Grow A Small Business Podcast
Our weekly 30 minute podcast helps you, a small business owner with 5 to 30 team members, take your company to the next level. The Grow A Small Business community, weekly cast, blog and leadership email supports leaders get through the pain of growth. With insights, lessons learned, books and tools as well as habits these experienced small business owners suggest you develop, our interviews unearth tremendous value for anyone wanting to grow their business with less stress.
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How Karl Schwantes, Founder of Reputable, Built a Six-Figure Reputation Marketing Business and Scaled His Family Jewelry Brand, Xenox Diamonds, Over 30 Years to Become a Leading Name in Engagement and Wedding Rings. (Episode 662 - Karl Schwantes)
04/27/2025
How Karl Schwantes, Founder of Reputable, Built a Six-Figure Reputation Marketing Business and Scaled His Family Jewelry Brand, Xenox Diamonds, Over 30 Years to Become a Leading Name in Engagement and Wedding Rings. (Episode 662 - Karl Schwantes)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , Founder of and Managing Director of Xenox Diamonds. Karl shares how he built a six-figure reputation marketing business through the power of Google reviews. He also dives into growing Xenox Diamonds over three decades into a leading jewelry brand. Karl reveals key strategies on creating an outstanding client experience and scaling sustainably. Tune in to learn how you can build a million-dollar lead machine without spending a dollar on ads! Other Resources: Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Karl Schwantes, the hardest thing when growing a small business is to work between being on the business and in the business. He explains that many small business owners are excellent practitioners who may have started their own business after feeling they could do better than a previous employer. The challenge lies in transitioning from working in the day-to-day operations to working on the strategic development and growth of the business. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Karl Schwantes favorite business book is "The Road Less Stupid" by Keith Cunningham. He values its focus on asking smart questions to solve problems and avoid costly mistakes. Karl believes it's a powerful tool for strategic thinking and smarter decision-making in business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Karl Schwantes recommends the podcast Near Memo for staying updated on local search trends and Google's ever-changing algorithm, as it provides insights from industry experts. He emphasizes learning from professionals deeply engaged in specific fields for effective business growth. This aligns with his focus on leveraging Google reviews as a powerful tool to enhance online reputation and SEO impact. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Karl Schwantes highly recommends leveraging Google Reviews as a powerful tool for small business growth. He highlights that investing in online reputation through Google Reviews yields exceptional returns, with every dollar spent generating $326 in value. Additionally, Google Reviews significantly enhance local SEO, accounting for nearly 50% of its effectiveness, making it an essential strategy for visibility and growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Karl Schwantes advises focusing on building your online reputation from day one, particularly through tools like Google Reviews. He reflects that if he had started earlier, he could have achieved thousands of reviews, making his business the clear choice in the industry. He emphasizes starting small, as consistent actions over time lead to significant long-term advantages in both attracting customers and key talent. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Consistency in the client experience is the benchmark of excellence – Karl Schwantes Reputation marketing isn't built overnight; it's crafted through relentless consistency – Karl Schwantes Online reviews are not just testimonials; they’re your digital currency – Karl Schwantes
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QFF: Nathan McGrath, Founder of Outside The Square Accounting, Shares How He Left 20 Years in Corporate to Launch His Own Firm, Empowering SMEs with Clarity, Automating Finances and a No-Judgment Approach to Business Advice. (Episode 661 - Nathan McGrath)
04/24/2025
QFF: Nathan McGrath, Founder of Outside The Square Accounting, Shares How He Left 20 Years in Corporate to Launch His Own Firm, Empowering SMEs with Clarity, Automating Finances and a No-Judgment Approach to Business Advice. (Episode 661 - Nathan McGrath)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Amanda Jones interviews , founder of , Nathan shares his experience as a small business owner and highlights the importance of anticipating future needs and automating finances for success. He advises businesses to seek the right advice early and focus on forward planning rather than dwelling on past issues. McGrath also touches upon key financial documents like the balance sheet and forecast, and the value of open communication with an accountant without fear of judgement. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Don’t Delay, Get Advice Early: Successful businesses seek the right advice before making decisions—not after. Engage your accountant early to help you anticipate challenges and opportunities. Automate Your Finances: Save time and reduce errors by automating financial reporting and processes. Let important insights land in your inbox without lifting a finger. Know Your Numbers Weekly: Spend at least 15 minutes a week reviewing your financials—especially actuals vs. forecasts. This keeps you aligned and helps you catch issues before they escalate. Financial Documents That Matter: Focus on the balance sheet (your GPS), a forecast (your roadmap), and track ATO and super obligations. These provide clarity and prevent future surprises. Your Financial Data is Just Facts – No Shame: Don’t fear judgment over debt or messy records. A great accountant sees these as facts to work with—not flaws to criticize. The goal is solutions, not shame. Use Tools That Talk to Each Other: When choosing software, ensure it integrates well with your existing systems. Time-saving connections—like syncing customer info across tools—can be game-changers. One action small business owners can take: One action small business owners can take, according to Nathan McGrath, is to start forecasting now. Rather than only reflecting on past performance, looking ahead with a simple financial forecast helps anticipate tax obligations, manage cash flow, and make smarter business decisions with confidence. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the . It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: The best business moves come from understanding your financial forecast – Nathan McGrath Your numbers aren’t scary—they’re just facts that guide better decisions – Nathan McGrath Automation is the accountant’s shortcut to smarter business – Nathan McGrath
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Margeaux Thomas of Thomas Law: From Kitchen Table to Leading Business Divorce Firm – Discover How She Navigated Partnership Disputes, Achieved 9 Years of Growth to Nine Team Members, and Built a Recognised Practice. (Episode 660 - Margeaux Thomas)
04/22/2025
Margeaux Thomas of Thomas Law: From Kitchen Table to Leading Business Divorce Firm – Discover How She Navigated Partnership Disputes, Achieved 9 Years of Growth to Nine Team Members, and Built a Recognised Practice. (Episode 660 - Margeaux Thomas)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews from , who shared her entrepreneurial journey of growing her law firm specialising in "business divorces". Starting from her kitchen table in 2016 with a single client, her firm has grown to a team of nine members over nine years. Thomas discussed the transition to a niche practice, the demand she experienced, particularly during COVID, and the various aspects of building and scaling her business, including the challenges of hiring and the importance of marketing in a non-recurring service industry. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? One of the hardest things in growing a small business is learning to let go and trust others. In the early stages, founders do everything themselves, but real growth requires delegation—handing off control, hiring the right people, and stepping back from daily operations to focus on strategy. As Margeaux Thomas shared on the podcast, bringing on a managing attorney and leaning into growth and marketing instead of staying in every case was a major shift. It's also tough to manage cash flow, hire well (especially for remote teams), say no to misaligned clients—which she calls "the best money we never made"—and keep believing in your vision before it becomes reality. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Margeaux Thomas mentioned that the business book that helped her the most is The Personal Assistant Advantage. It inspired her to hire a personal assistant, which turned out to be a game-changer. She shared how it helped her offload life admin tasks so she could focus on being present with her family and grow her firm—saying her assistant is better at it than she is and actually loves the work. For Margeaux, that support created space for her to lead more effectively and avoid burnout. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Margeaux Thomas shared that the most impactful learning resource for her has been business coaching—both group and one-on-one. She said it’s been the best investment she’s made since starting her firm. Coaching gave her clarity, accountability, and someone to help her “see around corners.” As for podcasts, she previously listened to Maximum Lawyer, especially in the early stages of growing her law firm. While that podcast has since evolved, it played a big role in her initial professional development. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Margeaux Thomas recommends having a great bookkeeper as one of the most important tools to help grow a small business. She admits that numbers and finance aren’t her strength, so bringing on a solid bookkeeper early helped her stay focused on what she does best—building the business, serving clients, and leading her team. It gave her the clarity and confidence to make smarter business decisions without getting overwhelmed by the financial side. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Margeaux Thomas said if she could give herself advice on day one of starting her business, it would be to reassure herself that this is the best decision she’ll ever make. Despite the fear and uncertainty she felt when leaving her job with no clients lined up, she emphasized that she never looked back and is incredibly grateful she took that leap. She’d remind herself not to catastrophize the risk—because even if it didn’t work out, she could always get another job. Taking that first step was the hardest, but it led to the most rewarding journey of her life. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Rest is just as important as work if you want to lead and grow well – Margeaux Thomas Capacity precedes growth—take the risk, and the reward usually follows – Margeaux Thomas You need to step away from the grind to see the big picture – Margeaux Thomas
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Jason Kramer on Growing Cultivize 30% YoY, Scaling to 6 Staff, Selling His First Biz, Using CRM to Uncover Hidden ROI & Boost Sales, Plus How the 15-Min Lead Response Rule Helped Skyrocket Conversions and Client Trust. (Episode 659 - Jason Kramer)
04/20/2025
Jason Kramer on Growing Cultivize 30% YoY, Scaling to 6 Staff, Selling His First Biz, Using CRM to Uncover Hidden ROI & Boost Sales, Plus How the 15-Min Lead Response Rule Helped Skyrocket Conversions and Client Trust. (Episode 659 - Jason Kramer)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews from Cultivize discusses his entrepreneurial journey, starting with a graphic design business before founding his current CRM strategy consultancy. He highlights the impressive growth of Cultivize, averaging 15 to 30% annually and expanding his team. Jason shares valuable insights into CRM strategy for nurturing leads and demonstrating marketing ROI, emphasising the importance of understanding your target audience. He also offers advice on key aspects of business growth, including hiring, the significance of work-life balance, and lessons learned from his experiences. Jason also touches upon the importance of good financial management and the "Profit First" methodology. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Jason Kramer, the hardest things in growing a small business are finding quality people who are reliable, dependable experts with good communication skills. He also notes that juggling all the different aspects of the business can be difficult for some, though less so for him due to his organised approach. Reflecting on his early days, Jason would advise himself to seek out those who have experience and made mistakes to learn from them and accelerate success. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Jason Kramer's favourite business book is "Profit First" by Mike Michalowicz. He states that this book has significantly impacted how they manage cash flow in their business using a system of multiple bank accounts. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Jason Kramer recommends Donald C Kelly's podcast, "The Sales Evangelist", for valuable techniques and ideas. He also finds Jeff Blanto's "Sales Gravy" sometimes interesting. Additionally, Jason's company, Cultivize, offers "Profit Path", a tool with coaching and ebooks for tracking leads and marketing ROI. The "Grow Small Business Podcast" itself, hosted by Troy Trewin, who interviewed Jason, is also a relevant resource, with a past episode featuring Mike Michalowicz, author of "Profit First". What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Jason Kramer recommends The Sales Evangelist podcast by Donald C. Kelly for practical, actionable sales techniques and Sales Gravy by Jeb Blount for insightful tips on business and selling. He also highlights the importance of mixing in some non-business content for balance, like Conan O'Brien’s podcast, which he enjoys for its humor and engaging interviews. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Jason Kramer’s advice to his day-one self would be: “It’s going to be a hell of a ride, unexpected but worth it.” He emphasizes the importance of learning from those who’ve gone before — seeking out people who’ve made mistakes and grown from them, so you can fast-track your own success by avoiding common pitfalls. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: When uncertain, seek out those who have walked the path before, learned from their mistakes, and use their experiences to accelerate your journey to success – Jason Kramer Technology alone doesn't solve problems; having the right people in place is key to effectively addressing those challenges – Jason Kramer I believe it begins with understanding who you're helping and the problems they face – Jason Kramer
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Master Legal Success with Theo Kapodistrias: Australia Top Lawyer & Founder of Theo Kapodistrias Speaking & Coaching shares expert tips to safeguard your brand, dodge pitfalls & help small businesses grow with confidence. (Episode 658 - Theo Kapodistrias)
04/17/2025
Master Legal Success with Theo Kapodistrias: Australia Top Lawyer & Founder of Theo Kapodistrias Speaking & Coaching shares expert tips to safeguard your brand, dodge pitfalls & help small businesses grow with confidence. (Episode 658 - Theo Kapodistrias)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Amanda Jones interviews , from , an experienced in-house lawyer, speaker, and author. Theo discusses several sneaky legal landmines that small to medium-sized businesses often overlook, such as automatic software renewals, potential breaches of Competition and Consumer Law through misleading product claims, and HR issues related to employment law. He emphasises the importance of establishing good operational processes for managing legal matters and maintaining a central repository for all business contracts and documentation. Furthermore, Theo highlights the value of having clear and easy-to-understand contracts to streamline negotiations and improve productivity. P.s The information shared in this episode is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your circumstances, please consult a qualified legal professional. Other Resources: Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Watch for Sneaky Legal Landmines in Contracts: Many small businesses sign software agreements with hidden clauses like automatic renewals and early termination penalties. Always review the fine print or get legal help before signing anything. Clear and Simple Contracts Save Time and Money: Theo emphasizes using easy-to-understand legal documents. Avoid overly complex language—clear contracts reduce negotiation time and accelerate sales, directly boosting revenue. Protect Customer Privacy – It’s Not Optional: Transparency in how you collect, use, and store personal information is crucial. Be explicit in your privacy policy, get proper consent (especially for images), and prepare for upcoming changes in Australia's Privacy Act that will likely affect smaller businesses too. Legal Doesn’t Have to Be a Handbrake on Innovation: Legal advice is best brought in before launching new products or campaigns. It helps avoid IP issues (like trademark infringements), ensures compliance, and supports sustainable growth—especially important for tech or creative businesses. Create a Legal Safety Net Without Feeling Restricted: Even without an in-house lawyer, businesses can benefit from periodic legal audits. Focus areas should include intellectual property, consumer law, insurance, contracts, and property leases. Prevention saves time, money, and stress later. Centralize and Organize All Your Contracts: Theo’s top actionable tip: gather all contracts into one secure, central location. This makes renewals, compliance checks, and future reviews easier, and helps avoid costly surprises. One action small business owners can take: The One key action that Theo Kapodistrias advises small business owners to take immediately is to find all the contracts that their business has signed up to and put them in one place. He emphasises the importance of keeping these records tight, secure, and knowing where they are so they can be checked to prevent things from going wrong or being missed. Having a central repository of contracts can also be a great document to refer to and can support the business if needed. Amanda Jones, the host, also acknowledges the wisdom of this advice, noting her own scattered digital files . Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the . It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Be aware of the sneaky things in software contracts, like automatic renewals – Theo Kapodistrias Easy to understand, clear and fair documents are going to be a complete game changer – Theo Kapodistrias Transparency is a really big principle for privacy, clearly articulating data collection and use – Theo Kapodistrias
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From Burnout to Brilliance: Kira Leskew of The Eagle Institute on Growing 5 to 50 Staff, Exiting 5 of 7 Businesses & Teaching CEOs to Crush Stress in Minutes Using Meditation, Intuition & High-Conscious Leadership. (Episode 657 - Kira Leskew)
04/15/2025
From Burnout to Brilliance: Kira Leskew of The Eagle Institute on Growing 5 to 50 Staff, Exiting 5 of 7 Businesses & Teaching CEOs to Crush Stress in Minutes Using Meditation, Intuition & High-Conscious Leadership. (Episode 657 - Kira Leskew)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews from . Kira Leskew shares her impressive journey of owning seven businesses, with five successful exits and three reaching seven figures. A particularly notable achievement was growing one business from five to fifty employees in just two and a half years. Currently, at The Eagle Institute, Kira teaches intuition development for CEOs and meditation techniques to manage stress. She emphasises the importance of discipline, consistency, and developing a strong mindset for business success, drawing lessons from her experiences as a former elite athlete. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Kira Leskew, the hardest thing in growing a small business is different for every person. She mentions that having talked to and trained many business owners, she has observed that they face various challenges. Therefore, there isn't one universal "hardest thing" What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Her favorite business book that has helped her the most is "Who: The A Method for Hiring" by Randy Street and Brad Smart. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Kira emphasizes intuition through meditation for insights and values discipline in weekly planning. She highlights tracking metrics like cash flow, profitability, and sales growth as vital for business success. Endless curiosity, questioning peers, and investing in professional development through books, coaching, and events underpin her continuous learning approach. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Kira Leskew recommends developing a disciplined habit of weekly planning as a key tool to grow a small business. She emphasizes the importance of consistently reviewing meaningful metrics—like cash flow, profitability, and sales growth—and holding yourself to high standards. Drawing from her background as an elite swimmer, she believes that just as performance in sports relies on tracking progress and refining technique, business success depends on regular reflection, strategic adjustments, and staying aligned with long-term goals. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Kira Leskew could give herself advice on day one of starting out in business, it would simply be, “It’s gonna be awesome.” This short yet powerful message reflects her belief in embracing the entrepreneurial journey with optimism and confidence. Despite the challenges and growth pains, she trusts that with the right mindset, discipline, and resilience, the experience of building a business will be not only successful but deeply rewarding. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: You can grow fast and still lead with calm, clarity, and kindness – Kira Leskew You don’t need to be loud to lead—just deeply present and willing to listen – Kira Leskew Meditation isn’t about escaping business stress, it’s how you master it – Kira Leskew
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From Bankruptcy to Triumph: Eric Jorgenson’s Journey Reviving Scribe Media, Growing Revenue from $6M to $9M with 25 Staff, Leading Non-Traditional Publishing for Entrepreneurs While Writing Bestsellers and Driving Impact. (Episode 656 - Eric Jorgenson)
04/13/2025
From Bankruptcy to Triumph: Eric Jorgenson’s Journey Reviving Scribe Media, Growing Revenue from $6M to $9M with 25 Staff, Leading Non-Traditional Publishing for Entrepreneurs While Writing Bestsellers and Driving Impact. (Episode 656 - Eric Jorgenson)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews from , who shares his remarkable journey from author to CEO after the company faced bankruptcy. Eric successfully rallied investors to acquire Scribe Media and is now leading its impressive turnaround, projecting growth from $6 million to $9 million. Beyond his leadership at Scribe Media, Eric is also a successful author with over 1.5 million books sold. This conversation delves into his strategies for business revival and leadership insights at Scribe Media. Other Resources: Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Eric Jorgenson said the hardest thing in growing a small business is dealing with entropy, alignment, and constant surprises. He emphasized that it’s not for the faint of heart and requires continuous effort to manage these dynamic challenges. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Eric Jorgenson’s favorite business book that has helped him the most is Poor Charlie’s Almanack. He also mentioned Zero to One by Peter Thiel as an exceptional book for understanding the foundational principles of business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Eric Jorgenson highly recommends Founders Podcast by David Senra. He described it as the most important and impactful podcast, where David dives deep into biographies of the greatest founders in history, extracting powerful lessons and patterns for business growth. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Eric Jorgenson recommends using ChatGPT as a powerful tool to grow a small business. He emphasized that everyone just became 2–10x more productive with it—if they learn to use it well—highlighting its potential to dramatically boost efficiency and innovation. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Eric Jorgenson’s advice to himself on day one of starting out in business would be: "Spend a lot more energy figuring out what to focus on and then focus — build the discipline to reorient quickly and follow through on the most important things." He emphasized the importance of filtering noise, closing loops, and trusting your instincts through repetition and outcomes. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Writing a great book can change your life—and your business – Eric Jorgenson A small business flourishes when everyone rows in the same direction – Eric Jorgenson You’re always one great hire away from transforming your company – Eric Jorgenson
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QFF: How Julie Holmes, Founder of Smarter HQ, Empowers Small Business Owners to Scale Fast with AI—From Smarter Processes & Personalized Experiences to Her 20-60-20 Framework & Treating AI Like an Intern. (Episode 655 - Julie Holmes)
04/10/2025
QFF: How Julie Holmes, Founder of Smarter HQ, Empowers Small Business Owners to Scale Fast with AI—From Smarter Processes & Personalized Experiences to Her 20-60-20 Framework & Treating AI Like an Intern. (Episode 655 - Julie Holmes)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Michael Denehey interviews , founder of , who provides valuable insights on achieving success in business through the strategic use of AI. Julie explains how AI can help small businesses become more efficient and effective, enabling them to scale and compete with larger organisations. She introduces the 20-60-20 framework for utilising generative AI and emphasises the importance of human oversight in the process. Key takeaways include treating AI like an intern and practical first steps for small business owners to start experimenting with AI tools like ChatGPT. Ultimately, the podcast underscores that embracing AI is crucial for small businesses to avoid falling behind their competitors. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Start with Your To-Do List to Apply AI: AI enables small businesses to scale and compete with larger organisations in ways they couldn't before. Julie states that AI can help businesses "sell smarter, serve better and save time" . To get started with AI, small business: Owners should look at their "to do list" for tasks that are not in their "zone of genius" or are time-consuming, such as emails, social media, and writing proposals. Julie notes that AI can help overcome the difficulty of starting these tasks. Use the 20-60-20 Framework: Julie Holmes introduces the 20-60-20 framework, also known as "you do you", for using generative AI. The first 20% is on the owner for strategy and prompting, the AI does 60% of the work, and the final 20% is crucial for personalisation and ensuring the output aligns with the brand. Treat AI Like an Intern, Not a Magic Wand: AI isn’t magic—it needs context. Train it like you would a new hire: giv.e it background, examples, and feedback to get the best outcomes. Solve Real Problems First—Then Choose the Tool: Don’t start by exploring tools. Start with a problem (e.g., note-taking, content creation, or customer personalization) and then find the best AI tool to solve it. Enhance Customer Experience with Smart Personalization: AI can help tailor messages, proposals, and services by researching customer details and needs, letting small businesses deliver big-brand experiences. One action small business owners can take: One immediate action small business owners can take is to identify tasks on their "to-do list" that are not in their "zone of genius" or that are time-consuming, such as emails, social media, and writing proposals, and consider how AI could assist with these. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the . It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: AI is like electricity—it powers everything, but only if you plug it in — Julie Holmes Small businesses don’t need more arms, they need smarter tools—and that’s AI — Julie Holmes You don’t need to be tech-savvy to use AI, but you must be technique-savvy — Julie Holmes
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Dr. Donna Smith Bellinger of DS Bellinger Consulting on Building a 6-Figure Business, Mastering Sales Without Selling, and Why the ‘Queen of Revenue Generation’ Believes Confidence Is the Ultimate Sales Tool. (Episode 654 - Dr. Donna Smith Bellinger)
04/08/2025
Dr. Donna Smith Bellinger of DS Bellinger Consulting on Building a 6-Figure Business, Mastering Sales Without Selling, and Why the ‘Queen of Revenue Generation’ Believes Confidence Is the Ultimate Sales Tool. (Episode 654 - Dr. Donna Smith Bellinger)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , founder of , specializes in helping business owners and sales teams enhance their sales performance by mastering revenue-generating conversations. She launched the business part-time nine years ago, growing it into a thriving enterprise with a team of five and multiple six-figure revenues. Dr. Bellinger also brings a wealth of entrepreneurial experience, including successfully exiting a tech company. In this discussion, she shares her journey, the challenges she faced as a woman and a person of color, the critical role of financial literacy, the art of delegation, and the importance of fostering a strong business culture. Other Resources: Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Dr. Donna Smith Bellinger, the hardest thing about growing a small business is understanding your value statement. She emphasises not trying to be all things to all people within your area of expertise. You simply cannot please everyone, so it is best to focus on what you do best and excel at that. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? According to Dr. Donna Smith Bellinger, her favourite business book that has helped her the most is The E Myth. However, she also mentions that The Purpose Driven Life, while not a business book, was very important to her. Therefore, she highlights two books as being particularly impactful. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Dr. Donna Smith Bellinger, doesn't recommend specific podcasts or online learning tools. Instead, she emphasises the importance of tailored research within the specific industry of a new client to remain relevant. She takes "a little bit of everything" for her own professional development. The host, Troy Trewin, suggests the Grow Small Business podcast itself as a helpful resource. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? She recommends the most direct tool recommendation for growing a small business is to have a good, robust CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system. She states that the days of just using a spreadsheet are over. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Her advice for herself on day one of starting out in business would be straightforward: "If you can't laugh at it, don't do it" Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Confidence is your most powerful sales strategy—own it before you pitch it – Dr. Donna Smith Bellinger Revenue generation starts with a mindset, not a marketing plan – Dr. Donna Smith Bellinger Stop asking for permission to succeed—just go get it – Dr. Donna Smith Bellinger
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From Bankruptcy to Beverage Empire: Stefan Di Benedetto on Building SOLBEVI into a Global Brand, Bouncing Back in His 30s, and the Grit, Growth & Bold Moves Behind His Remarkable Comeback and International Expansion. (Episode 653 - Stefan Di Benedetto)
04/06/2025
From Bankruptcy to Beverage Empire: Stefan Di Benedetto on Building SOLBEVI into a Global Brand, Bouncing Back in His 30s, and the Grit, Growth & Bold Moves Behind His Remarkable Comeback and International Expansion. (Episode 653 - Stefan Di Benedetto)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews from . Stefan discussed the phenomenal growth of his limoncello brand, including more than doubling sales and expanding into New Zealand. He shared insights into the challenges of starting solo and the importance of team building. The conversation also touched upon key marketing strategies like "liquid on lips" and the complexities of funding rapid growth in the FMCG industry. Stefan offered valuable lessons learned during his entrepreneurial journey. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Stefan Di Benedetto believes the hardest thing in growing a small business is having to do everything yourself, especially at the start. Stefan recounted his experience of managing cross-functional tasks such as marketing, finance, and sales simultaneously. He described physically going from venue to venue during the day and then working until midnight on administrative tasks like paying invoices and cash flow forecasting What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Stefan Di Benedetto stated that his favorite business book that has helped him the most is "Shoe Dog" by Phil Knight. He mentioned that the book reminds him of similar situations he has gone through in his business, such as taking risks and experiencing financial difficulties, and it provides him with a lot of motivation. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Stefan Di Benedetto mentioned that he doesn't really use any online tools for his professional development. Instead, he listens to a lot of business-related podcasts. He specifically enjoys podcasts where he can learn from people who have exited businesses and built successful companies. He also listens to podcasts that discuss marketing and marketing strategies, including what's current and how to be strategic. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Stefan Di Benedetto recommends using Xero as a key tool to grow a small business. He emphasizes its value in helping business owners understand their numbers, which he believes is crucial for making informed decisions and sustaining growth. He also highlights the importance of working with a good bookkeeper or accountant who can help interpret those numbers, rather than just recording them. This combination, according to Stefan, provides clarity and supports smarter business decisions. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? On day one, Stefan Di Benedetto would tell himself, “It’s going to be hard.” He admits he was likely naive about the challenges of his new industry, especially compared to his previous experience in consultancy and construction, where he felt more confident. The unexpected difficulties taught him that persistence and resilience are essential. His core advice to himself would be: “It’s going to be hard, but just don’t back down.” Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Back yourself, because no one else will believe in your vision like you do – Stefan Di Benedetto The wins feel amazing, but the lessons come from the hard days – Stefan Di Benedetto Understanding your numbers isn’t optional—it’s essential for growth – Stefan Di Benedetto
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QFF: Simone de Haas International: How Simone de Haas Built a Thriving Business by Blending Theatrical Brilliance, Storytelling & Leadership to Help Entrepreneurs Elevate Influence, Stand Out & Drive Business Growth. (Episode 652 - Simone de Haas)
04/03/2025
QFF: Simone de Haas International: How Simone de Haas Built a Thriving Business by Blending Theatrical Brilliance, Storytelling & Leadership to Help Entrepreneurs Elevate Influence, Stand Out & Drive Business Growth. (Episode 652 - Simone de Haas)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Amanda Jones interviews , founder of . Simone shares her journey from performing on stage to coaching business leaders in storytelling and powerful communication. She discusses the importance of "business theatre", blending performance skills with leadership to create impactful presentations. Tune in to hear how Simone helps professionals master stage presence and craft compelling business narratives. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Storytelling is a Business Superpower – A compelling story can captivate clients, build trust, and make your brand memorable. Learn how to craft narratives that resonate with your audience. Business is Theatre in Motion – Like skilled performers who captivate audiences, effective business leaders orchestrate their presence with purpose, balancing authentic expression with strategic delivery to inspire and influence. Leadership Requires Authentic Presence – Whether commanding a boardroom, rallying a team, or captivating an audience, leaders who blend powerful communication with genuine authenticity don't just convey messages—they ignite action, forge lasting connections, and transform ordinary interactions into defining moments that propel their vision forward. Creativity Drives Innovation – Thinking outside the box, as in theatre, helps business owners stay ahead in a competitive market. Encourage creativity in problem-solving and branding. Emotional Connection Wins Clients – People buy based on emotion and justify with logic. Engaging storytelling and expressive communication foster deeper client relationships. Adaptability is Key – Just as actors adjust to different roles, small business owners must embrace change, pivot when needed, and stay agile in their industries. One action small business owners can take: According to Simone de Haas, one action small business owners can take is to master their signature story. Crafting a compelling and authentic narrative that reflects their brand, values, and mission helps build deeper connections with clients, enhances credibility, and makes their business more memorable in a crowded market. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the . It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Your voice is your power—use it to inspire, influence, and impact – Simone de Haas Confidence on stage and in business starts with owning your story – Simone de Haas Great storytelling turns ordinary businesses into unforgettable brands. – Simone de Haas
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From $200K to $1.2M in Just 2 Years – Marissa Seeley on Scaling By Design Physio, Building a Strong Team Culture, Leveraging Google Reviews, and the Key Business Lessons That Drove Rapid Growth. (Episode 651 - Marissa Seeley)
04/01/2025
From $200K to $1.2M in Just 2 Years – Marissa Seeley on Scaling By Design Physio, Building a Strong Team Culture, Leveraging Google Reviews, and the Key Business Lessons That Drove Rapid Growth. (Episode 651 - Marissa Seeley)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , co-founder of , a physiotherapy business based in Hobart, Australia, providing high-quality physiotherapy services with an emphasis on personalised care, injury rehabilitation, and ongoing physical wellness built around consistency in team culture and service delivery, ensuring that every client receives a top-tier experience. Other Resources: Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year.. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: 1. What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? One of the hardest things in growing a small business is scaling without losing quality or company culture. Finding and retaining the right people is a major challenge, as is managing cash flow during rapid growth. Additionally, the emotional ups and downs of entrepreneurship can be difficult to navigate. 2. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? One of Marissa’s favorite business book is The Code of the Extraordinary Mind by Vishen Lakhiani. It talks about the 12 elements of life. And if you can fill all of the buckets, then you'll feel whole, which is really nice. 3. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Marissa says “Build with Leila Hormozi”is always in her ears all the time. She says it is very helpful to anyone that has staff because she simplifies all concepts into manageable, bite sized pieces that you can apply literally that day, so that you're not just listening, you're actually applying. 4. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? One of the most effective tools for growing a small business is leveraging Google Reviews and SEO to improve online visibility. Customer relationship management (CRM) software like HubSpot or ActiveCampaign can help manage customer interactions and automate marketing. Automation tools like Zapier can streamline operations and save time by connecting different apps and services. 5. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? If I could give myself advice on day one, I would emphasize the importance of focusing on building systems rather than just working hard. Patience is key—success doesn’t happen overnight, and consistent effort pays off in the long run. Networking and building relationships early on can open doors to new opportunities. Lastly, keeping a close eye on finances from the beginning can prevent many future challenges. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: “Growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about building a team and culture that delivers consistently, every single day.” - Marissa Seeley “Google Reviews became one of our biggest game-changers. We didn’t just rely on word of mouth; we made sure potential clients could see real results before they even walked through the door.” - Marissa Seeley “The best investment we made wasn’t just in marketing or operations—it was in ourselves. Learning from mentors and refining our leadership changed everything.” - Marissa Seeley
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Maxwell Nee of Score App: From Burning the Boats with No Plan to 7M ARR - Unconventional Business Growth Strategies, the Importance of Self-Awareness & the Hardest Part of Scaling Your Small Business. (Episode 650 - Maxwell Nee)
03/30/2025
Maxwell Nee of Score App: From Burning the Boats with No Plan to 7M ARR - Unconventional Business Growth Strategies, the Importance of Self-Awareness & the Hardest Part of Scaling Your Small Business. (Episode 650 - Maxwell Nee)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , the mastermind behind , a platform revolutionizing lead generation for small businesses. Maxwell shares innovative strategies to boost customer engagement and drive growth. Discover how ScoreApp helps businesses gain unmatched insights into their audience, turning data into actionable results. Tune in to learn game-changing approaches to thrive in today’s competitive market! Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Maxwell Nee, the hardest thing in growing a small business is finding the right people. He illustrates this by pointing to well-known success stories, noting that these achievements were often the result of small, effective teams or "pods". He gives examples like Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak of Apple, Sergey Brin and Larry Page of Google, and Eduardo Saverin and Mark Zuckerberg as the initial forces behind Facebook. While acknowledging that some individuals within these teams might have been more influential than others, Maxwell emphasizes that the contribution of two, three, or four individuals working together was crucial to realizing their success. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Maxwell Nee credited two transformative books for shaping his entrepreneurial approach: "OverSUBSCRIBED" by Daniel Priestley, which revolutionized his mindset on creating unstoppable demand by making businesses "must-haves," and "The Outsiders" by William N. Thorndike, which revealed how unconventional CEOs achieved outsized returns through radical capital discipline and independent thinking. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Maxwell Nee mentioned that he doesn't really have specific great podcasts or online learning tools to recommend for professional development. While he listens to podcasts like "Diary of a CEO" and the one he was being interviewed on, his preferred approach is to become deeply engaged with specific individuals who align with his learning objectives at a particular time. He typically spends around three months focusing on one person, thoroughly reading their books and listening to their podcasts multiple times before moving on to someone else. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Maxwell Nee suggests that small business owners can benefit from using time blocking to manage their many responsibilities more effectively by pre-planning their schedules. He also highlights Score App, a lead generation software that uses quiz marketing to gamify the process and significantly increase conversion rates while filtering out unsuitable leads, as a valuable resource. In terms of professional development, Maxwell prefers to deeply immerse himself in the work of specific individuals for extended periods rather than broadly following podcasts or online learning. Two influential books he recommends are Oversubscribe by Daniel Priestley and Outsiders, which offers insights from unconventional CEOs. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Maxwell Nee would tell his younger self on day one of starting out to have a deliberate conversation about the learning curve . He wishes he had the awareness to work for free with someone he admired in a cool industry for about six months to "sponge it all up". He believes this approach would have been faster than his initial self-funded journey, where he paid for his own learning and personal expenses Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success isn’t about working harder; it’s about working smarter with the right people – Maxwell Nee Entrepreneurship is a mindset—adapt, innovate, and keep moving forward – Maxwell Nee Growth happens when you stop thinking small and start acting bold – Maxwell Nee
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QFF: Wally’s Creative Director shares tips on building a unique brand identity, from visuals and tone to avoiding imitation and AI overuse, offering creative ideas to inspire small businesses to elevate their branding. (Episode 649 - Marcus Bendall)
03/27/2025
QFF: Wally’s Creative Director shares tips on building a unique brand identity, from visuals and tone to avoiding imitation and AI overuse, offering creative ideas to inspire small businesses to elevate their branding. (Episode 649 - Marcus Bendall)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Amanda Jones interviews , Creative Director at , who shares 17 years of branding and design expertise. He discusses common branding mistakes, such as imitation, and emphasizes the importance of originality to stand out. Marcus highlights how small businesses can effectively create a strong brand identity on a budget. He provides practical tips for developing consistent visuals and tone to establish trust and professionalism. Tune in for actionable insights on crafting a brand that resonates and leaves a lasting impression. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Brand as First and Last Impression: A brand starts with visual identity but is ultimately defined by how customers feel and talk about your business after interacting with it. Importance of Originality: Avoid imitating competitors. Instead, use inspiration from other industries and regions to create a unique and memorable brand. Consistency Builds Trust: Ensure consistency in colors, fonts, and overall style to establish a recognizable and professional brand presence. Start Simple, Scale Later: For businesses with limited budgets, simple logos and consistent visuals can work effectively until resources allow for professional branding. Practical DIY Tips: Use free tools to explore fonts and colors that align with your brand's personality, and seek honest feedback to refine your choices. Adapt and Future-Proof: A strong brand identity evolves over time and must be designed to grow with the business while maintaining its core values. One action small business owners can take: Marcus Bendall suggests that small business owners focus on creating a consistent visual identity as a starting point. Choose a font, color, and style that represent your business, and use them consistently across all materials. This builds recognition and trust while ensuring your brand looks professional and cohesive. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the . It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: A brand is not just a logo; it's how people feel about your business after every interaction – Marcus Bendall Your brand should communicate who you are, not just what you do – Marcus Bendall Great design evokes emotion and creates lasting connections with your audience – Marcus Bendall
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Revolutionizing Men's Fashion: How Anya Cheng’s Taylor.Style Leveraged AI, Subscription Models, and Sustainability to Achieve 10x Growth, Millions in Revenue, and Scale from 2 Founders to Over 20 Team Members in Just 2 Years. (Episode 648 - Anya Cheng)
03/25/2025
Revolutionizing Men's Fashion: How Anya Cheng’s Taylor.Style Leveraged AI, Subscription Models, and Sustainability to Achieve 10x Growth, Millions in Revenue, and Scale from 2 Founders to Over 20 Team Members in Just 2 Years. (Episode 648 - Anya Cheng)
In this episode, Troy Trewin interviews , founder of , an AI-powered men's fashion startup. Anya shares how she scaled the business from 2 founders to over 20 team members, achieving 10x growth and generating millions in revenue. She discusses how AI-driven clothing subscriptions provide a hassle-free shopping experience while promoting sustainability. With insights from her leadership roles at Meta, eBay, and McDonald’s, Anya offers valuable lessons on innovation and scaling a fast-growing startup. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on building a tech-driven, customer-focused business. Anya Cheng, CEO of Taylor.Style, is a Silicon Valley entrepreneur recognized in "Girls in Tech 40 Under 40" for her expertise in AI, product management, and marketing. She played a key role in launching Facebook and Instagram Shopping, led new business at eBay, and advanced McDonald’s global delivery. A best-selling author, TED speaker, and professor, she teaches at Northwestern University and 500 Global. Taelor has won top awards, including Draper University’s Startup Competition and a "Startup to Watch" title. Mention code “PODCAST” for 25% off your first order! Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Anya Cheng believes the hardest part of growing a small business is balancing priorities amidst an overwhelming workload. As a startup founder, everything feels important, making it challenging to focus. She emphasizes the value of seeking guidance from investors and external perspectives to step back, reassess, and make strategic decisions effectively. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Anya Cheng's favorite business book is "Get to Aha!" by Andy Cunningham. She appreciates how the book emphasizes the importance of clear positioning, using examples like Disney's "Happiest Place on Earth" and Amazon's "Most Customer-Centric Company." It has guided her in maintaining focus and defining her company's unique value proposition. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Anya Cheng recommends leveraging founder meetups and networking events, such as those hosted by Startup Grind and Open Future Forums in the Bay Area. She finds these opportunities invaluable for gaining insights, sharing experiences, and learning directly from other entrepreneurs in the small business and startup ecosystem. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Anya Cheng emphasizes the importance of leveraging tools that enhance emotional well-being for small business growth. She recommends the "How We Feel" app, which helps track and manage emotions, fostering mental clarity and resilience. According to Anya, a healthy and focused mindset is vital for effective leadership and team success. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? On day one, Anya Cheng would advise herself to prioritize building relationships and engaging with the community early. She emphasizes that success in business requires strong connections and collaboration, not just focusing on executing tasks. By networking and integrating into the business ecosystem sooner, she believes she could have accelerated growth and created more opportunities for her startup. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success is not about doing everything; it’s about focusing on what truly matters – Anya Cheng The key to scaling a business is leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and customer experience – Anya Cheng True impact comes when you step out of your bubble and see the world through others’ eyes – Anya Cheng
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Ian Myers of Oceans: Scaling from 2 to 50+ Team Members in Sri Lanka, Driving Rapid Global Growth with Innovative Outsourcing, Leveraging Referral Marketing, and Thriving with Less Than $100k in Marketing Spend Over Three Years. (Episode 647 - Ian Myers)
03/23/2025
Ian Myers of Oceans: Scaling from 2 to 50+ Team Members in Sri Lanka, Driving Rapid Global Growth with Innovative Outsourcing, Leveraging Referral Marketing, and Thriving with Less Than $100k in Marketing Spend Over Three Years. (Episode 647 - Ian Myers)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , founder of , shares his journey of scaling from 2 to 50+ team members in just three years. By leveraging Sri Lanka-based operational outsourcing and referral marketing, Ian achieved remarkable global growth. He reveals how Oceans thrived with minimal marketing spend of less than $100k. Ian also discusses overcoming challenges, maintaining team culture, and his unique approach to recruitment. Discover actionable insights on scaling effectively and sustainably. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Ian Myers believes the hardest thing in growing a small business is acquiring customers. He highlights the challenges of standing out in a crowded market, dealing with fragmented attention, and the rising costs of customer acquisition, such as skyrocketing ad expenses on platforms like Facebook. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Ian Myers does not read business books. As a literature major, he prefers reading fiction and historical biographies. However, he emphasizes learning from advisors, team members, and personal experiences rather than relying on traditional business literature. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Ian Myers recommends Morning Brew podcasts and newsletters as excellent resources for business insights and updates. He also mentioned Troy Trewin's podcast, Grow Small Business, as a valuable source for learning about business growth and overcoming challenges. Additionally, Ian values real-world experiences, networking, and seeking guidance from advisors and peers for tailored learning and support. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Ian Myers recommends using Google Workspace (G Suite) as a powerful and versatile tool for growing a small business. He highlights its simplicity and effectiveness, particularly Google Sheets, which he believes can handle most business needs during the early stages. He advises avoiding overly complex tools and focusing on practical, user-friendly solutions. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Ian Myers advises himself to avoid being too hard on himself or his team. He emphasizes the importance of not overthinking small mistakes, recognizing that they often don’t matter in the long run. Ian highlights the value of patience, self-compassion, and focusing on building a resilient mindset for long-term success. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Real businesses should be able to grow on the strength of referrals alone – Ian Myers Recruitment is where everything begins; it’s the foundation of success – Ian Myers Growing quickly is as challenging as not growing at all—it comes with its own set of pains – Ian Myers
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QFF: Curiosity Sparks Success: Scott Ko Reinvents Business Growth with the Curiosity Mindset, Innovative Systems & Leadership Strategies – Discover how curiosity fosters sustainable success in today's dynamic business landscape. (Episode 646 - Scott Ko)
03/20/2025
QFF: Curiosity Sparks Success: Scott Ko Reinvents Business Growth with the Curiosity Mindset, Innovative Systems & Leadership Strategies – Discover how curiosity fosters sustainable success in today's dynamic business landscape. (Episode 646 - Scott Ko)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Amanda Jones interviews of and explores how radical curiosity fuels innovation and business success. He shares strategies to balance creativity with operational efficiency and adapt systems for modern challenges. Scott emphasises questioning norms to stay relevant in a fast-changing market. His insights on leadership, innovation, and growth offer actionable advice for entrepreneurs. Discover how a mindset of curiosity can transform your approach to business. Dive into thought-provoking content and subscribe for fresh perspectives via , a hub of powerful insights on business, leadership, education, systems-thinking, and personal growth. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Question Your Status Quo: Regularly ask why you do things the way you do. Put your business under the microscope with the classic 5 Whys. This practice can uncover outdated methods, inefficiencies, and create opportunities for innovation. Shorten Business Planning Cycles: Business lifecycles are drastically shortening. Trends can come and go within a quarter. Keep an eye on your destination, but hold your operational business planning lightly so you can adapt to change nimbly. This isn’t about constantly redesigning your business; it’s about a mindset that keeps you open to change. Before You Scale Your Business, Know Your Business: Scaling your business isn’t just about 10x-ing your clients. If you don’t understand how your business is put together and how it can adapt to growth, adding more clients can be a recipe for disaster; like adding jet fuel to a car engine. Understand your business and how it fits together, then you’ll be ready to tackle growth in a genuine, sustainable way. Curiosity Will Be Your Competitive Edge: Curiosity isn’t about asking more questions or just taking an interest in new things; it’s an ongoing practice of thinking differently, of thinking better. Curiosity is about deeply understanding what you know, why, and how you integrate new information into your business. Businesses don't transform until leaders transform their thinking first. Reassess Regularly And Holistically: Look at both your business and your people. Your business is nothing without your people, and your people work together because your business. So take time to check-in on both, to see if your efforts are aligned with your goals, ensuring they are both meaningful and sustainable for long-term success. One action small business owners can take: According to Scott Ko, one action small business owners should take is simply to question a key process in their business. Ask, "Why do we do it this way? Is it still effective or relevant?" Whenever you feel stuck, unclear, or frustrated, this simple act of curiosity can empower you to uncover opportunities for improvement and drive meaningful change. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the . It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Curiosity is the key to unlocking new possibilities in business and leadership – Scott Ko The pace of change demands new thinking. Your competitive advantage will be a mindset of curiosity. – Scott Ko To thrive, hold your assumptions lightly and your vision firmly – Scott Ko
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From Zero to Visionary: Amanda Lemmage’s Journey Building Skinevity Med Spa with 4 Team Members, 300% Revenue Growth, and Top Industry Awards – Balancing Leadership, Innovation, and Community Impact for Wellness Success. (Episode 645 - Amanda Lemmage)
03/18/2025
From Zero to Visionary: Amanda Lemmage’s Journey Building Skinevity Med Spa with 4 Team Members, 300% Revenue Growth, and Top Industry Awards – Balancing Leadership, Innovation, and Community Impact for Wellness Success. (Episode 645 - Amanda Lemmage)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , the visionary behind , shares her inspiring journey of transforming a traditional spa into a thriving wellness clinic. Starting solo in 2013, she achieved 300% revenue growth and built a team of four. Amanda discusses her passion for community involvement, leveraging patient satisfaction, and innovative treatments to create a wellness destination. She also reveals how she self-funded her business and earned accolades like Vanity Fair and Vogue features. Tune in for insights on leadership, resilience, and balancing professional growth with personal well-being. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Amanda Lemmage, the hardest thing in growing a small business is having patience and persevering through struggles. She emphasizes that success doesn’t happen overnight and requires years of experience, learning from failures, and maintaining a positive mindset to overcome challenges. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Amanda Lemmage mentioned "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen Covey as her favorite business book that has helped her the most. She also expressed appreciation for "Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill as another impactful read. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Amanda Lemmage recommends two great podcasts for small business growth: The Office Hours Podcast by David Meltzer, offering valuable business insights and discussions on gratitude, and The Ray C Show from Singapore, featuring diverse and inspiring business topics. These resources help expand horizons through impactful interviews and discussions. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Amanda Lemmage highly recommends finding a mentor as a key tool for growing a small business. She emphasizes that mentors provide invaluable guidance by sharing their experiences, successes, and lessons learned, helping business owners avoid pitfalls and make informed decisions. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Amanda Lemmage’s advice to her day-one self in business would be to stay open-minded and aware of everything around her. She stresses the importance of not limiting oneself to preconceived ideas, being receptive to new opportunities, learning from people encountered along the journey, and recognizing the value they bring. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Being a great leader starts with setting the example you want others to follow – Amanda Lemmage Staying true to your goals while embracing change is essential for lasting success – Amanda Lemmage Your energy as a leader impacts not just your team but everyone who walks through your door – Amanda Lemmage
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Terence Tam of Radical Marketing: Scaling to 10 Team Members, Growing Revenue 10x to $700K AUD, and Helping Educators Worldwide Succeed by Filling Webinars with Strategic Funnels and Retainer-Based Marketing Expertise. (Episode 644 - Terence Tam)
03/16/2025
Terence Tam of Radical Marketing: Scaling to 10 Team Members, Growing Revenue 10x to $700K AUD, and Helping Educators Worldwide Succeed by Filling Webinars with Strategic Funnels and Retainer-Based Marketing Expertise. (Episode 644 - Terence Tam)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , founder of , a leading agency specializing in helping educators and coaches fill webinars through strategic funnels. Terence shares his journey of scaling his business to 10 team members and achieving 10x revenue growth to $700K AUD annually. He highlights the importance of embracing failure, building strong team values, and maintaining work-life balance. Terence also discusses his favorite business books and strategies for success in the competitive marketing space. Tune in for insights into growing a global agency and thriving as an entrepreneur. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Terence Tam, the hardest thing in growing a small business is the feeling of being alone and misunderstood. He explained that even close loved ones and friends often don’t fully understand the challenges entrepreneurs face, which can make the journey isolating. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Terence Tam's favorite business book that has helped him the most is Who Not How by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy. He shared that the book emphasizes the importance of delegating tasks to others to free up time and focus on growing the business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Terence Tam recommends several resources to help small business owners grow. Key podcasts include Digital Marketer (for digital marketing insights), Ad Leaks (focused on ad management), and Dan Sullivan's Mastermind Group (for strategic advice and networking). For courses, he suggests Digital Marketer and Dan Sullivan's Mastermind. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Terence Tam highly recommends Go High Level, a powerful all-in-one marketing tool for small businesses. It includes features like landing pages, email and SMS marketing, AI integration, and CRM capabilities—all for an affordable price of around $99/month. He highlights its value for businesses looking to automate and scale their marketing efforts efficiently. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Terence Tam's advice to his younger self on day one of starting a business is: "Don't be afraid to fail. Don't be afraid to make mistakes and just fail forward fast." He believes the key is to embrace failure as a learning process, take risks, and focus on living a fulfilling life without regrets, rather than settling for comfort. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Don't be afraid to fail—fail forward fast and grow stronger — Terence Tam A great offer and the right message can scale your business to limitless heights — Terence Tam Success isn’t about avoiding mistakes, it’s about learning from them — Terence Tam
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QFF: Joe Burrill, Founder of Just Website Brokerage, shares how he built a leading online business brokerage, navigated Flippa, AI, and SEO challenges, and drove client success with tailored strategies and expert deal-making. (Episode 643 - Joe Burrill)
03/13/2025
QFF: Joe Burrill, Founder of Just Website Brokerage, shares how he built a leading online business brokerage, navigated Flippa, AI, and SEO challenges, and drove client success with tailored strategies and expert deal-making. (Episode 643 - Joe Burrill)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Troy Trewin interviews , founder of , shares how he built a leading online business brokerage specializing in buying and selling digital businesses. Joe discusses navigating Flippa, AI, and SEO challenges, highlighting the impact of Google’s Helpful Content Update. He also explains valuation strategies, deal structuring, and his passion for helping clients achieve success through expert deal-making. This episode offers actionable insights for anyone looking to sell or acquire an online business. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Prepare Your Business for Sale: Ensure accurate financial records, a clear profit-and-loss statement, and transparency about your business’s operations to attract serious buyers. Timing Matters: Sell your business when it’s performing well, as a growing trend in revenue and traffic is more appealing to buyers than a declining one. Understand Valuation: Businesses are often valued using a multiple of Seller’s Discretionary Earnings (SDE). High-quality businesses with stable revenue streams and minimal owner involvement command higher multiples. Highlight Opportunities: Showcase untapped potential areas like new markets, unactivated revenue streams, or growth strategies to appeal to buyers and maximize your business’s value. Be Flexible with Deal Structures: Consider vendor financing or installment plans to make your business more accessible to buyers, especially for higher-value transactions. Leverage Professional Help: Engaging an experienced broker like Just Website Brokerage can streamline the selling process, ensure better deal-making, and provide access to a larger network of potential buyers. One action small business owners can take: According to Joe Burrill, the one action small business owners should take is to organize their financial records and create a clear profit-and-loss statement. This foundational step is crucial for understanding business value and attracting serious buyers. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the . It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Transparency is key when selling your business; honesty builds trust and attracts the right buyers – Joe Burrill Know your numbers; understanding your profit and loss is the foundation of a successful sale – Joe Burrill The best deals happen when both buyer and seller feel they've won — balance is the art of deal-making – Joe Burrill
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Janelle Jarman Success: Wells Home Maintenance’s Growth from $50K to $2.8M Revenue with 39 Team Members, Excelling in Communication, Customer Satisfaction, and Building a Sustainable Business in Home and Aged Care Services. (Episode 642 - Janelle Jarman
03/11/2025
Janelle Jarman Success: Wells Home Maintenance’s Growth from $50K to $2.8M Revenue with 39 Team Members, Excelling in Communication, Customer Satisfaction, and Building a Sustainable Business in Home and Aged Care Services. (Episode 642 - Janelle Jarman
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , founder of , shares her inspiring journey from starting with $50K to achieving $2.8M revenue and leading a team of 39. Specializing in home and aged care services, Janelle highlights the power of communication and customer satisfaction in driving growth. She discusses her challenges in managing staff and scaling operations sustainably. Tune in to learn about her innovative marketing strategies and how she created a business that empowers employees and delights clients. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Janelle Jarman, the hardest thing in growing a small business is managing people. She emphasizes that dealing with staff-related challenges, such as hiring the right individuals and meeting client expectations as the business scales, has been one of the most demanding aspects of her journey. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Janelle Jarman’s favorite business book is Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin. She appreciates its lessons on accountability, leadership, and taking full responsibility, which have greatly influenced her approach to managing and growing her business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Janelle Jarman recommends using Audible for professional development, as it allows her to listen to books and learn on the go. She values utilizing downtime, such as driving or walking, to invest in continuous learning and growth. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Janelle Jarman advises focusing on foundational elements like proper HR systems and safety setups. She emphasizes the importance of starting with the right insurance and resources to create a strong and reliable business structure. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Janelle Jarman's advice to herself on day one of starting out in business would be: "Don’t worry about what people think of you. Just do it and follow your gut, because your gut is right." She also wishes she had started her journey 10 years earlier. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Communication is the key to any relationship, whether with clients or team members – Janelle Jarman Strong foundations in HR and safety are the backbone of a growing business – Janelle Jarman Success is watching your team grow in confidence and self-worth – Janelle Jarman
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From Spare Bedroom to Success: Mark LaScola’s Inspiring Journey of Building On The Mark, Transforming Organization Design, Growing to 40 Team Members Over 35 Years, and Achieving a Landmark Acquisition in 2024. (Episode 641 - Mark LaScola)
03/09/2025
From Spare Bedroom to Success: Mark LaScola’s Inspiring Journey of Building On The Mark, Transforming Organization Design, Growing to 40 Team Members Over 35 Years, and Achieving a Landmark Acquisition in 2024. (Episode 641 - Mark LaScola)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , founder of , a professional services firm specializing in organization design. Mark shares his 35-year journey, growing from a spare bedroom startup to a team of 40, culminating in a 2024 acquisition. He reveals insights on balancing leadership, resilience, and team collaboration. Mark also discusses the importance of documenting processes for scaling success. Don’t miss his advice on creating sustainable change and staying agile in business. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Mark LaScola believes the hardest thing in growing a small business is perseverance. He highlights the challenges of getting up every day, coping with ambiguity, and consistently putting one foot in front of the other despite setbacks. Mark emphasizes the importance of resilience, maintaining health, and finding ways to handle the psychological and physical demands of running a business over time. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Mark LaScola's favorite business books include "Good to Great" by Jim Collins, "The Learning Organization" by Peter Senge, and Edgar Schein's works on process consultation. He also admires early communication works by Virginia Satir, which have profoundly influenced his approach to leadership and organizational design. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Mark LaScola recommends exploring a variety of podcasts and online learning resources to grow a small business. While he doesn’t focus on any single resource, he values content on economics, behavioral science, and creative industries for diverse perspectives. Mark avoids overly popularized shows and prefers podcasts with substance and actionable insights, such as those focusing on behavioral economics, leadership, and business strategy. He believes branching out beyond one’s industry can spark valuable ideas and foster innovation. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Mark LaScola emphasizes the importance of listening to your customers and adapting your products or services based on market trends and feedback. While he doesn't highlight a specific tool, he recommends mastering strategic planning and understanding how to anticipate and respond to changes in the marketplace. He believes these skills are essential for staying competitive and fostering sustainable business growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Mark LaScola’s advice for starting out in business revolves around resilience, passion, and adaptability. He emphasizes following your instincts and staying focused on your vision, even amidst uncertainties. Challenges are inevitable, but they teach resilience and the importance of solving problems early to create options. Building a strong support system is essential for navigating tough times, while celebrating small wins helps maintain momentum. Above all, he encourages staying grounded, planning for the unexpected, and embracing the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Follow your passion, but stay grounded and ready for the unexpected – Mark LaScola Success begins with listening to your customers and adapting to their needs – Mark LaScola Resilience is the key to navigating the inevitable challenges of business – Mark LaScola
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QFF: Unpacking Cryptocurrency: Ben Simpson, CEO of Collective Shift, on crypto investing, blockchain trends, and how small businesses use Bitcoin as digital gold, navigate DeFi, and tap tokenization for smarter finances. (Episode 640 - Ben Simpson)
03/06/2025
QFF: Unpacking Cryptocurrency: Ben Simpson, CEO of Collective Shift, on crypto investing, blockchain trends, and how small businesses use Bitcoin as digital gold, navigate DeFi, and tap tokenization for smarter finances. (Episode 640 - Ben Simpson)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Michael Denehey interviews , CEO of , who shares his expertise in crypto investing and blockchain technology. He explains how small businesses can leverage Bitcoin as digital gold to hedge against inflation. Ben discusses the risks of crypto scams and emphasizes the importance of education in navigating the space. He introduces decentralized finance as a tool for loans without banks and highlights future trends like tokenization of real assets. Tune in for actionable insights into harnessing cryptocurrency's potential for business growth. Ben can be reached via his , , or through his . Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Bitcoin for Wealth Preservation: Use Bitcoin as digital gold to hedge against inflation and currency devaluation, safeguarding your financial assets. Decentralized Finance (DeFi): Leverage DeFi platforms to access loans, earn interest on crypto holdings, and reduce reliance on traditional banks. Tokenization Opportunities: Tokenize real assets like property or goods to simplify ownership, reduce paperwork, and streamline transactions. Crypto Education is Essential: Stay informed to navigate the volatile crypto market and avoid scams by utilizing trusted research platforms like Collective Shift. Long-Term Crypto Potential: View Bitcoin as a high-performing long-term investment, with significant growth potential over time. Blockchain Integration: Explore blockchain applications, including tokenization and decentralized systems, to drive innovation and efficiency in your business. One Action Small Business Owners Can Take: According to Ben Simpson, small business owners should allocate a small portion of their cash reserves to Bitcoin as a long-term investment. This strategy helps hedge against inflation and currency devaluation while unlocking the potential of digital gold. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the . It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Bitcoin is the digital gold of our era, offering a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation — Ben Simpson Decentralized finance is revolutionizing access to loans, eliminating the need for traditional banks — Ben Simpson Investing in Bitcoin offers an unparalleled opportunity with infinite upside and limited downside — Ben Simpson
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Bianca Best on Growing the Bespoke Gift Company to $2M Turnover, Scaling to 5 Team Members, and Launching 'The Burnout Business' to Empower Entrepreneurs with Strategies for Achieving Big Impact Without Burnout. (Episode 639 - Bianca Best)
03/04/2025
Bianca Best on Growing the Bespoke Gift Company to $2M Turnover, Scaling to 5 Team Members, and Launching 'The Burnout Business' to Empower Entrepreneurs with Strategies for Achieving Big Impact Without Burnout. (Episode 639 - Bianca Best)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , founder of and former owner of The Bespoke Gift Company. Bianca shares her journey of scaling her first business to a $2M turnover with a small team, balancing family life, and transitioning into corporate consultancy. She discusses strategies to prevent burnout, insights from her new book "Big Impact Without Burnout," and her plans to help entrepreneurs achieve sustainable success. Learn how Bianca combines passion, resilience, and innovation to create lasting impact. A must-listen for business owners seeking growth with balance! Other Resources: Bianca Best's book is now available for pre-sale! Order now to receive your copy when it launches on March 11, 2025, plus an exclusive bundle of goodies delivered straight to your inbox immediately. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Bianca Best, one of the hardest things in growing a small business is managing the "sheer abundance" of options and deciding which direction to prioritize. She emphasizes the importance of focus and avoiding the distraction of pursuing too many opportunities, which can dilute the core proposition and hinder growth. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Bianca Best's favorite business book is The First 90 Days by Michael Watkins. She found it particularly helpful in navigating the corporate world and understanding how to play the "corporate game." Another book she mentioned is The Politics of Promotion by Bonnie Marcus, which she found useful for her professional development in the corporate realm. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Bianca Best recommends Audible for deep dives into subjects that align with professional development and personal interests. While she prefers books for in-depth learning, she emphasizes the importance of selecting resources that are clearly relevant and goal-focused. Additionally, she mentioned Opus AI, a tool for generating impactful marketing content like reels, which can be valuable for growing a small business. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Bianca Best recommends Opus AI, a tool that automates the creation of engaging video clips and reels from longer content. This resource is particularly useful for businesses looking to enhance their marketing and reach broader audiences efficiently. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Bianca Best's advice to her day-one self is to "follow your heart and stay in integrity." She emphasizes the importance of aligning actions with personal values, as being out of alignment can hinder fulfillment and effectiveness. Staying true to her passions and maintaining integrity are key principles she believes lead to both personal and professional success. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Follow your heart and stay in integrity to create meaningful success — Bianca Best True success is going to bed with peace, knowing you made a positive impact — Bianca Best Never shy away from your triggers—lean in, resolve, and grow stronger — Bianca Best
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John St. Pierre of Rhombus Group on Scaling 6 Businesses to $120M, Leading 150 Team Members, Overcoming Failures in Sports Management, and Embracing Patient Ambition to Build Success in the Competitive Construction Industry. (Episode 638 - John St.Pierre)
03/02/2025
John St. Pierre of Rhombus Group on Scaling 6 Businesses to $120M, Leading 150 Team Members, Overcoming Failures in Sports Management, and Embracing Patient Ambition to Build Success in the Competitive Construction Industry. (Episode 638 - John St.Pierre)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , Chairperson of , a holding company overseeing six businesses with 150 team members and $120M in revenue. John shares insights on scaling sustainably, learning from failures in sports management, and the importance of patient ambition. He discusses building a culture of intrapreneurship, managing cash flow, and aligning business growth with personal life goals. Tune in for actionable advice on overcoming challenges and creating a resilient business. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to John St. Pierre, the hardest thing in growing a small business is managing cash flow. He emphasizes that cash flow challenges persist at every stage of business growth, regardless of size, and developing strong cash management habits is critical for success. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? John St. Pierre’s favorite business book that has helped him the most is "Scaling Up" by Verne Harnish. He values its insights on strategic growth and implementing systems for scaling businesses effectively. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? John St. Pierre recommends the "All-In Podcast" as a thought-provoking resource. While not strictly professional development, it features valuable insights from venture capitalists and business leaders. He also highlights the importance of leveraging podcasts and online tools to sharpen business acumen. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? John St. Pierre recommends Alan Miltz's Cash Flow Story as a crucial tool for growing a small business. It helps entrepreneurs understand and optimize cash flow, enabling better financial decisions and sustainable growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? John St. Pierre would advise himself on day one of starting out to "have patient ambition". He emphasizes growing the business at a sustainable pace and not rushing for immediate success, as building a solid foundation takes time and careful planning. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Sustainable growth comes from mastering patient ambition, not chasing instant results. – John St. Pierre True leadership is creating opportunities for others to grow beyond your expectations. – John St. Pierre A business without a clear life plan is destined to run you, not the other way around – John St. Pierre
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QFF: Transforming Small Businesses with George Elkhair: 30+ Years of Success, 10 Turnarounds, and Social Impact. Learn Key Lessons on Governance, Employee Respect, Customer Intimacy, and Strategies for Small Business Growth. (Episode 637 - George Elkhair)
02/27/2025
QFF: Transforming Small Businesses with George Elkhair: 30+ Years of Success, 10 Turnarounds, and Social Impact. Learn Key Lessons on Governance, Employee Respect, Customer Intimacy, and Strategies for Small Business Growth. (Episode 637 - George Elkhair)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Amanda Jones interviews , a seasoned entrepreneur with 30+ years of experience and 10 successful business turnarounds. George shares insights on fostering employee respect, driving social impact, and mastering governance. He highlights the importance of customer intimacy and aligning vision with strategy for sustainable growth. With a proven track record in transforming struggling businesses, George's expertise offers valuable lessons for small business owners. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about redefining success in business! Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Employee Respect Drives Culture: Prioritize valuing employees and fostering a culture of respect and development to enhance productivity and retention. Align Vision with Strategy: Success stems from ensuring your vision and strategy are in sync. Misalignment can derail growth and management efficiency. Embrace Governance: Effective governance isn’t just for large organizations—it provides structure and clarity that drives small business success. Know Your Customers Intimately: Building deep relationships with your customers helps you understand their needs and deliver tailored solutions. Seek External Expertise: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help, advice, or mentorship. Collaboration with experts can provide a competitive edge. Balance Social Impact and Business Growth: Giving back to the community and focusing on social impact can enhance your brand's reputation and long-term sustainability. One action small business owners can take: According to George Elkhair, one actionable step small business owners can take is to align their business values with daily operations. This ensures consistency, strengthens the company culture, and builds trust with both employees and customers. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the . It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Small businesses thrive when values guide every decision – George Elkhair A strong culture is the foundation of every successful business – George Elkhair Building trust with your customers starts with understanding their needs – George Elkhair
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Ral West’s Journey: From Flying 50,000 Alaskans Annually to Hawaii with Hawaiian Vacations to Building Real Estate Empires, Exiting at 8-Figure Revenue, and Teaching 6 Principles to Help Entrepreneurs Build Freedom & Success. (Episode 636 - Ral West)
02/25/2025
Ral West’s Journey: From Flying 50,000 Alaskans Annually to Hawaii with Hawaiian Vacations to Building Real Estate Empires, Exiting at 8-Figure Revenue, and Teaching 6 Principles to Help Entrepreneurs Build Freedom & Success. (Episode 636 - Ral West)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , founder of , shares his journey of entrepreneurial success. From scaling Hawaiian Vacations to 8-figure revenue and exiting to Alaska Airlines, Ral built an impressive career. He now empowers entrepreneurs with 6 principles to achieve freedom and sustainable growth. His insights on systems, culture, and leveraging automation are game-changers. Don’t miss this inspiring episode packed with resilience and lessons for business success. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. Other Resources: And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Ral West, the hardest thing in growing a small business is sticking with it — having the faith and stamina to persist through discouraging times. Staying committed and pushing forward despite challenges is essential for success. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Ral West's favorite business book is "The E-Myth" by Michael Gerber. She credits it with providing invaluable insights on creating systems and developing a sustainable business, emphasizing its impact on his entrepreneurial journey. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Ral West recommends a range of resources to help grow a small business, including Tony Robbins’ Business Mastery, which offers transformative insights into strategy and growth, and Amy Porterfield's Digital Course Academy, ideal for creating and marketing online courses. He also highlights the value of YouTube as a free resource for learning topics like marketing and automation, alongside entrepreneurial podcasts for professional development. These tools underscore Ral's belief in continuous learning and leveraging expert knowledge to drive success. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Ral West emphasizes the importance of systems as the most crucial tool for growing a small business. Whether through automation, apps, or processes, implementing effective systems ensures efficiency, scalability, and the ability to manage details without being overwhelmed. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Ral West advises his day-one self to start without fear of failure, embrace the journey, and be ready to pivot when necessary. He highlights the importance of learning continuously, not striving for perfection, and believing in yourself to navigate the unpredictable path of entrepreneurship. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Systems are the backbone of sustainable business growth – Ral West Empower your team with clear values and watch your business thrive – Ral West Success is built on resilience, adaptability, and the courage to pivot – Ral West
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Matthew Pollard: Empowering Introverts, Leading a Team of 12, Revolutionizing Professional Service Businesses with Rapid Growth Strategies, Securing Six-Figure Revenues, and Building a Profitable Business Model. (Episode 635 - Matthew Pollard)
02/23/2025
Matthew Pollard: Empowering Introverts, Leading a Team of 12, Revolutionizing Professional Service Businesses with Rapid Growth Strategies, Securing Six-Figure Revenues, and Building a Profitable Business Model. (Episode 635 - Matthew Pollard)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , founder of . Matthew shares how he empowers introverts to thrive in business, scales his team to 12 members, and transforms professional service businesses. Discover his proven rapid growth strategies, focus on passion-driven models, and approach to achieving six-figure revenues. Gain insights into building a profitable and sustainable business while embracing your unique strengths. Tune in for actionable tips to drive business success! Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Matthew Pollard, the hardest thing in growing a small business is standing still long enough to get the strategy right. He emphasizes the importance of resisting the urge to act on unvalidated ideas or self-importance, as proper strategy is key to sustainable growth. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Matthew Pollard's favorite business book is "The E-Myth Revisited" by Michael Gerber. He highlights how it taught him the importance of systematizing a business and focusing on what truly matters, rather than trying to do everything himself. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Matthew Pollard recommends the podcast "Smart Passive Income" by Pat Flynn as a valuable resource for growing a small business. He found it helpful for discovering strategies, tools, and insights to build an online business, though he advises being selective to avoid unnecessary expenses What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Matthew Pollard suggests project management software, such as Monday.com, as a valuable tool for growing a small business. He also emphasizes the importance of social media posting tools that automate and optimize content sharing, ensuring efficiency and a consistent online presence. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Matthew Pollard advises his day-one self to "stop taking yourself so seriously." He highlights the importance of focusing on having the best intentions for clients rather than striving for perfection or overthinking outcomes. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success comes from creating a business that aligns with your passion and values – Matthew Pollard Building a profitable business starts with putting purpose ahead of profit – Matthew Pollard Introverts thrive when they embrace their unique strengths and work with systems – Matthew Pollard
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QFF: Revolutionizing Small Business Hiring with Courtney Pomerenke of Employment Hero: How AI-Powered Smart Match and Wage Transparency Are Driving Success and Saving Time for Small Business Owners. (Episode 634 - Courtney Pomerenke)
02/20/2025
QFF: Revolutionizing Small Business Hiring with Courtney Pomerenke of Employment Hero: How AI-Powered Smart Match and Wage Transparency Are Driving Success and Saving Time for Small Business Owners. (Episode 634 - Courtney Pomerenke)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Michael Denehey interviews , Partnerships Manager at , sharing expert insights on transforming small business hiring processes. Learn how Employment Hero's AI-powered tools like Smart Match, wage transparency, and proactive recruitment strategies can save time, cut costs, and attract top talent. Courtney highlights real-world success stories and practical tips for building a stronger employer brand and retaining employees. Sign up before March 30, 2025, and get 3 months FREE on Employment Hero – your all-in-one solution for payroll, HR, and people management. To redeem, email and quote "GASB2025". . Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Streamlining Recruitment with AI: Employment Hero’s Smart Match tool uses AI to provide curated candidate lists in seconds, reducing hiring time by two weeks and saving up to 12 hours of administrative work per hire. Wage Transparency Benefits: Transparent salary practices attract aligned candidates, foster trust, and build a culture of fairness, helping small businesses stand out in competitive job markets. Proactive vs. Reactive Hiring: Building a recruitment funnel and creating talent pools ahead of time can prevent last-minute hiring stress and lead to better hiring decisions. Flexible Work and Career Development: Beyond salaries, employees value flexible working arrangements, career development, and a strong workplace culture. Small businesses can use these to attract and retain talent effectively. Data-Driven Decisions: Employment Hero offers salary benchmarking tools and reports based on real-time data from millions of employees, enabling businesses to set competitive and fair wages. Success in Real-World Applications: Employment Hero’s solutions have helped businesses, such as those in the NDIS sector, reduce hiring time, improve onboarding, and achieve higher retention rates, leading to better team performance. One action small business owners can take: According to Courtney Pomerenke one action small business owners can take is to embrace AI-powered recruitment tools like Employment Hero’s Smart Match. By leveraging AI, businesses can streamline the hiring process, save valuable time, and attract candidates who are the best fit for their roles and culture. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the . It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Proactive hiring is about building relationships, not just filling positions – Courtney Pomerenke A strong employer brand is your best tool for attracting top talent – Courtney Pomerenke Flexible work options and career growth are the new priorities for today’s workforce – Courtney Pomerenke
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From Red Bull to The Mentoring Effect: Alexandra Terrey on 20 Years of Building 4 Global Businesses, $100K Sales Weeks, 20% Growth, Leading a Team of 5, and Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Leadership Coaching. (Episode 633 - Alexandra Terrey)
02/18/2025
From Red Bull to The Mentoring Effect: Alexandra Terrey on 20 Years of Building 4 Global Businesses, $100K Sales Weeks, 20% Growth, Leading a Team of 5, and Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Leadership Coaching. (Episode 633 - Alexandra Terrey)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews , founder of , shares her 20-year entrepreneurial journey, growing four businesses across the globe. She discusses achieving 20% annual growth, and sometimes big shifts such as generating $100K weekly sales, and leading a team of 5. Alexandra reveals how mindset and emotional shifts and leadership strategies empower entrepreneurs to break through challenges and achieve success. Tune in for valuable insights on sustainable business growth and personal transformation. GROW where listeners get 35% discount for this program: Other Resources: Special offer for listeners 30% off from the “Unleash Your Authentic self and Create the Life You Want” program, now only $29 AUD with coupon “GROW” Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. . Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Alexandra Terrey, the hardest thing in growing a small business is developing patience. She emphasizes that the journey is filled with challenges, including personal growth, overcoming fears, and adapting to various stages of business evolution, all of which require resilience and persistence. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Alexandra Terrey's favorite business book is Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. She credits it with helping her view business from a different perspective. Additionally, she finds inspiration in The Surrender Experiment by Michael Singer for its insights on mindset and personal growth. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Alexandra Terrey recommends a variety of podcasts and online resources to help grow a small business. She highlights Brene Brown's leadership-focused podcasts, Michael Singer's content on personal growth, and Health Movement Lab for insights on neuroscience and performance. Additionally, she suggests exploring business-related podcasts tailored to your growth area, emphasizing the value of continuously learning from diverse perspectives. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Alexandra Terrey recommends meditation as a powerful tool for growing a small business. She emphasizes the importance of disconnecting from daily stresses, calming the mind, and accessing creativity through practices like mindfulness, breathwork, and meditation. These routines enhance decision-making, resilience, and overall performance, making them invaluable for personal and business growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? On day one of starting out in business, Alexandra Terrey advises focusing on personal growth and maintaining a sense of fun and passion for your work. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, addressing limiting beliefs early, and building a business you truly love. Keeping the initial excitement alive and prioritizing self-improvement can lay a strong foundation for long-term success. Book a 20-minute with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success begins with the courage to face your fears and grow beyond them — Alexandra Terrey Processes drive behavior; great systems create great cultures — Alexandra Terrey Leadership starts with self-awareness and the willingness to evolve — Alexandra Terrey
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