Conversations That Grow

In this episode of Push to Be More, Matt Edmundson interviews Nikki Lindgren, a savvy marketer and agency founder. Nikki shares her journey from her small-town upbringing to creating her own agency, Pennock, which focuses on driving growth for seven-figure beauty and lifestyle brands. She discusses the importance of female role models in business, overcoming the challenges of her career, and the struggles of balancing work, family, and personal growth.

Key Takeaways:

1. Overcoming Challenges Leads to Growth: Nikki emphasised that challenges, such as her struggle to find the right path in her career, shaped her success. Her adaptability, from failed roles to building her own agency, showcases the importance of persistence in achieving long-term goals.
2. The Power of Female Role Models: Nikki highlighted how female business leaders, like Barbara Corcoran, have inspired her journey. She underscores the value of seeing women succeed in male-dominated industries and how it fuels her drive and approach to business.
3. Balancing Work and Life: Nikki revealed how she manages the pressures of running a growing business while being a mother of three. She finds energy through activities like running and cycling and ensures she builds a flexible schedule, prioritising family time while maintaining professional growth.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

In this episode of Push To Be More, host Matt Edmundson speaks with Scott Overbeck, founder of Seacoast Consulting Group, about his journey transitioning from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. They delve into topics such as strategic alliances, business growth, work-life balance, and the challenges of starting a new venture. 

Key Takeaways: 

1. Strategic Alliances Drive Growth: Scott emphasises the power of strategic partnerships in business. Rather than spending heavily on acquiring new customers, businesses can leverage alliances with complementary companies to reach their target audience more efficiently.
2. Work-Life Balance is Crucial but Challenging: Transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship presented challenges in maintaining a work-life balance for Scott. He highlights the importance of seasons in life and business, acknowledging the need to focus intensely on the business at times, but also ensuring a return to balance.
3. Productivity Through Intentionality: Scott stresses the value of intentional planning and managing time effectively. He shares how sleep, cutting out distractions like alcohol, and using systems such as weekly planning have helped him stay focused and productive in both personal and professional life.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to visit pushtobemore.com and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

In this episode of Push to be More, host Matt Edmundson interviews Elaine Pofeldt, author of Tiny Business, Big Money and The Million Dollar One-Person Business. Using sage insights from her books Elaine shares how entrepreneurs, specifically solopreneurs, can grow their business to seven-figures whilst still maintaining a satisfying lifestyle. 

Key Takeaways:

1. Systems and Automation Drive Growth: Elaine emphasises that successful solopreneurs use systems like Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and tech tools to manage their businesses efficiently. These systems allow them to focus on innovation and growth, rather than getting bogged down in daily tasks.
2. Flexibility and Control Are Key to Success: Entrepreneurship offers the flexibility to balance work and personal life. Elaine highlights how being in control of her own schedule allowed her to juggle family responsibilities while still growing her career, a benefit she encourages others to pursue.
3. Business Development and Building Relationships Matter: Elaine underscores the importance of prioritising business development and surrounding yourself with the right people. Building strong relationships, hiring well, and dedicating time to growth and development are essential for long-term business success.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to visit pushtobemore.com and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

In this episode of Push To Be More, Matt Edmundson interviews Joe Davis, a Managing Director and Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group, about his life and leadership. Together they discuss the importance of mentorship and vulnerability in business, Joe reflects on how being open about your own limitations can foster strong connections and drive success. Joe's advice and mindset offers a refreshing take on vulnerability in the business world and provides listeners with the tools they need to succeed in a high profile career. 

Key Takeaways: 

1. The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership: Joe emphasises that showing vulnerability, such as admitting mistakes or uncertainties, can build stronger connections and trust with others. This authenticity is crucial in today’s leadership, as it allows leaders to be more relatable and effective.
2. The Importance of Mentorship: Joe discusses the profound impact a good mentor can have on one’s career and personal growth. He encourages finding mentors who push you to improve while also having your back, highlighting that mentorship is a two-way street.
3. Balancing Personal Well-being with Professional Demands: Joe shares that maintaining personal well-being, through activities like running and meditation, is essential for sustaining high performance in a demanding career. He also notes the importance of drawing energy from positive interactions with others to stay motivated and focused.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to visit pushtobemore.com and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

In this archival episode of Push to be More Matt Edmundson sits down with Zafar Karim for a thrilling conversation. Going from the humble streets of East End London to the prestigious halls of Cambridge University, Zafar exemplifies resilience and success in the tech business world. He has mastered the art of steering fledgling tech IPOs and has a decade long journey in investment banking with titans like Solomon Brothers. Zafar shares his thoughts on self -awareness, the importance of resilience, and how taking responsibility for your circumstances can empower you to make significant changes.

Key Takeaways: 

1. Self-Awareness and Responsibility: Zafar emphasises the importance of self-awareness and taking responsibility for one's circumstances. He believes that understanding and owning one's limitations and decisions can empower significant personal and professional growth. This mindset shift from victimhood to responsibility is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
2. Intellectual Awakening and Continuous Learning: Zafar shares his journey of intellectual awakening during his time at Cambridge University, where he realized the value of diverse fields such as philosophy, history, and classics. He stresses the importance of continuous self-improvement and lifelong learning, highlighting how this pursuit has been instrumental in his personal and professional development.
3. Resilience and Adaptability: Resilience is a recurring theme in Zafar's story. He discusses how he navigated challenges from his upbringing in East End London to his career in investment banking and tech entrepreneurship. His attitude towards setbacks, including the financial crisis, is one of perseverance and adaptability, always looking for lessons and opportunities to grow despite difficulties.

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In this weeks archival episode of Push to be More Host Matt Edmundson sits down with Vision Captured's Dominic Gerleve, for a powerful conversation. Dominic shares his journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a leader in the fitness industry. He talks about the humbling lessons from his early career, the importance of health and fitness and how his father's heart attack was a pivotal moment that fueled his passion for helping others. Dominic's story is all about resilience, learning from failures, and the power of persistence. His insights are a reminder that true success comes from dedication and consistent effort.

Key Takeaways:

1. Importance of Personal Health Experiences: Dominic's passion for health and fitness was profoundly shaped by his father's heart attack when he was 12 years old. This pivotal moment motivated him to prioritise fitness and health, not only in his own life but also as a career focus. His early start in fitness, inspired by his older brothers, led him to a lifelong commitment to promoting health and wellness.
2. Resilience and Learning from Failure: Dominic shared how his initial venture into business ended in disaster due to poor paperwork and economic challenges, which ultimately forced him out. However, he viewed this setback as a valuable lesson that humbled him and provided insights that he applies to his current business endeavours. This story highlights the importance of resilience, learning from failures, and adapting for future success.
3. Creating Sustainable Health Habits: Dominic emphasises the significance of creating sustainable health habits rather than drastic changes. He advocates for incremental adjustments, such as keeping a food journal and gradually modifying eating habits. This approach helps clients build long-term health improvements without overwhelming themselves. Dominic also stresses the need for finding personal motivation and the "why" behind health goals to sustain commitment and overcome doubt.

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 archival episode of the Push to be More Podcast Host Matt Edmundson sits down for a conversation with Wired Differently creator Todd Saylor. Todd shares his journey from growing up with a legendary high school football coach for a dad to becoming a successful entrepreneur running 14 businesses. He gets into the importance of knowing what you want and going after it. A principle that Todd's father instilled in him early on. From turning a donut shop into the donut capital of the world to helping others build businesses that generate passive income, Todd's story is all about persistence and the entrepreneurial spirit. In a world where quick fixes and instant success are often glorified, Todd's insights remind us that true success comes from showing up, working hard, and staying committed to your goals.

Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Persistence and Passion: Todd Saylor's journey exemplifies the power of persistence and passion. From growing up with a high school football coach father to running 14 businesses, Todd emphasises the importance of knowing what you want and relentlessly pursuing it. His transformation of a donut shop into the "donut capital of the world" showcases his commitment to turning passion into impactful action.
2. Building Resilience and Leadership: Todd's father instilled in him the principles of resilience and leadership. These qualities are evident in Todd's entrepreneurial journey, where he not only built successful businesses but also helped others achieve passive income. His story underscores the importance of showing up, working hard, and staying committed to one's goals, even when facing significant challenges.
3. Integrating Faith and Business: Faith plays a crucial role in Todd's life and business philosophy. His experiences highlight the intersection of personal beliefs and professional endeavours. From producing a movie about his father's legacy to building a business that aligns with his values, Todd demonstrates how integrating faith with entrepreneurship can lead to meaningful and fulfilling outcomes.

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 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 :

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

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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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

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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: 

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.