Strength In Numbers

Hosted by Jason Topp

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Latest episode

Aug 2024

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EN-NZ

About the show

This is Strength In Numbers, where real business owners share their raw, unfiltered stories. I'm Jason Topp, your host from SMYD Accounting & Advisory, bringing you the incredible journeys of remarkable individuals we've been fortunate to work with. Join us as we delve into the highs, lows, victories, and setbacks of entrepreneurship across diverse industries. We even touch on juggling parenthood and business, as well as working with your significant other. Discover the strategies, the support networks, and the resilience that fuel these journeys, with new episodes every Thursday on your favourite podcast platforms. Follow us on Instagram @smyd.nz for more inspiration, motivation, and the assurance that you're not alone in your entrepreneurial voyage.

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23 recent

August 7, 2024Episode 1058 min

Balancing Business and Family: Real Stories of Partnership and Growing a Business from the Women Behind the Scenes

In the final episode of Season 2 of 'Strength in Numbers,' host Jason Topp from SMYD Accounting / Advisory chats with Leah, SMYD's marketing director and Jason's wife, along with long-time friend Abby Linn from Rhombus Construction. The episode delves into the fascinating dynamics of working with a spouse in business. Abby shares her experience transitioning from a career in psychology to joining her husband Matt's construction business, highlighting the support system and challenges encountered. Leah shares her journey of pivoting from public relations to significantly contributing to building their accounting firm. Both women discuss overcoming imposter syndrome, balancing work-life with family responsibilities, and the importance of taking breaks. Their stories offer inspiration and practical advice for anyone navigating similar paths in family-run businesses. Abby - Rhombus Website Instagram Facebook Leah - SMYD Accounting / Advisory Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to the Final Episode of Season Two 00:35 Introducing Today's Guests -"The Work Wives" 00:56 Leah and Abby's Backgrounds 01:42 The Transition to Business Partnership 01:59 How Leah and Abby Met 03:14 Balancing Business and Personal Life 04:15 Proving Their Worth 05:54 Challenges and Growth 08:48 Stepping into Leadership Roles 12:51 Owning Their Roles 19:51 Hiring and Expanding the Team 25:14 Advice for Couples in Business 30:34 The Office Transition: From Home to Headquarters 31:42 Balancing Work and Family Life 32:41 Creating Boundaries in Business 35:39 Taking Time Off: The Importance of Holidays 38:18 Defining Roles in the Business 41:12 Women in Business: Challenges and Triumphs 46:02 Reflecting on Growth and Success 54:00 Acknowledging Support and Teamwork 58:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

July 31, 2024Episode 946 min

The Resilient Journey of Bear & Moo: A Conversation with Hannah Porter

In this episode of 'Strength in Numbers,' host Jason Topp sits down with Hannah Porter, the founder of Bear & Moo, an eco-friendly parenting brand based in Hamilton. Launched in 2018, Bear & Moo offers affordable reusable cloth nappies and other baby products. Hannah shares her story from her university days to becoming an accidental entrepreneur driven by a passion for reducing waste and saving money. The discussion delves into the challenges of starting and growing a business, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how she built a loyal customer base through authenticity on social media. Hannah also talks about the importance of balancing work and family, the value of having a strong support network, and strategic decisions that have helped sustain her business. Bear and Moo Website Instagram Facebook SMYD Accounting / Advisory Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to Season Two 00:38 Meet Hannah Porter of Bear and Moo 01:27 University Days and Early Ambitions 03:18 The Birth of Bear and Moo 04:30 The Cloth Nappy Journey 07:35 Starting the Business 12:12 Navigating Social Media and Community Building 18:21 COVID-19 Impact and Business Growth 24:06 Connecting with Customers and Social Media Impact 26:30 Balancing Work and Family Life 27:44 The Importance of Support Systems 32:49 Setting Boundaries in Business 34:54 Strategic Business Growth 38:54 Overcoming Financial Challenges 45:05 Looking Forward with Optimism 46:08 Conclusion and Gratitude

July 24, 2024Episode 850 min

Cultivating Confidence Through Personal Style: Insights into business and fashion with Caitlin Taylor - The Style Coach

In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Jason Topp from SMYD Accounting Advisory welcomes Caitlin Taylor, a personal stylist and style coach with over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry. Caitlin shares her unique approach to styling by combining her expertise in psychology and passion for fashion with an emphasis on body positivity and confidence. She discusses her personalized styling packages, wardrobe audits, and virtual consultations, as well as hosting events and working with both individual and corporate clients. They also explore the dynamics of building a supportive business network, citing Caitlin's involvement with the Venus network as a pivotal factor in her business growth. Balancing work and family life is another topic of discussion, where Caitlin outlines her strategies for organizing her schedule to give her best to her clients while managing family responsibilities. Looking ahead, Caitlin reveals her exciting future plans, including writing a book that encapsulates her extensive knowledge and practical advice on styling. Caitlin Taylor - The Style Coach Website Instagram Facebook SMYD Accounting / Advisory Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Season Two 00:37 Meet Caitlin Taylor: Personal Stylist and Style Coach 03:36 Caitlin's Journey and Philosophy 04:50 The Importance of Mindset in Style 11:21 Shopping Smarter: Conscious Purchasing Decisions 15:51 Building a Community and Business Growth 22:44 The Style Circle Membership 28:12 Creating a Comfortable Environment 28:33 Journey to Body Confidence 28:42 Impact of Parental Influence 29:29 Body Neutrality vs. Body Positivity 30:43 Raising Body-Positive Children 31:58 Client Struggles and Support 33:51 Balancing Work and Family Life 36:45 Fashion Trends and Personal Style 46:57 Future Plans and Aspirations 49:27 Conclusion and Contact Information

July 17, 2024Episode 739 min

Navigating Wellness and Entrepreneurship with Sara Higgins from HANA

In this episode of Strength in Numbers, host Jason Topp speaks with Sara Higgins, founder of HANA, a health and wellness company. Sara shares her transition from a pharmacist to a wellness entrepreneur, driven by her personal health challenges. The episode explores her journey in establishing HANA, which offers infrared saunas, ice baths, red light therapy, and other holistic treatments. Sara discusses her commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, emphasizing the importance of holistic wellness and educating the community. The conversation also delves into navigating business challenges, including the impact of COVID-19, and how Sara has built a supportive team to help grow her business. Sara Higgins - HANA Website Instagram Facebook SMYD Accounting / Advisory Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Season Two 00:37 Meet Sara Higgins from HANA 01:24 Sara's Journey to Wellness 03:01 The Birth of HANA 04:43 HANA's Offerings and Benefits 06:00 The Science Behind Infrared Saunas and Ice Baths 07:01 The Holistic Approach to Wellness 17:43 Personal Wellness and Business Challenges 20:17 Navigating Business Challenges During COVID-19 20:36 Personal Stress and Coping Mechanisms 21:35 The Importance of Outdoor Time and Relocation 22:09 Starting a Business During Lockdown 24:41 Expanding the Business and Team 29:01 Adapting and Innovating in Business 32:20 Future Plans and Industry Trends 36:39 Advice for Starting a Wellness Journey 37:29 Contact Information and Final Thoughts

July 10, 2024Episode 644 min

Passion and Purpose: Building a Homecare Business with Janelle from Abode Homecare

In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Jason sits down with Janelle Ellis, the founder of Abode Homecare. Janelle shares her journey from nursing to creating a comprehensive in-home care service aimed at supporting individuals and families with personalized care. They discuss the unique challenges and successes she has faced, the importance of maintaining client-centered care, and the special bond formed with clients. Janelle also touches on the balance between being a business owner and a mother, the future growth plans for Abode Homecare, and the critical role of nurses in providing compassionate care. This episode is about the heartfelt and impactful work of Abode Homecare and serves as an inspiration for aspiring business owners in the healthcare sector. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:37 Meet Janelle Ellis of Abode Homecare 02:09 The Birth of Abode Homecare 03:48 Challenges and Growth 06:52 Balancing Business and Personal Life 09:26 The Importance of Independence and Quality Care 14:36 Staffing and Business Philosophy 19:22 Future of Homecare and Business Advice 23:10 Balancing Work and Family Life 23:41 Understanding Loss and Grief 24:12 Children's Perception of Work 25:16 The Impact of Palliative Care 30:11 Personal Near-Death Experience 33:36 Starting and Running a Business 42:01 Supporting Nurses and Healthcare Workers 43:19 Conclusion and Farewell

July 3, 2024Episode 540 min

Empowering Business Growth Through Expertise and Values with Chris from Daring Digital

Empowering Business Growth Through Expertise and Values with Chris from Daring Digital In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Jason catches up with Christine Rogers about her entrepreneurial journey as the founder of digital marketing agency Daring Digital. Chris shares her transition from television script writer to digital marketing expert, freelancing, and eventually building her thriving agency. She discusses her strategic approach, the importance of specialization, and the necessity of a supportive team and leadership coaching. Chris also emphasizes the importance of maintaining values, setting boundaries, and nurturing both clients and her team. Chris's resilience and innovative mindset have propelled Daring Digital to success. Daring Digital Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn SMYD Accounting / Advisory Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Season Two 00:37 Meet Christine Rogers from Daring Digital 01:23 Chris's Journey into Digital Marketing 02:54 Starting Daring Digital 03:38 Balancing Work and Personal Life 04:07 Building a Resilient Business During Lockdown 05:37 Managing and Growing a Team 13:37 The Importance of Values in Business 18:35 What is Digital Marketing? 20:23 Defining Your Marketing Objectives 20:40 The Role of Social Media in Client Nurturing 21:36 Building a Comprehensive Marketing Ecosystem 22:52 Understanding Daring Digital's Services 24:32 The Importance of Specialization 29:01 Strategies for Social Media Success 35:41 Maintaining Boundaries and Values in Business 39:06 Contacting Daring Digital 40:04 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

June 26, 2024Episode 436 min

The Art of Authentic Brand Photography with She Shoots

The Art of Authentic Brand Photography with SheShoots In this episode of Strength in Numbers, Jason sits down with Nykie Grove-Eades and Helen Dol, the talented photography duo behind SheShoots, Personal Branding Photography. They delve into their journeys in photography, the organic growth of their partnership in business, and the importance of authentic brand photography. Nykie and Helen discuss how they bring out the true essence of individuals and businesses through their empathetic and creative approach. They also share insights on working effectively as a team, overcoming challenges like anxiety to build positive and creative environments for their clients, and the significance of showing genuine, human elements in brand imagery to connect better with current or potential clients and stand out in the market. SheShoots Website Instagram Facebook SMYD Accounting / Advisory Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to Season Two 00:35 Meet the Dynamic Duo: Nikki and Helen 01:45 Nikki's Journey into Photography 02:32 Helen's Path to Photography 03:42 The Birth of SheShoots 06:01 The Essence of Brand Photography 08:39 Creating Authentic Brand Images 12:40 The Importance of Innovation 19:04 Connecting Through Photography 19:32 The Importance of Comfort in Brand Photography 22:22 The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Photography 24:46 Navigating Business Challenges 26:24 Networking and Business Growth 28:27 Advice for Aspiring Photographers 29:10 The Power of Authenticity 29:39 Overcoming Anxiety in Photography 33:45 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

June 19, 2024Episode 345 min

Fostering Outdoor Connections and Wellbeing with Michelle Morpeth

Fostering Outdoor Connections and Wellbeing with Michelle Morpeth In the latest episode of 'Strength in Numbers,' Jason catches up with Michelle Morpeth, founder of Outdoorsy. Michelle shares her journey from starting a blog to creating an extensive online community of nearly 12,000 members focused on outdoor activities and wellbeing, particularly for mothers. They discuss Michelle's various initiatives, including membership events, retreats, and workplace wellbeing seminars, all aimed at encouraging people to benefit from spending time in nature. The conversation delves into the importance of outdoor activities for mental health, connection, and productivity, providing practical advice for integrating more nature into daily life and fostering better relationships. Whether for mums, business owners, or workplace communities, Michelle's insights on balancing life through outdoor experiences offer inspiration and practical tips for everyone. Michelle Morpeth - Outdoorsy Website Instagram Facebook SMYD Accounting / Advisory Website Instagram Facebook Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Season Two 00:37 Meet Michelle Morpeth from Outdoorsy 01:38 Michelle's Journey to Creating Outdoorsy 04:38 The Growth of Outdoorsy 05:59 Upcoming Events and Collaborations 12:10 The Importance of Mom's Wellbeing 18:09 Building Connections Through Nature 21:53 Tips for Starting Outdoor Adventures with Kids 23:53 Challenges of Parenting and Nature's Role 25:05 Impact of Outdoor Activities on Families 26:37 Workplace Wellbeing and Confidence 29:38 The Science Behind Nature's Benefits 38:18 Practical Tips for Integrating Nature 41:31 Future Vision and Final Thoughts

June 12, 2024Episode 242 min

Building a Successful Construction Business: The Journey of Rhombus with Abby and Matt Linn

Building a Successful Construction Business: The Journey of Rhombus with Abby and Matt Linn In this episode of 'Strength in Numbers,' we welcome Abby and Matt from Rhombus Construction to discuss the evolution of their business from its humble beginnings to its current success. Matt recounts his unconventional path into the trades and how late career decisions and a strong partnership with Abby fueled their business growth. We delve into the significance of building strong relationships within your industry, handling financial responsibilities with care, and maintaining a focus on quality and service in every project. Moreover, they touch on personal aspects such as work-life balance, the role of professional mental health support in managing the stresses of business ownership, and the dynamic of working as a husband-wife team. The conversation also explores challenges, the importance of mentorship, and how Abby's shift to a director role was pivotal for their success. They emphasize the value of teamwork, resilience, and strategic planning in business. The episode is a rich narrative of perseverance, collaboration, and the pursuit of business excellence in the construction industry. Links Rhombus Construction Website Instagram Facebook SMYD Accounting / Advisory Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Season Two 00:35 Meet Abby and Matt Linn 01:34 Matt's Unconventional Path to Construction 03:40 Starting Rhombus Construction 06:51 Abby's Background and Role 12:10 Challenges and Growth 20:49 Team Dynamics and Culture 25:11 Balancing Family and Business 26:54 Owning Their Roles 29:14 Conclusion and Reflections

June 5, 2024Episode 150 min

Elevating Leadership Through Coaching and Connection with Aleisha Coote from The Coaching Tools Shop

Elevating Leadership Through Coaching and Connection This episode of Strength In Numbers features a deep dive into the world of leadership coaching with Aleisha from The Coaching Tools Shop. The discussion revolves around Aleisha's unique journey from a background in communications to becoming a revered leadership development consultant. We touch upon the essence of leadership coaching, its importance in business, plus we explore various facets such as the impact of personal growth and self-awareness on effective leadership. Aleisha shares insights into practical frameworks like Cynefin and DiSC and how we can use them to help understand decision-making and team dynamics. The episode also highlights the significance of stepping away from traditional work environments to foster creative thinking, as exemplified by the upcoming SMYD Slack Time retreat in Fiji. Furthermore, Aleisha discusses the creation and global reach of the Coaching Tools Shop, emphasizing the universal need for meaningful conversations and coaching resources. Rich with anecdotes, advice on cultivating a growth mindset, and strategies to balance the 'mechanics' and 'dynamics' of running a business, this is an episode not to be missed! Links: Aleisha Coote Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn SMYD Accounting / Advisory Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Season Two 00:37 Meet Aleisha Coote: From Communications to Coaching 02:09 Aleisha's Early Life and Career Journey 06:48 The Essence of Leadership Coaching 13:39 The Cynefin Framework Explained 20:59 Navigating Complexity in Leadership 26:47 Evolving Leadership Models 27:24 Empathy and Curiosity in Leadership 29:32 Transformational Team Dynamics 34:43 The Coaching Tools Shop Journey 40:33 Balancing Business Mechanics and Dynamics 43:21 Upcoming Slack Time retreat for business owners in Fiji 48:21 Conclusion and Contact Information