In this episode of The Flywheel Effect, host Brent Sonnek-Schmelz sits down with Andy Seeley, CEO and co-owner at Creatively Disruptive. They explore the real work of building and scaling a small business, focusing on what business owners miss when it comes to agency partnerships, systems, and growth.

Andy shares how many owners underestimate the responsibility and constant demands that come with running a business. He explains why most failures come from a lack of preparation, not from the market itself. Andy also describes common traps he sees when owners hire agencies—mistaking activity for results, ignoring process gaps, or treating marketing as a cost instead of an investment. He emphasizes the need for agencies to act as true partners, focused on profit, clarity, and long-term goals.

The conversation turns to practical ways business owners can adapt. Andy breaks down how better systems, strong follow-up, and new tools like AI can improve lead conversion and reduce stress. He urges owners to choose partners who understand their goals and are willing to solve problems side-by-side.