How To Be Moderately Successful.

Hosted by Mike Scott

Business Management

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Latest episode

May 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Building a business is hard. Maintaining healthy relationships with those that you care about is hard. Staying fit and healthy in your body, your mind and your emotions is hard. This podcast is about finding and sharing tools, strategies and experiences that may help you to achieve and maintain moderate success in your life, whatever that means to you. There is a ton of content created by the billionaires, the ultra successful athletes, and by people that are at a level that the vast majority of us will just never get to. And if you're anything like me, you're totally okay with that. This is a place where we talk about how to build a great business, but not necessarily a massive one. A place to talk about how we build a life that is balanced and integrated, but not necessarily optimised to levels that are not realistic for most of us. In short, it's a place where we explore how to be moderately successful. The work will always remain yours, and for the most part, it's simple, but not easy. I sincerely hope it's valuable to you. -Mike If you want to talk about working with me get in touch on mike@smbmastery.com.au or https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/

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55 recent

May 6, 202612 min

EP55 The Four Pillars of Effective Leadership for Emerging Managers

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Mike Scott shares four simple but powerful frameworks for emerging leaders and middle managers in small to mid-sized businesses. He explores the trap of chasing certainty, the underrated skill of leading up, providing clarity to those you lead, and defining the leader you want to become.keywordsleadership, management, clarity, certainty, leading up, leading down, leadership identity, decision-making, middle management, leadership frameworkskey topicsClarity over certainty as a leadership unlock Leading up and pulling clarity from your own leaders Leading down and providing clarity to your team Defining your leadership identity with three words Using identity as a daily decision-making filter"The pursuit of certainty doesn't really exist." "Leading up means pulling clarity from your leader." "Before you can expect accountability, you need to provide clarity."Chapters00:00 The Pursuit of Clarity Over Certainty 02:21 Leading Up: Pulling Clarity From Your Leaders 04:34 Leading Down: Providing Clarity to Your Team 06:55 Defining Your Leadership Identity 09:17 Putting the Frameworks Into PracticeresourcesEssentialism by Greg McKeown - https://www.amazon.com/Essentialism-Disciplined-Pursuit-Less-ebook/dp/B00X4WHP5EFind out more about working with me or about applying to join the ILN. mike@smbmastery.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/https://theintentionalleaders.com/

April 22, 202649 min

EP54 How To Actually Get Better At Something

Send us Fan MailIn this engaging conversation, Mike Scott and Troye S Wallett explore personal finance, wealth building, and effective strategies for financial independence. They discuss practical systems, mindset, and first principles to help listeners optimize their financial future. keywordspersonal finance, wealth building, financial independence, investment strategies, automation, budgeting, personal wealth, financial planning, index funds, crypto key topicsPersonal wealth definition and emotional aspectAutomated financial systems and envelope methodInvestment strategies: ETFs, crypto, and index fundsImportance of shared financial goals in partnershipsAdapting financial plans over different life stages"Getting rich slowly is actually pretty easy.""Finance is difficult, but it’s worth the effort.""The hard things in life are the ones worth doing."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Personal Finance05:19 Defining Personal Wealth10:16 Creating a Personal Finance Plan17:09 Communication in Financial Partnerships20:09 Investing Principles and Strategies21:55 The Importance of a Financial Plan27:05 Understanding Investment Strategies32:21 The Evolution of Financial Mindset36:48 Establishing Financial Bare Minimums42:16 Final Thoughts on Personal Finance resourcesThe Barefoot Investor - https://www.amazon.com.au/Barefoot-Investor-Scott-Pape/dp/0730385624Profit First - https://www.amazon.com/Profit-First-Transform-Your-Binance/dp/0735214140Morgan Housel - Psychology of Money - https://collabfund.com/blog/morgan-housel-the-psychology-of-money/Scott Pape - The Barefoot Investor - https://barefootinvestor.com/Warren Buffett Quote - https://www.investopedia.com/terms/w/warrenbuffett.aspFind out more about working with me or about applying to join the ILN. mike@smbmastery.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/https://theintentionalleaders.com/

April 8, 202645 min

EP53 Breaking Down Personal Finance

Send us Fan MailIn this engaging conversation, Mike Scott and Troye Wallett explore personal finance, wealth building, and effective strategies for financial independence. They discuss practical systems, mindset, and first principles to help listeners optimize their financial future. keywordspersonal finance, wealth building, financial independence, investment strategies, automation, budgeting, personal wealth, financial planning, index funds, crypto key topicsPersonal wealth definition and emotional aspectAutomated financial systems and envelope methodInvestment strategies: ETFs, crypto, and index fundsImportance of shared financial goals in partnershipsAdapting financial plans over different life stages"Getting rich slowly is actually pretty easy.""Finance is difficult, but it’s worth the effort.""The hard things in life are the ones worth doing."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Personal Finance05:19 Defining Personal Wealth10:16 Creating a Personal Finance Plan17:09 Communication in Financial Partnerships20:09 Investing Principles and Strategies21:55 The Importance of a Financial Plan27:05 Understanding Investment Strategies32:21 The Evolution of Financial Mindset36:48 Establishing Financial Bare Minimums42:16 Final Thoughts on Personal Finance resourcesThe Barefoot Investor - https://www.amazon.com.au/Barefoot-Investor-Scott-Pape/dp/0730385624Profit First - https://www.amazon.com/Profit-First-Transform-Your-Binance/dp/0735214140Morgan Housel - Psychology of Money - https://collabfund.com/blog/morgan-housel-the-psychology-of-money/Scott Pape - The Barefoot Investor - https://barefootinvestor.com/Warren Buffett Quote - https://www.investopedia.com/terms/w/warrenbuffett.aspFind out more about working with me or about applying to join the ILN. mike@smbmastery.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/https://theintentionalleaders.com/

March 18, 2026Episode 5228 min

EP52 Zone 2: The Key to Performance

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Mike and Troye delve into the concept of Zone Two training, exploring its physiological basis, benefits for both physical and mental health, and its application in business performance. They discuss how maintaining a Zone Two intensity can lead to improved cardiovascular health, better mental clarity, and a more regulated nervous system. The conversation emphasizes the importance of building capacity through consistent training and how this approach can be beneficial not only for athletes but for anyone looking to enhance their overall well-being and performance in various aspects of life.TakeawaysZone Two training is the intensity you can maintain for a long time.It helps in regulating the nervous system and reducing anxiety.Building capacity through Zone Two training is essential for performance.You can engage in Zone Two training through various activities like walking, running, or cycling.Nasal breathing is a key indicator of being in Zone Two.Zone Two training can lead to better sleep and mental clarity.It's important to avoid going too hard or too slow in training.The benefits of Zone Two training extend beyond physical fitness.A sound body and mind are crucial for success in any endeavor.Consistency in Zone Two training can lead to significant improvements over time.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Zone Two Training00:58 Understanding Zone Two Training03:55 The Importance of Zone Two Training06:54 Performance and Mental Health Benefits09:55 Zone Two in Business Context13:30 The Connection Between Physical and Mental Performance19:03 Physiology Behind Zone Two Training23:15 Practical Application of Zone Two TrainingZone Two Training, Triathlon, Physical Health, Mental Clarity, Exercise Benefits, Cardiovascular Health, Business Performance, Stress Management, Endurance Training, Healthy LifestyleFind out more about working with me or about applying to join the ILN. mike@smbmastery.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/https://theintentionalleaders.com/

March 4, 202639 min

EP51 Mastering Cash Flow for Business Success

Send us Fan MailSummaryIn this conversation, Mike and Troye delve into the critical topic of cash flow, exploring its significance in business success. They discuss the evolution of business metrics from revenue to cash flow, emphasizing the importance of understanding cash flow as a leadership and management tool. The conversation also covers practical techniques for managing cash flow, including forecasting and analyzing past cash movements. Finally, they outline seven key strategies for improving cash flow, providing actionable insights for business owners.TakeawaysRevenue means nothing without margin.Profit is important, but cash is the ultimate reality.Cash flow is the movement of cash in and out of your bank account.Understanding cash flow helps in making better business decisions.You should focus on generating free cash flow for business success.Increasing prices can be a quick way to improve cash flow.Improving debtor days can significantly impact cash flow.Cash flow management is a leadership tool, not just a finance tool.Scenario planning is essential for effective cash flow management.Building reserves gives businesses optionality and resilience.Chapters00:00 Understanding Cash Flow: The Foundation of Business Success10:38 The Evolution of Business Metrics: From Revenue to Cash Flow19:39 Measuring Cash Flow: Tools and Techniques26:21 Seven Levers to Improve Cash Flow35:25 Shifting Mindsets: From Operator to Capital Allocatorcash flow, business success, revenue, profit, financial management, leadership, cash flow management, business metrics, financial health, cash flow strategiesFind out more about working with me or about applying to join the ILN. mike@smbmastery.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/https://theintentionalleaders.com/

February 20, 2026Episode 5029 min

EP50 Is Accountability all it's cracked up to be?

Send us Fan MailSummaryIn this episode, Mike and Troye delve into the complexities of accountability and habit tracking, exploring how these concepts relate to personal growth and behavior change. They discuss the importance of environment, identity, and motivation in facilitating change, while also challenging traditional views on accountability mechanisms. The conversation emphasizes the need for a supportive environment and a clear understanding of what is at stake in order to drive meaningful behavior change.TakeawaysAccountability can be perceived differently by individuals.Setting up the right environment is crucial for behavior change.Identity plays a significant role in how we approach change.Understanding what is at stake can motivate behavior change.Habit tracking may not work for everyone; it's about finding the right mechanism.Motivation can fluctuate; it's important to recognize where you are in the change process.Behavior change often requires a gradual approach rather than a sudden shift.The people you surround yourself with influence your behavior and values.Exploring the reasons behind habits can lead to better understanding and change.Creating a framework for change involves aligning identity, environment, and motivation.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgment of Feelings02:45 Exploring Accountability and Habits05:15 The Role of Environment in Behavior Change08:09 Identity and Commitment to Change11:06 Motivation and Stages of Change13:36 The Stakes of Behavior Change16:28 Shifting Perspectives on Status and Behavior19:29 Practical Strategies for Behavior Change22:22 Conclusion and Framework for ChangeKeywordsaccountability, habit tracking, behavior change, motivation, environment, identity, personal development, mindfulness, meditation, self-improvementFind out more about working with me or about applying to join the ILN. mike@smbmastery.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/https://theintentionalleaders.com/

February 4, 2026Episode 4920 min

EP 49 The Two Timeframes That Will Make You a Better Leader

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Mike discusses the importance of focusing on two critical timeframes: the next hour and the next ten years. He shares personal anecdotes and insights on how these timeframes can guide decision-making and leadership development. By balancing immediate actions with long-term goals, individuals can enhance their leadership skills and achieve greater success.Keywordsleadership, time management, personal development, long-term goals, immediate actionsTakeawaysFocus on the next hour and the next ten years.Immediate actions should align with long-term goals.Identity statements can guide personal growth.Balancing short-term and long-term thinking is crucial.Intentional decisions enhance leadership skills.Energy management is key to success.Avoid living in reactive mode.Dreams require actionable steps.Consistency in actions leads to compounding benefits.Reflect on future self's perspective on current actions.Find out more about working with me or about applying to join the ILN. mike@smbmastery.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/https://theintentionalleaders.com/

January 21, 2026Episode 4822 min

EP48 Identity and Success - A New Perspective

Send us Fan MailSummaryIn this conversation, Troye discusses the concept of identity in relation to achieving success, using the integrator metaphor to explore personal growth and the process of experimentation in defining one's path.TakeawaysThe integrator idea serves as a metaphor for process.Identity plays a crucial role in achieving success.Personal growth involves experimentation and self-discovery.Understanding who you need to be is essential for success.Troye is excited about his new approach and its potential outcomes.The conversation emphasizes the importance of reflection over time.Success is not just about outcomes but also about the journey.Engaging in new experiments can lead to valuable insights.The idea of identity is fluid and can evolve with experiences.Troye encourages revisiting these concepts in the future.Keywordsidentity, success, integrator, process, personal growth, experimentationFind out more about working with me or about applying to join the ILN. mike@smbmastery.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/https://theintentionalleaders.com/

January 7, 2026Episode 4740 min

EP47 Navigating Overwhelm - The Clarity Principle

Send us Fan MailSummaryIn this conversation, Mike and Troye discuss the concept of overwhelm, emphasising that it is not merely about having too much to do, but rather a lack of clarity in various aspects of life. They highlight the importance of clarity of mind, systems, priorities, and action in overcoming feelings of overwhelm and achieving better outcomes.TakeawaysOverwhelm is not just about workload.Clarity is essential for effective action.Mind clarity helps in decision-making.Systems can streamline our tasks.Prioritizing tasks reduces feelings of overwhelm.Knowing the next step is crucial.A clear mindset enhances productivity.Action clarity leads to better results.Confusion arises from too many tasks.Structure in systems aids in focus.Keywordsoverwhelm, clarity, priorities, action, systems, mindsetFind out more about working with me or about applying to join the ILN. mike@smbmastery.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/https://theintentionalleaders.com/

December 17, 2025Episode 4647 min

EP46 Implementing a growth operating system with Isaiah Nolte

Send us Fan MailSummaryIn this conversation, Mike and Isaiah Nolte discuss the common challenges businesses face that prevent them from reaching their full potential. He emphasises the importance of leadership in identifying and addressing these challenges to unlock growth.TakeawaysThe results are massive when addressing business challenges.There are 15 commonalities that cause businesses to hit a ceiling.Identifying these commonalities is crucial for growth.Leadership teams play a vital role in solving these issues.Pulling the right levers can unlock business potential.Sales leadership is key to overcoming obstacles.Understanding the root causes of stagnation is essential.Entrepreneurs must be proactive in addressing challenges.Collaboration within the leadership team enhances problem-solving.Unlocking potential leads to significant business growth.Keywordsbusiness growth, leadership, sales strategy, entrepreneurship, potential unlocking, common challengesFind out more about working with me or about applying to join the ILN. mike@smbmastery.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/https://theintentionalleaders.com/