Owner To Owner Podcast

Brenton Johnson, founder of Australian managed service provider Uptake Digital, champions people-first technology for SMEs. He shares his journey from fixing computers for beer to building a purpose-driven, owner-independent business. The conversation explores culture as a balance-sheet asset, psychological safety, AI’s missing middle, resilient systems, MSP consolidation, and making entrepreneurship less risky.

Overcoming Small Business Burnout: Why You Need Simpler Systems, Not More TechWelcome to another episode of the Owner to Owner Podcast. If you’ve ever wondered how to reduce small business burnout, the answer often starts with simplifying your small business tech stack. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the endless apps, subscriptions, and communication channels required to run your business today? You aren't alone.In this episode, Michael sits down with Elise Balsillie, Head of Thryv ANZ, to unpack why modern technology often adds complexity instead of freedom for small business owners. They explore the best systems for service based businesses and dive deep into the burnout epidemic. You'll learn exactly how to build a business that runs without you, which is the ultimate key to reducing owner dependency for business sale and preserving your day-to-day sanity.Whether you want to learn about using AI for small business marketing, improving local visibility for contractors, or leveraging Thryv for small business growth, this conversation covers the practical steps to get your time back.In this episode, you’ll discover:The Burnout Reality: Why Thryv’s recent research shows 45% of Australian small business owners have considered stepping away due to workload pressure.The "Mishmash" Tech Stack: Why stringing together too many isolated tools creates process gaps rather than fixing your core problems.The 3 a.m. Rule: How to stop trying to fix everything at once and focus strictly on the one issue keeping you awake at night.Real-World Success: How Booth Contracting saved 10 hours a week and scaled from a single van to a national operation using better local SEO and lead generation.Building for the Future: Actionable ways to reduce owner dependency to boost both your current profit and your eventual exit valuation.Practical AI Adoption: How to take practical, baby steps into AI to save time on everyday tasks without feeling overwhelmed.Episode Chapters:00:00 – The modern small business trap: Why tech promises freedom but delivers pressure05:22 – The "mishmash" tech stack and how to solve your 3 a.m. problem09:06 – How Thryv helps service businesses grow (featuring the Booth Contracting case study)18:37 – Surprising data from the Thryv Business Index: Burnout, rising costs, and wearing too many hats25:29 – Reducing owner dependency to improve saleability and transition out of the day-to-day30:22 – Building AI-powered marketing systems that outlast the owner38:24 – The future of online discovery and how AI is changing local search43:30 – Elise’s final advice for overwhelmed owners and how to take the first step  Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.auwww.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

In this episode of the Owner to Owner Podcast, Michael sits down with Bill Lang—Chair of Small Business Australia, Co-chair of Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs for Oceania, and a seasoned business founder and advisor. They dive deep into the rising trend of "entrepreneurship through acquisition," exploring why buying an established business is becoming an increasingly popular and less risky alternative to the traditional startup model. Bill shares fascinating insights from his recent Harvard Business School reunion, highlighting the explosive impact of AI on the "solopreneur" movement and how technology is fundamentally lowering the barriers to entry for new business owners. Beyond trends, Bill delivers practical, hard-earned wisdom for current SME owners. From the critical importance of documenting your business processes and preparing for unexpected succession, to managing cash flow and learning from Other People's Mistakes (OPM), this episode is packed with actionable advice for building and sustaining a successful business. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition: Why buying an existing business is often a smarter, lower-risk strategy than building a startup from scratch. The AI Revolution: How artificial intelligence is empowering a new generation of "solopreneurs" to launch fully functional businesses in minutes. Succession Planning: Why documenting your business processes is vital for attracting buyers and protecting your family in case of unexpected life events. Regional Business Hubs: The essential role of Australia Post Licensed Post Offices (LPOs) in supporting regional and rural small business economies. Surviving the Journey: Bill’s golden rules for small business survival, including why "cash is king" and the immense value of learning from other people's failures. Policy Reform: Bill's vision for a simplified employment structure and tax incentives to fuel a small business revolution in Australia. Chapters: 01:20 The Evolution of Entrepreneurship 06:24 Changing Perspectives on Business Ownership 11:34 The Rise of Solopreneurs and AI 16:29 Navigating the Landscape of Business Acquisition 21:36 Preparing for the Unexpected in Business 26:36 Lessons from Past Acquisitions 26:58 The Impact of Capital on Startups 30:04 Navigating Tax Changes and Business Opportunities 32:02 The Future of AI in Business 34:54 Leveraging AI for Small Business Growth 38:43 Aussie Post's Role in Supporting Small Businesses 42:23 Lessons from a Small Business Journey 46:52 The Need for Practical Experience in Politics   #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessAcquisition #Solopreneur #SmallBusinessAustralia #BusinessAdvice #AIforBusiness #SuccessionPlanning #BusinessStrategy #PodcastSEO Small Business Australia: Connect with Bill Lang and find resources to support your business journey at smallbusinessaustralia.org. Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.auwww.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

Why every business owner needs to build authority. Michael sits down with Trevor Young—PR and communications advisor, coach, mentor, writer, author, and podcast host—to unpack why building authority is a strategic business asset for SME owners. They discuss how founders can build credibility, visibility, and trust without falling into noisy self-promotion. The conversation also gets practical about content, earned media, owned media, and how all of this affects growth, reputation, and even business saleability. In this episode: The real job of PR: Trevor reframes PR as building a deeper connection, trust, and reputation with the people who matter most to a business, rather than just chasing press hits. Why good owners stay invisible: A look at tall poppy syndrome, analogue mindsets, the fear of bragging, and the discomfort many owners feel about putting themselves out there. Content-led communications: Trevor breaks content down into four distinct buckets: Utility content Thought leadership content Personal content Brand content Why owned media matters: The case for email newsletters, websites, podcasts, and other channels you control, rather than relying solely on platforms that can change their rules overnight. Pick fewer channels and do them well: Why you shouldn't try to be everywhere, and how to build a strong base on just one or two channels (usually LinkedIn plus an owned channel). Matching format to founder: How video, writing, and audio all have a role, and why the best format depends on the founder’s strengths, the audience, and the business model. Thought leadership > generic utility: While answering common questions is useful, the stronger opportunity is to express a point of view and challenge the status quo. Trust takes repetition: Why people often need to see you 7 to 12 times before they factor you into their thinking. Authority helps sales and exits: How personal brand, business brand, and strategic communications affect acquisition, talent attraction, and the ability to build a business that can run without the founder. Timestamps 00:00 - Why business owners need to build authority 00:58 - Trevor’s background in journalism and PR   02:12 - Why he works with credible founders and experts   05:31 - Tall poppy syndrome and the fear of visibility   07:25 - Why content paralysis happens in a noisy media landscape   09:24 - Why owners already know they need to act   11:45 - Content-led communications across owned, earned, and paid media   13:27 - PR versus marketing and why the distinction matters   16:22 - Choosing the right content format: writing, video, audio, visual   17:42 - A property company’s 350 video and live stream playbook   19:10 - Why owned media beats platform dependence   21:14 - Personal brand websites, books, and digital ownership   22:52 - The reality of omnipresence and big creator teams   24:42 - Why most business owners should focus on fewer channels   27:05 - Utility content versus thought leadership   28:30 - Why a contrarian point of view can matter more than FAQs   31:27 - How repeated exposure and personal stories build trust   34:19 - The four content buckets, including brand content   35:22 - The 80/20 rule for promotion versus value   39:42 - Why newsletters still matter, even if they are simple or curated   41:20 - Why YouTube is a major opportunity for business owners   42:42 - Building a show instead of random videos   45:57 - Beehiiv and newsletters as business assets   49:49 - Why human stories beat AI and how earned media helps discovery   51:34 - How AI tools use earned media and websites to verify people   55:38 - Why companies should make internal people into stars   57:06 - Michael Hyatt’s move from personal brand to business brand   62:49 - Using back channels and case studies to support sale readiness   64:42 - Creating heat around a brand through visibility and speaking   67:19 - Talent attraction, retention, and employer brand   68:42 - Adam Robinson’s LinkedIn growth and startup content strategy   71:41 - What Trevor would do if asked to lead small business policy   74:09 - Where to find Trevor’s website and newsletter       Notable quotes “We want to hear from the genuine people who have got something to offer.” “If you just do rollout paid ads and you have nothing underneath to back it up, you're gonna have to put your hand in your pocket for a lot longer.” “If you want to grow quickly from a low base, it's all personal brand. If you want to build to sell, it's the business brand first.” Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.auwww.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

What does it take to build a thriving independent brewery in the shadow of multinational giants?  In this episode, Peta Fielding, co-founder of Burleigh Brewing, takes us behind the scenes of her nearly 20-year journey crafting one of Australia's most beloved indie beer brands. From buying a brewery out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy to mastering long-term strategy and fostering deep brand loyalty, Peta shares the highs, lows, and crucial decisions that fueled their growth.  Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with practical insights on passion, resilience, and scaling up while staying true to your community values. Key Topics & Takeaways: Building and sustaining an independent craft brewery in Australia Navigating early hurdles, including acquiring a bankrupt business Competing against multinational beverage giants The power of venue dynamics, brand loyalty, and community engagement Strategic growth, funding, and leadership for the long haul Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Peta Fielding & Burleigh Brewing 02:27 – The Origins: From Hawaii MBA to Burleigh Heads 05:55 – Buying a Brewery Out of Chapter 11 Bankruptcy 07:36 – Building a Business with Values & Community Focus 12:38 – Scaling Up: From Small Units to a Production Brewery 18:16 – Funding, Investors, & Business Growth 25:49 – Current Capacity & Future Expansion 37:27 – Venue Role & Community Engagement 43:44 – Industry Challenges & Multinationals in Australia 54:22 – Leadership, Succession, & Long-Term Vision 1:07:38 – Future Outlook & Maintaining Independence Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.auwww.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

Andrew Clements, Co-Chair of Employee Ownership Australia and small-business succession advocate, explains selling to your team through EOTs. He compares allocated share plans with unallocated trusts. He highlights international lessons, regulatory and tax hurdles in Australia. He outlines which firms fit employee ownership and practical steps for founders planning an exit.

Monica O’Malley, a dentist and founder who converted her clinics into employee-owned practices to build trust and purpose. She talks about shifting from top-down control to shared agency. Topics include rebuilding trust in dentistry, practical steps for cultural change, financial transparency, succession for lasting legacy, and how ownership boosts resilience and workplace motivation.

Building a Purpose-Driven Business as a Mumpreneur with Marie Carillon In this episode, Marie Carillon, founder and podcast host of the Business Mum Compass, shares her insights into how mothers can create impactful, flexible businesses that align with their lifestyle and values. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, personal branding, and clear definitions of success, especially in the evolving online economy. Key insights include: How Marie transitioned from broad entrepreneurship content to focusing on mumpreneurs upon realizing their unique needs. The significance of personal branding for online success and the role of authenticity in building trust. Strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and mindset blocks, especially for mothers balancing family and business. The importance of defining success on your own terms and regularly revisiting your goals. How online businesses offer greater flexibility, making it easier to balance motherhood and entrepreneurship. The necessity of showing up consistently online, even when results aren’t immediate. Reflection on the journey of entrepreneurship, learning from failures, and the value of persistence. The influence of AI and digital tools in scaling small businesses and personal branding. The ongoing need for support systems and accessible education for mumpreneurs, including affordable childcare and mental health resources. Practical steps for aspiring mompreneurs to start their journey with confidence and authenticity. Chapters: Introduction to Marie Carillon : Her work at the intersection of motherhood and entrepreneurship Transition to Mumpreneurs : From general entrepreneurship to a niche focus Mindset Challenges : Overcoming imposter syndrome Aligning Business with Motherhood : Balancing goals and realities Coaching and Confidence : Overcoming mindset blocks Personal Branding : Key to online success AI and Digital Tools : Impact on business scaling Authenticity Online : Building trust and relatability Engaging Content Creation : Tips for founders Offline vs. Online Branding : Current landscape Evolving Business with Family Needs : Defining success Purpose and Passion : Sustaining motivation Trial and Error in Entrepreneurship : Learning from failures Avoiding Burnout : Setting realistic expectations Online Business Models : Flexibility and growth Aligning Business with Passions : Core values Marie’s Entrepreneurial Journey : Lessons learned Misinformation about Success : Importance of authenticity Persistence and Results : Long-term success Podcast Evolution : Focus on mumpreneurs Embracing Change : Overcoming fear of pivoting External Opinions and Resilience : Influences on business Supporting Mums in Business : Education and childcare Societal Role of Mums : Through entrepreneurship Success Factors for Small Business : Consistent effort and support Future of AI in Branding : Growth opportunities Integrating Business Education : Practical advice Resources & Links: The Business Mum Compass Podcast Marie Carillon - LinkedIn Marie Carillon - Instagram Business Mum Loveable Website Connect with Marie: LinkedIn Instagram Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.auwww.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

Most rural communities are facing a critical crossroads: how to preserve essential local businesses when traditional ownership models are failing. What if communities could take ownership themselves—reclaiming their future one business at a time? Matt Pfahlert founder of Community Owned Australia, explains how regional communities can take a step towards buying and operating the assets they can't afford to lose.  Drawing on successful models from Australia and overseas, Matt shares practical lessons on community ownership, social enterprise, governance, funding and long-term sustainability. This conversation explores what happens when ownership transition fail, how communities can identify opportunities worth saving, and why entrepreneurial thinking remains essential even when profit isn't the only objective. If you're interested in business ownership, succession, regional development or the future of rural Australia, this episode offers a fresh perspective on keeping communities alive and thriving. Key Topics The role of community ownership in preventing the closure of essential local businesses The powerful concept of "recombinant innovation"—bringing proven strategies from overseas and adapting them to local contexts. How rural communities can leverage local networks to acquire assets The importance of entrepreneurial mindset and operational discipline in community-run businesses Examples of related models from overseas Practical steps for communities to start their ownership journey using the Community Owned Australia framework The significance of long-term planning, succession, and shared services to sustain rural businesses Policy insights for government support, including easing regulations around superannuation and incentivizing rural investment Timestamps 00:00 - Introducing the importance of community ownership in rural Australia 01:11 - The risk of losing key community assets and the concept of community buyback 01:55 - Matt’s background growing up in rural communities and early entrepreneurial ventures 04:19 - Lessons from youth entrepreneurship and trading in small towns 05:30 - Moments that highlighted the need for alternative ownership models 07:45 - How overseas models inspire Australian solutions 09:44 - What  Recombinant Innovation  means for community-led ventures 11:30 - The principles and scope of  Community Owned Australia 12:09 - Diagnosing community needs and supporting local enterprise creation 14:02 - Building feasible business models with technical support and grants 15:20 - The importance of community governance, local investment, and co-ownership 17:23 - How to leverage external networks and mentorship for rural projects 20:05 - Changing community perceptions and motivation for local ownership 21:28 - The impact of local small businesses on retaining population and improving local appeal 22:39 - Identifying the types of businesses suited for community ownership 23:57 - Stages of community readiness and initial steps for engagement 26:11 - Role of entrepreneurial discipline and operational excellence in community ventures 28:00 - The significance of professional management and governance roles 29:32 - Innovative ideas like renewable energy projects to boost local economies 32:48 - Strategic planning, business succession, and understanding local business ecosystems 35:53 - Financing, valuation, and overcoming bank reluctance in rural asset ownership 38:04 - Engaging local champions—women, community leaders, and long-term residents 39:21 - The shifting mindset: from curiosity to motivation for rural community ownership 43:39 - Examples of successful buy-backs and their long-term asset value 44:40 - How communities can initiate with minimal risk through expressions of interest 47:21 - Hypothetical: What Matt would do as Australia's small business minister 48:48 - Final thoughts and how to get involved with Community Owned Australia   You can register your interest here  Community Owned Australia Other resources & Links Development Trust Association of Scotland Plunkett UK Kerr Capital   Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.auwww.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

Most business owners dramatically underestimate what it takes to sell successfully—until it's finally too late.  @Tony Brown founder of @DMA is a seasoned expert in Australia's mid-market transactions. We talk about hidden pitfalls that lead to owners leaving money on the table, and the critical steps in preparing your business two years before selling.  We break down how owner dependence, cultural fit, and timing can make or break your sale.  And, you'll learn about why cleaning up your balance sheet, structuring flexible exit options, and keeping key staff informed is so important. The episode is very timely for an owner on the cusp of selling. In this episode: The common surprises owners face in the sale process Why understanding your business's true value is crucial early on The differences between small and mid-market sales—what you need to know How strategic buyers think and what influences their offers The importance of owner readiness and timing (two years out, ideally) How to make your business more attractive and less risky for buyers Owner dependence and succession planning secrets The critical role of info memoranda, data rooms, and due diligence Protecting your legacy, staff, and your own peace of mind Practical tips for entrepreneurs aiming for a smooth, profitable exit   Timestamps: 00:00 - Why most owners leave money on the table in a business sale 02:10 - The importance of viewing your business from an outsider's perspective 04:23 - How due diligence can turn your business upside down 05:25 - Defining the mid-market: what most Australian businesses look like 07:11 - Why a business is more like a virtual walkthrough than a house 09:42 - The crucial difference owner-operator mindset vs. strategic buyers 12:19 - The sweet spot: industry focus and the role of strategic vs. financial buyers 14:43 - How owner emotional ties influence negotiation and sale strategy 16:34 - The significance of cultural and strategic fit over price alone 18:55 - How foreign acquirers and local sellers can align interests 20:19 - The importance of owner transition planning 22:53 - Why your business "value" depends on owner involvement and planning ahead 24:54 - The power of structure: minority shareholdings, options, and de-risking deals 26:48 - Transitioning to a project-focused exit and meaningful post-sale work 28:28 - The rise of industry-specific, project-based advisory boards 30:24 - How industry giants buy and what that means for small business owners 33:34 - Protecting your business from over-sharing and maintaining confidentiality 37:07 - The risks of rushing a sale—what owners often screw up 40:34 - Preparing your balance sheet and operations two years prior to sale 43:24 - The common pitfalls when owners get overattached to systems and tech 45:39 - The underrated value of intellectual property and brand assets 48:29 - Envisioning a better small business environment—less regulation, more supportIf you want to walk away with a clear game plan, more confidence, and less risk in your exit strategy—this episode is a must-listen. Tony Brown's insights aren't just theory—they're battle-tested, real-world truths that could maximize your sale and protect your legacy. Resources & Links: Tony Brown's LinkedIn DivestMergeAcquire Connect with Tony: Email: [email protected] @kerrcapital.com.au    Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.auwww.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au