Success Means Business

Hosted by Nicola Sands

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Jun 2026

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About the show

On Success Means Business, Journalist and Entrepreneur Nicola Sands speaks to people who have shown tremendous dedication to reach success in their field. In each episode, Nicola uncovers the stories, challenges and triumphs of remarkable people who have carved their path to success through determination, resilience and unwavering commitment. The candid conversations that Nicola has with her guests provide insights into their strategies, setbacks and pivotal moments that have shaped their journeys. Prepare to be motivated and inspired by the multifaceted nature of success and the many ways it can be achieved when you really mean business. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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18 recent

June 3, 202643 min

How To Build An AI Business In 2026 - Travis Ralph-Donaldson

In this episode,  @Nicola-Sands  sits down with AI founder Travis Ralph-Donaldson to unpack what's really happening beneath the hype of artificial intelligence and where the biggest opportunities are emerging for founders and businesses in 2026.From the future of on-device AI to why outcomes matter more than features, Travis shares the lessons he's learned building AI platform Niter and explains how AI is rapidly levelling the playing field for a new generation of entrepreneurs.Whether you're building a startup, exploring AI for your business or simply trying to understand where technology is heading next, this conversation offers practical insights into the future of AI, innovation and entrepreneurship.Subscribe for more conversations with founders, leaders and innovators shaping the future of business. #ai #Manchester #technology #podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

April 6, 202650 min

The Hidden Wealth In Your Creative Business (That You're Ignoring) - Erica Wolfe-Murray

In this episode of Success Means Business, Nicola Sands sits down with leading business and innovation expert Erica Wolfe-Murray.Erica's ability to help hundreds of small businesses grow with innovative and varied ideas has earned her a reputation as the 'Delia' of business.Her impressive background as a creative leader and financial director has given her a unique perspective and when it comes to building a business, she's a true powerhouse.One of Erica's key skills is helping businesses to discover the hidden wealth in their company that exists in intellectual property that many business owners often overlook.This episode is packed with insights about her journey, solid advice for anyone wanting to grow their business and some of the smartest ways to outsmart your competitors and fall back in love with what you do.Follow Nicola on Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/nicolasands70https://www.instagram.com/appleheadmediahttps://www.instagram.com/successmeansbusinesshttps://linkedin.com/in/nicola-sands-10604a90https://x.com/nicolasands1Erica's book "Simple Tips Smart Ideas " can be purchased from https://www.lola-media.co.ukFollow Erica on Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/ericawolfemurray/linkedin.com/in/erica-wolfe-murray-a3533016Website: https://www.lola-media.co.ukemail : info@lola-media.co.ukProduced by Applehead Media Creative Studios - develop your own video podcast with us:https://www.appleheadmedia.co.ukemail - studio@appleheadmedia.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

December 15, 20251 hr 22 min

How To Build A Business That Thrives Without You And Exit Big - Entrepreneur James Ashford

In this episode of Success Means Business,  @Nicola-Sands  sits down with James Ashford, founder of GoProposal, about his journey from running a marketing agency to creating a software business he sold for a major exit.James shares practical strategies and personal insights such as overcoming pricing challenges, how to productise services and how to feel confident with pricing conversations.He also talks about scaling for growth and how to turn bespoke offerings into scalable systems that help to prepare your business for acquisition.In this candid conversation, James also opens up about the realities of being an entrepreneur. He talks about managing self-doubt, imposter syndrome and the emotional transition after selling a business.The insights he provides are valuable lessons in balancing ambition with family, leveraging technology/AI and cultivating 'unlimited thinking' for success.James is also writing his third book about how to scale fast and exit to guide entrepreneurs through building strong foundations, scaling efficiently and planning exits with confidence.Whether you're building your first business or preparing for your next big exit, this episode is full of actionable advice, inspiration and behind-the-scenes insights from someone who's been there.Follow Nicola on Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/nicolasands70https://www.instagram.com/appleheadmediahttps://www.instagram.com/successmeansbusinesshttps://linkedin.com/in/nicola-sands-10604a90https://x.com/nicolasands1Follow James on Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/thejamesashfordhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesashfordWebsite: www.jamesashford.comemail : james@jamesashford.comProduced by Applehead Media Creative Studios - develop your own video podcast with us:https://www.appleheadmedia.co.ukemail - studio@appleheadmedia.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

December 1, 202536 min

How To Network Successfully: Dos & Don'ts With Cheshire Business Connector Joanna Scott Aspray

In this episode of Success Means Business  @Nicola-Sands  sits down with Joanna Scott-Aspray, CEO of The Cheshire Club, one of the region's most renowned and rapidly expanding business network groups.If you've ever wondered how to walk into a room full of strangers and walk out with opportunities, friendships or even a little magic, this episode is for you.Joanna shares the honest truth about what makes networking actually work: the relaxed atmosphere, the genuine conversations and the courage to simply listen.From hilarious don't like shoving business cards at people, to the transformative power of authentic relationships, Joanna reveals the art of connecting without the awkwardness.She also opens up about the challenges of growing a fast-expanding networking brand, navigating personal hardship whilst running a business and why visibility, confidence and community matter more now than ever.Whether you're an introvert, an extrovert, a business owner or someone who's just curious about how connections shape success, Joanna's wisdom will leave you inspired, empowered and ready to enter the right rooms with the right mindset.It's a conversation that's honest, uplifting and full of actionable networking gold! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

November 2, 202542 min

Stop Taking Every Client! The Smart Way to Grow Your Agency With Jonathan Leafe.

In this episode of Success Means Business,  @Nicola-Sands  sits down with agency founder, bestselling author, and leading business coach Jonathan Leafe to uncover the real truth about running a creative agency.From the accidental beginnings of many agencies to the systems, strategies, and mindset shifts that drive real growth, Jonathan shares candid insights every agency owner needs to hear.We explore:Why most agencies fail - and how to avoid itThe hidden power of operational systems and processesHow to adapt in an AI-driven world without losing the human touchWhether you’re building your first agency or planning your exit, this episode is packed with practical strategies and hard-earned wisdom to future-proof your business.If you want to thrive in the creative industry, this is one conversation you can’t afford to miss.You can purchase Jonathan's latest book "I'm an Agency Owner, Get Me Out Of Here!" with this link https://amzn.eu/d/enfJNfGWatch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/g_wfwk0zGJcFollow Nicola on Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/nicolasands70https://www.instagram.com/appleheadmediahttps://www.instagram.com/successmeansbusinesshttps://linkedin.com/in/nicola-sands-10604a90https://x.com/nicolasands1Produced by Applehead Media Creative Studios - develop your own video podcast with us:https://www.appleheadmedia.co.ukemail - studio@appleheadmedia.co.ukFollow Jonathan on Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/jonathanleafehttp://linkedin.com/in/jonathanleafe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

July 21, 202546 min

Leadership Expert Blaire Palmer

Blaire Palmer is one of the UK's top leadership coaches, a best selling author and a keynote speaker. She works with organisations and individuals to help them drive real change in their businesses and create places where people can come and do their best work.In this episode, Blaire talks to Nicola Sands about the many challenges of leadership in an ever-changing landscape as well as the incredible opportunities that are currently presenting themselves.The world has changed so much in recent years that if we want to create a vibrant company where our people are solving complex problems, stepping up and taking ownership and giving us the edge in a tough market, we need to rethink what it means to lead today.This insightful conversation explores how to engage and motivate people, how to improve retention, attract the right talent and confidently lead through change.Blaire draws on her real experiences working with businesses across different sectors to present a new kind of leadership that is based on authentic human connection, trust, empowerment and continual innovation.If leadership is part of your role, this is a conversation you won't want to miss!You can purchase Blaire's book with this link https://amzn.to/4lE3NRpFollow Nicola on Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/nicolasands70https://www.instagram.com/appleheadmediahttps://www.instagram.com/successmeansbusinesshttps://linkedin.com/in/nicola-sands-10604a90https://x.com/nicolasands1Produced by Applehead Media Creative Studios - develop your own video podcast with us:https://www.appleheadmedia.co.ukemail - studio@appleheadmedia.co.ukFollow Blaire on Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/blairepalmercoachhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/Blaire Palmer00:00 Intro to Blaire Palmer02:10 How I started my career06:46 The people I work with10:02 How leadership is changing16:08 Working from home20:20 The importance of connection25:00 Stop thinking, just do29:00 Women in male industries33:30 Avoiding burnout36:00 The new opportunities39:00 Presenting yourself43:31 Plans for the future Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

April 16, 202540 min

Financial Awakening With Self-Made Millionaire Diane Watson

Diane Watson is an award-winning entrepreneur, leading financial advisor and best selling-author. In this episode, Diane talks about her own path to success and how sheer determination and focus took her from humble beginnings to tremendous success in a male dominated environment. Diane has been a practising financial planner since 1994 and grown a successful business whilst balancing family life. She understands first hand the challenges and pitfalls of being a successful female leader and also how it can feel to to show up and shine at work feeling financially secure.With an unshakable belief in empowering women to achieve financial independence, Diane has dedicated her career to guiding individuals towards a secure and prosperous future and opens up to Nicola about some of the main pitfalls to look out for.Through her career, Diane has seen first hand far too many women abdicate responsibility for their finances to their partners. The realisation that many women were being severely impacted by their lack of knowledge or input into shaping their financial future was the catalyst to write her book, 'She Can Prosper' and to create a whole ecosystem of events and resources around it.This episode is packed with value and insights and if you've been sleeping on your finances, you won't want to miss it. As Diane says, 'money is a cruel mistress' who needs constant attention. Learn how to take control of your finances and your future self will be forever grateful.Follow Nicola on SocialsInstagram - nicolasands70 / appleheadmedia / successmeansbusinessLinkedIn - Nicola SandsX - nicolasands1Produced by Applehead Media Creative Studios - make your own video podcast with us:www.appleheadmedia.co.ukFollow Diane on Socialshttps://www.instagram.com/shecanprosperhttps://www.facebook.com/shecanprosper https://www.linkedin.com/company/shecanprosperhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dianewatsonsjphttps://www.shecanprosper.comhttps://www.youtube@SheCanProsperDiane's book: "She Can Prosper" available on Amazon00:00 Intro to Diane Watson01:36 Starting out in finance03:54 Career Path05:39 Starting my own company in finance09:40 Networking10:40 Work life balance13:33 Selling the business15:51 Surround yourself with the right people21:48 No longer the boss26:10 The little things that add up with finance planning30:08 Winning an award30:40 Helping women with finances38:30 Hopes for the future Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

January 27, 202540 min

Leading Innovation Expert - Gillian Kavanagh

In this episode, Nicola is joined by Innovations and Growth Specialist Gillian Kavanagh. Gillian is an experienced entrepreneur who currently works for Innovate UK to help ambitious business owners who want to innovate and grow.Gillian has a rich background when it comes to spotting talent in the business world and has helped the careers of some very well known entrepreneurs including Alexander McQueen and Jimmy Choo.She is passionate about helping founders to flourish, protect and monetise their ideas and increase their revenues. Gillian's work for Innovate UK enables her to support a wide range of businesses and entrepreneurs with access to funding, information and advice. In this interview, Gillian talks about her work helping business owners, how she believes these are THE most exciting times to be an entrepreneur and why you need to make sure you've taken some key actions to make sure you keep ownership of your ideas.Disclaimer: All support information discussed in this podcast was accurate at the time of recording.Follow Nicola on SocialsInstagram - nicolasands70 / appleheadmedia / successmeansbusinessLinkedIn - Nicola SandsX - nicolasands1Follow Gillian on SocialsLinkedIn - Gillian Kavanagh Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

December 9, 202458 min

Insurance Entrepreneur Carole Nash

In this inspiring episode of  @SuccessMeansBusiness  Sands delves into he remarkable journey of Carole Nash OBE, a trailblazer in the motorcycle insurance industry. Known for her innovative approach and commitment to customer service, Carole has transformed the way motorcycle insurance is perceived and delivered.The conversation explores Carole's early life and how it shaped her career path, the initial challenges she faced and the pivotal moments that led her to establish her own insurance company.Carole shares the story behind the founding of Carole Nash Insurance, detailing the strategies she employed to build a brand synonymous with trust and reliability in motorcycle insurance. This episode highlights Carole's innovative contributions to motorcycle insurance including unique policy offerings and customer engagement strategies that set her apart from competitors. As an OBE recipient, Carole's impact extends beyond business and she talks about her contributions to the community and the world of music and theatre. Her work as a philanthropist underlines her core belief that success is not just measured by financial success but also by having a positive influence on the world around you.This episode reflects on key takeaways from Carole's journey that aspiring entrepreneurs can apply in their own ventures. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that determination, innovation and a customer-first mindset are essential ingredients for success in an industry.Join Nicola and Carol for this engaging conversation filled with valuable insights from one of the most influential figures in motorcycle insurance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

November 17, 202438 min

LinkedIn Sensation Jessica Paul

In this episode, Nicola Sands meets Jess Paul - a dynamic professional actor and branding strategist who has taken the LinkedIn world by storm!In just a few weeks she has amassed thousands of followers and continues to captivate audiences with her unique insights and engaging content. But Jess is more than just a LinkedIn sensation, she's a marketing powerhouse. Leveraging her unique background in showbusiness and PR, Jess helps CEOs and founders to craft their own personal brands that not only resonate by also create opportunities.Her strategic approach combines the art of storytelling with cutting-edge marketing techniques making her an invaluable resource for anyone looking to elevate their brand presence.Join us as we dive into Jess's journey, uncovering the secrets behind her rapid rise on social media and how she helps leaders shine in their industry.Get ready for an inspiring conversation that will ignite your passion for personal branding! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.