Honest Business

Hosted by May James

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134

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Dec 2025

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About the show

The Honest Business podcast is here to give you advanced business strategy and the inside know-how for business owners who are scaling rapidly with strong, value-driven businesses. Hosted by May James, Multiple Business Owner, Growth Strategist and Global Business Consultant. May is known for her unfiltered, honest approach to business and leadership; giving you the real 101 on a variety of high level business topics, so that you can make use of the time you invest whilst listening and see results, fast.

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December 9, 2025Episode 1331 hr 10 min

133. How Victoria Jackson Became an Industry Leader and Built the Dream Business Her Future Self Wanted to Run

What does it actually look like to build a business led by intuition, aligned action, and a deep sense of self-trust? In this episode, I’m joined by Victoria Jackson, one of the UK’s leading manifestation and mindset coaches, an EFT practitioner, chart-topping podcast host, and the founder of The Collective—a digital resort where members arrive as they are and check out as their Future Selves, to explore the real inner work behind sustainable success.Victoria shares how she learned to treat “failure” as data, why your thoughts shape your business more than you realise, and what happens when you start making decisions as your future self. We talk about navigating rejection wounds, stabilisation seasons, capacity, and the emotional realities most entrepreneurs never speak about publicly.She also opens up about rebuilding her membership into a digital resort, setting boundaries that protect both her wellbeing and her community, and the manifestation story that led to her becoming a three-time author.This conversation is part of our CEO Series on the Honest Business Podcast, where we sit down with inspiring founders to uncover what it really looks like to lead and grow a business on your own terms.Key Points:Failing isn’t real, it’s just data (01:27)Thoughts, self-concept + business outcomes (02:25)Making decisions as your future self (19:26)Why stabilisation seasons matter (33:55)Reimagining The Collective as a digital resort (56:04)Boundaries, capacity + protecting your energy (01:01:00)The manifestation story behind book three (43:17)Connect with Victoria:Instagram: @themanifestationcollectivePodcast: The Manifestation CollectiveWebsite: themanifestationcollective.coConnect with May on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/Website https://www.mayjames.com

November 25, 2025Episode 13255 min

132. Building Adaptive Customer Journeys That Grow Revenue & Don’t Burn Out Your Team With Alex Fearon

What does it really mean to design a business around clarity instead of complexity? In this episode, I’m joined by Alex Fearon, strategic marketer and founder of Maybe Later, who helps purpose-driven businesses map customer journeys that clients enjoy and teams can actually manage.Alex shares how she created the Align Framework, a practical tool that combines audience insight, content strategy, and business goals without the jargon. We talk about why retention matters more than acquisition, how customer journey mapping reveals hidden gaps, and why human connection, not just AI, will define the next era of marketing. She also opens up about team communication, breaking down silos, and how clarity can reduce fatigue and create joy at work.This conversation is part of our CEO Series on the Honest Business Podcast, where we sit down with inspiring founders to uncover what it really looks like to lead and grow a business on your own terms.Key Points:Why every business has a customer journey (02:24)Retention over funnels: the new marketing reality (09:14)Spotting gaps and leaks that slow growth (12:59)Busting myths: mapping doesn’t have to take weeks (30:22)Tech, AI, and keeping the human touch (33:46)Quiet ambition and leading on your own terms (51:58)Connect with Alex on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/its_maybelater/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrafearon/Website https://www.maybelater.uk/Connect with May on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/Website https://www.mayjames.com

November 11, 2025Episode 1311 hr 7 min

131. From Accidental Startup to Seven Figures: What It Actually Looks Like To Lead

What does it take to scale fast without losing yourself? In this episode, I’m joined by Kelly Duckworth, co-founder and CEO of The Care Collective, who went from “helping with paperwork” at 22 to building a seven-figure, bootstrapped home-care company.Kelly shares the truth behind rapid growth (ageism, burnout, rebuilding systems) and learning to set boundaries without apology. We dive into strategy that sticks, hiring and trialling middle management, and why resilience often looks like messy iteration instead of perfection.This conversation is part of our CEO Series on the Honest Business Podcast, where we sit down with inspiring founders to uncover what it really looks like to lead and grow a business on your own terms.Key Points:The glamour myth vs. real entrepreneurship (01:30)From “helping Mum” to seven figures bootstrapped (16:37)Boundaries, burnout, and rebuilding the business... again (27:17)Hiring middle management: trials, probation, and trust (38:49)“Be afraid and do it anyway” resilience without the highlight reel (49:09)Preparing for maternity: systems, handovers, and saying no (57:43)Connect with Kelly on...LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-duckworth-0b0484184/?originalSubdomain=jeConnect with May on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/Website https://www.mayjames.com

October 28, 2025Episode 13052 min

130. A Decade of Creative Leadership: How to Build a Spacious, Sustainable Business

What does it really take to run a creative business without stress or burnout? In today’s episode, I’m joined by designer and mentor Cat Byrne, who built a six-figure studio that stays booked out peacefully months in advance.Cat shares how she went from charging £400 for projects to confidently landing five-figure clients, all while working just two to three days a week and prioritising family and freedom. We dive into pricing, leadership, and the practical strategies that make a creative business both profitable and sustainable. If you’ve ever wondered whether peace and success can co-exist, this conversation will show you how.This conversation is part of our CEO Series on the Honest Business Podcast, where we sit down with inspiring founders to uncover what it really looks like to lead and grow a business on your own terms.Key Points:Why your business doesn’t have to be stressful to succeed (2:44)What a “spacious” business looks like day-to-day (3:34)The pricing shifts that create room for growth (13:28)Why starting a business is your first leadership decision (28:27)How to be fully yourself in business and still succeed (50:53)Connect with Cat on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gattocreativementor/Website https://www.mentor.gattoweb.com/ Connect with May on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/Website https://www.mayjames.com

October 9, 2024Episode 12946 min

129. Sales Funnels Unpacked: Your Top Questions Answered

Do all products really need an automated sales funnel? Today I'm answering some of your most asked questions when it comes to sales funnels! Whether you're questioning what is the best freebie to create or how to create a funnel for your one-on-one services, this episode has the answers. Tune in for practical advice to ensure your funnel aligns with customer needs and drives better results. Key Points:Does every product need a funnel? (1:55)How do I know which freebie to use for my specific offer? (5:00)What freebie works best for selling one on one services? (16:15)How can I integrate upselling or cross-selling into my automated sales funnel? (30:14)What to do if my funnel isn't converting? (35:59) Connect with May on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/Website https://www.mayjames.com

October 2, 2024Episode 12826 min

128. Why Your Consulting Services Aren't Selling

Why are potential clients hesitating to invest in your consulting services? Today I'm looking at the common barriers that might prevent them from purchasing. From psychological to practical obstacles, I explore how price sensitivity, scepticism about results, fear of change, and poor timing could impact why people are not buying. Plus, I share some key strategies to help you start making sales, refine your sales approach, and boost your consulting businesses. Key Points:Price Sensitivity (00:02:10)Scepticism About Results (00:03:07)Scepticism About the Process (00:04:23)Fear of Change (00:05:20)Perception of Self-Sufficiency (00:06:17)Timing Issues (00:07:14)Personality of the Consultant (00:08:04)Misalignment of Expectations (00:10:07)In-Person vs Virtual Services (00:11:05)Complexity of the Service (00:12:01)Long-Term Commitment Anxiety (00:14:08)Clarity of Unique Selling Proposition (00:15:22)Doubts About Expertise (00:16:10)Lack of Urgency (00:16:36)Quality of Offering (00:20:33)Comfort Zones in Consulting (00:22:31)Connect with May on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/Website https://www.mayjames.com

September 25, 2024Episode 12750 min

127. Freelance Team Q&A - How To Effectively Manage Your Freelance Team

How do you successfully manage and build a successful freelance team, especially in a virtual environment? In this episode, I look at other teams and my own and explore the challenges and strategies of leading freelance teams. From looking at the key concerns, like balancing freelancers' business pursuits with their work for your company, I highlight in this episode some important aspects you can not overlook. Whether new to freelancing or looking to improve your current team setup, this episode provides valuable tips to boost productivity, maintain accountability, and create a cohesive, high-performing freelance team. Key points in this episode: Question 1: Team Members' Personal Business Growth (03:50) Question 2: Communication Structure (11:00) Question 3: Building Team Culture Virtually (18:12) Question 4: Monitor Productivity & Quality (25:50) Question 5: Having A Dual Team (35:52) Connect with May on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/Website https://www.mayjames.com

September 18, 2024Episode 12640 min

126. How To Stop Profit Erosion

Are you facing profit erosion in your business? Or want to know what it is so that you can avoid it if you are ever faced with it? Today I explain what profit erosion is and why it matters. I look at the key factors that slowly chip away at profits, including inflation, pricing missteps, over-servicing clients, inefficiencies in staffing, and increased market competition. Tune in to hear my strategies to help you fight back, like conducting regular pricing reviews, streamlining operations, and keeping up with market trends. By recognising the signs early, you can take proactive steps to protect profitability in today's evolving economy!Key points in this episode:Understanding Profit Erosion (00:01:00)Recognising Profit Erosion (00:04:06)Time and Inflation (00:06:45)Pricing Problems (00:08:31)Over Servicing Clients (00:10:33)Volume vs. Demand-Based Pricing (00:12:44)Staffing Issues (00:17:02)Cash Flow Management (00:19:07)Business Analysis (00:27:12)Adjusting Pricing Strategies (00:32:17)Shifting Target Market (00:34:11)Connect with May on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/Website https://www.mayjames.com

September 11, 2024Episode 12530 min

125. Building a Business for the Life You Want Not The One You Have

Are you building a business that truly aligns with the life you want, or are you just reacting to your current circumstances? This episode will help you see the importance of creating a business that supports your dream life, rather than one that merely addresses present challenges. I discuss the pitfalls of decision-making based on immediate situations, which can lead to stagnation and missed opportunities. This episode is designed to inspire you to take actionable steps toward a more fulfilling business and life. Key points in this episode:The Trap of Current Circumstances (00:00:53)Building Resilience (00:03:17)Support Systems (00:04:23)Daily Actions (00:07:25)Identifying Old Habits (00:09:11)The Impact of Trends on Business (00:11:18)Feeling Trapped in Success (00:12:12)Burnout (00:15:25)Fitting Business Around Life (00:16:44)Finding Joy in Business (00:20:58)Navigating Resistance and Fear (00:22:49)Betting on Yourself (00:27:50) Connect with May on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/Website https://www.mayjames.com

September 4, 2024Episode 12434 min

124. Finding The Right Clients: Tips and Red Flags

Are you struggling to find the right clients for your business? This week I explore the importance of attracting clients who align with your values and goals. To help you avoid some of my past pitfalls, I share some of my strategies for identifying your ideal clients, from refining your messaging to selecting the right marketing channels. I also discuss the value of pre-screening clients, setting clear boundaries, and drafting detailed contracts to foster successful, long-term partnerships. Tune in for actionable insights to improve your client acquisition strategy and drive your business success. Key points in this episode:The Cost of Misaligned Clients (00:00:50)Identifying Your Ideal Client (00:04:58)The Importance of Saying No (00:06:53)Defining the Perfect Client vs. Offer (00:07:53)Refining Your Messaging (00:09:02)Selecting Appropriate Marketing Channels (00:11:44)Aligning Language with Client Needs (00:16:38)Being Direct in Communication (00:19:10)Creating Touchpoints for Attraction (00:21:09)Ensuring Effective Referrals (00:23:33)Pre-Screening Potential Clients (00:24:31)Identifying Red Flags (00:26:53)Establishing Clear Contracts & Onboarding Process (00:29:54)Continuous Client Acquisition Strategy (00:32:04)Connect with May on...Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/Website https://www.mayjames.com