#ADDAZERO Business Challenge

7 years in the making, almost three years of testing and implementation. Then COVID-19, Global Lockdown and a visit to Tony Robbins! This is the news so many business owners in the UK have been waiting for! And, I'm DELIGHTED to share that the wait, is almost over. In today's episode, we reveal the journey we've been on, in sharing the #ADDAZERO content over the past 2-3 years, and how it sometimes takes a proper size 12 KUTA to step back, and look at the bigger picture! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

The Get BIG or Go Home Principles Welcome to another exciting episode of #ADDAZERO, the podcast that empowers you to think big and achieve transformative outcomes. In today's episode, we dive into the #ADDAZERO Get Big or Go Home principles, exploring the mindset and strategies needed to accelerate growth and unlock your hidden potential. We'll delve into the science behind visualization, the power of embracing discomfort, the importance of collaboration and iteration, and the impact of setting audacious goals. Are you ready to #ADDAZERO to your aspirations, efforts, and outcomes? Then listen in as we explore these principles and inspire you to break free from limitations, think big, and achieve extraordinary results. Key topics The importance of thinking beyond goals and embracing discomfort Familiar thinking patterns and their limitations The power of mental rehearsal and visualization Shifting perspective to future-oriented thinking Unlocking hidden potential through thinking big Neuroscientific evidence and success stories Elon Musk, Jim Carrey Steve Jobb's all who achieved success through audacious thinking The significance of setting audacious goals Edwin Locke's goal-setting theory and the impact of specific challenging goals How audacious health goals can increase adherence to healthier behaviour The role of discomfort in personal and professional growth The connection between discomfort and long-term achievement The concept of the learning zone and its relationship to growth and innovation Success stories and the impact of pushing beyond comfort Breaking free from current time thinking and limitations The brain's potential for growth and adaptability The importance of venturing into uncharted territory Common concerns that hinder big thinking Strategies to challenge and overcome self-imposed boundaries Collaboration and iteration as catalysts for innovation The role of mirror neurons and collaboration in effective communication The benefits of diverse collaboration and its impact on success The transformative power of continuous iteration and adaptation The importance of quick testing, feedback, and adapting for innovation Avoiding sunk costs and optimizing resources through iterative thinking The concept of failing fast and learning from failures Don't forget to subscribe and share this podcast with your friends. Let's #ADDAZERO together! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

Welcome back to another episode of #ADDAZERO, the podcast where we dive deep into the world of scaling up businesses for tremendous success. Today we have a fascinating episode lined up for you as we unpack the Scaleup Scorecard and explore the key factors that can make or break your business. In this episode, we'll be delving into the importance of building a world-class business with significant scale opportunities, and how to identify hidden opportunities and vulnerabilities within your own organization using the ADDAZERO scorecard. We'll also be sharing a personal story that highlights the impact of unexpected closures and the need to understand the reasons behind them. But that's not all! We'll be unveiling an exciting research plan where we analyze data from 150 national businesses that experienced significant growth, only to eventually fail. Discover the secrets to sustainable success and learn from the mistakes of others. Throughout this episode, we'll be exploring the three floors of business success. We'll discuss the importance of a consistent business plan, finding the right balance between people, systems, and processes, and remaining people-centric in decision-making and customer experience. Key Topics Covered Importance of creating a world-class business with significant and sustainable scale opportunities Understanding the potential for growth and expansion Maximizing opportunities for scalability in business operations Introduction of the ADDAZERO scorecard tool Identifying hidden opportunities and vulnerabilities within a business Assessing the overall health and growth potential of a business A personal story about the impact of Woolworths' closure Demonstrating the need to understand the reasons behind business decisions Highlighting the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges Development of a research plan to analyze data from failed businesses Analyzing the factors that led to the failure of 150 national businesses Identifying common pitfalls and challenges in scaling up businesses The three flaws within business growth Consistent business planning and strategy development Finding the right balance between people, systems, and processes Prioritizing people-centric decision-making and customer experience As we near the end of the episode, we want to take a moment to thank all of our amazing listeners for their continuous support. Your feedback, comments, thoughts, and suggestions are invaluable to us. Don't hesitate to reach out to us via email, as we'd love to hear from you. If you haven't already, be sure to subscribe to the ADDAZERO podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss an episode. And remember, sharing is caring! Share this podcast with your colleagues and business network to help spread the word. Sit back, relax, and get ready for an insightful episode as we dive deep into the Scaleup Scorecard. Let's ADDAZERO to your business success, grab your Scorecard report HERE Brought to you by My TrueNORTH - The UK's leading Ethical Coaching Company. As part of our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by enabling business owners to significantly and sustainably scale up their businesses. That collectively, we can create more new roles, than there are those ACTIVELY seeking employment. Are YOU ready to #ADDAZERO? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

Cracking the Code of the Numbers Game In today's episode, titled "The Game of Business," we delve deep into the world of numbers and how understanding them can make or break your success. It's time to level up your game as we explore the crucial metrics for sustainable small business growth. We'll uncover the power of revenue and profit margins, discover the importance of customer acquisition cost (CAC) and customer lifetime value (CLTV), and learn how to navigate the waters of cash flow, inventory turnover, customer churn, and retention rates. But it doesn't stop there. We'll also dive into the finer details, exploring gross and net profit margins by product and service, as well as understanding return on investment and breakeven points. These key metrics are the foundation for informed decision-making, resource optimization, and strategic planning. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the numbers behind your business or wondered if you're making the right financial choices, this episode is for you. Don't let a lack of understanding hold you back from achieving your full potential. Key topics covered Introduction to the importance of numbers in the game of business Exploring key metrics for sustainable small business growth Revenue and profit margins Customer acquisition cost (CAC) and customer lifetime value (CLTV) Cash flow Inventory turnover Customer churn and retention rates Gross and net profit margins by product and service Return on investment and breakeven points The consequences of failing to measure and understand critical numbers Misguided decisions Financial instability Stagnation Inefficient resource allocation Lack of focus The benefits of strategic focus on critical metrics Informed decision-making Resource optimization Agile adaptation Financial resilience Strategic planning As this enlightening episode comes to a close, we invite you to share your thoughts, comments, and suggestions with us. Send an email to podcast@myTrueNORTH.biz.And don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your chosen platform. By subscribing, you'll never miss an episode packed with valuable insights and strategies that will help you add a zero to your business. Remember, sharing is caring. If you find this episode valuable, share it with your colleagues and business network. Together, we can create a community of entrepreneurs who are armed with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive. All as part of our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK. By supporting business owners to significantly and sustainably scale up their businesses. That collectively, we can create more new roles, than there are those actively seeking employment. Have YOU got what it takes to #ADDAZERO? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

Welcome to a completely 'different' episode of #ADDAZERO! In today's #ADDAZERO Insights episode, we are going to dive deep into the world of brainstorming winning moves for your business. Get ready to unlock those big ideas and opportunities that have been lingering in the back of your mind. We all have our fair share of ideas that we've discussed but haven't acted upon yet. Life gets busy, and sometimes the timing just doesn't feel right. But here's the thing – those ideas could be game-changers for your business, and it's time to give them the attention they deserve. In this episode, we'll explore different strategies and methods to help you turn those ideas into winning moves. We'll be referencing the incredibly powerful book called '#ADDAZERO - Scale to Summit' which provides invaluable insights into achieving scalable growth. Our focus today is on establishing a strong foundation, exploring different models and strategies, and aligning your visions, values, and culture with your long-term goals. We'll discuss the three fundamental elements needed to run a successful business: marketing, sales, and operations. But that's not all – we'll also touch upon the importance of creating a solid team, whether that's through hiring new employees or outsourcing certain tasks. Financial management, especially monitoring cash flow, will be emphasized as a critical aspect of scaling up your business. We'll delve into the art of identifying untapped areas within your business, removing barriers that prevent prospects from becoming customers and uncovering new revenue opportunities through partnerships and cross-promotions. And as always, we'll share insights from the Addazero Community, where business owners can come together, learn from one another, and share their experiences. So, if you're ready to brainstorm those winning moves and take your business to new heights, this episode is for you. Let's #ADDAZERO together! To join our thriving #Entrepreneur community of other like-minded business owners, simply visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MTNAddAZero --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

Welcome back to another exciting episode of #ADDAZERO! In today's episode is all about the valuable lessons I learned from the one and only Tony Robbins. If you're a fan of personal growth and eager to address your limiting beliefs, then you're in for a treat. I'll be sharing three powerful lessons inspired by Tony Robbins and other exceptional presenters that have truly transformed the way I approach life and business. We'll dive deep into the importance of managing our emotions and energy, and how our mindset directly impacts the impact we have on the world. But it doesn't stop there. We'll also discuss the significance of prioritizing self-care in order to be of service to others. It's a common phenomenon for us to feel motivated to make changes after attending a life-changing event or listening to an inspiring podcast, only to lose that drive when life gets busy. We'll explore why this happens and why putting personal development on the back burner can actually hinder our progress for years. During the conference I attended, there was a three-hour ritual to delve into habit change and ensure that the lessons learned became ingrained in our daily routines. The conference was a whirlwind of emotions, highlighted by an ironic final song, suggesting that life would never be the same again. But that's exactly what we're aiming for! We want to show up every day as a different person, with a different mindset and intent. It's about shedding the limiting beliefs that held us back before and embracing a new way of being. It's about giving 100% to ourselves and in turn, being able to give 100% to others without burning out. We'll also explore the transformative impact of the UPW event, the unconventional digital experience that challenged our perception of what a conference could achieve. From interactive elements like an app, kinesthetic items, and a workbook, to the powerful connections and networking opportunities with thousands of like-minded individuals, the conference was a game changer. I'm excited to share my insights on sustainable business growth and unlocking untapped potential. We'll discuss the importance of finding what sets your business apart, shifting from price competition to providing real value, and stepping into your full potential as a business owner. It's time to break free from limiting beliefs and forge ahead toward new heights of success and recognition. So grab your headphones, tune in, and let's dive into these life-altering lessons together. Don't forget to book a virtual coffee with me, as I'm eager to connect and help you unlock your full potential. Get ready to #ADDAZERO and transform your life and business! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

The Journey to Harmonizing Your Life and Achieving Success Welcome back to another episode of #ADDAZERO! In today's episode, we have an incredible duo joining us, Fintech turned Yoggie Sarah Ratner and her father Jewelry mogul Gerald Ratner , as they share their unique insights and experiences on finding balance, overcoming challenges, and discovering purpose in both work and life. Sarah is working to transform the growing & restrictive epidemic of burnout culture. She spent the last 9 years working with a truly exceptional team, growing the FinTech team at Lendable from 5 - 350 people. Where she went from a solo-ops agent to leading an operation of 100, as COO. Sarah now runs ikigai holistic⁠, where she empowers businesses to incorporate mindfulness practices in the workplace, further enhancing well-being and productivity. Gerald gained significant attention and notoriety for his role as the former CEO of Ratners Group, a once-prominent jewellery retail chain in the United Kingdom. Under his leadership, the company became one of the largest jewellery chains in Britain. That was until a speech he delivered at an Institute of Directors conference in 1991, which led to a dramatic downfall in his business empire. Despite the setbacks he faced, Gerald Ratner has demonstrated resilience and a sense of humour about the situation over the years. For me, and many others Gerald's journey is a reminder that even amidst setbacks, entrepreneurs can find ways to rebuild, learn, and evolve. What did they learn from this? It’s all about the people. How we think about things, rather than what we knew. How we moved quickly and didn’t obsess over perfection. And how we treated each other, the laughter and care that created a family, in turn, created a multi-product, multi-continent, multi-unicorn business.The most valuable lesson? How to truly invest in people. To offer meaning, joy and value each day. So work can be fulfilling, transformative, expansive and sustainable. So we can be well. And so Ikigai Flow was born, combining my time as founding team/ COO, and yoga teacher. Gerald and Sarah invite us into their world, shedding light on the importance of harmonizing various aspects of our lives, whether it's family, social connections, faith, or pursuing our passions. In this engaging three-way conversation, we explore the significance of work-life harmony (rather than balance) and the joy that can be found in activities outside of work. Both highlight the importance of physical exercise and mental stimulation, revealing how having a well-rounded life can lead to true happiness. To the wisdom imparted by my great-grandmother, who lived to be 100 and emphasized daily exercise and continuous learning, to the significance of being self-conscious in order to be selfless, our guests provide valuable advice on achieving fulfilment and supporting others along the way. They also delve into their own entrepreneurial journeys, sharing Gerald's experiences in the jewellery business and the secret to his success - By going against conventional wisdom and catering to a younger market's desires for affordable and impulse-buy items, they managed to capture a remarkable 50% of the market. But it hasn't always been smooth sailing for Sarah or Gerald. They both discuss facing obstacles and learning from their mistakes. Join us as we dive deeper into the inspiring stories and invaluable lessons shared by our incredible guests, and discover how finding balance and purpose can lead to extraordinary success in both work and life. So grab a notebook and pen, as we dive into #ADDAZERO: The Ratner Duo! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

On this episode of #ADDAZERO, we delve into the 11 steps to be voted SUPERBOSS. Our discussion begins with the importance of leaders taking the time to personally know each member of their team and ensuring they are prepared for operational commitments. We then explore the significance of leaders showing genuine interest in their employees as individuals and how an inspiring mission statement that goes beyond just making money can rally a workforce. Next, we examine the impact of employees understanding how their role contributes to the mission statement and how companies that do not tolerate fools easily create a strong work environment. We also explore the value of acknowledging and apologizing for mistakes, which is seen as a major factor in making a company a great place to work. Diving deeper, we discuss the importance of financial considerations, such as receiving salaries early after the holiday season, as a way to show employees that their well-being matters. We also explore how creating a fun and enjoyable work culture, like Google's innovative workplace ideas, can enhance employee productivity. Recognizing personal development is another crucial factor discussed, with examples from Google funding employees' activities like windsurfing as rewards for good work. We explore key facts from a survey of over 17,000 employees, ranking the most important factors for a great workplace, including flexible working, recognition, and genuine interest from employers. Lastly, we touch on the annual list of the top 100 companies to work for in the world and the research conducted by DeMontford University to understand the factors that make these companies the best places to work. Join us as we uncover the secrets to becoming a SUPERBOSS in this enlightening episode of #ADDAZERO. Key points 1. The Power of Personal Connection- Taking the time to personally know each member of the regiment- Ensuring everyone is ready for operational commitments 2. Genuine Interest in Employees- Showing genuine interest in employees as individuals, not just workers- Recognizing the importance of knowing employees beyond their job role 3. Inspiring Mission Statement- Having an inspiring mission statement that everyone can support- Moving beyond solely focusing on making money towards bigger goals 4. Understanding Individual Contribution- Helping employees understand how their role contributes to the mission statement- Making sure employees see the impact they have on the bigger picture 5. Not Suffering Fools- Creating an environment that doesn't tolerate slack work- Acknowledging and apologizing for mistakes made by HR or management 6. Quick to Fire and Apologize- Being humble enough to admit when wrong- Taking quick action to rectify hiring mistakes or cultural differences 7. Acknowledging and Apologizing- Recognizing that acknowledging and apologizing for mistakes is vital- Understanding the impact this has on making the company a great place to work 8. Financial Consideration- Considering employee financial well-being beyond salary- Recognizing the importance of receiving January salary early 9. Creating a Fun Culture- Understanding the importance of a fun and enjoyable work environment- Highlighting the success of innovative workplace ideas such as Google's 10. Recognition of Personal Development- Recognizing and supporting employees' personal development activities- Demonstrating care for employees' growth outside of the workplace 11. Importance of Incentives and Benefits- Discussing the importance of bonuses and added benefits- Exploring various examples of incentives and benefits offered Brought to you, as part of our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by supporting Business Leaders to grow sufficiently, so that collectively we create more new roles, than there are those actively seeking employment. Visit www.addazero.co.uk/free-scale-audit to learn more about the hidden opportunities and vulnerabilities in YOUR business. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

In this episode of the #ADDAZERO podcast, we address common objections to coaching and share inspiring success stories. Let's dive in! 1. Referrals and Trusted Networks: Discover how referrals from colleagues and trusted friends can boost awareness and confidence in the coaching process, providing invaluable support. 2. Tailored Coaching Approaches: Explore how different types of business coaching and approaches can address specific needs and goals, ensuring you receive personalized strategies to excel. 3. Embracing Change and Growth: Overcome the fear of change and pave the way for personal and professional growth, enabling you to reach your full potential. 4. Establishing Trust: Learn why building a strong foundation of trust with your coach is crucial for effective coaching, creating a safe space for growth and development. 5. Ethical Standards and Confidentiality: Understand how business coaches prioritize client confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards, offering a secure and confidential environment for collaboration. 6. Building Rapport and Trust: Discover why coaches offer sessions to establish rapport and build trust before committing to a coaching relationship, ensuring a strong partnership. 7. Expertise and Fresh Perspectives: Uncover how business coaches bring expertise and fresh perspectives to enhance your overall competency and decision-making skills, amplifying your success. 8. Seeking Support Network: Explore the importance of building a support network when pursuing coaching, and overcoming scepticism or resistance from others. 9. Researching and Communication: Learn how conducting research and communicating past negative experiences can help you select the right coach, ensuring a fruitful coaching relationship. 10. Humility and Growth Mindset: Embrace humility and a growth mindset for continual learning and improvement, propelling you towards long-term success. Remember, #ADDAZERO has received awards and helped clients achieve remarkable growth and success. As passionate advocates for scaling businesses, they invite you to book a call and explore how they can support your journey. Despite common objections to coaching, the podcast addresses each concern head-on. From addressing perceived costs and time commitments to showcasing personalized strategies, testimonials, and free consultations, they strive to eliminate any doubts about the effectiveness of business coaching. In other news, we share the inspiring story of a business that experienced unprecedented growth in the last four months. The owner's overwhelming success has resulted in an unexpected offer to buy the business. We delve into their decision-making process and journey towards early retirement. As always, we appreciate your support and encourage you to share your thoughts, comments, and suggestions with us by sending an email. Don't forget to subscribe to the #ADDAZERO podcast and spread the word among your colleagues and business network. And support our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by supporting Business Owners and Entrepreneurs to scale up their businesses sufficiently, so that collectively we create more new roles than there are those actively seeking employment. Warm regards, The #ADDAZERO Team --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

Have you ever found yourself constantly firefighting and addressing immediate problems in your business? How did it impact your overall productivity and growth? How important are systems and processes in ensuring efficiency, reducing costs, and satisfying customers? On this episode of #ADDAZERO, we delve into the role of business owners as primary problem solvers, or as we like to call them, 'firefighters.' Hosted by Jay Allen, this podcast aims to help business owners eradicate unemployment in the UK by promoting business growth. We explore Your role as a primary problem solver or "firefighter" in their own business - Discussion on the common issue of owners and leaders constantly firefighting and not having a strategic plan - Emphasis on the importance of prevention and long-term planning for successful business ownership Negative consequences of not delegating, including burnout, stifled growth, and reduced employee morale - Highlighting the impact of poor systems and processes, leading to inefficiency, increased costs, and customer dissatisfaction - Exploring the effects of ineffective time management on neglecting strategic planning and reduced productivity The need to implement strategies and processes to prevent problems in business - Emphasizing the importance of a proactive approach focused on prevention and long-term planning - Outlining the necessary tools, resources, expertise, and preparation required to navigate challenges The significance of recovery, restoration, and learning after challenges arise - Explanation of how a strategic plan provides clarity, focus, and a proactive approach to long-term success - Introduction of the role of an independent mentor in providing valuable feedback, challenging thinking, and offering guidance and support Highlighting the risks of firefighting without a strategic plan - Discussion on the lack of direction, missed opportunities, and burnout that can arise from firefighting - Importance of strategic planning and mentorship in navigating challenges and achieving sustainable success Acknowledging that different business circumstances may require different planning and mindsets - Encouragement to view the business from a higher perspective and detach oneself to determine impact and plan for the future All brought to you, as part of our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by supporting Business Owners & Entrepreneurs to Scaleup their businesses sufficiently, so that collectively we can create more new roles than there are those actively seeking employment. Care to learn more? Book a call --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

On this episode of #ADDAZERO, we delve into the world of B Corp certification with Russ Wakeham, co-founder of 2 Drifters Distillery. Russ shares his insights on the importance of adopting B Corp certification and how it aligns with the culture of a business. He emphasizes that while certification alone cannot transform a culture overnight, it is worth going through the exercise of conducting the free assessment and utilizing the tools provided by B Corp to develop one's business. Russ discusses the cost and significant work involved in obtaining B Corp certification but also highlights the value of the free tools available on the B Corp website that can help businesses understand different ways of thinking and problem-solving. Many businesses today are striving for transparency and sustainability, and Russ mentions how 2 Drifters Distillery has made conscious choices, such as partnering with carbon-neutral courier service DPD and actively seeking sustainable transport solutions. We learn about Russ's background as an academic chemist researching carbon capture and storage, and how this passion led him to start his own venture in the distillery industry. 2 Drifters Distillery aims to be a carbon-negative distillery and has partnered with Climbworks to remove CO2 from the atmosphere and store it underground. Russ emphasizes the importance of mitigating environmental impact and avoiding greenwashing and shares his experiences and challenges in obtaining B Corp certification. Certification has become one of the best tools for pushing 2 Drifters Distillery forward in sustainability, encouraging continuous improvement and putting purpose before profit. The distillery not only aims to produce great rum but also to educate people about carbon capture technologies and the importance of considering carbon as a waste material. By fully embracing renewable energy and being an example for other businesses, the distillery hopes to have a massive impact on reducing carbon emissions across industries. Russ also shares his research on the failure of big corporate businesses and the lessons that can be learned from it. He highlights the importance of creating a workplace that is enjoyable and fun, which sets 2 Drifters Distillery apart in the market. The episode explores the holistic approach to scaling a business and the need for constant review, revision, and adaptation to keep up with changing circumstances and advancements in technology. The discussion also touches upon the potential misuse of B Corp certification for short-term commercial gain, and Russ encourages consumers to look beyond just the certification and consider a company's history and commitment to B Corp. He shares some of the big wins 2 Drifters Distillery has directly attributed to their B Corp certification, such as partnerships with British Airways and The Pig Hotels. The B Corp journey has not only changed the company's thinking but has also led to the creation of a run club and regular beach clean events, reflecting their commitment to sustainability. This episode concludes with the exciting news of 2 Drifters Distillery launching an event inviting buyers and customers, including The Pig Hotels, to participate in beach clean activities at Smith Beach. It's an engaging episode that explores the importance of B Corp certification and sustainability in the distillery industry, providing insights and inspiration for businesses of all sizes. All as part of our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by supporting Business Leaders & Entrepreneurs to scale up their businesses sufficiently, that collectively we create more new roles, than there are those actively seeking employment. To learn more, about the scaleability of your business, visit: www.addazero.co.uk/free-scale-audit --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

On this episode of #ADDAZERO, we tackle the nine most common hurdles that startups face and provide valuable insights and strategies for overcoming them. From adapting to uncertainty to securing funding and building a strong network, I cover it all. Topics covered in this audio session: 1. Adapting to Uncertainty and Setbacks- Risks of making decisions alone or with a small team- Importance of having a ScaleUp mentor for guidance and support 2. Feasibility and Unique Business Ideas- Being exceptional in a niche is not enough- Market research and testing for a viable business idea 3. Capital and Funding Challenges- Difficulty acquiring enough capital- Traditional financing sources and personal savings limitations 4. Testing Before Launching- Importance of testing the business model before launch- Likelihood of relying on personal savings or loans from family and friends for funding 5. Effective Communication and Differentiation- Importance of communicating value proposition- Differentiating oneself from competitors in the digital age 6. Attracting and Maintaining Clients- Challenges in attracting and retaining clients- Managing multiple responsibilities and prioritizing tasks 7. Funding Options and Addazero's Assistance- Self-funding, bootstrapping, crowdfunding, or bank loans- Addazero's connections with funding professionals 8. Building a Strong Network- Importance of building connections and relationships- Building a network of suppliers, industry experts, and potential customers 9. #ADDAZERO Community and Resources- Access to resources and networking opportunities- The AddAZero Vault and its business plan template and webinars 10. Managing Cash Flow and Relationships- Building relationships with supportive people- Importance of tight financial control and ongoing marketing presence 11. Developing a Competitive Advantage- Challenges in standing out in a crowded marketplace Tune in to this episode of #ADDAZERO to gain valuable strategies and insights on overcoming the most common startup hurdles and taking your business to the next level. Timestamps [00:01:15] Understanding niche not enough for business success. [00:04:30] Acquiring capital for a business is difficult. [00:06:19] Starting a business takes time, money, and connections. [00:10:37] Managing money, marketing, and standing out crucial. [00:16:43] Guidance, advice, feedback for confident progress. Safe community supports vulnerability, testing & scaling. [00:18:08] Various funding options available, connections to professionals. [00:21:35] Financially astute actions for business growth. [00:24:42] ScaleUp mentor enables business growth and support. Summary Remember, building a scalable business takes time and effort, but with the right guidance and resources, you can achieve extraordinary growth. We've made it our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by supporting Business Leaders & Entrepreneurs to scale up sufficiently, so that collectively we create more new roles, than there are those actively seeking employment! - Visit www.mytruenorth.biz to learn more Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes focusing on additional strategies and insights for your entrepreneurial journey. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

If walking into a room full of strangers feels like your worst fear, you’re not alone. Many people do their best to avoid networking altogether, but this attitude can be very detrimental to your success. Networking is crucial to both you and your business, but it doesn’t have to be as intimidating as you think. Love it or hate it—it works - It’s about initiating, building, and maintaining relationships. Your network is the group of people you know who like you, trust you, hire you, and send their friends and family to you. Networking is about connection and caring. Networking is about compassion and commitment. It's about knowing, understanding, communicating, and demonstrating that what you do and say is coming from a place of support, encouragement and being of service.  Networking is not: selling connecting on Facebook or LinkedIn attending for a 'free lunch' trying to meet every single person at the event you didn’t want to attend talking about yourself throwing business cards at people as you make eye contact with the next person at which you intend to throw a card e-mailing the same article to 200 people on “your list,” or having lunch and never calling again. Networking is about creating relationships with people who are a good fit for you and for whom you can be a good fit. It's about building those relationships over time so trust grows. Learning what it is that other people need to fulfil their dreams and revealing what you need as well. Ultimately, it's about helping one another make those dreams come true. Today, I got to catch up and hang out with the former youngest FTSE 250 Managing Director, turned Entrepreneur to discuss What, How and WHY to network effectively.  Jamie Stewart had an impressive career in 'corporate' rising the being Managing Director of a FTSE 250 at the age of 33.  However, these days you'll find him enjoying time with his family, walking the dogs, having lunch/dinner out and generally enjoying all life has to offer! No, he's not yet retired, he's the founder of Circle Networks. Jamie identified what everyone else complained about when attending other network events, and set about to create something completely new, different and HIGHLY effective. In his own words "Circle Networks more than fills the gap in virtual networking, driving quality conversations, and helping you to make great connections that lead to new business opportunities." You can hear Jamies' interview of me on the Networking LAB podcast here (And, if you chose to join, remember to state that you were referred by Jay Allen) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

One of the things I’ve observed in the last 18 months or so, is how many people are telling white lies! I’m not calling people liars – we’ve all been guilty of not wanting to admit the real reason we are late to attend the endless zoom meetings was “I needed the loo”. But there appears to be a growing urge to tell everyone “everything’s fine” when clearly it’s not! Social media (and people's addiction to it) has seen endless scrolling of “Success stories” with people draped over expensive cars, scantily clad exotic holiday pics, and sumptuous surroundings whilst out for dinner. Viewers see this as a personal challenge against their own microwave tea, and a race to do better! And so, the lies begin. It’s not intentional, but a ‘social necessity' to fit in, to be someone to be accepted! However, what is even worse than this, is the lies we are told and those we tell ourselves! In today's podcast, I unearth some of the most popular myths and lies Business Owners are told! And the most common lies we tell ourselves! Thankfully, it's not all doom and gloom though as I also share how to break the habit and the impact doing so can have on both you and your business. A full transcript of the podcast, and links to all I've mentioned within, can be found here Brought to you by Jay Allen, host of the ADDAZERO Podcast, and founder of My TrueNORTH - Home of the ADDAZERO Business Masterminds. We've made it our mission to support YOU to ADDAZERO to your Personal Disposable Income! So that you can buy the home of your dreams, take extensive exotic holidays, and fall back in love with your business, by enabling it to fully reward you for the time, effort and sacrifices you have made to build it. To learn more, visit: https://www.mytruenorth.biz/about-us/our-mission/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

An insight into the role and profession of coaching Today's guest works with female coaches to help grow their online coaching business with confidence, find their self-belief and dissolve old, unhelpful patterns of thinking and feeling to overcome fears and beat imposter syndrome. I've known Teresa for a number of years now, initially through our work as NLP practitioners, and subsequently as a coach.  With a background in PR and publishing, in May 2019, she spotted a niche for a high quality info-torial magazine specifically for the coaching industry, and launched COACH. Which has proven to be a hit, and must read for those in the industry. Teresa kindly invited me to be interviewed for the magazine in 2020 to discuss Mental Health and the importance of speaking out.  And more recently, I was invited back to be interviewed again on the subject of Ethics in Coaching.  Teresa has previously won Bedfordshire Business Woman of the Year, and is a Certified Coach, NLP Practitioner and MHFA (England). She is also Founder of COACH Magazine and host of COACH Podcast, created to support the (currently) unregulated industry and to showcase professional coaches and champion accredited coach training and courses.  In this episode, we took a dive into the world of coaching as we see it today, and shared some insights as to what Teresa does, who she works with, and where we think the coaching industry is heading. You can find out more about Teresa by visiting her profile on LinkedIn. Brought to you, courtesy of My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

Who is the most important person in your life? Most parents tell me it's their kids. Those without children, remark it's their partner, parents or pet! And yet far fewer (and I've asked this question to literally hundreds of people) will respond with a resounding me. So why is that? Why are we so focussed on others?  of being needed, wanted, on being of service that we pay such little attention to ourselves? So let me ask you another question: What would they do, if you weren't here? Who would look after you?  Do all the things you do?  Manage your business, if you were unable to work? In this episode, I got to 'hang out' with Jimmy Creighton - A young, fit, sports fanatic whose got an infectious passion for helping people live healthier, safer and longer by having private medical insurance.  Health insurance is designed to cover some or all of the costs of private healthcare, from consultations with diagnostic scans and tests through to treatment. Having a health insurance policy gives you peace of mind that you or a family member will have access to the very best treatment at a time and place that is convenient to you. Health insurance, or private medical insurance (PMI) as it is sometimes known, may be provided by a company to their employees or it can be purchased on an individual or family basis. Whats wrong with the NHS? In theory, nothing.  We've got a world class National Health Service, that we have access to. However, demand for hospital treatment outstripping capacity even before COVID-19, it is no surprise that the demands of delivering care during a pandemic have led to significant backlogs and longer waits for patients. How bad is the problem? High waits for treatment are not new. Prior to the pandemic in February 2020 there were already 4.43 million people on a waiting list for care. At the beginning of the pandemic, the combination of suspension of non-urgent services and changes to individuals’ behaviour meant that the number of people joining the waiting list initially dropped. However, this has since been rising - and despite some improvements earlier in the year, waiting times remain far higher than pre-COVID - At the time of recording this,  over 6.6 million people waiting for treatment 2.41 million patients waiting over 18 weeks for treatment 331,623 patients waiting over one year for treatment 13 times the number waiting over a year in May 2020 But this really is, just the tip of the iceberg The hidden backlog consists of patients who require care but have either not yet presented, or who have had referrals cancelled due to the impact of Covid-19 on the NHS; patients who, in normal times, would have been referred for treatment, received elective care and attended outpatient appointments, but who for a number of reasons relating to the pandemic have not yet found their way into the health system. So whats the answer? WPA are a specialist UK not-for-profit health insurer offering award-winning health insurance solutions to individuals, families and companies of all sizes. Jimmy can be found on LinkedIn, and welcomes listeners to connect with him, and book a complimentary call to answer your questions and determine if and how best he can be of service.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

I'm more than a little concerned about the sabotage I'm witnessing every day in your business! I'm not talking about the intentional damage caused by hooligans, or those who have a set agenda to ruin you.  No, I'm talking about the unintentional damage being caused by you and everyone associated with your business by failing to spot the opportunities to create WOW moments for every client, customer, connection and supplier! Today, we are uncovering the distinct lack of Customer Experience, and the need to appoint a VXO champion within your business! Without customers you do not have a business; repeating custom is the backbone of most businesses. Repeating custom is either different customers buying the same product or the same customer buying the same product or the same customer buying different product offers in your business. For repeating custom: your business needs to develop and maintain good customer relationships and satisfy the needs of the customer, developing loyalty from your customers. Customers make it possible for businesses to exist and grow. The cost of apathy It is estimated that it costs five times more to win a new customer than it does to keep an existing customer. If your business does not look after your customers and they look elsewhere, it will not only cost your business five times as must to attract a replacement customer but your business has lost the lifetime value of the departing customer. Loss of customer focus is commercial suicide.  6 reasons why businesses lose customers: Losing Customer Focus. Not investing the time and money to hire and train efficient and professional service providers. Taking a One-Size-Fits-All Approach. Today’s customer base is far more complex and diverse with specific preferences and needs… Failing to Allow Front-Line Problem Resolution. Empowered to handle instances in which the traditional approach or policy does not work. Using a Situational Approach to Service. Offering customer incentives to stimulate short-term sales goals without tying it to a long-term effort to market products and services in a manner that will encourage continued customer loyalty. Forgetting to Measure Service Levels. You must regularly gauge how well your service initiatives are doing. Ignoring Your Service Providers. Give opportunities to be involved in decision-making and discussions about issues that impact them and their customers personally.  What is the Solution?  Businesses that focus on their customers consistently outperform their competition. Customers make it possible for businesses to exist and grow. Make your customer the centre of your business:  Analyse your customers and understand their similarities and differences to segment them with care. Create offers that will develop a long-term relationship and satisfy the differing needs of each segment. Create opportunities to exchange information with your customer. The core of not just customer focuses in business but in business.  Is to understand we are all customers of each other.  And to remain PEOPLE-centric, with an of service attitude, not selling yourself as a service. And to understand the customer and their expectations and consistently deliver an outstanding customer experience. To learn more, visit our online client portal, and (after registering for free) access the WINNING TEAM resources within the QM Stores --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

As soon as you mention Heavy Wreight Boxing, you automatically think of Mohammed Ali, Tyson, Rocky, and Geroge Forman. You think of the ring, the gloves, the stamina and the pain they all go through to achieve such an incredible achievement. Well, perhaps one name that doesn't automatically spring to mind, in this arena is Kamlesh Rajput. But, as you'll hear from this interview: Kamlesh has also earned the right to this title, by boxing well above his weight EVERY SINGLE day, and having an unbeaten title! Kamlesh has been a client of My TrueNORTH for a little over four years through our Explorer Mastermind programme, where amongst others he has significantly grown his practice and won numerous national and accountancy-specific awards. We caught up over zoom to discuss the critical role a good accountant plays in helping to #ADDAZERO Sterling Finance [UK] Limited are reliable, approachable Chartered certified accountants. They are a trusted partner and advisor to Sole Traders, Partnerships, Limited Companies, Professional Practitioners and Non-profit making entities such as Local Authorities, Charities and Social Clubs. In addition to normal accounting, taxation and corporate services, they add value to their client’s businesses & enhance their lifestyles by providing a full range of advice & services. Their promise to clients is to build a mutually respected loyal relationship by providing smart, meaningful advice with prompt and proactive services. They provide expert advice to import/export, e-commerce and software businesses as well as helping overseas investors to set up or invest in UK to access European Market. Their knowledge in finance attracts those who are looking for a business loan to set up, grow or sustain the business. And their ongoing success in helping people take out a business loans and fight off the HMRC is their secret weapon. "Success is not a privilege of the few who can afford it." Kamlesh explained, "We offer a complete suite of services to suit your needs, whatever they are." You can learn more by visiting their website: https://www.sterlingfinance.net/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

At a time when there is growing uncertainty about the rapid rise in the cost of living. Against the backdrop of a war that continues in Europe, and continued scepticism as to what the future holds.   It could be quite easy, for the Business Owner to begin reviewing where cutbacks can be made, little corner-cutting that perhaps the customer is not aware of.  (Like the reduction by 5gs of my favourite chocolate bar, whilst maintaining the same price, under the guise of being more concerned for my sugar intake than previously!!!)  I post the question: Is Ethics a luxury we simply cannot afford? We examine:  What are Ethics? What are Business Ethics? What are the 'layers' of Ethics to which we are speaking? And, I share the 7 Ethical principles of modern business and why they are so important in today's society. And the 10 ethical standards to which we operate (and for which we were awarded the title Ethical Coaching Company on the Clear Business Thinking POWER 100. You can also read my blog on this by visiting: https://www.mytruenorth.biz/about-us/our-mission/what-is-an-ethical-coaching-company/ Brought to you by My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company.  As part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income.  That collectively we can grow sufficiently, to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by generating more new roles than there are those actively seeking employment.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message

Do you know there is more that you could be doing, but something is holding you back? Are you uncertain as to what is happening in the world right now, and how this may affect you? Are you ever fearful of making a mistake, and risk losing everything you have achieved so far? Then, this episode is for YOU! Face the fear, so you can do it anyway! Whether you fear failure, success, change, or the unknown? We all face fear within our lives, and yet it is how we respond to it, that determines a positive or negative outcome!  Today, I want to get deep into the roots of FEAR.  What is it? Why is it? How is it? What to do about it! We'll uncover the pros and cons of fear. Share 4 massive questions to help you address it, and 6 stages of moving through it, and not allowing it to determine who you are or what you are capable of achieving.  I also referenced the work of Prof. Steve Peters and his book Chimp Paradox  Brought to you, by My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company. As part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO to their Business, sufficient to create more new roles, so that collectively we can eradicate unemployment, by creating more new roles, than there are those actively seeking employment! To learn more: Our mission --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message