How to Build and Leverage a High-Performing Team for Business Growth

In this episode of the Grown Up Business Podcast, host Paul Avins shares his recent experiences, including mastermind sessions and preparing for the Grown Up Business Awards. He presents an insightful interview with Michelle Cairns from Your Property Podcast, where they discuss the importance of building the right team to scale your business. Paul dives into the specific roles and energies needed at different growth stages, the value of consistent action, and reveals tips for effective networking and team-building. The episode includes strategies for recruiting talent and leveraging technology for productivity and concludes with an invitation to a free training on using team and tech to scale your business.

00:00 Welcome to the Grown Up Business Podcast

00:04 Year-End Masterminds and Awards

00:43 Interview Introduction: Michelle Cairns

00:58 The Importance of Team for Business Growth

02:56 Paul Avins' Coaching Journey

08:16 The Power of Consistent Action

14:46 Setting Big Goals and Intentions

24:30 Building a Successful Team

28:18 Buying Back Your Time

28:21 Finance and Bookkeeping

28:39 Digital Marketing and Branding

28:55 Recruitment Strategy

30:36 Understanding Your Profile

31:00 Building the Right Team

32:11 CEO Mindset

33:05 Prioritizing Tasks

34:40 Networking Strategies

36:21 Effective Networking Tips

47:06 Consistency and Clarity in Networking

48:00 Current Projects and Future Plans

50:52 Final Thoughts and Resources

In this episode of the Grownup Business Podcast, Paul Evans sits down with Kevin Chapman, a renowned executive and performance coach, and co-founder of the Physical Intelligence Institute. The discussion dives into how entrepreneurs can unlock their peak performance by tapping into their physical intelligence. From managing performance anxiety to understanding the role of neurochemistry in emotional states, this episode provides actionable insights for balancing work and life through strategic state management. Kevin shares practical tools such as breathwork, dynamic movement, and cognitive flexibility, emphasizing the critical role of physical intelligence in overall success. Perfect for entrepreneurs looking to enhance their performance, manage stress, and maintain successful relationships both at work and home.

00:00 Introduction to the Grownup Business Podcast

01:02 Meet Kevin Chapman: Executive and Performance Coach

02:44 Understanding Physical Intelligence

04:46 Managing Performance Anxiety

06:56 The Power of Breathwork

27:03 The Role of Serotonin and Gut Health

37:29 Balancing Health and Entrepreneurship

40:13 The Entrepreneur's Genetic Drive

40:38 The Importance of Recovery

41:13 Dopamine and Entrepreneurial Behavior

43:33 Celebrating Wins and Building Trust

45:19 Balancing Speed and Pace

48:50 The Power of Vulnerability

01:01:08 The Role of Physical Intelligence

01:07:42 Practical Tips for Entrepreneurs

Navigating Uncertainty: Insights from Paul McGee on Adaptability and Resilience

In this episode of the Grown Up Business Podcast, host Paul welcomes Professor Paul McGee, the author, motivational speaker, and known as the Mancunian motivator. The episode dives into crucial topics relevant to individuals and teams facing rapid change and uncertainty. McGee shares his personal journey, overcoming chronic fatigue syndrome, and evolving into a successful entrepreneur and bestseller of 13 books with an engaging concept called Sumo (Shut Up and Move On). The discussion explores managing mental resilience, coping with disappointment, and staying solution-focused. Key takeaways include McGee's seven essential questions for navigating challenges effectively, the importance of acknowledging and balancing emotional responses, and the power of reflection in improving responses to business and personal adversities. This episode aims to inspire, equip, and empower listeners to create better futures for themselves, their teams, and their customers.

00:00 Introduction to the Grown-Up Business Podcast

00:51 Meet Professor Paul McGee

01:46 Paul McGee's Journey: From Illness to Entrepreneurship

03:34 Overcoming Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

11:26 The Birth of Sumo: Shut Up and Move On

15:08 Navigating Rejection and Finding Success

27:04 The Power of Hippo Time

36:24 The Healing Power of Support

37:38 Showing Up When It Matters Most

40:47 The Importance of Reflection

42:12 Understanding Your Brain's Response

45:35 The Seven Questions for Solution-Focused Thinking

49:47 Applying Lessons in Business and Life

01:05:10 The Power of Positivity and Mindset

01:08:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The 2025 Budget Briefing, also recorded for a podcast, led by Jeff and his colleague, detailed the recent UK budget's implications on businesses and entrepreneurs. Jeff, a seasoned tax accountant with over 15 years of experience, provided insights into the extensive budget, highlighting key changes and their effects on business operations. Major points included significant increases in minimum wage and national insurance, affecting employer costs; changes to the employment allowance; and the importance of strategic planning around employee benefits and tax-efficient structures such as LLPs and EOTs. Jeff also covered the new capital gains tax rates, adjustments to reliefs, inheritance tax updates, the importance of timely planning, and the changing landscape for non-DOM rules and pension funds. Emphasis was placed on the need for businesses to plan for increased costs and consider productivity improvements and strategic tax planning to mitigate the impacts.

In this episode of the Grown Up Business Podcast, host Paul Avins engages in a deep conversation with Paul McGillivray about the importance of automation and technology in scaling businesses. They discuss the common fears entrepreneurs face when transitioning to new tech, the signs that indicate a business has outgrown its current systems, and the concept of fixed versus evolving systems.

Paul introduces his Scope framework, which helps business leaders strategise, clarify, and optimise their processes for better efficiency and growth. The conversation emphasises the need for a mindset shift from problem-solving to creation, encouraging entrepreneurs to view challenges as puzzles with solutions.

In this conversation, we discuss the importance of prototyping in business, the mindset required for CEOs, and the significance of patience and process in achieving long-term goals. Emphasising the need for lean methodologies and the role of innovation in scaling businesses. The discussion also covers overcoming team cynicism, the distinction between AI and automation, and the future of AI as a digital workforce that can enhance productivity without replacing human jobs.

Key Takeaways

• Automation is key to scaling a business effectively.
• Many entrepreneurs feel overwhelmed by technology and its potential.
• Identifying bottlenecks in business processes is crucial for growth.
• The fear of change often holds businesses back from adopting new tech.
• Fixed systems can hinder a business's ability to evolve and grow.
• Choosing the right tools should be based on the problems you need to solve.
• A culture of change is essential for successful software adoption.
• The theory of constraints can help identify and solve process issues.
• Mapping out business processes can reveal areas for improvement.
• The Scope framework provides a structured approach to business growth. Prototyping is essential for testing business systems.
• Entrepreneurs often desire immediate results, which can lead to frustration.
• Projects require time and patience to develop effectively.
• Scope creep can derail project timelines and objectives.
• A CEO must adopt a mindset focused on long-term value creation.
• Innovation is crucial for business growth and adaptation.
• Throwing more people at problems is often inefficient and costly.
• AI can serve as a digital workforce, enhancing productivity.
• Understanding the difference between AI and automation is vital for businesses.
• Embracing AI tools can provide a competitive advantage in the market.

Sound Bites

• "Software is turning the hustle and grind on its head."
• "The longer you leave it, the more the problem is."
• "What is the actual problem in the business?"
• "The scope framework gives you that perspective."
• "Switching from problem mindset to creation mindset."
• "Prototyping is basically mocking up your system."
• "Entrepreneurs want it all now."
• "Projects take time, don't they?"
• "That's project creep, really."
• "The CEO mindset is about creating value over time."
• "Innovation is key in business."
• "Throwing people at problems is inefficient."
• "AI is a digital workforce."
• "AI isn't going to make people redundant."
• "You're Batman, AI is Robin."

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Grown Up Business Podcast

02:09 The Journey of Automation and Tech in Business

04:37 Understanding the Need for Change in Tech

06:01 Overcoming Fears in Tech Transition

07:00 Identifying When You've Outgrown Your Tech

10:34 Fixed vs. Evolving Systems in Business

12:26 Choosing the Right Tools for Your Business

15:14 The Culture of Change in Software Adoption

17:12 Theory of Constraints: Improving Business Processes

20:57 Identifying Key Areas for Improvement

22:51 The Scope Framework for Business Growth

26:56 Switching Mindsets: From Problem Solving to Creation

30:40 Mapping Out Your Business Journey

32:33 Optimising Processes for Efficiency

39:51 Prototyping Solutions for Business Challenges

40:19 The Philosophy of Prototyping

43:00 The CEO Mindset: Patience and Process

46:45 Lean Methodology in Business

49:56 Overcoming Team Cynicism

52:44 AI vs Automation: Understanding the Difference

01:04:01 The Future of AI and Digital Workforce

Get Paul McGillivray's Book:

Scope to Scale: Drive your business success through the power of supportive software systems

...and you feel you're ready to take your business to the next level, here's a few ways I can help you.

1.Join the ScaleUp Saturday Newsletter

Get practical tips delivered to your inbox every Saturday to help you supercharge your sales, power up your profits and transform your teams.

2.Join our FREE 'Grown Up Business Academy' on Skool: 

Get access to hours of Pauls trainings in the palm of your hand on all things scaling your business to 7 figure growth

3.Book a seat at the next ScaleUp Boardroom

Spend the day with Paul at his home in Oxfordshire with 5 other powerful business owners and implement his insider strategies in just one day! You will leave with a crystal clear personalised roadmap to scale.

4.Book a free strategy call with Paul:

Book a space on Pauls calendar to talk through your business challenges and goals and leave with actionable steps and a clear idea of your next steps for growth.

Mastering Business Scaling: Strategy, Team Building, and Marketing Excellence

In this comprehensive episode of the Grown Up Business Podcast, host Paul Holmes uncovers critical strategies for scaling businesses effectively through acquisitions, strategic planning, and innovation. The episode dives into the importance of having a clear vision, leveraging technology, and building high-performing teams to navigate business challenges and opportunities. Listeners gain insights into the power of delegation, crafting irresistible marketing offers, and utilizing digital assets like video content to enhance credibility and growth. Real-world examples and practical advice highlight the significance of strategic investments, profiling for team effectiveness, and maintaining continuous innovation. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to join future boardroom sessions for deeper learning and to engage with the free 'Scale Up Saturday' newsletter for ongoing tips and insights.

00:00 Welcome to the Grown Up Business Podcast

00:33 Introduction to the Scale Up Masterclass

03:01 Paul's Background and Experience

07:32 The Importance of Strategy and Planning

09:53 Understanding the S Curve in Business

14:20 Building and Scaling Your Team

25:23 Leveraged Selling Systems and Technology

32:45 The Customer Journey and Marketing

36:02 The Power of Passion in Business

36:21 The Importance of Action in Transactions

37:01 Grabbing Attention in a Distracted World

40:08 Creating Compelling Offers

41:31 Building Trust with Guarantees

44:39 Adding Value and Avoiding Commoditization

49:41 The Role of Digital and Physical Assets

57:44 The Importance of Team Dynamics

01:05:17 Effective Recruitment Strategies

01:07:30 Planning Your Exit Strategy

01:10:47 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

...and you feel you're ready to take your business to the next level, here's a few ways I can help you.

1.Join the ScaleUp Saturday Newsletter

Get practical tips delivered to your inbox every Saturday to help you supercharge your sales, power up your profits and transform your teams.

2.Join our FREE 'Grown Up Business Academy' on Skool: 

Get access to hours of Pauls trainings in the palm of your hand on all things scaling your business to 7 figure growth

3.Book a seat at the next ScaleUp Boardroom

Spend the day with Paul at his home in Oxfordshire with 5 other powerful business owners and implement his insider strategies in just one day! You will leave with a crystal clear personalised roadmap to scale.

4.Book a free strategy call with Paul:

Book a space on Pauls calendar to talk through your business challenges and goals and leave with actionable steps and a clear idea of your next steps for growth.

In this episode of the Grown Up Business Podcast, host Paul Avins engages in a dynamic conversation with leadership experts George Anderson and Sarah Furness . They explore the multifaceted nature of leadership, emphasising the importance of resilience, effective communication, and the evolving role of leaders in modern business. The discussion covers practical strategies for delegation, the significance of feedback, and the necessity of self-compassion in leadership. The guests share personal experiences and insights, providing listeners with actionable takeaways to enhance their leadership skills and foster a high-performance culture within their teams.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership is about doing uncomfortable things for a cause beyond your own.
• Effective communication and understanding your team are crucial for leadership.
• The language used around team members can impact team dynamics significantly.
• Transitioning into a leadership role requires clear communication about changing relationships.
• Delegation is essential for growth, but it requires trust and transparency.
• Feedback should be a routine part of business operations for continuous improvement.
• Resilience is not just about bouncing back; it's about managing daily stresses and changes.
• Mindfulness and self-compassion are key to maintaining a positive mindset as a leader.
• Physical energy management is foundational for effective leadership and resilience.
• Creating a culture of reflection and learning from experiences is vital for growth.

Sound Bites

• "If you don't become a better leader, it's hard to attract talent."
• "Leadership is doing uncomfortable things for a cause beyond your own."
• "The language you use around your team is critically important."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership Insights

02:57 Defining Leadership

05:57 The Importance of Team Dynamics

08:48 Transitioning into Leadership Roles

12:04 Delegation and Trust in Leadership

14:54 Feedback and Continuous Improvement

17:49 Resilience in Leadership

20:59 Mindfulness and Self-Compassion

23:48 The Role of Energy in Leadership

26:59 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

In this episode of The Grownup Business Podcast, host Paul Avins shares expert insights on how serious entrepreneurs can level up their leadership, transform their teams, and scale sales to seven figures and beyond. The episode features a unique interview between Paul Avins and Graham McGregor, wherein Paul discusses actionable strategies and tips on identifying your dream customer avatar, creating irresistible offers, and implementing effective sales systems. Highlighted are real-world examples from diverse industries showing the application of these strategies. Paul emphasises the importance of focusing on physical and mental health for sustained success. He concludes with practical steps to turn insights into action and encourages listeners to engage and share their experiences.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

01:38 Interview with Graham McGregor Begins

01:55 Paul Avins' Business Background

03:54 Step 1: Identifying Your Ideal Customer

11:00 Examples of Ideal Customer Identification

15:25 Step 2: Crafting Irresistible Offers

25:23 High Margin Product Discounts

25:39 The Smile for Life Club Success

26:25 Three Key Offers for Scaling

27:25 Testing Offers with AI

29:29 The Importance of a Selling System

34:47 Creating a Community Through Events

42:39 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

In this episode of the Grown Up Business Podcast, Paul Avins sits down with Simon Leslie, a serial entrepreneur with decades of experience in growing businesses. Simon shares his insights into what it takes to scale a business to new heights, navigate the various phases of business growth, and evolve as a leader along the way.

1. The Evolution of a Business: Simon compares business growth to human development, explaining how businesses go through stages similar to adolescence. He discusses the responsibilities that come with scaling up and the moment when a business must decide to remain small or grow bigger.
2. Delegating and Trust: As businesses scale, the need to delegate and trust others becomes crucial. Simon emphasizes the challenge of letting go and allowing others to take on responsibilities, even if they don't do things exactly as the founder would.
3. The Importance of Professional Growth: The episode explores the transition from a "scrappy" startup to a more professional organization. Simon discusses when and why to implement formal processes like HR and how these changes impact business culture and dynamics.
4. Knowing When to Scale: Simon and Paul discuss the pivotal moments when a business must decide whether to stay small or push for growth. Simon shares his experience with expanding his business to global markets and the challenges that come with operating in different countries.
5. Building High-Performing Teams: One of the key aspects of scaling a business is building a high-performing team. Simon talks about the importance of trust within an organization and how it can propel a business forward.

• Paul Avins: "If you can't build a team, you can't live the dream."
• Simon Leslie: "A grown-up business is one that's full of problems and full of opportunities."

[00:00:01] Setting the stage for an insightful conversation about building and scaling a global brand.

[00:02:36] Defining a Grown-Up Business

[00:04:45] The Beginnings of an Entrepreneur: Simon shares his early experiences

[00:07:04] Scaling Up and Leadership Evolution.

[00:09:26] Embracing Professionalism in Business

[00:11:48] The Challenges of Growth and Staying Small

[00:14:07] Global Expansion and Cultural Nuances

[00:18:54] The Philosophy of Selling and Building Relationships

[00:25:48] Persistence and Playing the Long Game

[00:32:53] Buying a Football Club and Making a Difference

[00:37:31] Vision for the Future and Community Impact

[00:44:34] Lessons Learned from Selling a Business

[00:51:34] The Dash to the Finish – Life's Journey

[01:00:41] Wrapping Up and Key Takeaways

• Paul Avins: LinkedIn
• Simon Leslie: LinkedIn

Make sure to subscribe to the Grown Up Business Podcast for more insightful conversations with industry leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with your network to help more entrepreneurs level up their business game.

In this episode of the Grown Up Business Podcast, host Paul Avins sits down with Simon Morton, founder of Eyeful Presentations, to discuss the emotional and strategic journey of exiting a business. After building a multimillion-pound company from scratch, Simon shares the pivotal moment when he decided to transition from owner to benefactor by selling his company through an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).

The conversation delves deep into the complexities of letting go, preparing the right leadership team, and leaving a lasting legacy. Simon offers invaluable insights for entrepreneurs who are contemplating their own exit strategies, including why he chose an EOT over traditional exit options like a trade sale. For business owners considering their future, this episode is full of practical advice and reflections on the personal side of stepping away from a company you’ve nurtured for years.

• From Founder to Benefactor: Simon discusses his decision to sell his business through an EOT, enabling his team to take ownership while ensuring the legacy and culture of Eyeful Presentations would continue.
• The Emotional Toll of Exiting: Learn how Simon managed the personal and emotional aspects of leaving the business he built over 18 years, and why it was important to time his exit correctly.
• Building a Legacy: Simon shares how his focus on team building and leadership development allowed him to confidently hand over the reins, ensuring that the company would continue to grow after his departure.
• Choosing the Right Exit Strategy: Hear why Simon rejected the idea of a trade sale and how the EOT structure aligned with his values of fairness, legacy, and future growth.

Paul Avins:

1. “I think one of the biggest questions for entrepreneurs is: ‘When do you know it’s time to step away, and how do you ensure the business thrives without you?’”
2. “The legacy you’ve built with your team is incredible. It’s not just about growing a business but growing the people within it.”

Simon Morton:

1. “The hardest part wasn’t making the decision to sell, it was realising that my chapter in the company was over and being at peace with it.”
2. “Employee Ownership Trusts aren’t just a financial transaction; they’re about giving the business back to the people who made it what it is.”

To learn more about Simon Morton's book, The Guide to Transitioning from Boss to Benefactor, and discover whether an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) is the right exit strategy for your business, follow Simon on LinkedIn for updates and insights.

• Paul Avins: @PaulAvins
• Simon Morton: @SimonMorton

Simon's new book is out: https://amzn.eu/d/6Zwqo9T