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The ups and downs of a small business owner

A monthly breakdown of what life is like in a small business, the ups the downs and everything in between. We will be interviewing various business owners to try and understand their journeys.
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Crafting Success Through Curiosity: Benn Klewpatinond on Product Design and Entrepreneurship
21 April 2025
Crafting Success Through Curiosity: Benn Klewpatinond on Product Design and Entrepreneurship

Ever wondered what it's like to navigate the ups and downs of growing a business? In this episode, we dive deep into the entrepreneurial journey with Benn Klewpatinond, co-founder of FloatRower and founder of Inond.Benn's story is a testament to the power of embracing opportunities and following your passions. From his early days as a design student to becoming an award-winning inventor and mentor, Benn shares invaluable insights on product development, business growth, and the importance of continuous learning.Benn's transition from corporate design roles to entrepreneurshipThe creation and evolution of FloatRower, a revolutionary rowing machineBalancing family life with entrepreneurial pursuitsThe importance of intellectual property and product complianceLessons learned from successes and setbacks in businessBenn emphasizes the value of:Embracing opportunities and taking calculated risksContinuously educating yourself and othersBalancing passion projects with practical business decisionsAdapting to market changes and pivoting when necessaryAs Benn reflects on his journey, he shares his vision for the future, including:Continuing to mentor and educate aspiring entrepreneursDeveloping innovative products that make a differenceBuilding a lasting legacy in both business and family lifeWhether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply curious about the realities of growing a company, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of entrepreneurship with Benn Klewpatinond.Key Highlights: Entrepreneurial Wisdom :Looking Ahead:

74 min
The Phoenix Rises: From Depression and Failure to Multi-Business Success
24 March 2025
The Phoenix Rises: From Depression and Failure to Multi-Business Success

Here's a story you wouldn't expect to hear: From overcoming toxic relationships to navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, Vincent Hovorka's journey is one of resilience and growth. But there's a hidden moment in his past that few know about – a moment when the weight of teenage struggles led him to a dark place. The unexpected promise he made to his mother became the anchor that kept him afloat in the toughest of times. Curious to know how this pivotal moment shaped the successful entrepreneur he is today? Stay tuned for an eye-opening conversation that delves into the unexpected turns of Vincent's life and the unspoken battles he's fought along the way. Get ready to be inspired by the raw authenticity of his journey.In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering the art of overcoming challenges in entrepreneurship can lead to unprecedented business growth and success. Unveil the untold benefits of personal coaching for unlocking your business's full potential and achieving remarkable growth. Discover effective strategies for property investing that can significantly boost your wealth and financial stability. Unleash the secrets to hosting successful business events that leave a lasting impact and create valuable opportunities for growth. Adapt your business strategies to legislation changes to stay ahead of the curve and ensure sustained growth and profitability.My special guest is Vincent HovorkaVincent Hovorka is an experienced entrepreneur with a diverse background in the business world, spanning over a decade. His professional journey includes a transition from a chef to a successful small business owner and property investor. With a strong emphasis on personal development and a keen understanding of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, Vincent has established himself as a valuable resource for those seeking effective strategies for business growth. Through his coaching and mentorship, he aims to provide practical insights and guidance for navigating the intricacies of entrepreneurship, offering a wealth of knowledge to aspiring business owners.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introducing Vincent Hovorka 00:01:31 - The Action Taker Summit 00:02:29 - Pre-Action Taker Ventures 00:05:29 - Discovering Property Business 00:08:33 - Overcoming Challenges 00:12:18 - Finding Motivation in Family and Helping Others 00:13:53 - Importance of Networking and Support 00:14:37 - Dealing with Loneliness and Seeking Support 00:16:00 - Balancing Action with Preparation 00:20:08 - Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking 00:24:41 - Overcoming Challenges and Beliefs 00:25:34 - Financial Priorities and Business Goals 00:29:36 - Adapting to Change in Business 00:31:39 - Embracing Technology and Adaptation 00:36:24 - Authenticity and Communication Style 00:37:30 - The Greatest Wealth 00:38:33 - A Secret Revealed 00:40:15 - Teenage Struggles 00:40:56 - Importance of Sharing 00:41:41 - Concluding Thoughts

41 min
Lessons Learned on the Lonely Road of Entrepreneurship
24 February 2025
Lessons Learned on the Lonely Road of Entrepreneurship

Does this sound familiar? Have you ever been told to just "ignore it" when facing a challenge or frustration in your business? The pain of feeling unheard and unseen while the problem persists can be overwhelming. It's time to address the issue and make a change that truly matters. In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering the Art of Starting a Digital Marketing Agency: Learn the proven strategies for launching a successful digital marketing agency and standing out in the competitive landscape. Overcoming Challenges for Marketing Managers in SMEs: Uncover the tactics to navigate common hurdles and optimize marketing efforts within small and medium-sized enterprises. Navigating the Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship: Discover the essential steps to smoothly transition from a corporate career to thriving as an entrepreneur in the digital marketing realm. Building Stronger Teams for Small Business Success: Explore the powerful impact of team building on driving growth and fostering a positive work culture within small businesses. Embracing AI to Elevate Digital Marketing Strategies: Unveil the potential of integrating AI technologies to revolutionize digital marketing approaches and achieve remarkable results. My special guest is Kevin Sparks Kevin Sparks, the founder of BigVoice, brings a wealth of experience in the digital marketing landscape. With a background in corporate sales and marketing for major companies like Minolta and Talk Talk, Kevin transitioned into entrepreneurship, leveraging his expertise to establish BigVoice, a digital marketing agency catering to overworked marketing managers in SMEs. His journey from the corporate world to successfully founding and growing his own business offers valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of small business ownership. Through his own experiences, Kevin understands the importance of team building and adaptability, making him an invaluable resource for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to navigate the digital marketing arena. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - Introducing BigVoice and its Services 00:01:46 - Kevin's Background and Journey to BigVoice 00:03:37 - The Birth of BigVoice 00:06:36 - Importance of Team and Specialization 00:09:51 - Leveraging Social Media Platforms 00:13:38 - Striving for Success 00:14:32 - Toughest Moment 00:17:30 - Overcoming Challenges 00:20:12 - Biggest Success 00:24:40 - Importance of Knowing the Numbers 00:28:23 - Dealing with imposter syndrome 00:29:22 - The importance of having a mentor 00:30:52 - Balancing business and family 00:34:24 - Advice for starting a business 00:37:36 - Future Aspirations for Big Voice 00:41:48 - The Role of Automation and AI in Business 00:43:06 - Impact of AI on Marketing and SEO 00:44:23 - The Future of Graphic Design and Creativity 00:46:43 - Personal Reflection and Regrets 00:51:13 - Embracing Intolerance as a Driving Force 00:54:54 - Addressing Upset Feelings 00:55:18 - Road Rage vs. Confrontation 00:55:56 - Confrontation and Apologies 00:56:28 - Teaching Kids About Confrontation 00:56:52 - Conclusion and Thanks

56 min
Pivoting a Business During a Pandemic: An Event Company's Journey
26 January 2025
Pivoting a Business During a Pandemic: An Event Company's Journey

Unexpectedly, Heather Hannaby shares the emotional journey of building her business around her daughter's needs. From struggling with her daughter's health to pivoting her business during the pandemic, Heather's story is a testament to resilience and prioritizing what truly matters. But what's the surprising twist that has defined her definition of success and happiness? Stay tuned to find out. In this episode, you will be able to: Strengthening Family Bonds: Discover how to navigate the dynamics of starting a small business with family members and build a stronger connection through entrepreneurship. Embracing Entrepreneurial Freedom: Explore the journey of transitioning from the corporate world to entrepreneurship and unleash the potential for personal and professional growth. Balancing Act: Learn effective strategies for managing the demands of family life while thriving in your small business, achieving a harmonious work-life balance. Adapting and Thriving: Uncover innovative ways to navigate and innovate your small business during the pandemic, ensuring resilience and continued growth. Mastering Business Insight: Realize the importance of understanding your business numbers and how it can drive informed decisions, leading to enhanced business resilience and balanced personal fulfillment. My special guest is Heather Hannaby Heather Hannaby, the Director of Ellie Vision av, brings extensive experience in small business management to the podcast. With a career background in trade show and event management, Heather's transition to entrepreneurship in 2018 marked a significant shift in her professional journey. Her proactive response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, exemplified by the strategic pivot towards outdoor cinemas, underscores her adaptability and innovative business approach. Heather's insights on the significance of understanding business numbers, alongside her firsthand experience of integrating family responsibilities with entrepreneurial endeavors, offer practical wisdom for small business owners navigating similar paths. Her expertise and resilience in the face of adversity make her a valuable resource for those seeking to enhance business resilience while maintaining personal fulfillment in the dynamic landscape of small business ownership. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Meet Heather Hannaby 00:05:24 - Starting a Business 00:10:23 - Navigating Through Covid 00:13:28 - Adapting the Business Model 00:15:21 - Leveraging Existing Capabilities 00:16:08 - Adversity leading to growth 00:17:51 - Utilizing outdoor cinema for fundraising 00:18:31 - Navigating through tough times 00:21:37 - Building trust and success in business 00:27:08 - Redefining success and work-life balance 00:32:41 - Business Expansion 00:34:06 - Separate Business Roles 00:37:35 - Trusting Judgment 00:39:06 - Future Business Plans 00:40:43 - Personal Reflections

43 min
Democratising Social Media: How This Founder Plans to Take on Big Tech
16 December 2024
Democratising Social Media: How This Founder Plans to Take on Big Tech

Hey there! Tired of feeling like the odd one out in tech and AI spaces? You know, the only woman in the room? You've probably been told that it's just a closed-off boys' club, right? But let's get real — that's not the whole story. I used to think the same, but over the past year, I've had a major eye-opener. Now, I've got a clearer understanding of why that gender gap exists, and it's not what you might think. Stay tuned as I reveal the surprising truth behind this tech gender divide that nobody talks about! In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering Business Growth as a Young Entrepreneur: Uncover the secrets to thriving as a young entrepreneur in a competitive market. Empowering Entrepreneurship to Overcome Homelessness: Discover how entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for overcoming adversity and building a successful future. Breaking Gender Barriers in Tech Entrepreneurship: Learn how to navigate and succeed in the tech industry as a female entrepreneur, despite the challenges. Harnessing the Power of AI for Business Growth: Explore the potential of AI in revolutionizing and accelerating business growth strategies. Unveiling Winning Strategies for Scaling Your Small Business: Unlock the key strategies for taking your small business to new heights of success through effective scaling. My special guest is Inge Hunter Inge Hunter, the founder and CEO of Clue Content, has a remarkable entrepreneurial journey that began with selling cocktails on the streets of Cambridge after overcoming homelessness at a young age. Despite facing adversities, she pursued her academic goals and achieved a first-class university degree while concurrently growing her business and raising a child. Inge's resilient spirit and innovative approach have contributed to her success, positioning her as a notable figure in the arena of small business growth and strategic application. Her unique experiences and unwavering determination make her a compelling voice for young entrepreneurs navigating challenges and seeking effective business growth strategies. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction to Inge Hunter 00:02:29 - Homelessness and Entrepreneurship 00:06:00 - Transition to Business Management 00:09:55 - Family Expectations and Career Path 00:12:23 - Evolution into Event Planning and Consulting 00:15:20 - The Rise of Social Media Marketing 00:16:38 - The Complexity of Social Media Management 00:19:10 - The Importance of Organic Social Growth 00:25:03 - Building a Team and Overcoming Doubt 00:30:41 - Moments of Doubt and Perseverance 00:31:26 - Overcoming Challenges and Making Tough Decisions 00:33:05 - Perceptions and Self-Worth 00:35:17 - Biggest Success and Team Empowerment 00:39:03 - Importance of Understanding Finance 00:43:29 - The Value of Advisory Support 00:46:51 - Navigating Contradicting Views and Unsolicited Opinions 00:48:00 - The Evolution of Business Mindset 00:50:02 - Corporate Skillset in Small Business 00:54:46 - Future Plans and Social Impact 01:00:31 - Impact of AI on Business 01:02:08 - The Value of AI in Understanding Human Behavior 01:03:01 - AI's Influence on Social Media 01:04:33 - AI's Potential Impact on Industries 01:05:37 - Continuous Learning and Gender Equality 01:07:33 - Gender Equality Challenges and Societal Impact

76 min
From Stag Dos to Surviving a Pandemic: The Resilient Journey of an Events Company CEO
24 November 2024
From Stag Dos to Surviving a Pandemic: The Resilient Journey of an Events Company CEO

Hey there, small business owners! Have you heard these myths about surviving a pandemic and thriving in the AI era? Let's debunk them together. Myth 1: AI will only impact big businesses. Myth 2: Diversifying revenue streams is too complex. Myth 3: Pandemic survival strategies are one-size-fits-all. Ready to uncover the truth? Stay tuned for game-changing insights! In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how to turn redundancy into a springboard for entrepreneurial success. Uncover the potential of AI in revolutionizing small business operations. Learn essential strategies for navigating and thriving through a pandemic as a business owner. Unlock the power of diversifying revenue streams for long-term business resilience. Explore the art of building a strong brand through targeting niche markets. My special guest is Daniel Osullivan Daniel Osullivan, the founder and CEO of the Experience Specialist Group, possesses extensive entrepreneurial experience, notably in managing Red Cactus Events Ltd and spearheading the launch of Shizu Media. His adeptness at navigating the impact of AI on small businesses and implementing growth strategies during challenging times underscores his practical expertise. With a focus on diversifying business revenue streams and cultivating a brand through niche markets, Daniel offers valuable insights for small business owners seeking resilience and strategic adaptability. His robust track record in the corporate events and entertainment business positions him as a credible source for strategic business growth and adaptability in today's competitive landscape. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction to the Experience Specialist Group 00:02:02 - Early Entrepreneurial Aspirations 00:06:01 - Cultural Shift in the Corporate World 00:11:52 - Launching the Stag Do Booking Agency 00:13:43 - Evolution of Service Lines 00:14:49 - Starting a Business and Taking Redundancy 00:16:31 - Finding Success with a New Business Model 00:17:50 - Importance of Having a Business Partner 00:20:36 - Stepping Back from the Business 00:24:18 - Learning from Failure 00:28:58 - Facing Challenges with Business Ventures 00:29:58 - Surviving the Pandemic 00:33:30 - Adapting to Change 00:36:47 - Pivoting to Virtual Entertainment 00:42:33 - Importance of Mentorship 00:44:49 - Importance of Mentorship and Business Coaching 00:45:31 - Lessons Learned and Reflections 00:46:41 - Importance of Hiring 00:49:08 - Recruitment Process and Attitude 00:53:21 - Utilization of AI in Business 00:59:45 - Lessons Learned from Building Multiple Companies 01:00:06 - Conclusion and Gratitude

60 min
When the Drill Goes Silent: Transitioning from Dentistry to Full-Time Business Leadership
28 October 2024
When the Drill Goes Silent: Transitioning from Dentistry to Full-Time Business Leadership

In this episode, you will be able to: Mastering the Journey of Starting a Dental Practice: Unlock the secrets to a successful launch and growth of your dental practice. Unravelling the Impact of Family Background on Career Choice: Explore the surprising influence of family history on your dental career path. Navigating the Expansion of Your Dental Practice Business: Discover the strategies to scale and grow your dental practice effectively. Elevating the Importance of Patient Experience in Dentistry: Transform your practice by creating exceptional patient experiences that keep them coming back. Transitioning from Clinical Dentistry to Business Management: Uncover the keys to smoothly shift from focusing on patients to managing the business side of your dental practice. My special guest is Kaival Patel Kaival Patel, the visionary owner and director of Kana Health Group, brings a fresh and innovative approach to dentistry and business management. With a strong emphasis on patient experience and empowerment, Kaival's journey from childhood fascination with teeth to co-founding the group alongside his wife, Shreena, showcases his unwavering commitment to excellence. Shaped by his family's immigrant background and strong work ethic, Kaival's unique insights into the dental industry and business ownership offer a wealth of knowledge for fellow entrepreneurs and small business owners in the dental field. His expertise and experiences provide a compelling narrative, shedding light on the importance of balancing clinical expertise with strategic business management for a successful dental practice. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:10 - Introduction and Business Overview 00:01:22 - Journey to Dentistry 00:04:46 - Buying the First Dental Practice 00:08:39 - Managing Disagreements and Business Coaching 00:11:26 - Staff Management and Business Growth 00:13:54 - Establishing the Brand Identity 00:15:12 - Importance of Mentorship 00:18:25 - Transition from Dentist to Business Owner 00:21:25 - Expanding Dental Practices 00:25:43 - Enhancing Patient Experience 00:26:44 - Importance of Positive Experiences in Dentistry 00:27:56 - Creating a Multi-Sensory Experience 00:30:47 - Building a Positive Team Culture 00:35:37 - Learning from Mistakes 00:36:32 - The Impact of Existing Owners 00:39:14 - Building a Health Group Practice 00:42:04 - Importance of Knowing the Numbers 00:45:01 - Leaving a Legacy 00:49:42 - Considerations for Selling the Business 00:51:33 - Embracing AI in Dentistry 00:52:23 - Embracing AI in Dentistry 00:53:33 - Impact of AI on Future Dentists 00:55:07 - Reflecting on Missed Opportunities 00:57:13 - Overcoming Dark Moments 01:03:28 - Closing Remarks and Contact Information https://www.youtopia.co.uk/dentist

64 min
Learning Through Failure: An Insolvency Expert Gets Candid
19 July 2024
Learning Through Failure: An Insolvency Expert Gets Candid

Hey there, small business owners! Do you ever feel like you're struggling to navigate financial challenges and desperate for a solution? Maybe you've been told to follow a certain approach to overcome business insolvency, but it's left you feeling even more overwhelmed and stuck. If you're feeling the pressure of creditors knocking on your door and the distress of financial difficulty, it's time to find a new strategy that actually works. Let's explore effective ways to overcome business insolvency and get your business back on track together! In this episode, you will be able to: Learn effective strategies for overcoming business insolvency and turning challenges into opportunities. Discover how insolvency and restructuring can lead to career progression and professional growth. Uncover the importance of mentorship in achieving success and navigating the complexities of insolvency practice. Explore ways to balance family life while driving business growth and managing insolvency challenges. Understand the role of AI in enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in insolvency practice. My special guest is Marco Piacquadio Marco Piacquadio is the owner, director, and head of recovery at FTS. With a career in insolvency, he brings a wealth of experience and knowledge in navigating financial challenges faced by small businesses. Starting his journey at a top ten firm of accountants, Marco's career progression and dedication to the field have led to his role as a licensed insolvency practitioner. His unique blend of practical skills and personal insights make him a valuable resource for small business owners seeking strategies to overcome business insolvency. Marco's relatable journey and professional expertise provide a rich perspective on the complexities and solutions in the world of corporate restructuring and insolvency. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction to FTS Recovery 00:01:24 - Marco's Career Journey 00:06:13 - Balancing Career and Parenthood 00:09:35 - Pursuing Professional Services 00:12:32 - Building and Exiting a Business 00:14:14 - Changing Goals and Personal Impact 00:15:52 - Failure and Personal Reflection 00:17:23 - The Challenge of Celebrating Success 00:23:43 - Entrepreneurial Risk and Support 00:29:00 - Business Growth Strategies 00:30:39 - Accountability and Collaboration 00:35:59 - Finding Support and Mentorship 00:39:13 - Working from Home and Office Culture 00:42:08 - Balancing Work and Family 00:42:33 - Balancing Work and Personal Life 00:43:19 - Reflection on Life Choices 00:45:04 - Future Business Plans 00:47:12 - Impact of AI on Business 00:52:23 - Business Mistakes and Lessons

53 min
From Working Class to Business Success: My Journey from Italia Conti to Building a Business Legacy – grit, growth & grace.
17 June 2024
From Working Class to Business Success: My Journey from Italia Conti to Building a Business Legacy – grit, growth & grace.

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to just "push through" and "tough it out" to achieve your goals, but you still feel stuck and overwhelmed. The constant pressure and lack of progress can leave you feeling drained and demotivated. Let's uncover a better way to power through and achieve success without the burnout. In this episode, you will be able to: Master the art of successful business rebranding and propel your company to new heights. Uncover the crucial role of company culture in attracting top talent and building a winning team. Achieve a harmonious balance between personal and professional life for enhanced well-being and productivity. Cultivate a resilient entrepreneurship mindset to navigate challenges and thrive in the business world. Harness the transformative impact of diversity and inclusion in revolutionizing your hiring practices. My special guest is Gemma Gemma Downing, the co-founder and director of Mixxos, is a seasoned expert in business rebranding and fostering a resilient entrepreneurship mindset. Her extensive experience in recruitment and her dedication to championing diversity and inclusion in the workplace make her an invaluable source of insights. Gemma's personal journey of overcoming challenges and carving out a successful career from a non-privileged background epitomizes her determination and tenacity. Her down-to-earth approach and relatable experiences make her a compelling voice for small business owners looking to elevate their company culture and bolster team morale. Gemma's expertise and genuine passion for creating a supportive work environment shine through, offering practical advice on the importance of company culture in recruitment and strategies for successful business rebranding. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction to Mixxos 00:01:00 - Purpose of the Rebrand 00:02:31 - Involvement in Rebranding 00:04:12 - Gemma's Resilience and Determination 00:07:00 - School and Career Transition 00:13:46 - Transitioning back to work and starting a new business 00:14:57 - Making a risky career move and partnership with Bianca 00:17:28 - Partnership with Chris and balancing work and personal life 00:21:15 - Creating a separation between work and personal life 00:25:36 - The influence of personal relationships on success 00:27:00 - Raising Industry Standards 00:28:23 - Overcoming Adversity 00:32:35 - Importance of People Support 00:34:14 - Lessons Learned in Business 00:37:17 - Embracing Failure 00:40:52 - Teaching Teddy about Love 00:41:49 - Lessons from Business Failures 00:45:01 - Business Success and Growth 00:47:35 - Personal Success - Teddy 00:53:36 - Future Goals 00:55:06 - Building a Supportive Work Environment 00:55:48 - Legacy of Empowerment 00:56:29 - Embracing Adversity and Mental Health 00:57:21 - Celebrating Success and Team Culture 01:00:45 - Effective Leadership and Training

63 min
From Insomnia to Finding Her Tribe: Gill's Journey to Business Success
6 February 2024
From Insomnia to Finding Her Tribe: Gill's Journey to Business Success

Join eco-influencer and holistic health advocate Gill Perkins as she defies societal norms, embraces individuality, and leads her own narrative to inspire small business owners on their journey to success. In this episode, you will be able to: My special guest is Gill Perkins, a multi-talented content and communication specialist, eco influencer, and holistic health podcaster, who joins me today. With her extensive experience in content creation, product testing, and aiding small businesses with their creative content, she brings a unique perspective to our discussion. Gill is also a dedicated yogi, twin mom, and passionate cook, embodying the essence of conscious consumerism and sustainability in her everyday life. Her grassroots eco approach, influenced by her upbringing, offers an authentic and relatable insight into making tangible, impactful changes towards a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Gill's journey and expertise are sure to inspire and guide fellow small business owners looking to embrace their individuality and lead their own narrative. Here is a link to the JamJarGill podcast You can also contact her on Linktree

69 min
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