Flying Solo

Shani Taylor is an award-winning business coach, speaker, best-selling author, and even hailed as the Global Coach of the Year by the Duchess of York. Her passion lies in empowering everyday Aussies to become masters of leadership, sales, and human behaviour, ensuring they can scale their businesses without facing burnout.In this episode, Shani shares her unique journey from a challenging upbringing to her phenomenal success, where she grew her business from scratch to an international success story, serving clients in 25 countries. We'll dive into her philosophy of using conversation and relationship-building as tools for growth, how mindset and behavior are key to scaling businesses, and the crucial role of mentors in one's journey to success.Join us as Shani uncovers her secrets to achieving that elusive seven-figure revenue and learn how you can implement her techniques in your own business endeavours. Key topicsShani’s business journey and evolution Transition from content creation to a focus on coaching. Initially starting with minimalist goals that led to unexpected success. Development from a focus on her personal needs to broader business coaching. Reflection on how her services and business model have evolved over time. Mindset and daily habits for success Importance of starting the day with business priorities. Shani’s disciplined approach to balancing health, business, and personal life. The concept of anchoring actions to navigate fleeting emotions. Prioritizing business tasks over leisure to maintain momentum and growth. Role of mentorship in business growth The impact of mentors who have achieved desired outcomes on her success. Distinction between free mentorship and investing in quality guidance. The importance of surrounding oneself with mentors who tell the hard truths. Emphasis on the value of paid programs and serious coaching for true growth. Leadership and resilience The significance of self-leadership before influencing others. Understanding the necessity of compartmentalization in effective leadership. Coping with the daily emotional fluctuations of business through designated reflection time. Building resilience to withstand the challenges and criticism that come with entrepreneurship. Timestamped overview00:00 "Empowering Solopreneurs with Sharni Taylor"05:01 "Exceptional Intrapreneurial Dedication"10:11 "Authentic Coaching: Practicing What You Preach"13:27 Building Resilience for Business Growth15:36 "Start Your Day with Priority"19:53 "McMentorship vs. Quality Mentorship"21:53 "Prioritizing Business: A Daily Ritual"27:00 "Compartmentalizing Emotions in Leadership"28:33 "Emotional Management with Timers"34:00 Symbolic $100 Business Gesture  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Todd Polke, is an investor, entrepreneur, and international educator in wealth creation. With over two decades of experience assisting thousands in mastering their finances, Todd is here to share insights from his new book, "Escape the Middle." This episode promises to equip you with strategies to tackle financial stagnation and construct a future tailored to your financial goals. Whether you're just beginning your financial journey or looking to elevate your wealth, Todd's expertise will motivate you towards achieving economic independence. Don't miss this conversation filled with practical steps to help you take charge of your money and transform your financial future.Key topicsFoundational Principles of Wealth Creation Recognition that traditional approaches to money management may lead to burnout and stagnation. Emphasis on the importance of changing financial rules to achieve sustainable growth. Understanding that value creation, rather than time-for-money exchanges, paves the way for financial freedom. Business and Personal Wealth Integration Importance of treating personal finance like a business with clear strategies and systems. Leveraging business profits to build personal wealth outside of the business itself. Creating a "Finance Farm" to allocate funds into purpose-driven accounts for future wealth. Developing a Wealth-Oriented Mindset Necessity of mindset shifts to break traditional financial beliefs and adopt millionaire habits. Overcoming self-limiting beliefs by stepping out of comfort zones and learning continuously. Instituting habits like micro-investing and "Money Night" to regularly manage and grow wealth. Practical Financial Strategies for Solopreneurs Automating financial processes with technology to ensure consistent wealth-building actions. Viewing wealth creation as attainable and normalizing it as part of everyday life. Adapting strategies based on individual life stages, affirming it's never too late to start. Timestamped overview00:00 "Financial Freedom with Todd Polke"04:54 Success Requires a System07:15 Prioritize Personal Wealth Now11:07 "Building Financial Foundations"14:45 Automate Financial Goals Setup19:52 "Adopting Millionaire Habits"22:39 "Weekly Wealth Hour"26:27 Micro Investing for Wealth Creation30:20 Invest Equity, Not Just Pay Mortgage32:13 Rethink Mortgage Payoff Strategies37:03 The Nature of Comfort Zones40:58 "Escape the Middle" Availability Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emma Lagerlow, a wealth and mindset coach, entrepreneur, and author of Worthy and Wealthy. In this episode of Flying Solo, Emma shares her journey and insights on building a life of abundance by aligning self-worth, purpose, well-being, and time.Listeners can expect to learn about the five pillars Emma believes make up a truly wealthy life, how self-worth influences financial empowerment, and why aligning your purpose with your work or passions is key to true wealth. Emma also delves into the importance of being money mindful, breaking free from scarcity mindsets, and finding harmony between personal growth and financial success. Whether you're a solopreneur struggling to balance time and business or someone seeking financial freedom, this episode promises valuable takeaways on living a rich life on your own terms. Sit back, relax, and get ready to rethink your approach to wealth!Key points1.Redefining Wealth Wealth goes beyond financial accumulation to include self-worth, purpose, well-being, and freedom. Emma's shift from a corporate career to focusing on holistic wealth reflected in her book "Worthy and Wealthy." Importance of feeling abundant and fulfilled in the present, not just in financial security. 2. Mindset and Empowerment Self-worth significantly impacts financial empowerment and decision-making. Overcoming the scarcity mindset involves awareness and intentional financial behavior. Tools like journaling and affirmations can help shift money beliefs and improve financial mindset. 3. Purpose and Personal Growth Aligning personal purpose with business goals enhances fulfillment and success. Financial freedom should incorporate well-being and purposeful living, not just accumulation. Time management and prioritizing personal well-being support a harmonious balance between work and life. 4. Practical Application and Teaching Open discussions and practical exercises like chores help teach kids financial principles. Emma emphasizes the importance of transparency in financial discussions with family. Applying wealth principles requires continuous reflection and adjustment to align with life changes. Timestamped overview00:00 Redefining Wealth Through Life Experience05:35 "Balancing Self-Care, Money, and Time"09:01 "Money Mindset Awareness & Action"10:20 Money Mindfulness and Beliefs15:41 Defining Financial Freedom17:56 Time Management for Business Owners21:33 "Redefining Wealth Beyond Material Success"25:05 Align Life with True Purpose27:00 "Reframing Wealth with Emma" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the episode, we're joined by the incredible Ingrid Maynard, a renowned sales performance expert and founder of The Sales Doctor. Ingrid is here to revolutionise the way you think about selling!We'lll dive into Ingrid's game-changing approach that turns your entire business into a sales engine without the usual pressure. Ingrid shares why simply being customer-centric isn't enough anymore and how you can build value at every touch point in your business. We'll hear about Ingrid's journey from a shy, introverted teenager at The Body Shop to becoming a national sales manager and author of "The Sales Revolution."Key TopicsSales Strategy and Methodology Introduction of "Culture of Customer" concept to frame sales differently. Components: Customer consciousness—treating everyone as a customer—and commercial competence. Focus on value delivery through financial, functional, and emotional benefits. Shifts from traditional selling to value-based conversations to enhance customer relationships. Overcoming Sales Challenges Suggested higher activity levels and engagement to drive sales pipeline. Emphasized the importance of relationship building and trust as the foundation of sales. Identifying and leveraging opportunities with existing and past customers first. Creating structured, outcome-driven conversations to better connect with clients. Practical Sales Tips for Solopreneurs Encouragement to step out from behind the screen and engage face-to-face. Increasing frequency and quality of interactions to nurture the ecosystem. Understanding competitors not to fixate on them but to better position one’s offerings. Exploring different channels where customers are active, like social networks or business networks. These topics offer a comprehensive view of the strategies and advice discussed in the episode.Timestamped overview:00:00 "Shy Teen's Sales Transformation"03:54 "Transformative Journey into Service-Oriented Selling"09:45 Mastering the Art of Business Offers12:55 "Understanding Real Sales Value"14:13 "Understanding Value in Sales"18:20 "Customer Consciousness & Commercial Competence"21:53 Transforming Sales Through Genuine Help26:58 Engaging Multiple Decision Makers28:12 "Understanding Presence and Competition"33:11 Optimizing Revenue with Certainty35:08 Embrace In-Person Meetings Again Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Melissa Browne, an award-winning former accountant and financial advisor who has built three seven-figure businesses in different industries. In this episode of Flying Solo Melissa shares her journey from an accidental business owner to a strategic entrepreneur, She discusses why now is the perfect time to start a business and offers practical insights for soloists and small business owners on managing finances, pricing strategies, and creating successful business structures. Whether you're dreaming of a side hustle or aiming to scale your enterprise, Melissa's advice will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the challenges of modern entrepreneurship. Tune in to gain valuable tips that could transform your business approach and boost your success.Key topicsChallenges in running a profitable business The Internet has made it cheaper and easier to start a business, but profitability remains a challenge. Market dynamics have shifted with increased global competition and cautious consumer spending habits. Business success requires more than just talent in one's field; it demands strong business skills and strategic planning. Common mistakes and strategies for new business owners Mistake: Assuming everyone is a potential customer instead of targeting a specific niche. The need to have a well-defined marketing strategy that goes beyond just acquiring new customers and includes retention plans. Importance of pricing strategies that take into account customer psychology and competitors' pricing. Understanding and tracking business numbers Significant metrics to track from the start include conversion rates, retention rates, and cash flow. Importance of accounting practices: Using business bank accounts, paying oneself a regular amount, and keeping track of tax obligations. Making decisions based on a combination of data insights and business intuition to stay agile and adaptable. Pricing Ssrategies Determining value-based pricing by understanding market needs and what customers are willing to pay. Implementing pricing psychology techniques, such as charm pricing and decoy pricing, to influence customer perception. Regularly reviewing and potentially adjusting pricing structures and packages to maintain competitiveness and profitability. Timestamped overview00:00 Intro to Melissa05:45 Targeted Marketing & Customer Retention09:47 "Essential Business Numbers to Track"12:06 New Business Success Metrics Focus16:33 Shrinkflation and Pricing Strategies18:13 Decoy Pricing Strategy Explained21:36 Sole Trader Business Setup Guide24:22 "Consult Accountant Before Starting Business"29:16 "Understanding Numbers Boosts Business Success" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, we're joined by David Fastuca, co-author of the B2B Sales Playbook. David, who has successfully built a $150 million sales pipeline and scaled a SaaS business in a competitive market, shares his expertise on developing a simple, repeatable sales system that stands out from the pushy tactics many dread. We'll explore key aspects like the impact of AI on sales, the importance of having a structured sales operating system, and actionable insights for overcoming common sales challenges. Whether you're struggling to land deals or looking to refine your sales approach, this episode is a must-listen for actionable strategies and practical advice. Tune in and transform your sales game today!Key TopicsDavid Fastuca's Sales Journey and B2B Sales Playbook: Transitioned from graphic design to sales out of necessity. Co-authored the B2B Sales Playbook with Luigi Preston. The book is designed to be highly actionable and helps founders and salespeople establish a structured sales process. Provides templates, scripts, and resources to resolve sales roadblocks and enhance sales efficiency. Sales Operating System (Sales OS) and Multichannel Outbound Approach: A structured system is crucial for habit-forming and consistent sales results. Employs multichannel outreach, including email, phone, social selling, and instant messaging. Increases response rates and nurtures leads by diversifying communication methods. Helps in building confidence and understanding real market feedback for growth and refinement. Timestamped overview00:00 Intro to Dave05:24 Embrace AI or Fall Behind06:44 AI Enhances Customer Engagement Efficiency10:22 Human Oversight Required for AI14:26 "Belief, Market Need, Feedback Loop"18:36 Turning Cold Calls Into Warm Leads20:47 Strategic Prospect Engagement Steps22:55 Continuous Customer Understanding Essential29:00 Personalized Messaging Over Generic Outreach32:25 AI Analysis for Sales Insights33:25 "B2B Sales Playbook Preview" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Flying Solo, we dive into the inspiring journey of Irene Tsang, a trailblazer for female entrepreneurship in Australia. After a successful corporate career in Asia, Irene made a bold leap to establish LiftWomen, Australia's pioneering platform dedicated to empowering and funding female entrepreneurs. Motivated by her own experiences of gender bias in the corporate sector, she is now at the forefront of closing the gender funding gap, providing women with access to the capital, mentorship, and community support needed to transform their ideas into thriving businesses. Join us as she shares how her personal experiences and challenges inspired her to uplift women entrepreneurs through her innovative platform. Key topicsIrene Tsang's background and motivation Transitioned from a successful corporate career in Asia to entrepreneurship in Australia. Moved to Australia for better opportunities for her children following personal challenges. Inspired by experiences of gender bias and challenges faced by female entrepreneurs. Creation and Vision for LiftWomen Established Australia's first platform dedicated to funding women entrepreneurs. Aims to close the gender funding gap by providing capital, mentorship, and community support. Committed to creating a space where women's ventures are valued and supported. Challenges and strategies in building LiftWomen Faced hurdles in educating the market about crowdfunding in Australia and Asia. Utilized marketing incentives such as grants and partnerships to build initial traction. Leveraged community support and role models to empower and connect women entrepreneurs. Funding and Entrepreneurship for Women Addresses barriers such as traditional biases and lack of confidence among female founders. Advocates for diverse funding pathways, emphasizing non-traditional methods like crowdfunding. Supports business literacy and scalable business models for sustainable growth. Future Goals and Global Expansion Plans to expand support and community building to Asia and beyond. Focus on creating international connections and mentorship for women entrepreneurs. Aspires to empower women globally to pursue impactful ventures and build sustainable businesses. Timestamped overview00:00 Empowering Female Entrepreneurs in Business06:04 Empowering Women through Fintech09:44 Gratitude and Giving Back13:02 Gender Biases in Global Entrepreneurship17:01 Crowdfunding Platform for Women Entrepreneurs19:06 Crowdfunding Education Challenges21:59 Corporate Experience Fuels Entrepreneurial Success26:42 Empowering Women Through Mentorship28:03 Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Globally33:57 "Validate Through Community Engagement"37:44 Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Globally39:57 "Leave a Podcast Review" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lisa Jones is a dynamic force in the world of entrepreneurship. The founder of several successful brands, Lisa shares her journey from corporate roles to building multimillion-dollar businesses, including the inspiring backstory of her eco-friendly nappy brand, Ecoriginals and the origins of her latest venture She-com. Lisa discusses the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs, from funding and financial literacy to the societal pressures of balancing work and family. Lisa offers rich insights into building a thriving community, staying resilient, and the importance of finding your tribe. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that's sure to inspire and empower.Key TopicsLisa Jones' Entrepreneurial Journey Background in corporate roles. Inspiration for entrepreneurship sparked by meeting ex-husband. Transition from corporate to self-employment. Early Business Ventures Catalyst for leaving corporate: the opportunity with Solar Heart. Serendipitous business moments and intuition. Challenges of working with a partner and domestic violence. Personal Learnings from Adversity Impact of an abusive relationship on personal growth. Silver linings: humility and empathy. Importance of a positive mindset and resilience in business. Building and Scaling Businesses Management and project leads as key strengths. The story of launching Eco Originals. Importance of pre-sales and customer engagement. SheCom's Role and Community Mission to support female founders. Insights from recent surveys on female entrepreneurship challenges. Significance of mental health, burnout, and gender expectations. Strategies for Business Success Importance of optimism and adaptability. Emphasis on community building and validation. Funding challenges for female entrepreneurs and financial literacy. Pathway for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Steps to get involved with Sheecom: coaching calls, courses, and community groups. Importance of finding the right support network and guidance. Time-stamped overview00:00 Corporate transition04:47 Form domestic violence survivor to Fast 30 founder09:15 Developing an eco brand 12:51 Affordable Eco Nappies Initiative17:54 Shecom's Female Founders Survey Results21:08 Scaling hints: simplify to scale successfully25:37 Shecom: Empowering women with proven insights"28:31 Finding and solving customer pain points"33:46 Self-Employment roller coaster" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With a background rooted in a family skincare business, Olivia Jenkins brings over a decade of experience in navigating the ups and downs of the industry. From mastering the art of tenacity to juggling a career, pregnancy, and education, Olivia's journey is one of resilience and determination. She joins us on Flying Solo to share her top learnings from the world of e-commerce, brand strategy, and the power of platforms like TikTok to boost sales.Key topics:E-commerce Strategy and Marketing:- The significant growth of e-commerce during the pandemic.- Advice for small businesses to embrace e-commerce.- Importance of an online strategy for established businesses.Growth Activities and Brand Exposure:- The necessity for businesses to focus 80-90% of their time on growth activities.- Social media, email marketing, and collaborations for brand exposure.- Maximizing effort and exposure through brand partnerships.Audience Engagement and Promotion:- Crucial role of list building through email and SMS marketing.- Recommendations for participating in sales events such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday.- Exercising caution to avoid eroding brand equity through continuous discounting.Customer Loyalty and Brand Authenticity:- Techniques for nurturing customer loyalty through authentic and personal communication.- Importance of staying close to the customer and nurturing VIP customers.- Building authenticity by communicating brand values and focusing on unique identity.TikTok Platform and Content Strategy:- Significance of TikTok as a platform with high engagement in health, beauty, fashion, and lifestyle industries.- Recommendations for quality content creation on TikTok, with an emphasis on posting frequency and music as an important element.- Utilisation of TikTok's touch points and impressions for business presence.Time stamped overview:00:00 Key lessons from business journey and investors.03:22 Childhood skincare brand dream, family business experience.07:02 Transitioned from product to business consulting services.10:39 Early focus on growth activities to gain exposure.15:19 Inbox overload during retail events requires diversification.18:00 Stay close to customers, focus on authenticity.20:36 Understand yourself, communicate clearly, and avoid comparison.24:45 Focus on TikTok, analyze posts, replicate successful content.28:45 Encourages business plans for startup success.29:54 Discipline and planning are crucial for success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jaqui Scammell is the CEO of ServiceQ and an expert with over 35 years of experience in customer service. On this week's episode of Flying Solo, Jaqui shares her journey from working at McDonald's to leading major stadium events, to ultimately founding ServiceQ with a mission to redefine service.Jaqui unpacks the impact of the pandemic on customer service, the essential elements of leadership, the human touchpoints and emotional elements of service, and the future of customer service in the face of advancing technology - Jaqui has coined this as 5D service. Are you ready to elevate your customer interactions?Key points:Customer Service Challenges and Pandemic Impact- Amplified stress and pressure on people affecting customer service- Staff shortages and fear magnified existing service issues- Importance of crisis response preparation and running real scenarios in leadership programsBuilding Brand Reputation and Customer Loyalty- The significance of trustworthiness and delivering value to stand out in customer service- Trust issues affecting brand reputation globally- Loyalty as a valuable currency and the impact of consistent demonstration of trustworthiness5D Service Principles for Business Improvement- Actioning the 5D service principles from Jacqui Scammell's book without delay- Guidance from the book for further support in overcoming challenges- Empowerment, confidence, and emotional intelligence in the workplacePredicted Changes in Customer Service and "5D Service" Framework- Increasing expectations, demand, and competitiveness with technology- The significance of human touch points despite the prevalence of AI and automation- Practical tips for delivering exemplary service and the importance of psychological safety and well-being in the workplace from "The Future of Service is 5D"Timestamped overview00:00 McDonald's 'school of business'03:49 A service mindset leads to personal growth and gratitude.06:47 How to break down big projects into manageable chunks.11:41 Balancing technology and human connection in business.13:33 The multidimensional human connections in the workplace.17:38 Leaders must empower and serve employees.22:31 Practical ways to build mental agility.25:19 Increased competitiveness, demand, and human preparedness.27:04 Leadership programs include running real scenarios to improve decision-making, resilience, and cohesion for handling crises.30:38 "Start yesterday. Buy the book." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices