summary

In this episode of the Raising Expert podcast, Finlay interviews Charlie Curson, a strategy coach with over 25 years of experience. Charlie discusses his journey into coaching, the importance of strategic thinking, and the challenges faced by founders. He emphasizes the need for support in leadership roles and shares insights on the Midlands Investment Forum, a platform aimed at helping entrepreneurs and leaders connect and grow. In this conversation, Charlie Curson discusses the importance of connecting various stakeholders in the Midlands to support startups and entrepreneurs. He highlights the role of angel investors, the innovative potential of the region, and the need for a cohesive ecosystem to foster growth. The discussion also touches on future plans for events aimed at showcasing Midlands businesses and the importance of strategic thinking in leadership, culminating in the announcement of Charlie's upcoming book.

Takeaways

• Strategy is fundamentally about people.
• Success in strategy requires strategic thinking and execution.
• Founders often face unique challenges that require tailored support.
• The journey of a coach involves continuous learning and adaptation.
• Networking and collaboration can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• The importance of communication in executing strategy cannot be overstated.
• Coaching can be informed by experiences in various fields, including sports.
• Supporting founders is a passion that drives many coaches.
• The Midlands Investment Forum aims to foster connections among entrepreneurs.
• Saying yes to opportunities can lead to significant career growth. There is incredible support for founders in the Midlands.
• Connecting stakeholders is crucial for startup success.
• Angel investors play a vital role in the ecosystem.
• The Midlands leads in several key sectors in the UK.
• Many startups leave the region due to funding challenges.
• The event successfully showcased the region's innovation.
• Future events will focus on scaling businesses.
• Strategic thinking is essential for leadership development.
• Collaboration among stakeholders can drive economic growth.
• Charlie's upcoming book will provide a framework for strategic thinking.