Here’s Episode 79 of the Live & Linking podcast, and this week I’m joined by Craig Allen—aka the Black Knight—for a bold and brilliant conversation on mindset, growth, and leadership.
Craig is the founder of Different Mindset, where he helps business owners develop what he calls the Five Pillars Growth Method. If you’ve ever felt stuck, doubted yourself, or just wanted someone to give you a kick up the backside this is for you.
We unpack the mental roadblocks that hold so many business owners back: imposter syndrome, limiting beliefs, and the fear of standing out.
Craig explains how these thoughts take root, often from past experiences, and why they sneak up on us even when things are going well. He shares how he helps clients reframe their thinking, set bolder goals, and stop underselling themselves.
There’s loads in here about how to lead yourself first, before you try leading a team.
This episode is full of lightbulb moments, hard truths, and some top-tier banter from the comments section (thanks, Jeff and co.). Whether you’re just starting out or trying to break past a growth plateau, you’ll walk away with fresh tools and renewed energy.
Date & Time: 7/11/2025 17:55:57 Name: Craig Allan
Email: craig.allan@different-mindset.co.uk Website: www.different-mindset.co.uk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-allan/
YoutTube https://www.youtube.com/@DifferentMindset-CA
craig.allan@different-mindset.co.uk www.different-mindset.co.uk https://www.youtube.com/@DifferentMindset-CA "CRAIG THE COACH
I’m a Business & Executive Coach with deep, real-world experience in Business Management, Growth and Development across multiple sectors, over a career spanning more than 40 years.
Today I coach Founders, Executives & Business Owners to “Scale with Confidence.” I work with growth-driven leaders, entrepreneurs, and solopreneurs who are often successful on paper but feeling stuck and overwhelmed by competing priorities.
I create a safe and secure environment where they can be as open and honest as they choose to be. I conduct a deep dive using my Reflections Workbook and make them think more about their life and business than they ever have before.
This helps me get them in the right mindset, ready to scale with clarity, purpose, and confidence. Through structured coaching, strategic planning, and proven tools, I help them gain perspective, identify roadblocks, and make better decisions.
Whether they're scaling up, leading change, or building culture, I’m there to challenge them, motivate them and hold them to account. This means I keep them focused, and ensure they follow through on what matters most. It’s about building momentum, not just in their business, but in their lives and their leadership.
It’s not about adding more, it’s about unlocking what’s already there.
Watch the show on YouTube
Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn
My Website https://just.15mins.day
Connect with the show The Live & Linking Hub
Get your free LinkedIn profile review: https://just.15mins.day/f/review-yt