What does it take to scale fast without losing yourself? In this episode, I’m joined by Kelly Duckworth, co-founder and CEO of The Care Collective, who went from “helping with paperwork” at 22 to building a seven-figure, bootstrapped home-care company.
Kelly shares the truth behind rapid growth (ageism, burnout, rebuilding systems) and learning to set boundaries without apology. We dive into strategy that sticks, hiring and trialling middle management, and why resilience often looks like messy iteration instead of perfection.
This conversation is part of our CEO Series on the Honest Business Podcast, where we sit down with inspiring founders to uncover what it really looks like to lead and grow a business on your own terms.
Key Points:
The glamour myth vs. real entrepreneurship (01:30)
From “helping Mum” to seven figures bootstrapped (16:37)
Boundaries, burnout, and rebuilding the business... again (27:17)
Hiring middle management: trials, probation, and trust (38:49)
“Be afraid and do it anyway” resilience without the highlight reel (49:09)
Preparing for maternity: systems, handovers, and saying no (57:43)
Connect with Kelly on...
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-duckworth-0b0484184/?originalSubdomain=je
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
What does it really take to run a creative business without stress or burnout? In today’s episode, I’m joined by designer and mentor Cat Byrne, who built a six-figure studio that stays booked out peacefully months in advance.
Cat shares how she went from charging £400 for projects to confidently landing five-figure clients, all while working just two to three days a week and prioritising family and freedom. We dive into pricing, leadership, and the practical strategies that make a creative business both profitable and sustainable.
If you’ve ever wondered whether peace and success can co-exist, this conversation will show you how.
This conversation is part of our CEO Series on the Honest Business Podcast, where we sit down with inspiring founders to uncover what it really looks like to lead and grow a business on your own terms.
Key Points:
Why your business doesn’t have to be stressful to succeed (2:44)
What a “spacious” business looks like day-to-day (3:34)
The pricing shifts that create room for growth (13:28)
Why starting a business is your first leadership decision (28:27)
How to be fully yourself in business and still succeed (50:53)
Connect with Cat on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gattocreativementor/
Website https://www.mentor.gattoweb.com/
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Do all products really need an automated sales funnel? Today I'm answering some of your most asked questions when it comes to sales funnels!
Whether you're questioning what is the best freebie to create or how to create a funnel for your one-on-one services, this episode has the answers. Tune in for practical advice to ensure your funnel aligns with customer needs and drives better results.
Key Points:
Does every product need a funnel? (1:55)
How do I know which freebie to use for my specific offer? (5:00)
What freebie works best for selling one on one services? (16:15)
How can I integrate upselling or cross-selling into my automated sales funnel? (30:14)
What to do if my funnel isn't converting? (35:59)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Why are potential clients hesitating to invest in your consulting services? Today I'm looking at the common barriers that might prevent them from purchasing.
From psychological to practical obstacles, I explore how price sensitivity, scepticism about results, fear of change, and poor timing could impact why people are not buying.
Plus, I share some key strategies to help you start making sales, refine your sales approach, and boost your consulting businesses.
Resources Mentioned:
Streamline Your Strategy
Episode 104 - How To Effectively Communicate The Value of Your Offer/Service
Key Points:
Price Sensitivity (00:02:10)
Scepticism About Results (00:03:07)
Scepticism About the Process (00:04:23)
Fear of Change (00:05:20)
Perception of Self-Sufficiency (00:06:17)
Timing Issues (00:07:14)
Personality of the Consultant (00:08:04)
Misalignment of Expectations (00:10:07)
In-Person vs Virtual Services (00:11:05)
Complexity of the Service (00:12:01)
Long-Term Commitment Anxiety (00:14:08)
Clarity of Unique Selling Proposition (00:15:22)
Doubts About Expertise (00:16:10)
Lack of Urgency (00:16:36)
Quality of Offering (00:20:33)
Comfort Zones in Consulting (00:22:31)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
How do you successfully manage and build a successful freelance team, especially in a virtual environment? In this episode, I look at other teams and my own and explore the challenges and strategies of leading freelance teams.
From looking at the key concerns, like balancing freelancers' business pursuits with their work for your company, I highlight in this episode some important aspects you can not overlook.
Whether new to freelancing or looking to improve your current team setup, this episode provides valuable tips to boost productivity, maintain accountability, and create a cohesive, high-performing freelance team.
Key points in this episode:
Question 1: Team Members' Personal Business Growth (03:50)
Question 2: Communication Structure (11:00)
Question 3: Building Team Culture Virtually (18:12)
Question 4: Monitor Productivity & Quality (25:50)
Question 5: Having A Dual Team (35:52)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Are you facing profit erosion in your business? Or want to know what it is so that you can avoid it if you are ever faced with it? Today I explain what profit erosion is and why it matters. I look at the key factors that slowly chip away at profits, including inflation, pricing missteps, over-servicing clients, inefficiencies in staffing, and increased market competition.
Tune in to hear my strategies to help you fight back, like conducting regular pricing reviews, streamlining operations, and keeping up with market trends. By recognising the signs early, you can take proactive steps to protect profitability in today's evolving economy!
Key points in this episode:
Understanding Profit Erosion (00:01:00)
Recognising Profit Erosion (00:04:06)
Time and Inflation (00:06:45)
Pricing Problems (00:08:31)
Over Servicing Clients (00:10:33)
Volume vs. Demand-Based Pricing (00:12:44)
Staffing Issues (00:17:02)
Cash Flow Management (00:19:07)
Business Analysis (00:27:12)
Adjusting Pricing Strategies (00:32:17)
Shifting Target Market (00:34:11)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Are you building a business that truly aligns with the life you want, or are you just reacting to your current circumstances? This episode will help you see the importance of creating a business that supports your dream life, rather than one that merely addresses present challenges.
I discuss the pitfalls of decision-making based on immediate situations, which can lead to stagnation and missed
opportunities. This episode is designed to inspire you to take actionable steps toward a more fulfilling business and life.
Key points in this episode:
The Trap of Current Circumstances (00:00:53)
Building Resilience (00:03:17)
Support Systems (00:04:23)
Daily Actions (00:07:25)
Identifying Old Habits (00:09:11)
The Impact of Trends on Business (00:11:18)
Feeling Trapped in Success (00:12:12)
Burnout (00:15:25)
Fitting Business Around Life (00:16:44)
Finding Joy in Business (00:20:58)
Navigating Resistance and Fear (00:22:49)
Betting on Yourself (00:27:50)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Are you struggling to find the right clients for your business? This week I explore the importance of attracting clients who align with your values and goals.
To help you avoid some of my past pitfalls, I share some of my strategies for identifying your ideal clients, from refining your messaging to selecting the right marketing channels. I also discuss the value of pre-screening clients, setting clear boundaries, and drafting detailed contracts to foster successful, long-term partnerships.
Tune in for actionable insights to improve your client acquisition strategy and drive your business success.
Key points in this episode:
The Cost of Misaligned Clients (00:00:50)
Identifying Your Ideal Client (00:04:58)
The Importance of Saying No (00:06:53)
Defining the Perfect Client vs. Offer (00:07:53)
Refining Your Messaging (00:09:02)
Selecting Appropriate Marketing Channels (00:11:44)
Aligning Language with Client Needs (00:16:38)
Being Direct in Communication (00:19:10)
Creating Touchpoints for Attraction (00:21:09)
Ensuring Effective Referrals (00:23:33)
Pre-Screening Potential Clients (00:24:31)
Identifying Red Flags (00:26:53)
Establishing Clear Contracts & Onboarding Process (00:29:54)
Continuous Client Acquisition Strategy (00:32:04)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Why do so many business strategies fall short? The answer lies in the often-overlooked importance of tailoring your approach to your specific business context.
In this episode, I dive into the critical factors that can make or break a strategy, including timing, execution speed, internal alignment, and operational volume. I also explore the essential roles of mindset, leadership, and clear communication in successful strategy implementation.
Struggling to translate your vision into tangible results? Learn more about my Streamline Your Strategy service. Let me help you identify your unique challenges and opportunities, and create a roadmap for success. https://mayjames.com/streamline
Key points in this episode:
Common Frustrations (00:56)
Importance of Ongoing Support (03:48)
Strategies Not Built for You (04:41)
Time for Strategy to Kick In (07:32)
Alignment of Business Strategies (12:43)
Business Model Compatibility (17:41)
Mindset and Leadership Issues (22:53)
Market and Customer Trends (28:00)
Measuring Success Metrics (35:02)
Streamlining Your Strategy (41:12)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Are you ready to embrace the pivotal moments that can transform your entrepreneurial journey? In this episode I explore these crucial turning points and how to leverage them for growth.
My aim is to guide you in navigating transitions effectively. This episode is designed to inspire and empower you to face challenges and seize opportunities with enthusiasm and courage, driving your business forward.
Get instant access to 8 curated playlists, packed full of juicy podcast episodes to grow your business sustainably: https://mayjames.com/playlists
Key points in this episode:
Capitalising on Change (00:03:04)
Deciding Your Intentions (00:05:10)
Expanding Personal Brands (00:06:16)
Embracing Excitement (00:10:42)
Defining Your Niche (00:11:44)
Understanding Client Preferences (00:12:40)
Seasons of Business (00:14:50)
Marrying Action and Mindset (00:15:56)
Reflection Paralysis (00:18:03)
Learning the Balance (00:19:06)
The Role of Personal Development (00:23:19)
Navigating New Business Experiences (00:26:08)
Top Tips for Capitalising on Change (00:29:13)
The Importance of Reflection (00:30:06)
Seeking Support and Enjoyment (00:31:09)
Goal Setting and Visualisation (00:32:58)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Struggling to find the perfect line between sharing your personal life and protecting your privacy as a business owner? You're not alone. This episode dives deep into the art of personal branding without compromising your private life.
Discover how to identify what content truly resonates with your audience while setting clear boundaries. You'll learn how to craft a winning content strategy, manage online reputation, and confidently navigate the digital landscape. This episode empowers you to own your brand while safeguarding your personal life.
Key points in this episode:
The Importance of Privacy (00:01:01)
Blending Personal and Professional (00:03:01)
Sharing Personal Life vs. Professional Branding (00:08:16)
Understanding Customer Needs (00:09:42)
Why Would People Care (00:10:54)
Avoiding the 'Friendzone' (00:11:50)
Setting Personal Boundaries (00:12:41)
Managing Risks of Sharing (00:15:54)
Dealing with Hate and Criticism (00:17:48)
Overcoming Fear of Judgment & Imposter Syndrome (00:19:27)
The Importance of Consistency (00:24:16)
Navigating Lack of Direction (00:26:46)
Returning to Posting After a Break (00:28:25)
Getting Comfortable on Camera (00:31:55)
Understanding Engagement Metrics (00:33:31)
Defining Success Online (00:35:35)
Commitment to Long-Term Sharing (00:36:31)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Want to fast-forward your business success? This episode is a no-nonsense dive into the 10 lessons I wish I’d known from day one. We’re cutting to the chase and sharing the hard-won lessons that could save you countless hours of trial and error. From avoiding costly mistakes to seizing untapped opportunities, this episode is packed with practical advice to supercharge your business growth.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, everyone can benefit from a fresh perspective.
Key points in this episode:
Lesson 1 (1:03)
Lesson 2 (1:56)
Lesson 3 (3:24)
Lesson 4 (6:30)
Lesson 5 (7:24)
Lesson 6 (10:14)
Lesson 7 (12:17)
Lesson 8 (17:13)
Lesson 9 (20:12)
Lesson 10 (24:42)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Many entrepreneurs dream of launching a successful product-based business. But the competitive landscape can be daunting. Today, I'm here to guide you through the essential strategies needed to thrive in this dynamic environment.
In this episode I dive into effective pricing tactics, launch strategies, customer reward programmes, and the transformative power of leveraging your customers for brand development.
Join me for a wealth of valuable knowledge and practical guidance designed to equip you for entrepreneurial success.
Key points in this episode:
Selecting a niche market (00:02:05)
Building a strong brand (00:07:21)
Community building (00:09:39)
Pricing strategy and launch models (00:10:42)
Customer rewards and consumer-driven brand building (00:13:09)
Market disruption and positioning (00:17:10)
Visual Brand and Differentiation (00:20:53)
Business Value and Clarity (00:24:31)
Launch Strategy (00:25:35)
Social Media and Marketing Strategy (00:27:16)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Do you often hear objections like "I'll wait" or "now's not the right time" from potential clients? In this episode, I dive into strategies to address this common sales challenge.
I explore how understanding your customer's perspective can transform your sales approach. Learn how to adapt your process to align with customer behaviours, discover techniques like pricing transparency and consistent messaging to make a compelling case for immediate action.
This episode is packed with practical insights for nurturing leads and effectively communicating the value of your offerings, helping you turn objections into opportunities.
Key points in this episode:
Objection Handling in Sales (00:59)
Business Model Design and Sales Process (01:47)
Average Lead Time and Sales Process (03:56)
Value and Urgency in Sales (06:03)
Decision Making and Pursuing Leads (09:48)
Messaging and Problem Awareness (15:19)
Building urgency (20:05)
Sharing examples of regret (21:04)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Do you feel like you could be accomplishing more?
This episode is your guide to a thriving second half of the year. We explore the emotions behind your progress and setbacks, helping you envision clear goals for the rest of 2024.
Ready to take action? I share 5 powerful questions to address task avoidance, half-hearted efforts, and people-pleasing tendencies. Learn how to conquer your fears, set healthy boundaries, and boost your productivity in the months ahead.
Key points in this episode:
Reflecting on Achievements (00:02:37)
Identifying Areas of Improvement (00:03:50)
Setting Year-End Goals (00:05:00)
Addressing Procrastination and Avoidance (00:08:22)
Pleasing Others in Business (00:14:52)
Confronting Fears (00:17:00)
Commitment to Work (00:19:08)
What are you prepared to work for? (00:21:06)
Goal alignment (00:23:09)
Building self-discipline and emotional intelligence (00:26:31)
Doubling productivity and commitment (00:29:26)
Strategic time management (00:31:06)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
How can you capitalise on a wave of momentum in your business? Today, I'm exploring key indicators such as product sales, rapid social media growth, and increased inquiries. This episode gives you practical steps, like building an email list and creating short-term cash injections, to help you ride that wave successfully.
Tune in to get educated and be ready for when that moment comes, so you can make the most of your business momentum!
Key points in this episode:
Identifying signs of business momentum (01:00)
Strategies for short-term actions (03:22)
Long-Term planning (08:16)
Implementing high-ticket offers (10:01)
Strategies for continuing marketing efforts (13:08)
Embracing and managing growth (16:58)
Utilising the momentum (18:46)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Have you faced a dip in revenue and wondered how to stay afloat? Today I am going to be exploring strategies for navigating financial downturns.
In this episode I talk about keeping a positive mindset, managing your cash flow, and reducing costs effectively. Plus I share common causes of revenue dips, like market shifts and personal decisions, and highlight niche opportunities and supplier negotiations as potential solutions.
Addressing the stigma around earning less, this episode is to reassure you that it doesn't reflect your abilities. Tune in and embrace this period as an opportunity for growth and transformation.
Resources Mentioned:
Business Refresh Workbook https://mayjames.com/refreshworkbook
Key points in this episode:
Owning the season of making less money (02:31)
Assessing the reasons for income dip (04:04)
Finding opportunities (07:12)
Evaluating expenses, cutting costs, and negotiating terms (08:22)
Strategies to implement (12:14)
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Hit a revenue slump? Feeling lost? You're not alone. This episode dives deep into the reasons behind dips and equips you with the tools to bounce back stronger.
I explore maintaining a positive mindset alongside actionable strategies for financial management and sales. Plus, I discuss self-care and when to seek expert help. You'll leave this episode feeling empowered with a clear path to overcome this hurdle and emerge even stronger.
Key points in this episode:
Identifying the Cause (00:00:57)
Self-Sabotage and Emotional Intelligence (00:03:03)
Pivoting or Head-Down Moment (00:06:45)
Cash Flow Assessment (00:07:45)
Generating Quick Cash (00:10:31)
Becoming A Sales Machine (00:17:18)
Client Challenges (00:19:06)
Having Self-Belief (00:20:58)
Strategic Approach (00:22:34)
Learn more about May's Accelerator:
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
How crucial is accountability in driving business growth? In today's episode I tackle this often overlooked yet essential topic.
Accountability keeps you from slipping into comfort zones, steering you toward your evolving goals. I look at four key areas: clarity, responsibility, ownership, and action, which are vital for maintaining momentum and achieving success.
I also discuss how accountability influences decision-making, team dynamics, and the cultivation of a high-accountability culture. Tune in and get ready to address accountability gaps in your operations.
Key points in this episode:
The importance of accountability (00:01:07)
The role of accountability in personal growth (00:02:18)
Different forms of accountability (00:05:34)
Accountability and business success (00:06:45)
Accountability in action (00:08:57)
Accountability's influence on decision-making (00:11:41)
Challenges faced by growing businesses and accountability (00:14:44)
Accountability and team culture (00:17:42)
Predictable growth and accountability (00:18:54)
Identifying accountability gaps (00:19:55)
The benefits of accountability (00:21:40)
Simplicity of accountability (00:23:05)
If you're looking to supercharge your progress, the applications are open for Cohort 5 of May's Accelerator: https://mayjames.com/ma
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com
Are you aligning your business model with your goals? In this episode I explore how crucial business models are for success and growth.
I also touch on differentiation, consistent revenue generation, and the importance of stakeholder feedback and data-driven decisions. I advised against trend-chasing and highlighted the value of strategic planning and professional guidance when implementing changes.
Join me as we delve into the transformative potential of optimizing your business model for long-term success.
Key points in this episode:
Indicators that a business model needs an update (00:01:12)
Impact of a well-designed business model (00:02:54)
Understanding what a business model is (00:04:07)
Differentiation of business models (00:05:16)
Aligning personal and business goals with the business model (00:09:45)
Considerations for different business scenarios (00:12:42)
Effect of the business model on profitability (00:18:20)
Is your business model the right one? (00:20:40)
Struggle to generate revenue (00:22:40)
Giving yourself permission to change (00:24:51)
Avoiding trend-based decisions (00:28:00)
Planning business model changes (00:30:05)
Creating a stable and robust business (00:32:43)
Exploring transformation through business model changes (00:35:27)
If you're looking to supercharge your progress, the applications are open for Cohort 5 of May's Accelerator: https://mayjames.com/ma
Connect with May on...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/may.james_/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/maylaurajames/
Website https://www.mayjames.com