The Start, Scale & Succeed Podcast

In this decisive episode, Chris Marr, Founder of The Authoritative Coach, shares strategies to boost confidence and authority as a coach. If you struggle with self-doubt or people-pleasing, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- How to see yourself as the prize to attract better clients- Why embracing your unique perspective builds stronger connections- How to cultivate an abundance mindset to reduce desperationThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 2 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizChris Marr is the founder of The Authoritative Coach and author of Become an Authoritative Coach: Stop People-Pleasing, Challenge Your Clients, and Be Indispensable. With over 15 years of experience, Chris has helped client-facing professionals worldwide—from small businesses to enterprises with nine-figure revenues—build stronger client relationships, navigate challenging conversations, and position themselves as indispensable experts. He created the People Pleaser’s Path to Authority assessment, a tool that helps professionals identify and break habits holding them back.Want to learn more about Chris Marr's work at The Authoritative Coach? Check out his website at https://www.theauthoritativecoach.com/, connect with him on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theauthoritativecoach/, and get a copy of his book: Become an Authoritative Coach: Stop People-Pleasing, Challenge Your Clients, and Be Indispensable.Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz

In this prudent episode, Tom Dillon, Founder of Frak Finance, shares strategies for data-driven financial decisions. If you struggle with cashflow mismatches, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- How to use rolling forecasts to predict cashflow issues- Why transparency with executives boosts team problem-solving- How to shift from gut-based to data-driven decisionsThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 4 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizTom Dillon, CFA, is a seasoned financial strategist and the driving force behind Frank Finance. With years of experience as a fractional CFO, Tom specializes in helping SMBs unlock growth through data-driven financial management, cash flow optimization, and strategic investments. His mission is to demystify complex financial concepts, empowering entrepreneurs and executives to make confident, informed decisions that fuel long-term success. His insights help entrepreneurs and executives cut through financial noise, focus on what drives profitability, and make strategic decisions with clarity and confidence.Want to learn more about Tom Dillon's work at Frak Finance? Check out his website at https://www.frakfinance.com/Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz

In this feasible episode, Christopher Filipiak, Owner of Christopher Filipiak LLC, shares strategies to stabilize your sales. If you struggle with inconsistent revenue or hiring salespeople, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- How to shift your mindset to see structure as freedom- Why mastering sales yourself ensures stable revenue growth- What systems are needed for a sales-ready organizationThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stages 2,3 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizChristopher Filipiak assists CEOs in excelling at their sales endeavors. Leveraging his background in engineering, data analytics, and Fortune 100 consulting, he integrates strategy, execution, and mindset transformation to build Sales Ready Organizations capable of achieving consistent and profitable sales. His distinctive experience merges an engineering foundation, robust business principles, and a strong emphasis on mindset, delivering a holistic approach that comprehensively transforms sales organizations.Want to learn more about Christopher Filipiak's work at Christopher Filipiak LLC? Check out his website at https://www.christopherfilipiak.com/ and find out if your organization is Sales-Ready at https://www.christopherfilipiak.com/blog/sales-readyMentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz

In this workable episode, Darryl Bates-Brownsword, Founder of Succession Plus UK, shares strategies to make your business sellable. If you struggle with exit planning or maximizing value, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- How to start exit planning early to ensure a high-value sale- Why reducing owner dependence boosts your business’s marketability- What intangible assets like IP and branding increase valuationThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stages 5,6 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizDarryl Bates-Brownsword helps business owners turn their life's work into a valuable legacy. As an expert in succession and exit planning, he works with SMEs to build resilient, sellable businesses that thrive without owner dependence. Through his 21-step methodology and Exit Insights podcast, Darryl empowers entrepreneurs to maximize business value, minimize risks, and exit on their terms. Darryl's insights are a must-hear if you're ready to secure your future and create a business buyers will love.Want to learn more about Darryl Bates-Brownsword's work at Succession Plus UK? Cconnect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrylbates-brownsword/ or check out his podcast at exitinsights.co.ukMentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz

In this perceptive episode, Andy Audate, President of AudateMedia, shares strategies for leveraging CRMs to scale your business predictably. If you struggle with disorganized customer tracking or inefficient sales processes, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why a CRM tracks customer journeys to streamline your sales process- How to choose a CRM tailored to your customer’s specific journey- What mission-critical data to capture in your CRM for profitThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 3 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizAndy Audate is an international speaker, renowned small business marketing expert, and the founder of Progreda. With a proven track record, he specializes in assisting small businesses in effectively marketing their high-ticket services through webinars that have attracted over 9,500 entrepreneurs. Andy's SaaS has achieved a seven-figure run rate, and his guidance has empowered thousands of small businesses to create marketing campaigns that have collectively generated $20+ million in revenue.Want to learn more about Andy Audate's work at AudateMedia? Try Progreda for Free for 14 Days at https://progreda.com/lory 'Buy No More Average' Book : How to Take Control of Your Mindset, Overcome Fear, Reach Peak Performance and Achieve Your Goals https://a.co/d/2FnrZUz Text ”Progress” to # 702-830-7408 for access to a FREE live webinar hosted by Andy Audate for a full breakdown of his marketing system for online business ownersMentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz

In this enlightening episode, David Hirschfeld, Founder and CEO of Tekyz Inc, shares how AI transforms entrepreneurship for non-tech and tech founders. If you struggle with leveraging AI or validating business ideas, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why AI simplifies market research and planning for stage 1 non-tech founders- How to use AI to ask the right questions for business success- What Launch First methodology prioritizes sales before building productsThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stages 1,2 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizDavid Hirschfeld is a 35-year software development veteran. David's career spans leadership roles at tech giants like Computer Associates, Texas Instruments, Intel, and Motorola before launching his first startup—which grew to 800 customers across 22 countries and was successfully sold in 2000. David has emerged as a strategic advisor specializing in AI-driven workflow transformation for scaleups and in the design & development of startups. He developed the Launch 1st Method—a systematic approach that minimizes risks and accelerates software company success with reduced reliance on investor funding.Want to learn more about David Hirschfeld's work at Tekyz Inc? Check out his website at https://tekyz.com/Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz

In this compelling episode, Roy Reid, Owner of www.roywreid.com/, shares strategies to build trust as a leadership operating system. If you struggle with low trust or team tension, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why trust is your leadership operating system for stage 4 success- How to identify trust levels in team relationships to address tension- What trust contract fosters accountability and cultural alignmentThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 4 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizRoy Reid helps CEOs, executives, and entrepreneurs go from frustrated, overwhelmed, and weary from the pains of a low-trust culture (or distrust in themselves) to confident, satisfied, and encouraged, improving their health, well-being, and performance. He helps them develop resilient and courageous teams that foster a high-trust culture where people feel safe, do the right thing, deliver outstanding service, and strive to improve daily performance.Want to learn more about Roy Reid's work at roywreid.com/? Check out his website at thetrusttransformation.comMentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz

In this magnetic episode, Richard Reid, Founder of Richard Reid Enterprises (IoM) Limited, shares strategies to develop authentic charisma for leadership. If you struggle with connecting authentically or feeling inauthentic as a leader, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why charisma is about connection, not extroversion, for stage 4 leadership- How to cultivate presence through vulnerability to inspire your team- What small, incremental changes in communication enhance your authentic influenceThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 4 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizRichard Reid is a UK-based therapist, coach, and organizational wellbeing expert with over 20 years of experience. As the founder of Pinnacle Wellbeing Plus, he has worked with high-profile clients, including executives and entrepreneurs, offering tailored mental health, leadership, and cultural transformation solutions. Richard specializes in trauma recovery, executive presence, and fostering positive workplace cultures. His acclaimed books, The Charisma Edge and Cure Your Phobia in 24 Hours, showcase his expertise. Outlets like Sky News and BBC frequently feature him.Want to learn more about Richard Reid's work at Richard Reid Enterprises (IoM) Limited? Check out his website at http://www.richard-reid.com/Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz

In this practical episode, Debbie Plager shares strategies to align your leadership team and structure for scalable growth. If you face organizational chaos or misaligned teams, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why pausing to assess strategy prevents growing pains.- How to align leaders using data-driven insights.- What the 70/100 rule means for org design.This episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 4 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizDebbie Plager is a dynamic executive coach with over 20 years of experience empowering leaders to unlock their potential and drive meaningful organizational change. She specializes in helping executives elevate their careers, refine strategic thinking, and enhance team effectiveness through tailored coaching. Debbie’s approach blends the art and science of leadership, utilizing assessments and stakeholder feedback to set clear, actionable goals that align with her client’s aspirations. Debbie’s commitment to sustainable growth ensures she equips her clients with tools and a mindset for long-term success.Want to learn more about Debbie Plager's work at The Plager Group? Check out her website at https://theplagergroup.com/Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz

In this insightful episode, Tanya Akimenko shares strategies to prepare for IRS audits and simplify business finances. If you fear audits or lack financial clarity, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why proactive financial prep prevents audit stress and boosts decisions.- How to choose a trusted tax pro for audit support.- What to do when you receive an IRS audit notice.This episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 4 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizTanya Akimenko is a business finance expert and founder of Golden Apple Agency Inc., dedicated to helping entrepreneurs understand the heartbeat of their business—finances. With nearly 20 years of experience, she simplifies complex financial topics, empowering business owners to make smarter decisions, stay audit-ready, and drive profitability. Known for her straightforward approach, Tanya ensures that business owners aren’t just compliant but confident in their finances, using accounting as a tool for growth. Her passion lies in breaking down barriers to financial clarity, making accounting an asset rather than an obstacle.Want to learn more about Tanya Akimenko's work at Golden Apple Agency Inc? Check out her website at https://www.goldenappleagencyinc.com?Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz