In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, Rich and Meri sit down with Dr. Tim Aker, a remarkable figure whose journey spans from struggling student to MEP, author, and communications expert. Tim shares his transformation from underperforming at GCSEs to becoming top of his sixth form, his rejection from Oxbridge on Christmas Eve, and how a passionate history teacher ignited his love for politics and shaped his future path.The conversation explores Tim's frontline political career, from grassroots activism at the Taxpayers’ Alliance to becoming UKIP's Head of Policy at a pivotal moment in British politics. He provides candid insights into the 2014 European elections "political earthquake," his election as MEP at just 29, and the intense campaign for Parliament where he missed victory by a narrow margin. Tim reveals how local casework proved more rewarding than grand political debates, including literally saving a constituent's life through intervention.Tim's unexpected pivot from politics to working in an Amazon warehouse during COVID provides powerful lessons about workplace dignity, management culture, and the value of every individual. This experience, combined with his role at the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), reinforced his core belief that "your network is your net worth" - a philosophy now central to his new venture, Just a Minute Media, where he helps businesses and individuals master the art of conveying their message in under a minute.
00:43 - Introduction to Tim Aker03:26 - Early Life and Education08:23 - University and Political Awakening10:08 - First Steps into Politics12:51 - Rise of Euroscepticism and Joining UKIP16:37 - Running for Office21:59 - Changing Political Landscape25:32 - Campaigning with Get Britain Out29:27 - Debating and Head of Policy Role33:07 - Policy Formulation and Realities34:24 - The 2014 Political Earthquake37:29 - Media's Role in Politics38:54 - MEP to Parliamentary Candidate41:08 - Local By-Election and Outcomes43:22 - Securing the By-Election Win47:04 - Power of Local Casework53:02 - Crafting the Local Candidate Message55:36 - Agony of Narrow Defeat01:03:05 - Learning to Command the Stage01:05:24 - Canvassing Techniques01:06:52 - Aker's Law: Building a Personal Vote01:10:00 - Power of Narrative01:11:31 - Councillor Power Discussion01:12:36 - Organised Action and UKIP's Rise01:14:34 - Sovereignty vs. Convenience Debate01:17:48 - Cherishing Freedom and Sovereignty01:19:38 - 2016 Referendum Rebellion01:21:38 - Why Referendum Result Wasn't Delivered01:24:59 - Debunking Brexit Myths & Trade01:28:03 - Long-Term Economic Case for Brexit01:30:30 - Manufacturing, Globalisation, Energy Policy01:33:51 - From Politics to Amazon Warehouse01:35:35 - Life Lessons from Warehouse Work01:40:58 - Advocating for Worker Dignity01:41:39 - Toxic Workplace Culture01:44:00 - Exploitation in the Workplace01:46:13 - Surviving a Difficult Job01:48:24 - Personal Development01:50:08 - Transition to New Career01:53:55 - Life as a Jam Buster01:58:36 - Federation of Small Business Intro01:59:06 - Networking and Referrals02:03:21 - Founding Just a Minute Media02:05:44 - Importance of Personal Branding02:08:13 - Mastering Communication02:10:10 - Advice for Shy Networkers02:11:27 - Confidence and Imposter Syndrome02:13:46 - Engaging an Audience02:15:17 - 8-Minute Rule for Presentations02:17:16 - Business Presentation Goals02:18:06 - Story Behind The First Brexiteer02:23:37 - 1970s British Politics02:26:55 - Margaret Thatcher Legacy02:28:50 - Historical Dramas and Curiosity02:32:29 - Future Projects and VenturesOur sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://theitrustapp.com/https://whatsoninkent.com/Support us on Buy Me a Coffee:https://buymeacoffee.com/meetyourinspiration
Find Dr Tim Aker:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-aker/https://justaminutemedia.co.uk/
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, hosts Rich and Meri connect with Lois Bates-Stubbs, founder of LBS Virtual Services and passionate advocate for women entrepreneurs. From teenage dreams of pop stardom to building a thriving virtual assistant agency, Lois shares her remarkable journey of resilience, reinvention, and authentic leadership.The conversation explores Lois's early aspirations as part of a girl band, her transition through corporate roles at Disney and banking, and the personal challenges that shaped her entrepreneurial path. She candidly discusses navigating single motherhood, caring for her terminally ill father, and the financial struggles that led to a transformative moment at Disney World - where she picked up a quarter and vowed to build a better future for her family.Lois reveals how she pivoted from making bath bombs in her council flat kitchen to launching LBS Virtual Services, growing it from a solo venture to leading a team of UK-based freelancers. She emphasises the power of authentic personal branding, the importance of supportive mentorship, and her evolution into coaching and strategy work specifically designed to empower women in business.The discussion touches on home education, with Lois sharing her decision to educate her 12-year-old son following negative school experiences, and how this alternative approach has fostered his confidence and entrepreneurial spirit. Throughout, she highlights the critical role of networking, particularly on LinkedIn, and the courage required to be genuinely yourself in business.• Teenage music dreams provided early lessons in initiative and resourcefulness• Disney Store experience shaped a lifelong commitment to exceptional customer service• Personal hardships including caregiving and financial struggles catalysed entrepreneurial breakthrough• Building LBS Virtual Services required persistence through initial client challenges• Authentic self-presentation on social media transformed business growth• Coaching women entrepreneurs emerged from personal experience overcoming self-doubt• Home education decision reflects broader themes of autonomy and individualised growth• Mutual respect and collaborative relationships define her approach to team and client management• Continuous learning and mentorship remain central to ongoing business evolution• Resilience means trusting that setbacks lead to new opportunities00:20 - Introducing Lois, The Virtual PA00:58 - A Glimpse into Lois's Life and Business02:16 - Chasing the Pop Star Dream04:47 - From Disney to an Accidental PA05:45 - Navigating Motherhood and Hardship11:27 - Facing Financial and Personal Struggles13:03 - The Life-Changing Trip to Disney15:35 - Building the Virtual Assistant Business18:59 - The Power of Networking on LinkedIn23:35 - Finding a Passion for Empowering Women27:57 - The Transformative Power of Coaching33:14 - Overcoming the Fear of Networking34:52 - The Power of Being a 'Yes' Person35:31 - Navigating Entrepreneurial Challenges38:35 - The Emotional Weight of Business Decisions41:39 - Building a Business Beyond Stereotypes43:17 - The Strategic Role of a Virtual Assistant44:51 - The Journey to Home Education46:52 - The Incident That Changed Everything50:06 - The Positive Impact of Home Education52:43 - Fostering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs55:53 - How to Connect with LoisOur sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://theitrustapp.com/https://whatsoninkent.com/#VirtualAssistantSuccess, #WomenInBusiness, #EntrepreneurialJourney, #AuthenticLeadership, #WorkFromAnywhere, #MomBossLife, #BusinessCoaching, #LinkedInStrategy, #ResilienceInBusiness, #DisneyInspired
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration podcast, Rich and Meri sit down with Malcolm Palmer, owner and founder of A4G Accounting, who shares his remarkable 30-year journey from a maths-loving teenager to building one of Kent's most innovative accountancy practices. Malcolm reveals how a chance article about sports promoter Barry Hearn at age 15 sparked his decision to become a chartered accountant, leading him down an unconventional path that would transform traditional accountancy.The conversation explores Malcolm's rapid rise to partner at just 28, his bold move to establish A4G Accounting in a converted nightclub, and his revolutionary approach to developing talent through award-winning trainee programmes. Malcolm challenges the stereotype of accountants as mere number-crunchers, revealing how they serve as therapists, confidants, and crucial advisors to business owners navigating everything from rapid growth to personal crises.As author of two influential books - "Accidental Millionaires" and "Making Your Business Less Dependent On You" - Malcolm shares powerful insights about the entrepreneurial mindset, drawing fascinating parallels between successful business owners and elite athletes. He opens up about the psychology of business ownership, including the tendency to catastrophise, the importance of building systems that free owners from day-to-day operations, and the delicate art of succession planning.• Accountants often serve as the closest confidant and advisor to business owners• Building systems and clear career pathways creates sustainable growth and staff retention• The "entrepreneurial myth" traps many owners in working IN their business rather than ON it• Successful businesses require planning to be slightly overstaffed to handle growth• Physical activity and community engagement are vital for entrepreneurial mental health• Recruiting and developing raw talent internally builds stronger company culture than hiring experienced staff• Making your business less dependent on you is essential for both personal freedom and business value• The mindset of "accidental millionaires" mirrors that of sporting legends - consistent daily excellence• Succession planning requires psychological adjustment for both founders and successors• Clear progression paths from trainee to managing partner motivate and retain top talent00:44 - Introduction to Malcolm Palmer02:53 - Early Career Path and Inspiration06:16 - The Accountant as a Business Confidant10:05 - How a Sudden Opportunity Led to Partnership13:47 - The Challenges of Taking Over a Traditional Firm14:31 - Leadership Advice for Managing an Older Team18:23 - Defining the Modern Role of a Partner21:45 - The Journey to Founding A4G Accounting23:39 - From Derelict Nightclub to Company Headquarters26:44 - Writing 'Accidental Millionaires'32:18 - The Story Behind 'Making Your Business Less Dependent on You'34:10 - The Pitfall of Profit Without Joy35:38 - Incentivizing Freedom for Business Owners37:57 - Building a Team: The Accountant's Perspective38:58 - Recruitment Strategy: In-House vs. Agencies40:12 - The Power of Being Slightly Overstaffed42:37 - The Model of Continuous Apprenticeship44:53 - Retaining Talent Through a Clear Career Path45:40 - Systemizing Success: Lessons from 'The E-Myth'48:01 - Planning Ahead in a Volatile Economy50:10 - The Unemployable Entrepreneur and Selling a Business53:40 - The Business Owner's Mindset: 'Catastrophizing' for Success55:58 - The Price of Entrepreneurship and How to Manage It58:08 - Finding Time to Recharge: Music and Sports59:35 - Life Lessons from Parkrun01:03:33 - Discussing the Guest's Books01:03:51 - Concluding the InterviewSupport us on Buy Me a Coffee:https://buymeacoffee.com/meetyourinspirationOur sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/https://theitrustapp.com/
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, Rich and Meri sit down with Katie Powsey, a life and mindset coach who specialises in helping mothers overcome guilt. Katie shares her remarkable journey from leaving Slovakia with just £60 to building a successful coaching business in the UK. Her story encompasses working as an au pair, rising through charity management roles, achieving award-winning success in estate agency, and ultimately finding her true calling after experiencing burnout and personal crisis.The conversation explores the universal nature of mum guilt, the challenges of balancing career ambitions with family life, and how personal adversity can become the catalyst for profound transformation. • Mum guilt affects mothers universally, regardless of their choices about work and family• Life's path isn't linear - it's okay to take years to discover your purpose• Hardship and challenges often become the greatest catalysts for personal growth• Mindset transformation is as crucial as taking action for creating lasting change• Good coaching empowers people to find their own solutions rather than giving instructions• Making coaching accessible and affordable helps everyday women, not just executives• Every experience in life contributes to who we become - the journey matters as much as the destination• Building genuine connections and community is essential for personal and professional success• Self-care isn't selfish - mothers need to prioritise their wellbeing to better support their families• Success without guilt is achievable when we align our values with our actionsTo connect with Katie:https://www.kplifecoaching.co.uk/Instagram: @kp.lifecoachingLinkedIn: Katie Powsey00:01 - From Weight Loss to Mindset Coaching01:21 - Introducing Katie and Mum Guilt03:12 - Katie's Journey: Slovakia to England05:04 - Early Life and Education06:48 - Rejecting a Pre-Planned Life09:21 - Emotional Move to England13:10 - First Impressions and Becoming an Au Pair18:18 - Navigating English Culture Shock22:31 - Life Lessons from Children27:42 - The Unforgettable Scottish Interview32:07 - Career Progression and Finding a New Path33:46 - Chance Entry into Real Estate34:41 - Core Passion: People and Customer Service35:42 - Blending Service with Sales39:14 - Coaching Clients to Their Dream Home41:33 - The Power of Company's Mission42:28 - The Impact of a Great Agent47:07 - Navigating the Stress of Moving50:50 - Career Shift: Changing Priorities52:31 - Work-Life Struggle and Breaking Point56:01 - Recognising Burnout58:26 - Addictive Nature of Sales01:03:22 - Tipping Point to Entrepreneurship01:04:02 - Navigating Corporate Life and Motherhood01:06:30 - Personal Crisis and Tough Decisions01:09:46 - Gaining Perspective on Corporate Decisions01:11:34 - Passion for Life Coaching01:14:17 - Resignation and Starting Over01:15:45 - Struggles and Systemic Hurdles01:18:13 - Second Burnout: From One Extreme to Another01:20:14 - Health Crisis: The Ultimate Wake-Up Call01:22:59 - The Birth of KP Life Coaching01:23:04 - Mindset Shift and The Secret01:28:44 - Why Everyone Needs a Coach01:31:03 - Coaching in a Fast-Paced World01:33:58 - Rise of Small Businesses and Support Networks01:37:25 - Empowering Nature of Coaching01:38:58 - Personal Journey to Life Coaching01:41:07 - Embracing Self-Discovery01:42:16 - Addressing Mum Guilt Through Coaching01:45:45 - Creating Accessible Coaching for Mums01:48:12 - Success: Clients Outgrowing Their Coach01:49:32 - Coaching as a Personal Investment01:50:35 - How to Connect with KatieSupport us on Buy Me a Coffee:https://buymeacoffee.com/meetyourinspirationOur sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/https://theitrustapp.com/
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, Rich and Meri sit down with James Gardner, a serial entrepreneur and managing director of six businesses, who shares his remarkable journey from washing cars at age 14 to building and selling an international manufacturing company. James reveals how leaving university early to pursue practical experience shaped his entrepreneurial path, leading him through corporate roles in London before co-founding a business with his brother that grew from a dressing table startup to a global enterprise.The conversation explores James's unique approach to business acquisition, demonstrating how he leverages "other people's money" to buy companies rather than starting from scratch. He shares candid insights about returning to his roots in the funeral industry, where he now owns multiple funeral homes across Kent, implementing innovative practices while maintaining the sensitivity required in serving grieving families.James delves deep into his leadership philosophy, emphasising the importance of people-first management, cash flow discipline, and maintaining a compelling vision. He discusses practical strategies for building trust within teams, including running regular "ideas and suggestions" meetings that resulted in over 100 implemented improvements in just 90 days. The discussion also covers his passion project, Amazing 3D Goals, where he coaches and mentors aspiring leaders from schoolchildren to CEOs.Throughout the episode, James addresses the mental health challenges of entrepreneurship, sharing his daily routines for resilience, including meditation, journaling, and participating in peer groups like Vistage. He advocates for hiring based on attitude rather than qualifications, explains the complexities of integrating acquired businesses, and reveals why he believes buying a business is statistically less risky than starting one.• Early work experiences from age 11 shaped an entrepreneurial mindset• Left university to gain practical business experience• Co-founded a manufacturing business that expanded internationally• Successfully sold the company to global corporation Sinclair & Rush• Pioneered business acquisition using leveraged finance strategies• Owns and operates multiple funeral businesses across Kent• Founded Amazing 3D Goals for leadership coaching and mentoring• Emphasises people, cash flow, and vision as leadership pillars• Implements staff empowerment through suggestion programs• Advocates hiring for attitude over technical qualifications• Practices daily mental health routines for entrepreneurial resilience• Participates in CEO peer groups for continuous learning• Believes business acquisition offers lower risk than startups• Integrates compassion and innovation in traditional industries• Mentors others in business buying and leadership development00:41 - Introduction to James Gardner03:00 - An Entrepreneur's Early Start05:39 - Launching a Manufacturing Business07:36 - Strategy for Success: Market Gaps09:35 - Expanding the Business to the US12:22 - Persistence and Attitude in Sales15:19 - Acquiring a New Business18:26 - How to Buy a Business Without Capital22:39 - Seller’s True Motivation25:05 - Leadership over Technical Knowledge27:21 - Pillars of Leadership31:14 - Fostering Change with Employee Ideas34:37 - Empowering and Trusting Teams39:19 - Hiring for Attitude42:41 - Integrating Acquired Businesses44:55 - Workplace Culture Integration45:40 - Exploring Diverse Ventures47:44 - Loneliness of Leadership50:30 - Reframing Failure52:04 - Daily Self-Review54:11 - Reading the Room in Business56:12 - Learning to Adapt01:00:32 - Learning from Bad Leadership01:03:15 - Family and Mentors01:05:41 - Continuous Learning and Mentorship01:08:06 - Vistage: CEO Peer Group01:10:17 - Mental Resilience Routine01:14:02 - 90-Day Habit Challenge01:19:35 - Acquiring vs Starting a BusinessI
In this episode of Meet Your Inspiration, Rich and Meri sit down with Paul Andrews, a legendary serial entrepreneur from Kent whose remarkable journey spans from teenage paper mill worker to senior technology executive at global banks. Paul shares his unconventional path from leaving school at 14 to becoming VP of Technology at Citibank by age 25, pioneering electronic banking and one of the world's first corporate email systems.The conversation explores Paul's philosophy of continuous learning, starting with invaluable advice from an early supervisor: "First learn your own job, then learn someone else's." This principle guided him through diverse roles—from crawling through Victorian machinery as a "grease monkey" to building pan-European computer networks and implementing electronic trading systems at Goldman Sachs during the Big Bang deregulation.Paul reveals how curiosity and adaptability drove his success across multiple industries, from mainframe computing and satellite communications to founding Bunker Radio (900+ episodes, 3,000+ guests) and establishing Kent's first co-working spaces. He emphasises the importance of people skills alongside technical expertise, sharing candid insights about burnout, toxic work environments, and knowing when to pivot.• Learning someone else's job creates unexpected opportunities and career advancement• Curiosity and asking questions matter more than formal qualifications• Successful businesses require solid financial planning, not just passion• Adaptability and continuous learning prevent career stagnation• Building genuine relationships opens doors to new ventures• People management skills become crucial as technical careers progress• Recognising personal limits helps avoid burnout and maintain wellbeing• Community investment and giving back create lasting impact beyond profit• Every career pivot stems from relationships, curiosity, and courage to try new things• Practical, hands-on learning often trumps theoretical knowledge00:30 - Introduction to Paul Andrews02:24 - The Power of Real-Time Social Media04:09 - Leaving School and Landing the First Job08:22 - The Best Advice: Learn Your Job, Then Someone Else's13:16 - The Value of Continuous Learning16:07 - From Manual Labour to an Office Job20:06 - Moving to London and Working in Insurance23:34 - Getting into IT Through Football25:43 - From Computer Operator to Network Controller32:23 - Strategic Career Moves and Identifying Trends33:42 - Pioneering European Data Networks35:56 - Headhunted: Designing Networks for Nuclear Power37:37 - Pivoting into the Future of Banking Technology38:19 - Innovating at Citibank: Pre-Internet Banking41:07 - From Paper Mill to VP: Learning on the Job42:35 - Building the First Electronic Banking Network45:26 - Integrating the IBM PC and Scaling the Bank47:36 - The Unauthorised Birth of Internal Email51:13 - Navigating Corporate Politics and Leaving Citibank53:53 - Joining Goldman Sachs and the Big Bang Deregulation55:16 - Pioneering Electronic Trading58:43 - A Tale of Two Cultures: Corporate vs. Partnership01:00:27 - The Breaking Point: Why I Quit Goldman Sachs01:05:11 - Becoming an Entrepreneur: The Consulting Years01:07:37 - An Accidental Career in Motivational Speaking01:13:03 - The BBC Rant That Inspired a Radio Show01:15:43 - From a Potato Factory to a Radio Station01:20:06 - The Mission of Bunker Radio: Championing Small Business01:20:44 - Paul's Co-Working Spaces01:21:51 - The Origin of Jobs in Kent01:25:01 - Advice for Starting a Business01:25:44 - The Importance of Market ResearchCatch up with Paul on the Biz Bunker Radio each week:https://www.kentbusinessradio.co.uk/Our sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://theitrustapp.com/https://whatsoninkent.com/#CareerInspiration, #TechPioneer, #ContinuousLearning, #EntrepreneurialMindset, #AdaptToThrive,
n this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, Rich and Meri sit down with Natalie Kent, a former police detective who made the courageous leap from law enforcement to founding her own calligraphy business. Natalie shares her remarkable journey from studying forensic science at the University of Kent, through her five years serving in Kent Police's graduate scheme, to discovering her passion for the ancient art of handwritten calligraphy.The conversation explores how a chance invitation to a calligraphy workshop in 2020 rekindled Natalie's childhood love of art and ultimately led her to leave her secure career in policing. She discusses the challenges of transitioning from detective work investigating serious crimes to building a creative business focused on bespoke wedding stationery and well-being workshops. Natalie emphasises how her faith provided the courage to take this leap, knowing she would regret not trying more than any potential failure.Throughout the episode, Natalie reflects on the unexpected parallels between police work and entrepreneurship - both requiring resilience, empathy, and the ability to navigate uncertainty. She shares valuable insights about the importance of community support, from the Kent Foundation mentoring program to local business networks, and how collaboration rather than competition drives success in creative industries. The discussion also touches on the enduring value of handcrafted art in our digital age and how calligraphy serves as both a business and a meditative practice.Contact Natalie: - https://www.instagram.com/nk.calligraphy?igsh=MTZkbGxsZXl0cDl6bQ==Contact the Kent Foundation for young entrepreneurs in Kent aged under 40 - https://kentfoundation.org/Key Takeaways:• Taking calculated risks is essential - the regret of not trying outweighs the fear of failure• Practical experience during education provides invaluable real-world skills• Understanding people's backgrounds and circumstances builds empathy and perspective• Community support and mentorship accelerate entrepreneurial learning• Handcrafted art offers unique value in an increasingly digital world• Faith and personal values can guide major life decisions• Creative pursuits benefit mental well-being for both practitioners and participants• Perfectionism can be balanced with accepting the beauty of imperfection• Regular self-reflection helps ensure your life aligns with long-term aspirations• Resilience comes from accepting both successes and setbacks as learning opportunities00:44 - Introduction to Natalie Kent02:23 - From School to Forensic Science07:16 - Joining the Police Force09:04 - Life as a Police Officer12:13 - Adverse Childhood Experiences15:20 - Discovering Calligraphy17:42 - From Police Officer to Entrepreneur20:16 - Starting the Calligraphy Business22:48 - Expanding the Business and Offering Workshops23:34 - Finding Mentors and Support27:40 - Navigating the First Year in Business32:08 - The Value of Handwritten Calligraphy in a Digital World37:23 - The Craft of Calligraphy: A Demonstration42:36 - The Meditative Power of Calligraphy45:29 - Sources of Inspiration and Resilience49:51 - The Role of the Kent Foundation51:21 - The Importance of Faith and Self-Belief53:11 - The Courage to Change Careers56:51 - Finding Your 'Why'58:56 - A Glimpse into Creative Work01:00:58 - Recharging Through Creativity and Nature01:03:14 - Work-Life Balance and 'Mini Holidays'01:04:07 - Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/https://theitrustapp.com/explore-our-services/the-itrust-app/ Special thank you to our editor, film Charlie Smith and our marketing advisor Kristina Daduryan
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, Rich and Meri welcome Hayden, founder of Pink Panda Productions and Bloomfields Garden Company, who shares his remarkable journey from art student to systems-obsessed entrepreneur. His story reveals how a university setback led to an unexpected path in gardening, which he transformed through relentless systematisation and content marketing into a scalable business model. His mindset is definitely not accepting the status quo!The conversation explores Hayden's revolutionary GPCP framework (Gifts, Prospect, Core Offer, Profit Pump), his approach to turning business expertise into automated content systems, and his refreshingly honest reflections on the challenges of team management. Hayden's ultimate vision: a 100-year goal to provide free access to basic human needs worldwide! This demonstrates how entrepreneurial thinking can serve humanity's greatest challenges.• Hayden's nonconformist attitude shaped his approach to business from age five, when he talked himself out of detention.• His gardening business pioneered fixed-fee monthly services and automated content marketing in a traditional industry.• The GPCP framework transforms how businesses structure their offerings for maximum value and profitability.• Exceptional customer service means answering problems before customers realise they need to ask.• Pink Panda Productions bridges the gap between business strategy and content creation.• Transparency with team members about business challenges is crucial for scaling successfully.• Systems and automation can transform any service business into a scalable operation.• Content isn't just marketing, it's a systematised knowledge asset that creates leverage.• Every setback provides data for making the impossible possible.• Being helpful is the core philosophy that drives sustainable business success.01:10 - The 100-Year Goal05:01 - The Inspiration Behind the Vision06:33 - Life After School: Art and Rebellion09:07 - The University Setback14:12 - Starting a Gardening Business18:24 - Discovering Business Through Networking22:05 - Creating a Unique Selling Proposition24:38 - Building a Custom CRM33:08 - Revolutionising the Business Model37:24 - The Sales Process and Guarantees40:29 - Reflecting on a Major Business Mistake42:15 - Learning From Management Mistakes45:49 - Applying Lessons to a New Business47:08 - The Birth of ThinkPanda50:14 - The Origin of 'Think Panda'51:30 - The Content Repurposing Model57:54 - Introducing the GPCP Framework01:06:23 - The Final P: Profit Pump01:11:11 - Reflecting on Setbacks and Success01:17:14 - The Mindset of Not Accepting the Status Quo01:20:03 - Creating Value and Challenging Limitations01:21:08 - Humanity's Goal: Becoming Multi-Planetary01:22:17 - The Elon Musk Philosophy01:24:26 - The 1 in 400 Trillion Chance01:26:40 - A Quest for Daily Habits01:27:41 - A Scientific Approach to Diet01:29:30 - The Marketing of Harmful Products01:29:54 - The Link between Cigarettes and Snacks01:32:36 - The Traffic Light System01:34:39 - The Challenge of Finding Great People01:35:18 - Where to Find Hayden OnlineOur sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/https://theitrustapp.com/#MeetYourInspiration, #EntrepreneurMindset, #SystemiseYourBusiness, #ContentMarketing, #GPCPFramework, #PinkPandaProductions, #BusinessAutomation, #ScalingUp, #CustomerServiceExcellence, #100YearGoal
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration podcast, Rich and Meri sit down with Blessing Enakimio, an organisational development consultant, entrepreneur, and cultural architect who shares her remarkable journey from London to Nigeria and back again. Her story weaves through unexpected career changes, from almost studying biomedical engineering at Imperial College to building a successful cake business, all while becoming a global leading expert in organisational culture and change management.The conversation explores Blessing's unique "Five Ws" framework for transforming workplace culture, her powerful analogy of culture as the grout between organisational tiles, and why 70% of mergers fail due to poor cultural integration. Drawing from her experience leading the complex merger of four ambulance trusts and running events at the Nigerian Presidential State House, Blessing reveals how authentic leadership and intentional culture-building create lasting organisational success.• Growing up bicultural between the UK and Nigeria shaped Blessing's adaptability and global perspective• Early exposure to her mother's multiple businesses instilled an entrepreneurial mindset• Pivoting from an incomplete psychology degree led to discovering her true calling in organisational development• The "Five W’s" framework (Work, Workflow, Workload, Workplace, Workforce) diagnoses and transforms organisational culture• Culture is the invisible grout that holds organisational tiles together - ignore it at your peril• People remain the ultimate asset, regardless of technology or automation• Successful mergers require deliberate cultural integration, not just structural changes• Her Empower Gala creates authentic cross-sector connections beyond traditional business awards• Building a cake business from necessity taught valuable lessons about market adaptation• Continuous mentorship and coaching are essential even for established leaders• Empowering children means helping them become "more of who they already are"• Local impact and family balance are reshaping her consulting focus00:00 - Introduction: Culture as the Grout01:18 - The Story Behind the Name 'Blessing'02:55 - From Aspiring Doctor to Dropping Out of University04:53 - Finding a Career in Learning and Development07:37 - Entrepreneurial Roots: Inspired by Mom10:00 - The Dream Job: Building a New Organisation13:17 - The 'Five Ws' Framework for Business Culture15:48 - Managing Global and Hybrid Teams18:40 - People: A Company's Biggest Asset20:04 - Scaling Culture: The Role of Managers23:15 - Organisational Development vs. HR26:30 - Why 70% of Mergers Fail31:24 - Bringing Structure to Ambition35:08 - Becoming an International Speaker39:21 - The Power of Clear Intention43:12 - Defining an Event Strategy43:45 - The Empower Gala: Connecting Sectors46:33 - The Motivation Behind the Recognition Awards50:06 - The Problem with Commercialised Awards51:17 - The Accidental Start of the Cake Business54:51 - Balancing Artistic Cakes with Commercial Demand58:43 - The Future of the Cake Business: A Social Enterprise01:00:24 - The Importance of Mentors and Accountability01:04:12 - The Three C's: Competence, Confidence, and Courage01:05:12 - A Parenting Philosophy of Self-Discovery01:10:09 - Future Plans: Focusing on Family and Culture ClinicsOur sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/https://theitrustapp.com Special thanks to our film editor Charlie Smith https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-smith-42b74a121/ Special thanks to our new assistant Kristina Daduryan - https://www.instagram.com/kristina_daduryan?igsh=bXRkZTk4NXZ6aXdx
Summary
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration podcast, Richand Meri sit down with Dan, a serial entrepreneur whose journey spans resilience, innovation, and people-first leadership. Dan shares how an early mantra, “Tough times don’t last, tough people do” has shaped both his businessphilosophy and personal outlook, weaving this message throughout his story of setbacks and comebacks.
The conversation traces Dan’s path from an uncertain schoolleaver to founder of multiple companies. Dan opens up about pivotal moments:being told he’d never make it in marketing by a university lecturer, embracing adversity as motivation, and how he repeatedly built, and rebuilt businesses in sales, home insulation, and eventually the emergency safety tech sector. The hosts and Dan discuss the lessons learned through academic rejection, betrayal by business partners, challenging market changes, and financial risks that cam with a young family on the way.
Dan illustrates how he transformed obstacles into rocketfuel, leading teams with empathy, paying staff from his own pocket during toughtimes, and placing integrity at the core of his ventures. He delves into theinnovations behind his companies Ted Alert and Button, reflecting on the impact of portable emergency devices for the elderly, lone workers, and those seeking greater independence and wellbeing.
The episode explores modern business opportunities in ESGand AI-driven reporting, the role of mentorship, and the value of networking built on trust, mutual support, and shared ambition.
Dan’s leadership style shines through:-
focusing on incremental improvement ('1% better every day'), empowering and nurturing talent, and championing mental health, especially for men.
Listeners will find Dan’s story packed with actionableinsights on resilience, the critical importance of mindset, and the practical and moral power of lifting others as you climb. Dan leaves us with hard-wonwisdom: "Never tell me I can't do it. Because if you say I can't do it, I'm going to give it a go."
01:03 - Dan's Journey After School
04:02 - The Professor Who Said 'Never'
05:16 - From University to Door-to-Door Sales
08:58 - Building a Team and Facing Betrayal
12:15 - Starting Over: A Series of Setbacks
14:15 - A New Industry: Emergency Buttons
16:43 - Launching a Business on Faith
18:50 - How GPS Buttons Provide Freedom
22:24 - Anatomy of an Emergency Call
25:08 - Beyond the Elderly: Safety for Everyone
30:35 - Introducing 'Button' for Lone Workers
33:29 - Health & Safety as an Employee Perk
35:28 - Modern Dangers and Working From Home
37:16 - The Carer's Dilemma
38:14 - The Lone Worker Emergency Solution
42:23 - The Philosophy of Empowering People
44:04 - Nurturing Young Talent
47:11 - Inspiring Success Through Mentorship
52:42 - A Lesson from the Job Centre
55:20 - New Ventures: AI and Carbon Calculation
01:01:05 - Embracing AI Without Losing the Human Touch
01:04:00 - The Power of Teamwork and Networking
01:08:20 - Personal Drive and Overcoming Setbacks
01:10:12 - Learning from Family: A Different Path
01:13:11 - No Risk, No Reward: A Life Philosophy
01:15:58 - Future Plans: A Men's Mental Health Podcast
01:17:22 - Your Network is Your Net Worth
01:18:08 - The Mindset of a Leader: Reaching for the Stars
01:19:16 - Finding a Work-Life Balance
01:20:34 - The Power of a Positive Outlook
01:22:06 - Navigating Mental Health and Brotherhood
01:23:13 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Contact Dan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-doust-80990433/
TED Alert:
Special thanks to Charlie our film editor!
#ToughTimesDontLast, #ResilienceInBusiness,#EntrepreneurialJourney, #InnovationInSafety, #LeadershipLessons,#PeoplePowerSuccess, #1PercentBetterEveryDay, #MentalHealthMatters,#NeverGiveUpAttitude, #EmergencyTechInnovation
Summary In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, Rich and Meri connect with Kathy Hayman, an inspiring entrepreneur, coach, and founder of Conscious Living, a digital platform for personal growth and conscious living. Through their conversation, listeners gain intimate insight into Kathy's life, from humble beginnings in a working-class family to multiple career transformations, deep life crises, and her journey into the coaching world and development of the Conscious Living app.The discussion explores how early life decisions shaped by practical considerations led Kathy from secretarial college to Citibank, where she became one of only two global experts in revolutionary trading simulation software. Her first major life crisis at 23, when her boyfriend died in an accident, catalysed a remarkable international career training currency traders across the world. At 28, Kathy took the entrepreneurial leap, founding an event management company that grew to nine employees and major pharmaceutical clients, before 9/11 devastated the travel industry and forced painful restructuring.Kathy openly shares navigating divorce while maintaining a friendship with her ex-husband, pivoting through property sales in Spain and Cyprus during the 2008 crash, and confronting a profound personal crisis that led her away from her strict religious upbringing. Through coaching, Reiki, and intensive self-development work, she discovered tools for transformation that would become central to her mission. Despite facing multiple bereavements, serious illness, and COVID challenges, Cathy emerged with renewed purpose, earning coaching certification from The Coaching Academy and NLP training.The conversation reveals the rocky path to launching the Conscious Living app with business partner Amanda, including costly technology failures and eventual change to the Skool platform. When Amanda withdrew due to illness, Kathy chose to continue alone, refocusing on B2B mental health support for small businesses. She emphasises how the seven principles of Conscious Living - including releasing blame, judgement, and limiting thoughts - proved essential in navigating these challenges.Keypoints• Growing up working-class meant university wasn't considered an option• Entrepreneurship requires courage to leap without guarantees• Professional coaching differs fundamentally from friendly advice• Small businesses need mental health support as much as large corporations• Legacy thinking drives the mission to lift others through community• Conscious living principles provide practical tools for navigating crisisKey interview moments00:00 Introduction to Inspiration and Empowerment02:00 Kathy's Early Career Journey05:41 Transitioning to Event Management12:19 Challenges and Changes in Business15:45 Navigating Personal Relationships and Business18:09 The Impact of Market Changes and Personal Struggles18:39 Navigating Personal Struggles and Transformation21:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Coaching25:51 Building a Coaching Business and Overcoming Challenges30:27 The App Development Journey and Setbacks37:40 Lessons Learned and New Beginnings43:33 Building a Community Through the App45:47 Navigating Challenges in Business Partnerships47:59 Exploring New Business Opportunities49:57 The Importance of Coaching and Mentorship53:09 The Role of Coaches in Personal Development57:39 The Value of Experience in Coaching01:01:16 The Impact of Coaching on Personal Growth01:05:24 Facilitating Others' Success01:07:56 Supporting Mental Health in the WorkplaceTo connect with Kathy:https://consciousliving.apphttps://www.linkedin.com/company/conscious-living-app/Our incredible sponsors:Hempstead House Hotel - https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/What's On in Kent - https://whatsoninkent.com/iTrust - https://theitustapp.com/ Quote BOD for a 10% discount on the first year's membership
In this episode of Meet Your Inspiration, hosts Meri and Rich welcome Claire Snoad, a musical theatre producer and passionate choir leader who has dedicated her life to building community through music in Faversham.Claire shares how her love for singing and performance grew into a movement that brings people together, offering a space for newcomers and seasoned performers alike to find their voice. Listeners will hear about the challenges she faced—including mental health struggles and setbacks in her musical journey—and how resilience, mentorship, and belief played a role in her comeback.You’ll discover the impact Claire has made with inclusive choirs and uplifting productions like the "Sound of Musicals" cabarets and a community-wide "Wizard of Oz" show. She offers honest insight into the realities of local theatre and the importance of creating supportive, accessible spaces for everyone.If you’re curious about how everyday people can foster creativity, overcome obstacles, and inspire others through the arts, this conversation is for you.Tune in for a full dose of inspiration, and remember: together, we’re making extraordinary things happen, one story at a time.00:40 - Podcast Introduction & Guest Welcome02:47 - Claire's Early Passion for Singing04:08 - University Challenges & Mental Health06:35 - Post-University Vocal Struggles & Rebuilding12:01 - The Birth of Fundraising: Music and Joy14:33 - The Sound of Musicals Concept Develops15:31 - Impact of COVID-19 & Shift to Online17:53 - Ad Break23:56 - Organising Early Shows: An Informal Approach27:18 - Evolving Show Production Post-COVID30:27 - Crafting the Show: Format & Audience Appeal35:05 - Show Curation & Performer Collaboration39:21 - Launching Claire Snow Productions40:00 - Starting the Community Choir with Naomi43:36 - Choir's Success and Memorable Moments46:43 - Storytelling and Inclusivity in Musicals48:47 - Sound of Musicals: Choir and Anniversary Highlights50:50 - Evolving Shows: Collaborations and Memorable Performances53:11 - Personal Milestones: A New Home and Financial Insights54:25 - The Journey to Staging 'The Wizard of Oz'55:55 - Producing 'Wizard of Oz': Team, Funding, and Vision58:14 - 'Wizard of Oz': Production Details and Sponsorship01:00:49 - Community Support for Local Theatre01:02:44 - Advice for Aspiring Singers: Passion and Practice01:04:55 - Building Onstage Confidence and Handling Mistakes01:07:58 - Music's Role: Daily Escape and Emotional Connection01:10:32 - Inspiring Future Generations in Musical Theatre01:13:04 - The Vibrant Local Theatre Scene and Collaboration01:15:32 - Collaboration, Final Thanks, and 'Wizard of Oz' PremiereOur sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration podcast, hosts Meri and Richard engage with Elizabeth Willetts, founder of “Investing in Women”, to discuss the significance of flexible working, particularly for women. Elizabeth shares her journey from recruitment to entrepreneurship, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of establishing a platform that promotes flexible job opportunities, especially for women. The conversation delves into the benefits of flexible work for organisations, the importance of trust in remote arrangements, and personal stories of transformation. Elizabeth also discusses her new book, "Flex", which serves as a guide for career advancement and negotiation strategies, which is an opportunity for everyone to get the very best tips. The episode concludes with insights on the future of work, the impact of AI, and the importance of self-care.• Flexible working is crucial for women and diversity in the workplace.• The gender pay gap is partly due to the lack of flexible senior roles.• Trust is essential for successful flexible work arrangements.• Documenting achievements is key for salary negotiations.• AI will significantly impact job markets in the future.• Flexible work can lead to increased productivity and employee satisfaction.• Personal stories highlight the transformative power of flexible work.• Networking and personal branding are vital for career advancement.• Negotiating salary is more effective when changing jobs.• Self-care practices, like walking, are important for maintaining balance.Time stamps00:00 Introduction to Inspiration and Empowerment00:55 The Birth of Investing in Women02:56 Challenges in Establishing a Flexible Work Environment05:50 The Evolution of Recruitment and Job Opportunities08:50 The Benefits of Flexible Working for Companies11:54 Empowerment Through Trust and Flexibility14:43 Success Stories of Women in Flexible Roles18:04 Elizabeth's Journey and Career Path20:51 The Role of Coaching in Business Success23:53 The Journey to Publishing a Book25:40 Defining Your Career Path27:52 Negotiating Salary and Job Offers32:33 The Importance of Documenting Achievements34:23 Navigating Career Breaks and Job Opportunities36:31 Expanding Investing in Women38:32 Writing a Book: The Process and Experience39:25 Future Job Opportunities in Recruitment43:21 Finding Balance and Self-CareTo contact Elizabeth:https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-willetts/ https://investinginwomen.co.uk/Find Elizabeth's amazing book Flex - It will give you all the career advice you need, in one simple to read book.. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Flex-Strategies-Successful-Career-Around/dp/1394267797/
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration podcast, hosts Meri and Rich engage with Laura, founder of Wild Box, as she shares her inspiring journey from education to entrepreneurship. Laura discusses her struggles with anxiety, the transformative experience of traveling to Bali, and how she adapted her business which had just started before the pandemic. The conversation highlights the importance of resilience, innovation, and personal growth in the face of multiple business challenges. In this conversation, we delve into the journey of navigating business challenges, the right branding, and the importance of local partnerships. We discuss the persistence required to launch products and enter markets, the significance of great mentorship, and the balance between personal life and business growth. The dialogue highlights innovative offerings in the cocktail industry and the evolving trends towards non-alcoholic options, showcasing Laura’s commitment to quality and local produce.Special takeaways• Laura transitioned from a sports performance background to bioscience.• She faced significant challenges in finding a job after university.• Laura discovered a passion for marketing while working as a receptionist.• Mental health struggles led Laura to a pivotal moment in her career.• A trip to Bali helped Laura rejuvenate and refocus her life.• The idea for Wild Box emerged from a gap in the market for boutique events.• Laura adapted her business model during the pandemic by offering cocktail-making classes.• Wild Box experienced significant growth during the pandemic through innovative solutions.• Laura's personal life changes influenced her business decisions.• The importance of branding and consistency in building a business. The importance of survival during tough business years.• Rebranding can lead to a loss of identity.• Partnerships with local businesses can revitalise a brand.• Persistence is key in product launches and market entry.• Understanding your target audience is crucial for success.• Scaling a business requires strategic planning and execution.• Innovative offerings can set a brand apart in a competitive market.• Support systems and mentorship play a vital role in business growth.• Finding a work-life balance is essential for personal well-being.• The non-alcoholic trend is growing and offers new opportunities.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Inspiration and Empowerment01:08 Laura's Educational Journey and Career Beginnings06:00 Transitioning to Marketing and Business Development08:35 Facing Challenges and Mental Health Struggles09:15 A Transformative Trip to Bali11:41 The Birth of Wild Box and Initial Concepts18:43 Adapting to the Pandemic: Innovative Solutions25:40 Growth and Expansion of Wild Box32:13 Navigating New Opportunities and Challenges39:15 Personal Life Changes and Business Evolution40:41 Navigating Business Challenges43:25 Rebranding and Identity Crisis45:49 Partnerships and Local Collaborations47:54 Product Launch and Market Entry50:30 The Journey of Persistence53:10 Scaling the Business56:27 Innovative Offerings and Trends01:00:11 Support Systems and Mentorship01:03:18 Finding Balance and Personal GrowthHow to contact Laura:https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-taylor-7220a25b/ Wild Box Events – Website - https://wildboxevents.co.uk/
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration podcast, Meri and Rich welcome Septia, an inspiring individual who shares her journey from Indonesia to France to pursue her dreams in journalism. Despite facing numerous rejections from universities, Septia's determination led her to eventually succeed in her studies. She discusses the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language, the importance of resilience, and how she pivoted her career from journalism to LinkedIn writing. Septia emphasizes the significance of personal branding and storytelling in building a successful career, and she reflects on her definition of success and the influence of her mother as a role model.Takeaways• Septia faced multiple rejections before finally being accepted into a French university.• Learning French was a significant challenge, but Septia persevered to improve her language skills.• The excitement of moving to France was mixed with fear and uncertainty.• Language barriers made the initial months in France particularly difficult for Septia.• Building connections with fellow students helped Septia navigate her studies.• Septia pivoted from journalism to LinkedIn writing, utilizing her skills in a new way.• Personal branding and storytelling are crucial for success on LinkedIn.• Success is defined by personal happiness and fulfilment, not just financial gain.• Septia's mother served as an inspiration and role model.• Resilience and determination are key to overcoming challenges in a new environment.• Defining Success: A Personal Perspective• The Power of Resilience in Pursuing DreamsChapters00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Septia02:44 Overcoming Rejections and Pursuing Journalism in France05:54 Challenges and Emotions of Starting in a New Country10:11 Adapting to the Language Barrier and Finding Support13:05 Moments of Doubt and Perseverance16:29 The Supportive Environment and Learning Experience in France18:17 The Difficulty of Learning a New Language20:02 Moving from France to the Netherlands21:45 Career Pivot Towards LinkedIn Ghostwriting23:53 Using LinkedIn for Networking and Finding Clients26:31 Starting the Journey: End of January31:49 The Influence of an Independent Mother35:53 Tips for Success on LinkedIn47:14 The Freedom to Work Remotely and TravelFind Septia on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/septiachaniago?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, hosts Meri and Rich welcome our first junior inspiration! Young karting talent Ronnie Smart. We discuss Ronnie's journey into karting, the importance of fitness and training, the costs associated with racing, and the dynamics of being part of a racing team. Ronnie shares his passion for racing, his inspirations, and his challenges as he transitions to national racing at age 10! The conversation shows Ronnie's dedication and hard work required to succeed in the competitive world of karting. This conversation delves into the world of karting, the challenge of financing racing, the importance of not only raw talent, and the journey towards professional racing. Ronnie's mum and dad discuss the balance between school and racing, the significance and sacrifice required from the family to support Ronnie, and the challenges young racers face. They also touch on the need for sponsorship and the challenges for aspiring drivers. His determination and consistency when racing with multiple fastest lap records across the country and his constant lap times - have brought him the nickname, Robot Ronnie! He has the mindset of a 30-year man on a 10-year boy's body!Key moments• The podcast aims to empower ordinary people to become extraordinary.• Ronnie Smart is a young talent in karting with a bright future.• Family support plays a crucial role in Ronnie's racing journey.• Fitness and training are essential for success in karting.• The costs of racing can add up quickly, impacting families financially.• Transitioning from club to national racing requires skill and determination.• Team dynamics and coaching are vital for competitive racing.• Young racers face challenges like weight management and fitness.• Passion for racing often stems from family traditions and influences.• Future aspirations in racing require ongoing commitment and investment. The cost of karting can be substantial, with budgets reaching up to a quarter of a million pounds.• Raw talent is crucial in racing, but consistency often determines success.• Professional racing requires not just talent but also significant financial investment.• Teams and scouts can provide opportunities for talented young drivers.• Balancing school and racing is essential, with supportive schools playing a key role.• Young racers should focus on enjoying the sport and not giving up.• Sponsorship is vital for young racers to progress in their careers.• Family support is crucial for young athletes in competitive sports.• Karting can lead to opportunities in higher-level racing competitions.• The journey in motorsport is about passion, hard work, and resilience.• "I knew I had to lose a bit of weight."• "You really got to feel really fit."• "I really like to be Lewis Hamilton."• "It racks up very quickly."• "Consistency is your key, isn't it?"• "You might get scouted by a bigger team."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Inspiration and Young Talent01:59 The Journey into Karting04:09 The Importance of Fitness and Training07:27 Passion for Racing and Influences09:29 Transitioning to National Racing12:00 Understanding the Costs of Racing15:03 Technical Aspects of Karting16:58 Funding and Team Dynamics18:37 Future Aspirations in Racing18:45 The Cost of Karting and Talent's Role21:13 The Path to Professional Racing24:40 Balancing School and Racing28:52 Advice for Young Racers33:55 Seeking Sponsorship and SupportTo follow Ronnie Smart:https://www.facebook.com/ronnie.karts50 Our sponsors for this episode:Hempstead House Hotel - https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/ What’s on in Kent - https://whatsoninkent.com/
In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration podcast, Rich and Meri discuss with Dan the journey of turning inspiration into action, focusing on Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), and the importance of networking. Dan shares his experiences in the SEO industry, the challenges of starting a business, and how personal experiences, including family and travel, have shaped his confidence and work ethic. The conversation highlights the significance of building relationships in business and the ethical considerations that come with client interactions. Dan's passion for football and community involvement also adds a personal touch to the discussion, emphasizing the balance between work and personal life.Key takeaways• Inspiration can come from ordinary people achieving extraordinary • SEO is crucial for businesses to increase visibility online.• Building a strong network is essential for business growth.• Starting a business often comes with significant personal challenges.• Family can be a powerful motivator in business decisions.• Confidence can be developed through experiences and challenges.• Traveling can enhance personal growth and confidence.• Football serves as a form of meditation and stress relief.• Ethics in business is vital for long-term success.• Continuous learning and adaptation are key in the ever-changing digital landscape including LinkedIn• Confidence: The Key to Success• The SEO Game: Strategies for Success• "SEO is about getting businesses to appear higher on Google."• "SEO doesn't happen overnight; it's a long-term game."Chapters00:00 Welcome to the Podcast06:32 Dan's Journey into SEO09:49 The Birth of 'Level Up Leads'14:57 Challenges and Growth in Business19:55 The Role of Google Business Profiles24:38 Networking and Building Relationships30:11 The Impact of Travel on Confidence34:49 Football Passion and Community Involvement39:36 Future Plans and Aspirations46:53 The Importance of Personal Touch in Business53:05 Inspiration and Motivation58:34 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFind Dan at www.levelupleads.co.ukAnd on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-francis-80b05b100/#SEO #google #linkedin #levelup #networking #australia
