Grow A Small Business Podcast
Troy Trewin
Our weekly 30 minute podcast helps you, a small business owner with 5 to 30 team members, take your company to the next level. The Grow A Small Business community, weekly cast, blog and leadership email supports leaders get through the pain of growth.
With insights, lessons learned, books and tools as well as habits these experienced small business owners suggest you develop, our interviews unearth tremendous value for anyone wanting to grow their business with less stress.
With insights, lessons learned, books and tools as well as habits these experienced small business owners suggest you develop, our interviews unearth tremendous value for anyone wanting to grow their business with less stress.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 5, 2024 • 23min
QFF: Mike Michalowicz of Profit First Professionals shares how to transform your small business finances, overcome debt, build sustainable profit, and achieve financial freedom with actionable insights for entrepreneurs. (Episode 601 - Mike Michalowicz)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Michael Denehey interviews Mike Michalowicz, author and keynote speaker, and discusses his revolutionary Profit First methodology. Highlighting the pitfalls of traditional profit models, Mike shares actionable insights on prioritizing profit to transform businesses and improve financial health. His approach is based on channeling behavior rather than discipline, offering solutions that resonate with small business owners globally. A standout success story involves a struggling horse farm in Australia, where adopting Profit First not only turned profitability around but also strengthened the owners' personal relationships. Other Resources: Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Prioritize Profit First: Flip the traditional profit formula from "Sales - Expenses = Profit" to "Sales - Profit = Expenses." By setting aside profit first, you ensure your business operates within its true financial means. Set Up a Profit Account: Create a dedicated bank account for profit. Even allocating just 1% of your revenue to this account builds the habit and ensures consistent profitability over time. Automate Cash Management: Use Parkinson's Law to your advantage by allocating funds into specific accounts (e.g., profit, owner's pay, taxes). Automation minimizes temptation and ensures disciplined cash flow management. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Reward Yourself as the Owner: Separate your wages for working in the business from profit, which is your reward for taking the risk of starting and running the business. Celebrate even small victories to stay motivated. Profitability Over Debt Dependency: Profitability is the key to eradicating debt. Allocate a portion of your profit to pay off debt while rewarding yourself with a small percentage to maintain morale. Start Small, Start Now: Don't wait for the perfect moment to implement change. Begin with small, manageable steps like opening a profit account and allocating a small percentage of revenue. Gradually scale up as you adjust to the system. One action small business owners can take: One action small business owners can take, according to Mike Michalowicz, is to set up a profit account and allocate at least 1% of every revenue deposit into that account. This simple step helps build the habit of prioritizing profit and ensures that, over time, your business will start to accumulate funds for growth and financial security. This action doesn't require changing your business operations but establishes a crucial financial discipline that can lead to long-term success. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Profit must be prioritized to achieve true financial freedom — Mike Michalowicz Your business exists to serve you, not the other way around — Mike Michalowicz Behavioral change, not discipline, is the key to lasting success — Mike Michalowicz

Dec 3, 2024 • 52min
Success at Waubs Harbour Distillery: Bec Polmear on Building a Profitable Maritime Whisky Brand, Using Ocean-Cooled Techniques, and Creating a Legacy with Authentic Tasmanian Flavors and Global Ambitions in 18 Months of Sales. (Episode 600 - Bec Polmear)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Bec Polmear, Co-Founder and Head of Creative at Waubs Harbour Whisky. Bec shares the remarkable story of Warbs Harbor Distillery, a premium Tasmanian whiskey brand. She discusses their journey to achieving profitability in their first year of sales, the innovative ocean-cooled techniques that define their maritime whiskey, and their exciting global expansion, including their first export to Japan. Discover the passion and dedication behind building a lasting legacy. Other Resources: Started with $1K, scaled 700% annually through early influencer marketing, and sold their tea business for $10M in under 3 years – (Episode 5 - Tim Polmear) Starting with $10K in 2004, losing it all, and nearly quitting, they now generate $27M annually with 55 team members selling fitness products – (Ben Crowley) Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Bec Polmear, one of the hardest things in growing a small business is managing decision fatigue. With countless decisions to make, from big-picture strategies to minor details, it can feel overwhelming. She emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision and brand direction to simplify decision-making and stay focused on what truly matters for the business's growth. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Bec Polmear's favorite business book is Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller. She finds it incredibly helpful for understanding brand positioning and crafting clear, compelling messaging that resonates with customers, which has significantly influenced her business approach. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Bec Polmear recommends podcasts as a key resource for growing a small business. Her favorites include Grow a Small Business, Drinks Adventures, How I Built This, and DTC Podcast. She also suggests subscribing to industry-specific email newsletters, such as those from The Spirits Business, to stay updated on trends and insights. These tools provide practical knowledge and inspiration for entrepreneurs. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Bec Polmear recommends using Instagram Insights as a valuable tool for growing a small business. It helps track the performance of content, identify what resonates most with the audience, and refine messaging to build a loyal and engaged community. This focus on authentic, impactful storytelling has been instrumental in driving her business growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Bec Polmear advises that on day one of starting a business, you should ask yourself: "What is my honest motivation for doing this?" She stresses the importance of ensuring that your business fulfills a genuine need, whether it's for financial success or a passion project. By being clear about your motivation and whether your product or service can meet that goal, you're more likely to stay committed through the challenges and avoid giving up when things get tough. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success isn't just about profits; it's about building something you're proud of — Bec Polmear Stay authentic in your storytelling, and your community will find you — Bec Polmear Business is about creating value, not just making money — Bec Polmear

Dec 1, 2024 • 17min
Andrew Sendejo on BrainTree Nutrition: From NFL Pro to Entrepreneur – Bootstrapping Success, Growing a Team from 3 to 15, and Creating Science-Backed Supplements to Enhance Cognitive Function, Well-Being, and Brand Growth. (Episode 599 - Andrew Sendejo)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Andrew Sendejo, former NFL player and founder of BrainTree Nutrition, shares his journey from sports to entrepreneurship. He discusses bootstrapping his business, growing his team from 3 to 15, and developing science-backed brain health supplements. Andrew highlights the challenges of transitioning from a pro athlete to a business owner and the importance of building brand awareness. He also shares insights on maintaining resilience through the ups and downs of small business growth. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Andrew Sendejo, the hardest thing in growing a small business, especially when bootstrapped, is staying consistent and resilient through the ups and downs. He emphasizes not letting setbacks shut you down and maintaining perseverance despite challenges. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Andrew Sendejo's favorite business book that has helped him the most is The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss. He appreciated the foundational concepts from the book, which have stuck with him over time, particularly in terms of efficiency and business strategies. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Andrew Sendejo recommends the Huberman Lab Podcast, which focuses on neuroscience, longevity, and brain science, offering tips on improving focus, productivity, and overall well-being. He also uses audiobooks that summarize key business books, covering topics like marketing, branding, and e-commerce strategies. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Andrew Sendejo recommends developing a strong mindset as a key resource for growing a small business. He stresses the importance of perseverance, staying consistent, and not getting discouraged by setbacks. Additionally, he values advice from mentors, consultants, and advisors to help guide decisions and strategies. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Andrew Sendejo advises himself on day one of starting a business to be confident. He reflects on his sports career, where he lacked confidence early on, and believes that if he had known his future success, he would have played with more confidence. He encourages others to have the same mindset in business—believing in their abilities and trusting that they have what it takes to succeed. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Stay consistent and resilient through the ups and downs, and never let setbacks shut you down — Andrew Sendejo Success in business comes from doing the small, seemingly trivial things consistently over time — Andrew Sendejo Confidence is key — believe in your ability to succeed, even when you're starting from scratch — Andrew Sendejo

Nov 28, 2024 • 26min
QFF: Creating Memorable Customer Experiences with Joey Coleman: Overcoming Buyer's Remorse, Retaining Clients, and Building a Referral-Driven Business Through Exceptional First Impressions. (Episode 598 - Joey Coleman)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday host Michael Denehey interviews Joey Coleman, Chief Experience Composer at Design Symphony, shares his insights on turning customer experiences into long-term business success. He dives into strategies for reducing buyer's remorse and increasing customer retention. Joey emphasizes the importance of creating memorable first impressions and cultivating loyal relationships. He also highlights how businesses can leverage referrals as a powerful growth tool. With his expertise in customer experience, Joey provides actionable tips for any business looking to stand out in a competitive market. Joey Coleman gives insights from his book "Never Lose a Customer Again: Turn Any Sale into Lifelong Loyalty in 100 Days By Joey Coleman", revealing powerful strategies to turn new customers into passionate, lifelong advocates. He shares actionable insights on creating unforgettable experiences that reduce churn and build lasting loyalty. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Focus on The First 100 Days®: Joey emphasizes the importance of the initial 100 days of a customer's journey. By making this time memorable, businesses can establish long-term loyalty and prevent customer churn. Craft Personalized Experiences: Personalization is key to making customers feel valued. Tailoring experiences based on their preferences and feedback strengthens the emotional connection to your brand. Proactive Customer Communication: Joey stresses that proactively reaching out and anticipating customer needs can help prevent problems before they arise, improving the overall experience. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Turn Problems into Opportunities: Mistakes and challenges are inevitable, but how you handle them is critical. Addressing customer issues quickly and thoughtfully can increase trust and loyalty. Delivering Consistency in Service: Consistency across all interactions is crucial. Customers need to know they will receive the same high-quality experience each time they engage with your brand. Create a Customer-Centric Culture: Ensuring that your entire team is committed to delivering exceptional experiences will foster an environment where customer success is the priority, not just customer satisfaction. One action small business owners can take: One small action Joey Coleman suggests for business owners is to create a simple, personalized welcome experience for new customers. This could be as easy as sending a thoughtful thank-you note or a personalized email after the first purchase. It's a small gesture that can go a long way in building a lasting relationship and making customers feel valued from the start. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximise your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: The key to building loyalty is not just making a sale, but creating an unforgettable experience that keeps customers coming back — Joey Coleman Great businesses don't just win customers — they turn them into lifelong advocates — Joey Coleman The First 100 Days are critical in shaping how a customer will feel about your business forever — Joey Coleman

Nov 26, 2024 • 1h 10min
Scaling Success with Digital Surfer: Pete & Renee on Growing a $1.3M Business, Mastering Quick Recovery, Achieving Work-Life Balance, and Leading a Skilled Team Through 12 Years in the Dynamic Digital Marketing World. (Episode 597 – Pete and Renee Curra
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Peter Curran and Renee Curran, founders of Digital Surfer, share their journey of building a $1.3M digital marketing business. They discuss the importance of work-life balance, quick recovery strategies, and the lessons learned from over 12 years in the industry. With a focus on leadership and team development, they highlight how investing in personal growth and embracing change has shaped their success. Tune in for insights on mastering business growth in a fast-paced digital world. Other Resources: Matt Raad, co-founder of e-Business Institute Australia, shares three decades of expertise and strategies to help elevate your business to new heights. (Episode 453) Liz Raad reveals the secrets to unlocking angel investment and accelerating businesses to million-dollar success through innovative online training. (Episode 457) Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Pete and Renee Curran believe the hardest thing in growing a small business is managing cash flow and profitability. They stress the importance of understanding financials early on, particularly break-even points, and making quick decisions about which activities are truly profitable. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Pete and Renee Curran's favorite business book that has helped them the most is "Profit First" by Mike Michalowicz. They believe this mindset shift of prioritizing profit over expenses has been invaluable for their business growth. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Pete and Renee Curran recommend listening to a variety of podcasts focused on business growth, self-development, and industry-specific topics. They enjoy podcasts related to management, self-improvement, SEO, digital marketing, and business success stories. They also mention podcasts like Matt and Lisa's, as well as those that focus on self-development and how to be the best version of yourself. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Pete and Renee Curran recommend using Xero for managing business finances, as it helps track numbers and provides detailed insights into your business's financial health. They also mention the importance of having a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system, such as Go High Level, to manage customer funnels, automate reminders, and streamline quotes, which can significantly aid in managing customer relationships and business growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Pete and Renee Curran's advice to themselves on day one of starting out in business would be "speed to market". Pete emphasizes the importance of not waiting for perfection and launching quickly, as market feedback will reveal what works and what doesn't. Renee, on the other hand, highlights the importance of "speed recovery" – being able to quickly bounce back from setbacks, learn from mistakes, and move forward without holding grudges. Both stress the need for agility and resilience in business. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Sustainable success comes from balancing ambition with resilience — Pete Curran Trust your vision, but let data guide your decisions — Renee Curran Strong teams build strong businesses — invest in your people — Renee Curran Consistency beats brilliance—show up and deliver every day — Pete Curran

Nov 24, 2024 • 46min
Founder of Arete Executive: From 2 to 14 Team Members, Scaling with Smart Hiring Strategies, Navigating Partnerships, and Helping Businesses Thrive by Building Strong Teams for Success in Both Small and Large Enterprises. (Episode 596 - Richard Triggs)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Richard Triggs, founder of Arete Executive, discusses his journey of scaling his business from just two to fourteen team members. He shares key strategies for effective hiring, managing partnerships, and supporting businesses of all sizes. Richard also talks about the challenges and rewards of building a strong, dynamic team. Tune in to hear his insights on navigating growth and success in the business world. Other Resources: Winning the War for Talent: How to attract and retain top performers Uncover the Hidden Job Market: how to find and win your next senior executive role Arete Podcast with Richard Triggs Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Richard Triggs emphasizes that hiring the right people is one of the toughest challenges in growing a small business. Aligning hires with company culture, skills, and goals is critical, as poor team selection can have lasting consequences. He highlights the importance of a careful hiring process to scale effectively while balancing growth with operational needs. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Richard Triggs' favorite business book that has helped him the most is Good to Great by Jim Collins. This book provides valuable insights into what differentiates successful companies from their peers and has been influential in shaping his business strategies. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Richard Triggs recommends leveraging podcasts and online learning resources that focus on leadership, recruitment, and business strategy to grow a small business. In his insights, he highlights the importance of continuous learning and suggests exploring programs that delve into effective hiring practices and building high-performing teams. While specific titles aren't mentioned, he encourages entrepreneurs to seek resources that align with their business challenges and growth aspirations. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Richard Triggs emphasizes the importance of tools and resources that streamline recruitment and team management to grow a small business effectively. He recommends leveraging applicant tracking systems (ATS) to optimize hiring processes and ensure the right cultural and skill fit for the business. Additionally, he advocates for using leadership development programs and engaging with experienced mentors or coaches to enhance team performance and business strategy. These tools and resources, he suggests, are key to building a sustainable and high-performing business. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Richard Triggs would advise his day-one self to focus on the importance of hiring the right people who align with the company's values and culture. He would stress the value of strategic planning, understanding market needs, and being adaptable to change. Triggs also emphasizes seeking mentorship and building a strong network early on, as these relationships can provide guidance and open new opportunities. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: The right team can transform your business from good to great — Richard Triggs Scaling isn't about growth alone; it's about sustainable growth with the right team — Richard Triggs Hiring the right people is the most important investment you'll ever make — Richard Triggs

Nov 21, 2024 • 21min
QFF: Rachel Burr of Catammentum Shares Her Success Strategies: Leveraging 20+ Years of Experience in Leadership, Revenue Growth, and Delegation to Drive Small Business Growth and Build High-Performing, Aligned Teams. (Episode 595 - Rachel Burr)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Rob Cameron interviews Rachel Burr, founder of Catammentum, shares insights from her 20+ years of experience on how small business owners can lead for growth. She discusses the power of effective delegation, setting clear expectations, and building trust within teams. Rachel offers practical tips on scaling through leadership, boosting team alignment, and fostering a high-performance culture. Tune in to learn strategies to enhance your business's success and streamline team management. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: The Art of Delegation: Effective delegation is vital for scaling a business. Leaders should set clear expectations and trust their team to carry out the "how" while they focus on the "what." Building Trust and Alignment: Trust is foundational, but leaders must also verify and align regularly to ensure goals are being met and values are upheld. Clarity in Communication: Setting precise expectations, even down to the details, helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures that tasks are completed as envisioned. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Self-Awareness in Leadership: Watching recordings of yourself in action can reveal unconscious behaviors that may impact team morale and performance. Encouraging Team Feedback: Regular one-on-ones with team members help maintain alignment, allowing leaders to stay connected with their team's progress and challenges. Continuous Improvement: Business growth involves constant self-improvement. Leaders should seek feedback, learn from experiences, and adjust to ensure ongoing success. One action small business owners can take: One actionable step Rachel Burr recommends for small business owners is to schedule regular one-on-one meetings with team members. This practice builds alignment, strengthens trust, and provides clarity, helping both leaders and employees stay focused on shared goals. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Delegation isn't just letting go; it's empowering growth through trust — Rachel Burr Seeing yourself from the outside is often the key to real improvement — Rachel Bur Growth demands more than vision—it requires aligned action from the entire team — Rachel Burr

Nov 20, 2024 • 23min
Alf The Label's Meteoric Rise from Passion Project to Multi-Million Dollar Global Brand: Founder Sophie Doyle Shares Growth Secrets, Overcoming Cash Flow Challenges, and the Transformative Power of Resilience. (Episode 594 - Sophie Doyle)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Sophie Doyle, the founder of Alf The Label, shares her inspiring entrepreneurial journey. She candidly discusses the rapid growth of her brand, from a small side hustle to a multi-million dollar global e-commerce powerhouse. Sophie delves into the importance of profitability, managing cash flow challenges, and building a resilient mindset - key factors that have driven Alf The Label's remarkable success. Her insights on hiring the right team, leveraging data, and maintaining work-life balance offer valuable lessons for any small business owner looking to scale their venture. Other Resources: The Ultimate Recruitment Toolkit Online Short Course The Marketing Funding Flywheel Ebook Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: 1 .What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business?Sophie believes that the hardest thing in growing a small business is the need to persevere, even when faced with challenges. She emphasizes the importance of continuing to push forward each day, despite feelings of fatigue or doubt, as there is no one else to rely on for the business's success. This constant demand for resilience is a key aspect of the small business journey. 2 .What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most?Sophie's favorite business book that has helped her the most is "Traction" by Gino Wickman. She found the book to be full of valuable insights that have positively influenced her approach to managing and growing her business. 3. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business?Sophie recommends exploring various podcasts that are often suggested by others or shared on social media. She appreciates listening to episodes featuring guests she follows. Additionally, she values being part of an amazing coaching group that provides networking opportunities with other brands at a similar stage in their business journey, which she finds immensely helpful for her professional development. 4 .What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business?Sophie recommends utilizing AI as a valuable tool for growing a small business. She emphasizes that while AI doesn't replace human creativity, it can serve as a helpful resource for generating ideas and concepts, particularly in marketing. By inputting data and questions into AI, small business owners can expedite their processes and gain insights without needing additional personnel. 5 .What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business?Sophie advises her past self to "just keep going" and assures that the journey will be worthwhile. She emphasizes the importance of perseverance, especially on challenging days, reminding herself that persistence will lead to success over time. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: It's incredible to realize that anything is possible when you're passionate and determined — Sophie Doyle Hiring should never be rushed; finding the right people can make or break your business — Sophie Doyle Every day brings new challenges, but it's those challenges that fuel our growth and innovation — Sophie Doyle

Nov 17, 2024 • 28min
From 1 to 15: Brad Riley of Infostatus Shares the Journey of Growth and Team Expansion, Highlighting Valuable Lessons Learned Over 11 Years—Discover How Collaboration and Learning from Others Fueled Their $3M Revenue Success. (Episode 593 - Brad Riley)
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Brad Riley, the founder of Infostatus, shares his incredible journey from starting with just one team member to now leading a thriving team of 15. He discusses the importance of perseverance through challenges and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Brad emphasizes leveraging online resources and learning from the experiences of others in the industry. Tune in to discover how Infostatus achieved remarkable growth and generated $3 million in revenue over the past 11 years. Other Resources: NPS – An easy way to measure if your customers love you in 21 minutes – use the Net Promoter Score (NPS). And it's FREE. Productivity increases 7%-23%, team engagement up threefold and retention from 5.4 to 9.4 years – why wouldn't you consider an ESOP, Employee Share Ownership Plan. ESOP Subject Matter Expert talks other benefits, costs and time (Craig West) Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Brad Riley identifies that the hardest thing in growing a small business is navigating through tough times and maintaining perseverance. He emphasizes that challenges can take many forms, and what seems tough today may look different in the future. He believes that understanding and learning from both successes and failures, as well as leveraging resources and insights from others, is crucial to overcoming these hurdles and achieving sustainable growth. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Brad Riley mentioned Annie Duke as a significant influence. Known for her work on decision-making under uncertainty, her insights have likely impacted Brad's approach to managing challenges and strategizing in his business. Annie Duke's books, such as Thinking in Bets, emphasize critical thinking and probabilistic decision-making, which are highly relevant for navigating complex business environments. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Brad Riley emphasized leveraging the internet to learn from others' journeys. While he didn't recommend specific resources, general suggestions include the podcasts "How I Built This," "The Tim Ferriss Show," and "Smart Passive Income," along with online courses from platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy. You can also explore YouTube channels such as Gary Vaynerchuk and Stanford Graduate School of Business for valuable insights. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Brad Riley recommends using online learning platforms to build skills, leveraging social media for networking and marketing, and utilizing project management tools like Trello or Asana to streamline team collaboration. Additionally, analytics tools such as Google Analytics can drive data-informed decisions. These resources collectively support efficient growth and operational scaling for small businesses. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Brad Riley advises his day-one self to stay resilient, reassuring that "it's okay, you'll be okay." He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, noting that tough times are part of the journey and that the challenges faced today will look different down the road. His key message: hang in there and trust that things will work out. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Perseverance is the secret ingredient that transforms tough times into success — Brad Riley Learning from others' experiences can fast-track your own growth — Brad Riley Hang in there; today's challenges are shaping tomorrow's victories — Brad Riley

Nov 14, 2024 • 17min
QFF: Maximize Your Executive Assistant's Impact with Monique Helstrom: Discover Proven Strategies to Boost Business Growth and Efficiency, Transforming Your Small Business into a Powerhouse with Expert Coaching. (Episode 592 - Monique Helstrom)
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday host Rob Cameron interviews Monique Helstrom from Monique Helstrom Coaching shares her expertise on leveraging executive assistants to enhance business efficiency and growth. Discover practical strategies for building a strong working relationship and maximizing your team's potential. Monique emphasizes the importance of tailored coaching for small businesses, enabling leaders to focus on their core strengths while empowering their EAs. Join us for valuable insights that can transform your approach to productivity and success! Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Maximize Your Executive Assistant's Potential: Invest time in understanding how to leverage your Executive Assistant (EA) effectively. A well-coached EA can significantly enhance your productivity, allowing you to focus on strategic tasks that drive business growth. Prioritize Relationship Building: Strengthening the relationship with your EA can lead to improved collaboration and efficiency. Regular check-ins and open communication help align your goals and expectations, fostering a more productive partnership. Embrace Continuous Improvement: Even if you already have an EA, there's always room for growth. Seek coaching to identify new strategies and areas for development, ensuring that both you and your EA evolve together as your business needs change. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Delegate to Elevate: Recognize that you cannot do everything alone. Delegating tasks to your EA not only frees up your time for high-priority work but also empowers your assistant, contributing to their professional growth and satisfaction. Be Open to Learning: Whether through coaching or personal reflection, remain open to learning. This mindset will enable you to adapt and refine your management style, ultimately leading to better outcomes for your business and team. Focus on Being Your Best Self: As a small business owner, it's crucial to prioritize your well-being. By optimizing your support systems, including EAs, you can avoid burnout and ensure that you are bringing your best self to your business every day. One action small business owners can take: One action small business owners can take, as highlighted by Monique Helstrom, is to invest time in training and developing their Executive Assistants (EAs). By providing resources, guidance, and mentorship, business owners can empower their EAs to take on more responsibilities and contribute to the strategic goals of the business, ultimately enhancing productivity and creating a more effective partnership. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximise your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: You can't do it all, but you can be the best version of yourself — Monique Helstrom Investing in your team's growth leads to greater success for your business — Monique Helstrom Building a strong relationship with your assistant is key to maximizing your time and impact — Monique Helstrom


