Grow A Small Business Podcast

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Kelly Brown, co-founder and CFO of The Working Party, who shares her journey in building a thriving e-commerce agency with 25 team members. She highlights the critical mindset shift from structured corporate life to the freedom and responsibility o f entrepreneurship. Kelly reveals how aligning team values and fostering open communication have been key to their success. This episode offers valuable insights for small business owners looking to create a strong company culture while navigating growth challenges. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Kelly Brown, the hardest thing in growing a small business is managing the pace of growth. She notes that for fast-growing businesses, it can feel like there's a constant need to work around the clock, which makes it essential to distinguish between what's important and what can wait. This challenge requires a balance of urgency and strategic prioritization to ensure sustainable growth. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Kelly Brown doesn't have a specific favorite business book that has helped her the most. She mentions that her business partner, Cal, has a substantial collection of books and often refers to them for insights. While she appreciates the value of reading and learning, her approach leans more toward seeking knowledge in specific areas as needed rather than following a particular book. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Kelly Brown highly recommends the podcast series that Sam created, particularly the influencer series, which includes insightful episodes featuring various guests, like chefs. She enjoys learning from others' business experiences and strategies. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of tools like Xero and spreadsheets for managing and growing a small business. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Kelly Brown recommends using Xero and spreadsheets as essential tools for growing a small business. Xero is particularly valuable for managing finances and accounting, while spreadsheets are useful for tracking data and analyzing business performance. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Kelly Brown advises that on day one of starting out in business, it's crucial to be steadfast in your confidence. She emphasizes believing in yourself and your abilities, and to simply go for it, recognizing that you have what it takes to succeed. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: In business, embracing the unknown is an opportunity for growth – Kelly Brown Hiring for values rather than just skills creates a cohesive team – Kelly Brown Trust in your journey and have confidence in your abilities – Kelly Brown

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Damien Cantelo, co-founder of Apollo Secure, shares his journey leading an 8-member team while navigating the challenges of a failed GPS deal. He discusses the importance of resilience and strategic cash flow management in protecting small businesses from cyber threats. Damien also emphasizes the value of learning from setbacks and how adaptability is crucial for long-term success. Tune in for insights on fostering a secure business environment and the lessons learned along the way. Other Resources: Discover expert cybersecurity strategies to safeguard your business and achieve peace of mind, featuring insights from Damien Cantelo. Discover how Andrew Miller scaled his solo startup to a $500K annual revenue powerhouse with 7 team members, sharing key strategies for transforming early-stage companies and achieving work-life balance. Andrew Miller. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Damien Cantelo identified that one of the hardest things in growing a small business is listening to customers and ensuring that your product or service aligns with their needs. He mentioned that entrepreneurs often become too attached to their original ideas and may struggle to let go of their initial concepts. Instead, they must be disciplined enough to adapt based on what customers actually want, even if it differs from their original vision. This can be a continuous challenge as business owners navigate their growth journey. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Damien Cantelo highlighted "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries as a significant book that serves as a Bible for tech startups. Additionally, he recommended "Crossing the Chasm" by Geoffrey Moore, which he considers timeless and still relevant today, especially for understanding market dynamics in various business contexts. These books have greatly influenced his approach to business and product development. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Damien Cantelo recommends the "Built to Sell" podcast for valuable insights on building and selling businesses. He also appreciates John Warrillow's podcast, which complements his books, along with April Dunford's resources on marketing and positioning for effective business differentiation. Additionally, he suggests exploring cybersecurity podcasts for niche industry insights. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Damien Cantelo recommends cash flow forecasting in Excel as an essential tool for growing a small business, highlighting the importance of understanding cash inflows and outflows. He emphasizes that, despite the availability of various sales and marketing automation tools, effective cash management remains critical for business sustainability. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Damien Cantelo advises that on day one of starting out in business, one should "stick with it" and be prepared for a long and challenging journey. He echoes Winston Churchill's sentiment that if you're going through hell, you should keep going, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in overcoming obstacles. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Listening to your customers is the key to evolving your business – Damien Cantelo Perseverance is essential; if you're going through hell, keep going – Damien Cantelo Don't be afraid to pivot; the market knows what it wants – Damien Cantelo

QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday host Rob Cameron interviews David C Barnett, from Business and Asset Values. David shares key insights on buying, selling, and valuing businesses, drawing from his extensive experience. He discusses how his firm helps entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of mergers and acquisitions with a unique approach that simplifies the process. Discover how David's tailored strategies can help you maximize business growth and make smarter decisions in challenging markets Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Understanding Valuation: Knowing the true value of your business is crucial for both buyers and sellers. Proper valuation involves assessing market trends and financial performance. Identifying Business Characteristics: Potential buyers should clarify the specific characteristics they desire in a business, such as industry type, capital intensity, and service offerings, to make informed decisions. Navigating Market Challenges: In tough economic climates, having a solid strategy for buying or selling can help mitigate risks and enhance profitability. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Importance of Preparation: Sellers need to be well-prepared before entering the market, including understanding realistic pricing and potential financing structures to attract serious buyers. Leveraging Industry Insights: Using industry benchmarks and financial modeling can help business owners identify areas for improvement and optimize their operations. Recognizing Growth Opportunities: Many business owners are unaware of hidden growth potential within their operations, such as adjusting pricing strategies or refining service offerings to enhance profitability. One action small business owners can take: One actionable step small business owners can take, as highlighted by David C Barnett, is to regularly assess and understand their business's valuation. By conducting periodic valuations, owners can identify their company's worth in the current market, recognize areas for improvement, and make informed decisions regarding future growth strategies or potential sales. This proactive approach can enhance financial planning and prepare them for unexpected opportunities or challenges. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Selling a business is not just about listing it; it's about presenting its true value to the right buyer – David C Barnett A business that thrives is built on strong systems, not just the hours of its owner – David C Barnett The key to a successful business sale is preparing not just the numbers, but the narrative of your business journey – David C Barnett

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Hillary Walsh, founder of New Frontier Immigration Law, shares her journey of building a successful immigration law firm with over 115 employees. Emphasizing the power of transparency and core values, she reflects on how significant investments in professional development have driven both personal and business success. Hillary's unique perspective on work-life balance and her commitment to coaching others highlight her mission to help a million people through her services. Other Resources: Ultimate Recruitment Toolkit Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Hillary Walsh believes that the hardest thing in growing a small business is having faith. She emphasizes that while many people want to see results before believing in their vision, true growth requires the ability to create and develop that vision first, which can be challenging without immediate evidence of success. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Hillary Walsh's favorite business book is The One Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan. She finds it particularly helpful because it distills goals down to actionable steps, allowing individuals to focus on what truly needs to be accomplished each day. This approach has significantly aided her in navigating the growth of her business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Hillary Walsh recommends the podcast The Successful Mind by David Nagle as a valuable resource for small business growth. She highlights that it challenges common belief systems, which can greatly impact how businesses are run. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of setting core values for both personal and business development as a foundational tool for success. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Hillary Walsh recommends setting your core values as a crucial tool for growing a small business. She emphasizes that understanding both personal and business core values helps in making hiring and firing decisions, guiding interactions with team members and clients, and maintaining alignment within the organization. This framework allows for clearer communication and decision-making, ensuring that everyone is working towards the same principles. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Hillary Walsh advises her past self on day one of starting her business to "buckle up." She reflects that, at the beginning, she had no idea about the challenges ahead, including the need for personal development and the significant changes that growth would bring. She emphasizes that the journey would transform her into a different person, highlighting the unexpected and rewarding experiences that come with building a business. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Transparency in leadership allows people to choose their own path and creates a culture of accountability – Hillary Walsh Balance isn't about equal time; it's about being present where you are – Hillary Walsh The hardest part of growing a business is having faith and creating the vision before you can see it – Hillary Walsh

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Martin Anderson, founder of Ionata Digital, discusses his journey growing a digital services company with over $2 million in annual revenue. He shares his strategies for work-life balance, the importance of cash flow, and how focusing beyond Tasmania allowed his business to thrive. Martin also emphasizes the value of professional development, including his experience as president of Tas ICT. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Martin Anderson believes the hardest thing in growing a small business is managing cash flow. He emphasizes the importance of putting money aside for tax liabilities and being prepared for the financial demands that arise, especially in the second year, when the tax department might request payments for both the past and the coming year. Without careful planning, cash flow issues can become a significant challenge for business survival. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Martin Anderson's favorite business book is "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries. He appreciates its focus on testing ideas early, iterating, and learning from feedback. The book's concept of the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) resonates with him, as it encourages starting small, listening to your audience, and making improvements based on their responses. This approach aligns well with the agile project management style Martin uses in his business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Martin Anderson recommends Tim Reid's podcast, "Small Business, Big Marketing," as a valuable resource for growing a small business. He finds it packed with great ideas and practical advice, especially for Australian entrepreneurs. Martin appreciates Tim's engaging speaking style and the useful insights provided on marketing strategies for small businesses. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Martin Anderson recommends Xero as an essential tool for growing a small business. He praises it for simplifying financial management and believes that having a solid handle on finances is crucial for success. While he enjoys managing the business finances himself, his mentor suggests delegating this task to focus more on strategic growth. Nonetheless, Martin considers Xero a fantastic product, especially for startups. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? If Martin Anderson could give advice to himself on day one of starting out in business, he would say: "Focus beyond Tasmania from the start." He emphasizes thinking nationally or globally, rather than being geographically limited. Martin believes that by targeting larger markets from the outset, entrepreneurs can tap into a much bigger audience and accelerate their business growth. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Work-life balance is essential; respect your team's time outside of work – Martin Anderson Don't place artificial limits on yourself; the internet connects you to a global market – Martin Anderson Cash flow is the lifeblood of any small business; plan for your tax liabilities – Martin Anderson

In less than 20 minutes a week, we'll introduce you to an expert or business owner with deep experience in what they do. Grow you, grow your team, grow a small business. In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Rob Cameron interviews Celi Arias from Grown Ass Business reveals how her clients have tripled their revenue through a focus on financial clarity and strategic marketing. With a team of five, Celi empowers entrepreneurs to grasp their numbers, enabling them to make informed decisions that lead to global success. She shares actionable insights on prioritizing growth and harnessing data to drive business outcomes. Tune in for inspiring strategies that can transform your entrepreneurial journey! Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Understanding Numbers is Crucial: Mastering financial metrics empowers entrepreneurs to make confident decisions and negotiate effectively. Focus on Growth First: Prioritize growth over immediate profitability to build a strong foundation for long-term success. Simplicity in Strategy: Break down marketing strategies into basic components to avoid overwhelm and ensure clarity in execution. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Commit to One Channel: Concentrating efforts on a single marketing channel can lead to significant visibility and engagement. Awareness of Weaknesses: Acknowledge areas of weakness and be open to learning; this self-awareness is essential for breaking revenue barriers. Actionable Problem-Solving: Regularly assess whether current challenges align with your growth goals to stay focused on what truly matters for your business. One action small business owners can take: One actionable step small business owners can take, as emphasized by Celi Arias, is to regularly evaluate whether the problems they are focusing on align with their growth goals. By asking themselves, "Is this the right problem to focus on right now?" they can ensure their efforts are directed toward initiatives that drive meaningful growth, rather than getting sidetracked by distractions. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Growth happens in a specific order; focus on what truly drives your business forward – Celi Arias Identify the right problems to solve, and you'll unlock your business's true potential – Celi Arias Don't let shiny distractions steer you away from your core growth goals – Celi Arias

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Ka Wai Yeung, co-founder of Kaunitz Yeung Architecture. In this episode Ka Wai discusses the company's impressive growth of 20-25% annually and the integral role her team play in this success. She highlights the importance of aligning team values and maintaining a supportive and respectful culture as she and her husband, David Kaunitz, have expanded their practice. Through Kaunitz Yeung's projects Ka Wai is deeply committed to bridging gaps in society and fostering the continuation of heritage and culture. She shares strategies for successful collaboration and co-design with key stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of projects that act beyond the physicality of architecture, and strive to provide social and economic benefits to the communities she and the team work in. Other Resources: A curated selection of leadership books aimed at enhancing personal growth and decision-making skills. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Ka Wai Yeung believes the hardest thing in growing a small business is maintaining focus and belief during the early stages. As the business expands, the challenge shifts to balancing the need for growth while ensuring the quality of work remains high amidst increased demands and complexities. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Ka Wai Yeung's favourite business books are biographies, particularly those of influential figures like Steve Jobs and Michelle Obama. She finds their stories inspiring and helpful, even if they're not directly related to architecture or her profession. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Ka Wai Yeung recommends listening to podcasts, as well as following Connor Neil, who offers valuable insights on public speaking. Shee finds these resources helpful for professional development and growing her business. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Ka Wai Yeung recommends using Xero for financial management and LinkedIn for networking and business growth. These tools help streamline operations and connect with potential clients and partners. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Ka Wai Yeung would advise herself to "hang in there, you will do great, and don't look back. Just follow your moral compass." This encouragement emphasises resilience and staying true to one's values as key to success in business. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Building a team whose values align with the business is essential for motivation and success – Ka Wai Yeung Finding balance means prioritising self-care and sharing the load with a supportive team – Ka Wai Yeung Follow your moral compass, and don't look back on your entrepreneurial journey – Ka Wai Yeung

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Michael Denehey interviews Rob Miller, founder of SRT Logistics, about his journey from starting a small logistics company to building a $150M business with over 400 team members. Rob shares insights on leadership, the importance of hiring based on attitude, and how he's focused on developing talent from within. He also discusses his approach to finding a balance between work and personal life, as well as the value of external advice and mentorship in growing a successful business. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Michael delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Rob Miller, the hardest thing in growing a small business is finding and retaining motivated talent. He highlights the challenge of sourcing people who are not only skilled but also driven to advance their careers. Developing a strong company culture and investing in employee growth are crucial to overcoming this obstacle. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Rob Miller mentioned that he doesn't have a particular favorite business book. Instead, he relies on industry articles and staying informed about current trends, preferring hands-on learning and experience over formal reading. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Rob Miller emphasized the importance of seeking external advice and understanding your own strengths and weaknesses. While he didn't specifically recommend any podcasts or online learning resources, he stressed that talking to experts and getting help in areas where you lack experience is crucial for business growth. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Rob Miller recommends seeking external advice and understanding your strengths and weaknesses. He emphasizes the value of consulting with experts and getting help in areas where you lack experience, as this approach can significantly contribute to the growth of a small business. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Rob Miller would advise himself on day one of starting out in business to embrace the journey with its challenges and uncertainties. He acknowledges that despite any advice given, the experience itself would be crucial, and he might not have believed it at the time. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Understand every part of your business from the bottom up to lead effectively – Rob Miller Hire for attitude, not just skills; motivated people will drive your success – Rob Miller Know your strengths and weaknesses, and seek advice where you lack expertise – Rob Miller

In less than 20 minutes a week, we'll introduce you to an expert or business owner with deep experience in what they do. Grow you, grow your team, grow a small business. Welcome to Part Two of Benjamin Dennehy's episode on Grow a Small Business.,In this episode host Michael Denehey interviews Benjamin Dennehy, founder of The UK's Most Hated Sales Trainer. Benjamin shares powerful strategies for mastering negotiation and sales, emphasizing the importance of demanding upfront payments and overcoming emotional attachment to your business. He also highlights how to handle company policies and the need for confidence in closing deals. Tune in for practical insights to elevate your sales game and business mindset. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Prioritize Upfront Payment: Benjamin Dennehy stresses the importance of securing payment before starting any work. He believes that this approach prevents unnecessary chasing and demonstrates confidence in your value. Challenge Company Policies: When faced with conflicting policies, like 60-day payment terms versus a 100% upfront policy, Dennehy showcases how sticking to your own policy can lead to better results and establish clear boundaries. Embrace Rejection: Dennehy highlights that rejection is a natural part of sales and emphasizes the importance of not fearing it. He views rejection as a step toward finding quicker yeses. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Detach Emotionally: Successful business owners should detach emotionally from their business. Dennehy advises that treating your business objectively helps in handling difficult prospects and avoids being swayed by personal attachments. Charge for Consultations: Dennehy advises charging for initial consultation calls to filter out less serious prospects and avoid giving away valuable advice for free. Consistent Prospecting: To improve sales outcomes, Dennehy emphasizes the need for consistent prospecting. Meeting a larger number of prospects reduces the pressure on each individual sale and improves overall performance. One action small business owners can take: One actionable tip from Benjamin Dennehy for small business owners is to stop being emotionally attached to their business. Dennehy advises business owners to treat their business as just another entity, not as their personal life. By doing so, they can better handle tough questions from prospects and avoid letting personal feelings impact business decisions. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. 👇 Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Stop acting like you are important, you're just another business – Benjamin Dennehy The moment you get out of your own way, success comes a lot faster – Benjamin Dennehy Stop giving anything away for free; make them pay to talk to you – Benjamin Dennehy

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Esther Rupenovic, founder of Jack & Chelo, a thriving dog food company that has expanded its operations significantly. Esther shares insights on her journey, the importance of professional development, and the tools that have fueled her success. Joined by her dedicated team, she discusses the pivotal moments that shaped her business and her passion for e-commerce. Tune in for valuable lessons on growth and ambition. Other Resources: Starting with $10k in 2004, losing it all, now $27M in sales and 55 staff selling fitness products. (Ben Crowley) Mastering team growth, hiring top talent, and building a thriving culture for success. (Lesley van Tuil) Are you based in Tasmania? We have a regular small business meet-up in Hobart and Launceston, leave your email here to get the invite. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Esther Rupenovic says the hardest part of growing a small business is being a solo founder and having to handle everything. From marketing and customer service to managing staff and systems, the sheer number of tasks can be overwhelming. She started with a passion for cooking but now juggles many different responsibilities. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Esther Rupenovic's favorite business book that has helped her the most is Winging It by Emma Isaacs. It was the first business book she read, and it resonated with her early in her journey. She also enjoys reading The E-Myth and has Shoe Dog by Phil Knight on her reading list. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Esther Rupenovic recommends three main podcasts that she listens to on repeat for growing a small business: Grow A Small Business by Troy Trewin, Hammersley Brothers E-commerce podcast, and Add to Cart by Nathan Bush. She highlights Add to Cart for its focus on e-commerce and its valuable insights for Shopify users. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Esther Rupenovic recommends using Shopify POS (Point of Sale) linked with a Shopify store for growing a small business. She finds it extremely handy for tracking inventory, customer data, and creating loyalty systems. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of using a detailed scorecard to track numbers daily, which provides valuable insights for business growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Esther Rupenovic would advise herself on day one to "just enjoy the ride" and dream bigger than initially imagined. She believes that setting higher goals allows you to achieve success more quickly than expected. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Embrace the journey and dream bigger than you think – Esther Rupenovic Professional development is a key to expanding your mind and knowledge – Esther Rupenovic Regularly carving out time for professional growth is incredibly powerful – Esther Rupenovic