The Small Business Podcast - from Breakout

Hosted by Farley

Business Management

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Episodes

125

Latest episode

May 2026

Language

EN-GB

About the show

The Small Business Podcast for Small Businesses, brought to you by Breakout. Whether you're launching a new start-up , growing a side hustle , or just beginning to dream big, this podcast is packed with practical advice , real stories , and step-by-step tips to help you build a business that works. From how to get started, to the tools, mindset, and strategy you need, we cover everything you need to know to launch and grow your business with confidence. Real advice. Real experiences. Real talk for small business owners. Subscribe now and join the Breakout community where small businesses are kind of a big deal.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

May 14, 2026Episode 12421 min

The 5 Biggest Business Mistakes We All Make As Small Business Owners (And How to Fix Them).mp3

In this episode of The Small Business Podcast for Small Businesses, we dive into the five most common mistakes that hold business owners back, the ones we’ve made ourselves, the ones we see every week, and the ones that quietly slow down growth without you even realising.We’re not here to shame anyone. Mistakes are normal. They’re part of the journey. But when you know what to look out for and how to fix them. So you can grow faster, avoid unnecessary stress, and build a business that feels easier to run.We talk honestly about the patterns we see, the lessons we’ve learned, and the simple shifts that make the biggest difference over time.If you recognise any of these in your own business, you’re not alone. And if you know of any others we should add to the list, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out if you’d like help tackling any of these challenges learning from others is one of the quickest ways to improveSupport the show

May 7, 2026Episode 1237 min

Get Found for Free: Why Every Small Business Needs Google My Business

In this episode of The Small Business Podcast for Small Businesses, Farley breaks down why Google My Business (now Google Business Profile) is one of the most powerful free tools available to small business owners.If you don’t have a website yet, don’t use social media, or simply want more local customers to find you, this episode explains how Google My Business can act as your online shop window, without costing a penny.We explore:Why Google My Business is essential for visibility Your business can appear on Google Search and Google Maps instantly.How reviews build trust and attract new customers Social proof matters and Google reviews are often the first thing people check.How it works as a mini‑website Add photos, opening hours, services, updates, and contact details in minutes.Why it’s perfect for small businesses with no online presence A simple, free way to get found by people searching for what you offer.How to optimise your listing for maximum impact Small tweaks that help you rank higher in local search.Whether you’re just starting out or looking to boost your visibility, this episode shows you how Google My Business can help you get discovered, build credibility, and bring in more customers, all without spending a penny on ads or complicated marketing. Support the show

April 30, 2026Episode 12217 min

Brand, Don’t Blend: Why Canva Is a Game‑Changer for Small Business Content

In this episode of The Small Business Podcast for Small Businesses, Farley and Liam talk about why Canva is one of the most powerful tools a small business owner can use... not for copying trends, but for building a recognisable, trustworthy brand.We discuss how Canva helps you create on easy mode, helping you to produce consistent, professional, on‑brand content that stands out in a crowded feed, and why relying on “trending AI posters” or generic templates can actually weaken your brand rather than strengthen it.Whether you’re creating social media posts, presentations, flyers, or website graphics, this episode will help you understand how to use Canva properly — as a branding tool, not a shortcut.Perfect for small business owners who want to elevate their content, stand out online, and build a brand that people instantly recognise.Find our downloads here: breakoutservices.co.uk/online-courses-downloads/Or join us in person at our next event here: breakoutservices.co.uk/events/Support the show

April 23, 2026Episode 12147 min

Beyond the Hourly Rate: How Real Professionals Create Long‑Term Value for Their Clients

In Part 2 of this special mini‑series, Farley takes the lead as David Rudd (Steven Burton & Co) and Benjamin Jerome (Holmes & Hills Solicitors) return to dig deeper into what real value looks like in professional services and why it goes far beyond charging by the hour or minute.This episode explores how accountants and solicitors can deliver meaningful, long‑term results by focusing on relationships, clarity, and horizon‑scanning rather than transactional billing. David and Ben share how an enquiry or initial conversation isn’t a “freebie”, it’s a vital tool for understanding the client, spotting risks early, and building the trust needed to do the job properly.In this episode, they discuss:Why they don’t charge by the hour — and how fixed‑fee, value‑based work benefits clientsThe importance of explaining the result, not the processHow early conversations uncover problems before they become expensive mistakesWhy long‑term thinking (horizon scanning) protects clients financially and legallyHow strong relationships lead to better outcomes, smoother communication, and long‑term loyaltyThe unseen value: saving clients money, preventing issues, and ensuring tasks are done correctly the first timeThis is an honest, practical conversation for small business owners who want to understand what they’re really paying for and why choosing the right accountant or solicitor can be one of the most important decisions they make.Perfect for anyone who wants to work smarter with their professional advisors, build stronger relationships, and get better long‑term resultsSupport the show

April 16, 2026Episode 12034 min

Turning Expertise into Trust How to Build Client Relationships That Deliver Results

Liam is joined by David from Steven Burton & Co and Ben from Holmes and Hills Solicitors for a practical conversation about turning professional expertise into the outcomes clients actually want. This episode focuses on the first steps of relationship building: creating confidence at first contact, listening to real client needs, and setting the tone for long‑term trust.You’ll hear actionable advice on:How to build rapport quickly so clients feel understood and confident in your adviceTranslating technical expertise into client results by focusing on outcomes, not jargonPractical first‑meeting tactics that create belief and reduce friction for future workMaintaining trust over time through clear communication, realistic expectations, and follow‑throughWhy this episode matters?Small business owners and professional service providers will get real examples from an accountant and a solicitor about what works when converting enquiries into loyal clients. And don't worry, normal service will return next week as Farley returns for Part 2.Listen if you want toImprove first meetings and onboardingTurn technical services into clear client benefitsReduce churn and increase referralsSupport the show

April 9, 2026Episode 11922 min

Confidence Over Quiet: How Belief Fuels Small Business Success

Farley is joined by Liam to unpack why confidence and self‑belief are as essential to running a small business as a good product or service. They explore how confidence opens doors, attracts customers, and helps you make bolder decisions, while also exposing you to criticism and scrutiny. The conversation tackles the uniquely British tendency to stay modest and avoid bragging, how that can hold businesses back, and practical ways to build authentic confidence without becoming boastful. Expect honest stories, simple mindset shifts, and actionable tips to help you show up more confidently in marketing, sales, and everyday client interactions. This episode is for you if your just starting out or feeling in a rut with your small and mighty business. Listen in if you want to stop shrinking, start being seen, and turn quiet confidence into measurable business growth.Support the show

April 2, 2026Episode 11831 min

5 Simple Ways to Improve Your Customer Service & Reduce Admin as a Small Business

Great customer service doesn’t have to mean more admin, more stress, or more hours in the day. In this episode of The Small Business Podcast for Small Businesses, Liam and Farley break down five practical, instantly‑actionable ideas that help you deliver a better customer experience while reducing the amount of admin on your plate.Whether you’re a one‑person business or a growing team, these small changes make a big difference.In this episode, we cover:1. Set Clear Opening Hours (Online & Offline)Why your Google Business Profile, website, and physical signage must match—and how mismatched hours create confusion, missed opportunities, and unnecessary messages.2. Make It Easy for People to Find YouFrom Google Maps to social media links to automated meeting confirmations, we explain how to reduce “Where are you?” messages and help customers arrive confident and on time.3. Choose Your Preferred Contact MethodPhone? Email? WhatsApp? Messenger? We talk about how to guide customers to the method that works best for you—and how this reduces scattered messages and lost enquiries.4. Support Local & Build PartnershipsWhy collaborating with nearby businesses boosts visibility, trust, and referrals—and how to choose partners who genuinely complement your services.5. Respond to Everyone (Even When the Answer Is No)The simple habit that builds reputation, increases conversions, and keeps your business top‑of‑mind.This episode is packed with practical tips you can implement today to streamline your workflow, reduce admin, and create a smoother, more professional customer experience.If you want your business to feel easier, more organised, and more customer‑friendly, this one’s for you.Support the show

March 25, 202622 min

Making Tax Digital Explained: Thresholds, Deadlines & What Small Businesses Need to Do

Here’s a search‑optimised title and description for your Making Tax Digital episode, fully aligned with the latest HMRC guidance and including the links you requested.🎙️ Episode TitleMaking Tax Digital Explained: Thresholds, Deadlines & What Small Businesses Need to Do✨ Episode DescriptionIn this episode of The Small Business Podcast for Small Businesses, Farley breaks down Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Liam in a clear, jargon‑free way—so you finally understand what’s changing, when it’s changing, and what you actually need to do as a small business owner.We cover:What Making Tax Digital really is and why HMRC is rolling it outWho must comply and when the rules apply to youThe new income thresholds:Over £50,000 → mandatory from 6 April 2026 Over £30,000 → mandatory from 6 April 202Over £20,000 → planned for 2028 (subject to legislation)What “digital record‑keeping” actually meansHow quarterly submissions workWhat software you’ll need—and the free option we recommendWhat happens if you don’t complyWhether you’re a sole trader, landlord, or running a small business, this episode gives you the practical steps to get ready without the overwhelm.🔗 Useful Links MentionedHMRC: Making Tax Digital Guidance https://www.gov.uk/guidance/find-out-if-and-when-you-need-to-use-making-tax-digital-for-income-tax 123 Sheets (Free MTD‑compatible bridging software) https://www.123sheets.comIf you want to stay ahead of the changes and avoid last‑minute stress, this episode is a must‑listen. Or drop in to Suffolk Creative Spaces (if your local) on the 26th March, or book some time with Farley to answer any questions you have and get yourself ready for the changes that are comming. breakoutservices.co.uk/book-an-appointmentSupport the show

February 13, 2026Episode 11717 min

Location, Location… Motivation: Why Your Business Space Matters More Than You Think

Finding the right space for your small business isn’t just about four walls and a roof- it’s about choosing an environment that supports your growth, your mindset, and the way you work. In this episode of The Small Business Podcast for Small Businesses, we take you behind the scenes of our own journey to find the perfect location.We talk honestly about the challenges, (can you believe it was being too busy at one point - we'll explain in the episode) the wrong move (going from one extreme to the other), the “this will do” moments (taking a step back and regrouping)… and the moment we finally found a space that felt right! (Our new home) Whether you’re looking for your first office, a creative studio, a co‑working spot, or somewhere you can drop in ad‑hoc and get things done, this episode will help you understand what really matters when choosing a home for your business.You’ll hear:Why the wrong space can quietly hold your business backThe unexpected things we learned while searchingHow your environment affects productivity, creativity, and confidenceWhat to look for when choosing a workspace (beyond the obvious)Why investing in the right location is an investment in your futureIf you’re a small business owner dreaming of a space that actually works for you -not against you . . . this episode will give you the clarity and motivation you need to make the right choiceSupport the show

February 6, 2026Episode 11618 min

Why Co‑Working Works: The Real Benefits of Desk Hire for Small Business Owners

This week on The Small Business Podcast for Small Businesses, Farley and Liam dive into the real, practical benefits of co‑working and desk hire—and why it’s becoming a game‑changer for freelancers, remote workers, and small business owners across Suffolk.With the relaunch of Suffolk Creative Spaces at the Stour Valley Business Centre in Sudbury, they explore what co‑working actually is (and what it isn’t), and why so many people are choosing it over working from home or sitting alone in a café.In this episode, they break down:Why co‑working boosts productivityNo more laundry staring at you. No more “I’ll just quickly…” distractions. A dedicated desk in a professional environment helps you get more done in less time.How desk hire helps remote teams reconnectSome people book desks together so they can work side‑by‑side once a week, even if they’re normally remote. It’s a simple way to collaborate, plan, and stay aligned.The community advantage (without the chaos)Co‑working isn’t a social club. It’s a supportive, professional space where solo business owners can:ask quick questionsget feedbackshare ideaslearn from othersIt’s community without the cliques, noise, or pressure.A better environment for focus and wellbeingBeing around other motivated people naturally lifts your energy and helps you stay on track.Why Suffolk Creative Spaces is differentLiam and Farley talk about the newly relaunched hub in Sudbury—designed specifically for small business owners who want:a calm, productive workspaceflexible desk hirea friendly, professional atmosphereaccess to meeting rooms, content spaces, and great coffeeWhether you’ve never tried co‑working before or you’re looking for a new place to work, this episode will help you understand how the right environment can transform your productivity and your business.Tune in and discover why co‑working might be exactly what you’ve been missing.Support the show