People of Performance Podcast

Hosted by Manchester SEO (MCR SEO Ltd)

Business Entrepreneurship

Website RSS feed LinkedIn

Episodes

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-GB

About the show

Connecting Technical Expertise with Human Stories! A podcast for business owners. We interview business owners about their business, how they got into it, how they grew their business, the challenges now and in the future. We also here their advice for other business owners, using their experience and everything they have learnt and been through over the years to give the viewers some valuable insights that they may be able to learn from. We've learnt a lot doing and we hope you learn something too.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 10, 20261 hr 8 min

Software Escrow for SaaS Explained: Failover, UK Data Sovereignty & Cyber Attack Lessons

Software Escrow for SaaS: Business Continuity, UK Data Sovereignty & Real-World Cyber Attack Lessons (Chris Edge & Mark Ryan)The hosts discuss software escrow and SaaS continuity with Chris Edge (Edge IT- https://edgeitsystems.com/) and Mark Ryan (SES Secure - https://www.ses-escrow.co.uk/), explaining how escrow has evolved from storing on‑prem source code to safeguarding SaaS by also capturing data, virtual machines, and validated deployment materials. They describe why cloud subscriptions still need escrow, especially if a developer or hosting provider fails, and outline a model where an escrow agent can fail over services to an alternative UK data centre for 60 days, enabling customers to keep working and download software and data with a 12‑month (or optional indefinite) license. Edge IT details hourly backups, UK sovereign hosting, and a real ransomware incident where they declined to pay, failed over to Datto, restored operations within hours, and improved procedures. The conversation highlights gaps in mandates for .gov.uk, references DORA’s resilience requirements, and emphasizes verification, zero trust security, and risk-based planning.00:00 Welcome and Guests01:30 Software Escrow Basics03:05 From On Prem to SaaS04:00 Why SaaS Still Needs Escrow06:38 Failover Plan with Datto08:35 Real World Council Hack10:37 Mandates and DORA Explained12:56 What Escrow Actually Stores15:06 Why Pen and Paper Fails18:25 Friday the 13th Cyberattack25:26 Escrow Requirements for Buyers29:30 Vendor Questions and Scoping32:00 Data Makes It Work32:22 Customer Involvement Options33:09 Choosing Escrow Providers34:31 Licenses Source Code Value36:11 Zero Trust Security Shift39:03 Edge Background Products41:32 Escrow Wins Business49:32 Release Events Explained53:03 Planning Worst Case56:09 Why Big Firms Fail01:03:11 Supply Chain Risk Reality01:07:17 Wrap Up Contact DetailsThe Episode was recorded by Recognise Media: https://recognisemedia.com/⁠ for ⁠Manchester SEO⁠⁠⁠ The episode was sponsored by: Brownies were Supplied by Bele Brownies: https://www.belebrownies.com/ ⁠⁠⁠

June 1, 2026Episode 1051 hr 8 min

Alex Moore - Reputation Management: Own the Narrative, Social Media Scandals & Cyberattacks - Ep105

Reputation & Crisis Management: Owning the Narrative, Social Media Scandals, and Cyberattacks (with Alex Moore)We welcome returning guest Alex Moore, a crisis communications expert, to discuss reputation management through recent public scandals and corporate crises. They use examples including a viral Coldplay “caught in the act” incident, Prince Andrew’s BBC interview and the resignation of his press secretary, and tactics like “dead cat” distraction, “burying bad news,” and SEO “shunting.” Alex emphasizes that silence creates a vacuum for gossip, and advises getting on the front foot: acknowledge issues, avoid repeating negatives, reframe toward strengths, and be clear on a consistent narrative grounded in values. They contrast crises you can prepare for versus sudden media deadlines, discuss communicating bad financial results, and note how mishandling often becomes the bigger problem. They also cover social media’s speed, fragile trust, AI deepfakes, and praise Marks & Spencer’s disciplined response to a major cyberattack.00:00 Welcome Back Intro01:00 Coldplay Kiss Scandal02:12 Silence Versus Response05:21 Prince Andrew Interview09:13 Online Reputation Tactics12:57 Handling Bad Reviews13:27 Crisis Types And Prep17:19 Explaining A Bad Year23:07 Reputation Value And Shields26:13 Data Breach Owning Narrative29:17 Media Questions Discipline30:39 Sports Press Lessons31:43 Ashes Accountability Debate34:59 Learning From Mistakes35:40 Truth in Social Media38:48 AI and Deepfake Fears39:55 Consistency Builds Trust42:33 Staying in Your Lane43:51 M&S Cyberattack Response46:27 Pragmatic Crisis Playbook49:49 Emotion First Messaging57:27 When Handling Becomes Scandal58:52 Politics Raises the Stakes01:03:08 Preparation and Reputation Bank01:06:12 Gritstone Strategy Origins01:08:05 Closing Banter and ThanksEditing for Manchester SEO

May 28, 202658 min

Steve Lowndes What’s Wrong in Sales: Stop Pitching, Start Challenging, & Create Urgency - EP 104

Steve Lowndes on What’s Going Wrong in Sales: Stop Pitching, Start Challenging, and Create UrgencyIn this podcast episode, returning guest Steve Lowndes explains his credibility as a sales trainer through 30+ years in sales, 15 years working with businesses and sales teams, experience with tens of thousands of salespeople, and co-authoring Transformational Selling with Bryn Thompson. The discussion critiques lazy, high-volume automated outreach and argues for targeted, human-to-human selling supported (not replaced) by tools like AI. Steve outlines five common sales mistakes: pitching too soon instead of being truly consultative; trying too hard to please and losing balance of power (including preventing proposal “ghosting” by requiring meetings); focusing on ROI without emphasizing cost of inaction to create urgency; lacking transparency by pretending solutions are perfect; and making pitches about the company rather than the buyer’s problem and outcomes.00:00 Welcome Back Steve00:38 Sales Trainer Credibility03:14 Why Skills Slip Live04:35 Automated Outreach Rant07:01 Human First Selling09:50 Five Sales Blockers11:51 Mistake One Pitching Early14:50 Why We Pitch Too Soon19:14 Mistake Two People Pleasing21:26 Stop Getting Ghosted25:50 Proposal Pushback Story29:22 ROI Without Urgency32:22 Creating Urgency Now32:41 Cost of Inaction Framework35:47 Lottery Ticket Lesson37:23 Ask COI Questions39:26 Transparency Beats Hype44:22 Sell Trust Not SEO47:43 Stop Talking About You52:24 Better Outreach Emails55:19 Thread That Ties It57:09 Closing ReflectionsThe Episode was recorded by Recognise Media for ⁠Manchester SEO⁠

May 20, 2026Episode 10346 min

Hair Loss Is About Identity - Revolution in Hair Transplant Aftercare - Anne-Marie Barlow - Ep 103

In this episode we're joined by Ann Marie Barlow, founder of ModYu (https://modyu.com/) and creator of HT4, the first scalp care system built exclusively for hair transplant patients, a revolution in hair transplant aftercare. Born into a family of hairdressers, Ann Marie's passion for hair loss began during her time working with Trevor Sorbie and completing the My New Hair course. In this conversation she unpacks what most clinics get wrong about aftercare, why scalp health is the missing link in long-term transplant results, and how ModYu is raising standards for stylists, surgeons, and patients alike.We cover:Why hair is about identity, confidence, and well-being, not just appearanceThe gap in the market that led to the creation of HT4What patients aren't told about the first 12 months post-transplantHow clinics and stylists can work together to improve outcomesBuilding a brand around community, creativity, and care00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro00:27 What Is HT402:21 Hair Industry Roots03:44 Modern Transplant Standards05:15 From Wigs to Aftercare Idea07:57 Hair Loss Journey Reality09:55 Choosing the Right Clinic11:03 How HT4 Works13:14 Phases 1 and 2 Prep15:24 Phases 3 and 4 Recovery17:52 Feedback and Hero Products19:29 Emotional Side of Hair Loss22:51 Lockdown Spark24:19 Finding Cosmetic Labs25:27 Building Seven Products26:47 Imposter Syndrome Wins27:34 Berlin Launch Feedback29:16 Clinics vs Patients31:06 Aftercare Consistency Gap32:22 Parenting and Pace36:25 Life Threads Connect39:52 Travel Mindset Shift43:03 Late Night Work Ritual43:36 Global Growth and Partners45:01 How to Get Started46:06 Closing ThanksWhether you're a clinician, stylist, or someone navigating hair loss yourself, this is a conversation packed with insight from one of the most thoughtful voices in modern hair care.🔗 Learn more about ModYu: https://modyu.com🔗 Connect with Ann Marie on LinkedIn👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more expert conversations.The Episode was recorded by Recognise Media: https://recognisemedia.com/⁠ for ⁠Manchester SEO⁠The episode was sponsored by: Brownies were Supplied by Bele Brownies: https://www.belebrownies.com/ ⁠⁠⁠

May 14, 2026Episode 10253 min

Face to Face Marketing in a Digital Age: Nick Wroe, Founder of Platform81 - Ep102

In this episode, we sit down with Nick Wroe, Founder and Sales Director of Platform81, an award-winning digital marketing and design agency based in Stockport. With over 18 years of experience helping businesses craft powerful digital strategies, Nick shares what it really takes to build a brand that people want, not just one they settle for.We dive into:How Platform81 grew from the ground up into a full-service digital agencyWhy desirability is the true differentiator in today's competitive landscapeThe mindset behind building lasting client partnershipsLessons from 18+ years in digital marketing, SEO, web design, and brandingWhat it means to be "design inspired, mission driven"Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or entrepreneur looking to level up your digital presence, this conversation is packed with straight-talking, actionable insight.🔔 Subscribe for more founder stories and digital marketing insights.🌐 Find out more about Platform81: www.platform81.com📱 Connect with Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-wroe-149527b/🎙️ Subscribe so you never miss an episode👍 Like the video if you enjoyed it💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments belowThe Episode was recorded by Recognise Media⁠ for ⁠Manchester SEO⁠ The episode was sponsored by: Brownies were Supplied by Bele Brownies: https://www.belebrownies.com/ ⁠⁠⁠

April 29, 2026Episode 10155 min

Building a Community by Simply Being Yourself - Liv Bythell Ep101

Living Life as a “Cricket Widow” with Liv Bythell | Building the Cricket Widow Club CommunityIn this podcast episode, Liv Bythell shares how she started her Instagram “Livstyle Lifestyle” (https://www.instagram.com/livstylelifestyle/) nearly two years ago after changing jobs from being a PE teacher and during a challenging period that included counselling and navigating an eight-year relationship with a cricketer. A post about being a “cricket widow” sparked a huge response from others who related to the sacrifices of cricket seasons, long days at matches, frequent travel, and overseas stints that can leave partners feeling alone. Liv explains how the account evolved into the Cricket Widow Club, including meetups like the Otley Run that led to selling “Cricket Widow Club” caps and launching merch, and how she’s building an online community, events, and softball festivals via thecricketwidowclub.com. She emphasizes honesty, support networks, balancing club life with personal plans, and having clear conversations about expectations.Timestamps:00:00 Podcast intro00:20 Why she started Instagram01:38 Cricket widow reality04:11 Long distance seasons07:52 Account finds its niche09:19 Storytelling and honesty11:29 Caps that sold out13:50 Clubs and community19:05 What’s next for the club23:11 Handling negativity online27:13 Weddings And Seasons28:09 Commitment To Teams30:25 Training And Form Slumps31:08 Learning Cricket Skills34:24 Cricket Widow Club37:02 Advice For Cricket Widows40:03 Expectations And Communication45:50 Starting A Content Page51:00 Looking Back And Community52:58 Why Cricket Helps Kids54:41 Final Thanks And Wrap

April 22, 2026Episode 1001 hr 10 min

Justin Moorhouse on Comedy as a Business, ADHD, Phoenix Nights & Building an Audience Today - Ep 100

Comedian Justin Moorhouse on Comedy as a Business, ADHD, Phoenix Nights & Building an Audience TodayIn this podcast episode, the host interviews comedian Justin Moorhouse (known for Phoenix Nights/“Young Kenny”) about comedy as a business and how it has changed. Justin outlines his current work mix-tour shows, clubs, podcasts, brand work, voiceovers, and corporate hosting. He discusses imposter syndrome, a mental-health wobble during the pandemic, his later-life ADHD diagnosis, and how it reframed his past: a bright childhood, leaving school at 16 with no qualifications, and cycling through 38 jobs before starting stand-up in 1999. He recalls early breaks including Peter Kay casting him and winning the City Life Comedian of the Year, leading to Comedy Store representation. He compares UK/US comedy paths, explains today’s social-media-driven industry, and shares plans to film better clips, write a new show, and develop a sitcom while focusing on wellbeing routines.Find out where Justin is performing next at: https://www.justinmoorhouse.com/Timestamps:00:00 Podcast Welcome Guest Intro01:31 Comedy As A Business01:56 Income Streams Explained04:08 Imposter Syndrome ADHD07:44 Childhood School Struggles11:54 Finding Standup Comedy13:55 First Gigs Nerves15:43 Big Break Phoenix Nights20:17 Hard Work Career Momentum23:07 Looking For Eric Experience24:26 Ken Loach Filmmaking Style29:45 Phoenix Nights Legacy30:42 Face Paint Stories32:40 Viral Fame Versus Craft33:23 Crowd Work Debate34:07 UK Fringe Versus US Road35:55 Warm Crowd Work Magic37:23 Filming Clips Strategy40:00 Cracking Social Algorithms41:47 Followers Drive Bookings44:49 Authenticity And Audience45:27 Suburban Ticket Insights47:29 Next Career Goals49:34 Why Not Film This Show50:47 Peak Highs And Lows53:27 Stage Skills For Business56:35 You Have To Do Comedy58:11 Running Comedy Like Business01:00:20 ADHD Habits And Systems01:00:51 Bullet Journal Wins01:02:56 Fitness Routine Reset01:06:22 Future Tours And Projects01:07:50 Comedy Heroes Then Now01:10:26 Final Thanks And Wrap🎙️ Subscribe so you never miss an episode👍 Like the video if you enjoyed it💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments belowThe Episode was recorded by Recognise Media: https://recognisemedia.com/⁠ for ⁠Manchester SEO⁠The episode was sponsored by: Brownies were Supplied by Bele Brownies: https://www.belebrownies.com/ ⁠⁠⁠

April 15, 2026Episode 991 hr 7 min

How Egypt became a Tech Powerhouse - Saqaya - Gareth Jones & Saif Fouda - Episode 99

Episode 99 is a special one. I sit down with Gareth Jones and Saif Fouda, Co-founder of SAQAYA (https://saqaya.com/), the nearshore product engineering company putting Egypt firmly on the global tech map. We dig into how SAQAYA is delivering world-class engineering talent at a fraction of Western European costs, why Egypt is set to become the go-to nearshore destination, and what it really takes to build high-performing teams across borders. But we also go way back, Gareth was our manager many moons ago, at Rullion Computer Personnel, and we're not shy about reminiscing on the early days of tech recruitment, what we learned, and how those roots shaped everything that came after. Old colleagues, new horizons.🎙️ Subscribe so you never miss an episode👍 Like the video if you enjoyed it💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments belowThe Episode was recorded by Recognise Media: https://recognisemedia.com/⁠ for ⁠Manchester SEO⁠The episode was sponsored by: Brownies were Supplied by Bele Brownies: https://www.belebrownies.com/ ⁠⁠⁠

April 13, 2026Episode 9857 min

What Makes a Comedian? Andy Kind on Comedy, Writing & Life Podcast Episode 98

Andy Kind is one of the UK's funniest comedians, but there's a lot more going on beneath the punchlines. In this episode, we sit down with Andy for a wide-ranging conversation covering his comedy career, life behind the mic, his writing, and a whole lot in between. Expect laughs, honesty, and the kind of chat you wish you could have down the pub.🎙️ Subscribe so you never miss an episode👍 Like the video if you enjoyed it💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments belowThe Episode was recorded by Recognise Media for ⁠Manchester SEOThe episode was sponsored by: Brownies were Supplied by Bele Brownies: https://www.belebrownies.com/ ⁠⁠⁠

April 1, 2026Episode 9652 min

Michael Ross - Award-Winning Author, KETTFusion Founder & Story of Survival - Episode 96

In this episode, we're joined by Michael Ross, multi-award-winning author of The Wand Chronicles and Just Five More Minutes, founder of fitness brand KETTFusion, actor, martial artist, and internationally exhibiting fine artist.Michael shares the story behind Just Five More Minutes, his award-winning audiobook about losing his wife to murder in 1994 and navigating grief as a single father through a year-long police investigation and trial.We explore his remarkable career across the arts, athletics, and entrepreneurship, and how resilience has been the common thread throughout his life.Topics covered:- The murder of his wife in 1994 and its aftermath- Writing Just Five More Minutes and why he chose to share his story- The creation of The Wand Chronicles fantasy saga- Founding KETTFusion and growing it across the UK and Europe- His career in acting, martial arts, and fine artFind his books here:- https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Michael-Ross/author/B075PGWMSK?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true- Just Five More Minutes - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Just-Five-More-Minutes-Michael/dp/197311982XKETTfusion:http://www.kettfusion.com/🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of business.The Episode was recorded by Recognise Media⁠ for ⁠Manchester SEO⁠The episode was sponsored by: Brownies were Supplied by Bele Brownies: https://www.belebrownies.com/ ⁠⁠⁠