Flying Solo

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

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" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

[Trigger warning] This episode of Flying Solo discusses depression and suicidal ideation. Listener discretion is advised. On this episode of Flying Solo, host Cec Busby dives deep into a topic that too often remains in the shadows: men’s mental health. With Are You OK? Day around the corner and financial, emotional, and social pressures weighing heavily on solo business owners, now is the time for an honest conversation. Cec is joined by John Broadbent—men's mental health advocate, business owner, coach, and author of Man Unplugged—to share his personal journey from emotional shutdown and loss to self-discovery and healing. Together, they explore why men remain overrepresented in suicide statistics, the shifting cultural expectations around masculinity, and why sharing our stories and showing vulnerability is so critical. Whether you're running your own business or simply looking to better understand the men in your life, this episode is packed with heartfelt insights and hope for change. Key topics 1. Men’s Mental Health: The Crisis, Causes, and Stigma High rates of suicide among Australian men; ongoing stigma around seeking help Traditional expectations of masculinity (provider, protector, stoic) vs. shifting cultural norms The impact of isolation, low self-worth, and reluctance to discuss feelings 2. John Broadbent’s Personal and Professional Journey Experiencing emotional awakening, loss, and rebuilding after personal and business setbacks Finding healing through workshops, mentorship, and self-exploration Writing "Man Unplugged" and evolving as a leader and advocate in men’s personal development 3. Breaking Through: Emotional Literacy and Honest Conversation The importance of vulnerability, open communication, and emotional skills for men Practical steps: Level 1-3 conversations for deepening relationships Teaching emotional literacy to boys and supporting men in expressing emotions beyond anger 4. Solutions, Support, and Hope for the Future The value of safe spaces, group work, and community support for men Shifting the narrative: inclusive dialogue for lasting cultural change Hope found in younger generations and in men opening up when given the opportunity Timestamped overview 00:00 Rethinking Men's Mental Health 05:16 Epiphany Through Reading Journey 09:17 "Reflecting on My Ancestral Timeline" 11:21 Embracing Change and Growth 13:09 "Man Unplugged: Understanding Midlife Transitions" 19:13 Deepening Conversations for Genuine Connection 20:04 "Importance of Deep Conversations" 23:20 Encouraging Emotional Awareness in Men 28:38 "Emotional Availability in Relationships" 32:03 Shame, Violence, and Domestic Abuse 36:11 Men's Retreats Foster Emotional Growth 37:56 Support Resources and John’s Story Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Flying Solo, Cec Busby sits down with Chris Green. Chris has over two decades of experience helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses to success. So if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos of running your own business, Chris brings practical advice and tried-and-true strategies to help you shift from a stressed-out, overloaded operator to an effective leader with a scalable, rewarding business. Cec and Chris unpack the common pitfalls that hold small business owners back, the crucial mindset shift needed to break through the “entrepreneurial ceiling,” and the modern, actionable ways to document processes and empower your team. Whether you’re a solo act or leading a growing crew, this episode is packed with insights to help you work smarter, build capacity, and future-proof your business. Tune in for a conversation that’s both inspiring and immediately actionable for anyone striving to run a business by design—not by default. Key topics 1. Transitioning from Technician to Leader Business owners often default to operational, hands-on roles that limit growth. Key step: Shift your mindset, redefine your role, and focus on building systems and empowering your team. Getting support from mentors or coaches and embracing discomfort is crucial for real change. 2. Systematising and Scaling Your Business Document processes using modern tools (video, screen capture) to make knowledge accessible. Capturing systems reduces key-person risk, enables smooth team onboarding, and supports business continuity. Regularly update operational practices to keep pace with business growth and staffing changes. 3. Building the Right Team and Culture Move beyond technical hiring; prioritise curiosity, appetite for learning, and cultural alignment. Invest in developing your team’s capacity, structuring performance reviews, and fostering a supportive, “safe to fail” environment. Clear vision and values help attract, retain, and motivate the right people. 4. Practical Strategy & Managing Economic Challenges Blend inspirational long-term vision with practical, actionable steps (like 90-day and annual plans). Don’t be distracted by negative business failure statistics—focus on controllable factors like customer fit and process improvement. Soloists and small business owners should carve out time for business development, innovation, and continual learning. Timestamped overview 00:00 Turning Consulting Insights into Books 05:00 Breaking Through the Entrepreneurial Ceiling 08:38 Leadership Accountability: Focus On Yourself 10:25 "Modernizing Operation Manuals" 16:15 "Aligning Culture with Strategy" 20:00 "Strategic Hiring and Retention Shift" 22:59 Balancing Inspiration and Strategy 27:19 Business Success Odds vs. Media Narrative 28:28 Building Confidence in Business Growth 32:06 Chris Green AU: Book & Resources Online Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cec Busby sits down with Renata Squario, an expert with over three decades of experience in learning and development and the founder of MaxMe. After 30 years in the corporate world, Renata made it her mission to democratise the development of “human skills”—the personal and interpersonal strengths we need to thrive in business and life, but rarely get taught. Cec and Renata dive deep into the true power of coaching, why fear of failure and imposter syndrome hold so many of us back, and what it really takes to bring humanity and connection into the workplace. Renata offers genuine insights and practical tips you can use today—no massive budget required. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about valuing soft skills, challenging the status quo, and leading with empathy in a changing world. Key topics: 1. The Power of Human Skills and Coaching Coaching is about unlocking answers within a person, not providing directives. Human or “soft” skills like communication, empathy, and collaboration are critical for success, yet often undervalued and under-taught. These skills are essential for both personal growth and effective workplace performance. 2. Overcoming Barriers: Fear of Failure & Imposter Syndrome Fear of failure and risk aversion commonly hold people back from growth and self-actualization. Imposter syndrome often affects high performers, fueled by lack of confidence, cultural background, and unappreciative work environments. Learning from mistakes is essential; failure can be a powerful teacher. 3. Building Healthy Workplace Culture and Leadership Genuine leadership involves creating a culture of connection, authenticity, and valuing employees. Post-pandemic, there’s a heightened focus on well-being, purpose, and employee engagement, especially in virtual environments. Investing in staff development and fostering a positive work culture aids in retention and organizational success. 4. Practical Strategies for Small Businesses Soft skill development is accessible and should be prioritized, even on limited budgets. Simple steps: active listening, authentic connection, servant leadership, and making employees feel valued. If facing workplace toxicity, self-reflection and open conversations are crucial before making changes. Timestamped overview 00:00 Empowering Self-Discovery Through Coaching 05:26 Amplified Imposter Syndrome and Culture 06:32 Migrant Roots Spark Imposter Syndrome 12:49 "Championing Soft Skills in Education" 16:23 Prioritize Staff Development Over Costs 18:47 Leadership Challenges in Modern Virtual World 21:16 Workplace Reflection and Communication Guide 24:16 Rethink Recruiting: Focus on Willingness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Melissa Laurie is the founder of Oysterly Media—a fast-growing social video agency that’s making big waves across Australia, Asia, and beyond. With over 1000s of followers on TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn, plus brand collaborations with giants like Hilton and Microsoft, Melissa is redefining how brands use short form video to connect with their audiences. Together, Cec and Melissa dive deep into the power of short form video, the rising impact of employee-generated content, and what it takes for small businesses to really stand out on social media. Melissa shares actionable tips, insights on emerging trends like social search and YouTube Shorts, and busts common myths about building an authentic brand presence online. If you’re a small business owner, marketer, or entrepreneur ready to take your social media game to the next level, this episode is packed with real-world advice you can start using today. Key topics 1. The Power of Short Form Video Rapid growth across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts Effective way for brands to build trust and capture attention Short, engaging content requires both creativity and strategy 2. Employee Generated Content (EGC) Empowers staff to create authentic, engaging videos for company profiles Helps activate employee engagement, attract talent, and advertise naturally Training and confidence-building are essential for effective EGC 3. Making Content Stand Out The first few seconds (“first frame”) are crucial to stop the scroll Research trending searches and questions to create relevant videos Use pattern interruptions and creativity to maintain viewer interest 4. Evolving Social Search and Discovery Social platforms are overtaking traditional SEO for product/service discovery Incorporate keywords and answer search-driven questions in videos YouTube Shorts presents an untapped marketing opportunity, especially in Australia 5. Building Your Personal and Business Brand Founder-led content humanises brands and builds recognition Regular, value-driven posting helps refine skills and grow audience Experimenting with styles and staying authentic are key to success Timestamped overview 00:00 "Trailblazing in Social Media" 05:05 Employee-Generated Content Benefits 07:44 Boosting Camera Confidence for Cafes 10:20 Captivate with Cafe Art Magic 14:00 Search Strategy: Engaging Your Audience 18:43 Boost Business with Strategic Video Scripts 22:42 Cross-Platform Short Video Strategy 26:36 Thought Leadership in Video Marketing 27:52 "Engaging Video Content Tips" 33:08 Social Media Video Mastery Tips 34:40 "Follow Melissa Laurie Online" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices