In this episode of the BYOB Podcast, I sit down with my good mate, business coach, and author Darren Bourke for an insightful and lively chat about what it really takes to build a successful business. Darren has spent years helping SME owners find their footing, and today, he’s spilling the secrets on how to run a business without it running you. From his early days crunching numbers at Deloitte to carving out his own path in business coaching, Darren shares how he made the leap from corporate stability to entrepreneurial freedom—and why he’d never go back.
Darren and I swap stories about the rollercoaster of business ownership, touching on the highs, the lows, and the absolute necessity of having a coach or mentor in your corner. We dive into the psychology of leadership, revealing why so many business owners find themselves stressed out, time-poor, and on the verge of burnout. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t have to be that way. Darren breaks down his three-pronged approach—consultant, coach, and mentor—and how this tailored strategy helps business owners regain control, reduce stress, and actually enjoy the businesses they’ve built.
The conversation turns to one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face: time versus money. Everyone wants more of both, but Darren explains why it’s about striking the right balance rather than chasing one at the expense of the other. I reflect on my own business journey, agreeing that finding a structure that works for you is the key to longevity and success. We also tackle one of the most overlooked aspects of business—the human element. Numbers might drive decisions, but people drive businesses, and knowing how to manage and lead effectively can make all the difference.
Darren shares his journey writing his book—a process he likens to running a business itself. It’s full of unexpected twists, requires discipline, and in the end, is all about delivering value. We also touch on Darren’s love for learning, from screenwriting courses to new business ventures, proving that curiosity and adaptability are two of the greatest assets any entrepreneur can have.
Darren also imparts some gold for anyone thinking of making the leap into business. He stresses the importance of learning your craft, embracing structure, and being brutally honest about what you’re good at (and what you’re not).
If you’re an entrepreneur—or thinking about becoming one—this episode is packed with actionable insights, a few laughs, and plenty of motivation to get out there and build something great.
