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The Business Takeaway Podcast, Leadership & Business Advice

The Business Takeaway is for founders, business owners and leaders who want practical ideas they can use.

Ben Payne speaks with founders and operators about the decisions, failures and turning points behind real businesses — covering leadership, culture, sales, growth, careers and business exits.

New full episodes every Monday, with short practical clips throughout the week. Subscribe for honest business conversations without the polished success-story version.

Ben Payne

COVID cost Ben Bowles’s business approximately £1.5 million. Five years later, he explains why surviving that period made him more willing to take risk—and much clearer about where risk becomes reckless.Ben was the first guest on The Business Takeaway Podcast. He returns five years later as CEO of Complete Equipment Group, the business behind CEG, to look honestly at what happened after that first conversation.CEG did not return to commercial normality until late 2021, and repairing the balance sheet took years longer. Ben explains how the company rebuilt its roles, processes and systems while it was still trying to survive, why access to finance remains difficult for British SMEs, and how bringing in an experienced fractional Finance Director gave the business a genuine “speed boost”.The conversation also explores the founder’s move from doing the work to leading the people who do it. Ben shares why he still handles invoicing and credit control, how he creates time to think, what he now monitors through dashboards and KPIs, and why living through the worst-case scenario has increased his appetite for sensible risk.Ben also introduces Signals, the open-source rental-management platform he is building with AI. He explains why domain expertise matters more than simply being able to prompt a model, why the value of conventional software is changing, and why service, support and community may matter more than the code itself.They also discuss private equity in the live-events supply chain, changing employee expectations, margin pressure, robotics and why more time spent behind screens may ultimately increase demand for real-world entertainment.In this episodeThe real financial cost of COVID to CEGRebuilding a business while it is still operatingWhy a Finance Director can be an investment rather than an overheadHow founders can delegate without losing sight of cashWhy surviving a crisis changed Ben’s approach to riskThe difference between risk inside and outside your domain expertiseUsing technology to grow without adding the same level of headcountBuilding Signals with AI and an open-source modelMoving from operator to group CEOWhy consolidation can create opportunities for independentsThe future of automation and real-world entertainmentTime Codes00:00 Cold Open00:46 Ben Bowles returns five years later02:13 What has changed since the first interview?04:13 The true financial cost of COVID06:13 Rebuilding the business during the shutdown09:54 Banking, debt and financing growth13:39 Why CEG brought in a Finance Director17:49 Delegating without losing sight of cash19:16 Why business leaders need time to think21:43 How the crisis changed Ben’s approach to risk26:09 Using technology to improve efficiency28:55 Sponsor Break30:38 Why Ben started building Signos34:55 Building software with AI and industry knowledge40:49 Changing employee expectations44:46 Moving from operator to Group CEO49:24 How the live-events market has changed51:43 Private equity and the opportunity for independents53:16 Why demand matters more than the product54:21 What business and technology could look like in five years56:27 Robotics, automation and the future of work58:16 Why live entertainment could become more valuable59:07 Ben’s biggest business takeaway59:41 Rapid-fire questions01:01:46 Final thoughts01:02:14 Ben’s closing outroKey business takeawayKeep learning, but apply what you learn inside a clear commercial framework. Risk becomes more manageable when you understand the market, use the data, build the right team and know exactly what could go wrong.Guest linksBen Bowles on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benlb/CEG: https://ceg.rent/Ben’s CEG profile: https://ceg.rent/about-us/team/ben-bowlesListen to The Business Takeaway Podcast: https://thebusinesstakeawaypodcast.com/Subscribe for more honest conversations with founders and leaders about growth, leadership, difficult decisions and the lessons behind the result.Complimentary EpisodesSam Tamplin — How to Scale a Business to 100 Staff (Without Losing Control)The closest companion episode: another leader from the lighting-rental sector discussing reinvestment, systems, finance, delegation and the transition from doing the work to leading a larger company.Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6ZHRFIz3cVmVQgUkKoZMp3Cameron Magee — Why More Growth Can Make Your Business WorseA useful continuation of Ben’s points about debt, asset-backed investment, founder bottlenecks and deciding what kind of company you actually want to build. Add the current direct Spotify episode URL from the published episode page before release if it is not already in the CMS.Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5XcJNGkIJg41bGgRavi78z?si=ABCnlTU1RC2YjANt60MKkgBen Bowles - The first interview with Ben and the first full interview on the showSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1FWqEolCD3CLwOsep2LgLt?si=_iLWD_igR1OOR_7GdyOMiQ

How a £1.5m Crisis Changed His Approach to Risk - Ep 38 Ben Bowles, CEO CEG

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When should you turn down work your business needs? David March joins Ben Payne to share the business failure lessons he learnt from pricing under pressure, overtrading and eventually closing his own company.David has spent nearly 40 years in live entertainment, working across manufacturers, rental businesses and his own company. He now helps owner-led businesses through Buddy March.We talk about the business mistakes that can happen when revenue becomes the immediate priority, what happens when you move into work you don’t fully understand, and why owners need someone who can challenge their decisions.David also shares the moment he realised he had to close the doors, how that experience affected his appetite for risk, and why helping someone means more than saying “let me know if you need anything”.In this episode:The pricing decisions businesses make under pressureHow to judge whether an opportunity really fitsWhy owners need someone who can challenge their thinkingOvertrading and the closure of Projected Image DigitalThe effect of business failure on confidence and family lifeBeing honest with clients and colleaguesDavid’s Buddy Check and Clarity Brief approachThe difference between being nice and being kindTimestamps00:00 The moment David knew he had to close00:35 Introducing David March02:09 Nearly 40 years in live entertainment05:06 American and European business cultures06:46 Why some businesses survive a downturn08:16 The danger of cutting prices11:12 Building relationships before you need them12:25 What practical support really looks like13:49 Networking and learning to talk to customers16:43 Developing the next generation of talent18:44 Choosing the right business opportunities20:24 Saying yes to the wrong work22:33 The pressure of being the business owner25:51 Taking a step back: the Buddy Check28:08 Balancing price, service and relationships30:07 CEG sponsor message30:53 Supporting the podcast and listener review31:34 Having honest conversations with customers32:47 When should you walk away from a job?34:58 Overtrading and the business David had to close39:06 Accepting that the business couldn’t continue40:51 Making peace with business failure43:53 How failure changes your appetite for risk45:17 Helping an owner face difficult decisions47:24 Getting everything out of your head48:06 What not to rush into when starting a business49:39 Is more lead generation really the answer?52:10 Why winning business is getting harder56:10 The difference between being nice and being kind57:08 David’s biggest Business Takeaway58:42 Rapid-fire questions1:01:51 Final thoughts and where to find DavidGuest links:Buddy MarchDavid March on LinkedInListen next:Sam Tamplin — How to Scale a Business to 100 Staff (Without Losing Control): another live-events owner’s perspective on growth, financial discipline and difficult periods; Sam’s experience comes up in this conversation.Dave Coull — How to Build a Strong Business Culture That Actually Works: continue the discussion about honesty, trust and what leaders’ behaviour means for their people.More episodes and guest booksFollow The Business Takeaway Podcast for a new conversation every Monday.

When to Say No to Work: Business Failure Lessons - Ep 37, David March

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How do you build a memorable brand when every competitor uses the same language, imagery and promises? T. Christian Helms explains why brand differentiation starts with honest research, clear positioning and a willingness to stop trying to please everybody. This is practical business advice for founders who want to stand out without relying on gimmicks or a cosmetic rebrand.Christian is the founder of Austin-based agency Helms Workshop, whose clients have included Jack Daniel’s, Disney, Harley-Davidson and Formula 1’s Circuit of the Americas. He works with global names and smaller founder-led businesses to turn brand strategy into a genuine commercial advantage.In this episode, Ben and Christian discuss the difference between being recognised and being remembered, why copying established competitors can make a young business disappear, and how a distinctive brand can support business growth.They also examine why a rebrand cannot repair a product or customer experience that no longer delivers what the business promises.Christian tells the story behind Austin Beerworks’ seven-foot 99-pack. The idea attracted international coverage and sent people following a delivery van around Austin, but it began with a practical problem: customers were confused by the beer’s original name.They also discuss where AI genuinely helps brand teams, why it can pull businesses back towards the category average, and what Christian learned when serious illness forced him to rebuild his life and company.In this episode:How to make a business distinctive without chasing attentionWhy brand promise and operational delivery must matchHow the 99-pack turned a naming problem into international attentionWhere AI supports creativity and where human judgement still mattersWhy a smaller group of committed customers can be more valuableChapters00:00 Introduction01:08 Working with global brands and founder-led businesses01:59 Using brand as an unfair advantage06:26 Recognised versus remembered07:28 Why copying competitors is death for a brand08:26 Lateral thinking and the Apple example12:07 Why a rebrand cannot fix a broken business13:01 Building brand culture throughout a company15:11 When customer perception contradicts the founders19:14 Why customers love flawed products22:50 How brands should respond when things go wrong27:30 Audacity versus attention-seeking28:32 The story of the 99-pack of beer31:01 Making the pub joke real32:50 Why a brand does not need everybody33:35 Creativity and lateral thinking38:38 Why people love the absurd40:35 Ryanair and the limits of brand personality44:38 Where AI helps — and where it fails48:57 What digitally native creatives do differently51:16 Why the idea must come before the tool52:25 Diagnosing a broken brand54:38 Christian’s forthcoming branding book56:05 Rebuilding after serious illness59:17 Christian’s business takeaway01:00:27 Rapid-fire questionsGuest linksT. Christian HelmsHelms WorkshopHelms Workshop on InstagramComplementary episodesYour Logo Is Not Your Brand — Jason Clark: the closest follow-on conversation about trust, brand delivery and AI-driven sameness. https://open.spotify.com/episode/3VKMVgJhBwyojq6Bxuyydj?si=av1eOFIOR9Ww25Nw2Ae3NQThe Hard Truth About Building in a Niche Market — Mats Karlsson: extends Christian’s argument that a business does not need everybody. https://open.spotify.com/episode/2eIUh2ERYyJiYJ2WwKbddA?si=RIjcrVJ6R_uP4P9BHAqzGQ

How to Build a Brand People Actually Remember - Ep 36, T. Christian Helms, Helms Workshop

Sponsored recommendation:Listen to The Best 5 Minute Wine Podcast
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What happens when you’re getting results, but your team is afraid to challenge you? Kyle McDowell found out that the people around him feared him more than they respected him.Kyle had spent nearly three decades in corporate leadership. Honest feedback made him question the kind of leader he had become. He went on to develop the principles behind Begin With WE, then put them to the test while leading an organisation of around 15,000 people.In this conversation, Ben and Kyle talk about the gap between achieving results and leading people well. They get into why company values often fail to change behaviour, what happens when someone challenges a senior leader, and how you build a culture that can hold together as an organisation grows.In this episode:The feedback that changed Kyle’s approach to leadershipWhy people can fear a successful leaderWhat the 10 WEs mean in practiceWhy leaders say they welcome challenge, then struggle to accept itThe difference between measuring activity and measuring outcomesWhy culture change has to start with senior leadersThe business takeawayGood results do not automatically mean good leadership. People need to see their leaders live by the standards they expect from everyone else, and feel able to speak up when something is wrong.Chapters00:00 Kyle’s corporate career03:49 “They feared me more than they respected me”08:14 Creating the 10 WEs15:35 Why leaders struggle to be challenged17:39 Outcomes versus activity23:19 Getting an organisation to buy into change26:46 Creating culture across 15,000 people38:58 Why company values fail41:59 Can you outsource culture change?49:54 Where to start with a dysfunctional company55:27 Kyle’s ultimate leadership ruleGuest LinksKyle's current is a bestselling author, leadership expert and speaker and centres his work around the 10 WEs.Kyle McDowell — Official WebsiteKyle McDowell — LinkedInKyle McDowell — InstagramComplementary BTA EpisodesDave Coull — How to Build a Strong Business Culture That Actually WorksDave tackles company culture, values and trust from the perspective of actually running an organisation; Kyle approaches the same territory through leadership behaviours and the 10 WEs.Listen to Dave Coull on SpotifyJoshua Lifrak — They Didn't Win for 108 Years… Then Everything ChangedJoshua discusses organisational identity, culture, mindset and leadership through elite sport. It gives listeners a different setting for many of the same questions.Listen to Joshua Lifrak on SpotifySam Tamplin — How to Scale a Business to 100 StaffMaintaining behaviour and leadership standards as an organisation becomes too large for the founder/leader to personally touch everyone.Listen to Sam Tamplin on Spotify

Your Team Might Fear You More Than Respect You - Ep 35, Kyle McDowell, Begin With WE

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What happens when growing your business stops making it better? Cameron Magee started working in event production as a teenager in Arkansas before building avad3 into a national US event production company. But his most valuable lessons aren't about AV or live events — they're about scaling a business deliberately and the leadership tips, management skills and ceo insights that come from that.In this episode, Cameron explains why he doesn't believe in growth at all costs, why he'll turn down customers that no longer fit the business, and how he's learned to separate ambition from simply becoming bigger.We also explore financing growth, business debt, hiring, company culture, delegation and the difficult transition founders make from doing the work themselves to leading the people who do it.In this episode:How Cameron turned a teenage passion into a businessHow exceptional service unexpectedly opened national opportunitiesWhy avad3 could travel thousands of miles and still beat local competitors on priceCameron's approach to self-funding and business debtWhy he only uses debt to finance assets — not payrollWhy equipment and people don't need to make money independentlyHow founders become bottlenecks as businesses scaleWhy Cameron deliberately doesn't want unlimited growthHiring one employee from 135 applicantsWhy “culture is what you celebrate and tolerate”Maintaining standards when the founder isn't thereWhy constantly changing technology can hurt productivityReplacing legacy customers with better-fit workWhy Cameron sometimes sends business to competitorsCreativity versus operational efficiencyCameron's biggest business takeaway: remain a lifelong studentChapters00:00 Introduction01:32 Discovering event production05:16 Could this actually become a business?08:49 Ambition versus contentment11:12 Taking a local business national15:56 Funding business growth20:54 Making people and assets profitable23:40 Scaling delivery across America26:33 Learning world-class standards30:30 When the founder leaves the tools34:29 How big should the company become?39:16 Hiring beyond friends and family42:23 Culture, standards and accountability46:38 Technology and operational change49:30 Sustainability and long-term investment53:46 The future of the business59:41 Creativity versus bigger budgets1:01:48 Cameron's Business Takeaway1:04:51 Rapid fireGUEST LINKSCameron's current business and profile details are independently verifiable. avad3 describes itself as a nationwide event-production partner, and Cameron is publicly identified as its founder/owner.Cameron Magee — LinkedInCameron Magee on LinkedInavad3 Event Productionavad3 websiteavad3 resources / contentavad3 resourcesTheir site also has a useful connection to Cameron's service-first point: the company explicitly explains that “avad” derives from a Hebrew term meaning “to work, do, serve,” and positions service as part of the brand.COMPLEMENTARY EPISODESSam Tamplin — How to Scale a Business to 100 Staff (Without Losing Control)Same industry background, but a useful contrast in scale. Sam's episode deals directly with reinvestment, leadership, systems and keeping culture intact while growing towards 100 people.Listen to Sam Tamplin on SpotifyDave Coull — Culture Isn't Words on a WallCameron's strongest leadership section is about what happens when people don't meet your standards. Dave's episode goes deeper into culture, trust, values and managing high performers whose behaviour doesn't align with the organisation.Listen to Dave Coull on SpotifyMatt Turner — Building a Business Where People Actually Want to WorkThe natural follow-on to Cameron's discussion around transitioning from practitioner to leader and deciding what kind of organisation you actually want to build.Listen to Matt Turner on Spotify

Why More Growth Can Make Your Business Worse - Ep34, Cameron Magee, CEO avad3

Sponsored recommendation:Listen to The Best 5 Minute Wine Podcast
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You can be brilliant at your job and still have no real strategy for your career. In this episode of The Business Takeaway Podcast, Ben Payne sits down with executive coach Kim Sawyer to explore why working hard, delivering results and accepting the next promotion isn't necessarily the same as building the career you actually want. This is the true advice any business person needs to hear!Kim argues that this can become particularly dangerous for successful people because, for a long time, the system works. You perform, opportunities arrive and your career progresses.Until eventually it doesn't.Ben and Kim discuss why people become defined by their current job title, why success itself can become a career trap, how to build professional relationships before you need something from them, and why founders can struggle with their identity once they sell the business they've spent years building.Kim also explains why your career needs time and attention completely separate from your current job.His ultimate Business Takeaway:Your job serves your career. Your career serves your life.In this episodeWhy being good at your job isn't the same as managing your careerHow success and promotions can eventually trap talented peopleWhy your employer's career path may not be the right one for youHow your job title can limit the way you see your own capabilitiesWhy conventional networking often feels uncomfortableHow Kim approaches building genuine social capitalWhy founders sometimes struggle when they finally sell their businessHow to decide whether the next promotion or opportunity is actually rightWhy making dedicated time for your career mattersKim's four pillars of Career MasteryChapters01:04 — Meet Kim Sawyer01:16 — An unconventional career: military, entrepreneurship and coaching08:09 — Becoming CEO of your own career10:32 — Why modern careers are increasingly unpredictable12:28 — Why most people don't have a career strategy15:04 — How different generations think about careers18:04 — Why founders can struggle with business exits20:29 — The two-hour career challenge21:48 — The four pillars of Career Mastery25:08 — Why your job description can limit you26:27 — When success becomes the enemy28:37 — Networking versus building social capital31:27 — Why networking often feels uncomfortable33:55 — The danger of simply relying on hard work36:04 — Signs you've become stuck38:04 — Who is responsible for your career?40:19 — How to judge the next opportunity42:40 — Why good employers shouldn't fear losing good people44:38 — What limits careers most46:05 — Reclaiming control of your time48:18 — Why Career Mastery isn't traditional job-search coaching49:58 — Kim's Business Takeaway55:18 — Kim's special offer for listenersGuest linksKim Sawyer on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkimsawyer/theWealthSourcehttps://thewealthsource.com/Kim's articles and resourceshttps://thewealthsource.com/author/kim-sawyer/Kim is currently listed as President of theWealthSource and offers executive, business and career development coaching. His current profiles also verify the Houston-based practice and Career Mastery work.🎁 Business Takeaway listener offerAre you a successful executive who aspires to more and wants to have a real say in what your future looks like? Kim is offering his $300 Career Mastery Session to the first three listeners who sign up, so schedule yours today! https://calendly.com/thewealthsource”Linking episodes:Erin Teter — Why Employees Stop Telling Leaders The TruthThis is the natural employer-side continuation.Kim asks how individuals manage their careers; Erin explores what organisations need to do to develop, retain and challenge their people.Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/0XqWF841xrfMPlVeivIZoR

Being Good at Your Job Isn't a Career Strategy? — Ep 33, Kim Sawyer Executive Coach

Sponsored recommendation:Listen to The Best 5 Minute Wine Podcast
Sponsored recommendation:Listen to It’s Gonna Be Fine
What really makes a strong brand — and why do so many businesses still confuse branding with a logo? This week, Ben speaks with Jason Clark, Chief Marketing Officer at Tectonic and former owner of VIA Studio, about brand strategy, customer trust, AI in marketing and what makes businesses genuinely different.Jason explains why rebrands driven by ego or trends often fail, why good branding has to connect back to the commercial fundamentals of the business, and why AI can make marketing faster while also making companies look increasingly similar.They also discuss Jason’s journey from agency founder to CMO, why he now turns down projects even when the money is attractive, and the surprising finding that almost 75% of his agency’s new client leads came through referrals.In this episode:Why your logo is not your brandWhat brand strategy actually meansWhy some rebrands failHow AI is changing marketingWhy AI can make businesses look more alikeWhen to walk away from the wrong clientWhy referrals remain such a powerful growth channelJason’s biggest lesson after more than 20 years in businessTIMECODED CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction00:25 Jason’s journey from agency founder to CMO01:26 Why Jason began planning the sale years in advance02:28 The emotional reality of selling a 20-year business03:30 Structuring a five-year earnout04:30 Protecting the team and culture after acquisition05:32 Escaping the exhausting responsibilities of ownership06:39 Why successful founders often end up doing work they dislike07:21 VIA Studio’s work in branding, marketing and web development08:49 How many CEOs truly understand branding?10:21 A brand is what people perceive11:42 The difference between a logo and brand strategy14:22 Why internal branding can matter more than external branding15:43 The warning signs that a business needs a rebrand17:27 Why rebrands driven by ego or trends fail19:23 Rebranding without changing the logo22:32 Should a rebrand immediately increase revenue?24:31 Why brand strategy must connect to the bottom line26:06 How AI is changing branding and creative work26:46 Why AI naturally produces average work28:47 Authenticity, AI content and customer trust30:13 Why AI-generated websites can undermine credibility31:40 How Jason used AI to accelerate the sales process33:44 How brand discovery is changing35:00 Being discovered through large language models36:35 Why nearly 75% of new business came from referrals38:03 The fundamentals matter more than the latest trend39:20 Building a brand system that can last ten years41:43 Why every brand now needs multiple logo formats43:18 Branding commercial, nonprofit and government organisations46:43 Why brand strategy must come before website development48:47 The projects Jason now refuses to accept50:36 Where a business owner should begin before rebranding51:31 Jason’s greatest business takeaway52:38 Rapid-fire questionsEnjoyed this conversation? Listen next:The Hard Truth About Building in a Niche Market — Mats KarlssonBranding, reputation and the relationships that build a resilient business.LinksJason Clark — LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjasonclark/VIA Studio: https://via.studio/Jason’s VIA Studio profile/articles: https://via.studio/author/jason-clarkTectonic: https://www.teamtectonic.com/VIA Studio at Tectonic: https://www.teamtectonic.com/divisions/via-studioJason is currently listed as Chief Marketing Officer at Tectonic and former owner of VIA Studio

Your Logo Is Not Your Brand: Trust, AI and the Marketing Mistakes Businesses Make - Ep 32, Jason Clark CMO Tectonic

Most people start a business because they want greater freedom, more control over their time and the opportunity to build a better life. But for many founders, the opposite happens. They lack finding the best business advice or business mentorship to really go forward.The business becomes increasingly dependent on them. Every important decision reaches their desk, customers expect their personal involvement and the team waits for their approval. The founder becomes trapped inside the company they created and they have many leadership challenges.In this episode, Ben speaks with business coach and author Peter Boolkah about why so many entrepreneurs become caught in what Peter calls the hamster wheel trap.Peter explains how founder dependency begins from the first day of a business, when one person takes responsibility for sales, marketing, finance, delivery and every operational decision. Unless that behaviour changes, the business continues to depend on the founder as it grows.They also discuss the personal cost of long-term entrepreneurial pressure, the danger of building a company without an exit plan and why a profitable business is not automatically a valuable or sellable business.Peter argues that business owners must deliberately create systems, develop leaders and transfer their knowledge if they want the company to operate without them.The conversation also explores why founders lose their original sense of purpose, how business education affects long-term success and why growth should never be pursued simply because somebody else appears to have a bigger company.In This Episode• Why businesses can take away the freedom they were meant to create• What Peter means by the hamster wheel trap• Why founders unconsciously create dependency• The hidden psychological pressure experienced by business owners• Why hard work cannot compensate for a lack of business knowledge• How systems and processes make effective delegation possible• Why some business owners need to close before they can rebuild• The difference between a profitable and exit-ready business• How to prepare a company to operate without its founder• Why founders should define their own version of success• The three characteristics Peter sees in strong leadersKey Business TakeawayBuild a business that gives you choices.That means creating systems, developing capable leaders and removing yourself as the essential point through which every decision must pass.A business that can work without you gives you the freedom to grow it, sell it, pass it on—or simply enjoy the life it was originally meant to create.00:00 Introduction00:22 Peter Boolkah’s background00:50 Why Peter wrote Your Business Sucks02:50 Why the book needed a provocative title04:12 Can running a business become less stressful?07:20 The social media illusion of entrepreneurship08:55 Why founders cannot always share their pressure10:36 Why business owners feel trapped12:39 Understanding the hamster wheel trap15:00 When your business owns you16:43 The tragedy of an unplanned business exit19:02 How many founders are trapped?20:53 Business education in a rapidly changing world23:16 Why founders make themselves indispensable24:37 The founder control cycle26:19 The most common weakness Peter sees27:43 Why founders stop dreaming29:39 When a business is too far gone30:44 Building a profitable versus exit-ready business31:31 Why the exit must work without the founder32:40 Preparing the leadership team for a sale34:36 What a founder-independent business looks like35:34 Defining your own version of success37:22 Installing a team and learning to let go38:14 What happens when founders regain their freedom40:11 The first step out of the hamster wheel41:17 Feedback, coaching and outside perspective42:01 The characteristics of great founders42:29 Rapid-fire questionsLink With PeterPeter BoolkahWebsite: boolkah.comLinkedIn: Peter Boolkah on LinkedInPeter’s book — Your Business Sucks: Build a Business That Works Without Destroying Your LifeAmazon UK: Buy Your Business Sucks on AmazonSimilar Episodes:Steve BodenRecommended because the conversation explores building a company deliberately, strengthening its foundations and making strategic decisions rather than pursuing unmanaged growth.Erin TeterRelevant to Peter’s point that founder independence requires the right people, the right behaviours and a culture capable of operating without constant intervention.

Your Business Sucks: Escape the Hamster Wheel Before It Breaks You - Ep 31, Peter Boolkah Scaling Up Business Coach

Artificial intelligence promises faster delivery, lower costs and extraordinary productivity. But what happens when the people expected to use it do not trust it, do not understand it or believe it could ultimately replace them?In this episode of The Business Takeaway Podcast, Ben sits down with Ricardo Arcia, founder and CEO of Teravision Technologies and author of The Cognitive Leader.Ricardo founded Teravision more than 20 years ago and has grown the organisation into an international software business. Over the past two years, he has led an extensive AI transformation involving real engineering teams, live client projects and repeated experimentation.The results challenged some of the biggest assumptions surrounding AI adoption.Ricardo explains why isolated AI tools do not automatically create organisation-wide productivity, why experienced employees can be among the most resistant to change and why successful AI transformation depends more on leadership than technology.They also explore how software teams are becoming smaller, why leaders must give employees permission to become temporarily slower and why every technology leader Ricardo interviewed believed their organisation was already behind.This episode is essential listening for CEOs, CTOs, engineering leaders and business owners trying to understand how artificial intelligence will change teams, skills and organisational structures.IN THIS EPISODE• Why Ricardo began investigating AI-driven software development• What happened when three engineering teams were challenged to compress a seven-month project into eight weeks• Why junior engineers embraced AI but initially produced weaker results• Why experienced engineers were more sceptical• The difference between isolated acceleration and compound productivity• Why AI transformation is a people and leadership challenge• What Ricardo means by “cognitive leadership”• Why established companies should not expect instant 10x productivity• Whether AI will reduce the number of software engineering jobs• Why adaptability can become more valuable than existing technical expertise• How leaders can provide psychological safety during AI transformation• Why Ricardo gave engineers permission to introduce technical debt• Why teams need permission to become slower before becoming faster• How AI is changing the structure of software development teams• What Ricardo discovered after interviewing more than 150 technology leaders• Why every CTO believes they are behind• How companies can move beyond using ChatGPT for emails• Why AI implementation should be managed through 90-day loops• The role of a “Team Zero” in testing and transferring AI practices• Why coaching is essential to sustainable adoption• Which software roles could become more valuable• How AI could dramatically accelerate global innovationKEY TAKEAWAYSAI transformation is a leadership challengeThe technology may be new, but the greatest barriers are human. Leaders must manage fear, uncertainty, professional identity and resistance—not simply distribute new software.Tools do not create transformationIndividual employees may complete certain tasks more quickly, but those gains will remain isolated unless the entire process is redesigned around them.Productivity may fall before it risesTeams need time to learn, experiment and develop confidence. Expecting immediate gains can cause people to return to familiar working methods before new behaviours take hold.Adaptability is becoming a core hiring criterionTechnical expertise remains important, but an employee who refuses to engage with new technology risks becoming less valuable than somebody with fewer existing skills and a stronger capacity to learn.Leaders must become comfortable with uncertaintyAI systems and capabilities are developing too quickly for leaders to wait until every answer is known. The role of leadership is increasingly to create systems for experimentation, measurement and adaptation.Think in 90-day loopsRather than attempting to produce a fixed multi-year AI strategy, organisations should establish measurable 90-day objectives, test them, capture the learning and update their approach.TIMECODES00:16 — Ricardo’s background and the creation of Teravision Technologies02:05 — The experiment that began Teravision’s AI transformation03:00 — Junior enthusiasm versus senior engineering experience04:20 — Why isolated productivity improvements failed to compound05:07 — The AI tools that started the journey06:31 — Guardrails, risk and fears surrounding autonomous AI08:45 — What it means to become a cognitive leader09:50 — Why AI transformation is a people problem11:39 — The biggest misconception CEOs have about AI productivity13:10 — Will AI replace software engineers?15:00 — Helping employees work through fear and uncertainty16:30 — “AI will not replace you, but somebody using it might”17:15 — How a ten-person software team could become a four-person team19:16 — Why coaching is essential during AI adoption20:30 — Giving engineers permission to introduce technical debt21:20 — Why teams need permission to become temporarily slower23:13 — How Ricardo’s own leadership had to change24:20 — Making peace with permanent discomfort27:55 — What Ricardo learned from interviewing 150 technology leaders28:13 — Why every technology leader believes they are late29:25 — How early we really are in the AI adoption cycle31:31 — Moving beyond using ChatGPT to write emails32:41 — Why AI transformation should happen in 90-day loops34:57 — AI accuracy, architecture and the importance of context38:00 — Why product definition is becoming the new bottleneck39:10 — How software engineering roles are changing40:48 — Brilliant traditional engineer versus adaptable AI engineer42:50 — How a company should begin its AI transformation44:00 — Training teams to use a shared AI language45:00 — The “Team Zero” operating model47:00 — Coaching teams through continuous behavioural change48:18 — Which software roles could become more valuable50:30 — How AI could accelerate global innovation52:24 — Ricardo’s rapid-fire answersABOUT RICARDO ARCIARicardo Arcia is the founder and CEO of Teravision Technologies, a software development organisation working with businesses on digital products and AI-driven software transformation.He is also the author of The Cognitive Leader: How to Drive Strategic AI Transformation in Software Development, informed by hands-on experimentation inside Teravision and more than 150 interviews with CTOs, VPs of Engineering and technology leaders.Teravision TechnologiesTheCognitiveLeader.comThe Cognitive Leader newsletterThe Cognitive Leader: How to Drive Strategic AI Transformation in Software Development will be published on September 29, 2026ABOUT THE BUSINESS TAKEAWAY PODCASTThe Business Takeaway Podcast goes beyond polished success stories to uncover the decisions, failures, leadership lessons and practical takeaways behind real businesses.Each episode gives founders, leaders and business owners ideas they can apply inside their own organisations.Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.Similar episodes which might be of interest:Episode 10 - Marcel Fairbairn, the CEO and founder of GearNet Holdings, discussing the evolution of the entertainment industry, the importance of data analytics, business strategy, CEO Insights and the role of AI in transforming business practices.

AI Won’t Replace Your Team. Someone Using It Will — Ep 30, Ricardo Arcia CEO, Teravision Technologies

Can sustainability actually make your business more profitable?For many business leaders, sustainability is still seen as a cost. Something that's expensive, difficult to measure and only worth doing because regulations say you have to.Emily Coon believes that's completely wrong.As Sustainability Manager at St Austell Brewery, Emily has helped transform sustainability from a compliance exercise into a commercial advantage. In this episode of The Business Takeaway Podcast, she explains why sustainability isn't just about protecting the planet—it's about building stronger, more resilient businesses that grow for decades.From reducing waste and improving operational efficiency to strengthening supply chains and driving long-term profitability, Emily shares how sustainability can become a genuine competitive advantage for any organisation.One simple operational change alone saved the business more than £60,000 every year.Whether you're a business owner, CEO, founder, operations leader or simply interested in building a better business, this episode is packed with practical lessons that go far beyond sustainability.In this episode we discuss:• Why sustainability should be viewed as a commercial strategy, not a cost• How sustainability improves profitability and business resilience• Building a sustainability strategy that people actually buy into• Why culture beats policy every time• The leadership question every CEO should ask• How one simple change saved over £60,000 a year• Working with suppliers to create lasting impact• Why every employee should become a sustainability leader• Creating business strategies that still work 20 years from now• Why sustainability needs a complete rebrandKey Takeaways✔ Sustainability is one of the biggest drivers of operational efficiency.✔ Businesses don't need perfect data before taking action.✔ Long-term thinking creates stronger businesses.✔ Culture creates sustainable change—not policies.✔ The companies that adapt fastest will outperform those that don't.Timecodes00:00 Introduction01:13 What does a Sustainability Manager actually do?02:23 Building sustainability into a 175-year-old business06:02 Why culture beats policy08:37 Creating a sustainability strategy from scratch10:17 Working with suppliers to reduce emissions12:50 Does sustainability actually make money?14:28 The £60,000 lesson from putting waste in the right bins16:55 Setting business KPIs that actually work20:35 What customers really think about sustainability23:39 Climate change becomes personal26:12 Creating change across 2,000 employees29:30 Why sustainability needs a rebrand35:13 Where should every business start?39:09 The leadership question every CEO should ask43:12 What governments are getting wrong47:43 Emily's biggest achievement48:58 Quick Fire QuestionsLinksSt Austell BreweryRelated EpisodesIf you enjoyed this conversation, you'll also enjoy:• Erin Teter – Why hiring for culture beats hiring for skills.

Why Sustainability Isn't Costing Businesses Money... It's Making Them Money - Ep 29 Emily Coon, St Austells Brewery

W hat does it really take to produce one of the UK's biggest pantomime businesses?In this episode of The Business Takeaway Podcast, Ben Payne sits down with Steve Boden, Joint CEO of Imagine Theatre, to explore the commercial reality behind one of Britain's oldest and most successful entertainment industries.From managing 21 simultaneous productions and pioneering digital pantomime, to navigating the financial impact of COVID and balancing creativity with commercial decisions, Steve shares the lessons every business owner, entrepreneur and leader can learn from building a thriving creative business.Whether you're interested in business growth, leadership, innovation, theatre, live events or entrepreneurship, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways that extend far beyond the stage.In this episode you'll learn:How Imagine Theatre grew into one of the UK's largest pantomime producers.Why innovation is essential—even in traditional industries.The commercial risks behind every creative decision.How digital technology transformed modern pantomime.Why empowering your team is critical as your business scales.How COVID forced the company to rethink its future.Steve Boden's leadership philosophy and biggest business takeaway.Time Codes00:00 Introduction02:15 Steve's journey into the pantomime business09:46 Growing from a small company to 21 productions11:05 Reinventing pantomime with digital technology16:45 Why digital sets changed the audience experience17:42 Taking a major commercial risk on innovation32:20 Why pantomime keeps theatres financially alive33:20 How theatres and producers work together46:02 Why great storytelling beats expensive technology47:32 Balancing creativity with commercial reality55:47 What Steve would do differently if he started again57:04 Steve's ultimate business takeawayKey TakeawaysBuild a business that is bigger than its founders.Innovation should enhance tradition, not replace it.Great products always come before expensive production values.Every creative decision needs commercial discipline.Empower talented people rather than trying to do everything yourself.Resources & Links:Imagine Theatre Official WebsiteTrafalgar Entertainment GroupPixelux (Animation Partners)Similar EpisodesStage to Success: Leadership Lessons in Resilience & Adaptability - Ep 14 Laura White, Pop-Up GlobalKeywordsBusiness Podcast, Leadership Podcast, Steve Boden, Imagine Theatre, Pantomime, Theatre Business, Entrepreneurship, Business Growth, Leadership, Creative Industries, Innovation, Commercial Strategy, Live Events, Business Owner, CEO Interview, Business Lessons, Business Takeaway Podcast.

The Business Behind Britain's Biggest Pantomimes - Ep 28 Steve Boden, Imagine Theatre

In this episode, Alex Smithies, a former professional goalkeeper turned financial planner, shares his journey from the pitch to advising athletes on life after sports. Discover how the mindset around money and career longevity in sports differs from other industries, and learn practical insights to better prepare athletes — and anyone — for financial resilience and long-term success.In this episode:Alex's background and his dream of playing for Huddersfield TownThe realities of short-term thinking in professional footballHow injuries and career uncertainties prompted Alex to start planning for his futureThe lack of financial support from clubs and leagues, and the need for early educationThe influence of peer pressure and lifestyle expectations among athletesThe importance of good financial habits from the start of a sports careerThe role of parents and mentors in supporting young athletes’ financial literacyCommon pitfalls leading to financial difficulties post-retirement, even for top playersHow clubs and associations could do more to safeguard athletes' financial futuresTips for young players entering the academies and how to enjoy football without sacrificing future securityThe mental health challenges of transitioning out of professional sportsThe unique perspective of goalkeepers in handling career and retirement, and how their mentality differsPractical advice for athletes on managing expectations and embracing life after sportsTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Alex's journey from football to financial planning02:10 - Reality check: Short-term thinking in football careers05:46 - Injury as a catalyst: Planning for life after playing08:08 - Lack of club support: The need for financial education in sports10:50 - Peer pressure and materialism among players12:56 - The emotional shock of retiring from sport14:34 - The importance of early financial habits for athletes18:13 - How clubs and leagues can improve athlete financial safety20:34 - Financial realities across different leagues and tiers23:35 - The importance of financial literacy from a young age27:00 - Traits of players who transition successfully out of sports31:42 - The call for mandatory financial education in academies36:17 - First day of retirement: Emotional and practical advice37:34 - The mindset of goalkeepers versus field players in retirement39:01 - Evolving success: From on-field achievements to personal life43:11 - One ultimate lesson from Alex’s career and lifeResources & Links:

Why Footballers Go Broke: The Money Lessons Most Players Learn Too Late - Ep 27 Alex Smithies, Brooks Sport

How do you build a strong company culture that actually works? Dave Coull explores trust, leadership, company values and maintaining culture as a business grows. Company culture is easy to talk about. Putting some values on the wall, adding them to the website and telling people what the business stands for is the simple part. The much harder challenge is making sure those values are reflected in how people actually behave, how leaders make decisions and what employees experience every day.In this episode of The Business Takeaway, Dave Coull, CEO of Stage Electrics Group, joins Ben Payne to explore what it really takes to build and maintain a strong company culture.Dave shares his experience of leading an established business through growth and change, including the challenge of bringing different teams together through acquisitions. They discuss why trust and transparency matter, how leaders influence workplace culture through their own behaviour and why listening to employees becomes increasingly important as an organisation grows.The conversation also explores a problem many growing businesses eventually encounter: the culture that developed naturally when the company was smaller doesn't necessarily survive growth. More people, multiple locations, acquisitions and changing leadership structures can all affect how an organisation feels to the people working inside it.For CEOs, founders, business owners and managers, this is a practical conversation about organisational culture without the slogans. It's about what leaders actually do to build trust, create employee engagement and make company values mean something.In this episode, you'll discover:How to build a strong company culture through behaviour rather than wordsWhy trust and transparency are fundamental to effective leadershipHow leaders influence workplace culture every dayWhat happens to company culture as a business scalesHow acquisitions and organisational change affect established teamsWhy listening to employees mattersHow company values can influence real business decisionsThe Business TakeawayCompany culture isn't what you write on the wall. It's what your people experience when they come to work. As a business grows, maintaining that culture requires leaders to keep listening, communicating and demonstrating through their own behaviour what the organisation actually stands for.Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome and episode overview02:16 - The core role of culture in organisational success06:28 - Transitioning into the events and technology sector09:22 - Building trust through humility and authenticity12:44 - Leading technical teams without needing to be a technical expert15:45 - Communicating effectively during COVID-19 and remote onboarding19:43 - Protecting and evolving existing company culture during acquisitions23:45 - Defining core values with employee input and ongoing reinforcement28:58 - Handling cultural integration of new business units32:04 - The impact of culture on employee engagement and productiveness36:33 - The importance of continuous communication and transparency39:39 - Maintaining culture across growing and distributed teams44:11 - Managing high performers with misaligned values48:41 - Major mistakes leaders make in shaping company culture51:11 - Practical steps for honest and transparent leadership55:20 - Creating an environment where challenging leadership is safe and encouraged58:43 - Balancing honesty and confidentiality in leadership communication62:24 - Building a legacy based on developing people and strong culture65:49 - Final thoughts: leadership as a team enabler and culture creator66:05 - Rapid-fire: Apple or Android?66:17 - Preferred social media platform?66:23 - City or beach getaway?67:01 - Essential item for travel?67:08 - Morning or night person?67:30 - Build new or fix what's broken?67:50 - Growth or profitability?68:19 - Best advice ignored?68:45 - The drink Dave would choose at a pub?Resources & Links:Stage Electrics GroupDave Coull personal websiteIf you enjoyed this episode check out Matt Turners episode on our showThis episode offers actionable leadership principles rooted in decades of experience—timeless lessons for anyone committed to building thriving, resilient organisations.

How to Build a Strong Business Culture That Actually Works - Ep 26, Dave Coull CEO Stage Electrics Group

In this episode, Ryan Metcalfe, founder and CEO of Preevue, shares candid insights on the evolution of digital twins, the significance of failure, and how technology is reshaping theatre and entertainment industries. His journey demonstrates how strategic engineering, embracing errors, and an eye for innovation can disrupt even the most traditional sectors. This is a true lesson in business disruption!Key Takeaways:The importance of viewing failure as a learning tool; Ryan emphasises that having one spectacular failure is a sign of pushing boundaries enough.How the company’s early mistakes, like product failures, provided critical lessons that drove growth and innovation.The challenge and reward of managing multiple roles—bridging the arts and technology with dynamic sector shifts.The evolution of theatre visualisation from rudimentary models to highly accurate digital twins, transforming staging and set design.How technology like laser scanning and 3D modeling offers unprecedented accuracy, making visualisation integral rather than supplementary.The long, patient process of integrating visualisation tech with large venues, exemplified by collaborations with ATG and Moulin Rouge.Ryan’s insight into the cultural gap between theatre’s artistic drives and the tech industry’s efficiency focus.Practical advice: move quickly with minimal viable products—test, learn, and adapt before overplanning.Future visions for production visualisation becoming a formalized, industry-standard role, supported by comprehensive data and workflow integration.Timestamps:00:00 - Ryan reacts to a major product failure and values lessons learned02:20 - Challenges of managing diverse roles across theatre and media04:10 - Creativity meets sales: blending art with commercial goals in entertainment06:00 - Evolution of visualisation in theatre and how digital twins are transforming productions08:50 - Breaking the misconception of visualization as a gimmick in arts projects12:00 - How detailed laser scanning creates accurate digital models for ticketing and design15:30 - The rise of AI and emerging technologies, and their impact on the industry18:00 - The importance of rapid testing and iterative development in tech adoption20:30 - Ryan’s early entrepreneurial start at 18 and the importance of perseverance22:00 - Building credibility: from small gigs to working on Harry Potter’s Broadway production25:00 - The long timeline to prove new tech to industry giants like ATG29:00 - The future of production visualizers and the formalization of this industry role33:00 - Handling technological resistance and pushing the art forward with digital tools36:40 - Innovation in venue data collection through COVID scans and the growth of ticketing tech40:00 - The strategic approach to AI, balancing risks and opportunities in visualisation43:00 - Lessons learned from running a business without prior experience or formal training45:00 - The importance of being a jack-of-all-trades and building resilient teams46:30 - Ryan’s reflections on leadership and the ongoing responsibility of founding and running a businessResources & Links:PreevueConnect with Ryan MetcalfeLinkedInThis episode is a masterclass in how a creative industry embraces technology, overcomes tradition, and pushes boundaries—both artistic and entrepreneurial. Ryan’s story underscores that innovation often starts with a simple idea, fueled by a willingness to fail, learn, and adapt.

The Founder Changing How Theatres Sell Seats - Ep 25, Ryan Metcalfe CEO Preevue

In this episode, Mats Karlsson shares his journey from starting in stage lighting to developing innovative power distribution systems, navigating supply chain challenges, and the importance of brand and relationships in the entertainment tech industry. His experience highlights how resilience and strategic pivots can propel growth even during turbulent times and how any business in a small market can growKey TopicsMats’s transition from music to stage lighting and product developmentThe evolution of stage lighting technology and industry pioneersLessons learned from past ventures, including successes and failuresHow COVID-19 reshaped business strategies and supply chain managementThe role of branding, quality, and personal reputation in a niche industryFuture opportunities in LED, theatrical, and virtual production marketsThe impact of global markets, regulatory environments, and technological innovationPractical advice for startups: market fit, patience, and building strong distributor relationshipsLeaders’ personal growth: shifting from operational to strategic focusTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Mats and his diverse industry background02:14 - The development of innovative discharge lamps and product successes04:33 - Experiences negotiating with giants like PRG and lessons learned06:28 - How industry pioneers like Rusty Bruchet shaped the lighting industry07:44 - The transition from traditional to LED and the rise of new markets11:09 - Launching Station Marts: From basement projects to international sales14:17 - Navigating post-COVID challenges and decision-making in turbulent times16:29 - The importance of understanding electrical systems globally19:24 - How power distribution is vital for LED and video in modern productions21:35 - Opportunities and challenges in North American and global markets23:28 - The resilience built during COVID and strategic pivots in product offerings30:38 - The significance of branding, appearance, and professionalism in industry reputation32:39 - Future trends: virtual studios, AI, and technological advancements in the industry37:30 - The importance of face-to-face relationships and industry networking40:50 - Personal growth and leadership evolution over a decade44:01 - The importance of communication, respect, and reputation in leadership48:45 - Core lessons: quality, patience, and the value of strong distributor networks54:49 - Industry professionalism and the importance of branding and presentation58:10 - Reflection: What Mats would do differently if starting today59:34 - Final insights: market understanding, persistence, and the power of relationshipsResources & Links:Stage Smarts Power DistributionConnect with Mats Karlsson:LinkedInWant to listen to a similar episode - check out Sam Tamplins Episode here!The journey of Stage Smarts exemplifies how innovative thinking, strategic branding, and relationship-building can build a resilient global enterprise in the entertainment industry.

The Hard Truth About Building in a Niche Market - Ep 24 Mats Karlsson CEO Stage Smarts

In this episode of the Business Takeaway podcast, Erin Teter, a seasoned fractional CHRO, shares invaluable insights on how HR can be a strategic partner in scaling and managing modern businesses, guiding and helping leadership especially in the era of remote work and rapid growth. Her experience across private equity, tech, and startups offers a fresh perspective on the evolution of HR's role beyond compliance to true business impact.Key topics:How HR is often misunderstood as merely enforcement, versus a strategic growth partnerRecognizing early signs when HR or management cracks begin to form during scalingThe importance of proactive talent management, including behavioral interviewing and scorecardsManaging HR challenges unique to smaller vs. larger organizationsThe impact of remote and hybrid work on internal communications and cultureThe evolving role of AI in HR processes and decision-makingPractical steps for founders and leaders to address urgent people issuesCultivating a purpose-driven workforce without necessarily promoting everyone into management rolesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Erin Teter and her HR journey02:20 - Common misconceptions about HR roles in business04:15 - Strategic HR and its influence on business growth06:42 - Signs of HR and management issues during rapid scaling08:54 - The significance of internal communication and culture11:00 - When and how HR policies should be implemented in small startups13:37 - Structuring compensation and compliance considerations at scale15:50 - Management cracks that appear as businesses grow17:23 - Handling career plateauing and strengths-based development20:07 - The biggest hiring mistakes in today’s competitive environment22:40 - Using behavioral questions and scorecards effectively25:21 - Managing wrong hires and quick termination strategies28:35 - Hiring differences in private equity-backed versus small startups32:33 - The changing landscape of job loyalty and retention35:45 - Providing growth and challenge in startup environments38:02 - HR’s role in remote and hybrid team management41:23 - Building emotional connections in dispersed teams44:51 - Recognizing and acting on HR blind spots47:17 - HR’s balancing act: protecting the business vs. supporting employees50:12 - The influence of AI on HR functions and decision-making54:45 - Initial steps for founders facing big people challenges58:28 - Erin's one golden rule for business success: perseverance and resilienceConnect with Erin Teter:LinkedInCompany WebsiteThis episode provides a compelling look at why HR is a pivotal element not just for compliance, but for defining company culture, scaling successfully, and building resilient teams in the modern era. Whether you're in small startups or large scale-ups, Erin’s insights challenge traditional views and equip leaders to think differently about their people strategies.

Why Employees Stop Telling Leaders The Truth - Ep 23 Erin Teter, CEO Teter People Consulting

In this episode, we explore how principles from professional sports, especially baseball, can transform business culture and individual mindset. Joshua Lifrak shares insights from his decades of experience in sport psychology, illustrating how mental resilience, defining organisational identity, strong leadership skills, leadership development and daily habits can lead to consistent success.Key Topics:The evolution of mental skills training in sports over the past 20 yearsHow defining organisational identity (like "champion first") shapes team cultureThe importance of relationship-building before implementing changePractical strategies for resetting mindset after setbacks (“Miles Zero”)The six-step daily process to build resilience and focusThe power of marginal gains—small, consistent improvementsTranslating athletic mental training to corporate performanceHow high-pressure environments foster key traits like belief, determination, and positivityThe value of over-communication and role clarity in team performanceTechniques for managing emotions and maintaining consistency in challenging daysTimestamps:00:00 - Introducing lessons from baseball to business leadership02:17 - How sports psychology evolved over the last 20 years03:58 - From sociology degree to mental training in sports06:45 - Building relationships before implementing mental skills09:25 - Defining your organization’s or team’s identity12:05 - The opportunity of the World Series and human development14:50 - Handling setbacks and maintaining resilience in sports15:53 - Using "Mile Zero" to reset daily performance18:38 - Belief and determination as key factors for winning teams20:48 - Celebrating success and managing victory momentum24:08 - Overcoming a curse: the mythical story of the Chicago Cubs25:18 - Differences and similarities across sports cultures28:05 - Applying sports resilience to business environments29:50 - Six steps to resilience and thriving in chaos33:30 - COVID as an accelerant for personal growth practices37:46 - Marginal gains and continuous improvement strategies41:36 - Critical elements for cultivating high-performance teams43:33 - Clarity as a cornerstone of effective teamwork44:17 - Managing emotional setbacks: stepping away and resetting48:19 - Starting small: the power of setting daily intentions49:33 - What does “Win Today” really mean?53:12 - The mindset shift for meaningful, quick transformations54:17 - How the podcast and book connect to everyday lifeResources & Links:Win Today by Joshua Lifrak — Available at Waterstones and other retailersJoshua Lifrak - Official WebsiteConnect with Joshua Lifrak:LinkedIn

They Didn’t Win for 108 Years… Then Everything Changed - Ep 22 Joshua Lifrak, Mental Performance Coach,

In this episode, Matt Turner shares his candid journey from founding Clownfish Events to discovering new ways to lead and develop organisational culture. His insights highlight the importance of authentic leadership, self-awareness, and creating workplaces that foster joy, growth, and purpose. Whether you're scaling a team or contemplating your next move, Matt’s lessons underscore the power of intentional culture in business success. These are the leadership skills and business advice for anyone.Main Topics:The evolution of company culture from founder to growth phaseHow self-awareness influences leadership and decision-makingPractical approaches for cultivating joy and engagement in teamsThe challenge of maintaining culture during rapid expansionLessons learned about sharing the journey and seeking external helpKey Insights:Culture is a reflection of leadership; intentionality shapes the environment.Self-awareness is a core leadership skill and catalyst for personal growth.Building culture involves fun, recognizing achievements, and fostering a sense of purpose.Scaling requires adapting culture practices to larger, more diverse teams.Transparency and vulnerability can motivate teams and foster trust.External mentorship and consultancy were transformative for Matt’s growth.Balance between ambition and well-being is crucial for sustainable leadership.Leadership challenge isn’t just about business metrics but standing firm during adversity.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview00:29 - Importance of subscriptions and reviews for growth00:53 - Matt’s initial insights on leadership and culture01:05 - Reflecting on Matt’s background and journey from DJ to entrepreneur01:48 - Milestones of Clownfish Events’ growth and accolades02:14 - The decision to leave and reassess life post-business03:22 - The role of self-awareness and therapy in Matt’s transition04:00 - Managing culture while scaling from 27 to 50+ staff05:50 - Recognizing personal limits and evolving leadership style06:46 - Building a company culture rooted in fun, purpose, and joy07:35 - The importance of authenticity versus planned culture initiatives08:54 - Journaling and self-reflection as tools for leadership clarity09:53 - The pressure of scaling and radiation of founder’s identity11:16 - Robbie Williams' "Better Man" philosophy and frozen leadership at 1812:37 - Maturing as a leader and adjusting organizational expectations14:47 - Defining Matt’s culture and how it influences Clownfish15:41 - Culture measured by behavior when leaders are absent16:08 - Balancing profit with a positive workplace environment17:07 - The industry's demanding nature and the need for joy in work18:33 - Creating memories and meaningful experiences through events19:43 - The importance of fun as a core cultural pillar20:07 - Authenticity from early days shaping a positive culture21:27 - How external companies, like Octopus Energy, exemplify strong cultures22:22 - Hiring, molds, and the natural development of a positive team environment23:43 - Recognizing when culture isn’t working and adjusting dynamically25:57 - Achieving industry recognition for innovation and culture27:10 - Scaling culture in larger organizations – challenges and opportunities30:02 - The critical role of leadership alignment in large companies31:30 - Strategies for fostering connectedness in big organizations33:52 - Humans’ tribal nature and the importance of shared purpose36:44 - Success stories of companies that prioritize culture intentionally37:34 - Building culture through thoughtful hiring and engagement practices41:39 - The ongoing evolution of organizational culture, especially post-pandemic43:16 - Lessons from life’s hardships and maintaining authenticity46:15 - Growing a business into maturity and adapting to life stages48:18 - How team members grow and leave a lasting legacy50:03 - Reflections on sharing the journey openly and embracing external expertise54:03 - Core leadership lesson: resilience during challenge and controversy55:44 - The importance of sticking through tough times for growth58:44 - The balance of innovation versus continuous improvement59:35 - Challenging the status quo as a growth imperative60:08 - Matt’s favorite personal refreshment: Coke Zero with lemon60:23 - Final thoughts and gratitudeResources & Links:Clownfish EventsMatt Turner WebsiteSubscribe to Matt's YouTube: youtube.com/@MattClownfish?sub_confirmation=1Follow Matt on LinkedIn here: linkedin.com/in/matt-turner-b5754330

Building a Business Where People Actually Want to Work - Ep 21 Matt Turner, Founder Clownfish Events

In this episode, Tom Chapman shares his inspiring journey from a hairdresser to mental health advocate, highlighting how everyday conversations—especially in workplaces—can significantly impact mental well-being. Discover practical insights into fostering supportive environments, recognising early signs of struggle, and breaking down the stigma around mental health. This isn't about business strategy. This is about something that we should all be doing especially in the work place as part of the leadership of our businesses. Tom’s personal story of loss and turning it into action through the Lions Barber CollectiveThe unique position of barbers and hairdressers as trusted social "confidants"The importance of early intervention and destigmatising mental health conversationsCreating practical, non-clinical training programs for frontline community workersThe value of informal settings like barbershops for men to open upThe challenges and opportunities of workplace mental health initiativesThe impact of cultural norms and societal perceptions on men's mental healthHow leadership visibility and storytelling can change organisational cultureThe significance of human touch and face-to-face interaction in mental wellnessPractical advice for listeners on how to approach conversations about mental healthBusiness advice how you can implement good work place practice00:00 - Introduction: Tom Chapman’s journey from barbering to mental health advocate02:20 - The moment that changed everything: learning about suicide and its ripple effects05:07 - Founding Lions Barber Collective and the power of community connections08:27 - Designing simple, impactful mental health training programs for diverse industries11:09 - The unique conversational space of barbershops and their significance for men13:05 - The importance of early intervention and how to recognize signs of struggle15:28 - Moving beyond traditional mental health support: alternative approaches and communities17:36 - The challenge of stigma and cultural barriers around men's mental health19:52 - The role of leadership and storytelling in shifting mental health perceptions22:08 - Societal changes influencing mental health issues, loneliness, and the value of human connection25:40 - The importance of physical touch and face-to-face interactions in a digital age28:30 - How workplace environments can better foster open conversations and early support36:26 - The impact of organizational culture and leadership in mental health initiatives38:43 - Effectiveness of peer conversations vs formal support structures40:38 - The reality of corporate mental health programs and unlocking true engagement44:48 - Culture and societal norms: the influence of different global perspectives46:43 - Practical tips for organizations to initiate meaningful mental health conversations50:01 - Personal resilience: the significance of vulnerability, honesty, and community support54:38 - The importance of perseverance and hope in mental health recovery56:08 - Taking action one day at a time: maintaining resilience amid challenges58:52 - Light-hearted closing: Tom’s favorite places and simple joys amidst life's strugglesResources & Links:Hub of Hope - Mental Health Support DirectoryMyPickle.org - Community & Support ResourcesTom Chapman - Lions Barber CollectiveHere to talk TrainingThe Five Steps to Wellbeing

The Barber Who’s Saving Lives One Conversation at a Time - Ep 20 Tom Chapman, MD Hear to Talk Training

In this episode, Derek Fredrickson, founder and CEO of The CEO Solution, dives deep into the strategic role of fractional CEOs and COOs during scaling. Discover what traits to look for in leadership teams, how to overcome common scaling pitfalls, and the mindset shifts needed for sustainable growth. Derek provides true day to day Business advice, and the leadership challenges that go with that.Main topics:The strategic function of fractional CEOs and COOs in scaling companies.Key traits and profiles of effective founders and operators.Overcoming resistance to change and implementing accountability structures.The importance of KPIs, metrics, and data-driven decision-making.How to transition from founder-led to team-led operational models.Recognising the signs of burnout and safeguarding leadership resilience.In this episode:Derek shares his journey from operator to fractional CEO provider, helping companies reach multiple seven and eight figures.The significance of understanding and defining a company's North Star and growth objectives.Practical insights on assessing and realigning the leadership team for accountability.Strategies to shift leaders' mindsets from doing to leading and delegating.The common bottlenecks at different growth stages, especially past 10-20 million in revenue.Tips on fostering a culture of ownership and trust through KPIs and structured meetings.The mental models of risk-taking, stability, and the delicate balance of scaling.The vital role of financial literacy and opening financial data for strategic clarity.Practical frameworks for leadership, team, and operational alignment.Timestamps:00:00 - The role of fractional CEOs and COOs in scaling companies02:12 - What to look for day one as a fractional CEO03:38 - Defining the North Star and growth objectives04:50 - Uncovering underlying business issues and resistance points05:47 - Assessing founder involvement and operational gaps06:50 - Common traits of high-growth entrepreneurs07:13 - The differences between entrepreneurs and operational leaders08:03 - Transforming founder mindset from doer to strategist09:24 - Signs that the CEO is the bottleneck10:49 - Profile of effective COO traits11:30 - The yin and yang of CEO and COO profiles12:27 - Risk appetite versus stabilization in leadership13:25 - Cultivating execution without babysitting14:50 - Building structured systems and SOPs for scaling15:41 - Overcoming founders’ resistance to process change17:00 - When full-time leadership replaces fractional support18:30 - Success metrics for scaling and operational efficiency19:30 - The importance of team buy-in during transformation20:32 - How leadership teams benefit from accountability and KPIs22:48 - Implementing effective team accountability frameworks25:55 - Striking the right balance with KPIs and metrics26:34 - The "smoke signals" that indicate health of the business28:35 - The critical KPIs for CEO overview and departmental health30:56 - Why financial literacy is pivotal for visionary CEOs32:14 - Transitioning from doer to leader: mindset shifts34:30 - Common pitfalls in switching from founder-led to team-led models38:16 - Where the biggest scaling obstacles appear39:08 - The right scale for fractional versus full-time operational support41:16 - Recognizing when growth is not feasible43:47 - One key focus area on day one for new clients44:47 - Embracing accountability and process in leadership culture48:48 - Opening financial data to empower leaders52:37 - The paradox of CEO autonomy versus strategic oversight56:25 - The value of adding a COO or fractional leader in alleviating burnout58:02 - The indirect benefits of scaling: reclaiming time and reducing stress59:30 - A quick look at Derek’s favorite tools and tips59:37 - Rapid fire:Resources & Links:The CEO SolutionDerek Fredrickson - LinkedIn

Why Business Founders Hit the Scaling Ceiling — A COO's Fix | Episode 19 Derek Fredrickson - Founder & CEO, The COO Solution

In this episode, Brad Nelms, founder of TekX, shares his journey from a 20-year career in entertainment behind the scenes to launching his own consulting business. He discusses the real challenges and lessons learned along the way, including managing business operations, leadership challenges, adapting to industry shifts post-Covid, start up sales and leveraging technology like AI.Main Topics Covered:Brad’s background in the entertainment industry and decision to start his own consulting firmThe importance of infrastructure setup and setting realistic expectations for growthNavigating financial and legal complexities as a solo entrepreneurThe impacts of Covid-19 on supply, demand, and industry practicesLessons learned from past corporate roles applied to his new businessThe role of AI and technology tools in small business operationsManaging burnout and understanding the importance of work-life balanceBuilding reputation and trust through consistent customer relationshipsScaling challenges and strategic decisions on choosing software solutionsBrad's advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and maintaining a positive mindsetTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and Brad's background in entertainment and consulting02:04 - What motivated Brad to become an entrepreneur03:26 - Managing family life and transitioning from burnout04:49 - Brad’s business model and his vision for flexibility06:07 - Lessons from corporate roles about processes and infrastructure07:01 - Challenges with payment processors and legal considerations09:05 - Balancing work hours and discovering ADHD impacts10:16 - How ADHD awareness has influenced Brad’s business practices13:09 - The post-Covid challenges in entertainment and supply chain delays14:59 - How industry shifts have affected supply and demand cycles17:35 - Brad’s reflections on business success and revenue fluctuations18:49 - Economic uncertainties and planning for volatility23:36 - The impact of global crises on industry and personal safety23:53 - Brad’s perspective on technology, AI, and data analysis25:46 - The importance of scalable software solutions36:39 - Advice on selecting the right tools for growth40:16 - Mistakes Brad would avoid if starting over42:21 - The effects of self-employment on quality of life44:41 - Managing stress and the importance of support systems45:00 - Brad’s advice for new business owners47:25 - The value of reputation and networking49:16 - The art of listening to customers and solving real problems50:28 - Brad’s vision of success in five years52:22 - Recognizing burnout and the importance of self-awareness53:45 - Brad’s golden rule for success: reputation and time management55:09 - Rapid-fire questions: preferences on tech, travel, lifestyle, and moreResources & Links:TechX Consulting

Leadership After Burnout | Starting Consulting Without the Corporate Chaos - Ep 18, Brad Nelms, Founder TekX

Building a Lighting Business: 20 Years of Growth, Ceo insights, Leadership Skills, and business culture with Sam TamplinIn this episode, Sam Tamplin shares insights from building TSL from a small lighting rental start-up to a nearly 100-employee company with international ambitions. Discover how strategic focus, investing in people and systems, and fostering a strong culture have driven his success over two decades.Key topics:Sam's journey from van-based lighting to a global rental businessThe importance of consistency and focus in business growthThe role of reinvestment and the economic flywheel modelHow leadership and management style evolve with company sizeStrategic decisions around technology, systems, and scaling operationsBuilding a company culture based on character and valuesLessons learned from rapid growth, contractions, and industry challengesPlanning for the next decade: consolidation, international expansion, and innovationPractical tips for onboarding, risk management, and financial disciplinePersonal leadership principles: treating others well and long-term thinkingTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome and episode overview02:00 - Sam's background and early career influences05:20 - The importance of focus and specialization in long-term success08:00 - The evolution of TSL and growth milestones12:00 - Recognising the "business moment" and scaling challenges16:00 - Delegation and offloading roles in a growing business20:00 - Leadership changes as team size expands25:00 - Financial discipline and reinvestment strategies30:00 - Building systems: software, risk management, and operational tech35:00 - Recruiting, culture, and managing people effectively40:00 - Defining company values and embedding them into culture45:00 - The impact of rebranding and visual identity evolution50:00 - Balancing growth ambitions with consolidation and risk55:00 - Industry challenges, learning from past projects, and strategic flexibility60:00 - Planning for future growth: international markets and digital innovation65:00 - Leadership lessons: managing scale, culture, and the importance of character70:00 - Sam's personal golden rule and leadership philosophy75:00 - Rapid fire: favourite tools, habits, and personal preferences80:00 - Closing remarks and key takeawaysResources & Links:TSL WebsiteJeff Bezos Flywheel ModelWant to listen to another episode about the entertainment industry? Listen to Matt Turners episode hereThis episode offers actionable insights for entrepreneurs, managers, and industry professionals aiming to scale sustainably and cultivate a strong company culture.

How to Scale a Business to 100 Staff (Without Losing Control) - Episode 17, Sam Tamplin MD, TSL

Explore the unique insights from a retired firefighter and paramedic on leadership skills, decision-making, and team trust under extreme stress. Discover how core principles from emergency service leadership translate into effective business advice.In this episode:Mark shares his journey from firefighting to writing a leadership book, highlighting the transferable lessons between fire service and business.The importance of day-to-day leadership and visibility within the team for effective crisis response.How making quick decisions in high-stakes situations reveals a person’s character, and developing trust within teams.Practical strategies for building muscle memory and routines that enable teams to perform confidently in unpredictable scenarios.The role of humility, admitting mistakes, and continuous improvement with after-action reviews—a mindset equally vital in business.How emotional intelligence, especially caring for team members, boosts morale and long-term growth.Trust-building practices, avoiding micromanagement, and empowering team members for scalable leadership.Methods to support mental health and prevent burnout in high-pressure roles through peer support programs.Essential qualities to identify future leaders and the importance of valuing diverse leadership styles.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Leadership lessons from fire service applicable to business01:00 - Mark’s background in firefighting and writing "Leading Through the Heat"03:37 - The significance of day-to-day leadership presence in emergency response04:53 - Recognizing good and poor leadership traits early in a fire career07:11 - How pressure reveals character: decision-making under heat08:35 - Building team trust and decentralizing decision-making in crises10:05 - Practicing skills and building muscle memory for unpredictable scenarios12:33 - Lessons from after-action reviews: continuous learning and growth15:50 - Maintaining trust in high-stakes environments: avoiding micromanagement17:56 - How trust impacts team resilience and development20:02 - Navigating command transitions and respecting hierarchy on scene22:55 - Learning from leadership mistakes during critical incidents25:56 - Managing egos and social dynamics during emergency responses27:00 - Supporting mental health and de-escalation in trauma-heavy roles31:25 - Identifying and nurturing future leaders in high-pressure teams35:01 - Compassion in leadership: caring vs. weakness perception38:38 - Promoting people by merit, not just ambition41:36 - Lessons for business leaders about authenticity, care, and continuous learning45:07 - Supporting mental health: peer support models and recognizing stress signs46:09 - Advice to young Mark: delegation and trusting your team50:04 - A leadership “golden rule”: care about your people and treat them wellResources & Links:Leading Through the Heat by Mark AndrewInstagramNote:Practical leadership strategies from high-stress environments like fire services are highly applicable across industries. Use these insights to foster trust, decision-making agility, and mental resilience within your teams.

The Leadership Challenges You Only Learn Under Pressure - Episode 16 Mark Andrew Fire Fighter

Mastering the Art of Presentation and Authentic Communication with Salvatore Manzi. In this episode, Salvatore Manzi shares invaluable insights into public speaking, leadership communication, and how to show up authentically. Whether you're an introvert, a leader, or looking to improve your presentation skills, this episode offers practical tips to enhance your impact and connect more genuinely.Main Topics Covered:How authentic presence influences audience engagementOvercoming imposter syndrome and building confidenceThe importance of body language, attire, and authenticity in leadershipStrategies for effective storytelling and visualizing dataThe power of pauses, silence, and intentionality in presentationsNavigating social media and self-promotion as an introvertAdapting communication styles in high-stakes environmentsEmbracing mistakes and humanizing your messageThe future of communication in the age of AIPractical tips for daily communication, including in meetings and networking00:00 - Introduction: Salvatore’s background in overcoming stage fright02:45 - Connecting neuroscience with communication strategies05:22 - Common challenges leaders face with public speaking09:40 - Building relevance and passion in storytelling11:38 - Balancing introversion and authenticity in presenting14:32 - How appearance impacts credibility and authority16:15 - Navigating social media presence for introverts17:46 - Embracing imposter syndrome as growth fuel19:11 - Using silence and pauses effectively in storytelling22:15 - The delicate balance between data and storytelling24:23 - Crafting powerful messages and structuring presentations27:14 - Practical coaching on impactful pitches for large audiences28:39 - The importance of consistency in daily communication31:16 - Teaching presence and authenticity through body language33:21 - The science of emotional trust and first impressions37:32 - How to handle difficult, controversial, or high-stakes conversations41:40 - Experimenting with behavioral continua: space, silence, stillness45:36 - The power of intentionality and behavioral awareness50:27 - Silence in negotiation and presentation—when to hold back54:23 - Creating memorable takeaways with strategic pauses and repetition58:07 - The evolving role of AI in communication and how humans can stay authentic61:16 - Challenging misconceptions about polished speech versus natural humanness66:20 - Favorite drinks, travel tips, and personal preferences67:15 - Wrapping up: key lessons for aspiring leaders and speakersResources & Links:Links to include:Book: https://www.salvatoremanzi.com/clearandcompelling/LinkedIn: Salvatore J. Manzi | LinkedInHis book is to be released in October. If anyone preorders the book and Salvatore the receipt, I will send them the e-book. (Note the e-book should be ready in the next two weeks)Pre-order US: B&N C&CPre-order International: Amazon C&C

You're losing your credibility before you speak - Episode 15, Salvatore Manzi, Leadership Communication Coach

Discover how Laura White transitioned from a career on stage to leading creative solutions in the events industry, leveraging her performance background to excel in business development and project management. This episode offers insights into the value of resilience, business advice, business strategy in challenging markets creativity, and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry.Main Topics Covered:Laura White's journey from performer to business leader in entertainmentThe role of creativity and strategy in bespoke event productionCultural and regional differences in the Middle East entertainment industryThe impact of technology and trends like TikTok on live eventsBalancing mental and physical health during intense event seasonsLessons on resilience, decision-making, and saying yes or no in businessIn this episode:Laura shares her transition from a child performer to director of creative strategy at Popup GlobalHow her background in performance enhances her approach to client solutionsThe differences between UK and Middle Eastern event markets and client expectationsThe significance of emotion and storytelling in brand engagement through live entertainmentTrends such as performance-led campaigns on TikTok and the ongoing relevance of live experiences post-AI advancesStrategies for maintaining wellbeing during their busiest times, especially around the festive seasonValuable advice on saying yes to opportunities, trusting gut feelings, and the importance of resilienceTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview02:00 - Laura White’s journey from singing to industry leadership04:31 - How creativity informs bespoke event solutions07:00 - The impact of COVID-19 on the entertainment sector09:16 - Transitioning from performer to business professional11:23 - The relevance of performance skills in sales and client interactions13:40 - Learning from mistakes in the industry and the importance of persistence16:01 - Client briefs, collaboration, and creative process variations17:54 - Cultural differences in event planning across Middle East regions22:02 - Navigating cultural nuances in the Middle East entertainment industry23:16 - Challenges in live event budgeting and expectation management25:20 - Demonstrating value and ROI in live entertainment to clients26:15 - Leveraging performance and storytelling to enhance brand reputation29:30 - Trends on TikTok influencing live event strategies31:07 - The role of technology and AI in live entertainment experiences33:00 - Memorable moments in entertainment and the emotional power of live shows35:33 - Incorporating technology into live performances and shows36:02 - Common industry inquiries, like themed entertainment, and how they evolve37:28 - The scope and complexity of pop-up event schedules39:52 - Maintaining health and stamina during intensive event seasons43:23 - Planning and rehearsing for one-off shows and special events45:42 - Stress and worry points for event organizers and performers48:49 - How industry resilience carried companies through the pandemic51:05 - Advice to Laura White from 10 years ago, lessons learned53:40 - The importance of resilience, grit, and saying yes in career growth54:43 - Managing rejection and maintaining resilience in sales and performance56:25 - Key takeaway: "Say yes and figure it out later"58:00 - Final thoughts on gut feeling, values, and strategic decision-makingResources & Links:Popup Global – Official website

Stage to Success: Leadership Lessons in Resilience & Adaptability - Ep 14 Laura White, Pop-Up Global

In this episode, Jay Jacobson shares invaluable leadership skills and leadership challenges in high-stakes, emotionally charged environments like funeral homes and crisis situations, including a notable aircraft disaster. Discover how effective communication, emotional resilience, and integrity are crucial in guiding teams and families through difficult times.Main Topics:The essence of legendary leadership: building others up and fostering trustNavigating crisis situations with calmness, slowing down, and reading cuesLeadership in grief — how to diffuse tension and manage complex family dynamicsTrust and credibility: listening actively and verifying honesty in team environmentsThe importance of self-balance and continuous learning for leadership longevityEthical decision-making and maintaining integrity under pressureLessons from high-profile environments: Senate hearings and plane crashesDeveloping future leaders through mentorship and shared valuesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and overview of Jay Jacobson’s background in funeral service00:31 - Personal stories highlighting leadership in crisis and tragedy01:56 - Defining legendary leadership: focus on others' growth and morale02:44 - The significance of slowing down amid crisis and reading non-verbal cues05:11 - Handling family dynamics and conflict resolution in high-stress environments06:49 - Applying team-building skills in both funeral homes and corporate settings07:05 - Leadership example: United Flight 232 aircraft disaster response09:32 - Convergence of crisis leadership and teamwork among funeral directors10:52 - The importance of internal strength and continuous learning during crisis11:22 - Early lessons of responsibility from childhood to professional life12:49 - Modeling integrity through mentors and professional behavior14:40 - Balancing personal well-being and professional excellence15:32 - Non-verbal leadership: demonstrating respect and strength without words16:09 - Pivoting and relying on team expertise during complex crisis situations17:21 - Building trust quickly: observing honesty, eye contact, and sincerity18:43 - Lessons from boardroom debates and managing different leadership styles19:42 - The value of respectful disagreement and collaborative decision-making22:47 - The impact of Crucial Conversations and creating safe dialogue spaces24:00 - Managing situations with no good options: breaking problems into manageable tasks25:49 - Building emotional connection and storytelling with grieving families27:46 - The importance of active listening in leadership and crisis resolution29:41 - Maintaining composure and professionalism under stress31:32 - Using faith, reading, and personal development to stay balanced32:30 - Staying current: the role of continuous learning in leadership33:11 - Giving tough news compassionately but with clarity37:12 - Handling employment changes with dignity and advanced planning38:23 - Treating staff with respect and dignity in difficult leavetaking processes40:25 - The significance of genuine relationships at work and in leadership roles41:07 - Small decisions and integrity — the foundation of trust and character45:01 - Insights from Washington Senate testimony: defending integrity under pressure46:15 - Lessons on political manipulation versus genuine leadership48:11 - Balancing transparency and discretion in leadership decisions50:08 - The motivation behind Jay’s book, Lead by Legendary Example52:00 - The emotional aftermath of personal crises and their impact on leadership54:40 - The importance of work-life balance and being fully present55:08 - Advice to younger Jay: leave unfulfilling jobs and seek growth56:37 - How leadership has evolved with technology and generational shifts58:25 - The personal impact of funeral service: making a lasting difference60:02 - Leadership as a lifelong learning process: always seek knowledge62:06 - Quick-fire questions on tech, travel, personality, and personal preferences64:35 - Final thoughts and gratitudeResources & Links:Crucial Conversations by Al Switzler, Joseph Grenny, and Ron McMillanhttps://www.jacobsonprostaff.com/general-8 by Jay JacobsonJay Jacobson on Linkedin

Crisis Leadership: When Listening Beats Talking - Ep 13 Jay Jacobson, Funeral Service Advocate

Discover how Hannah Eakins has transformed entry into the entertainment production industry through her initiative, Production Futures. In this episode, we explore the evolution of industry careers, business strategy, innovations during COVID, and how diversity and social media are shaping the next generation.Key Topics:The inception and mission of Production Futures: promoting visibility and credibility in entertainment production.How COVID accelerated digital growth and shifted strategies for engaging industry newcomers.The importance of practical experience over degrees and emerging pathways like apprenticeships.Addressing diversity, inclusion, and changing perceptions around careers in entertainment.The role of social media platforms (TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn) in outreach and engagement.How young people, parents, and educators are viewing opportunities in the industry.The impact of industry culture shifts, including healthier social norms and inclusive spaces.Hannah’s vision for the next five years: expanding partnerships, online platforms, and more accessible events.Personal insights: lifestyle changes like abstinence, mental health, and work-life balance.Practical advice for startups and industry leaders: embracing innovation, self-care, and community-building.Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Hannah Eakins and Production Futures02:14 - Origins of Production Futures and its evolution over 10 years03:54 - COVID's influence on industry engagement and digital transformation04:31 - The industry’s pathways for newcomers: apprenticeships, training, and experience06:00 - Changing perceptions of careers: parents, families, and education07:37 - Diversity and inclusion efforts within production industry events09:21 - How social media broadens outreach to varied demographics11:11 - The impact of COVID on student confidence and resilience12:30 - The role of practical experience versus formal qualifications in hiring15:51 - Growing diversity: gender, ethnicity, and accessibility in entertainment production17:08 - Building an inclusive community: marketing and outreach strategies19:25 - Reaching home-educated youth and underrepresented communities21:18 - Adapting marketing strategies for TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn24:54 - The importance of authenticity and strategy in social media content28:26 - Hands-on experience at Production Futures events and soft skills workshops30:42 - The value of apprenticeship routes and early industry exposure32:26 - COVID’s long-term impact on industry preparedness and resilience35:49 - Hannah’s future plans for Production Futures over the next five years40:00 - Rebuilding and growing post-pandemic: lessons learned and successes44:18 - Changing industry norms around social norms, alcohol, and health55:17 - Personal lifestyle choices: alcohol, sleep, exercise, and mental wellbeing60:59 - The business takeaways: leadership, innovation, and embracing AI62:20 - Rapid fire questions: favorite platforms, travel preferences, and personal habitsResources & Links:Production Futures Official WebsiteHannah Eakins LinkedInTPI Magazine & AwardsThe Business Takeaway PodcastConnect with Hannah:LinkedInTwitterNote: The episode emphasises that industry success relies on experience, diversity, innovation, and community support. Hannah encourages young people and industry professionals to stay curious, adaptable, and committed to fostering an inclusive environment for the future of entertainment production.

Production Futures: Diversity and Career Growth in Entertainment - Ep 12 Hannah Eakins, MD Production Futures

In this in-depth interview, Greg shares his journey from music retail to founding Headline Audio, discussing how the industry has evolved post-COVID, the importance of personal relationships in sales, and strategies for adapting to market changes. Gain insights into navigating challenges, building a brand, business strategy and maintaining a passion for music and business at the same time whilst learning from potential sales mistakes along the way. Learn about the sales mistakes from a business owner who's lived a huge amount of leadership challengesKey topicsGreg's career evolution from music retail to audio distributionImpact of COVID-19 on the music and retail industryStrategies for small retailers to survive in a digital worldThe importance of personal relationships and customer serviceLessons learned from starting a new business post-COVIDChapters00:00Greg Niven's Journey in Music and Business05:22The Impact of COVID-19 on the Music Industry10:04Adapting to a New Retail Landscape14:58Building a Brand in a Competitive Market19:47Navigating Challenges and Embracing Change24:53The Future of Music Retail and Technology31:20The Importance of Personal Connection in Business34:01Shifting Focus from Sales Numbers to Customer Relationships38:59Balancing Work and Personal Life39:48Navigating Business Challenges and Concerns42:18Learning from Experience and Trusting Yourself47:32Simplifying Business Operations for Success54:16The Emotional Connection in Sales56:43Maintaining Commercial Viability While Enjoying Work59:20The Necessity of Innovation and ChallengeResourcesHeadline Audio WebsiteNord Keyboards

Sales Mistakes in Retail | How Business Adapt Post-COVID - Ep 11 Greg Niven MD Headline Audio

In this podcast episode, Ben Payne interviews Marcel Fairbairn, the CEO and founder of GearNet Holdings, discussing the evolution of the entertainment industry, the importance of data analytics, business strategy, CEO Insights and the role of AI in transforming business practices. They explore the challenges faced during COVID-19 and how the industry adapted, emphasising the need for innovation and resilience in a niche market.In this conversation, Marcel reflects on the transformative impact of COVID on his business, emphasising the importance of adapting to change and focusing on customer needs. He discusses his evolving attitude towards risk and innovation, sharing lessons learned from significant business challenges. Marcel also offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the necessity of understanding market viability and the importance of building a strong foundation for business growth. The discussion concludes with key takeaways from his extensive career, underscoring the value of customer focus and continuous improvement.

From Near Collapse to Market Leader Episode 10 - Marcel Fairbairn, CEO GearNet Holdings

In this episode of the Business Takeaway podcast, Fran shares her nonlinear journey to becoming the Commercial Director for Mondial Technology Media, discussing her experiences in the live events industry, the evolution of print media in a digital world, and the challenges of managing large-scale events. She emphasises the importance of passion in the industry, the coexistence of print and digital content, and the impact of AI on marketing strategies. Fran also reflects on personal growth, the significance of awards in recognising industry talent, and her mantra of 'better not bitter' as a guiding principle in both personal and professional life.TakeawaysFran's journey to becoming a Commercial Director was nonlinear and filled with diverse experiences.The live events industry is driven by passion and community.Print media still holds value in the B2B space despite the rise of digital.Post-COVID, there has been a resurgence in print media as businesses adapt to new norms.Awards and recognition are crucial for motivating industry professionals.Event management requires careful consideration of guest experiences and logistics.AI is a tool that can enhance workflow but cannot replace human creativity.Personal growth comes from learning from failures and not being too hard on oneself.Building strong relationships in the industry is essential for success.The mantra 'better not bitter' serves as a guiding principle for Fran.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Fran's Journey03:49 The Evolution of Print and Digital Media06:46 The Importance of Awards and Recognition in the Industry09:55 Adapting to Industry Changes Post-COVID12:44 The Role of Events in the Live Industry15:59 Challenges in Event Management18:40 The Emotional Impact of Live Events21:45 Marketing Strategies and ROI24:52 The Journey of Marketing Campaigns28:00 The Creative Process Behind Events30:42 Reflections on Success and Future Goals40:42 The Journey of Growth in the Industry41:45 Passion for Celebration and Recognition42:37 The Role of AI in Marketing and Creativity46:48 Human Experience vs. AI in Problem Solving51:47 Managing Responsibilities and Stress Before Events55:38 Decision Making: Gut Instinct vs. Calculated Risks58:40 Embracing Failure and Learning from Mistakes01:01:48 The Importance of Positivity and Energy in Work01:04:02 Living by the Mantra: Better Not Bitter

Print is not Dead - Episode 9 Fran Begaj, Commercial Director for Mondial Technology Media

The podcast is making a comeback in 2026 with a lineup of great guests and a focus on discussing business challenges in the post-pandemic world, the evolution of technology, and the of course those all important take away's that we want to learn from!Want to be on the show? Drop us a line: pod@thebusinesstakeawaypodcast.com

Episode 8 - We're back!

Today’s guest is Sharon Livermore. Sharon is the owner and director of Kameo recruitment. Sharon talks to us today about the world o recruitment, the challenges of recruiting in and out of COVID and also the new expectations of staff in the post covid world. It’s really interesting to hear how things have changed in such times and trying to understand what the new “norms” will beSharon also talks to us about the subject of Domestic abuse. Being a Domestic Abuse survivor Sharon now campaigns globally for businesses to adopt policies to help their staff if they find themselves in such a position. We’ll hear her story and her support for anyone who might be going through this at this time.https://kameorecruitment.comhttps://kameorecruitment.com/domestic-abuse/https://domestic-abuse.co.uk/https://www.eida.org.uk/become-a-member

What’s Changed in Work Forever — And Why Businesses Must Do More Episode 7 - Sharon Livermore, Kameo Recruitment

Today’s guest is Rich Alderton. Rich runs a business call High Performance Change here in Cambridge. Rich is a change specialist. Now before today you might not know what a change specialist is - but I hope you get a better take on this after today’s podcast and why people are perhaps so reluctant to change. Personally love change - and “keeping the status quo” isn’t something that I believe in, so it was great to talk through and here Rich’s ideas. Rich also talks to us about his life, some major upheavals he’s faced and how that’s reflected in the work he now does. Listening and talking to Rich it’s very easy to forget how fragile life is. We’re all focused on the day to day with work, but sometimes life really takes over and throws you some real personal challenges. Hearing what Rich has gone through really draws that into focus as we will hear. https://www.highperformancechange.com/ 

Episode 6 - Rich Alderton, MD High Performance Change

Today’s guest is Lee Dennison. Lee is Head of Relationships for a business in the entertainment industry as well as being heavily involved in our industries charity. Lee talks to us today about his journey as starting technician working on shows in the west end to today dealing with clients and customers on large scale projects. It’s a great listen!Today he talks through about stripping a lot of things back to basics. It’s very easy in todays tech world that we use “digital” skills as he calls it rather than the analogue skills. Find out about Lee’s views on those skills and what we he believes we need the next generation to focus on to give them the skills to move forward. Even if you aren’t the next generation I hope that you take something away from todays episode into your life or business or perhaps how you advise the next generation!Backup Charity - https://www.backuptech.uk/ Creative Technology - https://www.ct-group.com/

Episode 5 - Lee Dennison, Head of Client Relationships at Creative Technology

Today’s guest is Daniel Colaianni a tech entrepreneur who’s working in the Extended Reality world. I met him as a young lad who was helping businesses with bits of marketing content. However it was very clear to see that what ever he turned his hand to was quite brilliant and you could sense that he was going to go far. He’s talks to us today about the world of Extended reality. Now to you or I at this moment in time you probably don’t have a clue what that is – but join us on the journey to find out in depth how this is going to potentially change our lives! Daniel is an engaging and fascinating listen. I was blown away by some of the things he talked about and the maturity for someone so young to have a very clear picture on his business, business life and “take-aways” is highly impressive. I hope you can all learn something from him and what he has to say. ----- Daniel Colaianni is the Chief Executive of the Academy of International Extended Reality, a not for profit membership body dedicated to supporting companies grow using virtual and augmented reality and actively accelerating the immersive industry. Daniel built and leads an executive board made up of Facebook, Disney, Microsoft, Google, Boeing and more, to steer and execute global initiatives and strategy aimed at supporting growth within immersive enterprises. Starting from the young age of just 16, organising events sponsored by Amazon, Unity and more, as a college dropout, Daniel later exited from a self built marketing agency after 3 years of strategising and managing complex marketing campaigns for national UK brands. Focusing full time on VR & AR, Daniel has since built the largest internationally recognised award show for the immersive industry, sits on various committees advising companies on “XR” and has amassed a network of over 6,000 individuals and companies working daily with the technology. https://aixr.org/ 

Episode 4 - Daniel Colaianni, CEO of AIXR

We're joined today by Ian Mather CEO of Cambridge United Football Club. Now I have to be honest here - I’m a big fan of the football club and a Season ticket holder. Ian talks to us today about his journey as starting as a lawyer before migrating to the role of CEO. The football business is like no other and has been hard hit like a lot of businesses during covid and it’s an interesting listen to hear how he took quick and swift action to protect the club and the challenges around they faced. What impressed me about Ian’s interview was his take aways. In todays world, technology is sometimes getting in the way of being decent person and communicating properly. It’s easy to just send an email, but sometimes an email just isn’t right and you need to actually speak with a human. Fairgame - https://www.fairgameuk.org/ Ian Mather on Twitter @ianmather10

Episode 3 - Ian Mather, CEO of Cambridge United Football Club

Welcome to the first full episode of the Business Take-Away Podcast featuring Ben Bowles from CEG. Ben talks about his business that provides lighting to the entertainment industry, how it was affected by the pandemic, and how despite all the challenges that it's come out the other side in a better place. It's a frank conversation where he could have lost his whole business if the banks hadn't supported it - but it's a great listen for any business leader!

Episode 2 - Ben Bowles of CEG

Welcome to the trailer and introduction to the Business Take-Away Podcast. Ben Payne the host of the podcast takes you through what the basis of the podcast is about and what he hopes you as the listener is going to gain from it!