Why chasing growth can trap entrepreneurs: Brad Giles on building a better business

In today’s episode, host Cec Busby sits down with Brad Giles—business coach, entrepreneur, and author of the new book, "Bigger Isn’t Better, Better is Better."

Brad brings over 25 years of experience, having founded multiple companies and created more than a thousand strategic plans with CEOs and owner-led businesses. In this conversation, Brad challenges the common narrative that business growth is always about getting bigger. Instead, he suggests that the real path to success and freedom lies in building a better business—one that works for you, your team, and your customers.

Key topics

1. Rethinking Growth: Bigger Isn’t Always Better

• Brad challenges the conventional wisdom that “growth for growth’s sake” is the best path for business success.

• He warns that chasing bigger teams or higher turnover can lead to burnout, stress, and disconnection from the lifestyle entrepreneurs truly want.

• The focus should shift to building a “better” business—one that serves the owner, team, and customers sustainably.

2. The Power of Mindset and Defining Success

• Brad’s book centers on the idea that building a better business starts with a shift in mindset, not just chasing bigger numbers.

• Defining what you really want out of life and business is essential—success is personal and requires clarity.

• Owners should design their business to achieve “freedom,” whether that means more time, less stress, or a more enjoyable work environment.

3. Combating “Drift” in Key Business Areas

• Businesses naturally “drift” into problems if not actively managed—teams drift to toxicity, customers to indifference, offerings to mediocrity, and financials to unprofitability.

• Regularly working “on” the business, not just “in” it, is crucial to counteract this drift and maintain growth in quality.

• Compounding improvements in four areas—team, customers, offerings, financials—leads to a sustainable, thriving business.

4. Building a Team and Culture with Soul

• Owner-led companies have a unique advantage: they can build a business with “soul” that attracts top talent seeking meaning, not just a paycheck.

• To stand out against soulless corporations, focus on culture, purpose, and creating an environment where people want to work.

• Use tools like a “role scorecard” and a clearly defined “employee promise” to attract and retain A-players who fit your business vision.

Time-stamped overview

00:00 Finding Life's Purpose with Passion

06:32 "Pursuing Freedom or a Trap?"

08:02 "Preventing Business Drift"

13:29 "Owner-Led vs. Corporate: Cultivating Soul"

16:13 "Owner-Led Companies: Challenges & Advantages"

19:17 Optimizing Onboarding for Success

24:58 "Defining Sacrifice for Success"

27:20 Designing Success: Life by Choice

29:44 "Chasing Meaning Over Growth"

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