The ups and downs of a small business owner

Driven finance professional Adam Cooper grapples with the shifting value of money, as he strives to prioritize time and relationships over material wealth in a world focused on financial success.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Gain strategic financial insights for your small or medium-sized business with fractional CFO services.

• Navigate the challenges of merging personal and business relationships with expert advice.

• Learn valuable lessons from failures in the finance industry to avoid common pitfalls.

• Discover the profound impact of AI on the finance industry and how it's reshaping the landscape.

• Explore the shifting perceptions of money and wealth, and how they can influence your business decisions.

My special guest is Adam Cooper

Adam Cooper, a fractional CFO at ACC Finance Solutions, brings over two decades of experience as a finance director in the corporate world. His expertise lies in providing part-time CFO and finance director services to small and medium-sized businesses, assisting them with finance strategies, fundraising, and cash flow management. With a background in education and a penchant for numbers, Adam's journey from teaching to finance reflects a unique perspective, making him a valuable guest to delve into the shifting perceptions of money and wealth, offering insights that resonate with small business owners seeking financial guidance.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Fractional CFO
00:05:32 - Career Journey and Passion Discovery
00:08:30 - Transition to Self-Employment
00:11:14 - Work-Life Balance and Family Support
00:12:12 - Importance of Network and Mentors
00:13:53 - Benefits of Networking and Helping Others
00:14:49 - Learning from Family Business Experience
00:15:56 - Balancing Personal and Business with a Spouse
00:19:40 - Embracing Failures and Learning from Them
00:22:40 - Navigating High-Pressure Situations and Achieving Success
00:28:40 - Overcoming Financial Challenges
00:30:23 - The Importance of Vision and Passion
00:32:37 - The Role of Finance in Business
00:34:15 - The Importance of Budgets and Forecasts
00:39:08 - Future Goals and Impact of AI
00:42:34 - Impact of AI on Finance Industry
00:43:27 - The Role of Finance Professionals
00:45:54 - Reconciliation with Family
00:47:45 - Changing Perceptions of Money
00:49:14 - Finding Contentment

An inspiring entrepreneur invests in his belief, empowers his employees, and challenges the status quo to create a successful business that makes a positive impact on the world.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Learn how to start a business that makes a positive impact in your community and beyond.

• Discover the importance of continuous learning and improvement in the success of your small business.

• Explore the unique challenges and benefits of maintaining sobriety as an entrepreneur, and how it can positively impact your business and personal life.

• Find out how to balance financial stability with giving back, and create a business that makes a difference in the world.

• Understand the value of selflessness in entrepreneurship and how it can lead to greater success and fulfillment in your business endeavors.

My special guest is James Marshall

James Marshall is our guest today, a Northern entrepreneur with a passion for making a positive impact. With a decade of entrepreneurial experience under his belt, James knows what it takes to start and grow a successful business. His journey began with a realization during a visit to an orphanage in India, where he felt a deep desire to create meaningful change in the world. This moment sparked his decision to leave his corporate job and start his own business, driven by a mission to provide young adults with the best possible start in life and support them in their career development. James's down-to-earth approach and commitment to making a difference make him an inspiring guest for aspiring small business owners who want to create successful businesses that have a positive impact.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:00:32 - Being an Entrepreneur
00:02:28 - Starting a Business
00:03:50 - The Moment of Decision
00:06:18 - Finding Your Why
00:14:23 - The Importance of Sales in Business Growth
00:16:28 - Giving Back to Charitable Organizations
00:18:07 - Supporting Career Growth and Development
00:19:30 - Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Others
00:27:27 - Helping and Supporting Others
00:29:06 - Making an Impact in Business
00:30:29 - Changing Lives
00:32:06 - The Power of Being an Entrepreneur
00:35:03 - Accountability and Legacy
00:41:52 - Investing in the Organization
00:42:35 - Supporting Employees' Growth
00:45:19 - Defining Happiness
00:46:09 - Evolving Mindset and Happiness
00:49:32 - Wrapping Up

Do you want to master the art of balancing your work and personal life while still achieving long-term success for your small business? Are you ready to prioritize your relationships and self-care to ensure a thriving business and a fulfilling personal life? Look no further, because our guest, Rachel Harris, is here to share the ultimate solution for achieving this elusive result. By implementing her proven strategies, you can unlock the key to maintaining harmonious relationships, nurturing your well-being, and securing the long-term success of your small business.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Prioritize self-care for long-term success.

• Build strong relationships for business growth.

• Achieve work-life balance for sustainable entrepreneurship.

• Reflect on achievements for continued motivation.

• Gain insights on AAT qualification and industry perceptions.

My special guest is Rachel Harris

Rachel Harris, the owner of striveX Accountants and an AAT trustee, is a prominent figure in the accounting industry. With a reputation as a disruptor, Rachel is challenging traditional notions of what it means to be an accountant. Through her extensive content creation on various platforms, she aims to provide free and accessible educational resources for those in need. Rachel's journey as a carer for her disabled identical twin sister has greatly influenced her approach to business, emphasizing the importance of nurturing and creating a safe space for clients. Her personal experiences as a free school meal child and a charity shop kid have fueled her drive to achieve financial security and help others do the same. Rachel's success in growing her business from zero to a million pounds in less than three years is a testament to her hard work and determination. With her expertise, innovative ideas, and dedication to client satisfaction, Rachel is making a significant impact in the accounting industry.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:00:42 - What is a disruptor?
00:01:23 - Early Life and Caring for her Twin Sister
00:03:17 - Childhood Dreams and Becoming an Accountant
00:07:37 - Going Solo and the MBA
00:13:49 - Importance of Listening and Handling Complaints
00:15:05 - The Importance of Supportive People
00:17:21 - Disagreements and Communication with James
00:18:55 - Work-Life Integration
00:20:53 - Failure and Prioritizing Self
00:27:34 - Opening doors for AAT education
00:28:54 - Extending impact through philanthropy
00:30:03 - Corporate bursary scheme
00:30:32 - Evaluating the success of the business
00:32:25 - Overcoming challenges with hearing loss
00:41:40 - The Importance of Accessibility and Monetizing Problems
00:42:17 - ACCA vs. AAT
00:43:53 - The Value of AAT
00:45:52 - Balancing Personal Branding and Bad Days
00:49:01 - Building the striveX Family
00:51:18 - Legacy and Changing Lives
00:55:46 - The Importance of Reflection
00:56:15 - Visualizing Success
00:56:37 - Lack of Celebration

In a world full of dreams and aspirations, Tanya Gordon's journey as a small business owner took an unexpected turn. A twist of fate redirected her path from owning a pub to becoming the owner of her father's engraving company. But little did she know, this detour would lead her to a profound realization about work-life balance. Join us as we unravel Tanya's story, where the pursuit of her dreams collided with the demands of family, leaving her on a precipice of choices, with an uncertain future looming ahead.

In this episode, you will be able to:

My special guest is

Tanya Gordon, the owner of The Many Hats of Business and Total Industrial Graving Limited, joins host David in this episode. Tanya describes herself as fun and sensible, a loyal worker with a passion for business. Starting her journey with the dream of owning her own pub, Tanya quickly realized that the work-life balance wouldn't align with her future goals of having a family. Joining her father's engraving company at 19, Tanya took over the business and implemented innovative strategies like SEO and blog writing to generate organic leads. With her determination and business-minded approach, Tanya successfully grew the business and navigated the challenges of balancing work and family responsibilities. Tune in to hear Tanya's insights and experiences as a small business owner striving for that elusive work-life balance.

In a world where corporate constraints suffocated her authenticity, Sam embarked on a journey that would change her life forever. From the invigorating wilderness of Scouting to the lonely landscape of finance, she discovered an unexpected twist that would shape her destiny. It was the dire need for authenticity in business that fueled her rebellion against the status quo. Now, as she took flight with her own venture, Simplicity, the question remained: Would her authenticity be the key to success or her downfall?

My special guest is Sam

Stepping into the spotlight today, we introduce you to Sam Bradford. From an energy-infused child, always looking to take on more, to a highly experienced financial advisor with over two decades of experience, Sam has always been unstoppable. Her love for the outdoors and natural inclination for leadership were nurtured over her 20-year stint as a Scout leader. Now, as the founder of Simplicity Financial Planning, she takes her lessons from running a cub pack of 40, investing them into her dedication to helping small businesses and reinforcing the importance of being true to one's brand ethos.

There's always that why would you want to look after other people's children? Don't you feel that you've got such a responsibility? And I guess the love of teaching someone or a young person new skills overrides the fear of what if it went wrong.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Learn how staying true to oneself can amplify business growth.

• Explore the pivotal role of openness and emotional honesty in entrepreneurial success.

• Appreciate the essence of teamwork and community spirit in facilitating small business success.

• Expose yourself to the vital importance of finding a good work-life balance as a business owner.

• Gain insight on the importance of not only understanding but also addressing client needs beyond the financial sphere.

Role of Vulnerability
Vulnerability in business is about embracing challenges, admitting mistakes, and showing openness. Though often perceived as a weakness, vulnerability can actually be a strength for entrepreneurs as it encourages genuine connection, fosters growth, and cultivates resilience. By embracing vulnerability, entrepreneurs can show their human side, thereby building trust and strengthening relationships with clients and team members.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit Simplicity Financial Planning's website to learn more about their services and how they can help you with your financial planning needs.

• Contact Sam Bradford directly through the website or by phone to schedule a consultation and discuss your specific financial goals.

• Follow Simplicity Financial Planning on social media platforms such as Facebook and LinkedIn to stay updated on their latest news, tips, and insights.

• Explore the outdoor activities and hobbies mentioned by Sam, such as foraging, making tinctures, growing vegetables, and raising chickens, to add more simplicity and fulfilment to your life.

• Consider joining a local scouting group or outdoor organization to experience the joys of being outdoors and develop valuable leadership and management skills.

• Learn more about the art of campanology (bell ringing) and how you can get involved in your local church or community.

• Reflect on your own career and assess if your current environment and culture align with your values and goals. If not, explore the possibility of starting your own venture or seeking opportunities that allow you to be true to yourself.

• Research and attend events or courses that focus on personal and professional development, specifically tailored to women in various industries, to gain valuable insights and perspectives.

In a world driven by technology, it's easy to overlook the power of genuine human connection. But for one man, Steve Lloyd, the unexpected twist of fate that propelled him into the world of exhibitions ignited a fire within him. From humble beginnings, Steve discovered the true value of face-to-face interactions, a secret ingredient that would transform his business and his life. And now, as he stands at the precipice of success, his story begs the question: Can a single conversation change your destiny? Stay tuned to find out.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Grasp the necessity of in-depth preparation and strategic planning for maximizing success in the exhibition industry.

• Unlock the intriguing narrative of Steve's growth from a telesales executive to a successful business owner, packed with actionable insights.

• Analyze the reshaping of the exhibition industry, triggered by the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, and how to navigate these changes.

• Acknowledge the power of face-to-face networking in exhibitions for attaining better client engagement.

• Be inspired by Steve's dedication to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit, illustrating the transformative potential of mentorship.

My special guest is Steve Lloyd

Introducing Steve Lloyd, a charismatic exhibition master with a love for direct, human interactions. Beginning his career journey in varied fields, Steve finally found his calling in the world of exhibitions. His unique way of working lays emphasis on the power of face-to-face interactions, and the potential they hold for steering businesses towards growth and success. Alongside his professional pursuits, Steve is a family man and a musician, sources of relaxation and inspiration in his busy life.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction,
00:00:37 - Passion for Exhibitions,
00:03:15 - Getting into Exhibitions,
00:06:36 - Overcoming Nervousness,
00:09:22 - Career Journey,
00:14:03 - Finding Alignment in Career Choices,
00:15:34 - Discovering Skills and Niche in Exhibitions,
00:17:39 - Navigating Challenges During COVID,
00:20:28 - Return of Face-to-Face Events,
00:24:46 - Overcoming Hesitation and Fear,
00:28:56 - Finding a Niche in Exhibition Mastery,
00:30:01 - The Challenges of Expanding to Larger Exhibitions,
00:32:25 - Stand Success is More Than a Physical Stand,
00:33:27 - The Champagne Fire Truck Stand,
00:37:50 - The Eclectics Band and the Joy of Live Music,
00:43:01 - Dealing with Normality,
00:43:23 - Future Plans,
00:45:03 - Expanding Internationally,
00:46:24 - Challenges and Recovery,
00:47:31 - Personal Goals,

In the depths of exhaustion, David faced the gruelling test of early parenthood - juggling work and the ceaseless demands of his newborn. Sleep became a distant memory, as he struggled to function as an adult on empty reserves. But then, a glimmer of hope emerged with the arrival of Christmas, bringing an unexpected twist that changed everything. Find out how David and his baby found solace in sleep, transforming their lives in ways they never anticipated. Stay tuned as we delve into their journey of resilience, adaptation, and the surprising turn that awaits.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Unlock the secrets of mastering the demanding double role of working and parenting in a new baby's crucial early months.

• Decode the benefits of delegating trustfully to your team and the subsequent enhancement of their efficiencies.

• See the inherent value in adopting an organized approach to sales for unstoppable business growth.

• Learn to anticipate potential threats from smaller team structures and develop strategies to avoid business disruption.

• Appreciate the undeniable importance of technology and team collaboration for boosting business performance.

My special guest is David

Meet David Addison, a man who wears the hats of being a successful entrepreneur and a new father. In the early months of diving into parenthood, David soon found that balancing the demands of his blossoming business with the care of his little bundle of joy brought its unique set of challenges. From functioning on minimum amounts of sleep to navigating the first few milestones of his baby’s life, David's journey is one that echoes the struggles and triumphs of numerous new parent entrepreneurs.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:01 - "Introduction",
00:01:14 - "Sleep Deprivation",
00:05:24 - "Proud of the Team",
00:08:13 - "Focus on New Business",
00:13:37 - "Biggest Threat: Team Stability",
00:17:04 - The Importance of Team Collaboration,
00:19:01 - Focus on Tech Optimization,
00:21:49 - Streamlining Tech Stack,
00:25:31 - Balancing Innovation and Team Adoption,
00:28:44 - Expanding Tech Focus,
00:32:47 - Micromanagement and Task Management,
00:34:12 - Balancing Work and Family,
00:37:05 - Taking Time for Personal Life,
00:40:11 - Balancing Drive and Personal Time,
00:45:33 - Overcoming Personal Limitations,
00:49:24 - Building Confidence in Networking,
00:51:03 - The Slow Burn of Relationship Building,
00:52:20 - Growing Confidence and Self-Acceptance,
00:56:00 - The Power of Belief in Others,
00:57:40 - The Role of a Supportive Boss,

Does this sound familiar? You've been advised to solely focus on your work, believing that professional success will automatically lead to personal fulfilment. However, despite dedicating countless hours to your career, you still feel a lingering sense of emptiness. The pain of chasing a one-dimensional path and neglecting your personal endeavours is becoming increasingly apparent. It's time to break free from this ineffective cycle and discover the true keys to fulfilment and well-being outside of work.

My special guest is Katherine

Meet Katherine, a dynamic personality who combines resilience, empathy, and an insatiable yearning for personal evolution. She took the bold step of venturing into the voluntary sector with the Samaritans, bringing her innate skills of listening and connecting with people to the forefront. Katherine champions the idea of exploring personal endeavours outside of work and their gratifying impact on an individual's general well-being and contentment. Her captivating journey serves as an inspiring testament to managing personal growth amidst life's trials and tribulations.

I had a bit of an epiphany thinking, crikey, I need something for myself...I think I'm an okay listener and I like people, and I needed to have something that had some sort of social element. - Katherine

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Conquer the hurdles of the property market with strategic selling tips

• Discover the role that personal projects play in shaping a balanced life

• Identify how a podcast can act as a magnet to draw talented professionals for your business

• Appreciate the weight of effective communication and active listening in shaping success

• Absorb the vitality of agility and resilience in driving growth and seizing new opportunities

Discover personal projects' role:
Indulging in personal endeavours outside of the work environment can significantly contribute to one's overall well-being and fulfillment. Be it volunteering, starting a podcast, or any other activity that sparks interest, these pursuits can serve as a therapeutic release from professional pressures. Moreover, they allow individuals to broaden their skill set and have diversified experiences which can further be instrumental in enriching their professional lives.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Join Samaritans: If you're interested in becoming a volunteer for Samaritans like Katherine, visit their website to learn more and sign up.

• Start a podcast: If you've been thinking about starting your own podcast, take the leap and begin sharing your conversations and stories with the world.

• Update your LinkedIn profile: Consider adding the title of therapist to your LinkedIn profile if you have the relevant experience and skills.

• Consider volunteering: If you're looking for a way to give back and make a difference, explore volunteer opportunities in your community.

• Listen more: Take the time to practice active listening and engage in meaningful conversations with others.

• Increase visibility: If you're a business owner, focus on increasing your visibility through platforms like podcasts and social media to reach a wider audience.

• Embrace flexibility: Understand that not everything in life needs to be solely focused on generating income. Pursue activities and hobbies that bring you joy and fulfilment.

• Be open to unexpected directions: Don't be afraid to let conversations and experiences take you in a different direction than you originally anticipated.

• Don't be too structured: In conversations and interviews, try to be more adaptable and go

Have you heard these myths about running a business as a couple? Myth number one: working with your spouse will ruin your relationship. Myth number two: it's impossible to separate personal and professional life. Myth number three: decision-making becomes a constant battle. Tune in as Nick and Claire Rance debunk these myths and share the truth about the challenges and successes of running a business together as a couple.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Realize the power of integrating diverse talents and perspectives in a business partnership.

• Hear firsthand accounts of the highs and lows of jointly running a business with your significant other.

• Assess the impact of the pandemic on different sectors and the essence of business resilience in a volatile environment.

• Decode the significance of personalized, exceptional service in driving HR consultancy success.

• Acknowledge the emotional dimension and intricacies associated with planning your business's future.

My special guests are Nick and Claire Rance

Say hello to Claire and Nick Rance, the dynamic duo steering professional services firm PNC hr. Claire is an inherent cheerleader for businesses and a skilled networker while Nick, steeped in years of specialized knowledge in HR and health and safety, is the steady hand that guides their clients through tricky situations. Their lived experience of managing and growing a business while nurturing their personal bond offers invaluable insights into striking the perfect work-life balance.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:01 - Introduction,
00:00:55 - Supporting Small Businesses,
00:02:10 - Different Personalities in Business,
00:05:18 - Nick's Expertise and Journey,
00:07:41 - Reframing Networking,
00:12:29 - Combining Sales and Professional Services,
00:15:51 - Working Together and Building Respect,
00:19:25 - Starting the Business and Becoming Self-Employed,
00:24:20 - Building the Business During the Pandemic,
00:26:34 - Advising Small Businesses and Learning from the Pandemic,
00:29:40 - The Growth of the Business and Client Referrals,
00:31:31 - Taking Risks in Business,
00:32:40 - Successful Businesses During the Pandemic,
00:33:27 - HR and Financial Management,
00:34:31 - Positive Impact of Working Together,
00:38:55 - Building Stronger Relationships,
00:48:18 - Challenges of Working in Silos,
00:49:23 - Personalized Service vs Call Center,
00:52:45 - Success of Work-Life Balance,
00:55:52 - Building Trust and Resilience,
00:59:46 - Changing Perceptions of HR Services,
01:05:24 - The Legacy and Responsibilities,
01:06:13 - Role Assessment and Experience,
01:07:16 - Future Plans and Uncertainty,
01:08:35 - Conflicting Feelings,
01:09:52 - Passion and Uncertainty,

Prioritizing Time: Unlocking the Key to Well-Being and Success with Brad Burton

Don't sacrifice your precious time and well-being chasing money; join entrepreneur Brad Burton as he battles the relentless pursuit of wealth, defying societal norms to prioritize a balanced and fulfilling life.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Learn how blunders can become catalysts for substantial growth and progress.

• Recognize the compelling influence of seemingly insignificant events on your life trajectory.

• Redefine success, focusing on self-fulfilment rather than societal standards.

• Discern the irreplaceable worth of time over the ephemeral satisfaction of monetary gain.

• Cultivate true self-esteem, reining in the desire for approval from others.

My special guest is Brad Burton

Brad Burton's life is the perfect illustration of a journey filled from humble beginnings to becoming a go-to expert, bridging the gap between wealth and well-being. As a motivational speaker and founder of 4Networking, he defies the stereotype that success requires the relentless sacrifice of one's well-being. Brad's early experiences have shaped his unique perspective on life's little details that hold profound meaning. His infectious charisma and unwavering integrity have propelled his remarkable journey. From the lights of the UK's biggest stages to sharing his wisdom with entrepreneurs, Brad demonstrates the art of embracing the unpredictability of life.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit Brad Burton's website to learn more about his motivational speaking services and book him for your next event.

• Check out Brad Burton's books on Amazon and start reading his motivational and business advice today.

• Follow Brad Burton on LinkedIn to stay updated on his latest content and insights.

• Watch Brad Burton's presentation at Xerocon on YouTube to see his powerful message about saying yes and seizing opportunities.

• Attend one of Brad Burton's live speaking events to experience his motivational energy and gain valuable insights for your business.

• Explore Brad Burton's online courses and workshops to enhance your business skills and mindset.

• Connect with Brad Burton on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram) for daily doses of inspiration and business tips.

• Subscribe to Brad Burton's newsletter to receive exclusive content, updates, and special offers.

• Purchase a ticket to Brad Burton's next live webinar or virtual event to learn from him in a convenient online format.

In this episode of The Ups and Downs of a Small Business Owner, James Marshall shares his experience with miscarriage and emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and open communication. But just as the conversation gets heated, a sudden interruption leaves James Marshall and the host in an unexpected and uncomfortable situation, leaving the audience wondering how they will handle it. My special guest is James Marshall, a gentle giant with a heart for building stronger relationships, has been nurturing his passion for open communication and vulnerability throughout his professional and personal life. Standing at 6'6 and weighing 110 kg, this ex-rugby player may appear like your stereotypical tough guy, but he's an ardent advocate of emotional openness, even sharing that he cries at times. Using his platform to inspire change, James aims to break the sigma male mentality by encouraging men to embrace their vulnerability and talk about their feelings. As a result, he's become a champion for mental health awareness and improving professional relationships. Get to know James and his unique perspective on vulnerability, especially in a world where 60 men take their lives every hour globally.

If you're feeling an overwhelming sense of frustration and confusion as you invest time and resources into adapting to AI, only to see minimal progress or setbacks, then you are not alone!

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Uncover the significance of devising a plan before launching a business.

• Discover how to maintain an equilibrium in caring for employees and effectively managing your business.

• Explore ways to achieve harmony between your work and personal life.

• Learn about the influence of AI on the workforce and the growing necessity of acquiring new skills.

• Embrace the fluctuating nature of entrepreneurship and cultivate adaptability.

My special guest is Matt Beswick

Meet Matt Beswick, a digital marketing whiz and co-founder of AIRA, a successful 50-person agency he started with his buddy Paddy back in 2015. Known for his knack for SEO and love for all things geeky, Matt's journey has seen him go from coding and innovating to leading a thriving company. With a passion for entrepreneurship that goes back to his teenage years, Matt's experience in gaming and the world of AI has shaped his perspective on the importance of upskilling in today's workforce. With a relaxed demeanour and friendly approach, Matt's insights on the impact of AI are sure to resonate with our entrepreneur audience.

Tim Lee, a serial networker, sets out to build a business by getting out there and talking to people, only to find himself threatened by the economic crisis, but his determination to succeed leads him to make a daring decision that ultimately changes his life.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Uncover the significance of networking and cultivating relationships for business success.
• Trace Tim Lee's exhilarating transition from retail manager to the mastermind behind Collaborate MK.
• Discover unique ways to modify networking events in a pandemic-driven world and sustain your business's presence.
• Learn to establish a warm and inclusive environment that fosters a supportive community at networking events.
• Delve into the fascinating possibilities of artificial intelligence in shaping future business operations.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the lack of results in your efforts to boost mental wellbeing? Tired of the same old advice of building supportive networks or trying uplifting activities that fail to deliver? Uncover the secrets to proactive mental well-being and finally achieve lasting results with this episode.

Let Sophie etc show you the magic of Milton Keynes Food & Drink, where everyone can come together!
Here's what I cover with Sophie Neal in this episode:
1. How Sophie Neal Went From Being a 17-Year-Old Blogger to a Successful Social Media Marketer
2. How Sophie Neal Used Her Blog to Explore the Local Food Scene in Milton Keynes
3. The Magic of the Local Food and Drink Facebook Group in Milton Keynes During Lockdown.
Sophie Neal is a local celebrity, social media manager, content creator and foodie from Milton Keynes. She is the founder of Youtopia et cetera, a blog that celebrates the local food and drink scene and has been shortlisted for the 2021 Blogosphere Awards.

Marion Ellis, a 47-year-old charter surveyor, takes a daring leap of faith to pursue her passion for surveying, despite her earlier doubts and lack of confidence, and discovers the power of support and curiosity.

"Where you have the most support in life is where you have the most success. Nobody becomes the CEO of a business without mentors, sponsors, coaching in some way that support that lifts you up."

Marion Ellis is a charter surveyor, business owner, coach, member of RIC's Council, ambassador for Lionheart, B1G1 global partner, ADHD advocate, and a cheerleader for equal opportunities for women in surveying.

Marion Ellis was a charter surveyor with a background in defects and valuation claims, but was feeling frustrated and downbeat. After her burnout, she found herself questioning whether she was still a surveyor. She began a Women in Surveying project as a leadership project and found the female support she craved. She was also inspired to learn more about business and financial literacy, which helped her gain confidence and eventually led to her success. Through her journey, Marion learned the importance of having a strong support system and education in order to be successful.

In this episode, you will learn the following:
1. Exploring the Impact of Work-Life Integration: How Marion Ellis navigated a career transition from corporate to small business and the importance of having professional and personal support.
2. Investigating the Impact of Gender in the Surveyor Profession: Examining the prevalence of women surveyors, the challenges they face, and the importance of mentorship and support.
3. Examining the Role of Curiosity in Professional Development: Investigating how curiosity can be a powerful tool for creativity, innovation, and problem-solving.
Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youtopiasolutions
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YoutopiaSolutions
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQh2hMYBVGc7dEnAH9TkXOw
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HelloYoutopia
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/youtopia-solutions-ltd/
Website: https://www.youtopia.co.uk/


Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: {LINK}

"Evolve or deplete: Discover the power of marketing and finance to take your business from Point A to Point B with New Gen".
Harry Alston is an investor, recruiter, property manager, and marketer with a passion for entrepreneurship. He is an experienced business owner and recruiter, and has a deep understanding of the highs and lows of running a business.

After escaping poverty as a teen, Debbie Lewis takes on a risky entrepreneurial journey, only to learn the hard way that failure can be the key to success. "When you have trodden that path and done alright out of it, I heard Shalom Lloyd say a couple of years ago, 'leave the ladder down' - and that really resonates for me." 

Debbie Lewis is a passionate entrepreneur and small business cheerleader, having founded and managed a chain of hair and beauty salons for 17 years. She is now a business advisor and regional ecosystem manager. Debbie Lewis had a burning passion for entrepreneurship from a young age, and she used it to escape poverty and strive for a better life for herself. Despite her lack of experience and resources, she managed to purchase a hair and beauty salon and build a successful business. 

However, she quickly learned a few hard lessons, including the importance of listening to advice, understanding her weaknesses, and being strategic in her business decisions. After a few tough years and almost losing everything, Debbie emerged with a newfound understanding of business that she never would have acquired without the experiences she endured. 

In this episode, you will learn the following: 

1. How did Debbie Lewis go from growing up in poverty to becoming a successful entrepreneur? 

2. How can a business owner find the right people to help them scale and exit their business? 

3. How did Debbie Lewis learn to listen to her accountant’s advice and use it to save her business? Connect with us: Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/youtopiasolutions Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YoutopiaSolutions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQh2hMYBVGc7dEnAH9TkXOw Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/HelloYoutopia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/youtopia-solutions-ltd/ Website: https://www.youtopia.co.uk/

Interviewing James Chapman from Recruiter on Demand talking about his journey from working as a salesman to going into recruitment and how he is changing the industry to not focus on commission but insourcing by putting internal recruiters into a business.

Katherine Interviewing Anita Devi from Team ADL, talking about her journey from being a teacher to forming her own company, becoming a change maker in the SEND space challenging government policy, how she is focused on core values and the views on work-life balance.

David Interviewing Jonathan Jennings from Premier Garage Equipment, starting work as an engineer, being made redundant and then starting his business, growing the team to over 20 people and bringing in a business partner.

Katherine Interviewing Steve Judge from Bonfire Creative Intelligence, we talked about starting up his design agency over 20 years ago, growing the team to over 20 people and then the effects of losing a big contract and bouncing back over Covid.

David Interviewing Ed Neal from Geodesa, we talked about the ‘Voyage’, how he started work on the seas to take every opportunity he was given and now runs a small business on land although his life goal is to sail the Atlantic.

In this episode of "The Ups and Downs of a Small Business Owner" podcast, Caroline Duran, a charity leadership coach, shares her experiences of burnout while working in the charity sector and how it led her to start her own business. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and prioritizing well-being for business owners. Caroline discusses the challenges of running a business, staying true to core values, and achieving work-life balance. She reflects on her past experiences and the people who have influenced and supported her. Caroline hopes to leave behind a legacy of helping people thrive while prioritizing their well-being.

Katherine Interviewing Sue Michaels from Red Bird Tutoring. Talking about life as a teacher, moving into coaching, photography, radio shows and gardening! Then not feeling confident in front of other business owners, to now growing the business.

David Interviewing Allen Frost from Frost Van Hire and the incredible journey he has been through from starting the business to losing his dad/business partner and bringing in his brother Daniel which saved the business. We then spoke about how having his little boy changed his outlook on everything

Katherine has interviewed David on the first 5 years of starting and running a "successful" business. The ups and downs he has been through and his thoughts on growing a business during the pandemic.

With blind optimism and deep emotional investment, Katherine takes a risk to pursue her dream of building a better place to work, but quickly realizes that her quest for perfection is a challenge she must overcome if she is to succeed.

You will learn:
1. How Katherine used networking and presentations to build her business
2. How Katherine is learning to balance her personal and professional lives
3. How Katherine and her business partner overcame financial challenges and scaled the business.

Katherine is a small business owner and partner of Youtopia, a business she started with her business partner five years ago. She has a wealth of experience in the sector, having worked in corporate and operational roles, and later in finance. She is passionate about creating a better place to work and is determined to keep moving forward.

If your looking to get a snippet of what this podcast is about