance of goals in life and Claire explains that running a business is just a vehicle to reach personal goals. Claire shares her insights and thoughts on the importance of aligning goals with what you want to happen and how even though you might have a plan don't be afraid to take a different route. Claire shares her 3 best tips (which was hard) from her book 25 ways to help get your business off to a good start; - Get over your fear - Take a risk - Don't Network just to get a sale Finally, Claire gives some useful insight into how to get into a career as a chartered account, possible routes and her goals for the rest of 2018

In this episode, I chat with Mickey Quigg who currently works in New York for NY GAA as Development Officer. Mickey was previously a student of the University of Ulster and was also Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs & Vice President of Campaigns and Communications at Ulster University Students Union. We chat about his time at the University of Ulster and the roles which he has been involved in, as well as the skills which he developed and feels, have been important. Mickey talks about his current role as a development officer at New York GAA and what it's been like working in the United States. We discuss important skills which students need to develop and refine and the importance of communication skills in the workplace. Mickey share's his top 3 tips for Students graduating in 2018 and how these can help land a job or opportunity after University. Finally, we chat about LinkedIn and how useful Mickey has found it for building his own career profile online and professional network and why he feels Students should be embracing the power of Linkedin

In this episode, I chat with Debbie Rymer Principal of East Coast of Marketing Academy who have launched a CIM (The Chartered Institute of Marketing ) study center in Newry City offering Businesses & Individuals the opportunity to obtain a qualification in Marketing or Digital Marketing. We chat about The Chartered Institute of Marketing and explore opportunities which obtaining a professional qualification can present. Debbie shares her insights on how both businesses and individuals can directly benefit from the qualifications. Debbie talks about the importance of planning when it comes to making your digital marketing and social media efforts successful and how using a Digital Marketing Framework such as Dave Chaffey 'RACE' Framework help digital marketers plan and manage their activities in a more structured way. Debbie also shares examples of which previous delegates who have gained their CIM qualifications, as a result, have been able to secure employment opportunities and promotions. Check out http://www.eastcoastmarketingacademy.org/ for more details on upcoming courses as well as information on the full range of CIM Qualifications available.

In this episode, I chat with Emma Boylan. Emma helps small business owners, who struggle with marketing, fill their business with ideal clients as well as finding a faster path to way more money by Standing out and NOT sounding the same as every other business. Emma left her 9 to 5 job 4 years ago to fulfill her dream of starting her own business; when she saw that most marketing was all the same and that businesses were really struggling to attract the right clients and have a message that made them different. Emma talks about thinking about how businesses can influence people but understanding how your customer or clients think or feel. Emma shares her tips on how to cut through the noise of social media and reach your ideal client. Emma explains why people do business with people they know, like and trust. All business need to build this with their audience online by creating a tribe of people who are waiting for your next Facebook Post & her 3 tips on how businesses can get crystal clear on their business message today.

Niamh McAuley is video marketing manager with over 4 years of experience in camera operation and video content throughout the island of Ireland. She has been growing Purple Dot Videos for the last 3 years producing over 200 promotional videos for businesses throughout Northern Ireland.  In this episode Niamh shares her insight and top tips on how businesses and individuals can benefit from creating video using just their smartphone.   Niamh talks about other equipment which businesses can use to help improve their video, the mojo kit & ways to overcome the fear of getting in front of the camera.

Nikki Bradley is a young woman who has been on a truly unique and remarkable journey.  Diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer at the age of just 16  - Nikki knows how to push limits and boundaries - from glacier abseiling to attempting a Guinness World Record. In this episode, Nikki talks openly about dealing with cancer to sharing her 5 tips for helping overcome Adversity.  She shares strategies for living with a disability. Nikki talks about the importance of Appreciating the Power of Laughter, Accepting Help and remembering why it's not all about you. She shares some of her plans for the future and how she now speakings in Schools to Young People & Businesses by sharing her story as well as chatting about the campaign which she launched Fighting Fit for Ewings

When it comes comes to Twitter for Business the name Tweeting Goddess AKA Samantha Kelly is synonymous with Twitter in general.  She is someone who I have gotten to know well over the past few years.  She has helped me connect with people in Ireland and around the world and given me the opportunity to speak at her Irish Biz Party events throughout Ireland and also to speak at the first Irish Social Media Summit which attracted speakers such as Ted Rubin & Brian Fanzo to name a few.   She is a Twitter superstar and in this episode she shares her insights and tips to how Businesses can use Twitter more to build relationships with Customers & the reason your Business needs to be using Twitter.   Samantha shares why people don't go on Social Media to be sold to.  The importance of taking relationships which you build online offline & her 3 key tips for using Twitter for Business.   Samantha also shares key hashtags which businesses need to look out for which can help increase the reach Tweets and the importance of finding your thing - "be you and be authentic" in her own words.  

Many of us hope for Financial freedom but very few people achieve it. When many of us hear the term Financial Planning a blank expression comes to mind.  For many people, they think the whole Financial Planning process is something of a complex process but it dosen't have to be.   There are many simple steps which you can take along the way which will help you move closer to Financial freedom John Sloan of Navigator Financial Planning helps me explore this a little further.  We chat about the different types of debt the Good Vs the Bad debt which many of us have - potentially causing a lot of stress.  John talks about what he calls the Superman syndrome what this means and why it's important for young professionals to think about.   John talks about the importance of writing down some simple Financial goals of what you would like to achieve and how a Financial advisor can help you reach your goals, we chat a little about putting a little aside each month and investing for the future.   This episode is packed full of great tips for Financial Planning if you need any further information make sure to stop by http://www.navigatorfp.com/

Imagine developing a University or College project and turning it into a Business that generates sales of 1 Million that's what happened when Kyle Gawley co-founded Get Invited  - the Online Ticketing Platform In this Podcast Kyle talks openly and honestly about this business journey to date.  We chat about why it's actually ok to fail.  Why Bootstrapping is important and how you can but 250K of investment in a very short time. We discuss Kyle's latest journey in life to become a Digital Nomad and why Health and Wellbeing is very important in Business & Life.  This episode is packed full of great tips and advice and building a start up and life.  

From Hobby to Business to Pitching in Dragons' Den Niamh Hogan from Holos Skincare has had an interesting business journey so far.  In this episode of the Podcast I chat with Niamh about the early days of  setting up her business, how she got started and ended up pitching to Investors on the Irish Dragons' Den Niamh share great insights and advice to getting a business up and running and the importance of cash flow - without cashflow it can make it difficult to execute your business plan.   Niamh shares her 3 tips for Startups as well as pitching tips should you get the opportunity to pitch your business idea to an investor or in the Dragons' Den. Building relationships is key and these days social media can help you build relationships on a global level  - it's all about putting yourself in the right position.   Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to share the link with your friends   

Digital Technology has helped evolve and change the experience for travellers in 2016 - It presents many of opportunities for both businesses and customers to take advantage of to help improve and enhance the experience.  In episode 24 I chat with Kieran Swail Innovation and Technology Specialist at i3 SRC Newry  Kieran has mentored over 100 businesses through a range of different funding streams to help businesses in their path to become more innovative and do business better.   We discuss how businesses can think about using new digital technologies more effectively to improve the visitor experience especially from a 'pre destination' How technology can become an enabler pre - durning and post visit with technology being all around us.   We wrap up with some advice for Students studying Travel, Tourism or Hospitality how to get a start in the industry  - the importance of being creative and innovative and never giving up till you get what you want.  

This is an on location Podcast.  I am in Dubai and I'm chatting with my good friend Barry Cummings.  Barry runs a successful Digital Marketing Agency in Dubai and works with a number of different clients across different sectors.  In this Podcast I chat with Barry about this move to the UAE over 10 years ago, how he found the country and what it's like to set up a business in Dubai. We talk about the difference of running a business in the UK and how it works in Dubai and why you need to have patience and tenacity to be successful in Business.   We also talk about a career in the Digital Marketing industry and what need to get thought abut if you are considering working in the Middle East.  Barry shares his insights, thoughts and offers great advice to those looking to work as a digital marketing professional in the United Arab Emirates.  

With 91% of Retail using 2 or more Social Media Channels  - Retail Businesses both small and large really need to be fully taking advantage of Social Media and the opportunities which it provides.   In this episode I chat to Emma Gribben which helps retail businesses get more out of their social media efforts.  Emma shares her insights on the importance of content within social media, what are the trends for retailers in 2016 and how social media can help you gain traction & the importance of relevant, meaningful messages Emma chats about the importance of taking your message and putting it in video format and how this will help you get more exposure.  She stresses the importance of knowing your market and carrying out regular research.  Retail businesses need to make it simple for customers to interact with them  - Emma share's some tips on how this is possible.   We wrap up the show with some tips for those looking to break into a Career in digital marketing and why experience is very important within this ever changing landscape.  

The topic of Career Branding has never been more important than now with the explosive growth of Social Media and Platforms like LinkedIn which enable people to develop their own professional network and apply for career opportunities. Episode 21 of the Podcast is a big one I get the opportunity to chat with global career branding expert Niels Reib from Denmark.  Niels shares many of this top tips and advice which he covers on his awesome courses which he runs via his online platform He chats about his Career Branding Roadmap which he has developed to help those starting out on the journey or those looking to make a career change and why your website or 'Home Base" as Niels calls is a tool which you need to have up and running. Niels finishes off with his Top 5 Tips for a effective LinkedIn profile which include: Picture  - Make sure you smile and it's a professional image  Your Headline Matters - this is a teaser of what you are all about Keyword - 5-7 of your strongest skills Summary - not to formal pick out 2-3 of your proudest moments Make sure you personalise your invites  Make sure to check out this website http://nielsreib.com/ and follow him on Twitter @NielsReib  

They say an pictures says a 1000 words, in Social Media Marketing getting the correct image associated with your campaign can be a make or break.  Sourcing good stock images can be costly and also challenging in terms of the terms of use.   In this episode I chat to Top Northern Ireland based Professional Photographer Jude Malone from Cool For School.  Jude talks about her own experience in business as well as what goes into capturing the perfect image for your social media campaign and what's possible with your Smartphone device and why you don't need to spend thousands on equipment you don't know how to use.  

The World of the Internet and Social Media has become the way in which we communicate and share information.  When it comes to Social Media many of us can think of all the positive benefits which it has one being how easy it is for us to stay in touch with each other at a touch of a button.   But there is a dark side to the Internet & Social Media with many people experiencing Online Bullying as a direct result of the Internet and Social Media.  In this episode I get to chat to Northern Ireland based Anita Dennison who herself was bullied online while at School.  She has recently given a TEDx on her experiences and shares her advice on how to overcome online bulling and why getting help so important.  She has tuned this very negative experience into a positive one and now helps others in the same situation.  

Digital PR for your Business & what you need to know right now.  This info can help change the game for your Business.  You will need a Pen & Paper to listen to this episode.   I chat with the talented Leanne Ross Digital Communicator who has a real knack for coming up with creative and innovative ways to help businesses use Digital Communication methods to Reach & Win customers.  Leanne shares her story on how she got started in Digital Marketing, Why Personal Development is important, her 6 Low Cost Marketing Ideas for 2016 as well as a bunch of other great insights.   This episode is packed to the rafters full of tips which you can implement to your business right way.  

When it comes to business being able to communicate your key businesses message is vital.  In this episode I chat with former UTV & BBC presenter Sarah Travers & Sales and Business Specialist Camilla Long of Bespoke Communications who each share top advice how how to become a better communicator.  How to handle a media interview and how a to nail an elevator pitch in 3 key steps.   In this episode businesses get real tips on how to actually become a better communicator a skill which will help bring your business & career to the next level.  Grab a Pen & Paper and get ready for some amazing useful information you can action right away.  

In another packed episode I chat with Adrian Curran of WhatsThePointMedia about using Facebook for Business.  Many Businesses now use Facebook as a way to engage with their Customers but are customers really coming onto Facebook to be sold to? Adrian shares his insights and advice to how businesses can get more out of their Facebook efforts.  Adrian talks about what content works, why businesses need to think about a strategy and the importance of building a community around your Facebook Business Page.   In this episode businesses get real tips on how to actually use Facebook to make it work for a business, you will learn how to become your own media channel.  

When we are kids many of us have dreams of maybe someday becoming our own Boss and starting our own Business.  For Martin Murtagh of Newry City Tours he decided to do just that.  Winner of the 2015 Newry City Business Awards for Best Tourism Business, Martin's business has been growing and he currently has plans to launch City Tours in other parts of Ireland focusing on the scary or dark tourism industry.   In this episode Martin shares his 3 tips for those considering starting a Business in 2015 - he talks about keeping things simple, developing partnerships & surrounding yourself with the right people are key for success.   Visit http://newrycitytours.com/ to find out more 

Having the Motivation to follow your dreams is something at times we all lack.  "Its not about results, it about the person you become" My friend Cameron Parker one of the UKs Top Elite Motivators takes time to chat with me about building confidence and developing as a person and how we all can be successful in our own right. Cameron shares his journey and talks honestly about the highs and lows & how he says he has been lucky enough to have dyselxia and ADHD and using this to his advantage. He leaves us with 3 of this top tips:  Don't make excuses, drop the BS Start by starting  Learn to fail  

Pr remains as important today as it's ever been.  But what is PR?  What do businesses need to think about when considering engaging in PR?  How can someone graduating in 2015 get a start in the PR Buisness. We hear from Cathy Martin Fashion Guru & PR Boss of CMPR in Belfast who specialise in beautiful communications that evoke feeling and leave a lasting impression.  Cathy shares her insight on getting started in the PR Business, Why Pr is important for Businesses, PR Tips for Businesses & how to develop a Career in the PR Business.    

When at School many of us struggle with trying to find a path to choose for our Career. Some decide to follow a path into third level education, others decide a more vocational training route is the way for them, either way we all have choices.  In this episode I chat with entrepreneur Connaire Mc Greevy on this journey from HighSchool, University, starting his first business and becoming a Politican all under the age of 30. Here how his journey developed and find out tips and advice on how he build his business from a grass roots approach to one of the most successful energy companies in Northern Ireland and how he's now setting out on a new journey to brew craft Beer. Connaire shares honest and frank advice on developing and growing your business & being your own boss.   In his words "Anyone can make it happen"

Your Website is your shop window to a globa customer base.  In this episode I speak with Claire Savage of CS Editorial based in Portrush.  Claire shares her insights, tips and advice on how a business can get more out of their Website & increase the chance of converting a customer by having compelling,engaging copy on their business website.   We also discuss the added benefit of why it's important to work with a copy writting professioanal who can help improve visability of your website in the major search engines by having SEO friendly copy.   Claire also share's her advice for those graduating in 2015 on how focusing on your personal profile online can also help you get noticed by potential employers and why copy on your LinkedIn profile is so important.  To find out more information on claire & her services please visit www.cseditorial.co.uk 

In Episode 10 I decide to leave the comfort of the Zero Lives Podcast Studio and take episode10 on the road to chat with 4 different people all doing great things in their Career & Business.  First up we hear from Nicole Curran from Newry Junior Chamber and the benefits for joining and getting involved in your local Junior Chamber. Next up is Aidan Malone from Accountancy firm Malone Lynchehaun on a fantastic new cloud based accountancy solution called Xero and how it can help small businesses become more compliant with their accountancy practises.   We then hear from Lisa Mc Manus of The Wellness Cafe in Newry who shares her advice and insight on why a healthy diet is important.  Lisa also shares her top tips for those people thinking about starting a business in 2015 and why having experience is key.   Last up I get to chat with Shane Mulholland from Global capital markets software and consultancy firm First Derivatives who's HQ is based in Newry.  Shane shares his insight on what it's like to work for a global company First Derivatives and the opportunities which are available for graduates.  

In episode 9 I chat to NI Social Butterfly Lyndsay Malone Northern Ireland Lights who chats about her role as Web Show Presenter and Events Blogger.  Lyndsay's jobs to suss out all sorts of cultural events, venues and local talent.  She shares with me what the talent scene is like in Northern Ireland and how NI Lights helps artists & muscians get promoted via their regular web show which she presents.   We chat about how she got started in the NI Entertainment scence and what her job involves.  Lyndsay shares her insight and advice for thoses seeking to get into a career in the media industry.   To find out more information about Lyndsay you can check her out on Twitter @LyndsayMalone or via her Web TV Show by Clicking Here