ScaleUp Radio

Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to apply to be a guest, just click here: https://bizsmarts.co.uk/scaleupradio/apply Kevin's New Book Is Now Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, Kevin Brent explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - https://www.esusgroup.co.uk/

Episode #514 - Turning Adversity into Innovation and Changing Lives One Sensory Product at a Time - with Andrew Western 09/10/2025

Episode #514 - Turning Adversity into Innovation and Changing Lives One Sensory Product at a Time - with Andrew Western Hi, I’m Granger Forson. You can always find me at or on LinkedIn. On this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I had the pleasure of speaking with Andy Western, founder of AJW Solutions and Sam Boards. Andy’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and remarkable innovation. From a five-million-pound management buyout falling through to starting AJW Solutions in 2007, he carved a niche in the defence and aerospace industry. Supplying the MOD within months of launching, Andy built a trusted reputation in engineering, project management, and ground support equipment. But Andy’s real pivot came when life introduced him to a new challenge — and opportunity. Inspired by the needs of autistic teenagers, he founded Sam Boards, creating sensory activity and motor skill products that were both discreet and effective. What started as 3D-printed prototypes quickly gained traction in schools, hospitals, dementia care homes, and even police custody suites, helping people manage anxiety, neurodiverse challenges, and recovery. Today, Sam Boards products are used by 14 UK police forces, the NHS, and organisations as far away as Australia and Ukraine. Andy’s journey shows how adversity — from divorce to COVID setbacks — can be turned into purpose-driven innovation with global impact. If you’re curious about creating products that solve real problems, growing businesses with integrity, and leaving a legacy of positive change, this episode will inspire and challenge you in equal measure. To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. So, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of resilience, innovation, and life-changing impact with Andy Western. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin & Granger here: Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff. Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Andrew can be found here: Slide Pack can be found by emailing Resources: The Caring View Podcast - WhatsApp - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/38070415

Episode #513 - ScaleUp Club - Sales In, Sales Out – How to Build Funnels That Work - Mark Day 09/08/2025

Episode #513 - ScaleUp Club - Sales In, Sales Out – How to Build Funnels That Work - Mark Day In this ScaleUp VIP Club session, we focused on the crucial topic of building high-performing sales funnels – and cutting through the noise to make your marketing really work. We kicked off with our new monthly segment, the AI Pulse, delivered by Paul Rhodes. Paul shared actionable insights on building an “AI Brain” – using custom GPTs to extract knowledge from the founder’s head, reduce team dependency, and supercharge productivity. A standout quote: "AI is not about replacing humans, it's about humans with AI versus humans without." Paul highlighted how combining good documentation with a powerful AI assistant allows your team to make better, faster decisions – without relying on you for everything. Then we dived into the main theme – Sales In, Sales Out – How to Build Funnels That Work, with guest speaker Mark Day, founder of Battle Group Training. Mark drew on his military and fitness industry background to give a practical, boots-on-the-ground view of what it takes to create a funnel that actually converts. He broke down the funnel into actionable checkpoints: Awareness (be visible where your customers already are) Consideration (build trust with helpful content) Conversion (make buying effortless) Loyalty (keep them coming back) Mark’s perspective was grounded and real – his business scaled through COVID, he rebranded based on changing search trends, and he’s used data to cut marketing waste and fix retention issues. His approach to marketing funnels is laser-focused on solving real problems and avoiding the fluff. Standout Message: “Keep it simple, show up, be useful – and remember: a funnel is just a journey to build trust, not a sales trick.” Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Mark and Paul. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin & Granger here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Mark can be found here: /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/38056765

Episode #512 - ScaleUp Club - Leading with Specialism, Integrity and Authenticity in Recruitment - with Kelly Cartwright 09/03/2025

Episode #512 - ScaleUp Club - Leading with Specialism, Integrity and Authenticity in Recruitment - with Kelly Cartwright This episode of ScaleUp Radio brings a fresh twist – a live Q&A from one of our ScaleUp Club sessions, featuring returning guest Kelly Cartwright, founder of Core Recruiter Ltd. Kelly joined us to share honest, down-to-earth insights on building a values-driven, specialist recruitment agency in the highly competitive construction sector. Kelly first appeared on ScaleUp Radio to share her business journey – and this time, she’s back to dive deeper into the practical realities of scaling, culture-fit hiring, navigating economic cycles, and maintaining a human touch in an often impersonal industry. 🔍 What We Cover: Why Kelly chose to keep Core Recruiter small, focused, and high-quality – and how that’s become her competitive advantage. The real value of personal relationships in recruitment, especially when reputation is everything. How she hires for cultural fit and loyalty over flashy CVs or instant revenue promises. Staying resilient during sector volatility – from the pandemic to market dips – with smart agility and a lean mindset. Her mentorship work with young professionals and why it’s vital for emerging talent to feel supported. Real talk on DEI in the construction industry – progress, challenges, and what still needs to change. Why understanding compliance and industry know-how gives her team a critical edge. The evolving importance of knowing your numbers – not just turnover, but profit and sustainability. And yes, we hear about her favourite roles to fill – forklift drivers and bricklayers, and why they matter! Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Kelly. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin & Granger here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Kelly can be found here: /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37998820

Episode #511 - Democratising Data Science for Agencies – with Matias Carpio 09/01/2025

Episode #511 - Democratising Data Science for Agencies – with Matias Carpio In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Matias Carpio, co-founder of Onlyscience – a soon-to-launch SaaS platform on a mission to make advanced marketing analytics accessible to agencies of all sizes. Onlyscience is building an AI-powered analytics tool that enables marketing agencies to quantify and optimise campaign performance – all without needing a technical background. The platform, which includes a storytelling layer for actionable insights, aims to help agencies move beyond spreadsheets and guesswork with a simplified yet powerful solution. Though the business is currently pre-revenue, the team has spent the last 18 months developing the product and recently secured investment – including a highly competitive Innovate UK grant – as they prepare for launch in August 2025. Kevin and Matias dive into the journey so far, discussing the challenges of being a solo founder, the nuances of building and communicating a clear value proposition, and why self-care and continual learning are essential parts of startup life. 🧠 Key Highlights: Product Vision: A SaaS platform automating marketing analytics and forecasting, tailored for small to medium agencies lacking in-house data expertise. Startup Journey: Bootstrapped for the first year, now backed by investment and gearing up for launch. Go-to-Market: Three-tier pricing model, initial UK focus with eyes on US/EU expansion, and a strong waitlist strategy. Leadership Insights: Matias shares the emotional realities of entrepreneurship, from managing expectations to the importance of celebrating small wins. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Matias. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Matias can be found here: Resources: Start With Why by Simon Sinek - The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz - The Art of Breakthrough by Stephen Staten - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37998615

Episode #510 - From Kitchen Experiments to Award-Winning Curry Kits - with Aliza Ratnayaka 08/27/2025

Episode #510 - From Kitchen Experiments to Award-Winning Curry Kits - with Aliza Ratnayaka In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, host Kevin Brent sits down with Aliza Ratnayaka, co-founder of Little Big Flavour Kits — a business that grew from humble beginnings during the pandemic into a multi-award-winning food brand bringing authentic Sri Lankan curry kits to UK kitchens. Aliza shares how she transformed packaging spices for friends into a niche, sustainable product sourced directly from Sri Lankan farmers, including a long-standing partnership with SDS Spice, a family-run cinnamon plantation. Along the way, she’s tackled the challenges of educating customers on Sri Lankan cuisine, navigating the jump from direct sales to wholesaling, and balancing rapid growth with quality and ethics. We explore: The Business Journey – how a lockdown side project became an award-winning brand sold in farm shops and beyond. Scaling Up Challenges – from cash flow pressures to shifting sales channels, and Aliza’s thoughts on the ScaleUp Challenges Report. Quickfire Questions – where Aliza shares insights, tips, and a few personal favourites. Aliza’s story is packed with lessons for food entrepreneurs and small business owners alike — from embracing networking and personal growth to creatively marketing through supper clubs and dinner kit experiences. The one key thing: Building a business that’s both commercially viable and ethically sustainable takes patience, creativity, and a deep belief in your product. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Aliza. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Aliza can be found here: Resources: Simon Sinek - The Optimism Podcast - Diary of a CEO podcast - Trevor Noah podcast - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37877720

Episode #509 - Pixels with Purpose: Building a Purpose-Driven Creative Collective - with Wes Henstock 08/25/2025

Episode #509 - Pixels with Purpose: Building a Purpose-Driven Creative Collective - with Wes Henstock In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Wes Henstock, founder of Confid3ntial – a purpose-led design and brand strategy agency with a global reach and a truly distinctive structure. Launched in 2006 after an unexpected layoff, Confid3ntial began as a white-label service provider for creative agencies. It has since evolved into a remote-first collective of creatives, united by the mission of delivering "pixels with purpose" – where branding is driven by meaning, not just aesthetics. In their conversation, Wes shares his views on how purpose should infuse every part of a business – from culture and team communication to client strategy and design. He also highlights the power of relationship-building, revealing that most of Confid3ntial's clients come from long-standing personal networks rather than traditional marketing. This episode is structured into three key parts: The Business Journey – Wes walks us through Confid3ntial’s origins, remote operating model, and evolution from a behind-the-scenes support team to a values-driven agency. Scaling Challenges – From staying lean and global to debating the need for physical offices, Wes shares what it means to grow a business around trust, flexibility, and authenticity. Quickfire Round – Get a glimpse into Wes’s personal inspirations, mentors like Marty Neumeier, and his philosophy of learning and giving back. 🔑 The one key thing from this episode? Purpose isn't a brand accessory – it’s the foundation of everything. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Wes. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin & Granger here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Wes can be found here: Resources: Playing To Win by Roger L Martin - Brand Gap by Marty Neumeier - Zag by Marty Neumeier - The Power of Broke by Daymond John - Be More Pirate by Sam Conniff Allende - WhatsApp - Monday - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37874765

Episode #508 - ScaleUp Club - Turning Customer Service into a Strategic Growth Lever - with Logan Naidu 08/20/2025

Episode #508 - ScaleUp Club - Turning Customer Service into a Strategic Growth Lever - with Logan Naidu This month’s special edition of ScaleUp Radio is a deep dive into what it really means to make customer service a powerful driver of business growth. Recorded live at our monthly ScaleUp Club session, we welcome back Logan Naidu, founder of Kernel Groups and a previous guest on the podcast, for an exclusive Q&A. Logan shares powerful insights from his journey scaling a business that’s not just growing in numbers but creating real impact in the market — particularly through customer service excellence. His firm, Kernel Groups, operates with over 280 employees across the globe and is reshaping the recruitment industry with a strong emphasis on culture and client loyalty. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Why Logan believes in creating "fans, not customers" — and how that mindset added £10 million to their valuation. How to maintain exceptional service standards and culture as you scale, especially across different office sizes and locations. The importance of "pace without compromise" when growing your team and footprint. Why listening — really listening — to clients and candidates is now a core differentiator. How to attract top talent when you're not yet a household name, and why storytelling and shared vision are just as important as salaries. How Kernel Groups develops future leaders through structured learning and a long-term mindset. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Logan. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin & Granger here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Logan can be found here: /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37814480

Episode #507 - From a £10 Startup to Strategic Growth: The Orange Notebook Journey - with Corina Calugaru and Alina Stancu 08/18/2025

Episode #507 - From a £10 Startup to Strategic Growth: The Orange Notebook Journey - with Corina Calugaru and Alina Stancu In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Corina Calugaru and Alina Stancu, the dynamic duo behind The Orange Notebook – a business that started during the pandemic with just £10 in the bank and a whole lot of passion. From a modest marketing agency, it has evolved into a strategy-led consultancy offering business coaching, outsourced marketing, and rebranding services. We delve into how they turned an idea sketched in an orange notebook into a thriving business, and the insights they’ve gained helping other entrepreneurs scale. The conversation is structured in three parts: Their business journey, including the pivotal shift from marketing to executive coaching and strategy The recurring challenges their clients face in scaling – especially around leadership transitions, team alignment, and clarity of vision Some quickfire insights and reflections, from time management hacks to overcoming self-doubt and staying aligned as co-founders The One Key Thing: To scale successfully, founders must evolve from doing everything themselves to leading with clarity, culture, and confidence – and that often means redefining their own identity. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Corina and Alina. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Corina & Alina can be found here: Resources: Traction: Get A Grip On Your Business by Gino Wickman - The E-Myth Revisted by Michael Gerber - Super Communicators by Charles Duhigg - Riverside - Opus Clip - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37814100

Episode #506 - Evolving From Handmade Gifts To A Successful Wellness & Lifestyle Brand - with Edith Peterhegyi 08/13/2025

Episode #506 - Evolving From Handmade Gifts To A Successful Wellness & Lifestyle Brand - with Edith Peterhegyi On this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Edith Peterhegyi, the creative force behind Eden Collection, a rapidly growing wellness and lifestyle brand that began as a lockdown hobby and is now a thriving business offering beautifully crafted, all-natural products. From Buzz Bombs to shower mists, facial oils, and home fragrances, Eden Collection has built a loyal customer base through a combination of aesthetic excellence, product quality, and uplifting hidden messages. But this isn’t just a story of pretty packaging—Edith shares the realities of scaling a product-based business, including how she tackled challenges such as cash flow, marketing, and evolving the brand for wholesale success. The conversation is structured in three parts: The Business Journey – Edith discusses how Eden Collection evolved from handmade gifts into a fully-fledged business with multiple sales channels including direct-to-consumer, wholesale, and markets. Scaling Challenges – From learning the importance of packaging to shifting to upfront wholesale payments, Edith opens up about the lessons learned and her thoughts on the wider ScaleUp Challenges Report. Quickfire Questions – Edith shares the books, habits, and advice that inspire her entrepreneurial journey. The one key thing: If you’re looking to grow a product-based business, prioritising packaging and understanding your cash flow early on can be game-changing. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Edith. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Edith can be found here: https://www.instagram.com/theedencollections/ Resources: Shopify - Canva - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37718095

Episode #505 - Disrupting Home Services: How WarmZilla Is Scaling with Tech, Branding, and Bold Ambition - with Matthew Powell 08/11/2025

Episode #505 - Disrupting Home Services: How WarmZilla Is Scaling with Tech, Branding, and Bold Ambition - with Matthew Powell In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent speaks with Matthew Powell, the founder of WarmZilla – a fast-growing disruptor in the UK home services market. From boilers to EV chargers and air conditioning, WarmZilla has built a 24/7 online platform that delivers next-day installations across the nation. Over just two and a half years, Matthew scaled the business to multi-million pound revenues, all without external funding - and they are now in their 7th year. But now, with an eye on £50 million turnover within five years, he’s exploring new frontiers – from international expansion to possibly bringing in a CEO to help take the business to the next level. This episode is packed with valuable insights across three key sections: The Business Model & Scaleup Journey: Discover how WarmZilla connects customers to a 700+ subcontractor network via a proprietary tech platform, and how its branding (featuring “Derek” the mascot) and TV campaigns have become household recognisable. Scaling Challenges & Insights: Matthew shares candidly about the growing pains – from balancing customer and subcontractor needs to cash flow hurdles in a seasonal market – and how innovation and strategic hiring are helping him manage scale. Quickfire Round: A punchy end to the episode with insights into Matthew’s mindset, leadership style, and lessons learned. The one key thing to listen out for? How branding and customer experience – when done right – can truly transform an industry. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Matthew. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Matthew can be found here: Resources: YouTube - Google Sheets - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37716330

Episode #504 - Finding A Competitive Advantage In An AI World - with Sameer Rahman 08/06/2025

Episode #504 - Finding A Competitive Advantage In An AI World - with Sameer Rahman In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Sameer Rahman, the CEO of Datamonet – a consultancy helping organisations build data and AI strategies that drive commercial value. With a background in data science and years of experience across sectors, Sameer shares his insights into how small and medium businesses can get smarter with data without needing to become tech giants. Sameer founded Datamonet to tackle a problem he saw time and again – decision-makers who were data-rich but insight-poor. Through tailored consulting, from “power hours” to deep-dive strategy projects, Sameer helps businesses turn data into a growth engine. Together, they explore: Why data literacy in boardrooms is often the biggest barrier to success How small businesses can use open-source and purchased data to craft powerful strategies The role of AI as an enabler, not a silver bullet – and why human insight still matters Why so many digital transformation projects fail, and what you can do to avoid the same fate Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Sameer. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Sameer can be found here: Resources: Don’t Make Me Think by Steve Krug - Who Moved My Cheese? by Dr Spencer Johnson - Driven By Data podcast - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37620105

Episode #503 - Why Knowing Your Ideal Customer Changes Everything for Growth - with David Allen 08/04/2025

Episode #503 - Why Knowing Your Ideal Customer Changes Everything for Growth - with David Allen Hi, I’m Granger Forson, business coach at . You can also find me on LinkedIn. In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Dave Allen, Managing Director of Square One Network, a B2B telecoms provider based in Bristol. Dave’s journey is a great example of leadership growth in action. Having fallen into the telecoms world in the late 90s, Dave has built his career around the belief that communication is at the heart of all good business. Since becoming MD of Square One Network, he’s steered the company through significant cultural shifts, focusing on building a local-first, people-centred telecoms business. In this conversation, Dave shares how taking the time to properly define their ideal customer profile transformed their marketing and growth strategy. He speaks openly about the importance of getting the right people into the business, often hiring on personality first and skills second. His philosophy is simple: people buy from people. We also dive into the financial disciplines Dave adopted after inheriting a company that had experienced several rounds of private equity investment. His lessons on forecasting, cash flow management, and building sustainable growth are invaluable for any business leader. Finally, you’ll hear Dave’s vision for growing Square One Network organically, without losing the personal service that’s become its trademark. If you want inspiration for building a business that balances heart and performance, this episode is for you. To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. S o, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of communication, clarity and culture with Dave. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff. You can get in touch with Granger here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - David can be found here: Resources: The Go To Market Playbook by Paul Watson - Cookie Jar Golf podcast - Instagram - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37618790

Episode #502 - 500 Episodes - Celebrating the Journey 07/30/2025

Episode #502 - 500 Episodes - Celebrating the Journey In this episode Kevin Brent looks back on 500 episodes of ScaleUp Radio, taking a moment to reflect on the invaluable lessons, insights, and stories gathered from hundreds of conversations with ambitious entrepreneurs and business leaders. With its mission rooted in making the scale-up journey easier by learning from others' experiences, ScaleUp Radio has consistently highlighted what it truly takes to build a valuable and scalable business. 💡 Core Takeaways from 500 Episodes Scaling vs. Growth: Real scale comes from optimising systems—not just adding more resources. Greg Baldwin's use of “swim lane” processes at Highways Traffic Management is a textbook example. Cash is King: Profitability trumps vanity metrics. From Russell Walters’ budgeting strategies to Mark Wright’s advice on financial planning, the message is clear: don’t operate too lean. People & Culture Matter: From Amy Marshall’s careful hiring to Serge Santos’s “no dickhead policy,” putting people first drives performance. Mentorship & Accountability: Leaders thrive when they learn from others and hold themselves accountable—through boards, coaches, or mentors. Customer-Centricity: Exceptional service leads to long-term loyalty. ALM Fitness and RB Walters Estate Agents have both built their reputations on this principle. Resilience & Adaptability: Pivoting during crises like COVID-19 has been a hallmark of many guests’ success stories. Vision Beyond Profit: Entrepreneurs like Himmat Rai built lasting value through long-term thinking—such as investing in infrastructure and developing scalable software. 🌟 Guest Highlights Serge Santos used acquisition as a stepping stone to launch a scalable business, emphasising discipline and operational excellence. Amy Marshall transitioned her business model to subscriptions and expanded online during the pandemic. Russell Walters redefined estate agency service standards, building deep trust and brand reputation. Greg Baldwin enhanced structure and social value in a traditionally hands-on industry. Himmat Rai innovated within health and safety consultancy by creating proprietary tech and structuring a scalable associate model. Mark Wright encouraged big thinking, investment in sales and marketing, and being known as an expert in your field. 🔭 Looking Ahead ScaleUp Radio’s guests are not standing still. Future ambitions include: Continued growth with better balance (e.g., four-day workweeks). Product innovation and hybrid service models. A pursuit of professional pride and enjoyment alongside business success. 💬 Standout Quote “You have to build a brand, not just a business.” – Mark Wright 🎯 The One Key Thing... The one key thing from 500 episodes? Sustainable scale is built on systems, people, and vision—backed by resilience and a long-term mindset. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin & Granger here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37574900

Episode #501 - Revolutionising Pet Care With the Dental Wand - with Victor Carpio 07/28/2025

Episode #501 - Revolutionising Pet Care With the Dental Wand - with Victor Carpio In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent sits down with Victor Carpio, the innovative founder of Inventor Smart Care, to discuss how a passion for solving a common pet health problem led to the creation of a world-first product: the Dental Wand – a toothbrush designed specifically to let cats control their own dental care. Victor shares the journey of launching a startup in a niche but high-potential market, including the challenges of developing a product for animals, bootstrapping through multiple prototypes, and preparing for national TV exposure on Dragons' Den. He also dives into the mindset shifts required for scaling – from selling directly to consumers to forging B2B partnerships and managing growing logistics demands. This episode is a treasure trove for product inventors, early-stage entrepreneurs, and anyone fascinated by the mechanics of turning a big idea into a real-world solution. Highlights From This Episode: Inventing With Purpose: Why Victor focused on solving a real health issue affecting 85% of UK cats, and why understanding your “why” is more important than just having a patent. From Cat Behaviour to Product Design: The surprisingly complex R&D behind the Dental Wand and how AI and 3D printing could help future inventors save time and money. Scaling Smartly: Transitioning from D2C to B2B, the growing pains of supply chain management, and the critical importance of not being reliant on a single supplier. The Dragons’ Den Effect: What happened when Victor pitched to the Dragons, and why the real win wasn’t the investment offer, but the brand exposure. Customer Insights: How deep psychographic understanding and a sophisticated email nurturing system helped Victor acquire customers for less than £5. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Victor. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Victor can be found here: Resources: Pet Industry Federation - Start with Why by Simon Sinek - Atomic Habits by James Clear - Headway app - Mailchimp - HubSpot - Gather - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37518105

Episode #500 - Sustainability Isn’t a Side Hustle, It’s the Future of Businesses making a Local Impacts - with Emma Burlow 07/23/2025

Episode #500 - Sustainability Isn’t a Side Hustle, It’s the Future of Businesses making a Local Impacts - with Emma Burlow Hi, I’m Granger Forson – find me at or connect with me on LinkedIn. On this edition of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Emma Burlow, founder of Lighthouse Sustainability and a leading voice in the world of circular economy and sustainable business. Emma’s journey spans over 25 years in sustainability – and she’s not just talking the talk. From her early days in waste management to becoming head of circular economy at Resource Futures and founding her own business, she’s been on the front line helping organisations make a genuine, lasting impact. In our conversation, Emma shares how Lighthouse Sustainability helps businesses scale by embedding sustainability in ways that are practical, measurable, and commercially viable. She challenges the myth that being ethical is expensive, showing instead how sustainability is a driver of innovation, customer loyalty, and investor confidence. We dive into her #BeTheDifference campaign, her experience advising start-ups and multinationals alike, and the shift in mindset required to build a business that’s not just successful, but significant. With storytelling and clear frameworks, Emma shows business leaders how to take action that counts – and how to communicate it with credibility. If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with purpose, balance commercial goals with climate responsibilities, or bring your team on board with sustainable growth, this episode is packed with insights and practical wisdom. To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. So, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of impact, purpose and leadership with Emma Burlow. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Granger here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Emma can be found here: 50% off course for ScaleUp Radio listeners using the code SUR50 - Resources: Work Like A Woman by Mary Portas - Outrage & Optimism podcast - Straight Talking Sustainability podcast - Frustrated & Exhausted podcast - Starling Banking app - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37440555

Episode #499 - A Mission to Reinvent Fleet Security Through Camaraderie and Code - with Kevin Pope 07/21/2025

Episode #499 - A Mission to Reinvent Fleet Security Through Camaraderie and Code - with Kevin Pope Hi, I’m Granger Forson – find me at or connect with me on LinkedIn. In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Kevin Pope, the dynamic Managing Director of Protrack Solutions and Biostart Security. Kevin’s story begins with a military mindset and a knack for spotting opportunity. After leaving the army, he entered the world of telematics and soon saw a gap he just had to fill. That leap of faith led to Protrack – a vehicle and fleet tracking business that’s now an innovation leader in compliance apps and software integration for businesses across the UK. What stands out in Kevin’s journey is his relentless problem-solving spirit. From creating barcode-based vehicle safety checks to pioneering job scheduling and compliance management apps, his company helps clients save time, money and stress. Their standout system, OneCore Software (OCS), brings simplicity and centralisation to what’s often a fragmented operational nightmare. But Kevin didn’t stop there. Enter Biostart – a biometric vehicle ignition and security system that stops theft before it even happens. This bold move, supported by over £1 million in smart funding, is set to disrupt the fleet management industry with its Fathom-approved, patent-protected innovation. Through it all, Kevin has stayed true to his values: loyalty, camaraderie, and looking after his people. Whether it's unlimited holidays, flexible hours, or just asking, “What am I doing wrong?”, his leadership is as people-focused as it is pioneering. To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. So, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of innovation, resilience and camaraderie with Kevin Pope. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Granger here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Kevin can be found here: Resources: Bravo Two Zero by Andy McNabb - Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink - Waze app - What3Words - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37426290

Episode #498 - Building Meaningful Business Communities Online – with James West 07/16/2025

Episode #498 - Building Meaningful Business Communities Online – with James West In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, we dive into the world of business networking with James West, the co-founder of Onle Networking – a platform that’s reimagining how small businesses connect, collaborate and grow through a fully online model. Founded on the belief that great business relationships are built on authenticity and community rather than pressure and rules, Onle has grown impressively to 360 members across 25 UK groups, with recent expansion into Ireland and the US. Unlike traditional models, Onle operates entirely online and uses a flexible monthly subscription model designed to foster genuine connections without the rigidity often associated with networking groups. James shares how his journey from IT journalist to business owner and networker led to the creation of Onle alongside his wife – whom he met at a networking event! His insights reveal the importance of culture, trust and systems in scaling a relationship-driven business. In this episode, we explore: How Onle’s online-only structure and culture-first philosophy distinguish it from conventional networking platforms The practical and mindset challenges of scaling, including maintaining intimacy across a growing number of groups James’s approach to franchising via “pod owners”, and the importance of systems and community tools like Heartbeat The broader market opportunity, with over 5.5 million UK small businesses in Onle’s target range Why online networking can offer a more inclusive space for people with caring responsibilities or introverted personalities We also delve into James’s personal story, including the mental health benefits he sees in meaningful networking and his belief that professional connections can be life-changing. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from James. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - James can be found here: Resources: Lost Connections by Johann Hari - Stolen Focus by Johann Hari - Adventures In Networking podcast - Heartbeat app - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37348975

Episode #497 - Authenticity & Real Stories Are The Superpower Of The Small Business - with Guy Hayward 07/14/2025

Episode #497 - Authenticity & Real Stories Are The Superpower Of The Small Business - with Guy Hayward In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, we're joined by Guy Hayward, founder of Local Heroes Marketing – a business born from a mission to help independent companies compete against much larger rivals. With over 30 years of experience in global advertising for brands like Nike, Adidas, Microsoft, and Coca-Cola, Guy brings a wealth of insight into how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can level the playing field through smarter, more authentic marketing. Local Heroes Marketing, launched just over a year ago, is all about enabling SMEs to “punch above their weight.” In our conversation, Guy outlines how storytelling, authenticity, and well-leveraged digital tools can empower smaller businesses to reach and resonate with their audience more effectively than ever before. Key Themes Covered: The power of authenticity and founder-led storytelling in marketing Why PR and influencer marketing can be cost-effective growth levers for SMEs How AI can enhance marketing processes—but only with careful human direction The importance of breaking big goals into manageable actions and tracking progress One standout message from this episode? "Small businesses have something corporates often lack—authenticity and real stories. That’s their superpower." Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Guy. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Guy can be found here: Resources: 100 Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez - Xero - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/37347770

Episode #496 - Putting People First in HR - with Claire Loftus 07/09/2025

Episode #496 - Putting People First in HR - with Claire Loftus In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Claire Loftus, the dynamic founder of Evolve, a people-first HR consultancy operating across Northern Ireland, Great Britain, and the Republic of Ireland. Claire shares her journey from working in HR and navigating personal health challenges to founding Evolve in 2017. With a team of nine working remotely, Evolve offers flexible, pragmatic HR support tailored to a diverse range of clients – from startups to large corporates – across multiple jurisdictions. 🔍 Episode Highlights: The Evolve Ethos: A refreshingly human approach to HR that blends practical solutions with strong relationship-building. Unique Model: Evolve offers accessible, flexible retainers starting from just £100/month, as well as ad-hoc support and investigations. Entrepreneurial Roots: Claire draws inspiration from a family of entrepreneurs and shares how pregnancy just six months in and the COVID-19 pandemic shaped the business’s early growth. Facing HR Head-On: From managing employee disputes to leveraging personality profiling like DISC, Claire gives honest insight into common HR pitfalls – and how to avoid them. Growth & Self-Awareness: A recent ADHD diagnosis has shifted Claire’s perspective on leadership, leading to greater self-awareness and a stronger emphasis on autonomy for her team. Looking Ahead: Evolve is eyeing growth to a 20-person team, preparing for economic shifts, embracing AI cautiously, and exploring a five-year exit plan. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Claire. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Claire can be found here: Resources: Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed - Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill - Breathe - Remarkable - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36936065

Episode #495 - The Startup That Refused to Follow the Rules by an Accountant Reinventing Event Finances One Festival at a Time - with Chris Carter 07/07/2025

Episode #495 - The Startup That Refused to Follow the Rules by an Accountant Reinventing Event Finances One Festival at a Time - with Chris Carter Hi, I’m Granger Forson – you can find me at or on LinkedIn. In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Chris Carter, founder of EventWise and long-time accountant behind In The Loop. Chris shares an incredible five-year journey of building a startup in one of the most volatile industries – live events – all while raising a young family, getting married, and self-funding the entire venture. His software, EventWise, was born out of necessity during the Covid-19 pandemic, but it's proving even more vital today. EventWise helps event organisers replace clunky, outdated spreadsheets with live financial data and smart scenario planning. What stands out is Chris’s resilience and honest reflection. He didn’t follow conventional startup wisdom—he built out all five core functionalities before launch, learned the hard way about marketing, and now has over 800 events using the platform, including major names like Broadwick. EventWise isn’t just software; it’s a tool built by someone who’s lived the pain points of event planning. Chris also opens up about managing burnout, the importance of team culture, and his transition from accountant to tech startup founder. His clarity of vision, perseverance, and deep love for the events industry shine through in every story he tells. If you’ve ever doubted whether perseverance pays off, this is the episode for you. Whether you're scaling your business or just starting out, Chris’s story will leave you inspired and equipped with new ideas to try out in your own journey. To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. So, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of bootstrapping resilience, financial innovation and industry transformation with Chris Carter. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff. You can get in touch with Granger here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Chris can be found here: Resources: The Lean Startup by Eric Ries - AI & I podcast - Motion AI - ClickUp - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36935235

Episode #494 - ScaleUp Club Exclusive: Building Habits and Processes - with Craig Hellen of Bexmedia 07/02/2025

Episode #494 - ScaleUp Club Exclusive: Building Habits and Processes - with Craig Hellen of Bexmedia In this exclusive ScaleUp Club edition of ScaleUp Radio, we’re joined by Craig Hellen, founder of Bexmedia, a video and motion graphics agency with nearly two decades of experience. This intimate discussion explores how Craig has implemented processes and built habits that help a small, creative team stay aligned, accountable, and productive – all while preserving a strong company culture. What You’ll Learn: How building consistent internal systems (like naming conventions and structured meetings) can improve clarity and alignment across the business. Why clearly communicating the ‘why’ behind new processes is essential for buy-in – especially in smaller teams. The impact of weekly task reviews with a VA on productivity and follow-through. How reinforcing core values through weekly meetings strengthens company culture and morale. The benefits of using tools like monday.com and developing a Business Operational Manual to drive clarity and execution. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Craig. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin & Granger here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Craig can be found here: /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36916170

Episode #493 - Smart Growth with Smart Lockers – with Ryan Slaney 06/30/2025

Episode #493 - Smart Growth with Smart Lockers – with Ryan Slaney Hi there and welcome back to another edition of ScaleUp Radio, the podcast brought to you by Smart90, inspired by the Entrepreneurial ScaleUp System and designed to make navigating our ScaleUp journeys that little bit easier by learning from others' experiences. I’m Kevin Brent, and in today's episode, I’m joined by Ryan Slaney, Founder and Managing Director of iLockerz – a business that’s leading the way in smart locker solutions for a wide range of industries. Our conversation today is structured in three parts: First, we take a look at iLockerz as a business, including its smart locker technology, use cases, and how it’s carved out a niche in the B2B space. Next, we discuss Ryan’s experience with the challenges of scaling, including a deep dive into lessons learned from product development, the evolution of their market offering. And finally, we wrap up with some quickfire questions to find out more about Ryan’s personal approach to leadership and growth. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Ryan. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Ryan can be found here: Resources: Your Next Five Moves by Patrick Bet-David - Pipedrive - https://www.pipedrive.com/ ChatGPT - Co-Pilot - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36860595

Episode #492 - Turning Passion into Luxury - with Karen Yates 06/25/2025

Episode #492 - Turning Passion into Luxury - with Karen Yates Hi there, and welcome back to another edition of ScaleUp Radio, the podcast inspired by the Entrepreneurial ScaleUp System and designed to make navigating our scaleup journeys a little bit easier by learning from others' experiences. I’m Kevin Brent, and in today's episode, I’m joined by Karen Yates, founder of Taylor Yates, a luxury handbag and accessories brand based in the UK. Our conversation today is structured in three parts: We start by discussing the business itself, its model, and where it is on the scaleup journey. We then explore Karen’s perspectives on the challenges of scaling up, including cash flow management and brand building, and hear her thoughts on the ScaleUp Challenges Report. Finally, we close off with a few quickfire questions to gain deeper insights into Karen’s entrepreneurial mindset. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Karen. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Karen can be found here: Resources: Daniel Priestley Oversubscribed - Aspire with Emma Grede podcast - Shopify - Notion - WhatsApp - ChatGPT - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36860105

Episode #491 - Brand Like a Jedi, Lead Like a Human and Why Purpose-Driven Companies Attract Loyal Teams and Clients - with Darrell Irwin 06/23/2025

Episode #491 - Brand Like a Jedi, Lead Like a Human and Why Purpose-Driven Companies Attract Loyal Teams and Clients - with Darrell Irwin Hi, I’m Granger Forson – find me at or connect on LinkedIn – and in this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I talk with Darrell Irwin, the visionary founder behind Cre8ion, Digital, and Humans. Darrell’s story isn’t just about scaling multiple businesses – it’s about scaling with meaning. From walking away from a lucrative agency deal over ethical misalignment to founding Cre8ion, a brand marketing agency rooted in purpose, Darrell shows us what it looks like when personal values shape business success. We explore how he built a tight-knit team through a unique pathway from volunteer to full-time employment, the surprising benefits of a four-day work week, and how constraint actually fuels creativity. His philosophy? Focus on people, purpose, and planet – and profit becomes a byproduct of meaningful impact. His leadership approach shines through in Humans, a personal development company creating space for real, raw conversations. Their ‘Humans Talks’ are like TED Talks but unfiltered – sharing life, struggle, and breakthrough in ways that connect beyond business. Darrell also reveals his grand plan: building an ecosystem of 12 businesses that cross-pollinate to serve the entrepreneur holistically – from branding to personal leadership. This episode is filled with insights, heart, and practical takeaways for anyone looking to scale with authenticity. To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. So, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of purpose, people and playbooks with Darrell Irwin. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Granger here: Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff. Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Darrell can be found here: Resources: Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed - The Crisis Catalyst by Darrell Irwin - High Performance Podcast - Joe Rogan podcast - High Performance app - Duolingo - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36845870

Episode #490 - Reignite Your Creativity and Build a Beautiful Business from Fabric and Focus - with Alice Garrett 06/18/2025

Episode #490 - Reignite Your Creativity and Build a Beautiful Business from Fabric and Focus - with Alice Garrett Hi, I’m Granger Forson – you can find me at or connect with me on LinkedIn. In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by the inspiring Alice Garrett, founder of Alice Caroline, a business built around the joyful art of quilting, Liberty Fabrics, and empowering creativity. What began as a desire to make Liberty Fabric more accessible to fellow enthusiasts has grown into a thriving enterprise with 34 staff, global reach, and over 700 fabrics curated for quilters, makers, and creatives. Alice’s story is not just about fabric – it’s about passion, purpose, and reconnecting people with creativity through beautifully designed sewing kits, workshops, and books. We talk about how Alice evolved from PhD chemist to entrepreneur, learning every day on the job, and growing a business that now runs five distinct yet interconnected operations – from e-commerce to manufacturing, and from subscription clubs to workshops. It’s a perfect example of “embrace problems” turning into a life’s mission. Culture is key in the Alice Caroline team, and Alice shares how she’s cultivated open communication, safe learning spaces, and the importance of transparency and trust – even when scaling. Her reflections on overcoming her own conflict aversion and learning to love leadership will resonate with any founder navigating growth. If you’re curious about creativity, passionate about purpose, or simply love hearing how businesses evolve through experimentation and joy in the workplace – this is an episode you’ll treasure 💡. To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. So, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of creativity, culture and focus with Alice Garrett. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Granger here: Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff. Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Alice can be found here: Resources: Never Eat Alone by Tahl Raz - The Code Of The Extraordinary Mind by Vishen Lakhiani - 4 Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss - Alex Hormozi The Game podcast - Notion app - The Mind Valley app - Instagram - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36769020

Episode #489 - Empowering Women Through Craft, with Resilience and Perseverance - with Sheila Ako 06/16/2025

Episode #489 - Empowering Women Through Craft, with Resilience and Perseverance - with Sheila Ako In this inspiring episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Sheila Ako Glavee, the founder of Skilled Hands Organisation, a remarkable social enterprise dedicated to empowering women and children through craft workshops. From humble beginnings in Ghana to establishing a recognised organisation in the UK, Sheila shares her journey of resilience, innovation, and community impact. Sheila recounts how her entrepreneurial path evolved — from publishing a lifestyle magazine in Ghana to creating social enterprises that uplift vulnerable communities. Skilled Hands started with a focus on unemployed women, providing them with valuable craft skills, and has since expanded to children and corporate workshops, generating new revenue streams for long-term sustainability. We explore Sheila’s experiences navigating the funding landscapes in Ghana and the UK, the critical importance of mastering grant writing, and how she balances sustainability with social impact. Sheila also reflects on the challenges of scaling a charitable enterprise, the role of partnerships, and her aspirations to expand Skilled Hands across the East Midlands and beyond. Highlights From the Episode Empowering through Craft: Skilled Hands has trained over 500 women in the past seven years and continues to grow. Entrepreneurial Resilience: From running In Thing Maglog to founding Skilled Hands, Sheila shares how self-reliance and perseverance have shaped her journey. Funding Realities: A candid look at the differences between securing funding in Ghana versus the UK, and the critical skills needed to succeed. Vision for Growth: Sheila's ambitious plan to create a global network of Skilled Hands hubs and make a lasting societal impact. Personal Legacy: Sheila’s passion for leaving a meaningful legacy for her family and future generations. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Sheila. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Sheila can be found here: Resources: Podcast with Sheila - Archbishop Duncan Williams podcast - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36746045

Episode #488 - Scaling a Business with Stories, Strategy, and Heart - with Ben Lowndes 06/11/2025

Episode #488 - Scaling a Business with Stories, Strategy, and Heart - with Ben Lowndes Hi, I’m Granger Forson — you can find me at or connect with me on LinkedIn. Welcome to another inspiring episode of ScaleUp Radio! In this episode, I’m joined by Ben Lowndes, founder of Distinctive Communications, a fast-growing, purpose-led PR and communications consultancy based in the South West. Ben shares his unique journey — leaving a successful career without a set plan, building a business grounded in trust, flexibility, and impact. We explore how Distinctive Communications stands out in a noisy world by telling powerful, human-cantered stories and putting strategy before tactics. Ben opens up about why understanding your real "why" is crucial before you take action — a lesson that resonates deeply for anyone on a scale up journey. We dive into the joy and challenges of flexible and remote working and how creating "fixed points" of connection within a hybrid team can be the secret to building culture and momentum. Ben also shares a powerful story of social impact, where his team’s work raised vital funds to combat holiday hunger in their community — a real example of business making a difference. If you want to learn how slowing down your planning can actually speed up your business success, and how great conversations lead to fabulous results, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped with real-world takeaways. To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. So, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of building trust, flexible culture, and authentic impact with Ben. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff. You can get in touch with Granger here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff. Ben can be found here: Resources: The Nowhere Office by Julia Hobsbawm - One Night In Turin by Pete Davies - Anti Social from BBC Radio 4 podcast - Americast podcast - Asana - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36726915

Episode #487 - Building a Brand with Trust, Numbers and a Fractional FD Model with lessons from Tectona’s Journey - with Mark Nicholls 06/09/2025

Episode #487 - Building a Brand with Trust, Numbers and a Fractional FD Model with lessons from Tectona’s Journey - with Mark Nicholls Hi, I’m Granger Forson – you can find me at or connect with me on LinkedIn. In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I sit down with Mark Nicholls, the founder of Tectona Partnership – a business that provides part-time Finance Director services to companies navigating financial complexity. Mark’s story is one of perseverance, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of what it takes to build trust and a brand in a competitive market. Starting with just two people in 2012, Tectona has grown into a team of 17 highly qualified FDs, supporting businesses under £20m turnover who need strategic financial help but aren’t ready to bring someone in full-time. We explore how Mark has learned the hard way about the value of delegation, why trying to do it all yourself is a false economy, and the slow but powerful growth that comes from building a reputation through networking and relationships – not just advertising spend. Mark is passionate about helping businesses make better decisions through better data. He speaks candidly about the "price-volume matrix" and how understanding a few key levers in your business could dramatically boost your profitability. And we dig into some rich insights on culture, growth pacing, and how having the right people – and only the right people – can make or break a service-driven business. To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. So, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of decision-making, brand building and fractional finance with Mark Nicholls. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Granger here: Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff. Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Mark can be found here: Resources: The Rest Is Politics podcast - Xero - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36669490

Episode #486 - Balancing Growth, Culture, and Family in ISO Quality Services - with Jennifer Appleton 06/04/2025

Episode #486 - Balancing Growth, Culture, and Family in ISO Quality Services - with Jennifer Appleton In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent sits down with Jennifer Appleton, the dynamic Director behind ISO Quality Services, a Worcester-based business that's been helping companies achieve ISO certifications for over two decades. Jennifer shares the story of how this family business has scaled from a local consultancy to a global service provider, supporting clients in over 28 countries. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🔹 The Business Model: ISO Quality Services thrives on a hybrid revenue model combining upfront implementation fees with a recurring client maintenance model—making for a stable and predictable cash flow. With around 550 clients and a team of 22 in-house employees, plus a network of 20-24 subcontractors, the company has reached a £1.5M turnover and is ambitiously heading toward £2M. 🔹 Challenges of Scaling: Jennifer opens up about the hurdles that come with growth, including staff retention, external impacts like Google algorithm shifts affecting lead generation, and the ongoing challenge of staying competitive with larger firms, especially on salary offerings. 🔹 Family Business Dynamics: Having joined the business her father started 25 years ago, Jennifer reflects on the complexities of leading a family-run company—balancing different viewpoints while always prioritising what’s best for the business. 🔹 Culture & Development: A robust six-month induction process, regular feedback cycles, and mental health support are just a few of the ways ISO Quality Services invests in its people. Jennifer emphasises the importance of aligning employees with the company’s values and long-term vision. 🔹 Strategic Leadership: From quarterly planning to bi-weekly ops meetings, Jennifer shares how structured leadership and planning have helped the business stay on course with its long-term goals. 🔹 Marketing Evolution: With lead generation once dominated by Google search, Jennifer talks about the pivot toward referral-based business and networking—especially as digital algorithms and AI tools like ChatGPT shift the landscape. Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. Y For now, continue listening for the full story from Jennifer. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Jennifer can be found here: Resources: Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Programme - Productivity Ninja by Graham Allcott - 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People by Stephen R Covey - Fireflies Notetaker - HubSpot - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36668065

Episode #485 - Aligning Business With Values, To Create A Winning Marketplace - with Lorraine Allman 06/02/2025

Episode #485 - Aligning Business With Values, To Create A Winning Marketplace - with Lorraine Allman On this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Lorraine Allman, a purpose-driven entrepreneur and the founder of Party Without Plastic – a marketplace for sustainable, plastic-free party supplies that launched in spring 2024 and is already on an exciting growth trajectory. Lorraine brings a wealth of experience to the conversation, having built and scaled multiple ventures. In this insightful and honest discussion, she shares the highs and lows of her journey so far, from funding challenges to transitioning from founder-led to team-based operations, all while keeping a firm eye on purpose, sustainability, and profit. In this episode, you’ll discover: How Party Without Plastic curates sustainable party products from UK-based small businesses Why building a scalable technical infrastructure took nine months – and was absolutely worth it The commission-based marketplace model that only charges sellers when sales are made Lorraine’s top tips for securing external investment, including aligning on values and vision The power of social proof, including accreditations like the Global Good Market, in customer acquisition The challenges of scaling a team, maintaining brand consistency, and managing time effectively Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. For now, continue listening for the full story from Lorraine. Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for. If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here: You can get in touch with Kevin here: Kevin's Latest Book Is Available! Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up. More on the Book HERE - Lorraine can be found here: Resources: The Brand Is Female podcast - Let My People Go Surfing podcast - It Really Is Just Good Business By Jill Poet - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/36656410

ScaleUp Radio

TOPICS