Flying Solo

[Trigger warning] This episode of Flying Solo discusses depression and suicidal ideation. Listener discretion is advised. On this episode of Flying Solo, host Cec Busby dives deep into a topic that too often remains in the shadows: men’s mental health. With Are You OK? Day around the corner and financial, emotional, and social pressures weighing heavily on solo business owners, now is the time for an honest conversation. Cec is joined by John Broadbent—men's mental health advocate, business owner, coach, and author of Man Unplugged—to share his personal journey from emotional shutdown and loss to self-discovery and healing. Together, they explore why men remain overrepresented in suicide statistics, the shifting cultural expectations around masculinity, and why sharing our stories and showing vulnerability is so critical. Whether you're running your own business or simply looking to better understand the men in your life, this episode is packed with heartfelt insights and hope for change. Key topics 1. Men’s Mental Health: The Crisis, Causes, and Stigma High rates of suicide among Australian men; ongoing stigma around seeking help Traditional expectations of masculinity (provider, protector, stoic) vs. shifting cultural norms The impact of isolation, low self-worth, and reluctance to discuss feelings 2. John Broadbent’s Personal and Professional Journey Experiencing emotional awakening, loss, and rebuilding after personal and business setbacks Finding healing through workshops, mentorship, and self-exploration Writing "Man Unplugged" and evolving as a leader and advocate in men’s personal development 3. Breaking Through: Emotional Literacy and Honest Conversation The importance of vulnerability, open communication, and emotional skills for men Practical steps: Level 1-3 conversations for deepening relationships Teaching emotional literacy to boys and supporting men in expressing emotions beyond anger 4. Solutions, Support, and Hope for the Future The value of safe spaces, group work, and community support for men Shifting the narrative: inclusive dialogue for lasting cultural change Hope found in younger generations and in men opening up when given the opportunity Timestamped overview 00:00 Rethinking Men's Mental Health 05:16 Epiphany Through Reading Journey 09:17 "Reflecting on My Ancestral Timeline" 11:21 Embracing Change and Growth 13:09 "Man Unplugged: Understanding Midlife Transitions" 19:13 Deepening Conversations for Genuine Connection 20:04 "Importance of Deep Conversations" 23:20 Encouraging Emotional Awareness in Men 28:38 "Emotional Availability in Relationships" 32:03 Shame, Violence, and Domestic Abuse 36:11 Men's Retreats Foster Emotional Growth 37:56 Support Resources and John’s Story Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Flying Solo, Cec Busby sits down with Chris Green. Chris has over two decades of experience helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses to success. So if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos of running your own business, Chris brings practical advice and tried-and-true strategies to help you shift from a stressed-out, overloaded operator to an effective leader with a scalable, rewarding business. Cec and Chris unpack the common pitfalls that hold small business owners back, the crucial mindset shift needed to break through the “entrepreneurial ceiling,” and the modern, actionable ways to document processes and empower your team. Whether you’re a solo act or leading a growing crew, this episode is packed with insights to help you work smarter, build capacity, and future-proof your business. Tune in for a conversation that’s both inspiring and immediately actionable for anyone striving to run a business by design—not by default. Key topics 1. Transitioning from Technician to Leader Business owners often default to operational, hands-on roles that limit growth. Key step: Shift your mindset, redefine your role, and focus on building systems and empowering your team. Getting support from mentors or coaches and embracing discomfort is crucial for real change. 2. Systematising and Scaling Your Business Document processes using modern tools (video, screen capture) to make knowledge accessible. Capturing systems reduces key-person risk, enables smooth team onboarding, and supports business continuity. Regularly update operational practices to keep pace with business growth and staffing changes. 3. Building the Right Team and Culture Move beyond technical hiring; prioritise curiosity, appetite for learning, and cultural alignment. Invest in developing your team’s capacity, structuring performance reviews, and fostering a supportive, “safe to fail” environment. Clear vision and values help attract, retain, and motivate the right people. 4. Practical Strategy & Managing Economic Challenges Blend inspirational long-term vision with practical, actionable steps (like 90-day and annual plans). Don’t be distracted by negative business failure statistics—focus on controllable factors like customer fit and process improvement. Soloists and small business owners should carve out time for business development, innovation, and continual learning. Timestamped overview 00:00 Turning Consulting Insights into Books 05:00 Breaking Through the Entrepreneurial Ceiling 08:38 Leadership Accountability: Focus On Yourself 10:25 "Modernizing Operation Manuals" 16:15 "Aligning Culture with Strategy" 20:00 "Strategic Hiring and Retention Shift" 22:59 Balancing Inspiration and Strategy 27:19 Business Success Odds vs. Media Narrative 28:28 Building Confidence in Business Growth 32:06 Chris Green AU: Book & Resources Online Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Melissa Laurie is the founder of Oysterly Media—a fast-growing social video agency that’s making big waves across Australia, Asia, and beyond. With over 1000s of followers on TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn, plus brand collaborations with giants like Hilton and Microsoft, Melissa is redefining how brands use short form video to connect with their audiences. Together, Cec and Melissa dive deep into the power of short form video, the rising impact of employee-generated content, and what it takes for small businesses to really stand out on social media. Melissa shares actionable tips, insights on emerging trends like social search and YouTube Shorts, and busts common myths about building an authentic brand presence online. If you’re a small business owner, marketer, or entrepreneur ready to take your social media game to the next level, this episode is packed with real-world advice you can start using today. Key topics 1. The Power of Short Form Video Rapid growth across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts Effective way for brands to build trust and capture attention Short, engaging content requires both creativity and strategy 2. Employee Generated Content (EGC) Empowers staff to create authentic, engaging videos for company profiles Helps activate employee engagement, attract talent, and advertise naturally Training and confidence-building are essential for effective EGC 3. Making Content Stand Out The first few seconds (“first frame”) are crucial to stop the scroll Research trending searches and questions to create relevant videos Use pattern interruptions and creativity to maintain viewer interest 4. Evolving Social Search and Discovery Social platforms are overtaking traditional SEO for product/service discovery Incorporate keywords and answer search-driven questions in videos YouTube Shorts presents an untapped marketing opportunity, especially in Australia 5. Building Your Personal and Business Brand Founder-led content humanises brands and builds recognition Regular, value-driven posting helps refine skills and grow audience Experimenting with styles and staying authentic are key to success Timestamped overview 00:00 "Trailblazing in Social Media" 05:05 Employee-Generated Content Benefits 07:44 Boosting Camera Confidence for Cafes 10:20 Captivate with Cafe Art Magic 14:00 Search Strategy: Engaging Your Audience 18:43 Boost Business with Strategic Video Scripts 22:42 Cross-Platform Short Video Strategy 26:36 Thought Leadership in Video Marketing 27:52 "Engaging Video Content Tips" 33:08 Social Media Video Mastery Tips 34:40 "Follow Melissa Laurie Online" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leanne Shelton is an AI coach, keynote speaker, and founder of Human Edge AI Training. Leanne’s journey from content marketer and copywriter to AI advocate proves that you don’t need a tech background to harness the power of AI in your business. If the thought of AI makes you feel overwhelmed or worried about losing your “human touch,” this episode is your perfect antidote. Leanne shares her mission to demystify AI for busy, non-techie leaders and introduces insights from her new book, AI Human Fusion. Together, Cec and Leanne explore how small business owners can adopt AI tools in a way that’s strategic, ethical, and—most importantly—aligned with their own values. Tune in for practical advice, mindset shifts to conquer AI-induced overwhelm, and Leanne’s unique “HABITS” framework for building healthy AI habits. Key topics 1. Adopting a Human-First Approach to AI Advocates for placing humans—not technology—at the centre of AI adoption and business processes. Stresses the importance of retaining critical thinking, creativity, and personal connection. Encourages conscious decisions about when and how to use AI, ensuring it complements rather than replaces human input. 2. Navigating Fear and Overwhelm Acknowledges widespread anxiety and panic around AI, fueled by media and uncertainty. Offers mindset shifts to help business owners feel more confident and empowered using AI. Advises against using AI simply for the sake of it, and instead to solve genuine pain points. 3. Practical Guidance for Non-Techies and Teams Designed support tools, like her book and the HABITS framework, for non-technical leaders and small business owners. Emphasises onboarding AI like a junior team member: providing clear context, instructions, and feedback. Recommends fostering a team culture of openness, curiosity, and structured learning around AI use. 4. Responsible and Ethical AI Integration Highlights the need for clear internal and external AI policies to guide ethical and secure usage. Stresses the importance of transparency with clients and stakeholders about how AI is used. Warns against “productivity traps” and encourages balancing efficiency with quality and trust. 5. Getting Started and Building Healthy Habits Suggests starting small: experimenting with basic tasks and training AI on your unique business context. Advocates developing healthy AI habits now to prevent poor practices later. Recommends maintaining control by treating AI as a collaborative assistant to support—not replace—your expertise. Timestamped overview 00:00 "Humanising AI Content Creation" 06:03 "Understanding AI Beyond Tools" 09:35 "AI: Enhance Efficiency, Retain Humanity" 12:49 Effective Content Creation Process 16:14 "Integrating AI: Strategy and Ethics" 17:40 "AI Policy: A Dual Purpose" 20:31 "AI Efficiency vs. Communication Clarity" 24:09 Polite Habits with AI Assistants 28:31 Building Trust Through Employee Surveys 29:59 Team Alignment on AI Usage 33:36 "AI Human Fusion Insights" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jenny Stillwell is a renowned business strategist, former CEO, and author of "The 7% Club." Jenny brings decades of experience guiding businesses through the ups and downs of growth. In this epsidoe of Flying Solo she dives deep into why the $2 million mark is such a crucial tipping point for scaling up. Cec and Jenny explore everything from mindset shifts and delegation challenges to the power of intentional leadership and building your “A team.” Whether you’re itching to take your business to the next level or just want to run things smarter, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to help you think like a true CEO—even if you’re still wearing all the hats. Get ready to discover what it takes to break into that elusive 7% of businesses that crack the $2 million ceiling and scale with confidence. Key topics 1. Jenny Stillwell’s Background and the 7% Club Concept Experience as a CEO, adviser, and author focused on business growth The formation and reasoning behind “The 7% Club”: only 7% of Australian businesses exceed $2 million revenue The $2 million mark as a turning point requiring new strategies and structure 2. Mindset and Role Shift for Scaling Businesses Importance of moving from “doing it all” to a CEO mindset The major mindset shift and the “dance of trust” needed for delegation Need to build processes and empower the team, not just hand off tasks Recognising when founders are bottlenecks to growth 3. Building a Foundation to Scale Intentionally putting the right people in the right roles (“A team”) Documenting and sharing core processes and knowledge Gaining a strong grip on business financials and key metrics Adapting structure to support future–focused growth 4. Challenges, Motivation, and Leadership Insights Avoiding chasing revenue at the cost of profit, margin, or wellbeing Staying motivated during plateaus and being honest about personal goals Navigating difficult leadership moments: tough conversations and confident decision–making The value and impact of mentorship and having visible role models 5. Myths and Realities of Scaling and Growth Distinction between growth (steady increase) and scaling (leveraging systems/tech for rapid expansion) Hiring shifts: from generalists to specialists as the business matures Common misconceptions—reaching revenue targets doesn’t solve all challenges Creative exercises (like envisioning 10x growth) for long–term planning Time-stamped overview 00:00 "From Corporate to Serial Entrepreneur" 05:46 Growth Challenges in Business Transition 07:33 Intentional Growth and Strategic Shifts 12:43 Strategic Leadership and Team Building 14:08 "Essential Keys for Business Success" 19:30 Strategic Growth and Happiness Alignment 23:27 Navigating Difficult Conversations 26:58 "Scaling vs. Growth Explained" 30:18 Specialized Hiring for Business Growth 32:25 "Jenny's Insights & 7th Cent Club" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Daniel Murray is a leadership expert, speaker, and author of the game-changing new book, The Empathy Gap. Daniel shares his personal journey from a highly analytical thinker who struggled with empathy, to an advocate who believes that empathy isn’t just a “soft skill”, it’s a strategic superpower every business leader can learn and harness. Daniel breaks down why empathy is so crucial in today’s complex, fast-paced world, how it goes beyond just being nice, and why it’s essential for building trust, navigating conflict, and driving real results in business. Whether you’re working solo, managing a team, or just looking to connect on a deeper level with those around you, this episode is packed with research-backed insights and practical tools to help you bridge the empathy gap. Key topics 1. The Strategic Power and Learnability of Empathy Empathy is not an innate trait but a learnable, research-backed leadership skill. It’s often mislabeled as a “soft skill” despite requiring conscious, ongoing effort. Empathy can be a leader’s strategic superpower, influencing outcomes beyond technical decisions. 2. Empathy in Action: Leadership, Conflict, and Accountability Leaders must understand underlying motivations and emotions, not just tasks or data. Empathy helps resolve conflicts and fosters more meaningful, constructive conversations. There's a clear distinction between coddling (sympathy) and holding people accountable while being empathetic. 3. Developing Empathy: Practical Steps and Personal Growth Daniel outlines a four-step process focusing on curiosity and overcoming unconscious bias. Building empathy requires humility and a willingness to move beyond assumptions. Self-empathy and reflection are essential, especially for soloists and entrepreneurs navigating challenges. 4. The Value of Empathy in Business and Team Culture Signs of an empathy deficit include suspicion, defensiveness, and poor communication. Healthy cultures are rooted in trust, curiosity, and openness to understanding others’ perspectives. Empathy allows small businesses and soloists to adapt more quickly and connect deeply with clients. 5. Embracing Change: Emotional Intelligence and the Future As technology and AI reshape work, emotional intelligence is increasingly vital. The future of effective leadership will centre on trust, human connection, and empathy-driven practices. Daniel emphasises the need for empathy to bridge complexity and create genuinely supportive environments. Time-stamped overview 00:00 Unspoken Issues Impact Performance 05:34 "Balancing Data and Human Connection" 08:34 "Build Skills Through Conscious Curiosity" 12:42 Transforming Conflict Perspective 15:38 Empathy's Role in Performance Evaluation 20:02 Prioritize Curiosity to Prevent Unraveling 22:53 AI's Impact: Rapid Decisions, Human Connection 26:00 Understanding Local Needs in Charity Work 29:12 Embracing Humility for Growth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, host Cec Busby sits down with Vinisha Rathod—Sydney-based branding specialist, keynote speaker, and founder of P3 Studio. Vinisha isn’t just flipping the script on personal branding; she’s rewriting the whole playbook. Drawing on her 15 years of experience helping leaders and businesses make a real impact, Vinisha shares her unique approach to building a personal brand that goes well beyond shiny surface appearances. Instead, it’s about deep alignment with your values, your purpose, and your true self. Key topics 1. The Importance of Personal Branding Your personal brand is your reputation and what you’re known for, especially in a world of changing careers. A strong personal brand opens up opportunities, both locally and globally, via your online presence. It allows you to express your true values and attract aligned opportunities, not just business but in life. 2. Authenticity and Consistency Authenticity isn’t a static trait; it’s a practice and skill to develop. Being the same person online as you are in-person builds trust and credibility. Consistency in what you stand for is essential—people learn to know you for certain values and causes. 3. Practical Tips for Building an Online Presence Be clear about what you do and why you do it; don’t underestimate silent observers on platforms like LinkedIn. Thoughtful, value-driven sharing trumps frequent, superficial, or generic posting. Use storytelling and genuine insights to set yourself apart from AI-generated or “humblebrag” content. 4. Vulnerability and Networking Showing vulnerability—once you’ve processed your experiences—creates deeper connections. Authentic networking focuses on meaningful conversations over quantity or wide reach. Knowing your personal networking style helps you build relationships in a way that suits you. 5. The Briefcase Effect & Its Impact The “Briefcase Effect” is about carrying your true essence—your best self—into every environment. It’s about attracting the right people and opportunities while filtering out what doesn’t serve you. The overall aim is to transition from mere survival to thriving and creating a positive impact for others. Timestamped overview 00:00 Building Your Brand Beats Networking 04:22 "Mastery Over Passion Framework" 09:07 Navigating Career and Life Choices 10:26 "Reputation and Personal Branding" 15:46 Consistency Builds Trust 17:48 "Briefcase Effect: Showcasing Personal Branding" 21:14 "Balancing Life: Contentment and Growth" 27:24 Building Connections Beyond Work 31:05 "Embrace Your Comfort Zone Identity" 33:22 Thriving for a Better World 35:12 "Embrace Authentic Success" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode of Flying Solo Cec is joined by Mark Chapman, Director of Tax Communication at H&R Block, to break down everything you need to know about end-of-financial-year preparation. Find out everything from how to get your paperwork in order, to avoiding common mistakes. Make sure you’re not leaving any money on the table when it comes to deductions. Mark offers practical advice on essential record keeping, explains which documents are a must-have, and even spots some tax traps and scams to watch for. So grab your receipts (and maybe a coffee), and let’s get ready to tackle tax season together! Key topics 1. Essential tax prep and record keeping ·      Importance of keeping all income and expense records (receipts, invoices, etc.) ·      Advice to update records regularly, ideally year-round, or as soon as possible before June 30 ·      Consequences of poor record keeping: missed deductions, higher accountant fees, and complex returns 2. Common deductions and maximising claims ·      Home office: Options to claim using the fixed-rate method (70c/hour) or proportion of actual home expenses ·      Additional deductions for items like business equipment, software, and subscriptions (e.g., Canva, Blinkist) ·      Avoid double-dipping by not claiming the same expenses under multiple methods 3. Changes and updates for this Financial Year ·      Instant Asset Write-Off available for eligible assets up to $20,000 ·      No other major changes to small business deduction rules this year ·      Importance of following current rules and consulting with a tax professional 4. Business vs. personal expenses ·      Need to apportion shared expenses between business and personal use, and substantiate claims ·      Risks for company owners who mix personal withdrawals with business funds (Division 7A implications) ·      Recommendation to seek professional advice to properly separate and track finances 5. Avoiding ATO pitfalls and audit risks ·      Substantiation is key: receipts typically required (not just credit card statements) for most claims ·      ATO is vigilant about double claims and personal/business expense separation ·      Proper documentation reduces audit risk and ensures legitimate deductions are not missed  Timestamped overview  00:00 Start tax prep early 03:17 Complicated tax return challenges 06:46 Home business tax deduction tips 10:17 Home office tax claim guidelines 13:48 ATO compliance for sole traders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cec Busby sits down with Luke Achterstraat, CEO of the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA), for a discussion about the current landscape for small businesses. With a major decision from the Fair Work Commission to raise the minimum wage by 3.75% set to take effect, Cec and Luke unpack what this change—and a host of other pressing issues such as rising business costs, increasing red tape, late payments, and compliance burdens—means for small business owners. Key topics 1. Current Challenges for Small Business Rising costs: energy, rent, wages, insurance Complex and increasing regulatory and compliance requirements Eroded profitability and productivity due to these pressures 2. COSBOA’s Advocacy and Campaigns “Fair Go for Business” campaign: proposed tax cut from 25% to 20% Ongoing lobbying for less red tape and better policy Engagement and strong support from the small business community 3. Digital and Operational Transformation Push for small business digital adoption and use of AI Need for government support in training and capability building Programs like Cyber Wardens help improve cyber hygiene and digital skills 4. Support and Resources for Small Business Owners Mental health initiatives (e.g. NewAccess for Small Business Owners) Female Entrepreneurs Program and other support services Open invitation for business owners and soloists to get involved with COSBOA 5. The Impact of Policy Decisions Latest minimum wage increase and its cost implications The challenge of passing on new costs to customers The importance of linking wage growth to productivity Timestamped overview 00:00 COSBOA Advocating for Australia's Small Businesses 06:09 Business and Regulatory Challenges 09:17 Small Business Red Tape Burden 12:20 Proposal Gains Strong Voter Support 14:39 "Tax Cuts Boost Small Business Growth" 19:21 "Government-Led Wage Increases Questioned" 20:42 Boosting Productivity Key to Wage Growth 23:12 "Regulatory Impact Assessment Importance" 26:29 AI Boosts Small Business Productivity 31:07 Supporting Small Business Initiatives Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If the mention of AI makes your eyes glaze over, you’re not alone—but what if AI could actually make your business smoother, more efficient, and free up valuable time? To help unravel the mystery (and bust a few myths), Cec is joined by Tracy Sheen, award-winning business tech expert, speaker, founder of The Digital Guide, and bestselling author. With over 30 years spent in the tech trenches—and a brand-new, jargon-free book called AI and You: Reimagine Business—Tracy shares practical advice for solopreneurs and small business owners looking to make sense of AI. Key topics 1. Demystifying AI for Small Business AI isn’t as intimidating as it seems; it's already embedded in everyday tools like Netflix, Google Maps, CRMs, and point-of-sale systems. Most small business owners have been using AI unknowingly for years. The goal is to make AI accessible, jargon-free, and practical for real-world application. 2. Overcoming Misconceptions and Building Mindset Many small businesses see AI as overwhelming, complicated, or even irrelevant—especially in regional Australia. Tracy emphasizes that AI is a collaborator, not a competitor. Success with AI starts with a mindset shift: treat AI as a new team member, not a threat to your business. 3. Practical Getting Started Tips Start small: Use tools like ChatGPT for fun, non-business tasks first to build confidence. Ask questions, play around, and don’t be afraid to “make mistakes”—it’s a learning sandbox. Focus on solving one key business pain point at a time with AI. 4. Recommended Tools & Everyday Applications Google NotebookLM: Great for synthesizing content, brainstorming, and creating conversational podcasts. CastMagic: Useful for repurposing long-form content (like podcasts and webinars) into social clips, emails, and blogs. Choose tools that address your particular business challenges or bottlenecks, whether content creation, marketing, or workflow. 5. Ethics, Transparency & Future-Proofing Be transparent about using AI in your business communications; customers appreciate honesty. Develop an AI policy, especially if you have EU clients, and review it regularly as things evolve. AI adoption is essential for staying competitive—digital literacy and curiosity are key assets for future growth. Time-stamped overview 00:00 "Solopreneurs: AI Simplified" 04:00 Tech as a Social Equalizer 09:17 AI Misunderstandings in Rural Australia 10:53 Everyday AI Usage Awareness 15:55 Embrace Curiosity for Better Answers 17:34 "Google Notebook: Content Conversion Tool" 22:23 "Virtual Teams for Solopreneurs" 25:19 "Social Media Help for Plumber" 27:43 AI Transparency Boosts Business Loyalty 31:42 Agenic AI Streamlines Executive Assistance 35:35 "NoteBookLM: Mind-Blowing Everyday AI Tool" 37:19 Embracing Rapid Technological Change Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Roxanne Calder is a recruitment expert, business founder, and author of the eye-opening book "Earning Power." In this episode Ce and Roxanne unpack the core moments that shape our financial futures, from pay negotiations and navigating maternity leave to the small, everyday decisions that can make a big difference over time. With the gender pay gap costing women a million dollars over their lifetime, this is one episode you don't want to miss. Roxanne shares hard-hitting facts, personal insights, and actionable strategies to help women, and anyone supporting them, close the pay gap and take control of their earning potential. Key topics 1. Understanding & Combating the Gender Pay Gap Women can lose over $1 million due to the pay gap over a career. Factors include discrimination, career breaks (like maternity leave), and industry choice. The importance of being proactive and informed to minimize the impact. 2. The Power of Mindset and Self-Advocacy Women are often conditioned to underestimate their abilities or hesitate in seeking opportunities. Men tend to apply for roles even if underqualified, while women may hold back if not 100% qualified. Practicing negotiation, challenging self-doubt, and confidently asserting value are crucial to bridging the gap. 3. Planning Career Breaks and Re-Entry Financial and career planning before, during, and after maternity leave is essential. Stay connected to your workplace and keep skills updated during breaks. Open conversations with partners and employers about financial goals and upskilling can foster a smoother return. 4. Practical Steps for Business Owners & Professionals Know and confidently communicate your worth—don’t undervalue your services or accept less than deserved. Incremental, sustainable changes (like small savings or upskilling) can compound over time. It’s never too late to improve your financial trajectory—micro-decisions matter. Time stamped overview 00:00 Closing the Workforce Gender Gap 04:46 Gender Wage Disparity in Graduates 10:17 Impact of Maternity on Women's Finances 12:51 Realistic Planning for Maternity Leave 15:31 Know Your Worth in Negotiations 19:43 Empower Change: Choose Your Path 23:23 Resilient Recruiter: Value and Commitment 27:31 Small Steps, Big Impact 30:01 "Smart Savings Habits from First Pay" 31:29 "Earning Power: Take Financial Control" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amy Jacobson is a human behaviour and emotional intelligence specialist, bestselling author, and keynote speaker. She has made it her mission to help leaders and organisations embed emotional intelligence into their workplace culture—something she believes is often overlooked, yet crucial for business success. In this conversation, Cec and Amy explore what emotional intelligence really is, why it’s a gamechanger for business owners, and practical ways to develop these skills—whether you’re managing a team, navigating tricky conversations, or fostering a positive workplace culture, even in remote settings. Drawing on years of hands-on corporate experience and her new book, "The Emotional Intelligence Advantage," Amy shares actionable advice for building empathy, self-awareness, and resilience in both personal and professional life. 1. Emotional Intelligence as a Learnable Skill It’s not an innate trait, but a set of skills that can be developed and improved throughout life. Practice, repetition, and self-awareness are essential to growing emotional intelligence. Ownership and responsibility for one’s actions and emotions is central to EQ. 2. The Crucial Role of Empathy Empathy is different from sympathy: it requires understanding another’s emotions without judgment. Empathy can be taught and is essential for healthy workplace culture and leadership. Practicing empathy helps navigate difficult conversations and build trust. 3. Navigating Difficult Conversations Address tough issues promptly—don’t avoid or delay. Focus on emotions rather than just facts or situations. Use techniques like the “Ask-Ask-Tell” method to encourage self-ownership while maintaining boundaries. Emotional regulation (such as staying calm and listening) is key during heated discussions. 4. Building a Positive Team and Workplace Culture Emotional intelligence underpins workplace culture, especially with remote and flexible teams. Relationships and understanding what makes people “tick” drive effective collaboration. Lack of emotional intelligence can breed toxicity, poor performance, and disengagement. Timestamped overview 00:00 Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace 04:46 Emotional Intelligence: Ownership & Impact 09:23 Teaching Empathy in Toxic Workplaces 12:28 Overcoming Fear in Tough Talks 16:34 "Handling Anger with Empathy" 18:45 "Empathetic Communication Technique" 21:42 Building Emotional Connections 26:17 Perspective on Leadership Differences 29:12 "Breathe: Cultivating Emotional Intelligence" 32:16 Celebrate the Book's Impact Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cec Busby sits down with Gary Waldon—a true master of transformation, whose career has spanned an incredible 44 different jobs, from teacher to topless waiter to CEO advisor, and now bestselling author. Together, they dive deep into the topic of reinvention and the inevitability of change, whether it comes by choice or crashes into your life unexpectedly. Gary shares stories from his colorful career, practical advice for embracing and managing major life and business shifts, and why detaching your identity from your job title is crucial for resilience. You'll also hear about his CREATE framework for navigating change, insights on building a failure-proof mindset, and how emerging technologies like AI can play a pivotal role in your next reinvention. Key topics 1. The Nature of Change & Reinvention ·     Change is inevitable for everyone in life and business. ·     Reinvention means building on past experiences, not starting from scratch. ·     Personal identity is often wrapped up in what we do, making change psychologically challenging. Adapting to both chosen and unexpected disruptions is crucial for growth. 2. Practical Tools for Navigating Change ·     Gary’s CREATE framework: Change happens, Reality check, Empower, Action,Try again, Enjoy it. ·     Taking the first small step breaks the paralysis of fear. ·     Honest self-assessment and seeking outside perspectives help reveal blind spots. ·     Building resilience through a growth mindset and viewing failure as part of the process. 3. Embracing Failure & Overcoming Internal Barriers ·     Acknowledge and address the fear of failure — it’s a major blocker for many. ·     “Bob,” the inner critic, tries to hold us back; recognising and managing self-talk is essential. ·     Using humour helps release emotional tension and brings mental clarity. · Normalise failures and plan detours; anticipate things won’t always go as planned. 4. Leveraging Technology & Keeping Purpose ·     AI and tech are transforming business approaches and opening up new opportunities. ·     Early and proactive exploration of tools like AI can future-proof businesses and careers. ·     Reinvent with purpose—avoid chasing constant newness without direction. ·     Stay curious and open-minded to change, measuring progress and knowing when to pivot. Timestamped overview 00:00 "Mastering Change with Gary Walden" 06:30 Personal Growth Through Life Challenges 08:11 Embracing Change and Moving Forward 11:06 Embracing Change and Resilience 15:46 Empowered Clarity Through Action 18:55 "Resilient Growth Mindset" 23:17 AI Tools Empower Small Business Owners 25:12 Impending AI Revolution Impact 29:22 "Bob: Your Brain's Protective Boss" 31:36 "Laughter: Essential Emotional Release" 34:41 AI: Expanding Personal Opportunities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Flying Solo, we chat with Fiona Campbell – founder of Thought Penny and the VA Lead Network – about how she turned redundancy on maternity leave into a booming remote business. Fiona shares her journey from C-suite EA to virtual assistant queen, her top tips for setting up systems that scale, and how she gets a whopping 70% open rate on her emails. If you’re drowning in to-dos, struggling with delegation or unsure whether a VA is worth the investment, Fiona’s got you covered with smart, actionable advice to streamline your solo business – and reclaim your time. Key topics 1. Building a Successful Remote and VA Business ·     Fiona’s journey from executive assistant to launching Thought Penny and the VA Lead Network ·     The impact of niching down and leveraging online presence to quickly gain clients ·     Addressing common client needs: supplementing skills, freeing up time, and growing teams  2. Essential Systems and Automation for Soloists ·     Importance of task management tools (e.g., Asana) for visibility and organisation ·     Strategies for identifying which business tasks to automate or delegate ·     Encouragement to document workflows, even for solos, to enable growth and efficiency  3. Finding and Working with the Right VA ·     Process of matching business owners with suitable VAs through detailed onboarding and education ·     Avoiding the pitfalls of hiring solely based on lowest cost or unrealistic role expectations ·     Key advice: hire for capability and value, with clear communication and role definition 4. Maximising Email List Engagement and Deliverability ·     Maintaining a high-quality, engaged list through ruthless pruning and double opt-in practices ·     Creating relevant, valuable content and offering subscriber preferences to boost open rates ·     Ensuring technical setup (SPF, DKIM, DMARC) for strong email deliverability and reputation . Timestamped overview 00:00 Streamlining Business with Fiona Campbell 06:12 Virtual Assistant roles & responsibilities 10:06 Letting go in business delegation 11:30 Evaluating task automation needs 15:36 Task management: Digital vs. Paper 20:39 Optimising Virtual Assistant roles 24:19 Beware cheapest Virtual Assistants 28:41 High subscriber lists hurt reputation 31:50 Optimise email engagement strategy 35:02 Optimising email preferences 38:12 "Set SPF records to avoid spam" 40:25 Outsource Tasks You Dislike Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shani Taylor is an award-winning business coach, speaker, best-selling author, and even hailed as the Global Coach of the Year by the Duchess of York. Her passion lies in empowering everyday Aussies to become masters of leadership, sales, and human behaviour, ensuring they can scale their businesses without facing burnout. In this episode, Shani shares her unique journey from a challenging upbringing to her phenomenal success, where she grew her business from scratch to an international success story, serving clients in 25 countries. We'll dive into her philosophy of using conversation and relationship-building as tools for growth, how mindset and behavior are key to scaling businesses, and the crucial role of mentors in one's journey to success. Join us as Shani uncovers her secrets to achieving that elusive seven-figure revenue and learn how you can implement her techniques in your own business endeavours.  Key topics Shani’s business journey and evolution Transition from content creation to a focus on coaching. Initially starting with minimalist goals that led to unexpected success. Development from a focus on her personal needs to broader business coaching. Reflection on how her services and business model have evolved over time. Mindset and daily habits for success Importance of starting the day with business priorities. Shani’s disciplined approach to balancing health, business, and personal life. The concept of anchoring actions to navigate fleeting emotions. Prioritizing business tasks over leisure to maintain momentum and growth. Role of mentorship in business growth The impact of mentors who have achieved desired outcomes on her success. Distinction between free mentorship and investing in quality guidance. The importance of surrounding oneself with mentors who tell the hard truths. Emphasis on the value of paid programs and serious coaching for true growth. Leadership and resilience The significance of self-leadership before influencing others. Understanding the necessity of compartmentalization in effective leadership. Coping with the daily emotional fluctuations of business through designated reflection time. Building resilience to withstand the challenges and criticism that come with entrepreneurship. Timestamped overview 05:01 Exceptional Intrapreneurial Dedication 10:11 Authentic Coaching: Practicing What You Preach 13:27 Building Resilience for Business Growth 15:36 Start Your Day with Priority 19:53 McMentorship vs. Quality Mentorship 21:53 Prioritising Business: A Daily Ritual 27:00 Compartmentalising Emotions in Leadership 28:33 Emotional Management with Timers 34:00 Symbolic $100 Business Gesture Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Todd Polke, is an investor, entrepreneur, and international educator in wealth creation. With over two decades of experience assisting thousands in mastering their finances, Todd is here to share insights from his new book, "Escape the Middle." This episode promises to equip you with strategies to tackle financial stagnation and construct a future tailored to your financial goals. Whether you're just beginning your financial journey or looking to elevate your wealth, Todd's expertise will motivate you towards achieving economic independence. Don't miss this conversation filled with practical steps to help you take charge of your money and transform your financial future. Key topics Foundational Principles of Wealth Creation Recognition that traditional approaches to money management may lead to burnout and stagnation. Emphasis on the importance of changing financial rules to achieve sustainable growth. Understanding that value creation, rather than time-for-money exchanges, paves the way for financial freedom. Business and Personal Wealth Integration Importance of treating personal finance like a business with clear strategies and systems. Leveraging business profits to build personal wealth outside of the business itself. Creating a "Finance Farm" to allocate funds into purpose-driven accounts for future wealth. Developing a Wealth-Oriented Mindset Necessity of mindset shifts to break traditional financial beliefs and adopt millionaire habits. Overcoming self-limiting beliefs by stepping out of comfort zones and learning continuously. Instituting habits like micro-investing and "Money Night" to regularly manage and grow wealth. Practical Financial Strategies for Solopreneurs Automating financial processes with technology to ensure consistent wealth-building actions. Viewing wealth creation as attainable and normalizing it as part of everyday life. Adapting strategies based on individual life stages, affirming it's never too late to start. Timestamped overview 00:00 "Financial Freedom with Todd Polke" 04:54 Success Requires a System 07:15 Prioritize Personal Wealth Now 11:07 "Building Financial Foundations" 14:45 Automate Financial Goals Setup 19:52 "Adopting Millionaire Habits" 22:39 "Weekly Wealth Hour" 26:27 Micro Investing for Wealth Creation 30:20 Invest Equity, Not Just Pay Mortgage 32:13 Rethink Mortgage Payoff Strategies 37:03 The Nature of Comfort Zones 40:58 "Escape the Middle" Availability Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emma Lagerlow, a wealth and mindset coach, entrepreneur, and author of Worthy and Wealthy. In this episode of Flying Solo, Emma shares her journey and insights on building a life of abundance by aligning self-worth, purpose, well-being, and time. Listeners can expect to learn about the five pillars Emma believes make up a truly wealthy life, how self-worth influences financial empowerment, and why aligning your purpose with your work or passions is key to true wealth. Emma also delves into the importance of being money mindful, breaking free from scarcity mindsets, and finding harmony between personal growth and financial success. Whether you're a solopreneur struggling to balance time and business or someone seeking financial freedom, this episode promises valuable takeaways on living a rich life on your own terms. Sit back, relax, and get ready to rethink your approach to wealth! Key points 1.Redefining Wealth Wealth goes beyond financial accumulation to include self-worth, purpose, well-being, and freedom. Emma's shift from a corporate career to focusing on holistic wealth reflected in her book "Worthy and Wealthy." Importance of feeling abundant and fulfilled in the present, not just in financial security. 2. Mindset and Empowerment Self-worth significantly impacts financial empowerment and decision-making. Overcoming the scarcity mindset involves awareness and intentional financial behavior. Tools like journaling and affirmations can help shift money beliefs and improve financial mindset. 3. Purpose and Personal Growth Aligning personal purpose with business goals enhances fulfillment and success. Financial freedom should incorporate well-being and purposeful living, not just accumulation. Time management and prioritizing personal well-being support a harmonious balance between work and life. 4. Practical Application and Teaching Open discussions and practical exercises like chores help teach kids financial principles. Emma emphasizes the importance of transparency in financial discussions with family. Applying wealth principles requires continuous reflection and adjustment to align with life changes. Timestamped overview 00:00 Redefining Wealth Through Life Experience 05:35 "Balancing Self-Care, Money, and Time" 09:01 "Money Mindset Awareness & Action" 10:20 Money Mindfulness and Beliefs 15:41 Defining Financial Freedom 17:56 Time Management for Business Owners 21:33 "Redefining Wealth Beyond Material Success" 25:05 Align Life with True Purpose 27:00 "Reframing Wealth with Emma" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the episode, we're joined by the incredible Ingrid Maynard, a renowned sales performance expert and founder of The Sales Doctor. Ingrid is here to revolutionise the way you think about selling! We'lll dive into Ingrid's game-changing approach that turns your entire business into a sales engine without the usual pressure. Ingrid shares why simply being customer-centric isn't enough anymore and how you can build value at every touch point in your business. We'll hear about Ingrid's journey from a shy, introverted teenager at The Body Shop to becoming a national sales manager and author of "The Sales Revolution." Key Topics Sales Strategy and Methodology Introduction of "Culture of Customer" concept to frame sales differently. Components: Customer consciousness—treating everyone as a customer—and commercial competence. Focus on value delivery through financial, functional, and emotional benefits. Shifts from traditional selling to value-based conversations to enhance customer relationships. Overcoming Sales Challenges Suggested higher activity levels and engagement to drive sales pipeline. Emphasized the importance of relationship building and trust as the foundation of sales. Identifying and leveraging opportunities with existing and past customers first. Creating structured, outcome-driven conversations to better connect with clients. Practical Sales Tips for Solopreneurs Encouragement to step out from behind the screen and engage face-to-face. Increasing frequency and quality of interactions to nurture the ecosystem. Understanding competitors not to fixate on them but to better position one’s offerings. Exploring different channels where customers are active, like social networks or business networks. These topics offer a comprehensive view of the strategies and advice discussed in the episode. Timestamped overview: 00:00 "Shy Teen's Sales Transformation" 03:54 "Transformative Journey into Service-Oriented Selling" 09:45 Mastering the Art of Business Offers 12:55 "Understanding Real Sales Value" 14:13 "Understanding Value in Sales" 18:20 "Customer Consciousness & Commercial Competence" 21:53 Transforming Sales Through Genuine Help 26:58 Engaging Multiple Decision Makers 28:12 "Understanding Presence and Competition" 33:11 Optimizing Revenue with Certainty 35:08 Embrace In-Person Meetings Again Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Melissa Browne, an award-winning former accountant and financial advisor who has built three seven-figure businesses in different industries. In this episode of Flying Solo Melissa shares her journey from an accidental business owner to a strategic entrepreneur, She discusses why now is the perfect time to start a business and offers practical insights for soloists and small business owners on managing finances, pricing strategies, and creating successful business structures. Whether you're dreaming of a side hustle or aiming to scale your enterprise, Melissa's advice will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the challenges of modern entrepreneurship. Tune in to gain valuable tips that could transform your business approach and boost your success. Key topics Challenges in running a profitable business The Internet has made it cheaper and easier to start a business, but profitability remains a challenge. Market dynamics have shifted with increased global competition and cautious consumer spending habits. Business success requires more than just talent in one's field; it demands strong business skills and strategic planning. Common mistakes and strategies for new business owners Mistake: Assuming everyone is a potential customer instead of targeting a specific niche. The need to have a well-defined marketing strategy that goes beyond just acquiring new customers and includes retention plans. Importance of pricing strategies that take into account customer psychology and competitors' pricing. Understanding and tracking business numbers Significant metrics to track from the start include conversion rates, retention rates, and cash flow. Importance of accounting practices: Using business bank accounts, paying oneself a regular amount, and keeping track of tax obligations. Making decisions based on a combination of data insights and business intuition to stay agile and adaptable. Pricing Ssrategies Determining value-based pricing by understanding market needs and what customers are willing to pay. Implementing pricing psychology techniques, such as charm pricing and decoy pricing, to influence customer perception. Regularly reviewing and potentially adjusting pricing structures and packages to maintain competitiveness and profitability. Timestamped overview 00:00 Intro to Melissa 05:45 Targeted Marketing & Customer Retention 09:47 "Essential Business Numbers to Track" 12:06 New Business Success Metrics Focus 16:33 Shrinkflation and Pricing Strategies 18:13 Decoy Pricing Strategy Explained 21:36 Sole Trader Business Setup Guide 24:22 "Consult Accountant Before Starting Business" 29:16 "Understanding Numbers Boosts Business Success" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, we're joined by David Fastuca, co-author of the B2B Sales Playbook. David, who has successfully built a $150 million sales pipeline and scaled a SaaS business in a competitive market, shares his expertise on developing a simple, repeatable sales system that stands out from the pushy tactics many dread. We'll explore key aspects like the impact of AI on sales, the importance of having a structured sales operating system, and actionable insights for overcoming common sales challenges. Whether you're struggling to land deals or looking to refine your sales approach, this episode is a must-listen for actionable strategies and practical advice. Tune in and transform your sales game today! Key Topics David Fastuca's Sales Journey and B2B Sales Playbook: Transitioned from graphic design to sales out of necessity. Co-authored the B2B Sales Playbook with Luigi Preston. The book is designed to be highly actionable and helps founders and salespeople establish a structured sales process. Provides templates, scripts, and resources to resolve sales roadblocks and enhance sales efficiency. Sales Operating System (Sales OS) and Multichannel Outbound Approach: A structured system is crucial for habit-forming and consistent sales results. Employs multichannel outreach, including email, phone, social selling, and instant messaging. Increases response rates and nurtures leads by diversifying communication methods. Helps in building confidence and understanding real market feedback for growth and refinement. Timestamped overview 00:00 Intro to Dave 05:24 Embrace AI or Fall Behind 06:44 AI Enhances Customer Engagement Efficiency 10:22 Human Oversight Required for AI 14:26 "Belief, Market Need, Feedback Loop" 18:36 Turning Cold Calls Into Warm Leads 20:47 Strategic Prospect Engagement Steps 22:55 Continuous Customer Understanding Essential 29:00 Personalized Messaging Over Generic Outreach 32:25 AI Analysis for Sales Insights 33:25 "B2B Sales Playbook Preview" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices