Conversations That Grow

In this weeks archival episode of Push to be More Host Matt Edmundson talks to Ian Finch CEO of Mando Agency. Ian shares his journey from the early days of scraping by to leading a successful digital agency that partners with big names like JCB and British Red Cross. We dive into the ups and downs of running a business, the importance of just showing up and how to push through challenges with resilience and determination. Ian's story is packed with insights about creating a sustainable future for your company and his personal mission to be better today than he was yesterday.Key Takeaways :Resilience and Adaptability in Business: Ian Finch emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability in business. He shared his experiences of navigating through significant challenges like the dot-com bubble burst and the 9/11 aftermath, highlighting how his agency had to pivot and find new markets to survive. This resilience and ability to adapt to changing circumstances were crucial to Mando Agency's long-term success.The Value of Strategic Partnerships: A significant turning point for Mando Agency was the decision to partner with best-of-breed technology providers. This shift allowed them to work with larger clients and deliver more comprehensive solutions. The partnerships with technology providers, such as diagnostic engines for e-learning systems, helped Mando scale and attract clients like United Utilities, Vodafone, and Bentley, demonstrating the power of strategic collaborations.Importance of Self-Care and Mindfulness for Leaders: Ian Finch discussed his personal journey towards better self-care and mindfulness. He shared how creating space to think, checking in emotionally and spiritually, and engaging in physical activities like yoga and hiking have been crucial for his well-being. This holistic approach to self-care has not only improved his personal life but also enhanced his professional effectiveness, enabling him to add more value to his business.If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to subscribe and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

In this weeks episode of Push To Be More we once again dive into the archive to present Matts conversation with Andrew Kelly. Andrew explores the unsexy wisdom of just turning up. It's a lesson that really hits home in a world where everyone seems to be searching for quick fixes and magic bullets. From his days as an elite road cyclist to his current role leading groundbreaking research in Antarctica. Andrew's journey is a testament to the power of persistence and of just showing up no matter what.Key Takeaways:The Power of Persistence and Consistency: Andrew Kelly emphasises the importance of persistence and consistency in achieving success. Drawing from his experiences as an elite road cyclist and in his professional career, he highlights the "unsexy wisdom" of just showing up and putting in the effort daily. This approach, he explains, often leads to unexpected opportunities and long-term success, even in challenging and unpredictable environments.Relevance and Curiosity in Learning: Andrew discusses the significance of curiosity and the ability to discern relevance in the vast amount of information available today. He believes that curiosity drives learning and innovation, and the skill of identifying relevant information is crucial for making informed decisions. This mindset has been instrumental in his work, both in the corporate world and in his current role at the Antarctic Science Foundation.The Importance of Antarctic Research: Andrew Kelly highlights the critical role of Antarctic research in understanding and addressing global climate change. The Antarctic Science Foundation supports groundbreaking research that provides vital insights into the Earth's climate history and future trends. By drilling ice cores and studying ancient atmospheric conditions, scientists can develop strategies to mitigate climate change's impact. This research is essential not only for scientific advancement but also for informing global policy and conservation efforts.If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to subscribe and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

In this weeks episode, pulled from our extensive archive of excellent episodes, host Matt Edmundson sits down with Neil Morecraft, a high-energy businessman and performance marketeer, to discuss his personal journey through business. With a story that traverses bankruptcy, fostering a child, launching the company Digital Detective and much more, Neil's story is full of vital takeaways for any listener:Key Takeaways: The Importance of Mental and Physical Well-being: Neil emphasises how prioritising mental and physical health has been crucial in his journey. He shares practical insights on overcoming negative self-talk and adopting healthier habits, which significantly improved his energy levels and overall outlook on life.The Power of Self-Reflection and Honesty: Through his candid discussion about his struggles and successes, Neil highlights the importance of being brutally honest with oneself. Recognising what you truly want in life, rather than what you don't want, is essential for personal growth and achieving a fulfilling life.Balancing Life and Work with the "Power of Six": Neil introduces his "Power of Six" strategy, a methodical approach to creating balance between life and work. This involves focusing on six key areas: mind, body, personal relationships, lifestyle, professional contribution, and financial management. By prioritising these aspects equally, Neil found a sustainable way to achieve success and happiness.If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to subscribe and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast. 

In this conversation, Matt interviews Francisco Gaffney, who has a diverse background in IT, e-commerce, and mergers and acquisitions. Francisco shares his journey from growing up in Argentina to moving to Ireland and eventually starting his own business as well as his interest in helping companies expand globally. Francisco highlights the importance of mindset in finding success and discusses three key attributes that have helped him in the world of business:The Importance of Resilience: Francisco emphasises the value of resilience in both personal and professional life. He discusses how teaching his children to be resilient has been one of his biggest successes, highlighting that the ability to bounce back from setbacks is crucial for long-term success.The Role of Ambition and Curiosity: Francisco's journey illustrates the power of ambition and curiosity. From living near a rainforest in Argentina to exploring various industries like IT, e-commerce, and mergers and acquisitions, his drive to learn and grow has been a constant motivator.Gratitude and Mindfulness: Francisco practices gratitude journaling to stay grounded and focused. This habit helps him appreciate the present moment and maintain a positive outlook, which he believes is essential for personal happiness and professional success.Whether you're a seasoned business leader or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with wisdom and helpful tips for finding success. 

In this episode of the Push To Be More podcast, Matt enjoys a captivating conversation with Benjie Craig, a Silicon Valley business leader who shares his unique perspective on the power of servant leadership. Benjie discusses his journey from growing up in Pakistan to running a successful contracting business in the Bay Area, and how his experiences have shaped his leadership philosophy.Discover:Why Benjie believes that prioritizing employee development is crucial for business successHow a CEO's willingness to perform any task, no matter how small, can transform company cultureThe importance of creating an ecosystem where employees coach and mentor each otherStrategies for navigating the ups and downs of the construction industry while keeping your team engaged and motivatedHow Benjie's multicultural background has influenced his approach to leadership and fostered a deeper understanding of diverse perspectivesThroughout the episode, Benjie emphasizes the significance of empowering your team and serving their needs to unlock their full potential. He shares practical examples of how he has implemented this philosophy within his own company, Jemby, and the positive impact it has had on employee morale, productivity, and overall business success.Benjie also delves into his personal practices for staying sharp and focused as a leader, including the power of starting each day with a walk, working with his hands to process thoughts, and intentionally creating space for recharging.Whether you're a seasoned business leader or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with valuable insights on servant leadership, employee empowerment, and building a thriving company culture.Don't miss this engaging conversation with Benjie Craig, and discover why he firmly believes that the key to success lies in serving your employees first.

This week on Push To Be More as we explore the extraordinary life and career of Ugur Tanriverdi, a trailblazing bioengineer whose innovations are setting new standards in wearable robotics and prosthetics. Discover how Ugur's journey from a curious child fascinated by machines to a leading entrepreneur in bioengineering is inspiring and influencing the future of technology and human ability.In this episode, you will learn about:Ugur's Early Passions: How a childhood fascination with mechanics and the human body led him to the field of bioengineering.Overcoming Personal Challenges: Ugur shares his experiences with anxiety and the pivotal role therapy has played in his personal and professional life.Innovative Breakthroughs: Insights into Ugur’s work at Unhinder, where his team develops cutting-edge prosthetics that enhance human capabilities.The Role of Failure in Success: How facing and overcoming fears of failure and rejection are crucial for personal growth and professional advancement.Recharging and Balancing Life: Learn about Ugur’s unique approach to maintaining balance, including engaging in activities like Dungeons and Dragons to foster creativity and relaxation.Key Takeaways:The importance of mental health awareness and overcoming stigma in high-pressure environments like entrepreneurship.The impact of innovative bioengineering on improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities.Strategies for personal growth and dealing with internal barriers to success.Connect with Ugur Tanriverdi:To learn more about Ugur's work and innovations, visit Unhinder's website.Reach out to Ugur on LinkedIn to connect and follow his ongoing projects and insights.This episode is proudly powered by Aurion Media, which supports entrepreneurs and business leaders in amplifying their voices through podcasting. Discover how you can start your own podcast by visiting Aurion Media.Remember to subscribe to Push To Be More on your favourite podcast platform to catch every enlightening episode. Share this episode with someone who could benefit from Ugur’s inspiring journey and the transformative power of bioengineering!Let us know your thoughts and any questions you might have by leaving a comment below or on our social media channels. We love hearing from our listeners and look forward to bringing you more inspiring stories and powerful insights.

In this episode of Push To Be More, host Matt Edmundson sits down with Professor Christian Farioli, the digital marketing trailblazer who has made waves from Google to NASA and beyond. With a captivating story spanning continents and industries, Christian shares his unique philosophy for diving headfirst into life's challenges and emerging victorious.Discover:How a single book by Tony Robbins ignited Christian's spirit of adventure and transformed his life trajectoryThe power of "20 seconds of insane courage" and its ability to reshape your destinyWhy embracing discomfort and uncertainty is the key to unlocking your full potentialHow Christian's boldness and determination propelled him from Oracle to Dubai's digital marketing professorThe importance of adaptability and resilience in navigating the ever-changing business landscapeChristian's secrets for thriving in the face of adversity and turning challenges into opportunitiesThroughout the conversation, Christian's infectious energy and unconventional wisdom shine through, offering listeners a fresh perspective on what it takes to succeed in today's fast-paced world. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or simply someone looking to push beyond your comfort zone, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.So jump in, embrace the unknown, and get ready to swim with the sharks as Professor Christian Farioli shares his remarkable journey and the lessons he's learned along the way. This is one episode you won't want to miss!

In this engaging episode of "Push To Be More," host Matt Edmundson sits down with Vanessa Judelman, a seasoned leader and the dynamic president of Mosaic People Development. They explore the transformative journey of leadership through the lens of coaching, adversity, and conviction. Vanessa shares her personal story of overcoming a challenging work situation and how it propelled her into entrepreneurship and leadership development. If you're looking to elevate your leadership skills or understand the critical importance of coaching in leadership, this episode is packed with insights.Key Highlights:Vanessa's Leadership Journey: Discover how a negative experience with a boss inspired Vanessa to start her own business and why she believes good things can emerge from bad situations.The Essence of Coaching in Leadership: Learn why coaching is more than a skill—it's a fundamental aspect of effective leadership. Vanessa emphasises how coaching can unlock potential, foster growth, and lead to team success.Conviction as a Leadership Superpower: Understand the role of conviction in leadership decision-making. Vanessa discusses how leaders can navigate complex challenges with grace and make transformative decisions for their teams and organisations.Key Takeaways:Adversity can be a catalyst for personal and professional growth.Coaching is crucial for unlocking team members' potential and fostering an environment of learning and development.Leadership is not about wielding authority but empowering others to realise their full potential.Conviction and a growth mindset are essential traits for navigating the complexities of modern leadership.Join us in this deep dive as Vanessa Judelman illuminates the path to becoming a more effective, empowering, and successful leader. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned executive, or somewhere in between, this episode offers valuable lessons on the importance of coaching skills in leadership.Remember to subscribe to "Push To Be More" on your favorite podcast platform to get insights, links, and the complete transcript of our conversation directly to your inbox. And don't forget, leadership success starts with coaching!-----------------------------------------------------------------------For more insights and resources, visit our website at pushtobemore.com and explore the transformative power of leadership with us.

Join host Matt Edmundson as he talks with Stephen Whyte, an investor and business turnaround expert, on this week's episode of "Push To Be More." Stephen shares his experiences and insights on steering underperforming businesses towards profitability, the importance of effective leadership, and personal anecdotes that highlight his entrepreneurial journey.Key Discussion Points:Introduction to Stephen Whyte:Background: Explore Stephen's journey in the B2B software sector and his recent shift from QADEX to NED Holdings.Business Transformation: Insight into his effective strategies for revitalizing struggling businesses.The Inspiration Behind Leadership:Past Experiences: Understand how Stephen’s previous roles shaped his leadership style.Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC): Discussion on the crucial role of GRC in maintaining the integrity and profitability of businesses.Strategic Moves and Business Philosophy:QADEX Exit and NED Holdings Leadership: Stephen explains his strategic departure from QADEX and his new leadership dynamics at NED Holdings.Project Make Stephen Redundant: A unique initiative aimed at empowering teams and fostering business growth through autonomy.Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations:Work-Life Balance: Insights into managing personal life and career, including the transition to becoming an "empty nester."Future Plans: Stephen shares his aspirations for the future and the strategic direction of NED Holdings after moving back to Ireland.Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:Entrepreneurial Challenges: Addressing common hurdles like imposter syndrome and the importance of perseverance in entrepreneurship.Stephen Whyte leaves us with profound lessons on leadership and the transformative power of effective governance and strategic foresight in business. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation, full of actionable insights for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills or steer a business towards success.----------------------------Listen to this week’s episode of "Push To Be More" to gain from Stephen Whyte's invaluable experiences and forward-thinking business strategies! #BusinessTurnaround #LeadershipInsights #Entrepreneurship #StrategicLeadership

In this insightful episode of 'Push To Be More,' host Matt Edmundson engages in a conversation with Staeven Frey, exploring the intriguing and often misunderstood realm of neurodiversity. Staeven shares his personal journey of discovering his neurodiverse identity and the transformative insights it has brought to his life.Show Notes:Introduction to NeurodiversityStaeven Frey discusses his path to understanding his neurodiverse identity.The importance of recognising neurodiversity in shaping individual experiences.Childhood and Adult ExperiencesReflections on how a late diagnosis provided clarity on past life events.The role of neurodiversity in understanding personal interactions and professional endeavors.The Dual Desire for Uniqueness and NormalcyExploring the human need to feel both special and part of a community.How neurodiversity fulfills these desires in unique ways.The Power of Self-AcceptanceEmbracing neurodiverse traits as a source of strength.Staeven’s insights on turning perceived weaknesses into advantages.Human Connectedness and NeurodiversityFinding common ground in our differences.The role of shared experiences in building a sense of belonging.Thriving with NeurodiversityPractical advice on leveraging neurodiverse traits in personal and professional life.Staeven's approach to creating environments conducive to his neurodiverse needs.Join us in this episode as we get into the heart of what it means to be neurodiverse and discover the unexpected gifts it can bring to our lives. Staeven’s story is not just about understanding neurodiversity; it's a journey towards embracing the full spectrum of human experience.Tune in to this enriching conversation and uncover the superpowers hidden within our unique minds.#PushToBeMore #Neurodiversity #MentalHealthAwareness #PodcastLife