Grow A Small Business Podcast

QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Amanda Jones interviews Taylor Victoria, founder of Level Up Outsourcing and host of the "She's Making Millions" podcast. Taylor shares how she built a 7-figure outsourcing agency after struggling to find a job at 22. She explains how outsourcing transforms lives in the Philippines and why business owners must embrace AI as a co-pilot rather than fear it. Taylor highlights the power of personal development, time audits, and team alignment for high performance. She encourages business owners to explore AI tools and automate tasks to create freedom and grow their business. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Embrace AI as a Co-Pilot, Not a Threat: AI won't replace your business — but business owners using AI will. Stay proactive and learn new tools weekly. Audit Your Time to Find What to Automate: Track your tasks for 1–2 weeks and use AI to identify what can be automated or delegated to free up your energy. Invest in Personal Development: Your business grows when you grow. Events, learning, and self-reflection directly impact performance and results. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Build High-Performing Teams With Clear Systems: Review your team's workflows, improve efficiency, and let people focus on high-ROI work by pairing them with AI tools. Use Outsourcing to Scale Smarter: Global talent can transform your operations and create life-changing opportunities for others, especially in the Philippines. Prepare Your Business to Be an Asset, Not a Job:  Automating processes and reducing dependency on you increases business value — making it easier to scale or eventually sell. One action small business owners can take: According to Taylor Victoria, one action small business owners can take is to upload their weekly tasks into ChatGPT and ask which processes can be automated with AI, then commit to implementing one automation within the next seven days. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: AI won't replace you, but the business owner using AI will replace your business — Taylor Victoria Replace yourself with better systems, and you'll earn a promotion in your own company — Taylor Victoria Your business grows the moment you decide to grow yourself first — Taylor Victoria      

In this episode of the Grow A Small Business Podcast, host Troy Trewin interviews Mitch McGinley, founder of Boutique Fitness Broker, joins the podcast to share how he transformed a struggling yoga studio into a 5× exit and went on to help over 70 owners sell their businesses. He talks about growing his brokerage to $20M in annual deals, the emotional ups and downs of exiting, and the common mistakes owners make when preparing for a sale. Mitch opens up about navigating COVID, learning disciplined focus, and building a business that now supports his dream life in Spain. His journey blends resilience, smart strategy, and deep passion for helping small business owners achieve life-changing exits. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Mitch McGinley says the hardest thing in growing a small business is learning how to say no. He explains that owners constantly get pulled in different directions — ideas, opportunities, people, problems — and without the discipline to say no, you end up overwhelmed and unfocused. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Mitch McGinley says his favorite business book is "Built to Sell" because it clearly explains how to shape a business into a scalable, well-structured operation that can run without the owner and eventually be sold for strong value, making it one of the most useful guides he's ever read. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Mitch McGinley says there are many great podcasts and online learning resources to help grow a small business, but instead of naming just one, he recommends continuously listening to a wide variety of shows and learning platforms because each one offers unique perspectives, lessons, and insights that can help business owners improve their skills, sharpen their thinking, and stay adaptable as their business grows. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Mitch McGinley says that the number one tool or resource he recommends for growing a small business is artificial intelligence, because owners who don't embrace AI right now risk falling behind, while those who use it can save time, make smarter decisions, improve marketing, and operate far more efficiently. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Mitch McGinley says the advice he would give himself on day one of starting out in business is simply "It's gonna be okay." He explains that the journey is full of stress, doubt, and unexpected challenges, but looking back, he realizes that things always work out when you stay consistent, keep learning, and push through the hard moments. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: You don't owe anybody anything, so focus on the few things that truly matter each day – Mitch McGinley Sell your business when everything is perfect, not when you're going through chaos –  Mitch McGinley Discipline is the habit that keeps small business owners moving forward when everything feels overwhelming – Mitch McGinley  

QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse!   Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week.   Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends!   In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Amanda Jones interviews Brian Proctor shares his unique upbringing as the son of legendary personal development teacher Bob Proctor and how he now continues his father's legacy through books, programs and coaching. He reflects on authenticity, daily small actions and reconnecting with joy as essential tools for overwhelmed small business owners. Brian emphasizes the importance of clarity, worthy goals, using imagination and eliminating procrastination through simple daily practices. He also discusses lessons from his upcoming book, encouraging listeners to "quit screwing around" and bet on themselves. This episode is filled with heartfelt stories, practical strategies, and powerful reminders to take small steps every day toward a life and business you truly want. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Small daily actions create big transformations — Brian emphasizes that most people look for a massive breakthrough but overlook the power of doing one small meaningful task every single day.   Clarity is everything — Overwhelm often comes from a lack of direction; Brian urges business owners to step back, find quiet time, and define a clear, worthy goal for their life and business.   Reconnect with joy — Instead of grinding endlessly, he encourages finding joy in daily life, taking breaks, and doing activities that refill your energy and creativity. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for?   Eliminate procrastination through simplicity — Brian shares his father's powerful habit: write down five things to accomplish the next day, then focus on completing them one at a time.   Use imagination to think beyond current circumstances — Exercises like imagining how you'd spend $5 million help shift mindset from limitations to possibility, sparking vision and motivation.   Bet on yourself — The strongest message of the episode: stop letting others' opinions shape your path. Get clear on what you want, write a letter from your future self, and take action toward the life you truly want. One action small business owners can take: According to Brian Proctor, one action small business owners can take is to write down five things tonight that they want to accomplish tomorrow, then focus solely on completing the first task before moving to the next. This creates clarity, reduces overwhelm, and builds consistent daily momentum. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Stay authentic, speak from your heart, and do the little things every day – Brian Proctor Bet on yourself and never let others' opinions dictate your direction – Brian Proctor Clarity of purpose turns overwhelm into powerful forward momentum – Brian Proctor  

In this episode of the Grow A Small Business Podcast, host Troy Trewin interviews Andrew Griffiths as he shares his journey from a rough childhood to buying a dive shop at 17, making major mistakes, and eventually mastering business growth. He built a marketing company to multimillion-dollar success, survived partner betrayals, and later found his true passion in writing and speaking. With 14 bestselling books and over a thousand presentations in 25 countries worldwide, he focuses on helping small business owners build financial resilience and charge what they're worth. Andrew's focus is helping business owners to redefine success on their own terms, embrace what makes them truly unique, master the art of strategic storytelling and get as close as you can to your customers. His story is an inspiring example of resilience, reinvention, and long-term entrepreneurial thinking. Andrew's latest bestselling book "Someone has to be the most expensive why not make it you?" is transforming businesses across every industry, in every corner of the planet. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Andrew Griffiths, the hardest part of growing a small business is managing cash and money. He explained that in his early years, dealing with financial pressure and cash flow was the toughest challenge he faced while scaling his business. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Andrew Griffiths' favorite business book—the one that helped him the most — is "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? According to Andrew Griffiths, while he consumes a wide range of learning material, one of the online learning resources he personally values is the work of Brendan Burchard, whose programs and coaching have influenced his professional development. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? According to Andrew Griffiths, a simple but powerful tool he recommends for growing a small business is your phone, using it to regularly record videos and communicate directly with customers to build stronger engagement and visibility. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Andrew Griffiths says that if he could give advice to himself on day one of starting his business, he would tell himself to trust his intuition, because many of the business mistakes he made over the years were situations where his gut was right, but he ignored it and let logic overrule it.  Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Constant learning makes business owners more resilient and ready for constant reinvention – Andrew Griffiths Customer proximity is the ultimate strategy because loyal customers can sustain your business through anything – Andrew Griffiths Trust your intuition in business, because it will guide you more accurately than logic alone – Andrew Griffiths  

QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Rob Cameron interviews Sarah Williams from Leading Culture Limited shares how improving workplace culture can dramatically lift business performance, explaining how communication gaps and unclear direction create major problems inside teams. She outlines her diagnostic approach to uncover culture issues, backed by a real case study where clarity and engagement led to higher productivity and lower staff turnover. The conversation highlights how business owners often underestimate the financial impact of team morale, showing that people and numbers are directly connected in driving meaningful growth. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Strong culture boosts performance – when communication and expectations are clear, productivity rises and problems shrink. People drive the numbers – financial results are a reflection of how well teams are supported, aligned, and motivated. Communication is almost always the core issue – when facts are missing, myths and harmful assumptions fill the gap. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Small and midsize companies can change faster – they are more agile and can act on advice without slow bureaucracy. Diagnosing the problem comes first – interviews, observations, and listening reveal what's actually happening inside the culture. Fixing culture saves real money – reducing turnover, improving engagement, and aligning goals can deliver huge financial returns. One action small business owners can take: According to Sarah Williams, one action small business owners can take is to communicate more clearly and more often, making sure every team member understands the direction of the business, what's expected of them, and how their role contributes to the bigger goals. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: The numbers are just a reflection of what your people are doing every day – Sarah Williams When communication lacks facts, people will fill the gaps with stories – Sarah Williams If you want faster progress, support and accountability will always get you there – Sarah Williams  

n this episode of the Grow A Small Business Podcast, host Troy Trewin interviews Casey Berman, founder of Leave Law Behind Casey joins Troy to share his journey from a law career he found unfulfilling to building a thriving business helping lawyers transition into new careers. Starting with blogging in 2010, Casey turned his personal story into a coaching business, later scaling it with online courses. He and his business partner now run a lean, lifestyle-driven company with five team members, generating around half a million USD annually. Casey reflects on the importance of discipline, alignment, and emotional connection in entrepreneurship, while emphasizing the value of balance, automation, and continuous learning in sustaining growth. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Casey Berman, the hardest thing in growing a small business is feeling worthy of success. He explains that as the business starts making good money, many entrepreneurs struggle internally with questions about whether they deserve it or how success might change them. Casey admits he once worried about becoming greedy or losing his values but learned that money itself isn't the issue—it's the love of money that causes problems. Over time, he realized that maintaining generosity, reinvesting in the business, and focusing on helping others allowed him to embrace success without guilt. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Casey Berman's favorite business book that has helped him the most is The Million-Dollar, One-Person Business by Elaine Pofeldt. He found it inspiring because it showed that it's possible to build a lean, highly profitable business without a large team — something that aligns closely with how he runs Leave Law Behind. He also mentioned Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki as another influential read, especially early in his career, because it opened his eyes to the difference between being an employee and becoming an entrepreneur. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Casey Berman recommends several great podcasts and online resources for small business growth, including the Work From The Inside Out podcast episode "Discover Your Unique Genius to Build Meaningful Work," where he shares how to align your strengths with meaningful entrepreneurship, and the Digital Marketing Success Stories episode with West Kraemer, where he discusses strategies for building a niche audience and online following. He also shares practical business insights on his own website, www.caseyberman.com, focusing on growth, purpose, mindset, and transitioning from employee to entrepreneur. These resources emphasize discovering your unique value, mastering marketing in your niche, and developing the mindset needed to confidently grow and sustain a successful small business. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Casey Berman shared that the most crucial tool for growing a small business is a robust CRM platform, which he credits as the central nervous system for managing all customer interactions and streamlining operations. He specifically highlighted the value of a CRM with integrated texting capabilities, like Salesmate.io, for enabling effective and personalized outreach to clients. This system allows a business to consolidate contacts, automate key processes, and handle payments seamlessly from one unified hub. By implementing such a foundational tool, companies can achieve greater efficiency and scalability without needing a large team. Ultimately, he champions a powerful CRM as the key to systematizing sales and marketing for sustainable growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Casey Berman would advise his day-one self that the entrepreneurial journey is an ongoing process of personal growth, not a destination to be reached. He would emphasize the critical importance of learning to enjoy the entire slog, with all its inherent ups and downs, rather than just chasing a future moment of "success." He'd stress that true happiness is found in the process of becoming your ideal self through the challenges of building a business. Finally, he would encourage himself to see and appreciate his own development, recognizing that the person behind the business is the most important project of all. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Find power in discipline by mastering the work when inspiration is absent - Casey Berman Elevate your marketing by aligning your energy with your purpose - Casey Berman Unlock success by falling in love with the process, not the prize - Casey Berman      

QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Rob Cameron interviews Gail Eaton-Briggs, founder of Every When Solutions, shares how her concept of Conscious Grit helps small business owners move from burnout and self-doubt to clarity and purpose. Drawing on her background in leadership and neuroscience, Gail explains how awareness, mindset shifts, and deliberate action can transform both individuals and teams. She highlights the importance of recognizing tipping points, building resilience, and surrounding yourself with supportive people. Through her coaching and online programs, Gail empowers business owners to grow with confidence and authenticity. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Shift from Unconscious to Conscious Grit – Success requires more than hard work; it's about being aware, intentional, and strategic in your actions. Mindset Matters Most – Regularly check in with your thoughts and beliefs; developing a growth mindset can completely transform your business outlook. Recognize Your Tipping Point – Pay attention to pivotal moments or advice that can spark meaningful change and move you toward conscious growth. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Invest in Deep Development – Growth doesn't happen in a single session or workshop; it takes consistent reflection, learning, and practice over time. Choose Your Circle Wisely – Surround yourself with supportive people who lift you up, not "emotional vampires" who drain your energy and confidence. Value Your Worth – Don't undervalue your services; believe in the quality of what you offer and price it accordingly—your clients will respect it. One action small business owners can take: According to Gail Eaton-Briggs, one action small business owners can take is to consciously check in with their mindset. If you are feeling stuck or overwhelmed, assess your internal dialogue and actively work to shift from a fixed to a growth mindset. She recommends seeking out resources on achieving a growth mindset to help reframe challenges as solvable opportunities. This practice is essential for moving from a state of exhausting "unconscious grit" to a powerful and deliberate "conscious grit," where you can start making tangible progress. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: To move from exhausted to empowered, you must shift from unconscious grit to conscious grit - Gail Eaton-Briggs Your tipping point is often just one piece of trusted advice away from changing your entire trajectory - Gail Eaton-Briggs Be mindful of the emotional vampires in your life, the people you allow to influence you will either sustain or drain your energy - Gail Eaton-Briggs  

In this episode of the Grow A Small Business Podcast, host Troy Trewin interviews John D. Marvin, former President and CEO of Texas State Optical, shares his 25-year journey leading one of America's most iconic optical brands. He talks about growing the company from 100 to 130 locations and over $130 million in annual revenue, adapting to major industry disruptions, and mentoring the next generation of optometrists. John also dives into lessons on leadership, faith over fear, and the power of listening to customers. His story is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and building purpose-driven growth in a changing marketplace. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to John D. Marvin, the hardest thing about growing a small business is implementing change. He explains that it's easy to keep doing what's familiar, but real growth requires the courage to challenge old habits and adapt to new realities. Marvin points out that while individuals struggle with personal change, organizational change is even tougher—because it involves employees, resistance, and the fear of losing people. Yet, without embracing change, he says, a business risks becoming irrelevant. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? John D. Marvin's favorite business book is Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. He says it has helped him the most because it lays out the 13 core principles of success, not just for making money but for living a rich and meaningful life. For Marvin, the biggest lesson from the book is that success begins with mastering your thoughts — what you focus on and believe ultimately shapes the results you achieve. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? John D. Marvin, former President and CEO of Texas State Optical, recommends continuously learning from great resources to grow a small business. He often listens to John Maxwell's Leadership Podcast for insights on personal and team development, and explores podcasts or materials by authors whose books he's currently reading to deepen his understanding. Marvin emphasizes the value of ongoing education through audiobooks and practical leadership content, believing that consistent learning, reflection, and application are key to adapting and thriving in business. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? John D. Marvin recommends using strong time management and scheduling tools to grow a small business. He believes that success often comes down to discipline — keeping promises, managing priorities, and staying organized. Marvin emphasizes using a reliable calendar or planner, whether digital (like Apple Calendar) or traditional (such as Franklin Covey or Day-Timer systems), to plan ahead and follow through on commitments. For him, effective scheduling isn't just about productivity — it's about building trust, consistency, and professionalism, which are the real foundations of sustainable business growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? John D. Marvin says the advice he'd give himself on day one of starting out in business is simple but powerful — just start. He admits that in his early years, he often delayed taking action because he felt he needed to study more or perfect his plan first. Over time, he realized that true learning and progress only happen through doing, not waiting. Marvin compares it to climbing mountains — you build the skills and confidence to tackle bigger challenges by starting with smaller ones. His message to new entrepreneurs: don't wait for perfect conditions — take the first step, learn along the way, and keep climbing. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Replace fear with faith, and you'll start seeing opportunities where others see obstacles — John D. Marvin The only way to learn how to climb mountains is by climbing mountains — start small, but start now — John D. Marvin Success begins with mastering your thoughts; what you focus on is what you create — John D. Marvin  

QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Rob Cameron interviews Etinosa Agbonlahor, CEO of Decision Alpha, about how behavioral economics can transform pricing strategies for small businesses. Etinosa explains how confident pricing decisions not only increase revenue but also strengthen customer retention and long-term growth. She shares insights into using psychology to frame prices effectively and highlights the importance of reviewing pricing regularly. The conversation also touches on overcoming the fear of raising prices and building confidence as a business owner. Etinosa's Behavioral Pricing Playbook explains how to create pricing that scales, sticks, and prevents revenue leaks. Around 80% of businesses undervalue their offerings—and it shows. Most pricing decisions are reactive, based on gut feelings, competitor comparisons, or fear of losing clients. Many business owners postpone pricing optimization until much later, missing out on the powerful compounding effect it could have early on. Studies reveal that improving pricing delivers 2–4 times greater revenue impact than focusing solely on customer acquisition. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Review Your Pricing Regularly – Treat pricing as a business feature, not a one-time task. Revisit it quarterly to ensure it reflects your current value and market position. Confidence is Key – Most pricing problems come from mindset, not the market. Believe in the value you provide before setting or adjusting prices. Use Psychology in Pricing – How you frame your prices matters as much as the numbers themselves. Smart positioning can make your offers more appealing. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Simplify the Customer's Choice – Structure pricing tiers so customers naturally choose your ideal package. Most buyers lean toward the middle option when presented clearly. Reduce the "Pain of Paying" – For low-cost products, consider annual payments over monthly ones to lessen customer resistance and reduce churn. Retain Before You Acquire – Focus on keeping existing customers happy and increasing their spending rather than constantly chasing new ones. One action small business owners can take: According to Etinosa Agbonlahor, one action small business owners can take is to review their pricing strategy regularly—analyzing whether it truly reflects the value they offer and aligns with customer perception. By treating pricing as an ongoing process rather than a one-time setup, business owners can boost profitability, strengthen confidence, and ensure sustainable growth. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Pricing isn't just about numbers, it's about confidence and the value you believe you deliver – Etinosa Agbonlahor The biggest pricing challenge often lives between your ears, not in the market – Etinosa Agbonlahor Treat your pricing like a living feature of your business, not a set-and-forget decision – Etinosa Agbonlahor      

In this episode of the Grow A Small Business Podcast, host Troy Trewin interviews John Ferguson, founder of Hobart Gutter Guard Co., shares his journey from working in community services to building a $500K lifestyle business. Starting as a side hustle in 2018, he grew the company through smart systems, clear SOPs, and delegation. By hiring a virtual assistant and automating operations, John reduced his workload to just two hours a week. After selling half the business, he now focuses on expanding the model across Australia. His story is a powerful example of how vision, structure, and marketing mastery can turn a small local business into a scalable success. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to John Ferguson, the hardest thing in growing a small business is the isolation and loneliness that come with being a solopreneur. He explained that working alone – especially on tasks like marketing, sales copy, and SEO—can feel isolating because there's no one to share wins or frustrations with. That lack of daily collaboration makes it challenging to stay motivated and balanced while managing all aspects of the business. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? John Ferguson mentioned that his favorite business book that helped him the most is "Sell Like Crazy" by Sabri Suby. He said it's the best sales book he's ever read, providing powerful insights into marketing, sales psychology, and conversion strategies. The book helped him sharpen his approach to attracting and converting customers, which played a key role in growing Hobart Gutter Guard Co. into a highly profitable business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? John Ferguson recommends listening to SEO and Google Ads podcasts to stay sharp on digital marketing, as these have been key in his business growth. He also listens to the Grow a Small Business Podcast and other interview-style shows to learn from real entrepreneurs' journeys. For learning, he prefers YouTube tutorials and audiobooks over formal courses, as they allow him to study while working or driving. Ferguson believes that consistent self-learning through podcasts and online resources is essential for any small business owner wanting to improve marketing, systems, and overall growth. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? John Ferguson recommends using a CRM and pipeline management tool as the most powerful resource for growing a small business. He believes having an all-in-one platform that combines lead tracking, automation, and communication can completely transform operations. Instead of juggling multiple apps, a single integrated system helps manage customers, streamline workflows, and improve response times, especially for service-based businesses. Ferguson credits this approach for saving him hours of manual work each week and making his business more efficient, scalable, and profitable. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? John Ferguson's advice to his day-one self would be to keep everything simple — from the business model and offer to the systems and operations. He believes simplicity creates clarity, reduces stress, and makes scaling easier. Ferguson explained that many entrepreneurs overcomplicate their processes with unnecessary tools and jargon, which slows growth. His biggest lesson is that a simple, repeatable system and a clear vision are far more powerful than a complex setup, and that focusing on doing the basics exceptionally well is the real key to long-term success. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Keep your business simple, repeatable, and clear to create real growth — John Ferguson Freedom in business comes from systems, not endless hours of work — John Ferguson Success isn't about doing everything yourself, it's about building a process that runs without you — John Ferguson  

QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Amanda Jones interviews Dylan Pargiter-Green, founder of Bold Wealth, to explore how courage, clarity, and purpose can reshape the way we think about money and success. Dylan shares his journey from financial advisor to business owner, revealing how "Be Better, Be Well, Be Bold" became more than a tagline—it's a philosophy for life and growth. He opens up about helping clients find balance between building wealth and truly living well, while also reflecting on lessons from running a service-based business. From setting meaningful goals to rewarding yourself along the way, Dylan's insights remind entrepreneurs that real success isn't just about numbers—it's about fulfillment. Whether you're building a business or redefining your relationship with money, this conversation is a must-listen. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Reward Yourself Along the Way – Don't wait until retirement to enjoy your hard work. Pay yourself fairly and appreciate the small milestones as your business grows. Set Clear Goals and Review Them Often – Reflect on your progress every few months. Identify what's working, fix what isn't, and keep your goals practical and measurable. Align Business and Personal Wealth – Your business should support your lifestyle and long-term wellbeing. Make financial choices that strengthen both areas together. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Build Genuine Relationships – Success in business comes from understanding people. Take time to know your clients' values, dreams, and priorities to create lasting trust. Embrace Change and the Unknown – You can't predict everything. Learn quickly from challenges, adapt with a positive mindset, and keep improving with every experience. Activity Breeds Success – Stay active and engaged. Say yes to opportunities, meet new people, and always keep learning—the more you do, the more success will follow. One action small business owners can take: According to Dylan Pargiter-Green, one action small business owners can take is to set aside dedicated time every six months to review both their business and personal goals. This reflection helps identify what's working, where improvements are needed, and ensures their business growth aligns with their personal wellbeing and financial security. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Activity breeds success—say yes to opportunities, keep learning, and growth will follow — Dylan Pargiter-Green Being bold means pushing yourself a little further every day to become better and live well — Dylan Pargiter-Green Real wealth isn't just about numbers; it's about living a life that feels truly meaningful — Dylan Pargiter-Green      

In this episode of the Grow A Small Business Podcast, host Troy Trewin interviews Andy Gwynn, founder of Three Degrees Social, based in Málaga, Spain. Andy shares his inspiring journey from being a business coach to becoming a LinkedIn marketing expert, helping small business owners generate consistent leads and engagement through powerful digital strategies. He discusses how consistency, mindset, and leveraging technology have been key to his success, along with valuable lessons learned from franchising, scaling, and adapting to change. Andy's story is a great example of resilience, innovation, and the power of building meaningful connections online. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Andy Gwynn, the hardest thing in growing a small business is mastering sales and marketing. Many business owners struggle to effectively promote and sell their products or services, even when they offer great value. Andy believes that consistent marketing, clear systems, and the ability to adapt quickly are essential for sustainable growth. He also emphasizes that as a business scales, systemizing operations becomes one of the biggest challenges, requiring strong processes to support rapid expansion and maintain quality.  What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? According to Andy Gwynn, the business book that has helped him the most is "The E-Myth Revisited" by Michael Gerber. He explains that it taught him the importance of systemizing a business so it can run efficiently without relying solely on the owner. Andy also recommends "The Business Coach" by Brad Sugars, which aligns with his coaching background, and "Rich Dad Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki, for shifting the mindset from simply working in a business to building one that creates long-term wealth and investment opportunities. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? According to Andy Gwynn, some of the best online learning resources for growing a small business include ChatGPT, YouTube, and the teachings of Russell Brunson, especially for improving webinars and sales strategies. He also values using platforms like LinkedIn for continuous learning and networking with experts in different industries. While Andy doesn't host his own dedicated podcast, he frequently shares insights through interviews and training content under his company, Three Degrees Social, helping business owners master LinkedIn marketing and digital growth strategies. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? According to Andy Gwynn, one of the best tools to help grow a small business is LinkedIn, especially when used strategically for sales and relationship building. He recommends using advanced LinkedIn features like Sales Navigator to identify ideal clients, automate outreach, and maintain consistent engagement. Andy also highlights the value of tools such as ChatGPT, Xero for bookkeeping, Dashlane for password management, and GoHighLevel for CRM and marketing automation. Together, these tools help small business owners save time, stay organized, and build meaningful connections that drive sustainable growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? According to Andy Gwynn, the advice he would give himself on day one of starting out in business is to follow the system and get out of his own way. He admits that in the early days, he often let overconfidence and complacency lead to missed sales opportunities or inconsistent results. Andy emphasizes the importance of learning proven systems, sticking to them, and maintaining focus instead of constantly trying to reinvent the process. His key message is that success comes from discipline, structure, and trusting the process rather than relying solely on natural talent or intuition. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Massive action times the right stuff times consistency equals results — Andy Gwynn Be militant with your time because discipline creates success — Andy Gwynn If you're totally honest with yourself and truly happy, that's real success — Andy Gwynn      

QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Rob Cameron interviews Trent Morgan, founder of Motivision, shares how he helps businesses overcome burnout, poor accountability, and misaligned teams through leadership alignment and cultural transformation. He explains the importance of clarity, communication, and regular team check-ins to build trust and improve performance. Trent discusses real-world examples of companies that reduced turnover and reignited motivation by aligning people with purpose. He also highlights the impact of systems and structure in sustaining growth. His insights reveal why most business issues stem from a lack of clarity, not performance. Listeners will learn practical steps to create more connected and purpose-driven workplaces. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Clarity is the foundation of success – Teams perform better when everyone knows their role, purpose, and what's expected of them. Alignment beats effort – Hard work alone doesn't guarantee results; aligning people, purpose, and systems creates real progress. Regular check-ins build strong culture – Simple habits like weekly huddles and monthly reviews keep teams connected and supported. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Leadership must focus on vision, not firefighting – Great leaders work on the business, not just in it, ensuring long-term stability. Reducing burnout increases productivity – When teams feel heard and supported, engagement rises and burnout drops significantly. Systems sustain performance – Businesses don't rise to goals—they fall to the level of their systems, so structure and rhythm are essential. One action small business owners can take: According to Trent Morgan, one action small business owners can take is to hold regular team check-ins or huddles to ensure everyone is aligned on goals, clear about their roles, and supported in their work — fostering stronger communication, trust, and accountability. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: You don't rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your systems — Trent Morgan When a team is misaligned, it's not a performance issue, it's a clarity issue — Trent Morgan Alignment turns chaos into clarity and teams into purpose-driven performers — Trent Morgan  

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Dmitriy Peregudov, founder of Gift Baskets Overseas, shares his inspiring 28-year journey from sending flowers to loved ones in Russia to leading an $11M global gifting company with 120+ team members. He talks about building a business rooted in patience, perseverance, and people-first values. Dmitriy discusses how focusing on customer experience and team culture fueled long-term success. He also explains the role of SEO and AI in modern marketing and why brand trust matters more than ever. From overcoming fraud challenges to achieving a 64% Net Promoter Score, his story highlights sustainable growth and resilience. A must-listen for entrepreneurs who believe slow, steady, and thoughtful growth wins the race. Other Resources: An easy way to measure if your customers love you in 21 minutes – use the Net Promoter Score (NPS). And it's FREE. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Dmitriy Peregudov, the hardest thing in growing a small business is having the patience and perseverance to push through the early, slow stages while learning things outside your comfort zone. He explains that growth often requires focusing on areas you don't enjoy, making tough decisions, and knowing when to let go and replace yourself in certain roles. Understanding every part of the business—even the ones you're not good at—is essential, because only then can you hire the right people and build a strong foundation for long-term success. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Dmitriy Peregudov's favorite business books include Further, Faster by Bill Flynn, which provides clear frameworks for business growth, and Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh, which inspired him to build a people-first company culture. He also recommends The Five Types of Wealth by Sahil Bloom for understanding balance in life and business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Dmitriy recommends the Harvard Business Review (HBR) Podcast for case studies and expert discussions, and Lex Fridman's Podcast for deep, thought-provoking conversations that go beyond business into leadership and innovation. He also appreciates podcasts like Built to Sell Radio for real-world entrepreneurship lessons. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? He highly recommends HubSpot, calling it a game-changer for small businesses. From marketing automation to CRM and workflow management, it helped his team streamline communication, improve sales processes, and enhance customer relationships. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? According to Dmitriy Peregudov, the advice he would give himself on day one of starting out in business is simple yet powerful — "Just do it." He believes that too many entrepreneurs hesitate, overthink, or wait for the perfect moment, but real growth happens only through action. Taking the first step, learning from mistakes, and adapting along the way are far more valuable than waiting for ideal conditions that may never come. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success in business comes from patience, perseverance, and focusing on what truly matters — Dmitriy Peregudov Growth isn't always about getting bigger, it's about getting better with every challenge — Dmitriy Peregudov The best way to build a loyal customer is to fix their problem so well they never forget you — Dmitriy Peregudov  

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Petar Lackovic, founder of The Sales Institute of Australia. Petar shares his remarkable journey from sleeping on a couch to running a lean, 7-figure profit business that helps entrepreneurs master sales and pricing with confidence. He reveals how 85% of clients in his Convert Club raise prices and boost conversion rates within just weeks and months. Petar opens up about his early struggles, leadership lessons, and how simplifying sales systems transformed his business growth. Tune in to learn practical, real-world lessons from a real and down to earth entrepreneur who's worn every hat on his journey Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Petar Lackovic, the toughest part of growing a small business is getting out of your own way. Many entrepreneurs unknowingly block their own progress by being stubborn, not acting quick enough, overthinking, or avoiding new learnings needed to succeed. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness – identifying weaknesses, gaining new skills, and focusing on the "best next step." Petar believes true growth happens when business owners let go of ego, stay adaptable, and take consistent, forward-moving action. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Petar Lackovic says the business book that helped him the most in his early days is      "The E-Myth" by Michael E. Gerber, as it completely changed how he viewed entrepreneurship. The book taught him the power of creating systems and processes so a business can operate independently of its owner. It helped him shift his mindset from working in the business to working on it, allowing for sustainable growth and long-term success. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Petar Lackovic recommends learning from podcasts and resources that focus on sales mastery and business growth. He's featured on shows like Super Obvious with James Tuckerman and Inspiring Business for Good, where he shares insights on converting leads, mastering sales language, and understanding the stages of entrepreneurship. For structured learning, his Reverse Selling Method™ Cheat Sheet and his Reverse Selling Method™ Short Course is available through his Globally award winning program CONVERT Club™ and offers practical frameworks to help business owners boost conversions, increase speed of sale, raise prices confidently (charging your true worth), and build strong, repeatable sales systems. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Petar Lackovic recommends the Reverse Selling Method™ as the most powerful tool to grow a small business's revenue and cashflow. This framework helps business owners transform how they sell by shifting from chasing clients to attracting them through trust and clarity. It focuses on lowering buyer resistance, framing conversations around customer needs, being seen as the prize in the sales conversation and having customers buying from you instead of you feeling you're selling to them by creating a repeatable, scalable sales system that drives consistent results. By mastering this method, entrepreneurs can boost conversions, increase prices confidently, and build long-term customer relationships without relying on pushy sales tactics. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Petar Lackovic says the advice he'd give himself on day one of starting out in business is simple: keep moving forward. He believes success isn't about having all the answers from the start but about taking consistent steps, learning, and adapting along the way. Even when things feel uncertain or difficult, progress - no matter how small - builds momentum and clarity. His message is that everything works out if you stay focused, keep learning/outgrowing yourself, and never stop moving forward. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success in business isn't about knowing it all, it's about moving forward even when you don't know what's next — Petar Lackovic When you learn how to sell with confidence, you'll never have to discount your worth — Petar Lackovic The faster you act, the faster you learn, and speed is the secret weapon of every successful small business — Petar Lackovic  

QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Amanda Jones interviews Stephen Sakach, Founder of Zero Company and AI CMO.io, to explore how empathy and purpose can transform modern marketing. Stephen shares his groundbreaking "Bliss Business" philosophy—building love into scalable systems—and explains how emotional connection drives brand loyalty and long-term success. From integrating AI with authentic storytelling to creating marketing that truly feels human, this conversation uncovers how businesses can grow with both heart and strategy. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Build Emotional Connections: Brands that connect emotionally with customers enjoy higher loyalty and up to 300% greater lifetime value. Lead with Purpose: Defining your business's "why" gives meaning to your work and helps attract engaged employees and ideal clients. Adopt the Bliss Philosophy: Build Love Into Scalable Systems—turn random acts of kindness into structured habits within your business culture. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Use AI with Intention: Leverage AI tools to save time and enhance creativity, but ensure your message stays authentic and human-centered. Create Surprise and Delight: Small, thoughtful gestures toward customers can foster emotional bonds and brand differentiation. Empathy = Profitability: Data shows empathetic businesses not only build trust but also outperform competitors financially. One action small business owners can take: According to Stephen Sakach, one action small business owners can take is to build love into scalable systems – find small, meaningful ways to infuse empathy, care, and purpose into everyday business processes so that kindness and connection continue to thrive, even when you're not directly involved. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Marketing isn't just about selling—it's about creating emotional connections that make people feel seen and valued — Stephen Sakach Build love into scalable systems so kindness becomes part of your company's DNA, not just a random act — Stephen Sakach AI should help us become better humans, not replace what makes us human — Stephen Sakach  

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Jennifer Ann Johnson, founder of True Fashionistas, Florida's leading lifestyle resale brand. Jennifer shares her inspiring journey from running a wedding planning business to building a thriving fashion resale empire. She talks about overcoming challenges like COVID-19 and hurricanes, the power of core values, and her belief in consistency and passion as keys to success. Jennifer also discusses leadership lessons, team culture, and how resilience and innovation helped her business grow from a small store to a 13,000-square-foot powerhouse. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here.   Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice.   And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Jennifer Ann Johnson, the hardest thing in growing a small business is "staying the course." She explains that it's easy to get distracted by competitors or trends, but true growth comes from staying focused, keeping your blinders on, and competing only with yourself. Her mindset is all about perseverance — focusing on your own path and goals rather than comparing yourself to others. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Jennifer Ann Johnson's favorite business book that has helped her the most is "Begin With We" by Kyle McDowell. She loves it because it focuses on company culture and leadership, emphasizing how standing shoulder-to-shoulder with your employees—rather than above them—creates stronger teams and a more successful business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Jennifer Ann Johnson recommends exploring The Confident Entrepreneur, her own podcast focused on leadership, growth, and confidence for business owners. She also provides valuable free tools and resources on her website to help entrepreneurs thrive. Beyond her work, she suggests tuning into other insightful shows like The Small Business Growth Podcast, The How of Business, and Masters of Scale by Reid Hoffman — all offering practical lessons on scaling, marketing, and managing small businesses effectively. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Jennifer Ann Johnson recommends using The Confident Entrepreneur Podcast and her online resources as powerful tools for small business growth. Through her podcast, she shares real-world stories, leadership lessons, and actionable strategies on marketing, consistency, and scaling a business. Her website also offers free resources, coaching, and blogs that help entrepreneurs strengthen their mindset, improve operations, and build confidence while avoiding common business pitfalls. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Jennifer Ann Johnson's advice to herself on day one of starting out in business would be simple yet powerful — "You can do hard things." She believes entrepreneurship is full of challenges, but success comes from trusting your abilities, facing obstacles head-on, and staying resilient no matter how tough things get. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success isn't about reaching a destination, it's about loving what you do and finding joy in the journey — Jennifer Ann Johnson The moment you stop learning is the moment you stop growing as a leader and as a business owner — Jennifer Ann Johnson Consistency, core values, and courage are the foundation of every thriving business — Jennifer Ann Johnson  

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Dennis Underwood, founder of Cyber Crucible, a cybersecurity software company transforming how businesses manage digital risk. Dennis shares his journey from government contracting to building a global SaaS powerhouse generating $1.2 million in recurring revenue with a lean 10-person team. He discusses the challenges of bootstrapping, the power of automation, and his mission to reshape cybersecurity through innovation and AI. Packed with lessons on leadership, resilience, and sustainable growth, this episode offers a masterclass in scaling a tech business the smart way. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Dennis Underwood, the hardest thing in growing a small business is letting go of someone who's doing a good job but no longer fits the company's evolving needs. He explains that as a product company grows and its focus shifts, even capable and loyal team members might not align with new directions. Making those tough decisions—especially without a "services bench" to reassign people—is one of the most challenging yet necessary parts of leadership and sustainable growth. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Dennis Underwood's favorite business book that has helped him the most is Ready, Fire, Aim. He says it changed his perspective on perfectionism and speed in business. Early on, he focused too much on building the perfect product before going to market—a mindset that worked in government projects but not in fast-moving business environments. The book taught him that customers don't expect perfection; they value progress and adaptability. This lesson helped him launch faster, learn from feedback, and grow Cyber Crucible more effectively. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? According to Dennis Underwood, a great way to grow a small business is by constantly learning from practical, real-world insights. He recommends checking out resources like Y Combinator's startup library, which offers valuable articles for founders, and following industry experts on LinkedIn—especially those who challenge conventional thinking and share unfiltered lessons from experience. For podcasts, he values shows like Grow A Small Business, The How of Business, and Masters of Scale, which feature actionable strategies, founder stories, and mindset shifts for entrepreneurs. These platforms, along with consistent self-education and reflection, help business owners stay grounded, adaptable, and ahead of the curve. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Dennis Underwood recommends using tools that enhance automation, efficiency, and clarity in business operations. He highlights Google Gemini as a powerful AI resource for generating content, refining documentation, and improving communication. By uploading company materials and analyzing AI feedback, he identifies areas needing clearer messaging. For small businesses, he believes leveraging such intelligent tools helps streamline processes, boost productivity, and strengthen strategic growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Dennis Underwood's advice to his younger self on day one of starting out in business would be to have the courage to move faster and fully commit to his vision. He admits he stayed too long in the comfort of government contracting because it felt secure, even though his goals were in commercial software. He says he should have moved out of Washington, D.C. earlier, left behind the "golden handcuffs" of steady contracts, and focused completely on building his product company. His biggest lesson—don't let familiarity or fear delay your leap into the business you truly want to build. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success in cybersecurity isn't about perfection—it's about empowering people to protect themselves — Dennis Underwood Bootstrapping teaches you discipline—the kind investors can't buy and competitors can't copy — Dennis Underwood You can do everything right and still fail; what matters is how quickly you adapt afterward — Dennis Underwood  

QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse!   Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week.   Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends!   In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Rob Cameron interviews Nic McGrue, founder of Polymath Legal, reveals how he helps real estate investors and business owners legally raise capital while protecting their interests under U.S. securities laws. He shares insights on common mistakes to avoid, the importance of proper legal documentation, and how strategic compliance can unlock growth opportunities. Nic also highlights inspiring success stories, including turning around a family-owned winery and helping a client expand from 30 single-family homes to over 800 multifamily units. This episode is packed with practical, real-world advice for anyone serious about raising funds the right way and building lasting generational wealth. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Organize your finances early – Clean, accurate financials make you more credible and attractive to investors.   Start networking before you need capital – Build relationships and trust so investors are ready when opportunities arise.   Understand securities laws – Know the legal side of raising funds to avoid costly compliance mistakes. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Assemble a strong support team – Partner with skilled legal, financial, and underwriting professionals for smoother deals.   Disclose risks honestly – Transparent communication builds investor confidence and protects you legally. Plan for growth, not just funding – Focus on long-term strategy, scalability, and creating generational wealth through smart investments. One action small business owners can take: According to Nic McGrue, one action small business owners can take is to get their financials in order — by maintaining clean, accurate records and proper documentation, they can build investor confidence and be fully prepared when it's time to raise capital. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Raising capital legally isn't just smart business — it's the foundation for lasting success – Nic McGrue Compliance isn't a burden; it's your shield against future problems – Nic McGrue Transparency with investors builds trust faster than any sales pitch ever could – Nic McGrue  

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Paige Wiese, founder of Tree Ring Digital, shares her journey from freelancing after the GFC to building a 16-person digital marketing team. She reveals how the company doubled during COVID, overcame recent dips, and stayed resilient through challenges. Paige explains the importance of prioritization, transparency, and smart financial management in scaling a business. She highlights why being industry-agnostic has given Tree Ring Digital a competitive edge. Her story is a blend of perseverance, adaptability, and strategic growth every small business owner can learn from. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Paige Wiese said the hardest thing in growing a small business is having the confidence and resilience to stick with it through the ups and downs. She emphasized that challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but staying committed and pushing forward makes all the difference. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Paige Wiese shared that one of her favorite business books is "Do Less", which helped her understand the importance of not saying yes to everything and focusing on what truly matters by getting unnecessary tasks off her plate. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Paige Wiese emphasizes learning through mentors, self-teaching, and real conversations over traditional study. She's been featured on Mission Matters (digital asset control), Building the Business (slowing down to speed up growth), and Grow My Accounting Practice (scaling with marketing). Paige highlights the value of extracting small, actionable insights from books, podcasts, and networking. She also recommends shows like Masters of Scale for growth strategies and Manager Tools for leadership and team development. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Paige Wiese recommends using practical tools and systems to support business growth, starting with digital asset management to secure domains, websites, and brand accounts. She highlights the value of QuickBooks for financial tracking and project management tools like Asana or Trello to streamline workflows. To grow smarter, she suggests leveraging Google Analytics and Search Console for data-driven decisions, while also emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, mentorship, and checklists to stay resilient and adaptable. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Paige Wiese said the advice she would give herself on day one of starting out is: "You can do it. It's going to come with some challenges, but you've got this." Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Prioritization is the key to delivering real value, not just checking off tasks – Paige Wiese Know your numbers—without metrics, you can't measure true growth – Paige Wiese Success is producing quality work while building long-term relationships – Paige Wiese