Grow A Small Business Podcast

Troy Trewin
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Jun 8, 2025 • 38min

Matthew Whyatt of Tech Torque Systems on Hitting $1M Revenue, Using AI & Personal Branding to Win B2B SaaS Clients, Growing to 70 Staff, and Why Discipline, Systems & Focus Are the Keys to Long-Term Business Success. (Episode 680 - Matthew Whyatt)

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin speaks with Matthew Whyatt, Managing Director of Tech Torque Systems. Matthew shares his entrepreneurial journey, scaling a previous business to 70 employees before intentionally transitioning to a leaner, more focused team of six at Tech Talk, specializing in B2B marketing for SaaS and tech companies. He discusses the power of long-term strategy, the impact of personal branding, and the growing effectiveness of hyper-personalized marketing. With revenue projected to exceed $1 million, Matthew attributes much of the company's success to a disciplined marketing approach, robust systems, and clearly defined processes. He also opens up about the realities of cash flow management, the importance of professional development, and the enduring value of mentorship in sustaining business growth. 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 Matthew Whyatt, the hardest part of growing a small business is avoiding distractions and staying focused on what truly drives long-term success. He stresses the temptation of chasing "shiny objects"—the latest tools, trends, or business ideas—that can derail progress. Instead, he believes in the importance of discipline, consistency, and nurturing the core business strategy. Using the metaphor of letting the oak tree grow from the acorn you planted, he emphasizes the need to water, tend, and build structure and systems around the business rather than relying on short-term tactics or quick wins. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Matthew Whyatt mentions several impactful business books, but one of his favorites that has helped him the most is The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino. He appreciates it for its powerful lessons wrapped in a fable format. He also highlights The Goal by Eliyahu Goldratt, which offers valuable insights into process thinking and business systems, and says that thinking of a business like a manufacturing process can significantly improve throughput and efficiency. These books have deeply influenced his approach to sales, systems, and business strategy. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Matthew Whyatt recommends several valuable podcasts and online learning resources for growing a small business. He highlights Dale Beaumont's Business Blueprint as particularly impactful, noting its structured, systems-focused approach and strong community of business owners. He also mentions learning a lot from thought leaders like Alex Hormozi and Neil Patel, especially around marketing and personal branding. In terms of podcasts, he recommends checking out Nathan Latka's podcast, which focuses on SaaS businesses and digs deep into financials and growth strategies—ideal for those in the tech and software space. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Matthew Whyatt recommends your calendar as the most powerful tool for growing a small business. He emphasizes the importance of scheduling tasks with discipline and structure to maintain consistency and productivity. In addition, he suggests exploring AppSumo to find lifetime deals on useful business tools, helping reduce the burden of monthly subscriptions while still accessing high-quality software for marketing, automation, and operations. These resources, combined with disciplined execution, can significantly enhance small business growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Matthew Whyatt's advice to his younger self on day one of starting out in business would be: "It's all going to be okay." This simple yet powerful message reflects his belief in trusting the journey, staying resilient through challenges, and focusing on long-term growth rather than immediate outcomes. It encapsulates the importance of patience, perspective, and perseverance in entrepreneurship. 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: Success is planting the acorn, nurturing it, and letting the oak tree thrive with systems and structure — Matthew Whyatt True success is the freedom to wake up and do what you love every single day — Matthew Whyatt Avoid the short-term sugar hit; long-term success is built on consistency and discipline — Matthew Whyatt
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Jun 5, 2025 • 21min

Mastering the Art of Speaking: Trang Nova of TrangNova.com Shares How Entrepreneurs Boost Confidence, Lead Teams & Win Clients Using Voice Power — From Skydiving Retreats to Speaking on Stages of 1000+ People. (Episode 679 - Trang Nova)

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 Trang Nova, a renowned speaker and speaking coach, who shares her inspiring journey from physiotherapy to empowering entrepreneurs and business owners to harness the power of effective communication. Trang discusses common challenges her clients face—including public speaking anxiety, team leadership, and building personal brands—and emphasizes that 93% of a message's impact lies in its delivery rather than just words. She outlines her approach to mindset, articulation, and vocal presence, and offers compelling case studies of clients who have achieved remarkable business growth through improved speaking skills. Trang also shares a practical tip: record and review your own speaking to uncover opportunities for impactful improvement. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Your Voice Is a Business Asset: Effective communication isn't just a soft skill—it directly impacts your ability to lead, sell, and influence. Learning to use your voice with clarity and confidence can elevate your brand and business. 93% of Communication Is Non-Verbal: Trang emphasizes that how you say something—your tone, pace, body language, and energy—has a far greater impact than the words themselves. Delivery drives trust, authority, and connection. Mindset Shapes Your Message: Many entrepreneurs struggle with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Building the confidence to be seen and heard is foundational to becoming a compelling communicator and leader. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Tailor Your Speaking Style: There's no one-size-fits-all solution. Trang works with clients individually to help them refine their unique speaking style—whether that means slowing down, speaking up, or pausing more intentionally. Leadership Requires Clear Communication: Business owners who lead small teams must learn to communicate with a balance of warmth and authority. Mastering hard conversations and motivational messaging is crucial for team growth. Practice with Purpose: Trang recommends a simple but powerful exercise: record a 2-minute video of yourself speaking and review it after a day. This builds self-awareness and helps you identify key areas to improve delivery and presence. One action small business owners can take: According to Trang Nova, one action a small business owner should take is to record a 2-minute video of themselves speaking—whether introducing their business or sharing a story — and watch it the next day to identify areas for improving clarity, confidence, and delivery. 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: Your voice is your most powerful tool — it can move people long before your product does – Trang Nova The way you say something speaks louder than the words themselves – Trang Nova Confidence isn't built by knowing more; it's built by believing you're already enough – Trang Nova
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Jun 3, 2025 • 50min

Francesca Moi of Empowering Virtual Solutions on Scaling to 78 Team Members, $1.5M Revenue, 75 Clients, Pivoting After COVID, Delegation Mastery, and Her Mission to Empower Filipino VAs While Helping Aussie Businesses Thrive. (Episode 678 - Francesca Moi)

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Francesca Moi, founder of Empowering Virtual Solutions. Francesca shares her journey from starting a business 15 years ago to pivoting three years ago to focus solely on virtual assistants (VAs). Since then, she has grown the company from 1 to 78 full-time equivalent team members, serving over 1,500 clients and generating $1.8 million in revenue. Her business connects Australian companies with skilled VAs from the Philippines, offering services in admin, customer service, and marketing. Francesca highlights the benefits of offshore teams, including better wages and work-life balance for her staff. She also discusses the importance of leadership, time blocking, and continuous professional development, while reflecting on the challenges and lessons of managing fast growth. Other Resources: When should a growing small business have a Board of Directors or Advisors? Get a return from an effective Chairperson of a Board 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: 1. What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? Francesca Moi believes the hardest part of growing a small business is managing people during fast growth. As her team expanded rapidly, she found herself in a managerial role she didn't enjoy. Balancing leadership with structured team management became a challenge. She emphasizes the importance of building the right support to complement your strengths. 2. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Francesca Moi's favorite business book that has helped her the most is "Buy Back Your Time" by Dan Martell. She values it for its practical strategies on delegation and reclaiming time as a business owner. The book deeply resonated with her as she scaled her VA business. It reinforced her belief in building systems and freeing herself from daily operations. 3. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Francesca Moi recommends listening to Alex Hormozi's podcast and reading his book "\$100M Offers", which she found incredibly helpful for refining offers and sales strategies. She also enjoys mindset-focused podcasts like those by Brooke Castillo from The Life Coach School. Francesca believes combining business tactics with personal development is key to sustainable growth. 4. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Francesca Moi strongly recommends hiring a virtual assistant (VA) as a key tool to grow a small business. She believes VAs help business owners delegate repetitive tasks, free up time, and focus on high-value activities. By building the right support team, entrepreneurs can scale faster and more sustainably. 5. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Francesca Moi would tell herself on day one: "It's possible." She emphasizes that in the beginning, she doubted her ability to succeed or even make a single dollar. Her advice is to keep moving forward, trust the process, and believe in your potential—because success comes with persistence. 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: Success isn't about working more—it's about working smarter with the right team – Francesca Moi Leadership is knowing your strengths and building support where you're weak – Francesca Moi Don't fear pivoting—sometimes the detour becomes the main road to success – Francesca Moi
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Jun 1, 2025 • 43min

John Abrams, Founder of South Mountain Company, on Building a $20M Architecture & Solar Business Over 52 Years, Embracing Employee Ownership, Rejecting Fast Growth, and Creating a Lasting Community-Driven Legacy. (Episode 677 - John Abrams)

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews John Abrams, founder of South Mountain Company, shared his remarkable journey from launching a small six-person architectural construction firm in 1973 to growing it into a thriving 40-employee solar business generating $20 million in annual revenue. A strong advocate for employee ownership, Abrams highlighted the advantages of worker cooperatives and Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), emphasizing their positive impact on productivity and employee retention. In his new book, From Founder to Future: A Business Roadmap to Impact, Longevity, and Employee Ownership, John Abrams explores the critical topic of succession planning for aging business owners, offering insights on preserving company values, fostering effective communication, and achieving a sustainable work-life balance. He also reflected on navigating challenges like the 2008 financial crisis and underscored the importance of community engagement in building a resilient and purpose-driven business. Other Resources: Companies We Keep: Employee Ownership and the Business of Community and Place, 2nd Edition by John Abrams The Company We Keep: Reinventing Small Business for People, Community, and Place by John Abrams 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 John Abrams, the hardest thing in growing a small business is getting everyone aligned behind a single mission—what he describes as "getting all the wood behind a single arrow"—while also maintaining core values in the face of numerous external temptations. He emphasizes that as a business grows, staying true to its founding principles becomes increasingly difficult, yet it's essential for long-term success and integrity. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? John Abrams' favorite business book that has helped him the most is Managing Transitions by William Bridges. He values it for its insights on how to effectively move from one stage of business to another, emphasizing that it offers guidance on navigating all kinds of changes within a company. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? John Abrams recommends several alternative sources of learning rather than traditional business media. He highlights The Ink and The Contrarian as valuable platforms, along with communicator Anat Shenker-Osorio for her insights on messaging and influence. While not all are strictly business-focused, he finds them powerful for understanding communication, leadership, and societal context—all of which he sees as essential to growing a meaningful small business. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? John Abrams recommends strong communication tools—both written and spoken—as the most important resource for growing a small business. He believes that clear, effective communication is the key to building relationships, aligning teams, and driving a business forward successfully. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? John Abrams would advise himself on day one of starting out in business to recognize that it's going to be an incredible ride, to enjoy every minute of it, and to stay conscious and aware of how he builds relationships with people, as they are the true key to success. He reflects that in his early years, he focused too much on product quality and not enough on the importance of people, which he later realized is what small business is really about. 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: When people are truly part of something, they give it everything they've got – John Abrams Growth is overrated and often the cause of trouble rather than triumph – John Abrams Communication is the key to small business — writing, speaking, and being transparent – John Abrams
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May 29, 2025 • 23min

QFF: From luxury cars to Helm Fellini, Hobart's beloved Italian restaurant. Passionate about hospitality, trust, WOWing guests, inspiring teams, and crafting unforgettable experiences with creativity & innovation. (Episode 676 - Shane Fell)

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 Amanda Jones interviews Shane Fell shares his incredible journey from the corporate world of luxury cars to becoming the driving force behind Fellini, Hobart's renowned Italian restaurant. With a passion for hospitality, Shane emphasizes the importance of trust, teamwork, and creating WOW experiences that leave lasting impressions. He discusses his leadership approach, focusing on empowering staff, fostering innovation, and building a people-first culture. Shane's insights into crafting unforgettable dining experiences showcase his commitment to excellence and adaptability. From customer connections to operational precision, Shane's story inspires business owners to pursue growth through passion and resilience. Other Resources: "Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect", by Will Guidara The 10X Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure by Grant Cardone 7 Tenets of Taxi Terry: How Every Employee Can Create and Deliver the Ultimate Customer Experience by Scott McKain Would You Do That to Your Mother?: The "Make Mom Proud" Standard for How to Treat Your Customers by Jeanne Bliss Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Passion Drives Success: Pursue what you love, as passion fuels energy and commitment in both business and personal life. Trust Builds Culture: Trust is the foundation of a strong team and an exceptional customer experience. Without trust, culture deteriorates. Empower Your Team: Value your staff by giving them a voice, encouraging innovation, and fostering an environment where they feel appreciated. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Customer Experience Matters: Success lies in crafting memorable experiences by focusing on relationships, first impressions, and understanding customer needs. Adaptability is Key: Stay open to change and embrace new technologies or ideas to remain relevant and competitive in your industry. Invest in Self-Growth: Continuously learn and grow through books, audio, and personal discipline to achieve goals and inspire others. One action small business owners can take: According to Shane Fell, one action a small business owner should take is to set clear non-negotiables for their operations, such as service quality and team behavior. Regularly reviewing these standards with the team ensures consistency and drives growth. 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: Passion is the fuel that transforms ordinary work into extraordinary success – Shane Fell Adaptability isn't optional; it's the key to staying relevant and thriving – Shane Fell Investing in yourself is the best decision you'll ever make – Shane Fell
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May 27, 2025 • 41min

From Not Happy Jan to $12M Success: Penny Burke's Journey from Essence to WhereTo Research, Building a Market Research Powerhouse with People-Centered Growth and Global Impact in the Business World. (Episode 675 - Penny Burke)

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Penny Burke, Director of WhereTo Research, shares her inspiring journey of growing the company to $12 million in revenue and leading it through a successful merger with a global firm. She highlights the importance of strong people skills, strategic thinking, and staying passionate about business. Penny also reflects on her early days in advertising and how those experiences shaped her leadership style. This episode offers valuable insights into sustainable growth, effective leadership, and staying true to your values in the business world. 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 Penny Burke, one of the hardest things in growing a small business is managing time, especially balancing business development ("hunting") with project delivery ("cooking and eating"). She explains that in a project-based business, it's challenging to constantly juggle winning new work while also delivering high-quality outcomes. Additionally, she emphasizes that people management — hiring the right team and dealing with performance issues—is another tough but crucial aspect of sustainable growth. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Penny Burke's favorite business book that has helped her the most is "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie. She considers it a classic and values its timeless insights on building strong relationships and effective communication—key skills in both leadership and business growth. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Penny Burke does not recommend any specific podcasts or online learning tools to help grow a small business. She mentions that her husband uses such resources more than she does, and she personally prefers listening to music during her downtime instead of engaging with podcasts or similar tools. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Penny Burke emphasizes the importance of market mapping as a methodology rather than a specific tool. She recommends identifying where your business can play, where it can win, and where you can build your fame. This market-focused thinking helps small businesses define their niche and develop a strong positioning strategy, which is critical for growth. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Penny Burke's advice to herself on day one of starting out in business is: "Just be good. Don't worry about size. Just whatever it is that you're going to do, do it really, really, really well." This highlights her focus on quality and excellence over rapid 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: The only thing I've ever wanted to be is good, and not just good, but great – Penny Burke Success is about working on great projects, attracting great people, and delivering great outcomes." – Penny Burke People like working with good people; don't underestimate the power of being one." – Penny Burke
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May 25, 2025 • 55min

From $250K in Debt to $300K Profit: How Jaemin Frazer Rebuilt The Insecurity Project, Downsized from a team of 35, Gained Time, Money & Mobility—Helping Leaders Erase Self-Doubt & Unlock Their True Potential. (Episode 674 - Jaemin Frazer)

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Jaemin Frazer, founder of The Insecurity Project, He shares his 15-year journey of turning personal and professional setbacks into success. Starting in 2010, he scaled to 5 full-time equivalents and 30 contractors but faced a $250,000 debt when the model failed. By restructuring, Jaemin now works just 24 hours weekly with his wife, from anywhere in the world, generating impactful results globally. His approach treats personal insecurity as a solvable problem, supported by six books and his innovative coaching framework, empowering ambitious midlifers to eradicate self limiting beliefs so they can show up to life at their best where it matters most. Other Resources: Leverage: How to change the people you love for all the right reasons and get the relationships you deserve Unhindered: The seven essential practices for overcoming insecurity Elegantly simple solutions to complex people problems The Self-Permission Method: How to succeed at life without using self-discipline The One Minute Coach. 356 Thought-provoking insights to start your day 12 Coaching Conversations Every Disciple Must Have 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 Jaemin Frazer, the hardest part is backing yourself. It requires resilience, resourcefulness, and staying true to your vision, even when faced with doubts or challenges. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? According to Jaemin Frazer, his favorite business book is "Key Person of Influence" by Daniel Priestley. He highlights its transformative impact on understanding business systems and structure. He also mentions other influential reads like "Awaken the Giant Within" by Tony Robbins and "The 4-Hour Workweek" by Tim Ferriss. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? According to Jaemin Frazer, he highly recommends the Tim Ferriss podcast and the Key Person of Influence podcast by Glenn Carlson for professional development. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? According to Jaemin Frazer, ScoreApp is a powerful tool for growing a small business. This quiz-based lead generation platform effectively gathers data and engages prospects while converting leads more efficiently. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? According to Jaemin Frazer, he would give no advice to his past self. He believes in the importance of learning from struggles without shortcuts, as those experiences add meaning and depth to the journey. 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: Success is a lifestyle built on purpose, not a race to exhaustion – Jaemin Frazer You can't build something meaningful without first backing yourself – Jaemin Frazer Insecurity is solvable, but it demands you confront what you've long avoided – Jaemin Frazer
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May 22, 2025 • 15min

QFF: LaTonya Roberts of Harmony Consulting Group on Scaling Smart: How Fractional COOs Help Small Business Owners Streamline Ops, Boost Growth & Step Into the CEO Role Without Full-Time Costs. (Episode 673 - La Tonya Roberts)

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 LaTonya Roberts, Founder of Harmony Consulting Group, shares how she helps small business owners streamline operations, scale sustainably, and step fully into their CEO role. She discusses the power of fractional COO support, her signature operational health audit, and the importance of strategic planning. La Tonya also explains how outsourcing day-to-day operations allows founders to focus on growth, clients, and innovation. With real-life examples and practical insights, this episode is a must-listen for any business owner feeling stretched too thin. Discover how to grow smarter, not harder. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Fractional COOs Add Big Value Without Full-Time Costs: You don't need a full-time operations executive to scale—fractional COOs offer expert support tailored to your business size and budget. Start with an Operational Health Audit: Assessing eight core areas of your business helps identify what's working, what needs fixing, and where to stop wasting time and energy. Strategic Planning Drives Sustainable Growth: Annual planning with clear 3–5 year goals, broken into quarterly milestones, keeps your business focused, flexible, and on track. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Step Into Your CEO Role: Let go of the day-to-day grind and focus on vision, sales, and growth—your highest-value work as a founder. Prioritize Communication with Your Fractional Exec: Clear roles, decision-making authority, and regular check-ins are key to a successful partnership. You Don't Have to Do It All Alone: Even with limited resources, bringing in trusted operational support—just a few hours a week—can unlock growth and free up your time. One action small business owners can take: According to La Tonya Roberts, one action a small business owner should take is to conduct an operational health audit to identify inefficiencies, streamline processes, and create a clear roadmap for sustainable growth. 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: You don't need to do everything yourself to run a successful business – La Tonya Roberts Clarity in operations creates freedom for innovation and growth – La Tonya Roberts Scaling starts with streamlining—fix the inside before growing the outside – La Tonya Roberts
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May 20, 2025 • 32min

Dr. Lynda Dean-Duru of Ashburn Children's Dentistry on Healing Her Own Sleep Apnea Without Surgery and Pivoting to Airway-Focused Pediatric Care to Help Kids Sleep Better, Breathe Easier, and Thrive Early in Life. (Episode 672 - Dr. Lynda Dean-Duru)

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Dr. Lynda Dean-Duru, founder of Ashburn Children's Dentistry, based just outside Washington, D.C. Dr. Lynda shares her inspiring journey of healing her own sleep apnea without surgery and how it led her to pivot her practice toward airway-focused pediatric care. She explains how early intervention in children's breathing and sleep issues can transform their long-term health. Tune in to hear how she's making a global impact by helping kids breathe better, sleep deeper, and live healthier lives. 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? Dr. Lynda believes the hardest thing is staying focused and committed to your vision, especially when it's not popular or easily understood. For her, the challenge was sticking with an innovative and nontraditional model of pediatric dentistry despite obstacles. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Her favorite business book is "Start With Why" by Simon Sinek. She values how it emphasizes understanding and communicating your purpose, which has been crucial in leading her team and connecting with patients. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Dr. Lynda highly recommends The Ed Mylett Show for its personal and professional growth insights. She also listens to Tony Robbins and Dean Graziosi, and uses ChatGPT to help organize her thoughts and explore ideas in her business. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? She recommends becoming great at telling your story with conviction. She emphasizes the power of storytelling to connect with patients, build trust, and market effectively—something she has used to grow her own practice. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Dr. Lynda would tell her younger self to believe more, be patient, and stay persistent. She reflects on the importance of self-confidence and trusting your vision, even when others don't yet see its value. 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: Success is changing the trajectory of a child's health, not just fixing their teeth – Dr. Lynda Dean-Duru Tell your story with heart—that's how people truly connect – Dr. Lynda Dean-Duru Most lifelong health issues start in childhood—we just have to know what to look for – Dr. Lynda Dean-Duru
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May 18, 2025 • 55min

From Oil & Gas at 17 to $100M in Construction: Jose Berlanga of Tricon Homes on 40 Years of Business Grit, Surviving the GFC, Scaling to 200 Team Members & Lessons from 7 Cafes and Multiple Startups. (Episode 671 - Jose Berlanga)

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Jose Berlanga of Tricon Homes, based in Houston, Texas. Jose shares his 40-year journey as a serial entrepreneur, starting in oil and gas at just 17, then scaling a construction business to $100M and 200 team members. He opens up about the challenges of the GFC, lessons from running seven cafes, and the mindset needed to survive and thrive in business. Jose also offers insights into hiring, delegation, and building resilience through tough economic cycles. Check out the book "The Business & Home Building" by Jose Berlanga — a practical guide that merges entrepreneurship with real estate insights. It offers proven strategies for building a thriving business while maintaining a strong and balanced home life. Focused on financial independence, property investment, and work-life balance, this book is a valuable resource for aspiring and established entrepreneurs alike. 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? Jose Berlanga believes the hardest part of growing a small business is persistence — staying mentally tough through uncertainty, setbacks, and the less enjoyable tasks. Passion can fade when challenges mount, but endurance keeps you going. He explains that growth brings constant change and pressure to adapt. True success, he says, comes from resilience, not just enthusiasm. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Jose Berlanga's favorite business book that has helped him the most is The Goal by Eliyahu M. Goldratt. He values it for its step-by-step approach to identifying and eliminating obstacles, improving processes, and turning challenges into assets for business success. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Jose Berlanga didn't mention any specific podcasts or online learning resources he uses. Instead, he emphasized his habit of writing everything down — capturing ideas, reminders, and tasks immediately to stay organized and avoid forgetting important actions in his business journey. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Jose Berlanga recommends focusing on self-awareness and skill alignment as the most important tool to grow a small business. He advises choosing a business that not only interests you but also matches your strengths — because success comes from doing what you enjoy and what you're genuinely good at. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Jose Berlanga would advise himself on day one to relax and trust the process — to do his best without stressing over outcomes. He emphasizes not forcing results and believes that if you stay committed and focused, things will work out as they're meant to. 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: Passion fades, but persistence fuels true success – Jose Berlanga You don't build a business alone — you build it with people you trust – Jose Berlanga Success is owning your time, not just your income – Jose Berlanga

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