The Freedom Kickstarter Podcast

You’ve read the books, watched the YouTube videos, and maybe even taken a few courses, but that one question still nags you: how do you actually get your first client?In this solo episode, Mike breaks down four proven, battle-tested ways to land your first paying copywriting gig, the same methods that have helped generate over $200M in client revenue and launch the careers of 600+ new copywriters.From personalised cold outreach to crafting a value-driven portfolio, joining agencies, and building your personal brand, this episode gives you a realistic, actionable roadmap to go from “no clients” to “in demand.”What You’ll Learn:* Why most “guru” tactics about getting clients fall flat* The right way to do cold outreach (and stand out in crowded inboxes)* How to create a prospecting portfolio that gets noticed even with no clients yet* When working for free actually makes sense (and how to make it work for you)* The hidden advantages of starting in an agency environment* Why building a personal brand works long-term but not overnight* The mindset shifts that help you secure your first client and turn it into many moreKey Takeaways:* Don’t chase hacks, build trust one meaningful interaction at a time.* Ten thoughtful outreaches beat a thousand mass emails.* Your first client isn’t about money, it’s about momentum and proof.* Over-deliver early, it’s your best marketing strategy.Resources & LinksWatch the free ABP Masterclass: [https://www.thefreedomkickstarter.com/abp-masterclass]Join the ABP Waitlist: [https://www.thefreedomkickstarter.com/abp-waitlist]

Every copywriter has heard the same question: “What’s the best book to learn copywriting?”In this episode, we dive into nine essential books every copywriter should read, from timeless classics like Breakthrough Advertising to modern mindset shifters like Alchemy and Key Person of Influence.But the real gem of this conversation?The controversial advice at the end: why the best way to become a great copywriter might just be to stop reading and start writing.Books Mentioned1. The 4-Hour Workweek — Tim Ferriss2. The Advertising Solution — Brian Kurtz & Craig Simpson3. Purple Cow — Seth Godin4. Alchemy — Rory Sutherland5. Key Person of Influence — Daniel Priestley6. The Ultimate Sales Letter — Dan KennedyKey Takeaways Principles don’t age. Copywriting trends change, but human behaviour doesn’t.Being “safe” kills creativity. Stand out like a Purple Cow.Learn to think, not just to write. Behavioural insights > formulaic hacks.Position yourself as a key person of influence. Niching down multiplies opportunity.Stop reading so much — start writing. Mastery comes from doing, not just studying.The Controversial Truth “If you want to get great at copy, stop reading and start writing.”Books can inspire, but writing every day builds intuition, persuasion, and rhythm.Analyse ads. Deconstruct headlines. Rewrite winning emails.That’s how real copywriters get good.Connect & Continue* 💬 Which copywriting book changed your career? Drop it in the comments.* 🔔 Subscribe for more grounded conversations about writing, marketing, and business growth.

Most email welcome sequences are terrible.Too pushy. Too desperate. Too full of “hacks” that make your audience run for the unsubscribe button.This episode shows you how to flip the script — and build a welcome sequence that actually builds trust, starts relationships the right way, and sells (without feeling gross).If you want to stop chasing quick wins and instead build a business full of customers who want to buy from you again and again… this one’s for you.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy 99% of welcome sequences fail (and what to do differently)The one thing your first email MUST do before anything elseHow to use “value-first” positioning to create trust that compoundsWhy selling in email #1 is a trap (and what to send instead)A sneaky trick to get people replying — and why that trains inboxes to treat you like a friend, not spamA simple 3-email framework that balances story, proof, and offersEpisode Breakdown– Why most welcome sequences suck– What a welcome sequence actually is– Delivering the thing they signed up for (seriously, don’t skip this)– Value-first vs. freebie seekers (the truth)– Why you should not sell in email one– The inbox trick that gets you into “Primary” instead of spam– A 3-email structure you can steal todayLinks & ResourcesFollow along on YouTube for more breakdowns like this → [Subscribe here]Got feedback or want to share your take? Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear it.If you’re ready to stop pushing discount codes and start building an email list full of lifelong fans, hit play and let’s go.

In 2019, I launched the Freedom Kickstarter, a copywriting course that went on to make over £700,000 in sales. More than half a million of that came organically, no fancy funnels, no tech wizardry, and no hypey marketing tactics that make you feel like you need a shower afterwards.In this episode, I break down exactly how I did it step-by-step and how you can replicate the structure, whether you’re selling a course, service, or even physical products.You’ll discover:* The Offer Hook That Stood Out – Why “earn £350/hour” beat generic “learn copywriting” promises.* The Unique Mechanism – How identifying 5 core pillars made the course different (without making anything up).* 18 Months of Reciprocity – The value of emailing without selling… and why it made launch day a no-brainer for buyers.* Building in Public – How showing behind-the-scenes stoked demand before the cart even opened.* The Secondary Benefit Principle – Why adding a second aligned benefit can be the real sales driver.* Risk Removal Done Right – The double guarantee that made saying “yes” feel safe.* Post-Launch Momentum – Using student results to create FOMO for the next enrolment.* Price Increases With Integrity – How structured launch phases encouraged early action (and built trust).This isn’t theory, it’s the exact blueprint that turned a tiny 1,400-person email list into a multi–six-figure business.If you want to see the actual emails that sold the course, stick around until the end, I’ll tell you how to get them.

Is it still possible to hit 6-figures as a copywriter in 2025?Short answer: yes but the game has changed.In this solo episode, I break down the real roadmap my most successful students are using to build profitable copywriting businesses from scratch (many hitting £10K–£20K/month without spending their lives in the DMs or ghostwriting tweet threads).You’ll get the 7 exact steps that consistently produce high-income earners, even if you’re just starting out.Forget the recycled advice. This is about what is actually working now.Whether you're stuck under 3K/month or want to scale more sustainably, this episode is your blueprint.In This Episode, I talk about:Why generalist copywriters stay broke, and what to do insteadHow to actually study great copy (hint: it's more than saving swipe files)The surprising power of genuine relationships over cold pitchingHow to use AI to 10x your outreach without losing the human touchWhy consistent follow-up is your secret weaponHow to lead with value, not desperationThe simple pricing psychology that increased my average project fees overnightThis isn’t overnight success stuff.The highest-paid writers I mentor/coach have one thing in common: they play the long game with discipline and intention.If you're serious about building a six-figure writing business, one that gives you more freedom and better clients this episode maps it out step by step.

In this special episode, I answer questions submitted via Instagram, covering everything from the mindset and values behind successful business relationships to starting over with zero audience, leveraging AI in copy, and the controversial line between values and politics in business. This is an honest, strategic, no-hype session loaded with insights for freelancers, copywriters, and business owners alike.If you’ve ever wondered what tools, traits, or tactics actually matter in building a long-term business, this one’s for you.Some of What I talk about in This Episode:01: Traits That Earn (and Lose) Respect in Business→ Why doing what you say matters more than hype→ The quiet power of punctuality and consistency→ Why trend-chasing and flakiness kill credibility02: Starting from Zero: No List, No Network—Now What?→ The simple mindset shift to rebuild from scratch→ Real-world strategies to find and help people without expectation→ The underestimated value of networking and no-risk offers03: Starting a Business in a New Industry→ Why ultra-endurance could be a goldmine→ The hidden value in “boring” service businesses→ How to spot untapped potential in legacy sectors04: Do You *Need* Social Media to Be a Copywriter?→ Short answer: No.→ Long answer: Depends on your business model→ When it’s a liability vs. when it’s a leverage point05: Best AI Editing Tools (And Why It Doesn’t Really Matter)→ The surprising truth about tool choice→ What matters more than the tool you use06: How Good is AI for Copywriting?→ The benefits: research, editing, ideation→ The risks: sounding “right” but failing to connect→ Why AI won’t make up for lack of skill or emotional nuance07: Talking Politics, Values & Clients→ When sharing your views builds stronger client rapport→ Why values ≠ party politics→ The types of clients you *want* your opinions to repelNotable Quotes:> “Consistency is a massive thing. If someone’s just chasing trends, I find that a red flag.”> “I’d find people I could help and do it with no expectation—because business is about people.”> “Social media is a long game. If you need clients now, outreach beats Instagram every time.”> “AI is good. But until you’ve honed your craft, you won’t know if it’s *good enough*.”> “If someone gets overly emotional about your opinion, they’re probably not your client.”Final Takeaway:You don’t need perfect tools or 10K followers to build a durable business. Show up. Do what you say. Know your values. And don’t be afraid to polarise when it comes to what matters.

In this deeply inspiring episode, Mike sits down with Phil Robertson, the creator of the Flawed Hero Marathon, a midnight running event that blends radical inclusivity, human resilience, and raw community power. What started with a cardboard cutout of Phil’s late father and a Facebook post has evolved into one of the most meaningful and emotional endurance events on the UK calendar.From battling the ego-fueled world of mainstream marathons to supporting runners with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stage 4 cancer, and even a Morrison’s mobility scooter, Phil shares what it really means to show up, both for yourself and for others. If you've ever questioned what you're capable of, this episode is your reminder: you're more than you think.What We Discussed:* Why Flawed Hero is more than a marathon, it’s a movement* The real purpose behind charity running events (hint: it’s not the medal)* How to challenge your self-imposed limits through community and story* Why “running time” is often the least important metric* The surprising mental health power of midnight marathons and micro-communities* What “post-marathon blues” really feel like, and how to beat them* How biohacking, breathwork, and barefoot grounding fit into the Flawed Hero mindset* Why every runner needs to find their “fellow weirdos”Memorable Quotes“We’re not perfect, but we’re not broken either. We’re flawed heroes.”“The marathon isn’t about speed. It’s about belief, resilience, and community.”“Running is the therapy. The real marathon starts at mile 20 of your life.”“Some people run sub-3 hours. Others push a mobility scooter through the night. *Both* are heroes.”“Fundraising isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing your pain, your joy, your reason.”Tools, Books & Mentions* Book Recommendation: Key Person of Influence by Daniel PriestleyFinal Five (Rapid Fire Round)* Go-to coffee order? Flat White* One platform you’d delete? Instagram – “Let’s just drop the gram.”* Dinner party guests? His late parents and comedian Michael McIntyre* Advice to get where he is? “Be resilient. Be persistent. Find your fellow weirdos.”* Top book pick? Key Person of Influence more relevant now than everIf You Liked This Episode…👉 Like, share, and subscribe.👉 Tag a friend who needs this reminder: they are more capable than they think.👉 Want to run a midnight marathon with 100 legends in 2026? Follow [@flawedheromovement](https://www.instagram.com/flawedheromovement) for updates.

In this candid and no-holds-barred episode, we sit down with Jewade Graham, an online transformation coach who’s on a mission to fix the fitness industry from the inside out. Joé works exclusively with personal trainers, helping them get in the best shape of their life and build the systems to deliver real results for their clients not just followers.Together, we dive deep into why the online fitness world is broken, how social media has warped what it means to be a “coach,” and the truth about business mentorships that prey on insecurity and inexperience.Whether you're a personal trainer, coach, or just someone navigating this noisy online space, this episode will challenge your assumptions, call out the fluff, and show you what real growth looks like in business and in life.What we Discuss:Why many “online coaches” are really just marketers with no client resultsThe real reason PTs need coaches themselves, even if they already “know the info”Why mentorship without experience is dangerous for both coach and clientThe damaging loop of dopamine hits from likes, follows, and aestheticsHow Jewade uses personal transformation as a tool to help coaches build a businessThe difference between short-term vanity and long-term credibilityWhy most fitness business mentors should be on a one-way flight to DubaiHow AI will expose underperforming coaches, and why that's a good thing🗣 Memorable Quotes> “If you’re not delivering a result, you’re not a coach – you’re a marketer.”> “AI won’t replace the human connection. But it will flush out the ones who were never coaching to begin with.”> “Most people don’t need more knowledge. They need systems, structure, and support.”> “A textbook doesn’t prepare you for real-life clients. People do.”> “You’re not lazy. You’re just trying to fight ingrained habits with zero tools.”Tools, Books & Mentions* Book Recommendation: Unreasonable Hospitality – an unexpected gem on the power of service* InstagramFinal Five* Go-to coffee order? Mocha (even when dieting, just swap for sweeteners)* Social media platform you’d delete? TikTok* Dinner guests (alive or dead)? Mike Tyson, a gorilla (yes, really), and Messi* Most powerful business lesson? Invest early. Invest often. Don’t rush.* One word that defines his coaching? Relatability📢 Like This Episode?If this episode got you thinking differently about fitness, coaching, or business mentorship, help us spread the message:🔔 Subscribe👍 Like💬 Drop a comment🔗 Share with a friendFreedom Kickstarter Podcast is where honest conversations meet practical business growth.

In this raw, honest, and deeply reflective episode of the Freedom Kickstarter podcast, I sit down with long-time online coach Jonathan Hamilton Potter founder of Reinvent Dadbod for a conversation that’s about so much more than business.Jonathan opens up about the real behind-the-scenes of running a coaching brand, including the mental health battles no one sees, the crash-and-burn of a failed business partnership, and what it’s really like to run a business while managing ADHD and depression.Expect stories that punch, practical insight, and perspective-shifting moments all from a man who’s spent nearly two decades in the trenches of coaching and content creation.Whether you’re a coach, creator, or just someone trying to figure out how to stay consistent through the chaos, this episode is for you.What We Discussed:How Jonathan went from near rock bottom to building Reinvent DadbodWhy “just doing the thing” might be the most powerful antidote to depression and procrastinationThe real cost of a bad business partnership (and what to do if you’re in one)How to operate a business when mental health isn’t on your sideWhat ADHD really looks like behind the scenes (not just TikTok stereotypes)The truth about motivation, self-worth, and getting stuff done when you feel like sh\*tWhy transparency beats perfection in online coachingThe power of doing less but better when you're overwhelmedJonathan on Mental Health & Business:“When you do what you’re putting off, the fog lifts. That’s always been the quickest way out of it for me.”“I don’t want to build a business that relies on me being perfect — because I’m not. And I won’t pretend to be.”About Jonathan:Jonathan Hamilton Potter is an online coach and founder of Reinvent Dadbod, a fitness coaching program specifically designed for dads who want to reclaim their energy, health, and identity. With over 17 years of experience in the fitness industry — and hard-earned wisdom from the battles of self-employment, parenthood, and personal setbacks — Jonathan is known for his no-fluff, deeply human approach to coaching.Find Jonathan online:Instagram: [@reinventdadbod](https://www.instagram.com/reinventdadbod)Website: [reinventdadbod.co.uk](https://www.reinventdadbod.co.uk/home)Final Five:1. Book recommendation:The Millionaire Fastlane* by MJ DeMarco — “Ignore the name. It’s not a get-rich book. It’s about what it really takes to build something that lasts.”2. Coffee order:Skinny flat white — or a cortado when he’s feeling fancy.3. Social media platform to delete:Facebook — “No one sees anything anymore. It’s basically useless.”4. Dinner party guests:* Mike Tyson* Gordon Ramsay* Marlon Brando5. One piece of advice for others:“Just do the thing. You won’t learn what works until you do something — even if it fails.”If you’re building a business while battling your own mind, this episode is a reminder you’re not alone — and there’s always a way forward.

In this candid, no-BS episode of the Freedom Kickstarter podcast, I sit down with Stu McKenzie, a high-ticket sales veteran and sales team builder for an unfiltered conversation about what it really takes to sell premium offers, scale your income through sales calls, and avoid the common traps most coaches fall into.Stu unpacks the difference between objection handling and objection awareness, and why rapport isn't about talking football or the weather, and how to build a sales process that converts without relying on gimmicks or fake scripts.This one’s a deep dive covering everything from beginner closers to elite-level persuasion tactics, frameworks vs scripts, UK vs US sales cultures, and how to sell without losing your soul.What we Discussed:* Why most people completely misunderstand what sales conversations are actually for* The hidden fears behind most objections (and how to spot them early)* The REAL reason “high-ticket” isn’t just about price and what matters more* Why being a “friend” on a sales call might lose you the client* How to lead conversations that challenge people without being pushy or fake* What scripts are good for (and where they go wrong)* Why Stu believes proof and *positioning* matter more than pitch decks* How the UK and US markets think completely differently about buying* Where to draw the line: when your offer should (and shouldn’t) involve a call* What hiring a sales team actually looks like and why most business owners mess it upStu’s Take on Sales:> "Sales is just a conversation between two adults, if you can’t challenge people, you shouldn’t be selling."About Stu McKenzie:Stu is a sales consultant and team builder who helps founders move from solo high-ticket closer to full-blown sales team operator. From closing on £99 challenges to scaling teams for 6- and 7-figure businesses, Stu’s known for his straight-talking approach and deep expertise across the psychology of buyer behaviour, objection handling, and strategic team development.Follow Stu on Instagram✋ The Final Five:1. Book recommendation:Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss — for learning negotiation tactics that actually work.2. Coffee order:Cortado (addicted, in his own words).3. Social media platform to kill:Meta — no hesitation.4. Dream dinner guests:Jeffrey Epstein (for questions, not celebration), 50 Cent, and… an unnamed third who definitely shouldn’t be picked by Epstein.5. One piece of advice:> "You’re gonna have to eat some shit. Do the hard reps. Sales is still the easiest, lowest-risk path to making real money online,but you’ve got to knock on doors before they open."🎧 Listen now, take notes, and if you’re serious about improving your sales game this one’s unmissable.

In this jam-packed episode, Sam McKenzie a performance nutritionist and founder of Science to Health joins us to unpack the real science behind nutrition, health trends, and working with elite athletes.Whether you're a coach, athlete, weekend warrior, or someone sick of misinformation online, this episode is an eye-opener. We get into the real-world practices vs theory, and Sam pulls no punches on pseudoscience, poor supplement advice, and the TRT craze sweeping through social media.Expect to leave with a more critical lens, clear strategies, and a much better understanding of how to optimise your body safely.Topics We Covered:* Why Sam refuses to niche down and why that’s worked for him* How he broke into working with elite athletes (and the DMs that started it all)* The shocking truth about weight cuts in combat sports* Why most “scientific advice” passed down in sport is wildly outdated* Dangerous trends in fitness culture: laxatives, dehydration, and sauna abuse* Why detoxes, alkaline water, and supplement stacks are a scam for most people* TRT and testosterone myths: when it is needed… and when it’s a disaster* The dark side of overtraining—and how social media fuels it* Recovery myths vs reality (spoiler: compression boots aren’t the answer)* How Sam balances science with empathy in his client work* When more isn’t better, and why your stress might be your biggest health block🧠 Final Five Questions:1. Most Recommended Resource:My Sport Science AcademyMNU Certification by Martin MacDonald2. Go-to Coffee Order:Caramel cappuccino (yes, even the nutritionist treats himself)3. Social Platform to Kill Off:Instagram — or at least regulate the misinformation4. Dream Dinner Party Guests:Gary Brecka (for a challenging conversation)Paul Smith (comedian)Danny Lennon (nutrition educator)5. #1 Piece of Advice for Aspiring Coaches:“Slow down. Do quality work. Stop chasing shortcuts—build something real.”Enjoyed this episode?Like, share, and leave a review to help us reach more listeners. Got feedback or a guest recommendation? DM us!Catch you on the next one.

In this episode of the Freedom Kickstarter Podcast, Mike sits down with Cath Rearhorn, founder of Kind Copy, to talk about building a sustainable, service-based business using words that work and feel good. From her unexpected journey from academia to personal training to copywriting, to running a thriving agency alongside her family, Kath shares an unfiltered look at what it takes to create copy that converts without twisting the knife.We unpack the evolution of her bespoke and group offers, how AI has transformed her workflow, why copywriters need more than just “words,” and what it means to truly build a business you want to be in not escape from.Expect a conversation packed with wisdom, wit, and war stories from the world of marketing, business building, and being kind without being soft.Key Topics Covered:-The story behind Kind Copy and why kindness is strategic, not soft-Building out group vs bespoke offers-How Kath uses AI to increase clarity, reduce burnout, and surface patterns-Business lessons from hitting breaking point (literally)-Separating personal from business finances to create stability-Why working with family saved her business and the pros/cons of it-Copywriting beyond fitness: evolving the niche-The unspoken power of *talking to your audience when you're not selling*-What bad vulnerability looks like (and how to avoid it)-What most fitness pros still get wrong in their contentFinal Five:1. Book gift: Anything by Rory Sutherland2. Coffee order: Flat White3. Delete a platform: LinkedIn—“I don't think anybody would notice”4. Dinner party guests: Rick Mayall, Angela Lansbury (as Jessica Fletcher), Stevie Nicks5. Advice for new copywriters: “Learn from people who’ve done it but develop your own style through practice.”🔗 Connect with Cath:Instagram: [@kindcopyuk](https://www.instagram.com/kindcopyuk)🔁 If You Enjoyed This Episode:Like, comment, and shareSubscribe to the show for more real-talk convos with founders, marketers, and freedom-first builders

Today’s guest is Jack Gadd, a men’s fat loss coach known for his consistent, grounded approach to online coaching. From engineering day jobs and protein bar subscription boxes to managing 100+ coaching clients, Jack breaks down how he built a coaching brand that prioritizes results over reels and long-term change over short-term fads.We explore:-The state of the online coaching space and how it's shifted in recent years-Why following trends hurt Jack’s business—and how getting back to fundamentals rebuilt it-The hidden downside of going viral and growing a follower base that doesn’t convert-The exact strategies Jack used to niche down and attract the right kind of clients-What it’s really like to juggle 80–100+ coaching clients and still make family time work-The importance of mentorship, accountability, and investing in your own development-Jack’s pivot from failed subscription box owner to fat loss authority-Why working with people for free early on still works—and how it accelerated Jack’s success-What being your own ideal client does for your content, message, and conversions-Jack’s full day breakdown, from 5AM check-ins to 7PM bath time chaos🔑 Key Takeaways:* Don’t chase trends: Chasing virality diluted Jack’s message and attracted the wrong clients.* Stick to fundamentals: Consistency and results still matter more than likes and views.* Mentorship matters: Business growth accelerated when Jack got (and kept) a mentor.* Start simple: Working with clients for free built trust, testimonials, and momentum.* Be your own case study: Jack’s content is a mirror of his life and that’s what connects.Final Five with Jack:1. Book Recommendation:The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel$100M Leads by Alex Hormozi2. Coffee Order:Dieting? Americano with a splash of milkNot dieting? Flat white3. Social Platform to Delete:Pinterest (“So my wife stops sending house project ideas.”)4. Dinner Guests:Warren BuffettElon MuskPaul Walker5. Advice to His Younger Self: “Get skin in the game. Coach people for free. Build proof before you build offers.”🎧 Like This Episode?Tap Subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone ready to turn a coaching hustle into a sustainable business.Until next time stay consistent, stay committed.

For the first time on the Freedom Kickstarter Podcast, we dive into a reaction episode, and we’re going big. We're unpacking the explosive Diary of a CEO debate between entrepreneur Daniel Priestley and former trader Gary Stevenson.But this isn’t a surface-level opinion piece. With me today is someone who’s spent over a decade managing hundreds of millions in assets and operating at the heart of the financial world, my partner, Victoria. She brings insider clarity to the economic claims, emotional rhetoric, and financial myths presented in the original debate.From generational wealth and home ownership to taxation, policy, and the ethics of wealth redistribution, we take apart the loudest claims and dig into what’s actually true and what’s dangerously misleading.Key Topics Covered- Why the housing “traffic jam” is real, and what’s missing from Gary’s take- Misconceptions around equity, credit, and homeownership- The truth about wealth taxes, the millionaire exodus, and UK fiscal policy- How emotional storytelling replaces economic substance — and why that’s a problem- Victoria's take on why financial literacy is the real key to change- The myth of “no opportunity” for younger generations- Why preaching defeatism is more harmful than helpful- Gary's monetisation strategy vs. his messaging, is it all a grift?This isn’t just a takedown. It’s a passionate call for critical thinking, open debate, and real financial education. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by economic doom narratives, this episode might just give you the tools and perspective to fight back with logic, not just feelings.Connect With Victoria📸 Instagram: @everywherevictoriagoesResources MentionedDiary of a CEO: Daniel Priestly vs. Gary Stevenson EpisodeSpread the WordIf this episode challenged your thinking, made you laugh, or even made you mad, share it.💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments🔗 Share it with a Gary fan or a critic

In this episode, I’m joined by martial arts school owner turned business coach Sam Trickett.We dive into what it really looks like to build a business that supports your life, not consumes it especially when you’ve got a young family and zero interest in working 60+ hour weeks. From his early side hustles and failed flyer runs to creating a thriving local business and a growing coaching offer, Sam breaks down the key mindset and marketing shifts that made the difference.Expect real talk on growth, fatherhood, fitness, boundaries, and building a life you don’t need to escape from.In This Episode, We discuss:How Sam used becoming a dad at 20 as fuel—not fear—for business growthWhy downscaling his business actually gave him more freedom and incomeThe truth about flyers, leaflets, and why most local marketing failsSam’s value-first outreach strategy using Loom videos and personal auditsHow to build an in-person community that people never want to leaveThe shift from martial arts instructor to business mentor (and how he’s landing clients organically)The real reason Sam’s not chasing a 7-figure empire—and what he’s focusing on insteadMemorable Quotes“You don’t need more leads, you just need to start conversations with the ones already watching you.”“I told myself, if I’m earning enough to cover my priorities and I’ve got time for my family, then I’m good.”“Just because you could do something, doesn’t mean you should.”“Every interaction leaves an impression. If people leave your business, leave the door open and the relationship strong.”Connect with Sam TrickettInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/_samtrickett/Final Five1. If you could gift one book to your past self?The One Page Marketing Plan by Allan Dib2. What’s your go-to coffee order?Espresso with hot water and half a teaspoon of brown sugar3. Three dream dinner guests (dead or alive)?Muhammad Ali, Eminem, Bob Marley4. One platform you’d delete if you could?Twitter/X5. One piece of advice for someone trying to grow a family-first business like yours?Prioritise your time, protect your energy, invest in your health, and build skills that compound.Enjoyed this episode?If you found this conversation valuable, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. It helps us bring more incredible guests like Sam and share actionable insights with you!📩 Got questions? Drop them in the comments or message us on social media.See you in the next episode! 🎧

In this episode, we get into the numbers, and not in a boring way. Chartered accountant and business strategist Laura Powner joins Mike to unpack how entrepreneurs can use financial data as a launchpad for sustainable growth and eventual exit. If you've ever felt like you're winging it with your pricing, don't know what your data's really saying, or are overwhelmed by the idea of building a business that could actually be sold… this one's for you.Laura blends finance, strategy, and systems thinking to help six-figure founders grow and scale businesses that don’t just generate revenue, they build wealth.What We Cover:Why most founders are chasing leads when they should be mining assets they already haveThe real reason people avoid looking at their numbers (and what to do about it)Common gaps that kill profitability—and how to plug themHow to build a business that someone else actually wants to buyWhat your accountant should be doing for you (but probably isn’t)Why launching a course as your first product is often a huge mistakeHow to think about pricing from an ROI perspective (not insecurity or guessing)What due diligence in a sale really looks like (spoiler: it’s intense)The mindset shift that helps you act like a business owner, not just a service provider💥 Laura’s Top Quotes:“Most people attach their self-worth to their numbers, which makes them scared to look.”“Everyone has a vision, but no one can tell me where they’re actually at today.”“You need to build a business that someone else can run the day after you sell it.”“People give up too soon, they post once, get no clients, and think it didn’t work.”Connect with Laura:Discover the hidden leaks draining your revenue with Laura Powner's free Profit Leaks Detector quiz. Laurapowner.com – access all her businesses hereThe Final Five1. If you could gift one business/marketing/mindset book to someone, what would it be and why?📚 Traction by Gino Wickman – Even if you’re a one-person business, read it. It’ll show you how to run like a real company.2. We’re going for a coffee and I’m buying. What’s your order?☕ Ginger tea (no caffeine allowed!).3. You’re hosting a dinner party for 3 people (living or dead). Who’s coming and why?Louise Hay – for shaping her mindset during a pivotal career momentJason Manford – to keep the laughs comingGino D’Acampo – someone’s gotta cook!4. You can delete one social platform forever. Which one?🗑️ TikTok – no hesitation.5. What’s your best piece of advice for someone starting out who wants to be where you are?"Do the hard yards. Get involved. Talk to people. Ask what their problems are. You can’t build something meaningful if you skip the messy middle."🎧 Like this episode?Tag us on socials, leave a review, and don’t forget to hit follow/subscribe for more no-fluff business convos. Got questions or guest requests? Drop them in the comments or DM Mike directly.

In this episode of the Freedom Kickstarter Podcast, we sit down with Emerald Fisk; Emerald is a property investor, speaker, and financial services professional. Over the past 7–8 years, she’s built a portfolio of properties using creative financing strategies, while also helping other Investors secure funding for their deals. She's trained as a speaker, mentors new investors, and is currently completing her financial advisor qualifications. From personal training to public speaking, Emerald’s career path has been anything but linearand in this episode, she shares the lessons she’s learned from spinning multiple plates (and smashing through ceilings along the way).In This Episode, we discuss:How Emerald transitioned from personal trainer to full-time property investorThe mindset shift from financial freedom to freedom of choiceWhy she believes her chaotic first year was essential and why she wouldn’t recommend it to anyoneThe structure of her go-to property strategy: Buy > Refurb > RefinanceHow she bought a £250k property with just £50k upfront using deferred payment termsThe power of unpaid mentors, high-quality conversations, and just being in the roomHow she became a confident speaker by leaning into discomfort (and practice)Tips for managing multiple businesses — and still staying saneWhat most people get wrong about delegation, taxes, and growing wealthQuote to Remember:“Most people don’t want to be financially free and sit on a beach. They want the choice to do what they want each day.”Resources & Mentions:Book: Living With a SEAL by Jesse ItzlerBook: Taxtopia – the driest but most fascinating tax book she’s ever readProperty Strategy: Buy, refurbish, refinance (B.R.R.)Speaking Tip: Practice every day — and rehearse in your car if you have toLife Principle: Delegate early, and accept that people might actually be better than youFinal FiveBook recommendation? Living With a SEAL – hilarious and inspiringCoffee order? Oat latteDinner party guests? Elon Musk, David Goggins, Jade Holland CooperDelete a social platform? Twitter (sorry Elon)One piece of advice? Meet more people. Give more than you take. Enjoy it along the way.Enjoyed this episode?If you found this conversation valuable, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. It helps us bring more incredible guests like Emerald and share actionable insights with you!📩 Got questions? Drop them in the comments or message Mike on social media.See you in the next episode!

From humble beginnings running a uni kickboxing club to building a business that helps fighters land head kicks around the world, Luke Thomas (aka The Head Kick Specialist) shares his story. We get into scrappy gym launches, COVID curveballs, the dark side of business partnerships, what it really takes to build a micro-niche empire, and how mastering your mindset around money can transform everything.Whether you're in fitness, coaching, or just building something online this is the kind of honest, no-filter episode that brings the realness.What We Talk About:Why most fighters can’t kick above the waist (and how Luke fixes it)How running a university club turned into a gym and later a full online businessThe gym dream: £15k loans, dodgy leases, break-ins… and breakthrough momentsPivoting online when COVID shut everything downCreating his first product by accident and donating the profits to charityWhy micro-niches print money (if you listen to your market)The first £1,000 client and what really shifted to get that saleLuke’s money mindset journey: from scarcity to premium pricingThe danger of partnerships and how a close friendship ended in legal falloutCreating perceived authority (even when you’re early)Why flexibility isn’t just about stretching—it’s scienceBeing lazy, impatient, and still building something greatHow to actually kick someone in the headFinal Five:1. One book you'd gift to every entrepreneur?The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel "A game-changer for understanding how money actually works, not just how to make it."2. Go-to coffee order (and are you treating)?"If you're buying, I'm getting a pastry too and probably offering to grab one for the guy behind us. Generosity all the way."3. Dinner party guests – any 3, living or dead?Muhammad AliOne of the Stoic philosophersJoe Rogan – "Need someone to lift the mood and pass the vape."4. If you could delete one social media platform forever?"Facebook. Get it gone. Apart from the Dull Men’s Club and the spoons challenges it’s a mess."5. One piece of advice for anyone who wants to build a business like yours?“Take risks. Train yourself to stop caring what people think. Martial arts changed my life not just physically, but mentally. Get comfortable being uncomfortable. Learn to fight. It’ll teach you everything about business too.”🔥 Luke’s Big Takeaways:“Perception in the market matters more than people want to admit. I don’t just teach flexibility I kick better than anyone else. That’s why people pay attention.”“You can have all the knowledge in the world, but if you’ve got a poor money mindset, you’ll always sabotage yourself.”“Environment is everything. Want to be better? Get around better people.”Mentioned in the Episode:The Psychology of Money – Morgan HouselThe Advertising SolutionMindset – Carol DweckAtomic Habits – James ClearDan Kennedy’s teachingsDan Meredith (mentor)Connect with Luke:🔗 InstagramLike the episode? Leave a comment, hit subscribe, and tell someone who needs to hear it

In this episode of the Freedom Kickstarter Podcast, I sit down with Keith Commins, a seasoned sales funnel designer with a deep understanding of direct response marketing and conversion-focused web design. Keith shares his journey from working in corporate IT to becoming a self-taught expert in sales funnels and digital marketing. We dive into his early experiences hacking games and computers, his transition into entrepreneurship, and how he discovered direct response marketing out of necessity. Keith also talks about his experience working with top marketers like Ben Settle and John McCulloch, and how he positioned himself as the go-to web designer for copywriters and direct response professionals. Beyond business, we discuss Keith’s views on personal sovereignty, digital nomadism, and his strong libertarian ethos. He shares insights on the importance of choosing who you work with, avoiding bureaucracy, and how his desire for independence has shaped both his business and lifestyle. If you want to learn how to build sales funnels that convert, take control of your business, and live on your own terms, this episode is for you. What We Talk About in This Episode:✅ How Keith transitioned from corporate IT to becoming a sales funnel expert ✅ The biggest mistakes he made when starting his business and how he turned things around ✅ Why direct response marketing is the key to business success (and how he mastered it) ✅ The power of positioning how Keith became the top choice for high-level marketers ✅ His take on personal sovereignty, libertarianism, and digital nomadism ✅ The best and worst places for digital nomads to live and work ✅ Why Spain and Mexico are his top choices for long-term living Resources & Mentions:📖 Book Recommendation: Grow Your Business Fast by John McCulloch Keith’s Instagram Final Five Questions:1️⃣ If you could gift one business, marketing, or mindset book to someone, what would it be? → Grow Your Business Fast by John McCulloch 2️⃣ What’s your go-to coffee order? → Flat White3️⃣ If you could delete one social media platform, which one would it be? → TikTok (“TikTok brain is real.”) 4️⃣ Three people (living or dead) you’d invite to a dinner party? → JFK, Martin Luther King Jr., and Mick Jagger 5️⃣ Best advice for someone who wants to do what you do? → Learn direct response marketing first, master copywriting and sales psychology, then develop the tech skills to execute high-converting funnels.Enjoyed This Episode?If you found value in today’s conversation, subscribe to the podcast and leave a review! Got a question for Keith or me? Drop it in the comments or connect with Keith at the links above. 🎙️ Like, share, and subscribe for more real conversations on business, marketing, and freedom.

In this episode of the Freedom Kickstarter Podcast, we sit down with Paul Standell, an experienced personal trainer turned online fitness coach and educator. Paul shares his journey from working on gym floors to coaching PTs on how to build sustainable fitness businesses. With over 15 years in the industry, he dives into the misconceptions of online coaching, the importance of developing real skills, and why personal trainers need more than just a certification to thrive. Expect candid insights, industry rants, and practical advice for fitness professionals looking to scale their business and impact.What We Cover in This Episode:Paul’s Background & Elevator Pitch – How he transitioned from drama school to fitness coaching. Early Days in PT – The reality of building a client base and why personal training qualifications fall short. How to Stand Out as a PT – The importance of building trust, marketing yourself, and approaching clients with confidence. The Transition to Online Coaching – The myths, struggles, and realities of shifting from in-person PT to online coaching. Content Creation & Business Growth – How Paul found his voice through engaging ‘fitness rant’ videos and why storytelling matters in marketing. Biomechanics & PT Education – Why Paul got deep into biomechanics and how it transformed his coaching. Common Mistakes PTs Make – The dangers of blindly following fitness trends and business mentors. Marketing & Content Strategy – How Paul balances different business offers and effectively markets his services. The Power of Mentorship – Why hiring mentors and learning from experts can accelerate your success. Final Five – Quickfire Questions:Book Recommendation: Alchemy by Rory Sutherland – Great marketing insights, even if it’s tricky to apply directly to fitness. Go-To Coffee Order: White Americano (or a cold brew if the mood is right). Social Media Platform to Eliminate: TikTok – No personal use, so wouldn’t miss it. Three Dream Dinner Guests: Julius Caesar, Historian Will Durant, and Stephen Fry. Best Advice for Aspiring Coaches: Get a mentor sooner rather than later and learn from people who are where you want to be. Resources & Links:📌 Follow Paul on Instagram: @PaulStandell 📌 Check Out The PT ProjectConnect with Us:📩 Join the Newsletter 📱 Follow Mike on Socials: Coffee Shopy Copywriter ----------------------------------------------------------------Enjoyed this episode?If you found this conversation valuable, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. It helps us bring more incredible guests like Paul and share actionable insights with you!See you in the next episode! 🎧