Flying Solo

People and culture specialist Claire Gray, author of the new book Thriving Teams: When Teams Unite, Align and Achieve, dives into what truly makes a business excel—whether you’re leading a handful of people, working with an evolving group of freelancers, or just starting to build your own crew. Claire shares insights from her extensive experience in leadership development, team dynamics, and her own entrepreneurial journey. We cover the essentials of building strong teams, the difference between simply performing and genuinely thriving, and why understanding your purpose and practicing quality conversations can make all the difference. You’ll also learn practical strategies for fostering psychological safety, empathy, and accountability, even when your team is made up of remote workers or freelancers. Key topics 1. The Essentials of Thriving Teams Key differences between dysfunctional, complacent, performing, and thriving teams Importance of purpose, meaningful work, and strong relationships Psychological safety as a foundation for honest conversations and innovation 2. Leadership Skills and Development Common leadership gaps, especially in small businesses and among new leaders The growing value of “soft” (human) skills like empathy and feedback The three facets of authentic leadership: empathy, assertiveness, adaptiveness 3. Creating Alignment and Accountability Defining clear roles, goals, and behavioral expectations as teams grow Importance of regular, quality conversations to build alignment Shared accountability and giving/receiving feedback within the team 4. Fostering Healthy Team Culture Encouraging healthy debate and curiosity for growth and innovation Building human connection and togetherness, even with remote or freelance teams Incorporating rituals and intentionality in meetings for engagement 5. Practical Steps and Resources Tips for discovering purpose and leveraging team strengths Addressing misalignment or tension through open communication and curiosity Resources like Claire Gray ’s book and practical tools for team development Time-stamped overview 00:00 From Psychology to HR Journey 03:06 Leadership Skills Gap Insights 06:45 "Defining Purpose at Four Levels" 13:07 "Psychological Safety and Team Alignment" 14:08 Fostering Open, Respectful Conversations 17:20 "Psychological Safety and Accountability" 20:46 Empathy, Authenticity, Adaptive Leadership 24:09 "Effective and Intentional Meetings" 30:08 "Fostering Quality Conversations" 31:19 "Thriving Team Insights with Claire" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Melinda McCormack unpacks the growing sense of isolation many of us feel—at work, in our communities, and even at home—thanks to our fast-paced, tech-heavy lives. In this episode, we explore the art and science of empathy, drawing from Melinda McCormack’s decades of experience helping leaders and teams navigate challenging emotional terrain. With insights from her new book, “Pulse: Empathy Is Your Edge,” you’ll discover a practical, five-step framework for building trust, breaking through resistance, and creating truly sustainable change. Key topics 1. The Challenge of Disconnection and the Need for Empathy Modern life’s disconnection fueled by technology and excessive screen time Emotional overwhelm and resistance to change as common experiences Empathy as a critical tool to rebuild genuine human connection 2. Melinda McCormack’s Personal Story and Empathy Mission Inspired by the experience of raising her son after losing her partner Focused on building emotional strength and resilience in herself and her son Transformation from adversity to an advocacy for empathy and emotional awareness 3. The Pulse Framework for Empathy Purpose: Anchoring in personal values and “why” Understanding: Building self-awareness of emotional patterns (“emotional DNA”) Learning and Shifting: Developing emotional skills, forming new habits, reframing thoughts Embracing Change: Combining emotional agility with rational decision-making 4. Bringing Empathy to Work and Leadership Emotional intelligence reframed as a business-critical skill, not just “soft” Importance of authentic, adaptable leadership in an age of rapid change and AI Creating psychological safety, inclusion, and trust in teams 5. Everyday Practices and Repairing Disconnection Techniques for self-check-ins and intentional emotional responses Approaches to overcoming resistance, self-limiting beliefs, and perfectionism Practical steps for mending relationships—apologizing, humility, and face-to-face connection Time-stamped overview 00:00 Empathy's Role in Strength and Growth 03:49 "From Struggle to Connection" 07:12 "Human-centered Leadership in AI Era" 12:46 Emotional Agility and Self-Trust 15:28 "Shifting Beliefs for Growth" 18:27 "Beliefs Drive Daily Self-Check" 21:55 Call Centre Frustration Experience 26:39 Reframing Change for Collaboration 28:30 "Humanity, Empathy, and Connection" 32:12 "Empathy: Your Edge" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From his humble beginnings in a working-class family to conquering the high-stakes trading floors of London, Andrew Baxter shares how those early struggles shaped his money mindset—and why he believes financial freedom is possible for anyone who’s willing to learn the process. Andrew breaks down the myths and realities of investing, the emotional roadblocks that often hold us back, and practical steps for building wealth—even during tough economic times. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to level up your finances, you’ll hear relatable stories, actionable advice, and an insider’s look at how everyday Australians can use knowledge, strategy, and a little courage to create a more secure future. Get ready to rethink your approach to money, overcome those common investing mistakes, and discover what it really takes to crack the wealth code. Key topics Absolutely! Here’s a condensed sequence of the episode’s major themes, each with a few supporting bullets: 1. Andrew's Background and Money Mindset Grew up in a working-class home with limited financial resources Influence of upbringing on his motivation to succeed and views about money Early career shift from small-town life to high-stakes London finance 2. Career Transitions and Search for Fulfilment Experience on the competitive London trading floor (the reality vs the “Billions” myth) Decision to leave London seeking more fulfillment and life balance Relocating to Australia, embracing new opportunities and challenges 3. Making Investing Accessible: Education & The Wealth Playbook Founding Australian Investment Education after teaching on the golf course Philosophy: Focus on process, consistency, and removing jargon The Wealth Playbook aims to demystify investing for everyday Australians 4. Advice for Business Owners and Professionals The necessity of having multiple income streams in uncertain economic times Overcoming ego and professional pride to pursue side hustles Adapting to AI and technological changes through upskilling 5. Common Financial Mistakes and Keys to Success Letting emotion and ego override disciplined decision-making Importance of building a process and learning before acting Taking action—avoiding both procrastination and recklessness Time-stamped overview 00:00 "City of London Finance Journey" 04:33 Success Without Fulfillment 07:02 "Dot-Com Era to Investment Journey" 10:25 "Investing Requires a Strong Why" 13:29 "Success Requires Strategy, Not Emotion" 18:26 Overcoming Ego in Professional Services 20:17 AI's Impact on Professional Careers 24:38 "Creating Tomorrow's Wealth Today" 28:37 "Boosting Business Cash Flow Strategies" 29:44 "Building Wealth Through Education" 34:57 "Learn Once, Grow Forever" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jordana Borensztajn is a comedian, keynote speaker, communication expert, and now, author of The Little Book of Influence. From being escorted off Facebook’s Silicon Valley campus  when she was dressed as a giant, like button to being booed on a cruise ship and even suffering an egg-related injury, Jordana has experienced her fair share of epic fails. But instead of shying away from these cringe-worthy moments, she’s turned them into comedy gold and powerful lessons on resilience, vulnerability, and authentic communication. Jordana shares how she mines her most embarrassing moments for laughter and learning, why leaning into vulnerability is so crucial for business owners, and how her “Presence Framework” can help anyone connect and influence more authentically. Plus, she opens up about the power of finding joy, the importance of listening to your body, and how her passion for magic and mentalism unlocked unexpected creativity during lockdown. Key topics 1. Turning Failure into Power and Comedy     Jordana Borensztajn uses personal and professional failures as material for growth and stand-up.     Signature story: the Facebook 'Like' costume incident and lessons in resilience and congruence. Encourages sharing failures to reduce the stigma and normalise vulnerability. 2. Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity Importance of showing up honestly in business and communication. Self-reflection: questioning if current choices make you happy or serve your goals. Authenticity as essential for genuine connection and influence. 3. The Presence Framework for Influence PRESENCE acronym for transformative communication. The power of nonverbal signals, congruence, and embodying your whole self. Practical tools like the “glitter chest” technique for confident presence. 4. Managing Pressure and Prioritising Wellbeing Advice for business owners to let go of perfection and prioritize health. Value of self-care activities: rest, hydration, meditation, movement\ Giving yourself permission to pause and recharge to avoid burnout. 5. The Joy of New Experiences: Magic and Mentalism Jordana Borensztajn explores magic duringlockdown, finding awe and playfulness. Using magic to facilitate wonder and learn about how people approach life. Integrating magic and mentalism into her professional toolkit. Time-stamped overview 00:00 Turning Cringe Into Comedy 03:41 From Comedy to Connection 07:50 Accused of Being Outside Mark's house 11:47 Authenticity Through Vulnerability 16:26 "Stories Inspiring Growth & Joy" 18:29 Authenticity Over Perfection 20:57 Dancing Breaks Fear Loops 26:46 Easing Perfection Pressure for Entrepreneurs 28:59 Energy Management Through Mindfulness 31:58 Magic: Love, Hate, or Revealing 35:30 Podcast Recap and Reminder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Paul Taylor is a former Royal Navy air crew officer turned neuroscientist, psychologist, and exercise physiologist, to break down the concept of ‘Death by Comfort’, Dr. Taylor’s new book, The Hardiness Effect, explores how embracing a little stress and discomfort can make us stronger, sharper, and healthier. Dr Taylor dives into the science behind resilience, the dangers of modern convenience, and practical strategies for building mental and physical toughness—like cold showers, purposeful challenges, and reframing stress as an opportunity for growth. Whether you’re a small business owner wrestling with burnout or simply feeling stuck in a rut, this conversation offers actionable advice and fresh perspective for building a life with more energy, meaning, and resilience. Key topics 1. The Hardiness Effect: Foundations and Background Dr Paul Taylor’s diverse expertise (military, neuroscience, psychology, exercise physiology). Modern comfort is disconnecting us from ancestral stressors needed for resilience.  Hardiness combines mind and body for optimal health. Dr Taylor’s motivation for writing and research comes from both lived experience and scientific evidence. 2. Stress, Adaptation, and Practical Resilience Exposure to intermittent stress (exercise, cold, psychological challenge) strengthens body and mind. Simple habits like cold showers and breath control can build resilience. Psychological orientation: viewing stressors as challenges boosts recovery and growth. Deliberate discomfort and self-reflection reinforce confidence and adaptability. 3. The Role of Lifestyle and Technology Sedentary lifestyles and processed diets are misaligned with our genetic needs. Tech habits and excessive screen time drain attention, mood, and engagement in life. Healthy routines—exercise, nutrition, sleep, hobbies (Ikigai)—empower resilience. Balance is crucial: active participation trumps passive consumption for well-being. 4. Burnout, Mental Health, and Applying Hardiness Entrepreneurs are especially susceptible to burnout due to chronic stress. Recovery means engaging in energising, restorative activities—not just relaxation. Major signs of bad stress include low energy, motivation, and social withdrawal. Building hardiness: set boundaries, cultivate gratitude, and embrace life’s challenges.  Timestamped overview 00:00 "Hardiness: Strength Through Discomfort" 03:48 "Modern Life Mismatches Our Genome" 06:50 "Stress Builds Cellular Resilience" 12:13 Stress Inoculation and Growth 15:38 "Building Resilience Through Challenges" 18:05 Embrace Adversity, Build Confidence 20:14 "Finding Purpose and Setting Boundaries" 23:52 Life Beyond Screen Time 26:29 Preventing Burnout Early 30:34 "1 in 400 Trillion Life"   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donna McGeorge is a productivity expert and bestselling author. In her latest book, Red Brick Thinking’ Donna shares why our instinct to always add more—tasks, meetings, apps—might be holding us back, and how strategic subtraction can help us achieve more with less stress. In this chat, we dive into practical ways to break up with the busy, how to set healthy boundaries (without guilt!), and why younger generations are leading the charge in prioritising health over hustle. If you’re a business owner or freelancer looking to lighten your workload, make smarter decisions, and rethink what you “have” to do, this conversation will leave you inspired to red brick your day and build a happier, more productive life.  Key topics 1. Red Brick Thinking and Productivity Philosophy Donna McGeorge’s concept: focus on what can be removed rather than added (“strategic subtraction” vs. “addition bias”) Encourages breaking away from hustle culture and overwork Red Brick Thinking promotes achieving more by doing less 2. Mindset Shifts for Small Business Owners The tendency to feel obligated to do everything, especially for soloists who “are the business” Importance of questioning self-imposed rules and what tasks truly add value Cultivating boundaries and saying “no” without guilt 3. Practical Subtraction Strategies Audit meetings, clients, and daily activities to identify what can be stopped Reduce time-wasting meetings by focusing on purpose and outcome (e.g., 25-minute meetings) Use technology mindfully—eliminate unnecessary apps/tools and leverage AI only for clear business problems 4. Shaping the Future of Work and Wellbeing Trends toward four-day workweeks and slower, balanced work lives Post-pandemic increased focus on health and work-life boundaries The value of downtime and boredom for creativity and better decision making Timestamped overview 00:00 "Red Brick Thinking Explained" 05:25 "Questioning the Value of Busyness" 07:27 "Rethinking Unnoticed Efforts" 11:53 "Clear Goals for Meetings" 13:30 "AI: Solving Problems, Not Clutter" 18:04 "Respecting Boundaries Builds Understanding" 21:46 "Will It Make the Boat Faster?" 25:49 "The Danger of Constant On" 27:50 AI, Productivity, and Four-Day Week 30:20 Reducing the Weight of Obligation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Peter Baines is one of Australia’s most impactful solopreneurs. After serving as a forensic investigator and responding to major disasters like the Bali bombings and Boxing Day tsunami, Peter found his purpose in building children's charity Hands Across the Water.  In this episode of Flying Solo, he shares advice on finding a journey worthy of your heart and soul, as well as practical guidance for small business owners seeking to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Whether you’re searching for purpose or curious about integrating philanthropy into your business, this conversation is packed with lessons on resilience, leadership, and the transformative power of doing good. Key topics 1. The Journey of 'Hands Across the Water' Peter’s background as a forensic investigator and his response to the Boxing Day tsunami. Founding the charity to support orphaned children in Thailand. Realisation that the work was ongoing after building the first home. Growth from helping a few children to supporting hundreds with homes and educational opportunities. 2. Finding and Sustaining Purpose Making an impact doesn’t require a profound life event; small actions matter. Importance of finding a cause or activity that brings meaning beyond financial goals. Personal fulfillment often comes from helping others or the community. Value in choosing a journey “worthy of one’s heart and soul.” 3. Integrating Social Responsibility for Small Businesses CSR and philanthropy aren’t just for large corporations—small businesses can make a difference. Shift from one-way giving (philanthropy) to reciprocal, mutually beneficial partnerships with charities. Importance of aligning business values with charity partners and setting clear expectations. Engaging employees and stakeholders in meaningful causes enhances buy-in and impact. 4. Overcoming Challenges and Leadership Lessons Navigating unexpected setbacks, such as the COVID crisis and loss of funding. Lessons in resilience: drawing hope from challenging experiences and colleagues. Effective crisis leadership means making courageous decisions and staying present. Advice to listeners: pursue causes that are personally meaningful and sustainable, and do your due diligence. Timestamped overview 00:00 Forensic Investigator: Bali to Tsunami 06:06 Building a charity 09:52 Expanding charity Impact in Thailand 11:53 Rethinking Corporate Social Responsibility 15:08 "Choosing the right partners" 18:03 Effective CSR Partnerships explained 24:25 "Resilience amidst challenges" 26:56 Leadership lessons from crisis 31:37 Choosing meaningful causes for business 34:08 "Sustainable, meaningful partnerships matter" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cooper Chapman is a former top-100 professional surfer who has transformed his passion for riding waves into a mission for improving mental health and wellbeing. Cooper is the founder of The Good Human Factory, an organisation dedicated to equipping everyday Aussies with practical mental health tools. Drawing from his elite sports background and personal journey, Cooper shares how small, consistent habits, such as spending just 14 minutes a day on gratitude and meditation, can make a world of difference. His new book, The 1% Good Club, unpacks this philosophy and provides actionable tips for living a clearer, calmer, and more intentional life. If you’re looking for inspiration to take charge of your own wellbeing—one small step at a time—this is a must-listen conversation. Key topics 1. Cooper Chapman’s Journey from Surfing to Mental Health Advocacy Early start as a competitive surfer in North Narrabeen, Sydney, and rapid rise to international competition Experiences with loss of sponsorship and transition from professional surfing to other work Personal and family experiences with mental illness and suicide influencing his new purpose 2. The Good Human Factory: Mission and Initiatives Founding The Good Human Factory to promote mental well-being Began with mental health workshops in schools, later expanded to corporate and sporting groups Focuses on practical, science-backed skills for everyday mental health (not just illness awareness) Runs a podcast featuring experts, sells positive-message merchandise, and builds mental health communities Partnerships like Blue Minds program address eco anxiety and climate issues in schools 3. The 1% Good Club and the Power of Daily Habits Concept of dedicating 1% of the day (~14 minutes) to mental health practices Daily structure: meditation and gratitude exercises within an Instagram accountability group Impact on participants, with strong testimonials and continued growth of the free community Emphasis on consistent, small actions for meaningful change 4. Science and Practical Benefits of Gratitude Neuroscientific research shows daily gratitude improves well-being by boosting positive brain chemicals Chapman integrates gratitude practices into workshops, book, and community activities Reframes “gratitude” from being “woo-woo” to a proven mental health tool Practical tips: use moments like meals or toothbrushing to reflect on the good in life 5. Navigating Stress and Building Resilience Acknowledgment of prevalent modern anxieties: eco, AI, burnout, and financial stress Grounding and self-care habits—breath work, exercise, time in nature—help regulate stress Importance of self-compassion and striving for “progress, not perfection” with healthy habits Encouragement to take small, daily steps to improve mental well-being and manage adversity Timestamped overview 00:00 From Nippers to Surfing Success 04:23 "Mindset Shifts in Adversity" 09:13 "Good Human Origin Story" 11:09 Cultivating Mental Health Strategies 14:40 "1% Daily Mental Health Habit" 18:27 Daily Gratitude Sparks Positivity 23:21 "Habits for Feeling Your Best" 25:25 "Healthy Habits and Accountability" 28:26 "Habits to Calm Your Mind" 31:01 "Passionate About Mental Health" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Flying Solo, Cec Busby sits down with Leanne Faulkner, a small business mental health expert, researcher, and former entrepreneur. Leanne shares her inspiring journey from building Billy Goat Soap—a business sparked by her son's eczema—to becoming a leading advocate for the mental health and wellbeing of soloists and micro business owners. Leanne offers fresh research insights and practical strategies tailored specifically for solo business owners. Tune in to hear about the unique pressures facing soloists, how to build resilience, set healthy boundaries, and the importance of community and continued learning to thrive as a one-person business. Key Topics 1. Unique Pressures for Soloists and Micro Business Owners Soloists often wear multiple hats, handling everything from admin to strategy without the support larger businesses have. Isolation is a major challenge, as many work from home without the informal support networks found in a traditional workplace. Financial strain is common, with many soloists paying themselves last and rarely having resources for self-investment. The lack of formal structure or HR resources means boundaries and self-care practices often fall by the wayside. 2. Strategies for Building Resilience and Maintaining Mental Health Establishing clear workplace boundaries (e.g., defined work hours, separation of work and personal life) helps prevent burnout. Building and maintaining peer networks, such as joining business groups or coworking spaces, is vital for emotional and practical support. Forming or joining accountability or support groups can provide both business and wellbeing check-ins. Continual self-education and openness to learning play a crucial role in resilience and thriving as a soloist. 3. The Importance of Control and Power in Business Owner Wellbeing Thriving soloists typically have systems that help them feel in control—such as client agreements, prepayment systems, and sales/cash flow forecasts. Having an exit strategy from the start allows for more confident, strategic decision-making. Recognising and addressing power imbalances in client relationships (e.g., saying no to unreasonable demands or unpaid work) is essential for mental health. 4. The Need for Broader Support and Policy Changes The responsibility for small business mental health shouldn’t fall solely on owners; big businesses and government should enact policies that support their wellbeing. Advocating for fair compensation when small business owners provide expertise to corporates or government (e.g., through focus groups or consulting). The business ecosystem should develop safeguards like fair deadlines, timely payments, and clearly communicated expectations to protect small suppliers. There has been progress with resources (e.g., New Access, Ahead for Business), but extending the conversation to policy is the next step. Time-stamped overview 00:00 "Entrepreneurship and Mental Health Insights" 05:10 Entrepreneurship's Toll: Depression Struggle 08:52 "Challenges of Micro Business Owners" 13:41 "Leveraging Informal Support Networks" 16:01 Thriving at Work: Key Insights 20:08 Solo Entrepreneurs: Balancing Control & Wellbeing 23:17 "Work Control and Financial Planning" 25:55 "Business Strategy: Chess vs. Checkers" 31:09 Compensating Experts for Government Focus Groups 33:32 "Rethinking Professional Networking" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Cec Busby sits down with negotiation whiz Glin Bailey. Glin's a coach, author, speaker, and all-around professional who has helped everyone from big-name executives to small business owners sharpen their negotiating skills. Today, Glin is sharing all her best advice from her book, The Negotiation Playbook, and breaking down simple, practical ways you can get better results in your business—whether you’re trying to land a new client, hire your first team member, or just want the confidence to ask for what you deserve. Cec and Glin talk about why negotiation is really all about creating value, how to get comfortable with feeling uncomfortable, and why a little planning goes a long way. Key Topics 1. Why Negotiation Really Matters Negotiation pops up everywhere in business—whether you’re closing a deal or hiring someone new. If you actually want to get better results, you need to get good at it—and be bold enough to ask for what you want. Having solid negotiation skills means you’re way more confident and don’t leave value on the table. 2. Getting Comfortable with the Awkward Stuff Most of us talk ourselves out of asking for more before the real negotiation even starts. Negotiation can (and probably should) feel uncomfortable—if it doesn’t, you’re playing it too safe. Growth happens when you push yourself out of your comfort zone, even if it feels a bit cringey. 3. Working Together Beats Going to Battle You can negotiate by trying to “win” everything or by working with the other person to find a sweet spot. The best deals actually come from working together, not just trying to one-up someone. It pays off to be a “diplomat”—aiming for both a great result and a good relationship. 4. How to Actually Get Better at Negotiation Glynn’s VALUE framework lays it out: know your Value, Analyse the info, find your Leverage, accept being Uncomfortable, and Execute your plan. Prep is everything—don’t just wing it, know what you want before you start. Don’t just focus on price; add more things to the conversation (like timing, flexibility, perks) so there are more ways for everyone to win. Timestamped overview 00:00 Kid Negotiators: From Fearless to Shy 03:42 Career Shift: Finance to Coaching 09:19 Negotiation: Character & Teamwork 10:55 Collaboration: Balancing Winning and Relationships 15:13 Boosting Your Negotiation Game 18:06 Rethink Hiring: Plan a 3-Year Journey 22:34 "Negotiation: More Than Just Price" 24:03 "From Shy Teen to Deal-Maker" 27:39 "Negotiation: Plan Like a Dinner Party" 31:45 Negotiation Tips for Success 34:52 Boosting Growth with Better Conversations 38:26 "Boost Your Negotiation Game" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices