The Accidental Business Owner - For Conscientious Owner Managers looking to Grow | Scale | Exit.

Unlock the real story behind why so many founders accidentally build businesses that end up consuming their lives in “Built By Mistake, Scaled By Design”, the latest episode of the Accidental Business Owner Podcast featuring Jay Allen, founder of My True North.Jay pulls back the curtain on a pattern he’s seen thousands of times: businesses born from a simple idea or lifestyle choice that slowly morph into beasts demanding every ounce of time, energy, and attention. Instead of “working to live,” owners find themselves “living to work”—trapped by the very thing they created.In this episode, we dive into how My True North is flipping that script. Jay breaks down the insights gained from their extensive Scale and Exit Audits, drawn from data across countless businesses. You’ll hear the most common mistakes companies make, why so many leaders repeat them, and—more importantly—how to avoid falling into those traps. Jay outlines the practical steps, proven strategies, and mindset shifts that help business owners reclaim their purpose, redesign their operations, and build companies that scale by intention, not accident.If you’re ready to build a business that supports the life you want—not the other way around—this conversation is a must-listen.Please visit my website to get more information: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ ✨ Check out the ADDAZERO Free Scaleup audit report here: http://www.addazero.co.uk/free-scale-audit🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1 ⭐⭐⭐Audio Podcast is currently on your favourite platforms:Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/6DUyVgA3TjsQmyjgP4CInG?si=1ac052c8ef7a42df ApplePodcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/addazero-business-challenge/id1808888157Podbean:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/a8c28-1c5065/%23ADDAZERO-Business-Challenge-Podcast🔗 Stay Connected With Me.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyTrueNORTHUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytruenorthuk/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayallen-mytruenorth/ Website: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ 📩 For business inquiries: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpGufGO3aw4 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbrPyLEOTy0 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yVhb7NGsJk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvt61uStay0 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpLU-U4IFYY ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZ08DepmzNg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqSsx4d5v_Y ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5QImmOB0n4 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8A1g2NSwrk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCq-NVn-ZZU =================================✅ About My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company.Welcome to My TrueNORTH – The Ethical Coaching Company! I’m Jay Allen, a 2x Global Entrepreneur Award winner and former British Army medic turned business scale mentor. After leading change at the board level and scaling & exiting multiple businesses, I now help business owners grow sustainably and ethically. Through My TrueNORTH, I coach purpose-driven entrepreneurs to scale with integrity and clarity. I also founded the #ADDAZERO Business Challenge with a bold goal: to help 1,000,000 business owners add a zero to their income. Join me for real, ethical growth strategies that make a lasting impact.For Business inquiries, please use the contact information below:📩 Email: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz🔔 Ready to scale ethically and sustainably? Subscribe for ethical business mentoring, expert business coaching, growth strategies, and the tools to grow your business!https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1#AccidentalBusinessOwner #BuiltByMistakeScaledByDesign #MyTrueNorth #JayAllen #BusinessGrowth #BusinessStrategy #ScaleAndExit #EntrepreneurLife #WorkLifeBalance #BusinessMistakes

Is your leadership style secretly sabotaging your business? In this episode of The Accidental Business Owner Podcast, Jay Allen—award-winning entrepreneur and founder of My TrueNORTH—reveals why the old-school “command and control” approach is costing you talent, profits, and peace of mind.Discover how micromanagement destroys morale, slows growth, and drives your best people out the door. Jay shares eye-opening research from a major U.S. university study that analysed what really keeps employees loyal. Spoiler alert: nine retention drivers outrank salary—and most businesses ignore them completely.If you want a team that performs better, stays longer, and actually enjoys coming to work, this episode is your roadmap. Expect practical, actionable strategies on:✅ Building trust and autonomy✅ Creating a culture that attracts top talent✅ Leadership habits that boost engagement✅ The hidden motivators that transform workplacesPerfect for business owners, managers, and leaders ready to ditch outdated habits and build a stronger, more human business.Learn the 9 employee retention drivers that matter more than moneyUnderstand why micromanagement kills growthGet real-world leadership tips you can implement today✅ Free Scale-Up Audit Report: www.mytruenorth.club/bsu✅ Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLk4TDfkWlBHxthciMBWGoe25LiNuGWtQN&si=0TB2ViTCqDDVcMVl✅ Listen on Your Favourite Platform:SpotifyApple PodcastsPodbeanLinkedIn: Jay AllenWebsite: MyTrueNORTH.bizEmail: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Bizmicromanagement, employee retention strategies, modern leadership, business growth tips, company culture, leadership development, team engagement, small business leadership, entrepreneur tips, ethical business coaching

In this powerful new episode of the Accidental Business Owner Podcast, host Jay Allen brings on Dougal Paver — a long-standing industry expert who knows the high stakes of major development, stakeholder engagement and transformation projects. Dougal serves as Managing Director of Merrion Strategy, a strategic communications and stakeholder engagement consultancy specializing in the built environment and major regeneration schemes. What really makes this episode stand out is the focus on one specific real-world project: the refurbishment of the St James Business Centre in Warrington — an 80,000 sq ft multi-user business centre undergoing a ~£5 million transformation. If you’re a business owner, property professional, operations leader, or just someone interested in how communication and stakeholder alignment drive big projects, this episode is for you.Meet the guest: Dougal PaverDougal has more than 25 years of experience in marketing, public relations and stakeholder engagement within the built environment. He has advised major developers, regeneration agencies and strategic land-owners across the UK. In his current role at Merrion Strategy, he continues to direct complex projects, combining his expertise in communications with the rigour of development, policy, property and regeneration. One of his recent clients noted his strong network, deep knowledge of public affairs and capacity to operate at scale. When hearing him speak, you’ll benefit from someone who isn’t just an academic or consultant in isolation — he’s been in the trenches of real projects, real tenants, real contractors.Key business themes exploredHere are some of the major themes you’ll hear during the interview:How often do we treat communication as “nice to have” rather than “must-have”? Dougal reframes communication as core business infrastructure — especially when you are managing change.Examples from the discussion:Advance warnings, tenant briefings, regular updates.Aligning builders/contractors with occupier needs and building management.Clear escalation paths: who to call if something goes wrong.The project isn’t just “tenant” vs “contractor”. Dougal walks us through mapping all parties: building management, facilities services, tenants, contractors, local authority/regeneration partner, car-parking, IT/internet services, cycling facilities, reception, café/amenities etc.Each group has distinct needs — the communications strategy must reflect that.This is where the rubber meets the road: how to minimise downtime, maintain tenant satisfaction, deliver construction works. Key issues:Phasing of works to avoid large scale interruptionsAdvance notice + transparency around noise, access changes, services impactBuffering tenants by offering “what’s in it for them” (improved facilities, café, breakout, technology hub)In the case of St James, the building was re-branded (new name) and positioned as a more modern, flexible hub to meet evolving occupier demands. Dougal discusses how building perception matters: not just the steel and concrete, but how people feel about the environment, the service, the communication culture.At the heart: communication builds trust. When tenants feel heard and informed, they are more tolerant of disruption and more likely to stay long-term. Dougal emphasises accountability: who says what, when, how—and making sure follow-through happens.1. Communication as the operational backbone2. Stakeholder mapping & segmentation3. Managing “live” disruption in a multi-user property4. Brand and perception management5. Business owner takeaways: trust, transparency and accountabilityKeywords for SEO: Accidental Business Owner Podcast, Episode 104, Jay Allen, Dougal Paver, Merrion Strategy, St James Business Centre Warrington, business communication, stakeholder engagement, refurbishment project management, multi-tenant property management, business owner insights.

Welcome to Episode 102 of The Accidental Business Owner Podcast, hosted by Jay Allen from My TrueNORTH. This week, Jay is joined by Amanda Daniels-Allen, founder of Koogar, for a deep dive into Money Archetypes—the subconscious patterns that influence how you earn, spend, invest, and value money in your business.Ever wondered why you:❓ Struggle with pricing confidence?❓ Avoid certain financial decisions?❓ Repeat the same money habits?This conversation will change the way you think about money. Amanda explains:✅ What Money Archetypes are and why they matter✅ How your upbringing shapes your financial behaviour✅ Why business owners unknowingly sabotage success✅ How to align pricing and offers with your core values✅ Practical steps to shift your money mindset todayWhether you’re starting, scaling, or pivoting, understanding your Money Archetype can unlock growth, confidence, and financial resilience.Amanda Daniels-Allen is the founder of Koogar, specialising in marketing strategy, brand alignment, and human-centred business development. She helps business owners create marketing that feels authentic, grounded, and effective.👉 Click here to Learn more about Koogar👉 Click here to learn more about My TrueNORTH👉 Subscribe for weekly episodes: YouTubeMoney Archetypes, Money Mindset, Amanda Daniels-Allen, Koogar, Jay Allen, My TrueNORTH, Pricing Confidence, Business Growth, Entrepreneur Mindset, Small Business Advice, Marketing Strategy, Financial Resilience, Business CoachingKeywords / SEO Tags:Money Archetypes, Amanda Daniels Allen, Koogar, Jay Allen, My True North, The Accidental Business Owner Podcast, Money Mindset, Business Growth, Entrepreneur Mindset, Pricing Confidence, Business Coaching, Small Business Advice, Marketing Strategy, Personal Development for Business Owners.

The Accidental Business Owner PodcastHosted by Jay Allen | Founder of My True North – The UK’s Leading Ethical Coaching CompanyEpisode Title: The Bottleneck Effect – Why You’re Still the ProblemWelcome back to The Accidental Business Owner Podcast, where we help purpose-driven entrepreneurs scale sustainably—without losing their sanity.In this episode, Jay Allen gets uncomfortably honest about the real reason your business isn’t growing the way you want it to: you.Your decisions.Your habits.Your need to control everything.If you’ve ever felt like:Your business can’t run without you,You’re constantly firefighting,Or growth has plateaued no matter how hard you push...Then this episode is going to hit home.Jay breaks down:✅ The hidden ways YOU create bottlenecks in your business✅ Why working harder is the least effective strategy✅ How to shift from being the operator to becoming the owner✅ Practical systems and mindset shifts to scale without burnoutThis isn’t about guilt or blame—it’s about ownership. And taking back control in a way that frees you and your business to grow.Please visit my website to get more information: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ ✨ Check out the our 2 free Business Assessment Tools: https://www.mytruenorth.biz/work-with-me/🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/⭐⭐⭐⭐Audio Podcast is currently on your favourite platformsSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/6DUyVgA3TjsQmyjgP4CInG?si=1ac052c8ef7a42df ApplePodcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/addazero-business-challenge/id1808888157Podbean: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/a8c28-1c5065/%23ADDAZERO-Business-Challenge-Podcast🔗 Stay ConnectedFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyTrueNORTHUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytruenorthuk/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayallen-mytruenorth/ Website: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ 📩 For business inquiries: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz =================================✅ About My True North – The Ethical Coaching CompanyI’m Jay Allen—ex-Army medic, 2x Global Entrepreneur Award winner, TEDx speaker, and founder of My True North. After scaling and exiting multiple businesses, I now help entrepreneurs grow with clarity, confidence, and conscience.Through our award-winning #ADDAZERO methodology and The Freedom Technique, we support business owners to scale ethically and sustainably—without burnout or compromise.Join the movement. Let’s turn accidental success into intentional, lasting impact.

In this episode of The Accidental Business Owner Podcast by My True North, host Jay Allen speaks with legendary entrepreneur Simon Woodroffe OBE, the visionary behind YO! Sushi.👉 Discover how Simon went from borrowing £150,000 to build his dream, to selling YO! Sushi for a staggering £494 million. He shares the highs, lows, and unfiltered truths about scaling a brand, taking risks, and knowing when to sell.If you’ve ever wondered how to grow a business from idea to multi-million-pound exit, this candid interview will inspire, educate, and challenge your perspective on entrepreneurship.📌 Episode Highlights:How Simon turned a £150K loan into one of the UK’s most iconic brandsThe bold decisions that grew YO! Sushi into a global phenomenonWhy and how Simon chose to sell for £494MLessons every entrepreneur can take from his extraordinary journey🔔 Don’t forget to Subscribe and turn on Notifications so you never miss an episode of The Accidental Business Owner Podcast.Please visit my website to get more information: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ #SimonWoodroffe #YOSushi #YO!Sushi #JayAllen #MyTrueNorth #TheAccidentalBusinessOwnerPodcast #Entrepreneurpodcast #BusinesspodcastUK #Startupstory #Businessexitstrategy #Howtogrowabusiness #Scalingabusiness #Startuptoexit #£494Mbusinessexit #Howtosellabusiness #Entrepreneursuccessstory #Restaurantbusinesssuccess #Businessgrowthpodcast #Startupfounderinterview #Millionaireentrepreneurstory✨ Check out the ADDAZERO Free Scaleup audit report here: http://www.addazero.co.uk/free-scale-audit🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1 ⭐⭐⭐Audio Podcast is currently on your favourite platforms:Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/6DUyVgA3TjsQmyjgP4CInG?si=1ac052c8ef7a42df ApplePodcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/addazero-business-challenge/id1808888157Podbean:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/a8c28-1c5065/%23ADDAZERO-Business-Challenge-Podcast🔗 Stay Connected With Me.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyTrueNORTHUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytruenorthuk/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayallen-mytruenorth/ Website: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ 📩 For business inquiries: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpGufGO3aw4 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbrPyLEOTy0 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yVhb7NGsJk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvt61uStay0 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpLU-U4IFYY ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZ08DepmzNg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqSsx4d5v_Y ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5QImmOB0n4 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8A1g2NSwrk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCq-NVn-ZZU =================================✅ About My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company.Welcome to My TrueNORTH – The Ethical Coaching Company! I’m Jay Allen, a 2x Global Entrepreneur Award winner and former British Army medic turned business scale mentor. After leading change at the board level and scaling & exiting multiple businesses, I now help business owners grow sustainably and ethically. Through My TrueNORTH, I coach purpose-driven entrepreneurs to scale with integrity and clarity. I also founded the #ADDAZERO Business Challenge with a bold goal: to help 1,000,000 business owners add a zero to their income. Join me for real, ethical growth strategies that make a lasting impact.For Business inquiries, please use the contact information below:📩 Email: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz🔔 Ready to scale ethically and sustainably? Subscribe for ethical business mentoring, expert business coaching, growth strategies, and the tools to grow your business!https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1

🎙️ The Accidental Business Owner Podcast | Episode Release: 22nd October @ 12PMIn this powerful episode of The Accidental Business Owner Podcast by My True North, host Jay Allen sits down with Stuart Mason to unpack the emotional and practical story behind closing a business after 20 years.👉 Stuart shares why he made the difficult decision to bury his business on its 20th birthday, the lessons he learned along the way, and the hard truths every entrepreneur should hear about resilience, failure, and starting again.Whether you’re a business owner, startup founder, or entrepreneur navigating tough times, this interview is packed with real-world insights, raw honesty, and actionable advice to help you avoid the same mistakes.📌 Episode Highlights:Why Stuart decided to close his business after 20 yearsThe emotional impact of walking away from something you’ve builtThe lessons every accidental business owner should knowHow to rebuild confidence and find new direction in business Don’t miss this release — hit Subscribe and turn on Notifications so you’re the first to watch when it goes live on 22nd October at 12pm.#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #AccidentalBusinessOwner #JayAllen #MyTrueNorth #StuartMason #BusinessFailure #entrepreneurjourney Please visit my website to get more information: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ ✨ Check out the ADDAZERO Free Scaleup audit report here: http://www.addazero.co.uk/free-scale-audit🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1 ⭐⭐⭐Audio Podcast is currently on your favourite platforms:Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/6DUyVgA3TjsQmyjgP4CInG?si=1ac052c8ef7a42df ApplePodcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/addazero-business-challenge/id1808888157Podbean:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/a8c28-1c5065/%23ADDAZERO-Business-Challenge-Podcast🔗 Stay Connected With Me.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyTrueNORTHUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytruenorthuk/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayallen-mytruenorth/ Website: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ 📩 For business inquiries: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpGufGO3aw4 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbrPyLEOTy0 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yVhb7NGsJk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvt61uStay0 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpLU-U4IFYY ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZ08DepmzNg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqSsx4d5v_Y ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5QImmOB0n4 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8A1g2NSwrk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCq-NVn-ZZU =================================✅ About My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company.Welcome to My TrueNORTH – The Ethical Coaching Company! I’m Jay Allen, a 2x Global Entrepreneur Award winner and former British Army medic turned business scale mentor. After leading change at the board level and scaling & exiting multiple businesses, I now help business owners grow sustainably and ethically. Through My TrueNORTH, I coach purpose-driven entrepreneurs to scale with integrity and clarity. I also founded the #ADDAZERO Business Challenge with a bold goal: to help 1,000,000 business owners add a zero to their income. Join me for real, ethical growth strategies that make a lasting impact.For Business inquiries, please use the contact information below:📩 Email: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz🔔 Ready to scale ethically and sustainably? Subscribe for ethical business mentoring, expert business coaching, growth strategies, and the tools to grow your business!https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1 =================================

Welcome to the final episode of season two of the #Add A Zero Podcast! In this deeply personal and insightful episode, host Jay Allen reflects on a decade of supporting nearly 1,000 businesses through his company, My True North. Jay shares why, after years of striving to serve as many business owners as possible, he’s making a bold shift—now saying “no” to 95% of potential clients.He takes us back to the genesis of My True North, the evolution of its ethical mission, and the lessons learned from both triumphs and challenges along the way. Jay reveals the crucial data-driven insights behind this strategic pivot and explains why true transformation requires more than just a willingness to grow—it demands readiness to embrace real, sometimes uncomfortable change.If you’re a business owner wondering what it truly takes to move from feeling trapped in your business to becoming a strategic CEO, or if you’re curious about why working with fewer, more committed clients can create bigger impact, this episode is for you. Join us as we close one chapter and set the stage for new, transformational stories in the next season.Please visit my website to get more information: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ ✨ Check out the ADDAZERO Free Scaleup audit report here: http://www.addazero.co.uk/free-scale-audit🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1 ⭐⭐⭐Audio Podcast is currently on your favourite platforms:Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/6DUyVgA3TjsQmyjgP4CInG?si=1ac052c8ef7a42df ApplePodcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/addazero-business-challenge/id1808888157Podbean:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/a8c28-1c5065/%23ADDAZERO-Business-Challenge-Podcast🔗 Stay Connected With Me.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyTrueNORTHUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytruenorthuk/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayallen-mytruenorth/ Website: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ 📩 For business inquiries: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz =============================🎬Suggested videos for you:▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpGufGO3aw4 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbrPyLEOTy0 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yVhb7NGsJk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvt61uStay0 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpLU-U4IFYY ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZ08DepmzNg ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqSsx4d5v_Y ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5QImmOB0n4 ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8A1g2NSwrk ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCq-NVn-ZZU =================================✅ About My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company.Welcome to My TrueNORTH – The Ethical Coaching Company! I’m Jay Allen, a 2x Global Entrepreneur Award winner and former British Army medic turned business scale mentor. After leading change at the board level and scaling & exiting multiple businesses, I now help business owners grow sustainably and ethically. Through My TrueNORTH, I coach purpose-driven entrepreneurs to scale with integrity and clarity. I also founded the #ADDAZERO Business Challenge with a bold goal: to help 1,000,000 business owners add a zero to their income. Join me for real, ethical growth strategies that make a lasting impact.For Business inquiries, please use the contact information below:📩 Email: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz🔔 Ready to scale ethically and sustainably? Subscribe for ethical business mentoring, expert business coaching, growth strategies, and the tools to grow your business!https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1

Are you an accidental business owner who feels trapped in your own company—pulled into daily operations with no way out? In this episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen dives deep into the transformative steps you need to break free from being the bottleneck in your business and finally become the strategic CEO your company needs.Jay introduces our brand-new 12-Week Transformation Program, tailored to help business owners transition from operator to empowered leader. Learn how to reclaim your freedom, delegate effectively, and build a team that runs the business—whether you’re present or not.In this episode, you’ll discover:The three-phase “Business Freedom Technique” that liberates overwhelmed ownersHow to assess the current reliance on you and take action to shift itStrategies for delegating big projects without fear of losing controlWhy organizational charts for the future are a game-changer for growth and team loyaltyThe CEO mindset shift: From micromanaging to coaching and mentoring your peopleThe power of masterminds and collaborative leadership to future-proof your companyCritical mistakes that reduce business value and how to avoid themJay shares real client stories and actionable tips on succession planning, creating true career paths for your team, and building a legacy rather than just leaving one. Whether you’re planning to scale or ultimately exit your business, these insights are essential for sustainable growth.Download your FREE Freedom Assessment (link in Show Notes) to discover just how “trapped” you are—and start your journey to true business freedom today!🚀 Want to learn more? Ready to add a zero? Contact us using the link below for a no-pressure chat.#BusinessGrowth #ScaleYourBusiness #Leadership #SmallBusiness #BusinessFreedom #Entrepreneurship #CEO #AddAZeroPodcast #MyTrueNorth #BusinessAdviceListen & Subscribe:Never miss an episode! Hit the subscribe button and share this with your business network.About #Add A Zero Podcast:Presented by Jay Allen, in partnership with My True North—the UK’s leading ethical coaching company. We help ethical business owners achieve significant, sustainable growth and a legacy that lasts.Please visit my website to get more information: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ ✨ Check out the ADDAZERO Free Scaleup audit report here: http://www.addazero.co.uk/free-scale-audit🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Me.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyTrueNORTHUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytruenorthuk/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayallen-mytruenorth/ Website: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ 📩 For business inquiries: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz ✅ About My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company.Welcome to My TrueNORTH – The Ethical Coaching Company! I’m Jay Allen, a 2x Global Entrepreneur Award winner and former British Army medic turned business scale mentor. After leading change at the board level and scaling & exiting multiple businesses, I now help business owners grow sustainably and ethically. Through My TrueNORTH, I coach purpose-driven entrepreneurs to scale with integrity and clarity. I also founded the #ADDAZERO Business Challenge with a bold goal: to help 1,000,000 business owners add a zero to their income. Join me for real, ethical growth strategies that make a lasting impact.For Business inquiries, please use the contact information below:📩 Email: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz🔔 Ready to scale ethically and sustainably? Subscribe for ethical business mentoring, expert business coaching, growth strategies, and the tools to grow your business!https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1

As business owners, one of the most consistent pieces of advice we hear is to “delegate.” We’re told, directly or indirectly, that, to grow beyond being a one-person show, we need to let go of tasks—especially the low-value ones—and hand them off so we can focus on higher-level work. Yet, in this episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, Jay Allen shares hard-won truths and detailed case studies that reveal why delegation, as commonly practiced, often fails, and what must change to truly scale a business.This insightful episode provides both practical and philosophical guidance for business owners who aspire not just to grow their operations, but to make their businesses sustainable and valuable—transforming what might feel like a one-person bottleneck into a legacy enterprise. Let’s break down the episode in detail.The Common Delegation Myth—and Its PitfallsAt the onset, Jay acknowledges the prevailing wisdom: delegation is supposed to free up business owners to move from working in their business to working on it. Give those “£10 tasks”—the routine, repetitive jobs—to others so you can pursue the big-ticket opportunities that bring in thousands or tens of thousands of pounds. That’s the theory, and it does have merit. But in practice, “most people do it badly, do it wrong,” he observes.Owners frequently:Hand off the wrong tasks to the wrong peopleFail to provide the necessary structure and supportEnd up with delegated work boomeranging back onto their platesBecome convinced it’s easier just to do it themselvesThe result of failed delegation isn’t just inefficiency or annoyance—it’s a business where everything revolves around the owner. If they aren’t there, decisions stall and progress halts. The owner is not just a leader; they’re a bottleneck, stifling growth and jeopardizing sustainability.The Cost of Owner DependencyIn both cases, the lesson is stark: a business that depends on its owner for every key decision, relationship, or permission is fragile and effectively “unsellable.” As Jay stresses, no buyer wants to purchase a business whose assets, processes, or relationships are inextricably tied to the seller’s personal efforts and brainpower.This isn’t just about holidays or sick leave: it’s about creating a business that could thrive—or at least function—without you “at a moment’s notice.” If that’s not the case, the business can crumble rapidly, as the profit model and operations are not sustainable past the owner’s presence.Episode 96 of the #Add A Zero Podcast lays down a challenge for every business owner. It's time to move beyond the myth of “just delegate more.” Instead, true value, resilience, and scale come from embedding systems, structures, accountability, and succession at every level.A real business is not an extension of its founder but a living, growing organism, able to withstand the test of time, adversity, and—even more importantly—absence. If your business depends solely on you, you have an urgent call to action.Listen for the powerful stories, reflect on your own practice, and if you’re ready, take meaningful steps to build legacy, not just income.Thank you for being part of the #Add A Zero community. If you found this review insightful, don't forget to subscribe, share your reflections, and connect for further support. Your business—and legacy—are worth it.

Welcome to the #Add A Zero Podcast Episode 95, where hosts Jay Allen and MC dive deep into the often-hidden reality behind business success. If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or leader seeking sustainable growth without sacrificing your personal life, this episode is a must-listen!🔑 Episode Highlights:Why many high-achieving business owners feel more trapped than ever before, despite outward successThe “Five-Star Prison” phenomenon—how your thriving business can become your biggest limitationRelatable client stories: Going from solo operation to a bustling team, yet missing out on family momentsJay Allen’s raw personal journey: Building, nearly losing, and ultimately exiting a multi-seven figure businessPractical solutions: How to identify if you’re trapped and Jay’s proven techniques to break free and reclaim your freedomExclusive business freedom assessment & audit tool—find out how “trapped” you really areThe Accidental Business OwnerAre you an “accidental business owner”? Jay explains this is a common thread among his clients—people who didn’t necessarily plan to build an empire, but became so good at what they do that demand skyrocketed. In response, they take on help, expand, and before long are running a complex organization.But this growth, if unmanaged, leads to a scenario where business owners become central to everything—nothing works without them, and stepping away feels impossible. Your business, designed for freedom and impact, starts to feel like a padded cell.Jay introduces the concept of the “five-star prison”: a business that looks great on the outside—amazing reviews, healthy revenues, a happy team—but quietly traps its owner inside. Family holidays, personal time, even basic self-care get sacrificed on the altar of keeping the business afloat.Jay shares how he fell into this trap himself: After leaving a corporate career to buy a micro-business in 2005, he grew aggressively, but the stress and personal toll mounted. Major industry changes (like Woolworths’ collapse) put everything at risk, and even after a remarkable turnaround, Jay realized the emotional cost was too high. He exited the business—then committed his life to helping others avoid the same fate.This episode is a wake-up call for entrepreneurs: If your business requires you to be present 24/7, constantly “on,” and always available, it may be thriving in numbers—but failing in purpose. Jay and MC discuss how easy it is to lose sight of the original motivation behind your business when scaling gets tough.The loss of connection with family, friends, and self is real. Jay describes the deep regret that can come when a business owner realizes they were “absent” from the most important moments of their family’s lives, despite financial success.Frustrated by how often he saw this pattern, Jay developed a straightforward audit: the Business Freedom Assessment, offered free in the show notes. This tool helps business owners quickly pinpoint how “trapped” they’ve become—and offers practical steps to change course. If you’re missing out on life, working longer hours without increased rewards, or have built a team that relies entirely on you, it’s time for a change.Jay’s mission is clear: No business owner should ever have to choose between business success and personal happiness. The methods and resources shared on #Add A Zero can help you reclaim your time, delegate with confidence, and design a business that works for you—not the other way around.#AddAZero #BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurFreedom #ExitPlanning #BusinessCoaching #SustainableSuccess #MyTrueNorth #JayAllen #WorkLifeBalance #BusinessPodcast

Keywords: business reinvention, business rebuilding, small business growth, entrepreneurial mindset, scale and exit mentorship, business coaching, ethical business, business reset, niche business coaching, Add a Zero methodology, My True NorthIn “Why I’m Blowing Up My Business (And Why You Might Need to Do the Same),” Jay Allen lays bare the sometimes uncomfortable truths that all growth-focused business owners must face:What happens when your business quietly drifts from its purpose due to relentless pressures and market “sameness”?Why even successful businesses can become victims of their own growth, morphing into just another generic service providerHow to spot the subtle ways your company’s “north star” has wavered – and what to do about it before you slide into burnout, irrelevance, or price-driven competitionJay kicks off by sharing heartfelt reflections from My True North’s 10th birthday celebration, complete with staff, suppliers, achievements, and gratitude for being among the rare 30% of small businesses still thriving after a full decade.But beneath the celebration, Jay faced a stark realization: Over 10 years, My True North had gradually shifted from a specialist “scale and exit” mentorship service into a more mainstream business coaching offering – the exact thing he’d sworn never to do.In chasing wider appeal and relentless delivery to clients, his own business had become vulnerable to “the sea of sameness” – that dangerous place where you blend in, comparison shopping kicks in, and price wars drive you toward burnout and mediocrity.Jay didn’t just spot the problem; he attacked it head-on. Instead of falling further adrift, he ran a brutal, honest audit of My True North using his own Add a Zero methodology – treating himself as a customer, hunting for every flaw and missed opportunity.The result? Painful truths. Despite a powerful brand and hundreds of client wins, My True North wasn’t applying its own advice consistently. The urgent, customer-centric focus left core processes, innovation, and differentiation to languish in the background. Jay realized: To serve at the next level, he had to put his own “MTN 1.0” business model to bed – despite its financial success.This isn’t business as usual. Jay is archiving top-selling programs and relaunching My True North with a single, signature offer – targeted exclusively at “accidental business owners.” These are individuals who excel at what they do, built teams around their brilliance, and suddenly find themselves overworked, overwhelmed, and wondering if success is meant to be so draining.In place of complexity and generalism, Jay introduces a simple, three-step framework within a focused 12-week program:Moving business owners from trapped, hands-on operators to true CEOsApplying the proven Add a Zero methodology to create scale, purpose, freedom, and sustainable impactProviding clarity, accountability, and direct transformation – not just more information or generic adviceThis laser-sharp niche is the antidote to comparison-driven race-to-the-bottom competition. It’s a call for every conscientious leader to reevaluate, differentiate, and build a business that stands for something more.For business owners and entrepreneurs: Jay’s story is your reality check. Whether you’ve hit your own growth ceiling, lost sight of your unique value, or feel overwhelmed by trying to “do it all,” you’ll get a roadmap for reclaiming control.For coaches and consultants: Learn how to retain your edge, compete with integrity, and niche down – even if it means letting go of profitable offers.For conscious leaders: Get inspired by My True North’s mission-driven approach: scaling ethically, empowering teams, eradicating unemployment, and leaving a legacy.Don’t miss Jay’s practical steps for running your own “secret shopper” audit, differentiating from the crowd, and choosing courage over comfort.

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, brought to you by My True North – the UK’s leading ethical business consultancy! In Episode 93, hosts MC and Jay Allen (he/him) dive deep into the game of business, breaking down the seven magical numbers every business owner must understand and influence to create remarkable, sustainable growth.Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a growing founder, this episode is packed with actionable insights and profound strategies straight from the minds of those who’ve truly mastered the business game. You’ll discover how high-performing business leaders play by a very different set of rules – and why adopting these principles could revolutionize your results.🎧 What’s Inside This EpisodeWhy Business is a GameJay Allen shares a powerful story of meeting a 79-year-old billionaire whose business turns over £2 billion a year. Despite his age and challenges, the billionaire is still hooked on “playing the game” – but his version of winning isn’t about chance or luck. It’s about understanding—and influencing—seven essential numbers.Do You Know the Seven Magical Numbers?In the world of the super-successful, business outcomes become predictable because they know which numbers to track and exactly how to move them.Jay reveals these seven magical numbers:Number of inbound enquiries: Are you measuring how many people reach out to your business—through landing pages, forms, emails, or phone calls?Conversion rate: How many of those enquiries become customers? Are you tracking this by channel, landing page, or strategy?Number of customers: The total paying customers in a set period.Average first-time spend: What’s the value of a customer’s first purchase?Purchase progression and lifetime value: How do customers’ behaviour and spending change over time?Cost of goods sold (COGS): What does it actually cost you to deliver your product or service?Net profit margin: After everything is done, what’s left in profit? How can you influence and predict this?Strategic Influence vs. Random EffortInstead of just working harder or relying on luck, Jay explains how elite entrepreneurs develop multiple strategies—174 at last count!—to directly influence these numbers. These aren’t theoretical tips. They’re tried and tested tactics, refined over years of working with more than 120,000 businesses.Methodology That WorksJay introduces the award-winning #AddAZERO methodology, a system based on deep research and real-world data that’s consistently delivered a 26% net profit increase on average for clients. Some businesses have even doubled in less than seven months or grown by 250% within three years!#AddAZeroPodcast#BusinessGrowth#Entrepreneurship#BusinessStrategy#ScaleYourBusiness#BusinessSuccess#Profitability#SustainableGrowth#EthicalBusiness#MyTrueNorth#JayAllen#SevenMagicNumbers#BusinessMentor#GrowYourBusiness#NetProfit#BusinessTips#UKBusiness#SmallBusinessAdvice#BusinessConsulting#BusinessPodcast#LeadershipDevelopment

Welcome to Episode 92 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, presented by Jay Allen and brought to you in association with My TrueNORTH, the UK’s leading ethical coaching company. In this thought-provoking episode, Jay dives deep into a subject critical to every business—ethics. Do ethics truly matter in business, or are they just buzzwords thrown around in mission statements and sales pitches? Join us as we challenge assumptions and explore a powerful real-world example that shows exactly why ethics can mean the difference between life and death—not just for public image, but literally.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy ethics, culture, and standards should be in place from day oneThe risks of neglecting business values and code of conductA real-life (though anonymized) case study showing the tragic impact of unchecked unethical practicesThe importance of validation and accountability in business proceduresHow My TrueNORTH leads by example in the realm of business ethicsPractical takeaways for business owners wanting to ensure authenticity and ethical standards from the ground upEpisode OverviewMost business owners assume that ethics, culture, and codes of conduct are things you deal with after you’ve grown—something to install “when you get to X size.” But as Jay Allen shares, this mindset is dangerously flawed. Using the fictional company “LearnCo” as a stand-in for a real company, Jay tells the story of how prioritizing metrics and rapid growth over genuine ethical standards can have catastrophic consequences.LearnCo positioned itself as an innovative online training platform, offering businesses like Costa Coffee a one-stop solution for staff development and onboarding. With impressive metrics at their fingertips and promises of seamless reporting, companies flocked to LearnCo’s platform. But when a barista’s lack of adequate training led to a fatal error—a child’s tragic allergic reaction—the very foundation of half-measures, unchecked boxes, and lack of validation exposed the immense risks of ethical negligence.Why Listen to This Episode?Real-World Lessons: This episode isn’t theoretical. Jay’s storytelling makes the cost of ethics failure painfully clear—reminding us all what’s truly at stake.Inspiration from the Experts: Learn how My TrueNORTH was recognized for its unwavering ethical stand, and how you can apply these learnings to your own business.Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a solopreneur or a CEO, you’ll walk away with concrete questions and challenges to raise your own standards.Who Should Listen?Business owners and entrepreneurs serious about building scalable and sustainable companiesHR professionals and training officers responsible for employee development and onboardingBoard members and C-Suite leaders concerned with reputational risk and organizational resilienceAnyone interested in the intersection of business growth, ethics, and real-world impactSuppliers, partners, and procurement professionals looking to validate claims of authenticity and ethical practiceListener ChallengeAs you finish this episode, ask yourself:Are you living up to the ethics and standards your brand claims?How do you verify your suppliers’ and partners’ claims of authenticity?Are you validating more than “box-ticking” performance metrics?Email your thoughts, stories, and questions to podcast@mytruenorth.biz – Jay and the team welcome your feedback and real-world challenges.

Welcome to Episode 91 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, the go-to show for ambitious business owners committed to driving significant and sustainable growth for both themselves and their companies. Hosted by Jay Allen, founder of My True North and a renowned ethical business coach, this episode dives deep into one of the most overlooked keys to real progress: embracing failure as a crucial step toward success.Whether you’re a small business owner, an entrepreneur with bold dreams, or a leader keen to future-proof your company, this episode is packed with practical insights, hard-earned lessons, and leadership strategies to help turn your obstacles into powerful opportunities.The Real Value of Failing Forward: Discover why mistakes and setbacks are not roadblocks but essential milestones on your business growth journey.Business “Banana Skins”: Learn to spot the most common pitfalls (Jay’s “banana skins”) successful businesses encounter – and how to avoid slipping up.Case Study – The 64% Revenue Risk: Hear a real-world client story about dangerous overreliance on a single income source, and how to shift toward a more resilient, diversified revenue model.Leadership Blind Spots: Uncover the subtle warning signs leaders often miss amid busy day-to-day operations—and how an outside perspective can reveal hidden opportunities and threats.The Power of Non-Negotiable Standards: Understand how maintaining and upholding consistent business standards is vital for trust, growth, and long-term reputation.Practical Steps for Sustainable Growth: Actionable advice to help implement change, evaluate your business from multiple perspectives, and lead with greater confidence and integrity.In an eye-opening client case study, Jay discusses a company where a single client made up a staggering 64% of annual revenue. This overdependence created massive cash flow vulnerability, especially when payment terms slipped out of sync. Jay’s solution? Diversify revenue sources to ensure no invoice or client exceeds the net annual profit, drastically reducing risk and ensuring business continuity—no matter what happens to one major account.Borrowing lessons from his time in the British Army, Jay explains the concept of “the standard”—a non-negotiable benchmark that defines how business is done. He warns against the slow erosion of standards (like quietly accepting late payments or overlooked conditions), because these small lapses can undermine trust and set dangerous precedents. “The standard is the standard,” he says—keep your word, uphold your terms, and maintain consistency in every facet of your company.Even the best leaders can miss subtle signs of trouble: loyal team members leaving for competitors, suppliers bending rules, or seemingly small exceptions to your core policies. These “leadership blind spots” often go unaddressed when things are generally good, yet they can hide serious risks or lost opportunities underneath the surface. Jay stresses the value of seeking outside perspectives—from a coach, mentor, or even by role-playing as your own supplier or employee—to catch what you might otherwise overlook.The episode closes with a call to action: regularly step out of your business and look back with a critical eye. Evaluate your company from the perspective of clients, suppliers, stakeholders, and potential recruits. This 360-degree view can be the catalyst for game-changing breakthroughs, revealing new paths for growth while protecting against avoidable disasters.#BusinessGrowth#SustainableGrowth#FailingForward#BusinessLessons#BananaSkins#CashFlow#DiversifyIncome#Leadership#BusinessRisks#EthicalBusiness#MyTrueNorth#AddAZero#BusinessOwner#EntrepreneurMindset#BlindSpots#BusinessCoaching#ScaleYourBusiness#NetProfit#BusinessStandards#LearningFromFailure#BusinessAdvice#UKBusiness#LeadershipDevelopment#BusinessMentor#SustainableSuccess

Episode 90: How We Found £225,000 in Hidden Revenue – Real Business Audit Breakdown | #Add A Zero PodcastUnlock hidden profits in your business! In this episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen shares the step-by-step process he used to discover over £225,000 of missed revenue for a business owner—before they even became a client. Dive into real examples of common business leaks: unbilled work, underpricing, missed upsell opportunities, and the importance of effective follow-up.Whether you’re a small business owner or managing a thriving company, learn actionable strategies to plug hidden profit leaks and scale your revenue. Listen as we break down real-life business challenges, discuss ethical scaling, and showcase how My True North’s award-winning #AddAZERO methodology empowers UK business leaders to achieve sustainable growth.Don’t miss:Real-world audit findings turning lost time into cashHow a simple follow-up can immediately boost revenueSteps you can take today to uncover and reclaim lost profits in your businessThe value of ethical consultancy in sustainable business successSubscribe for more powerful business growth tips and stories!#BusinessGrowth #BusinessAudit #AddAZero #Podcast #Entrepreneurship #EthicalBusiness #RevenueGrowth #MyTrueNorth— Presented by Jay Allen, Founder of My True North – The UK’s Leading Ethical Coaching CompanyListen now and discover the hidden gold in your business!

Welcome to Episode 89 of the #Add A Zero Podcast!Are you a business owner looking for sustainable growth and real-world insights?In this episode, hosts Jay Allen does a deep dive into the theme: “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There.” Jay shares the journey of Alex, a business owner who transitioned from redundancy to running a thriving business—before encountering the roadblocks of time, scaling, and burnout. Discover how targeted auditing, strategic tweaks, and courageous investments can transform your business trajectory.Learn:Why working harder doesn’t always lead to meaningful growthThe power of stepping off the tools and working ON your businessWhen and how to seek outside help, including funding and mentorshipReal stories of scale, including how Alex doubled his business output and began winning five-figure contractsThe critical importance of exit strategies and leadership planning for long-term business securityWhether you’re just starting up, finding yourself stuck, or planning an exit, this episode delivers valuable takeaways on scaling sustainably, maintaining work-life balance, and future-proofing your success.👥 Hosted by: Jay Allen, presented in partnership with My True North – the UK’s leading ethical coaching companySubscribe, comment, and share your thoughts below!Contact us at podcast@mytruenorth.biz#BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #SustainableScaling #Podcast #AddAZero

Are you a business owner committed to the sustainable and significant growth of your company? In this episode, Jay Allen (he/him), founder of My True North and ethical business growth expert, dives deep into the top five future trends every SME business leader needs to prepare for to succeed in the next decade.Building on insights from his popular TEDx talk, “The 50 Careers to Train for Which Don’t Exist Yet,” Jay shares the realities and challenges business owners face as predicted changes arrive faster than expected. Covering key themes—hybrid working, skills evolution, employee well-being, technology and AI developments, and the rise of purpose-driven business—this episode is packed with actionable ideas.Key Topics Covered:The rise and impact of hybrid working and why resistance is futileHow evolving skillsets and continuous professional development (CPD) are essential for business survivalThe growing importance of workplace wellness and supporting employees as humans, not just “resources”Navigating the relentless pace of technology and staying relevant with AI, machine learning, and automationWhy leading with purpose now outweighs sheer profitability and how to build a business people are proud to supportWhether you want to attract top talent, retain customers, or ensure your business thrives in shifting times, this episode provides the guidance you need.🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and join the conversation! Share your thoughts and questions in the comments, or email us at podcast@mytruenorth.bizBrought to you by My True North—the UK’s leading ethical coaching company, helping conscientious business owners scale and leave a meaningful legacy.#BusinessGrowth #Leadership #FutureofWork #AIPodcast #SME #BusinessTrends #HybridWorking #PurposeDriven #MyTrueNorth

Are you building a business for today—or for the future? In Episode 87 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen of My True North challenges conscientious business owners to confront one of the most overlooked, yet critical aspects of business leadership: planning your exit.Jay shares real-life stories, including his own hard lessons from running a company that faced upheaval when a major client collapsed, and the personal cost of being “tied” to a business with no succession plan. Discover why even successful, thriving businesses face the risk of sudden collapse or unethical closure if continuity and legacy aren't part of your growth strategy.Through insightful examples—from sudden health scares to undervalued business sales and fractured partnerships—this episode unpacks the importance of:Building a business that thrives without your daily involvementCreating continuity and legacy plans to protect your team and investmentEstablishing clear, legally binding partnership agreements before you need themEnsuring your business, brand, and staff are future-proofed against the unexpectedWhether you intend to sell, scale, or simply secure your enterprise for the long haul, Jay’s advice will provoke important questions and offer actionable steps to future-proof your company. Here are 3 key takeaways every conscientious business owner should consider:Don’t Wait for a Crisis: Even thriving businesses are vulnerable if the owner is at the center. An unexpected health issue or life event can derail years of hard work if there’s no succession plan in place.Your Business Needs Independence: The more your business relies on you personally, the less valuable (and less stable) it becomes. Building systems and a strong team enable your company to grow and succeed—with or without your daily involvement.Plan for Legacy, Not Just Income: Closing the doors on a profitable business when you retire isn’t just shortsighted—Jay argues it’s unethical if it puts loyal employees out of work. Planning for exit ensures your business, and the livelihoods it supports, continue to thrive.Ask yourself honestly: If you had to step back tomorrow, would your business (and your people) flourish or flounder? Now is the time to put solid continuity and exit plans in place—for your peace of mind, your team, and your legacy.Want to learn more about exit planning, succession, and ethical business growth? Don’t miss this powerful conversation designed to help you create a company that leaves a lasting legacy, not just a bottom line.Tune in now and take the next steps toward a more resilient, impactful business!#Tags:#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #ExitPlanning #BusinessGrowth #SuccessionPlanning #Leadership #EthicalBusiness #ScaleYourBusiness #LegacyBuilding #FutureProofYourBusiness #Partnerships #SmallBusiness #BusinessOwner #SustainableGrowth #BusinessAdvice #AddAZero #MyTrueNorth #BusinessStrategy #UKBusiness #JobCreation #BusinessContinuityListen and discover why every business owner needs an exit strategy—before you think you need it!

Are you building a business for today—or for the future? In Episode 87 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen of My True North challenges conscientious business owners to confront one of the most overlooked, yet critical aspects of business leadership: planning your exit.Jay shares real-life stories, including his own hard lessons from running a company that faced upheaval when a major client collapsed, and the personal cost of being “tied” to a business with no succession plan. Discover why even successful, thriving businesses face the risk of sudden collapse or unethical closure if continuity and legacy aren't part of your growth strategy.Through insightful examples—from sudden health scares to undervalued business sales and fractured partnerships—this episode unpacks the importance of:Building a business that thrives without your daily involvementCreating continuity and legacy plans to protect your team and investmentEstablishing clear, legally binding partnership agreements before you need themEnsuring your business, brand, and staff are future-proofed against the unexpectedWhether you intend to sell, scale, or simply secure your enterprise for the long haul, Jay’s advice will provoke important questions and offer actionable steps to future-proof your company. Here are 3 key takeaways every conscientious business owner should consider:Don’t Wait for a Crisis: Even thriving businesses are vulnerable if the owner is at the center. An unexpected health issue or life event can derail years of hard work if there’s no succession plan in place.Your Business Needs Independence: The more your business relies on you personally, the less valuable (and less stable) it becomes. Building systems and a strong team enable your company to grow and succeed—with or without your daily involvement.Plan for Legacy, Not Just Income: Closing the doors on a profitable business when you retire isn’t just shortsighted—Jay argues it’s unethical if it puts loyal employees out of work. Planning for exit ensures your business, and the livelihoods it supports, continue to thrive.Ask yourself honestly: If you had to step back tomorrow, would your business (and your people) flourish or flounder? Now is the time to put solid continuity and exit plans in place—for your peace of mind, your team, and your legacy.Want to learn more about exit planning, succession, and ethical business growth? Don’t miss this powerful conversation designed to help you create a company that leaves a lasting legacy, not just a bottom line.Tune in now and take the next steps toward a more resilient, impactful business!#Tags:#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #ExitPlanning #BusinessGrowth #SuccessionPlanning #Leadership #EthicalBusiness #ScaleYourBusiness #LegacyBuilding #FutureProofYourBusiness #Partnerships #SmallBusiness #BusinessOwner #SustainableGrowth #BusinessAdvice #AddAZero #MyTrueNorth #BusinessStrategy #UKBusiness #JobCreation #BusinessContinuityListen and discover why every business owner needs an exit strategy—before you think you need it!