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Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
Byron Grealy
76 episodes
4 months ago
Join Byron weekly while he chats with founders, creators and self-starters about how they started and where they are now.

The aim is to understand the mental frameworks and hurdles around getting started and to find out more about their industries.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Entrepreneurship
Education,
Business,
Self-Improvement
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All content for Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears is the property of Byron Grealy and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Join Byron weekly while he chats with founders, creators and self-starters about how they started and where they are now.

The aim is to understand the mental frameworks and hurdles around getting started and to find out more about their industries.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Show more...
Entrepreneurship
Education,
Business,
Self-Improvement
Episodes (20/76)
Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#76 Why founders keep hiring the wrong people (and what to do instead)

Logan Merrick is the co-founder of Willbound, a company helping founder-led businesses hire elite talent from the Philippines.


In this episode, we talk about why most offshore hiring fails, what founders get wrong about delegation, and how Logan rebuilt after burning out and publicly crashing his first company.


He shares the lessons from running a lean 7-figure e-commerce brand, how that led to building Willbound, and why the quality of your hires determines how fast, or how painfully, you scale.


Whether you're hiring your first operator or trying to build a remote team that actually works, this episode will help you rethink how you approach talent.


Topics We Cover:

• Why most founders approach hiring the wrong way

• The myth of cheap offshore labor

• How Logan accidentally started a recruiting company

• His public business failure and how he rebuilt

• What “buying back time” actually looks like

• How to identify and attract top 1% global talent

• Common mistakes founders make when building remote teams

• The mindset shift from chasing growth to building leverage


Logan:


LinkedIn


Willbound:


Website


Follow Me: 


YouTube

Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok


Chapters:


00:00 – Intro

01:00 – How Logan built Willbound from solving his own hiring pain

05:00 – Why most offshore hiring fails

08:00 – What top talent in the Philippines actually looks like

12:00 – The recruiting system Logan built from scratch

16:00 – The biggest hiring mistake founders make

20:00 – Why Logan doesn’t chase hypergrowth anymore

24:00 – Lessons from scaling a 7-figure brand with a 10-hour workweek

28:00 – Burnout, ego, and rebuilding after public failure

33:00 – What motivates Logan now

37:00 – Building a personal brand after disappearing from the spotlight

41:00 – Tips for building a lean, high-performance remote team

47:00 – Why systems and great people matter more than hustle

52:00 – Advice for early-stage founders on hiring and delegation

58:00 – Byron and Logan reflect on audience-building and motivation

01:05:00 – Logan’s closing question for Byron


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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4 months ago
1 hour 19 minutes 46 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#75 How to build real authority in 2025

In this episode, I sit down with Sam Winsbury, founder of Kurogo, a leading personal branding agency working with founders and CEOs. Sam shares how he built Kurogo from a solo freelancing gig into a 15-person team generating 30–50 inbound leads a month through content.


We cover:


• Why personal branding is still underrated in B2B

• How Sam landed his first clients and scaled his offer

• What positioning actually means, and why most founders skip it

• The pricing lessons that took Kurogo from £500 retainers to revenue-share deals

• Hiring mistakes, growth pains, and why a big team isn’t always better

• How he manages a fully remote team across 3 continents

• What’s next for personal branding: podcasts, newsletters, and real authority

• Behind the scenes of launching his new podcast, Success Clues


Whether you’re building an agency, growing your personal brand, or thinking about how to stay relevant as content gets more competitive, this episode is packed with practical insights.


Sam:


LinkedIn

YouTube


Kurogo:


Website


Follow Me: 


YouTube

Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok


Timestamps

00:00 – Intro

01:17 – What Kurogo does

02:03 – The story behind the name

03:11 – Why Sam skipped the 9-to-5

06:16 – From ghostwriting to full-service

08:38 – How his pricing strategy evolved

10:04 – When the business started taking off

11:17 – Early lessons from LinkedIn

13:37 – ROI from personal branding

15:13 – Downsizing, AI, and staying lean

16:40 – Building systems while scaling

19:13 – Learning from clients

21:43 – Remote culture & team dynamics

23:30 – Sam’s current role in the business

25:12 – Where personal branding is heading

27:18 – What’s still hard at this stage

29:28 – Sam’s personal content process

31:38 – Launching the Success Clues podcast

34:55 – Why I started my own podcast

38:02 – Owning your audience

39:51 – Hardest moment as a founder

42:25 – Identity shifts and self-belief

48:38 – What he’s building with Kurogo

50:01 – What he’d do differently

51:19 – Why most middle management is useless

52:14 – Final questions


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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5 months ago
1 hour 4 minutes 54 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#74 This AI Powered Marketplace Is Replacing Cold Outreach with Creator Influence

David Walsh is back on the pod, and this time, Limelight isn’t just an idea. It’s a fast-growing B2B creator marketplace that’s helping brands like HubSpot, Xero, and Webflow tap into niche creators for measurable growth.


In this episode, we dive into:


• Why cold outreach is dying — and what’s replacing it

• The power of niche creators in B2B marketing

• How Limelight is using AI and data to scale partnerships

• David’s no-BS approach to startup building

• Fundraising lessons from a second-time founder

• What most startups get wrong about product design

• The underrated skill every founder needs


David doesn’t hold back. If you're building a startup, scaling a brand, or rethinking how to do marketing in 2025, this one’s for you.


Connect with David:


LinkedIn

Limelight


Follow Me: 


YouTube

Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok


Subscribe for more conversations with founders who’ve been there, built that, and kept going.


New episodes every week.


Chapters


00:00 Introduction to Limelight's Growth

03:14 Building a Core Team

06:08 Strategic Shifts in Scaling

09:01 Hiring and Company Culture

11:47 Raising Capital and Investor Relations

15:00 Raising Capital: The Necessity and Strategy

17:49 Crafting the Perfect Investment Deck

20:52 The Importance of Speed in Product Development

23:55 Prioritizing Features: Aligning with Business Goals

27:06 Leveraging Influencers for Brand Growth

30:07 Measuring Campaign Success: Metrics That Matter

32:46 Navigating Challenges in B2B Marketing

35:56 Lessons Learned: The Entrepreneurial Journey

38:48 The Future of Business: Distribution and Brand Value


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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7 months ago
50 minutes 19 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#73 How Two Brothers with No Industry Experience Are Shaking Up the Drinks Market

How do you build a drinks brand from scratch with zero experience, no industry connections, and giants like Bud Light as your competitors?


In this episode, James Smith shares how he and his brother turned a simple idea (healthier, low-sugar vodka sodas) into Arrowtown, a drinks brand that's making serious waves.


From disastrous first batches and legal threats to bootstrapping sales by hand-delivering cases around their hometown, James opens up about the messy reality of entrepreneurship.


We cover:


• Why their initial lack of industry experience became their greatest strength.

• The grassroots marketing strategy that got them into regional stores.

• How they've managed to compete successfully against billion dollar global brands.


This conversation proves that sometimes, not knowing the "right" way is exactly what you need to find your own path to success.


Subscribe for more founder stories, actionable insights, and honest conversations.


Connect with James & Arrowtown:


Arrowtown Drinks

James Smith


Follow Me: 


YouTube

Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok


Chapters


00:00 Introduction to AeroTown

02:55 The RTD Market Landscape

06:08 Consumer Trends and Health Consciousness

08:53 The Journey of Starting AeroTown

12:02 Networking and Learning from Others

15:03 The Importance of Naivety in Entrepreneurship

18:01 Building a Brand with Family

20:57 The Genesis of AeroTown

24:09 Transitioning from Idea to Launch

26:53 The Entrepreneurial Spirit and Family Influence

29:48 Reflections on Running a Business with a Sibling

34:48 Family Dynamics in Business

38:59 Grassroots Beginnings: The First Sale

47:13 Challenges and Setbacks

50:03 Bootstrapping and Funding Strategies

55:07 Future Aspirations and Growth

58:27 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs


Brought to you by Cue Studios, empowering founders to share their story clearly, consistently, and creatively.

Learn more


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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7 months ago
1 hour 8 minutes 50 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#72 Why 'Following the Herd' Might Be Your Smartest Business Move Yet with Tom Ridges

In this episode, I sit down with Tom Ridges, founder of Herdify, to explore how understanding human behaviour and herd mentality can revolutionize your marketing strategy.


Tom shares his incredible journey, from spending £70K on a failed app to discovering a unique way of using behavioural science and herd dynamics to help businesses pinpoint exactly where their customers are.


We dive deep into why traditional demographic marketing often fails and how Herdify achieves jaw-dropping results by tapping into the conversations customers are already having.


Tom also candidly reveals key lessons learned from his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of transitioning from consulting to SaaS, and why curiosity and action-taking are critical for entrepreneurial success.


If you're tired of wasting money on ineffective marketing or want to uncover the hidden force driving consumer decisions, this conversation is packed with actionable insights you won't want to miss.


What You'll Learn:


• How herd mentality impacts customer behaviour (and how you can use it)

• The marketing "secret weapon" behind Herdify's success

• Tom's journey from costly failures to building a thriving startup

• Practical advice for early-stage founders and marketers looking to stand out


Connect with Tom:


LinkedIn


Herdify Website


Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, rate, and share to help more listeners discover the show!


Follow Me: 


YouTube

Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok


Chapters:


00:00 Introduction to Herdify

02:01 Understanding Audience Behavior

06:02 Targeting Innovators and Disruptors

08:02 The Journey of Building Herdify

12:12 Defining Success in Business

15:10 The Importance of Curiosity

18:09 Building Relationships with Customers

19:48 The Qualities of a Founder

24:03 Taking the Leap into Entrepreneurship

29:09 Lessons from Failure

32:06 Challenges in Sales

35:15 Navigating Early Sales Challenges

40:06 The Importance of a Strong Team

42:29 Key Hires and Their Impact

48:47 Long-Term Vision for Herdify

50:49 Overcoming Product Perception Challenges

55:31 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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7 months ago
1 hour 3 minutes 26 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#71 We Tried These Life Hacks! Here’s What Actually Works! with Nick Daniels

In today's episode, we try something new.


Byron is joined by Nick Daniels, and we reflect on our experiences and insights from the past year, discussing life hacks, technology, productivity, and mindset shifts.


We share personal anecdotes and practical tips that have significantly impacted our lives, emphasizing the importance of intentional habits and reframing perspectives to enhance well-being and success.


We also discuss the importance of taking action as a key differentiator for success, how to transform everyday frustrations into gratitude, and the lessons learned from past failures.


It's so important to focus on effectiveness rather than just being busy, leveraging AI for learning, and utilizing automation tools to improve workflow.


Our discussion also covers health and fitness hacks, including meal prepping and optimizing sleep for better health.


In other words, it's a lot. We cover a lot of ground, but there's something in there for everyone.


In the episode, we discuss:


• Finding a balance between consumption and action

• Sleep hacks

• Boosting productivity

• Reframing challenges

• Comparison

• Impacts mental health

• Focusing on effectiveness

• Using AI tools

• Meal prepping

• Building a personal brand

• Habit stacking

• The ABC method

• Anti-goals

• Non-negotiables


Nick:


Newsletter

Website

Instagram

TikTok

YouTube

Spotify


Follow Me: 


YouTube

Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok


Chapters


00:00 2024 Recap: Reflections and Insights

02:29 Life Hacks for Productivity

08:17 Tech That Transforms Daily Life

15:21 Enhancing Focus and Productivity

20:05 Small Habits, Big Impact

22:28 Mindset Shifts and Mental Models

33:00 Taking Action: The Key to Success

33:59 Transforming Frustrations into Gratitude

38:53 Learning from Past Failures

45:06 Focusing on Effectiveness Over Busyness

49:04 Leveraging AI for Learning

55:14 Automation Tools for Efficiency

58:45 Health and Fitness Hacks

01:04:51 Optimizing Sleep for Better Health

01:05:51 The Power of Sleep and Nutrition

01:08:06 Daily Habits for Mental Clarity

01:10:41 Building a Personal Brand

01:18:50 New Year's Resolutions and Personal Growth

01:26:16 Effective Habit Formation and Goal Setting



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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8 months ago
1 hour 37 minutes 59 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#70 Why Attention Is the New Currency (And How to Use It) with Matt Wheeler-Barrett

In this conversation, Byron and Matt Wheeler-Barrett discuss the inception and mission of Unyfy, a B2B personal branding agency.


They explore the significance of personal branding in today's digital landscape, the importance of building relationships with clients, and the impact of social media trends.


Matt shares insights on leveraging AI for content creation and reflects on his early entrepreneurial experiences, emphasizing the lessons learned and the realities of running a business.


The discussion culminates in thoughts on growth, responsibility, and future aspirations for Unyfy.


In this conversation, Matt Wheeler-Barrett shares his journey in entrepreneurship, discussing the importance of building momentum, the distinction between dreamers and starters, and the challenges of team building and capacity management.


Matt also offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the significance of mentorship and networking in achieving success.


Highlights:


• Personal branding is essential for standing out in a competitive market

• Building relationships

• AI optimizing content creation

• Early entrepreneurial experiences

• Networking crucial for finding opportunities and partnerships

• Entrepreneurship requires discipline

• Attention is a key currency

• Investing in people

• Reinvesting in your business

• Execution and action are what separate dreamers from starters

• Offer value for free to build relationships

• Persistence is key in finding clients and opportunities

• Mentorship and networking


Matt:


LinkedIn


Unyfy:


Website

LinkedIn


Follow Me: 


YouTube

Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok


Chapters


00:00 Introduction to Unifi and Its Mission

03:02 The Importance of Personal Branding

05:50 Building Relationships and Client Engagement

08:48 Navigating Trends and Hacks in Social Media

12:04 The Role of AI in Content Creation

15:02 Lessons from Early Entrepreneurship

17:49 The Journey of Building Unifi

20:55 The Reality of Entrepreneurship

23:52 Reflections on Growth and Future Aspirations

27:58 Building Momentum in Entrepreneurship

30:54 The Difference Between Dreamers and Starters

33:22 Navigating Tough Decisions in Business

34:16 Team Building and Capacity Challenges

35:49 Leveraging AI in Business Operations

39:07 Empathetic Leadership and Team Dynamics

43:41 Long-Term Vision for Unify

45:58 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

49:13 Finding Mentors and Building Connections



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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8 months ago
53 minutes 59 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#69 The ONE Leadership Skill You’re Probably Ignoring (But Shouldn’t) with James Fleming

In this episode I'm joined by, James Fleming, Managing Director of Power Within Training.


We discuss the unique approach of his leadership development company, focusing on motivational intelligence.


He shares his journey from a successful corporate career to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of understanding human motivation and adapting leadership styles for the modern workforce.


James reflects on the challenges and growth his business experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the significance of resilience and support in overcoming doubts and achieving success.


In this conversation, James shares his journey in leadership training, emphasizing the importance of overcoming excuses, transforming challenges into opportunities, and the significance of storytelling in gaining buy-in from participants. He discusses his vision for global expansion, lessons learned from business failures, and the ongoing battle with imposter syndrome. James encourages listeners to take action against their fears and highlights the rewarding nature of the hard path in entrepreneurship.


In the episode, we discuss:


• Motivational intelligence

• Effective leadership requirements

• How leadership has to adapt to a changing world

• Early entrepreneurial days and challenges

• Asking the right questions.

• People need to feel involved to truly engage in their work.

• Leadership development

• Believing in your vision is essential for long-term success

• The biggest excuses

• Lessons from business failures

• Managing fear

• Nothing good happens in the comfort zone

• The rewarding hard path

• What if you could?


James:


LinkedIn


The Power Within Training:


Website

LinkedIn


Follow Me:


YouTube

Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok


Chapters


00:00 Introduction to Power Within Training

03:04 Understanding Motivational Intelligence

05:56 The Journey to Entrepreneurship

12:00 Adapting Leadership for the 21st Century

17:11 Growth Through Adversity

24:54 Overcoming Doubts in Early Entrepreneurship

30:54 Vision for Global Expansion

32:20 Overcoming Common Excuses

33:40 Transforming Challenges into Opportunities

34:50 Lessons from Business Failures

37:45 Navigating Imposter Syndrome

42:08 Building Buy-In Through Storytelling

46:56 Taking Action Against Excuses

49:51 The Hard Path to Success

51:43 The Journey of Starting a Podcast



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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9 months ago
57 minutes 3 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#68 How to Scale a Business & Lead with Vulnerability – Libby Swan’s Entrepreneurial Playbook

In this episode, Libby Swan discusses her journey with Axioned, a technology services firm, and the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.


She shares insights on scaling a business, managing diverse teams, and the impact of AI on operations. Libby emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in leadership and the privilege of starting a business.


The discussion also touches on the significance of help and mentorship, the process of manifestation, and the essential human skills needed in today's business landscape.


In the episode, we discuss:


• Axioned

• Entrepreneurship requirements

• Managing stress

• Working with a spouse

• Company culture

• AI tools

• The privilege of starting a business

• Vulnerability in leadership

• Seeking help

• Manifestation


Axioned:


LinkedIn

Website


Libby:


LinkedIn


Follow Me:


YouTube

Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok



Chapters


01:00 Introduction to Action and Its Mission

04:03 The Journey of Entrepreneurship

06:58 Scaling Challenges and Team Dynamics

10:01 Navigating Company Culture Across Borders

13:08 The Impact of AI on Business Operations

15:58 The Privilege of Entrepreneurship

19:01 Leadership Evolution and Vulnerability

21:56 The Role of Help and Mentorship

24:50 Manifestation and Intentional Living

28:01 The Importance of Being Human in Business



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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9 months ago
37 minutes 24 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#67 How You Can Transform Fear into Confidence and Build Your Dream Career

Join us for another episode of Another Excuse!


In this conversation, Kevin Tewis discusses his marketing consultancy, Starbridge, and its unique approach to audience engagement, emphasizing the importance of understanding demographics and utilizing data effectively.

We explore the role of events in marketing, the impact of generational differences, and the significance of trends. Kevin also shares insights on the evolving landscape of platforms like TikTok and the necessity of creative testing in marketing strategies.


He shares his journey from a nervous teenager seeking creative opportunities to a successful entrepreneur in the music and marketing industries. Discussing the importance of community engagement, networking, and education in building confidence and achieving entrepreneurial dreams.


The need for specificity in networking requests is so important and so is continuous learning to enhance one's professional skills.


In this episode, we discuss:


• Starbridge and how it works

• Creating entertainment legacies

• Understanding your audience

• Technology's role in how we consume content

• The importance of data

• Testing marketing strategies

• Entrepreneurship begins with passion

• Overcoming fear

• Networking



Kevin:


LinkedIn

Website



Follow Me: 


Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok


Chapters


01:00 Introduction to Starbridge and Its Unique Approach

03:53 Understanding Audience Engagement and Marketing Strategies

07:00 The Role of Events in Marketing

09:58 Navigating Generational Marketing Challenges

12:52 The Importance of Data in Marketing

16:00 The Impact of Trends on Marketing Strategies

18:45 The Future of TikTok and Its Marketing Potential

28:59 Exploring Community Engagement and Business Opportunities

30:24 The Journey into Entrepreneurship Begins

33:08 Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence

38:16 The Power of Networking in Business

45:29 Building Confidence Through Education and Knowledge

48:30 The Podcasting Journey and Its Impact



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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9 months ago
52 minutes 36 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#66 The Future of Live Events: Data, Decentralization, and Disruption with Iqbal Ameer

Today's guest is Iqbal Ameer the founder of Livescape and All-Access.


In this conversation, Byron and Iqbal Ameer discuss the journey of Livescape, a live entertainment company, from its inception to today.


Iqbal shares insights into the challenges of organizing live events, the evolution of the music industry, and the impact of the pandemic.


They also delve into Iqbal's new project, All Access Anonymous, which aims to solve data-related issues in the live entertainment industry by authenticating fan data through a gamified experience.


In this conversation, Iqbal Ameer discusses the challenges faced by independent event organizers in the entertainment industry, the rise of NFTs and blockchain technology, and the desperation seen in the crypto space. He emphasizes the importance of community and real value in a few meme coins, as well as innovative applications of blockchain technology in various sectors, including decentralized science.


Iqbal shares his leadership philosophy, which is focused on empowering talent, and offers insights into the entrepreneurial mindset, concluding with his vision for the future of All Access and its role in transforming the live entertainment landscape.


In the episode, we discuss:


• The transition from an ice cream truck to a major event organizer

• The shift from album sales to live performances as a primary revenue source for artists

• Data authenticity is crucial for event organizers to make informed decisions

• All Access Anonymous

• Gamifying fan engagement

• The emotional connection created at live events

• Monopolistic entertainment conglomerates

• Innovative funding models

• Effective leadership

• The future of live entertainment


Iqbal:


LinkedIn


All Access:


Website


Follow Me: 


Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok


Chapters


01:00 The Genesis of Livescape

12:55 The Evolution of Live Entertainment

24:59 Introducing All Access Anonymous

31:02 The Impact of the Pandemic on Live Events

32:57 Navigating the Entertainment Industry's Challenges

33:55 The Rise of NFTs and Blockchain Technology

35:44 Desperation in the Crypto Space

39:17 Real Value in Meme Coins and Community Building

41:45 Innovative Applications of Blockchain Technology

44:15 Decentralized Science and Funding Research

45:06 Empowering Artists Through Blockchain

46:18 Leadership and Empowering Talent

53:19 The Entrepreneurial Mindset and Advice

55:38 Vision for the Future of All Access








Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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11 months ago
59 minutes 16 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#65 Building a B2B creator partnership platform with David Walsh

In this conversation, David discusses his journey in founding Limelight, a platform for B2B influencer marketing.


He shares insights on the evolution of influencer marketing, the challenges of customer acquisition, and the importance of building a personal brand.


David also reflects on his previous ventures, including a watch company and an HR tech startup, emphasizing the significance of research and validation in entrepreneurship.


We also discuss the complexities of entrepreneurship, including the right timing for business decisions, the emotional challenges of leadership, and the importance of community and mentorship. He emphasizes the need for resilience, the joy of celebrating small victories, and the necessity of hard work and dedication in building a successful business.


He also shares insights on managing pressure and the value of learning from both successes and failures in the entrepreneurial journey.


In the episode, we discuss:


• Influencer marketing in B2B is a growing opportunity

• Distribution

• Rising customer acquisition costs

• Authenticity

• Building a personal brand

• Research and user feedback

• Consistency

• Timing in entrepreneurship is often instinctual and market-driven

• The hardest part of entrepreneurship

• Validating ideas without taking unnecessary risks

• Sales experience


Chapters


01:00 Introduction to Limelight and Influencer Marketing

07:07 The Business Model of Limelight

12:52 Building a Personal Brand

19:09 The Entrepreneurial Mindset

24:45 Timing the Exit from a Business

32:09 Navigating Timing in Entrepreneurship

37:37 Thriving Under Pressure

43:25 The Importance of Resilience

50:52 Vision and Future Plans for Limelight



David:


LinkedIn


Limelight:


Website

LinkedIn


Follow Me: 


Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1 year ago
1 hour 8 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#64 Running a business with ADHD with Kate La Trobe

Today’s guest is Kate La Trobe. 


Kate is the founder of her own neurodiversity consulting and coaching business. 


In the episode she shares her journey into the field of neurodiversity consulting, discussing her personal experiences with ADHD and how they shaped her career. 


She emphasizes the importance of understanding neurodiversity, the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD, and the significance of proper diagnosis. Kate also delves into her entrepreneurial journey, the realities of running a business, and the skills necessary for success, particularly for those with ADHD. 


Our conversation highlights the need for support and understanding for both individuals and their families. We discuss Kate’s approach to ADHD coaching, emphasizing a strengths-based perspective and the importance of collaboration with parents. She highlights the evolving understanding of ADHD and neurodiversity, challenges stereotypes, and explores how neurodivergent traits can be viewed as strengths or superpowers. 


Kate shares her vision for a future where neurodiversity is fully integrated into society, advocating for inclusive environments and greater awareness.


In the episode, we discuss:


• Kate's business journey

• Understanding neurodiversity is crucial for creating inclusive spaces

• How ADHD differs in adults and children

• The relief of diagnosis

• Imposter syndrome

• Networking and finding clients

• Social media glamorizes entrepreneurship

• Asking for help

• Parents gaining confidence and understanding of their child

• Stereotypes 

And much more


Kate: 


LinkedIn


Website


Business LinkedIn


Instagram


Follow Me: 


Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok




Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1 year ago
1 hour 56 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#63 The Rise of the Gig Economy with Sydney Sam

This week's guest is Sydney Sam, the founder of Workspace Global. 


In this episode, we discuss the evolution of Workspace Global from a traditional agency to a SaaS model designed to support small businesses with creative services. 

Sydney shares his insights on the challenges of educating the market, sourcing talent from Africa, and the importance of a robust vetting process for quality assurance. 

He also reflects on the future of business operations, the gig economy, and his personal journey into entrepreneurship, emphasising the need for action and problem-solving in business.

We discuss the complexities of entrepreneurship, focusing on the importance of validating ideas, the balance between personal fulfilment and financial success, and the challenges of leading a team.

He shares insights on personal growth, the impact of toxic traits, and the significance of maintaining a work-life balance. Sydney also outlines his vision for Workspace Global and his non-profit OpenSpace, emphasizing the need for patience and resilience in achieving long-term goals.


In the episode, we discuss:


• Workspace Global’s subscription model

• The transition from agency to SaaS 

• Educating the market

• Africa poised to be a major player in the global workforce.

• The future of business

• Self-discovery

• The Ikigai concept 

• Effective Networking 

• Personal growth

• Future aspirations


Sydney: 


LinkedIn


Workspace Global: 


Website

LinkedIn

Facebook

Instagram


OpenSpace:


Website

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

YouTube


Follow Me: 


Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1 year ago
59 minutes 50 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#62 The Future of Work with Greg Cooke

This week's guest is Greg Cooke, the founder of Rafiki.


In this conversation, we discuss his startup's evolution from a recruitment agency to a platform that connects freelancers in Africa with global businesses.


Greg shares insights on the freelancer economy, the challenges faced in sourcing talent, and the benefits for both freelancers and clients. The discussion also touches on the future of work, the importance of continuous learning, and the fundraising journey through an accelerator program.


Greg highlights the development of Rafiki X, a SaaS platform aimed at enhancing collaboration among freelancers, and shares his vision for the company's growth in the next five years.


We also chat about his experience with podcasting and the value of authentic content creation.


In the episode, we discuss:


• Rafiki connecting freelancers in Africa to global businesses

• The company’s evolution

• The freelancer agency model

• Upskilling.

• Africa’s rapid growth

• The future of work

• Podcasting

• Authenticity


Greg:


LinkedIn


Rafiki:


Website

LinkedIn


Diet Starts Monday Podcast:


Instagram

Linktree


Follow Me: 


Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1 year ago
1 hour 1 minute 11 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#61 Data-Driven Strategies with Veronica Brits

This week's guest is Veronica Brits, the founder of Feedflex Creatives.


A company that focuses on driving creative and media teams into full automation and digital transformation. They use data-driven strategies to build feed structures for audience targeting and custom ad scripts.


The company also offers the FeedFlex Bridge, a microservice methodology that helps traditional creative and media teams transition into big data skill sets. They primarily work in advertising, including Google ads and TV 360, to enrich targeting and personalize campaigns.


Feedflex Creatives aims to empower teams and accelerate innovation while embracing the future of work and technology.


In the episode, we discuss:


• What Feedflex Creatives is and how it works

• Overcoming Fears and Pursuing Entrepreneurship

• Helping traditional teams transition into big data skill sets.

• The Future of Work

• The Role of Mentors in Veronica's Career


Veronica:


LinkedIn


Feedflex Creatives:


Website

LinkedIn

YouTube


Follow Me: 


Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok



Chapters







Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1 year ago
36 minutes 55 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#60 Good marketing, good people and a good time with Emily Dunlop

Emily is the founder of the Good Marketing Club and she shares her journey of starting her own business and the principles she lives by.


Emily tells us what a fractional CMO is and does and explains how she helps early-stage startups with their marketing strategies. We also discuss the value of personal branding and the challenges and rewards of starting her own business.


We speak about the benefits and challenges of being your own boss and the importance of work-life integration. Emily shares how she manages her time, the importance of self-compassion, and the role of mentorship in her journey.

It's important to stay curious, stay up to date with trends and just get started!


In the episode, we discuss:


• What The Good Marketing Club is

• What good marketing is

• Enjoying what you do

• Being a fractional CMO

• Personal branding

• Starting your own business

• Building a strong LinkedIn presence and network

• Trusting your gut and taking calculated risks

• Jumping between jobs

• Time management and self-compassion

• Mentorship & Curiosity


Emily:


LinkedIn


The Good Marketing Club:


Website

LinkedIn


Follow Me: 


Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok


Chapters:


01:00 Introduction to the Good Marketing Club

02:49 Emily's Principles for Good Marketing

07:17 Choosing Marketing Tactics for Clients

09:51 The Role of a Fractional CMO

13:42 The Value of Personal Branding

16:21 Starting Your Own Business

18:23 Finding Clients and Building a Network

20:45 Trusting Your Gut and Taking Risks

22:37 The Surprises and Rewards of Entrepreneurship

27:31 The Benefits of Working for Yourself

30:22 Understanding and Catering to Individual Drivers

33:40 Time Management and Self-Compassion as an Entrepreneur

38:15 The Value of Mentorship in the Journey

40:09 The Role of Curiosity and Staying Up-to-Date in Marketing

44:21 Just Get Started and Believe in Yourself





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1 year ago
52 minutes 46 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#59 Shifting Power Dynamics in Digital Economies at OpenFormat with Sarah Weller

This week’s guest is Sarah Weller, the CEO of OpenFormat.


OpenFormat is shifting the power dynamics in digital economies by enabling creators and builders to make a sustainable income. They’re doing this by bringing together game economies, blockchain-based technologies, and AI. 


They’re building a tech stack that includes revenue splitting, micro payments, decentralized applications, and AI assistants. The five co-founders of Open Format have diverse skills and backgrounds, and they came together with a shared mission to redistribute wealth and rethink value exchanges. They are focused on creating real utility and working with people who are already aligned with their vision. 


We discuss the challenges of straddling the present and the big vision, the importance of being a learner, and the different perspectives on risk. She shares personal experiences and emphasises the need for honesty, humility, and transparency in business.


In the episode, we discuss:


• What OpenFormat does

• Their goals

• How it all works

• Having five co-founders

• Making a positive impact 

• Being a learner and having a learner mindset

• Taking calculated risks 

• Honesty, humility, and transparency


Sarah: 


LinkedIn


OpenFormat: 


Website

LinkedIn

Twitter

YouTube


Follow Me: 


Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok




Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1 year ago
1 hour 3 minutes 51 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#58 Rent App: Simplifying Rent Payments and Building Credit with Andrew Borovsky

This week’s guest is Andrew Borovsky, the founder and CEO of Visible and Rent App.


Visible is a company that aims to create a financial network for real estate. They’ve built Rent App, a platform that simplifies rent payments and helps renters build credit. The company focuses on tackling the complex, time-consuming, and costly aspects of real estate transactions and has chosen to start with rent payments because it is a large market and there is a need for digital solutions. 


Andrew has a background in product design and has previously started two other businesses. He believes in taking leaps and building products that he wants to exist in the world. He shares his insights on building great products and companies, the importance of team and culture fit, and the future of entrepreneurship. He emphasises the need to focus on building a great product first, as a great company will follow. 


He also discusses the role of venture funding in the AI and crypto industries and the importance of finding the right team and founder to succeed. Andrew shares his approach to team building and the importance of cultivating relationships throughout his career. He also discusses the future plans for Visible, focusing on complexity, speed, and cost in the real estate industry.


In the episode, we discuss:


• Simplifying real estate transactions and making them easier, faster, and cheaper.

• Rent App and how it works

• Taking leaps and building products we want to exist in the world.

• Advice to start a business 

• The right team

• Cultivating relationships 

• AI’s growth potential.

• Plans for Visible's 



Andrew: 


LinkedIn


Visible: 


Website

LinkedIn

Twitter


Rent App:


Website

Twitter

Instagram

Tiktok


Follow Me: 


Newsletter 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok




Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1 year ago
57 minutes 36 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
#57 Building Meaningful Blockchain Brands with Claire Millward

This week’s guest is Claire Millward, the founder of Block Digital.


Block Digital is a marketing agency for blockchain companies. 


In the episode, Claire discusses the importance of building meaningful blockchain brands and the role of organic social media content in achieving this. She explains that she decided to start Block Digital after experiencing a dip in her freelance business and wanted to rebrand and scale. 


She emphasises the importance of taking action, building relationships, and being confident in entrepreneurship. Claire also discusses the significance of mindset, habit-building, and the power of community in achieving success.


In the episode, we discuss: 


• Building meaningful blockchain brands

• Taking action and building relationships

• Mindset and habit-building

• Risk-taking 

• Building a community and seeking support from mentors


Claire: 


LinkedIn


Block Digital: 


Website


LinkedIn


Instagram


Follow Me: 


Newsletter 


LinkedIn 

 

Instagram

 

Twitter


TikTok



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1 year ago
44 minutes 29 seconds

Another Excuse | Entrepreneurship, Business, Insights, Fears
Join Byron weekly while he chats with founders, creators and self-starters about how they started and where they are now.

The aim is to understand the mental frameworks and hurdles around getting started and to find out more about their industries.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.