This week on Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor sits down with Laurie Seymour, an EOS implementer, and Curtis Williams, her very first client and the owner of a thriving personal training studio.
Curtis shares how the pandemic forced him to adapt, offering free Zoom classes that eventually evolved into a structured, scalable business model. Laurie, who found EOS after struggling with self-implementation, helped Curtis bring order and accountability into the business through tools like the Level 10 Meeting and the scorecard. Together, they reveal how EOS has transformed Curtis’s gym into a model built for growth.
The conversation also explores the personal side of their relationship, from Laurie regaining her health and strength through Curtis’s training, to Curtis finding clarity and confidence as a leader. With insights on defining core values, staying the course with EOS, and planning for expansion, this episode is a masterclass in how structure and discipline create freedom.
Whether you’re running a small business or looking to scale, Laurie and Curtis’s journey proves that with focus and the right tools, long-term success is well within reach.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
____________________________________________
GUESTS DETAILS:
► Laurie Seymour - LinkedIn
► Laurie Seymour - EOS Worldwide
► Curtis Williams - LinkedIn
Episode 239 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:53 – Background of the Guests
01:35 – Laurie’s Journey to Becoming an EOS Implementer
05:48 – Curtis’s Introduction to EOS
09:00 – Implementing EOS in a Personal Training Business
12:40 – Challenges and Solutions in Implementing EOS
13:37 – Impact of EOS on Business Operations
27:16 – Personal and Professional Growth
27:47 – Tips for Business Owners
41:12 – Final Thoughts and Future Plans
In another episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor welcomes EOS implementer and marketing agency owner Will Watrous, to share his remarkable business journey.
Will opens up about the stressful early days of running his agency, when explosive growth left him burnt out and barely scraping a 6% net profit. Everything changed when he discovered EOS. By embracing tools like the accountability chart and three-year picture, and partnering with an integrator, he transformed his company into a thriving, stable business delivering 34% profit.
In this inspiring conversation, Will explains why profit and cash flow are more than accounting measures, they’re leadership tools. He also shares his top tips: taking regular clarity breaks, applying the systems mindset from Work the System, and remembering that everything you need is already within reach.
Whether you’re a visionary overwhelmed by growth or a leader striving for balance, this episode offers practical insights to help you build a healthier, more profitable business and life.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUESTS DETAILS:
► Will Watrous - EOS Implementer
Episode 238 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
01:00 – EOS Journey and Initial Challenges
04:00 – Discovering EOS and Initial Implementation
05:26 – Personal Insights and EOS Tools
06:58 – Value of an EOS Implementer
15:01 – Favourite EOS Tools and Client Success Stories
19:52 – Economic Impact and Financial Education
24:58 – Impact on Team and Business Stability
28:40 – Top Tips for Better Business and Life
34:00 – Final Thoughts and Contact Information
This week on Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by venture capitalist and bestselling author Ben Wiener to unpack the art and challenges of startup pitches. With only two out of ten startups likely to succeed, Ben shares how founders can stand out using his H.E.A.R.T. framework: Hypothesis, Enormous Stakes, Alternatives, Radically Different, and Team.
From his journey in law and venture capital to writing Fever Pitch, Ben offers practical insights into what investors really want to hear and why storytelling matters as much as strategy. He explains how anticipating questions, neutralising competition early, and presenting a differentiated solution can make all the difference.
Beyond pitching, Ben emphasises the value of active reading, empathy, and paying it forward - reminding us that business success is often rooted in doing the right thing for others.
Whether you’re a startup founder, a leader refining your communication, or simply curious about what makes ideas resonate, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable tools.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUESTS DETAILS:
Episode 237 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:50 – Venture Capital and Entrepreneurial Journey
03:14 – Challenges and Successes in Venture Capital
05:58 – The Concept of “Fever Pitch”
10:48 – The H.E.A.R.T Framework
51:08 – Practical Applications and Benefits of the Framework
52:49 – Ben’s Investment Philosophy and Personal Insights
53:04 – Advice for Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders
This week on Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor tackles the trap of “smoking hopium”, when leaders rely on misleading metrics that give a false sense of security. From the all-green illusion of vanity measures to the always-red fantasy of unrealistic targets, Debra unpacks why both approaches damage trust, morale, and results.
Through real-world stories and practical tools, she explains how to replace hopium with clarity: setting outcome-driven measurables, building scorecards that truly predict success, and fostering a culture where honest reds and greens are celebrated.
Whether you’re a visionary frustrated with slow progress or a leader striving for accountability, this episode will equip you to measure what matters, set achievable goals, and build momentum the right way, one honest metric at a time.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
Episode 236 Chapters:
00:00 – Smoking Hopium: Introduction to Data Scorecards
02:57 – The All-Green Illusion: Measuring the Wrong Things
03:38 – The Always-Red Fantasy: Setting Realistic Targets
05:45 – Replacing Hopium with Clarity: Practical Steps
08:36 – The Importance of Numbers: Clarity, Behaviour, and Action
08:50 – Scorecard Measurables: Sales, Marketing, HR, and Finance
27:44 – Building Trust in Numbers: Avoiding Manipulation
28:52 – Fixing a Broken Scorecard: A Seven-Step Reset
29:52 – The Five Leadership Abilities: Simplify, Delegate, Predict, Systemise, and Structure
32:10 – Systemise and Structure: Ensuring Consistency and Accountability
37:05 – Building a Culture of Truth: Celebrating Honest Results
38:22 – Call to Action: Auditing and Improving Scorecards
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor dives into a challenge many visionaries face, having too many brilliant ideas and not enough follow-through. With energy and insight, she unpacks how constant pivots and unfinished projects can create chaos, overwhelm teams, and stall real progress.
Debra shares how the right mix of focus, data, and discipline can turn that visionary energy into lasting results. She explores the power of committing to just 3–7 priorities per quarter, using an integrator to filter and execute ideas, and building a scorecard that predicts the health of your business, not just reports on the past.
Through real-world success stories, including one business that boosted revenue by 20% while reducing workloads, Debra shows how less really can be more. She highlights practical tools like the Eisenhower matrix, clarity breaks, and leading indicators to help visionaries lead with confidence and reduce anxiety.
If you’ve ever felt like your ideas are running ahead of your team or your sanity, this episode will show you how to channel your creativity, trust your data, and build a business that grows without the chaos.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
Episode 235 Chapters:
00:29 – Introduction
00:00 – Visionaries and Their Impact on Businesses
02:04 – The Visionary Trap and Whiplash Culture
03:11 – The Role of Data in Providing Freedom and Clarity
06:49 – Strategies for Managing Visionary Energy
10:39 – Implementing Idea Filters and Delegation
14:25 – Embracing Data and Scorecards for Growth
In a lighthearted twist, this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life sees host Debra Chantry-Taylor joined by two very special guests, her dogs, Hermes and Apollo. Together, they explore the simple but powerful wisdom we can learn from our furry friends.
From Hermes’ worries about separation to Apollo’s critique of human judgement, the pups deliver big messages in adorable ways. Through their lens, Debra reflects on timeless truths: the power of living in the moment, showing unconditional love, and letting go of stress.
The episode is filled with warmth, laughter, and gentle reminders to embrace gratitude, make time for play, and prioritise what really matters, like bottoms, bones, cuddles, and smoochies.
Whether you're a dog lover or just in need of a reset, this episode will lift your spirits and nudge you towards a more joyful way of being.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
CONNECT WITH APOLLO & HERMES:
► Apollo Chantry-Taylor - LinkedIn
► Hermes Chantry-Taylor - LinkedIn
Episode 234 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction & Lessons from Dogs
00:10 – Be in the Moment
01:00 – Judge Less and Love More
01:31 – Always Be Grateful
01:46 – Play and Relax
02:11 – What’s Really Important
In another episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Lacey Hayes, a seasoned EOS Implementer with a deep background in hospice care and organisational growth. Lacey shares how EOS helped scale a hospice business from $45 million to $78 million, and the lessons that apply to any growth-focused business.
They explore the tools that made the biggest impact, like the meeting pulse and Level 10 meetings, and how they shifted communication and accountability across a team of over 400 employees. Lacey stresses the importance of anchoring tough conversations in the company’s purpose and vision, using core values as a compass for leadership.
Together, they talk about how to spot the right people for the right seats, how to keep values alive throughout the organisation, and why external facilitators are crucial in complex settings like family businesses.
Whether you're new to EOS or deep in implementation, you’ll gain actionable ideas to keep your team focused and connected to a larger mission.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUEST DETAIL:
► EOS Implementer - Lacey Hayes
Episode 233 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
03:04 – Transition to EOS Implementation
05:16 – Impact of EOS Tools and Meetings
08:51 – Structuring the Organisation and Accountability
11:21 – Processes and People in EOS
16:43 – Using EOS Tools for Evaluation and Improvement
24:01 – The Role of Purpose and Vision in EOS
30:43 – Anchoring Hard Conversations in Purpose
33:23 – Engaging the Entire Team in the Vision
36:24 – Final Tips and Recommendations
This week on Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Adam Harris to give you the inside scoop on the upcoming EOS Conference! With over 220,000 EOS users and 850+ implementers worldwide, this year’s event promises to be the biggest yet.
Taking place on September 5th at Pullman on the Park in Melbourne, the conference will feature global EOS leaders, including Mark O’Donnell and Don Tinney, plus hands-on workshops and breakout streams tailored for every stage of EOS implementation. Debra also shares details on her session, “Are you self-implementing or self-inflicting EOS?”, while Adam reveals what makes this event an unmissable opportunity for business leaders.
Plus, Debra and Adam share insider tips on securing discounted tickets and what attendees can expect from this powerful day of learning, networking, and growth.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
EOS CONFERENCE DETAILS:
► Use DEBVIP or ADAVIP for 50% off tickets!
► Email Debra at debra@businessaction.com.au or Adam at adam@businessaction.com.au for free ticket offers.
Episode 232 Chapters:
00:00 – EOS Conference Overview
02:39 – Details of the EOS Conference
04:22 – Breakout Streams and Workshops
05:26 – Event Details and Ticket Information
09:17 – Personal Experiences and Benefits of EOS
09:32 – Annual Planning and Team Building
12:13 – Celebrating Successes and Setting Long-Term Goals
14:24 – Execution and Problem-Solving
16:17 – Final Recap and Encouragement
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by seasoned EOS Implementer and entrepreneur Scott Rusnak to talk about one of the most overlooked skills in business: the power of saying no.
From launching his own software company to relocating internationally and embracing EOS, Scott shares the lessons he’s learned about boundaries, self-care, and living intentionally. He introduces the concept of Dunbar’s number - a guide for who gets your energy, and explains how clarity breaks, core values, and a bigger sense of purpose can help entrepreneurs avoid burnout and find real fulfilment.
Whether you're a people pleaser, a business owner on the edge, or just looking to better manage your time and relationships, this episode will give you the tools to pause, prioritise, and protect what matters most.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUEST DETAILS:
Episode 231 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction and Guest Overview
00:15 – Scott’s Career Journey
05:53 – Transition to EOS Implementation
08:26 – The Importance of Saying No
17:18 – Practical Tips for Saying No
18:22 – Balancing Personal and Professional Life
18:40 – The Role of Core Values and Purpose
38:40 – Cultural Shifts and Personal Growth
40:06 – Final Thoughts and Future Plans
In this special episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor shares her recent guest appearance on Notes From the Executive with host Mina Amso. Together, they unpack the power of EOS® (Entrepreneurial Operating System) and how it helps business leaders simplify operations, gain clarity, and scale with confidence.
Debra shares her own experiences - both wins and setbacks- while exploring what makes a truly effective meeting, why entrepreneurs often feel stuck, and how systems can create freedom rather than restrict it. You’ll hear real-world examples of the challenges business owners face and how the EOS framework brings structure, accountability, and balance.
Tune in to how EOS can help you build a business that truly works for your life, not the other way around.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
ORIGINAL EPISODE DETAIL:
► Notes From The Executive Podcast - Debra's Episode
Episode 230 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:50 – The Concept of a Perfect Meeting
02:35 – Target Audience and Common Business Challenges
03:07 – Emotional Moments in Boardrooms
05:05 – Entrepreneurs Feeling Stuck
05:42 – Lack of Vision and Freedom in Business
07:19 – The Role of Systems and Structure
08:46 – Turning Points for Businesses Close to Collapse
11:21 – Framework for Business Clarity
14:47 – People and Data in Business Operations
25:04 – Identifying and Solving Business Issues
30:10 – Processes and Systems in Business
36:53 – Personal Experiences and Lessons Learnt
41:22 – Impact of Personal Losses on Business Philosophy
48:48 – Final Thoughts and Contact Information
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by EOS implementer Matt Hansen, a former aerospace engineer turned business coach. Matt shares how EOS tools like the Level 10 Meeting, quarterly conversations, and clarity breaks transformed his journey from baling hay to leading a $10 million advanced manufacturing business.
They explore why healthy teams, clear roles, and regular time for reflection are essential for scaling with intention. Plus, Matt unpacks insights from The Culture Map and explains why he loves working with bold builders and makers in construction and manufacturing.
If you're in construction, manufacturing, or simply want to grow your business without losing your balance, this episode offers real strategies with real results.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUEST’S DETAIL:
Episode 229 Chapters:
00:24 – Introduction and Guest Overview
04:32 – Transition to EOS Implementation
07:12 – EOS Implementation Journey
09:45 – Favourite EOS Tools
12:12 – Client Success Stories
23:46 – Cultural Insights and Final Tips
30:19 – Personal Preferences and Conclusion
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor sits down with energy coach Richard Ellis to explore how small, consistent changes can dramatically improve your health and your business.
From the importance of getting outside in the morning to the impact of nose breathing, Rich shares simple yet powerful strategies for improving energy, focus, and overall wellbeing. He shares his journey from corporate life to coaching, revealing how 1% improvements in sleep, diet, and movement lead to big results.
Rich also unpacks the ripple effects of wellbeing programs in the workplace, from improved productivity to better culture and engagement.
It’s a conversation full of practical advice and fresh perspective on leading well by living well.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUEST’S DETAIL:
Episode 228 Chapters:
00:33 – Introduction and Guest Background
02:01 – Richard Ellis’ Career Journey and Philosophy
03:08 – The Importance of Health and Energy in Business
04:45 – Sleep: The Foundation of Health
19:21 – Balanced Diet and Gut Health
23:46 – Movement and Mobility
30:52 – The Role of Coaching and Accountability
33:51 – Benefits of Corporate Wellbeing Programmes
37:56 – Top Tips for Listeners
Welcome to another episode of Better Business, Better Life. Join Host, Debra Chantry-Taylor as she sits down with guest, Lena Ridley to talk about her journey from a 26-year career in financial services to becoming a passionate EOS Implementer.
Lena shares how embracing the EOS framework helped her shift from the day-to-day grind and how tools like the Accountability Chart, Core Values, and data tracking helped align her team, clarify roles, and drive real growth.
She also opens up about the shift from integrator to visionary and why embracing the EOS Life - where business success and personal fulfilment go hand in hand - was the key to her happiness and growth.
If you’re ready to restructure, refocus, and reconnect with why you started your business, this episode offers practical tools and fresh perspective.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUEST’S DETAIL:
► Book a 15mins call with Lena
Episode 227 Chapters:
00:35 - Introduction
01:49 - EOS Implementation and Personal Journey
03:44 - Transition from Integrator to Visionary
07:56 - Introduction to EOS and Its Impact
09:34 - Personal Aha Moment and Business Growth
15:51 - Becoming an EOS Implementer
18:33 - Core Values and People Analyzer
24:05 - Impact of EOS on Clients
30:28 - Top Tips and Tools for EOS Implementation
36:38 - Final Thoughts and Contact Information
In another episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor chats with Jan Lehman, CEO of CTC Productivity and author of Work Smart, Do More - about how to create happier, more effective workplaces combining EOS tools with Microsoft 365 and AI.
Jan shares how leaders can stop making assumptions, start leveraging tech like Microsoft CoPilot, and invest in their teams to work smarter - not just harder. From simplifying software use to creating happier, more productive workplaces, this episode is packed with insights that will help you reduce stress and get more done.
If your team is busy but not productive, this episode will help you work smarter - not just harder.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUEST’S DETAIL:
► Grab your Copy of Work Smart Do More
Episode 226 - Jan Lehman: Boosting Productivity with EOS + Microsoft 365
Chapters:
00:29 - Guest Overview
01:37 - Jan's Career Journey
02:51 - Productivity and Happiness
06:30 - Challenges and Opportunities in Productivity
10:13 - Adopting Microsoft 365 and AI Tools
16:17 - EOS Integration and Personal Impact
32:15 - Top Tips for Improving Productivity
36:35 - AI and CoPilot in Microsoft
40:05 - Final Thoughts and Resources
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor speaks with EOS implementer and business coach Tricia Drake about her journey from the dental manufacturing world to helping entrepreneurs transform their businesses.
Tricia shares how EOS tools like the Accountability Chart and Delegate & Elevate help leaders gain clarity, reduce overwhelm, and build stronger teams, particularly in the construction industry. She also opens up about her personal journey through breast cancer, and how a mindset shift played a key role in both her recovery and her leadership approach.
From real-world EOS wins to the power of self-reflection, this episode is packed with insights to help you grow your business and yourself.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUEST’S DETAIL:
► Tricia Drake - EOS Implementer
Chapters:
00:34 - Introduction and Guest Background
02:46 - Tricia's Journey to Becoming an EOS Implementer
07:22 - EOS Tools and Their Impact
13:33 - Mindset and Personal Transformation
24:39 - Applying Mindset Techniques in Business
25:19 - Client Success Stories and EOS Implementation
28:57 - Industry-Specific Insights and Tips
30:48 - Top Tips and Tools for Business Owners
34:48 - Conclusion and Contact Information
Welcome to Better Business, Better Life. In this episode, host Debra Chantry-Taylor breaks down why EOS Rocks are a better fit than OKRs for entrepreneurial and fast-growing businesses.
She discusses how OKRs often lead to confusion, scattered focus, and poor follow-through while EOS Rocks bring clarity, accountability, and weekly progress. With practical tips on setting quarterly priorities, assigning clear ownership, and using tools like the Accountability Chart, Scorecard, and Level 10 Meetings, Debra shows how to build a simple, effective execution system that actually works.
If you're feeling stretched too thin by endless objectives, this episode will show you how to simplify, refocus, and gain real traction.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
Chapters:
00:26 - Introduction to EOS Rocks vs. OKRs
01:07 - Defining OKRs and EOS Rocks
01:58 - Challenges with OKRs in Entrepreneurial Businesses
03:19 - The Power of EOS Rocks and Accountability
05:35 - Real-Life Examples of EOS Rocks in Action
07:08 - Conclusion and Call to Action
Welcome back to another episode of Better Business, Better Life. Host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined once again by family business expert, Sara B. Stern to tackle one of the most critical and often avoided topics of family businesses: succession planning.
On this second part of the family business special, they discuss why successful transitions take time (often up to eight years), how to start the conversation early, and why clearly separating family, ownership, and business roles is key. Sara also shares practical tools like EOS and the Three-Circle Model to help families define legacy, align on goals, and make confident decisions about the future.
If you're thinking about handing over the reins or just want to set your business up for long-term success, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-life insights.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUEST’S DETAIL:
► Grab a copy of Start Here: A Guide for Family Business Succession and
► Grab a copy of Married to the Family Business
Chapters:
00:32 - Introduction
02:15 - Sara B. Stern's Background and Expertise
04:23 - Challenges in Family Business Succession Planning
07:25 - Importance of Defining Legacy and Ownership Philosophy
09:29 - Operating the Business Professionally
21:38 - Addressing Conflicts and Seeking Professional Help
22:24 - Real-Life Examples and Practical Advice
26:12 - Final Tips and Tools for Succession Planning
31:55 - Conclusion and Future Plans
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Sara B. Stern, an EOS implementer and family business expert, for part one of a powerful two-part series on navigating the complex intersection of family dynamics and business strategy.
Together, they explore the Harvard three-circle family business model and how to apply EOS tools to create clarity, define roles, and manage conflict in family-run businesses. Sara shares practical insights on fairness across family, business, and ownership circles, the importance of clearly defined roles like Visionary and Integrator, and why conflict can be healthy if handled in the right context.
If you're navigating blurred roles, tension, or unclear expectations on leading a multi-generational company or just beginning succession planning, this episode offers essential tools for building a stronger business and healthier family relationships.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUEST’S DETAIL:
► Grab a Copy of Start Here: A Guide for Family Business Succession and Married to the Family Business
Chapters:
00:32 - Introduction
02:12 - Balancing Family Dynamics and Business Strategy
03:38 - Challenges in Family Business Dynamics
05:18 - Defining Fairness in Family Business
08:21 - Role Assignment and Succession Planning
11:14 - The Importance of the Owner's Box
20:54 - Handling Conflict in Family Businesses
23:10 - Practical Tips for Family Business Owners
32:21 - Recommended Books for Family Business Owners
Welcome to Better Business, Better Life. In this episode, host Debra Chantry-Taylor tackles a common challenge in family businesses and professional services firms: too many people wearing too many hats.
She explains how too many hats, like founders micromanaging or family members in the wrong roles, can slow growth and drain energy. Debra also introduces powerful tools like the EOS Accountability Chart, GWC framework, and RACI model with an S to bring structure, clarity, and accountability back into the business.
If your team is stretched thin or unsure who’s doing what, this episode will help you untangle the mess and move forward with confidence.
Tune in to learn how structure leads to confidence, where confidence drives results.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
Chapters:
00:08 - Problem of Too Many Hats in Family Businesses
01:46 - Complexity in Family Businesses
02:18 - Using the EOS Accountability Chart
04:19 - Example of a Multi-Generational Family Business
04:34 - RACI Tool with an S for Complex Businesses
06:46 - Cost of Inaction in Family Businesses
08:55 - Tough Conversations and Emotional Triggers
09:42 - Conclusion
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by guest, Michelle Taylor, a Financial Advisor from Gambin Financial Group to talk about the critical role financial management plays in business success.
Michelle shares her personal journey from surviving leukaemia to building a career helping entrepreneurs take control of their finances. Together, they unpack common financial mistakes, the power of having a personal board of directors, and strategies to avoid "shiny object syndrome." She also introduces her Women in Wealth community, designed to empower women to take control of their financial futures.
If you want to future-proof your business and personal finances, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.
Tune in to explore essential tips for creating lasting financial strength.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUEST’S DETAIL:
► Gambin Financial Group Website
Chapters:
00:25 - Introduction
03:38 - Michelle's Personal Journey and Financial Lessons
07:40 - Entrepreneurial Challenges and Financial Management
25:09 - Building a Personal Board of Directors
30:27 - Financial Tips for Entrepreneurs
36:02 - Michelle's Women in Wealth Program
