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 #448 - It’s About Collaboration, Transparency & Passion - with Fiona Wylie 01/22/2025

Episode #448 - It’s About Collaboration, Transparency & Passion - with Fiona Wylie In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent speaks with Fiona Wylie, the CEO and founder of Brand Champions, a dynamic marketing consultancy with a unique team of ex-clients. Brand Champions positions itself as an extension of its clients’ marketing teams, providing bespoke marketing solutions across industries ranging from healthcare to restaurants, including big names like Pizza Express. Fiona shares the inspiring story of building a consultancy that not only delivers exceptional results but also maintains a laser focus on client satisfaction and team happiness – both exceeding 90%. The conversation is divided into three key sections: The Business: Fiona provides a detailed overview of Brand Champions, including its transparent pricing model, virtual team structure, and wide range of services. Scaling Challenges: We dive into the obstacles Fiona has faced, such as generating new business and retaining a cohesive team, and the strategies she’s implemented to overcome them. Quickfire Insights: Fiona shares her thoughts on consistent marketing strategies, balancing brand-building with sales activation, and what the future holds for Brand Champions, including their global ambitions. 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 Fiona. 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 - Fiona can be found here: Resources: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho - The Immortal Life of Agencies podcast - SparkToro - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34878775

Episode #447 - Transforming Leadership and Culture - with Tess Cope 01/20/2025

Episode #447 - Transforming Leadership and Culture - with Tess Cope In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Tess Cope, the founder of The Transformation Agency, to explore her systemic coaching framework, leadership development strategies, and the scaling journey of her business. Tess shares her expertise in working with medium to large organisations to enhance leadership team dynamics and organisational culture. She also reveals how her coaching approach, HARNESS, helps leaders identify behavioural patterns and navigate complex transitions. Whether you're scaling a team, hiring new leaders, or trying to maintain your organisational culture through growth, Tess offers invaluable advice for founders and leaders alike. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The HARNESS Framework: How unpacking personal and organisational history can lead to sustainable behavioural shifts. The importance of addressing root causes, from stakeholder feedback to mapping family patterns. Leadership Transition Challenges: How to “clean the seat” for new leaders while honouring past contributions. Managing allergic reactions to new hires and balancing autonomy with legacy relationships. Advice for Founders Scaling Their Business: Recruiting for cultural fit, involving your team in hiring, and using competency-based tools. Staying consistent in business development efforts, even during tough times. Practical tips for managing time and staying intentional about 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 Tess. 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 - Tess can be found here: Resources: Harness by Tess Cope - Your Team Is Not The Issue by Tess Cope - The New Psychology of Winning by - Otter app - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34865995

Episode #446 - From Startup to £8M in 3 Years: The Secret Sauce of Media Planning and Scaling - with Adam Hopkinson 01/15/2025

Episode #446 - From Startup to £8M in 3 Years: The Secret Sauce of Media Planning and Scaling - with Adam Hopkinson Hi there, I’m Granger Forson. You can find me at [www.bizsmart-gloucestershire.co.uk](http://www.bizsmart-gloucestershire.co.uk) or connect with me on LinkedIn. In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I speak with Adam Hopkinson, founder of PASHN Media Agency. PASHN Media, founded in 2022, is a dynamic media planning and buying agency that connects brands with their ideal customers. Adam and his team specialize in the fashion, entertainment, and leisure sectors, catering to clients with advertising budgets of £1-1.5M per year. Within three years, Adam has grown PASHN to an impressive £8M in revenue with a team of 12 – all while maintaining profitability and a clear focus on innovation and client impact. Adam shares how he built PASHN “cold,” relying on industry relationships, creative marketing, and a strong emphasis on empowering his team. From finding versatile “open water swimmers” to shaping roles as the business grows, Adam emphasizes a culture of adaptability and collaboration, ensuring the team is aligned and motivated to excel. We also discuss the importance of financial discipline in scaling a business, with Adam highlighting the value of early financial planning and clear communication with clients. He offers invaluable insights into the challenges of startup life, including navigating difficult client relationships and maintaining a steady cash flow. This episode is packed with actionable advice, whether you’re scaling your business or dreaming of building your own venture. Adam’s story is a masterclass in leveraging experience, staying flexible, and turning a vision into reality. 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 growth, finding the right team, and vision with Adam Hopkinson. 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: 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 - Adam can be found here: 07944 380323 Resources: Ogilvy on Advertising by David Ogilvy - Let’s Do The Right Thing podcast - Rydoo app - Microsoft Suite - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34785820

Episode #445 - Bringing Real Passion and Accessible, Smarter Data to Real Estate - with Sebastian Boncu 01/13/2025

Episode #445 - Bringing Real Passion and Accessible, Smarter Data to Real Estate - with Sebastian Boncu In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, we dive into the exciting world of geospatial AI and its transformative potential in real estate with Sebastian Boncu, the CEO and founder of Voolu. Sebastian shares how his company is using cutting-edge technology to make data analysis more accessible, smarter, and impactful for decision-making in real estate and beyond. We discuss: The Business and its Vision Voolu is developing a geospatial AI platform that aggregates various datasets, including real estate, census, and crime data, making it interrogable using natural language AI. Their goal? To refine property valuation with unprecedented accuracy and eventually become a leading geospatial analysis tool across Europe. The Scaleup Journey Starting as a bootstrapped venture three years ago, Voolu has since raised £350k, led by SFC Capital, and is now laser-focused on securing larger contracts to de-risk future funding rounds. Sebastian talks about the challenges of navigating startup life, balancing a bold vision with lean methodology, and the critical role of the right team. The Challenges and Lessons Learned From assembling a motivated, equity-incentivised team to learning through small failures, Sebastian underscores the importance of passion, continuous action, and finding experienced advisors in driving growth. The Road Ahead With ambitious plans to scale operations across Europe in the next five years, Voolu is building out AI-powered tools to enhance property valuation accuracy, expanding datasets, and preparing to ramp up marketing once product-market fit is solidified. 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 Sebastian. 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 - Sebastian can be found here: Resources: Y Combinator - Diary of a CEO - LinkedIn - Fathom - ChatGPT - Slack - WhatsApp - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34785190

Episode #444 - High-Performance Teams and Non-Linear Leadership - with Tarek Jomaa 01/08/2025

Episode #444 - High-Performance Teams and Non-Linear Leadership - with Tarek Jomaa In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, host Kevin Brent dives into the fascinating intersection of motorsports and leadership with Dr. Tarek Jomaa. Dr. Jomaa’s journey from a PhD in vehicle dynamics and motorsports engineering to leadership training offers unique perspectives on building high-performance teams and scaling businesses. Dr. Jomaa introduces the 4C Model – Consolidation, Clarity, Consistency, and Collaboration – a framework that parallels the precision of motorsports to create and sustain high-performing teams. From understanding non-linear thinking in decision-making to balancing the roles of technician, entrepreneur, and manager, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for scaling businesses. We also explore how advanced AI tools could reshape the way we assess team performance while navigating ethical challenges. Whether you're a business leader or a motorsport enthusiast, this episode offers a fresh take on leadership and teamwork. Key Highlights: Motorsports Meets Leadership: How vehicle dynamics concepts like tire grip and weight transfer inform team dynamics and leadership strategies. The 4C Model for Teams: Insights into team profiling and improving performance through shared vision, clear roles, consistency, and collaboration. Non-Linear Leadership Thinking: Why effective leaders must weigh trade-offs and make balanced decisions. Scaling Businesses with E-Myth Principles: Dr. Jomaa discusses balancing leadership roles and delegating effectively as businesses grow. AI in Team Performance: Exploring the potential – and ethical concerns – of using AI to track and optimise team dynamics. 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 Tarek. 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 - Tarek can be found here: Resources: Thinking Fast & Slow by Daniel Kahneman - The E-Myth by Michael E Gerbe - Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely - ChatGPT - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34545300

Episode #443 - From Burnout to Breakthrough: One Man's Fearless Business Journey - with Robin Waite 01/06/2025

Episode #443 - From Burnout to Breakthrough: One Man's Fearless Business Journey - with Robin Waite Hi there! I’m Granger Forson, and you can find me at or connect with me on LinkedIn. This episode of ScaleUp Radio features the inspiring journey of Robin Waite, founder of Fearless Business, a coaching practice helping service-based businesses thrive. Robin’s story begins with running a successful web design and marketing agency for over a decade. Despite growing to 180 clients and generating nearly £250,000 in revenue, Robin faced burnout and made the courageous decision to close the business. What followed was a transformative shift into coaching, where Robin now empowers entrepreneurs to repackage their services, escape the time-for-money trap, and double their revenue while working with fewer clients. In this episode, Robin shares the importance of strategic partnerships, focusing on marketing assets with long-term impact, and prioritizing health and meaningful work. His insights on pricing strategies—such as raising rates dramatically to attract better clients—are eye-opening and actionable for any business leader. We also explore how Robin’s recent health challenges have shaped his approach to work and life, emphasizing joy, travel, and connections over the grind. With practical tips on building influential relationships and creating sustainable marketing strategies, Robin’s story is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone on a ScaleUp 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 resilience, transformation, and fearless growth with Robin Waite. 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: 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 - Robin can be found here: Resources: Take Your Shot by Robin Waite - Built To Sell by John Warrillow - The Road Less Stupid by Keith J Cunningham - Key Person Of Influence by Dan Priestley - Oversubscribed by Dan Priestley - The Futur by Chris Dove podcast - Deep Dive with Ali Abdul podcast - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34528810

Episode #442 - How Made Here With Love Brings Mental Health Awareness to Size-Inclusive Jewellery - with Chloe Roberts 12/30/2024

Episode #442 - How Made Here With Love Brings Mental Health Awareness to Size-Inclusive Jewellery - with Chloe Roberts In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, we sit down with Chloe Roberts, founder of Made Here With Love, a size-inclusive, custom gemstone jewellery brand that is making waves in the industry with its focus on mental health awareness and ethical practices. Chloe shares the inspiring journey behind Made Here With Love, a business she started just two years ago after transitioning from a career as a management accountant. From creating beautiful bracelets, rings, necklaces, and earrings that fit everyone, to donating 10% of all sales to the mental health charity MIND, Chloe’s story is one of passion, purpose, and perseverance. We delve into: The unique selling points of Made Here With Love, including its size-inclusive designs offered at no extra cost. The brand's dual focus on profitability and philanthropy. Chloe’s marketing success using Instagram and TikTok to share personal and honest content. The challenges of scaling a small family-run business while staying true to its core values. Chloe also candidly discusses the lessons learned from an early investment misstep and the importance of building repeat customers through meaningful relationships. a brand with purpose, plus a few quickfire questions to close off. 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 Chloe. 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 - Chloe can be found here: Resources: We Can All Make It by Sara Davies - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34528430

Episode #441 - Scaling with Values and Vision – Creating a High-Performance Culture - with Steve Rawlingson from Samuel Knight Group 12/23/2024

Episode #441 - Scaling with Values and Vision – Creating a High-Performance Culture - with Steve Rawlingson from Samuel Knight Group In this special episode of ScaleUp Radio, we’re joined by Steve Rawlingson, a returning guest and the founder of Samuel Knight Group. With a remarkable scale-up journey under his belt, Steve shares insights on building a scalable team, maintaining a high-performance culture, and staying focused on strategic goals. Samuel Knight Group, a global recruitment company specialising in the renewable energy sector, has achieved impressive milestones, including £35 million in sales in 2023 and the potential to reach £1 billion+ within five years. From hiring strategies to leadership approaches, Steve’s experience offers invaluable lessons for scale-up leaders navigating rapid growth and complex challenges. Key Discussion Points Scaling with a Focus on Values and Mindset: The importance of hiring for values and a growth mindset over skills. Lessons learned from early hiring mistakes, with only 2 of the first 20 hires remaining long-term. Psychometric testing as a tool to align candidates with the mission of achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050. Creating and Sustaining a High-Performance Culture: Transitioning from a management to a leadership-driven organisation, leading by example. The move towards a 100% employee ownership model by 2026 to align mission and accountability. Building a self-managing culture where every team member understands their role and contributions. Strategic Focus and Execution: Avoiding distractions by sticking to core market sectors and focusing on environmental impact metrics, such as megawatts of power created. Utilising regular planning rhythms like 90-day plans and clear KPIs to maintain alignment and drive growth. The significance of peer support networks like Smart Boards and the Smart90 program for effective planning and execution. Overcoming Challenges with a Growth Mindset: Viewing obstacles as opportunities and embracing change. Steve compares the scale-up journey to climbing a mountain: persistence and belief in your mission are critical to achieving the next level. 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 Steve. 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 - Steve Can be found here: /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34528095

Episode #440 - Ensuring Fairness In A Competitive World - with Jeremy Stern from PromoVeritas 12/18/2024

Episode #440 - Ensuring Fairness In A Competitive World - with Jeremy Stern from PromoVeritas In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent speaks with Jeremy Stern, the founder of PromoVeritas, a promotional compliance specialist that has grown from a one-person operation into a global leader with a team of 50 and operations spanning 88 countries. PromoVeritas ensures that promotions, competitions, and prize draws run by some of the world’s biggest brands—like Cadbury, Pringles, and Amazon—are legal, fair, and effective. Jeremy shares the story of his entrepreneurial journey, from founding the business 20 years ago after being fired from Sega to recently transitioning the company to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). This episode is structured in three parts: The Business and Its ScaleUp Journey: Jeremy discusses PromoVeritas' service offerings, business model, and impressive growth. Challenges of Scaling Up: He reflects on overcoming ignorance about the need for compliance services, managing relationships with marketing clients, and adapting to hybrid working post-COVID. Quickfire Questions: Jeremy shares his insights on leadership, maintaining culture, and the company’s plans for continued international 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 Jeremy. 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 - Jeremy can be found here: Resources: Blinkist app - Eat, Sleep Work & Repeat by Bruce Daisley - The Prince by Machiavelli - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34394980

Episode #439 - Building A Successful Canine Online Presence, Which Isn’t To Be Sniffed At - with Stephnie Gribble from Canine Collection 12/16/2024

Episode #439 - Building A Successful Canine Online Presence, Which Isn’t To Be Sniffed At - with Stephnie Gribble from Canine Collection Hi there and welcome to another inspiring episode of ScaleUp Radio, the podcast designed to make navigating the ScaleUp journey a little easier by learning from the experiences of others. This week, I’m joined by Stephnie Gribble, founder and owner of Canine Collection, an innovative online dog store launched in January 2024. Stephnie has achieved remarkable growth in less than a year, combining eco-conscious values with an eye for modern marketing strategies. In this episode, we’ll dive into the fascinating story behind Canine Collection, explore the challenges Stephnie has faced, and uncover her ambitious plans for the future. Key Highlights: A Unique Selling Proposition: Canine Collection specialises in eco-friendly and vegan-friendly products, including toys made from recycled t-shirts and harnesses crafted from plastic bottles. Stephnie is committed to providing affordable, high-quality items for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Marketing Magic: Leveraging social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Stephnie has created a strong online presence and even built a network of "dog reps" to promote her products. Her approach includes competitions, engagement tactics, and showcasing her own personality in the brand’s marketing. Early Success: Despite being a young business, Canine Collection has already been shortlisted for awards like the Great British Entrepreneur Awards and participated in major events such as Crufts just months after launching. 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 Stephnie. 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 - Stephanie can be found here: Resources: Risk Roulette by Graham Ruddick - The Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett - Clear Thinking by Shane Parrish - Surrounded By Idiots by Thomas Erikson - Photo Circle app - CapCut - Tamsin Broster - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34346825

Episode #438 - Thinking Big For Growth; Going From The Street To A Full Content Agency - with Inge Hunter from Clue Content 12/11/2024

Episode #438 - Thinking Big For Growth; Going From The Street To A Full Content Agency - with Inge Hunter from Clue Content In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Inge Hunter, founder of Clue Content, a fast-growing content marketing agency blending video production, social media management, and data analytics. Inge shares the innovative ways Clue Content is helping scale-ups harness the power of organic social media through a data-driven, cost-effective approach. From her entrepreneurial roots to her vision of democratising social media marketing, Inge offers insight into both her business philosophy and her impressive growth strategies. Key Takeaways: Unique Business Model: Clue Content offers a comprehensive content marketing package, combining a team of specialists with a proprietary data analytics tool that predicts content performance on social media. Funding and Team Culture: The company has successfully leveraged equity funding to drive rapid growth and technological innovation while creating a supportive, flexible work culture with a 4-day work week and ownership opportunities for employees. Entrepreneurial Vision: Inge’s journey includes an inspiring commitment to making organic social media a more predictable driver of growth for businesses, with a vision to invest in female entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds. 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 Inge. 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 - Inge can be found here: Resources: Masterclass app - HMRC app - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34281855

Episode #437 - Redefining the Art World: How To Empower Artists Without Gallery Representation - with Kate Enters from ArtCan 12/09/2024

Episode #437 - Redefining the Art World: How To Empower Artists Without Gallery Representation - with Kate Enters from ArtCan In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent sits down with Kate Enters, the dynamic founder of ArtCan, a non-profit arts organisation designed to help artists find their voice and showcase their work beyond the traditional gallery system. Kate shares the remarkable story of ArtCan’s origins, its unconventional non-profit model, and the community it has built for artists seeking exhibition opportunities without gallery representation. With over 600 artists involved from 25+ countries, ArtCan has grown into a global community for artists, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that empowers individuals to take control of their artistic careers. We delve into Kate’s visionary approach to leadership, ArtCan’s unique volunteer structure, and the organisation’s plans for sustainable growth. She discusses the balance between flexibility and structure, aiming to keep ArtCan accessible to artists while also exploring monetization avenues such as corporate sponsorships and membership fees. Kate’s journey offers an inspiring look at how passion, adaptability, and a trust in her instincts have enabled her to build a thriving, artist-first network that challenges the status quo in the art world. Key Topics: ArtCan's Founding Vision and Unique Non-Profit Model Discover how Kate founded ArtCan a decade ago as an inclusive alternative to the traditional gallery system, creating a space where artists without representation can exhibit their work. ArtCan’s model eliminates sales commissions, with artists only paying small participation fees, making it a more accessible platform for emerging talent. The organisation hosts 10-15 exhibitions per year, including a virtual gallery born from the pandemic, reaching audiences worldwide. Volunteer-Driven Structure and Organisational Challenges ArtCan operates entirely with a volunteer team, including a board of trustees, coaches, and an advisory committee, all dedicated to supporting the artists. Kate explains the challenges of expanding the audience, securing funding, and planning to introduce membership fees to enhance ArtCan’s sustainability. Kate's Approach to Leadership and Growth Emphasising flexibility and intuition, Kate promotes a leadership style that empowers artists to own their process while maintaining a consistent framework for ArtCan’s operations. She shares her aspirations to transition ArtCan’s business structure over the next few years, including creating paid roles for core volunteers and building a formal strategy around partnerships and funding. Marketing and Community Engagement ArtCan leverages social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to amplify its reach internationally and relies on word-of-mouth within the artist community. The organisation’s creative fundraising initiatives, such as its annual postcard exhibition and holiday art quiz, also contribute to community building and awareness. 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 Kate. 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 - Kate can be found here: /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34281105

Episode #436 - Marketing the Future: AI, Marketing, and Agile Growth - with David Sloly 12/04/2024

Episode #436 - Marketing the Future: AI, Marketing, and Agile Growth - with David Sloly Hi, I'm Granger Forson, and you can find me at [BizSmart Gloucestershire](www.bizsmart-gloucestershire.co.uk) or connect with me on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com). In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by David Sloly, co-owner of HarveyDavid, a technology-driven B2B marketing agency. Over the past 11 years, David has built a unique agency that combines tech, content, and AI to transform how clients engage their markets. We discuss the unplanned approach to growth that’s at the heart of his entrepreneurial philosophy—starting small, iterating quickly, and focusing on action over extensive planning. David shares how HarveyDavid has structured its business model around selective client partnerships, high-quality delivery, and robust financial management. They work only with clients who align with their vision, avoiding traditional pitches and instead fostering long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. David also discusses their innovative approach to financial management, which includes separating funds for VAT, taxes, and daily operations to ensure a steady foundation for growth. Our conversation takes a deep dive into AI's role in marketing. David’s latest venture, a groundbreaking AI-generated podcast sitcom called “Made in AI,” showcases the potential of AI in content production. He shares insights on how rapidly advancing AI is both challenging and reshaping the industry—raising ethical questions, creating new job possibilities, and bringing efficiencies previously unimaginable. David’s advice for fellow entrepreneurs focuses on flexibility, resilience, and knowing when to delegate versus take ownership. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining direct control over core business functions, like new client acquisition, and advocates for a value-driven approach—one where creating meaningful connections with customers outweighs mere financial metrics. Don’t miss this conversation packed with actionable insights and a unique perspective on the evolving world of marketing, AI, and agile business strategies. Join us as David highlights the importance of passion, timing, and keeping a close eye on market readiness. Whether you're a startup founder or an established business owner, David’s journey offers a fresh perspective on building and scaling with purpose and adaptability. 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 unplanning, AI-driven creativity, and resilient growth with David Sloly. 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: 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 Incoming Wave by Mustafa Suleyman - Made in AI podcast - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34178100

Episode #435 - From Pop-Ups to Multi-City Restaurants: Scaling Restaurants with Passion and Precision - with Dorian Kirk 12/02/2024

Episode #435 - From Pop-Ups to Multi-City Restaurants: Scaling Restaurants with Passion and Precision - with Dorian Kirk Hi, I’m Granger Forson, business coach and host of ScaleUp Radio. You can find me at [BizSmart Gloucestershire](www.bizsmart-gloucestershire.co.uk) or connect with me on LinkedIn. In this episode, I’m joined by Dorian Kirk, founder of Art Hospitality, whose restaurant group journey has transformed from humble pop-up beginnings to a powerhouse of chef-led concepts across multiple cities. Dorian’s experience in the industry—starting at the age of 14 as a dishwasher—has nurtured a deep-rooted passion for culinary innovation and authentic leadership. Dorian shares how he and his brother began Art Hospitality with just £500 and a single concept, expanding into a multi-brand group with six thriving restaurants. He emphasizes the importance of empowering talented chefs by offering ownership stakes, creating what he calls “Chef-preneurs.” This innovative approach has become the heartbeat of Art Hospitality, blending creativity with entrepreneurship to drive each new concept's unique flair. One of the highlights of Dorian's journey is his ability to adapt under pressure. Faced with the pandemic’s challenges, Dorian quickly pivoted, investing in outdoor spaces and launching fresh concepts to not only survive but thrive. His dedication to his team and his relentless pursuit of excellence have helped Art Hospitality come out stronger, with plans for significant growth in the coming years, including expanding their Maneki Ramen brand and new ventures into pub and fine dining sectors. Leadership has been a transformative aspect of Dorian’s journey. Transitioning from a hands-on chef to a strategic leader, he has implemented a culture where “the best ideas win” and empowered his team to take charge. With a keen focus on operational excellence and team growth, Dorian continues to drive Art Hospitality forward while remaining true to his values of quality, resilience, and creativity. Join us for an inspiring episode filled with lessons on navigating growth, adapting to adversity, and fostering an innovative workplace culture. Dorian’s story of growth and empowerment is a powerful example of what it means to build not just a successful business, but a legacy. 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, creativity, and empowerment with Dorian Kirk. 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: 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 - Dorian can be found here: Resources: The E-Myth by Michael E Gerber - The Surrender Experiment by Michael A Singer - The Diary of a CEO podcast - Monday - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34177065

Episode #434 - ScaleUp Club - Where Are You On Your Scaling Up Journey - with Jame James from Little Voices 11/27/2024

Episode #434 - ScaleUp Club - Where Are You On Your Scaling Up Journey - with Jame James from Little Voices In this ScaleUp Club Q&A episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent speaks with Jane James, the founder of Little Voices, a company she started 17 years ago to help children find confidence through drama and singing. What began as a single location has grown into a successful network of over 30 franchisees, positively impacting the lives of more than 100,000 children. In this episode, Jane shares the pivotal moments and challenges she faced while scaling Little Voices and answers questions posed to her by members of our ScaleUp Club audience. Some of the key topics discussed include: The early vision behind Little Voices and its mission to empower children. How Jane had to 'get out of her own way' to allow her business to grow, which meant learning to trust and empower others. The franchising journey, from launching the first pilot to expanding the network to over 30 franchisees. The significant challenges posed by COVID-19 and how the business adapted to survive and thrive. Jane's evolution as a leader, including how understanding herself and her team better has contributed to the company's success. This is an inspiring conversation for anyone considering franchising as a growth model or looking to build a resilient business that can navigate unforeseen challenges. 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 discussion with Jane. 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 - Jane can be found here: /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34034774

Episode #433 - Automation & AI: The Future of Business with Data Cubed - with Helen Tanner 11/25/2024

Episode #433 - Automation & AI: The Future of Business with Data Cubed - with Helen Tanner Welcome to another insightful episode of ScaleUp Radio, hosted by Granger Forson! You can find me at [www.bizsmart-gloucestershire.co.uk](http://www.bizsmart-gloucestershire.co.uk) or connect with me on LinkedIn. In this episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Helen Tanner, the founder of Data3, a data AI consultancy that’s been transforming businesses for over seven years. DataCUBE helps organisations untangle their data and unlock powerful insights, paving the way for leaner, more efficient operations. Helen shares how DataCUBE pivoted from a traditional setup to an ultra-lean model by eliminating all non-essential roles like administration and marketing. Now, DataCUBE is run exclusively by technical experts and powered by cutting-edge automation tools. This shift allowed the company to focus on what they do best—delivering bespoke data solutions that help businesses scale without the typical overhead. We also explore how DataCUBE’s success is built on being tech-agnostic, tailoring solutions to meet each client’s unique needs. Helen discusses their effective marketing strategies, from C-suite events to SEO, and why they ditched cold outreach entirely. Throughout the episode, Helen reflects on her personal growth as a leader, the lessons she’s learned from scaling, and her vision for the future of AI-powered businesses. It’s a candid, inspiring conversation that will leave you rethinking how to leverage technology in your own business! If you’re passionate about innovation, leadership, or the potential of AI, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and get ready to be inspired by Helen’s journey to building a data-driven business for the future. 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 automation, efficiency, and innovation with Helen Tanner. 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: 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 - Helen can be found here: Resources: Million Dollar Leads by Alex Hormozi - Million Dollar Offers by Alex Hormozi - Solve For Happy by Mo Gawdat - Diary of a CEO podcast - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/34033178

Episode #432 - Navigating Hidden Organizational Dynamics - with Vanessa Pozzali of Synthosys 11/20/2024

Episode #432 - Navigating Hidden Organizational Dynamics - with Vanessa Pozzali of Synthosys In this insightful episode of ScaleUp Radio, your host Kevin Brent is joined by Vanessa Pozzali, the co-founder of Synthosys, a consultancy that specialises in unlocking the hidden aspects of organisations, including culture, leadership, and building high-performance teams. Vanessa shares how Synthosys uses a unique "iceberg" model, focusing on the unseen yet critical elements that drive sustainable organisational success. Synthosys takes a deep dive into what she calls the 4C model, exploring collaboration, communication, clarity, and one crucial element she keeps under wraps! With this approach, Synthosys helps businesses transform their cultures and enhance leadership capabilities, making the invisible visible. Key Discussion Points: Synthosys' Approach to Organisational Culture: Vanessa explains how they view organisations as icebergs, addressing the hidden, often ignored dynamics that affect long-term performance. Synthosys assesses different culture types, using bespoke questionnaires to explore both conscious and unconscious company dynamics. The consultancy implements tailored workshops, leadership programs, and coaching to align a company's culture with its core values. Leadership Challenges and Development: Vanessa highlights the difficulties leaders face when transitioning from founder-led to team-driven cultures. Many leaders are promoted for their technical expertise, not leadership abilities, which can lead to challenges. She also discusses the critical role of emotional intelligence in leadership and how it can be developed through feedback and practice. Leaders need consistent support and supervision, especially to manage the feelings of isolation that can come with leadership roles. Building High-Performance Teams: Synthosys emphasises the importance of trust as the foundation for delegation and effective teamwork. Vanessa touches on the importance of clear communication, including the need to share uncertainties and ambiguities, which fosters trust and cohesion within teams. She discusses the necessity of balancing a results-driven approach with employee well-being to ensure sustainable high performance, particularly in light of changing work preferences, such as the need for flexibility and remote work options. Cultural Differences in Business: Vanessa also explores the influence of cultural differences on business dynamics, comparing the direct communication style in Italian businesses to the more diplomatic “sandwich” feedback approach common in the UK. Understanding these cultural nuances, she explains, is vital for effective leadership and communication, particularly in today’s global business landscape. 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 Vanessa. 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 - Vanessa can be found here: Vanessa’s Linktree: Synthosys Linktree: /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33916132

Episode #431 - Supporting Artists Whilst Changing The Marketplace - with John Sewell 11/18/2024

Episode #431 - Supporting Artists Whilst Changing The Marketplace - with John Sewell Supporting Artists Whilst Changing The Marketplace In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent speaks with John Sewell, founder of Cosimo, an innovative online marketplace designed to help early-career and emerging artists showcase and sell their work. With over 1,200 artists already on the platform, Cosimo aims to make art more accessible and affordable while supporting artists through e-learning resources and strategic partnerships. Key Discussion Points: Cosimo’s Unique Business Model Cosimo is designed to support artists in their early careers, offering free listings for artists with the option of paid subscriptions for enhanced features. Unlike traditional art marketplaces, Cosimo doesn’t charge commission fees (which can range from 30% to 50% in the art industry). Instead, the revenue comes from artist subscriptions and corporate sponsorships. Buyers pay for shipping, which includes protection, similar to the Vinted model. Overcoming Fundraising Challenges As a first-time founder, John shares the tough lessons learned from raising funds through the Seedrs crowdfunding platform. It took two years to secure his first funding round, gaining 150+ investors who now form a valuable network. He also highlights the setbacks caused by delays from a micro VC and stresses the importance of contingency planning for future fundraising. Focusing on Marketplace Development While the platform initially concentrated on acquiring artists, the focus has shifted towards attracting buyers and proving market demand. John shares how content creation and social media are key to showcasing the artists' work, and discusses the development of e-learning resources to help artists improve their business skills. This shift is essential as Cosimo aims to create a sustainable and profitable business model before further investment. Technology and the Future John also looks to the future, exploring how technologies like AR/VR and AI can enhance the art-buying experience and create new revenue streams for artists. He envisions a world where AI helps more people tap into their creativity, ultimately expanding the market for Cosimo. John’s Personal Growth as a Founder A lifelong learner, John relies on podcasts and mentorship to inspire new ideas and solve business problems. He finds walking while listening to podcasts particularly helpful and leverages AI tools like ChatGPT, Bard, and Midjourney to streamline various tasks. The support of other startup founders has also been instrumental in his journey. 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 John. 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 - John can be found here: Resources: Tetragrammaton with Rick Rubin podcast - Canva - ChatGPT - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33916107

Episode #430 - Standing Out And Diversifying In A Busy Marketplace - with Charlotte Giddings from Brownie and the Bean 11/13/2024

Episode #430 - Standing Out And Diversifying In A Busy Marketplace - with Charlotte Giddings from Brownie and the Bean In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, host Kevin Brent speaks with Charlotte Giddings, founder of Brownie and the Bean, a business that started as a mobile café and has since grown into a multi-faceted company with a strong online presence. Charlotte takes us through her entrepreneurial journey, sharing the key decisions and challenges that have shaped the business since it launched in 2019. Episode Highlights: Business Evolution: Charlotte explains how Brownie and the Bean began as a mobile café in a horse trailer and pivoted during the pandemic to embrace e-commerce. They now operate across several revenue streams, including online sales, wholesale, and a thriving corporate gifting division, particularly strong during Q4, where sales increase fivefold. Scaling Challenges: From managing seasonal demand to dealing with skyrocketing ingredient costs (e.g., a 300% increase in cocoa prices), Charlotte discusses the pressures of scaling up. She also reveals the difficulties of transitioning from a hands-on founder to a team manager, alongside navigating cash flow and financing growth. Product and Brand Differentiation: One of the keys to Brownie and the Bean's success is their handcrafted, high-quality products, including brownies, blondies, and cakes for wholesale. They’ve built a strong following on social media, leveraging their personal brand story and behind-the-scenes content to connect with customers. Future Ambitions: Looking ahead, Charlotte plans to grow their corporate gifting line to smooth out seasonal fluctuations, participate in larger festivals like Glastonbury, and ultimately work towards selling the business in the next decade. 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 Charlotte! 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 - More on Brownie and the Bean They are a Suffolk based family business that started life just before the pandemic. They specialise in handcrafted cakes, baked with the finest ingredients (locally sourced wherever possible). Corporate gifting is their main area of expertise and they work with businesses in lots of different ways. They have a huge range of gift ideas on offer from individually wrapped branded brownies, to festive feasting grazing tables. Their brownies are also dispatched all over the UK in gift boxes (which can also be branded with your logo and festive message). You can find out more about their corporate gifting . Charlotte can be found here: /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33827582

Episode #429 - Thinking of The Micro, But Maintain Company Culture Across the Macro - with Abid Jafri 11/11/2024

Episode #429 - Thinking of The Micro, But Maintain Company Culture Across the Macro - with Abid Jafri In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent sits down with Abid Jafri, the Director of AJ Sports, a family-run business specialising in cricket and hockey equipment with stores in the UK and UAE. Founded by Abid’s father in the 1980s, AJ Sports has grown into a thriving retail business with a strong focus on community engagement and increasing sports participation at the grassroots level. Throughout the discussion, Abid shares his insights on the challenges of scaling a family business, particularly in managing people and leadership development. He emphasises the importance of quick decision-making, effective delegation, and maintaining company culture across multiple locations. A key part of AJ Sports’ success has been fostering transparency with staff by sharing financial information, which, as Abid highlights, can enhance employee motivation and understanding. Abid also touches on the significance of mentorship in business growth, rethinking the concept of work-life balance, and the strategic use of AI tools like ChatGPT and Canva to improve business efficiency. Key Highlights: AJ Sports operates multiple stores in the UAE and UK, with plans to increase its online sales to 15-20% over the next five years. Abid talks about the importance of leadership development and mentorship, particularly when it comes to scaling a business. One of the major challenges in growth has been people management, but setting clear performance metrics and quick decision-making has been key to overcoming these hurdles. AJ Sports prides itself on engaging with the local community to foster a love for sports, particularly cricket and hockey. 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 Abid. ========================= 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 - =================== Abid can be found here: Resources: Start With Why by Simon Sinek - Psychology Of Money by Jim Ware - Hard To Get Rich by Felix Dennis - Alchemy by Rory Sutherland - Audible - Chat GPT - Canva - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33817174

Episode #428 - Payment Pioneers: How To Revolutionise Micro-Business Payments - with Roman Loban 11/06/2024

Episode #428 - Payment Pioneers: How To Revolutionise Micro-Business Payments - with Roman Loban Welcome to another episode of ScaleUp Radio! I’m your host, Granger Forson. You can learn more about my journey and mission at or connect with me on LinkedIn (). Today, we dive into the inspiring entrepreneurial saga of Roman Loban, the dynamic founder behind two innovative fintech companies, Xiva and FMPay. Both businesses aim to reshape how micro-businesses handle their financial transactions, with a special focus on inclusivity and local community support in Cheltenham. In this episode, Roman shares how he bootstrapped his way to fintech innovation, starting with FMPay and later introducing Xiva, each complementing the other’s services. Roman’s approach to building a local yet expansive company—currently boasting about 30 staff members, with a core team in Cheltenham—illustrates his commitment to community and accessible business practices. We’ll explore the challenges he faced in recruitment, culture cultivation, and lead generation, and how these experiences shaped his business philosophy. Roman also discusses his future plans for FMPay and Xiva, focusing on expanding services and solidifying their status as the go-to payment providers for Southwest England. He shares valuable lessons on the importance of balancing technological advancement with human interaction, ensuring that every client feels connected and supported. Roman’s journey is not just about building successful businesses but also about empowering others, fostering a sense of ownership among his team, and maintaining a deep commitment to his vision despite the hurdles. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of technology, entrepreneurship, and community impact. 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, leadership, and community with Roman Loban. 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: 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 - Roman can be found here: Resources: Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink - Lex Fridman Podcast - Chat GPT - WhatsApp - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33683352

Episode #427 - Navigating Business, Rowing Oceans, and Giving Back – The Inspiring Journey of Corrine Amos 11/04/2024

Episode #427 - Navigating Business, Rowing Oceans, and Giving Back – The Inspiring Journey of Corrine Amos In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, host Kevin Brent sits down with the inspiring Corrine Amos, an entrepreneur with a passion for business, sustainability, and adventure. Corrine is the founder of two diverse businesses—Coco and Kiki, an ethical fashion brand, and Cut Loose London, a video production company. She also holds the remarkable achievement of rowing across the Atlantic Ocean as part of a winning all-female team. We explore Corrine's unique journey, from running two impactful businesses to surviving the physical and mental challenges of rowing 3,000 miles across the ocean. In her candid conversation, Corrine shares how her experience on the ocean deepened her understanding of resilience, teamwork, and overcoming obstacles, offering valuable lessons for her businesses and her entrepreneurial mindset. Coco and Kiki - An Ethical Fashion Brand Corrine’s ethical dungaree brand, Coco and Kiki, not only creates practical and stylish designs but also gives back to the makers in India. Profits from the business help fund social projects, including children's education, with a focus on creating sustainable fashion that benefits vulnerable communities. Cut Loose London - Video Production with a Purpose Starting from her background in film production, Corrine founded Cut Loose London, which works with high-profile clients like Nike and Ikea. Specialising in sustainable and ethical content, the business adapts to fluctuating demands by utilising freelancers, ensuring a flexible and successful business model. Rowing Across the Atlantic As part of a 4-woman team, Corrine rowed across the Atlantic Ocean in just over 42 days, winning the women’s category. The intense mental and physical challenge gave her a unique perspective on tackling business obstacles, teaching her the power of small wins, resilience, and perseverance. Whether you're looking for inspiration on building ethical businesses or seeking insights on mental resilience, Corrine’s story is packed with practical advice and motivational moments. 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 Corrine. Corrine can be found here: Resources: Secret Leaders Podcast - Grace Beverly Podcast - David Goggins Podcast - Wordpress - Shopify - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33681067

Episode #426 - Turning A Nickname Into A Brand That Reflects Your Approach - with David Murray-Hundley from Pario Ventures 10/30/2024

Episode #426 - Turning A Nickname Into A Brand That Reflects Your Approach - with David Murray-Hundley from Pario Ventures In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by David Murray-Hundley, better known as The Grumpy Entrepreneur. David brings his candid insights on entrepreneurship, investing, and the challenges of scaling businesses, particularly in the UK. With years of experience as a successful investor and entrepreneur, David has a wealth of knowledge to share about what it takes to grow a startup in today's climate. During the conversation, David reflects on the unique challenges within the UK startup ecosystem, especially when compared to the more growth-focused US. He stresses the importance of communication between founders and shareholders, as well as the need for founders to take personal financial risks to show their commitment. David also highlights the difficulties that many businesses face when transitioning from being founder-led to team-driven—a key phase in any scaleup journey. His investment firm, Pario Ventures, which he co-founded with Kevin Doyle, manages over $1 billion in assets and has invested in high-profile companies like Rivian and Bolt. His perspective as an investor further enriches the conversation, offering valuable advice for founders about how to position their businesses for long-term success, rather than focusing solely on rapid growth. Key Discussion Points: The Grumpy Entrepreneur Brand – Originating as a quirky nickname, this personal brand has evolved into a recognisable conversation starter and a reflection of David’s straightforward approach to business. Pario Ventures – The journey of David’s investment firm, from its founding in 2010 to its public launch in 2021, and the notable companies in its portfolio. Entrepreneurial Mindset – Why being a "maverick" and seeing opportunities where others see barriers is crucial for success in both startups and investments. Challenges in the UK Startup Ecosystem – David discusses why scaling up is tougher in the UK compared to the US, with lower valuations and a more risk-averse investor base. Advice for Investors – What to look for in startups: committed founders who have risked their own money and can demonstrate a clear path to profitability. Advice for Founders – Key considerations when taking investment, including the shift from founder-led to team-driven, and why communication and managing expectations are critical. David also touches on the current investment climate, with an improving UK market after a tough year, challenges facing the US market, and the impressive capital efficiency of African startups. 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 David. 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 - David can be found here: /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33581342

Episode #425 - Taking On The Challenge Of Empowering Team Leaders - with Jaipal Naidu from Perse Technology 10/28/2024

Episode #425 - Taking On The Challenge Of Empowering Team Leaders - with Jaipal Naidu from Perse Technology In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent sits down with Jaipal Naidu, the co-founder of Perse Technology, a company at the forefront of energy and carbon data infrastructure. They explore how Perse is enabling businesses to reduce costs and comply with regulatory requirements through access to critical energy and carbon data. Jaipal shares insights into Perse’s recent Series A funding round and their ambitious plans to scale into new sectors, including finance emissions and embodied carbon. He discusses the unique challenges that arise as a company scales, particularly when transitioning from founder-led operations to empowering team leaders, while maintaining a startup mentality. One standout element of Perse’s culture is the transparency they foster, allowing engineers to see the direct revenue impact of their work, which motivates the team and enhances accountability. Jaipal also delves into their growth strategy, leadership approach, and the continuous process of fundraising that keeps the business moving forward. Key Highlights: Business Model: Perse Technology provides organizations with democratized access to energy and carbon data, with revenue streams that include transaction fees, Software-as-a-Service, and per-transaction fees for carbon reporting. Achievements: To date, they’ve processed 185 gigawatts of energy, saved £4 million for customers, and helped avoid 100,000 tons of carbon emissions. Growth Strategy: With plans to scale from 27 to over 100 employees, Perse is targeting financial institutions and has set ambitious goals for the next three years, including 1,000 gigawatts of energy procured and £10 million in customer savings. Leadership Insights: Jaipal emphasises the importance of daily catch-ups with key team members and balancing operational tasks with strategic planning. Perse focuses on hiring individuals with the right attitude, excitement about the vision, and a strong problem-solving approach. Fundraising: Raising funds is a continuous effort, with the CEO spending up to 75% of his time on investment-related activities. The one key thing Jaipal leaves us with is that transparency and accountability are vital in driving motivation and success within the team—engineers can see the direct impact of their work on company revenue, which is a strong motivator for 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 Jaipal. 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 - Jaipal can be found here: Resources: Acquired podcast - Motion - Atlassian - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33580612

Episode #424 - How a structured approach to recruitment helps with growth - with Mark Crane from Evolution Risk Group 10/23/2024

Episode #424 - How a structured approach to recruitment helps with growth - with Mark Crane from Evolution Risk Group In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, host Kevin Brent sits down with Mark Crane, the founder of Evolution Risk Group and CEO of Coachd, to explore his entrepreneurial journey, dive deep into his sales strategies, and share insightful leadership lessons from his experience in building and scaling businesses. Mark is a dynamic leader who brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation, particularly around effective lead generation, hiring for startups, and leveraging technology to enhance business operations. Here are some key topics covered in the episode: Evolution Risk Group: Mark’s independent insurance brokerage, designed to disrupt traditional insurance practices by focusing on personalised service and client problem-solving. The business faced early challenges with recruitment but has since achieved steady growth. Coachd: A coaching business targeting mid to high-tier professionals seeking career, sales, and mindset coaching. Mark provides both one-on-one and group sessions, sharing how his coaching style empowers individuals to invest in their future success. Sales Strategy and Lead Generation: Mark shares his structured approach to lead generation, dedicating a minimum of 2 hours daily to calls and tracking outcomes meticulously. His goal is to have 60 meaningful conversations from every 100 calls, and he emphasises the power of persistence, follow-ups, and multi-channel engagement using LinkedIn, email, and WhatsApp. Recruitment and Team Building: As a startup leader, Mark explains how he shifted his recruitment focus from experience to cultural fit and attitude, partnering with specialist recruiters to find adaptable candidates willing to perform diverse tasks. He discusses the importance of using tools like Monday.com to track team efficiency and inform his hiring strategy. Leveraging Technology: Mark highlights the tools that drive efficiency in his businesses, from Dialpad’s call transcription and action point features to HubSpot’s CRM system, and the use of WhatsApp for nurturing prospects. These tools have been instrumental in streamlining operations and improving sales efforts. Personal Development: A strong advocate for self-improvement, Mark recommends The Chimp Paradox for mastering mindset and draws inspiration from sales experts like Andy Elliott and Grant Cardone. His 'no-excuses' mentality has been crucial to his success, both as a business leader and coach. 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. 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 - Mark can be found here: Resources: The Diary of a CEO - The Chimp Paradox by Prof Steve Peters - Never Split The Difference by Chris Voss - WhatsApp - Dialpad - HubSpot - Monday - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33498657

Episode #423 - Scaling a Sports Academy with Passion and Purpose - with Reece Elbourn of Let's Leap Sports Academy 10/21/2024

Episode #423 - Scaling a Sports Academy with Passion and Purpose - with Reece Elbourn of Let's Leap Sports Academy In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, we dive into the journey of Reece Elbourn, co-founder of Let's Leap Sports Academy, a business providing vital services like holiday camps, PE teachers, and wraparound care to schools across the UK. Since its inception in 2019, Let's Leap has grown from working with a single school to now partnering with over 30 schools nationally, employing more than 100 staff during peak periods. Reece takes us through the challenges of scaling a company in the education and sports industry, including: How they’ve built a rigorous hiring process to ensure quality staff and maintain a strong company culture. The importance of managing cash flow while constantly reinvesting in the business to fuel growth. The power of word-of-mouth marketing and delivering consistently excellent services, resulting in 10 successful Ofsted inspections and an award for outstanding services to children. Other key insights from Reece include how Let's Leap focuses on quality over quantity, maintaining a commitment to delivering unique, high-quality experiences for children, such as activities like jet skiing and go-karts, and ensuring the wellbeing of their staff through regular training and mentorship. Whether you're in the education sector or scaling your own business, Reece's insights on leadership, recruitment, and financial management will resonate with any entrepreneur. 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 Reece. 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, 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 - Reece can be found here: Resources: Gary Vee podcast - Patrick Bet David podcast - Diary of a CEO podcast - The CEO Cast - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33483147

Episode #422 - Networking and Referral Marketing in the Digital Age - with Mike Adams of IntroStars 10/16/2024

Episode #422 - Networking and Referral Marketing in the Digital Age - with Mike Adams of IntroStars In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, we dive into the evolving world of networking and referral marketing with Mike Adams, the founder of IntroStars. IntroStars is a unique platform connecting business founders and sales professionals with key connectors in their industry. Mike shares valuable insights on how networking is shifting from a selling-driven activity to one focused on building genuine relationships, and he explains how referral marketing is moving beyond customer introductions to incentivizing external referrals. We also explore Mike's experiences during the hypergrowth phase at Zoom and how it has shaped his approach to scaling a business. Some of the key highlights include: The Mindset of Networking: Mike emphasises the importance of shifting from a "selling" mentality to one of helping others. It's about building long-term relationships and offering value before expecting something in return. IntroStars Platform: This innovative two-sided marketplace allows businesses to seek introductions from trusted networkers, offering a reward (usually 10% of the deal size) for successful connections. The platform, which is currently being piloted in London, takes care of everything from tracking to payments. Referral Marketing Evolution: Mike discusses the shift towards incentivised referral programs and how companies can benefit from external referrals rather than relying solely on customer-based ones. Platforms like IntroStars make it easy to set up and manage these programs. Cold Outreach is Declining: With the growing importance of warm introductions, businesses need to rethink their marketing strategies. Content marketing and building relationships are becoming far more effective than cold outreach. Lessons from Zoom: Mike shares his experience at Zoom during its period of rapid growth, highlighting the challenges of scaling while maintaining company culture and operational efficiency. He explains how a mission-driven approach can fuel a company’s success. 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 Mike. 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 - Mike can be found here: Resources: The Superconnectors podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/3h5l58rLEnBi7Q3cF7lTmf /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33390762

Episode #421: Pouring a Greener Future: When in Rome Wine’s Mission for Sustainability - with Rob Malin 10/14/2024

Episode #421: Pouring a Greener Future: When in Rome Wine’s Mission for Sustainability - with Rob Malin Welcome to another inspiring episode of ScaleUp Radio! I’m Granger Forson, and in today’s episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Rob Malin, CEO of When in Rome Wine, a company that’s shaking up the wine industry in the most eco-friendly way possible. Rob takes us through the remarkable journey of When in Rome, a business born out of a passion for both great Italian wine and environmental sustainability. Starting from humble beginnings at a Bath farmers market, When in Rome has grown into a significant player, now selling its innovative, low-carbon footprint wines across major UK supermarkets and even on British Airways flights. The episode dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of growing a business committed to a clear mission: to decarbonize the wine industry by moving away from single-use glass bottles. Rob shares how they’ve embraced alternative packaging like cans, bag-in-box, and paper bottles to reduce their carbon footprint. He also opens up about the creative strategies they’ve employed to change consumer perceptions and build brand awareness on a limited budget. But it's not just about the wine. Rob passionately discusses the importance of company culture and how When in Rome's dedication to sustainability has been the driving force behind attracting the right talent and keeping the team motivated. With a small but mighty team of six, they’ve managed to scale the business while staying true to their core values. Join us as we explore how When in Rome is making a significant impact in an industry traditionally resistant to change. If you’re interested in sustainability, innovation, or just love a great entrepreneurial story, this episode is not to be missed! 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 vision, sustainability, and growth with Rob Malin. 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: 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 - Rob can be found here: Resources: Captain Corelli’s Mandolin by Louis de Bernieres - The Rest Is History podcast - Real Dictators podcast - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33389227

Episode #420: Efficiency, Automation, and the Four-Day Work Week: Insights from madeby Studio - with Sam Taylor & Matt Wheeler 10/09/2024

Episode #420: Efficiency, Automation, and the Four-Day Work Week: Insights from madeby Studio - with Sam Taylor & Matt Wheeler In this Q&A episode of ScaleUp Radio, Granger Forson sits down with Sam and Matt, the founders of Made by Studio, to discuss their inspiring journey towards implementing a four-day work week, without compromising on productivity or pay. They share their strategies for enhancing efficiency, building capacity, and managing waste within their business, all while maintaining a strong team culture. Key Takeaways: Data Tracking and Measurement: The importance of tracking and measuring data across all business elements. Sam and Matt emphasise that you can't improve what you don't measure. They started with time tracking on jobs and gradually expanded to include operations and financial management, using automation to gain quick insights into business performance. Capacity Building and Process Improvement: The team at Made by Studio has developed systems that free up time for creative work. By documenting business processes in a resource hub, they reduce knowledge bottlenecks, enabling team autonomy. Additionally, they implemented software like Dext for invoicing and created a proposal template that has dramatically reduced the time spent on administrative tasks. Four-Day Work Week Implementation: Two years ago, Made by Studio transitioned to a four-day work week while maintaining 100% pay for 80% time. They achieve this by setting clear expectations, maintaining regular team check-ins, and fostering a strong, collaborative work culture. Client Management and Scope Creep: The founders share their approach to managing client expectations, which includes setting clear project timelines and using signed proposals to manage scope creep. They frame their client relationships as long-term collaborations, ensuring a shared understanding and future project opportunities. Automation Tools and Techniques: Sam and Matt reveal how they've harnessed tools like make.com to automate many of their business processes. This includes integrating software tools for CRM, invoicing, and financial reporting, significantly reducing the time spent on manual tasks. 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 Sam and Matt. 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 - Sam & Matt can be found here: Matt Wheeler - Sam Taylor - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33295922

Episode #419: Leading by Example: How SupaFoot Is Walking the Talk on Values and Leadership - with Emma Price 10/07/2024

Episode #419: Leading by Example: How SupaFoot Is Walking the Talk on Values and Leadership - with Emma Price Hi, I’m Granger Forson, and you can find me at BizSmart Gloucestershire(www.bizsmart-gloucestershire.co.uk) or connect with me on LinkedIn(https://www.linkedin.com). In this exciting episode of ScaleUp Radio, we sit down with Emma Price, the dynamic founder of SupaFoot, a flourishing podiatry practice that’s taken a giant leap from a solo operation to a 9-person clinic over the past decade. Emma shares the inspiring story of how she was motivated by her mother’s career shift to start her own business, driven by a passion for helping people. SupaFoot has grown organically through an unwavering commitment to excellence and the power of personal referrals. Emma’s journey is a testament to the impact of living your business values, and her leadership style is all about going first – embracing vulnerability, promoting continuous improvement, and creating a culture where feedback and growth are the norms. As SupaFoot prepares to expand into a new 7-room clinic, Emma discusses her strategic vision for the future. With a keen eye on maintaining the family-like atmosphere that sets SupaFoot apart, Emma is planning for full capacity within five years, with potential franchise options on the horizon. Join us as we dive deep into Emma’s approach to recruitment, team development, and marketing in the niche field of podiatry. Whether you’re leading a business or looking to start one, Emma’s insights into overcoming challenges, staying true to your values, and leading by example will leave you inspired. 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 organic growth, values-driven leadership, and strategic expansion with Emma Price. 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: 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: Resources: Atomic Habits by James Clear - Dare To Lead by Brene Brown - Kitchen Table Wisdom by Rachel Naomi Remen - Michael Moseley Just One Thing Podcast - Beditations App - Fitbit - /episode/index/show/scaleupradio/id/33295192

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