In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin explore why being different often wins over being better when it comes to making your business stand out. If you're stuck competing on price or blending in with the competition, this episode will help shift your approach. Ben and David unpack what a true USP (Unique Selling Proposition) looks like, why so many businesses miss the mark, and how you can stand out in a way that feels authentic and valuable. You'll hear practical examples from a dentist who baked muffins in his waiting room, to Domino's delivery guarantee, and discover what it really takes to create a point of difference that sets your business apart. Whether you run a local cafe or a growing service-based business, you'll walk away with fresh ideas and a clear path to building a brand that customers remember. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to the Max Your Business Podcast 03:07 – The problem with common "points of difference" 05:17 – A dentist's simple but brilliant idea to change the customer experience 08:29 – Why your USP should feel a little uncomfortable 10:30 – Domino's 20-minute guarantee and how it works 14:02 – What "we care" and "quality service" really mean to customers 15:09 – Three questions to ask when shaping your USP 18:42 – Apple, Dyson, Zappos and how they used uniqueness to lead 24:30 – Why people pay more for better value 26:06 – The power of small touches (like a biscuit on a coffee cup) 28:24 – Why You Need to Look Up From the 'Mud Pit' of Your Business 31:17 – Final thoughts and practical next steps Key Takeaways: Different beats better: Customers remember what stands out, not what's slightly improved. Get specific: Generic claims don't cut through. Find what truly makes your business unique. Solve real frustrations: A strong USP often addresses something customers find annoying or hard to get elsewhere. Build around your promise: Once you define your point of difference, make sure your systems deliver on it. Ask your customers: They already know why they choose you—use their insights to shape your message. It's more than words: Your experience, guarantee, packaging or even a small gesture can be a strong USP. 🚀 Grab your free USP Workbook and start defining your difference: maxmyprofit.com.au/usp This episode is your practical guide to standing out for the right reasons. Tune in and discover what makes your business worth choosing. 🎉 P.S. We're turning 100 next week. Join us for the celebration in the next episode!

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, hosts Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin pull back the curtain on the Max Business Academy — what it is, who it's for, and why it works. If your business feels more like a demanding job than the profitable asset you imagined, this episode is for you. Ben and David reveal the common gaps that hold business owners back: poor time management, cashflow chaos, and lack of a written plan. More importantly, they share how the Academy helps plug those gaps with a proven structure and practical tools. You'll also hear real feedback from business owners who've gained control over their time, improved their numbers, and finally found the confidence to grow. And if you've ever thought, "I already know this stuff," but your business is still stuck, Ben and David explain why knowing isn't the same as doing — and how the right support makes all the difference. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to the Max Your Business Podcast 02:24 – What the Max Business Academy is and why we created it 05:23 – The power of coaching: Ben's cycling mate's breakthrough 08:52 – The "I know that already" mindset that holds business owners back 12:41 – The top 3 fundamentals most business owners neglect 16:30 – Real transformations: how Academy members improved their businesses and their lives 23:10 –Time studies and the eye-watering cost of poor time management 26:08 – What's inside the Academy: tools, resources, and a step-by-step structure 28:44 – Why we don't give you everything at once (and why that's a good thing) 33:24 – The real cost of not getting help sooner

Key Takeaways: You don't know what you don't know. Blind spots can quietly hold your business back.

Knowledge alone isn't enough. Without accountability and structure, nothing changes.

Every business needs a blueprint. Just like building a house, you need solid foundations.

Stop being your own bottleneck. A business should make you money without needing you 24/7.

Surround yourself with a supportive community. Learning from others speeds up your growth.

Want to build a business that works without you? Head to maxmyprofit.com.au to access the full enrolment pack and see how the Max Business Academy can help you build a more profitable, self-sufficient business. If you're ready to break free from the daily grind, don't miss this episode — and make sure to subscribe for more practical business insights every week.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin pull back the curtain on one of the most overlooked marketing tools for small businesses: the lead magnet. If your website isn't collecting leads, or your lead magnet is sitting in a folder doing nothing, this is the episode for you. Ben and David break down what a lead magnet really is, why it matters, and how to create one that does more than gather email addresses. It builds relationships and leads to real sales conversations. They also dive into the common mistakes businesses make with lead magnets, how to avoid them, and what a simple, effective follow-up system looks like. Whether you're just getting started or ready to upgrade your lead generation, you'll walk away with a clear action plan. Plus, Ben shares the surprising tweak that increased their appointment bookings even though it made their leads more expensive. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to the Max Your Business Podcast 05:53 – What is a lead magnet and why every small business needs one 08:10 – Real examples of high-converting lead magnets (plus the psychology that makes them work) 14:11 – Common lead magnet mistakes that cost you sales 18:10 – The critical role of follow up: why automation isn't enough 22:07 – How to promote your lead magnet and get it in front of the right people 28:28 – How much should you pay per lead? What's realistic for B2B and B2C 31:25 – Keep it simple: why one great lead magnet is all you need to start 33:03 – Advanced tactics: combining SMS, bots, and CRMs for better lead nurturing 37:10 – Old-school lead magnets, direct mail, and what's still working in 2025 40:51 – Your next steps: creating and promoting your first (or next) lead magnet Key Takeaways: A lead magnet is more than a freebie — it's the start of building trust. Solve a specific, immediate problem your ideal customer is trying to fix. Simple works — complexity stops people from taking the next step. Follow up fast: the first 10 minutes after a lead opts in are golden. Automation helps, but human connection still closes deals. 🚀 Grab your free Lead Magnet Workbook with 17 ideas you can swipe: maxmyprofit.com.au/magnet Tune in now and get practical tips to turn your lead magnet into a proper growth tool, and don't forget to subscribe for more smart business insights every week.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin unpack why most sales teams find it hard to convert. It often comes down to one thing: they don't have a clear, buyer-focused sales process in place. Ben and David share the seven essential steps every sales process needs, with practical stories from their own experience. From snapper fishing (yes, really) to DISC profiling, automation, and handling objections, they explain how to make selling less awkward and far more effective. Whether you're doing the selling yourself or managing a growing team, this episode will help you build a simple, structured process that leads to more confident conversations and better results without needing to be pushy or a "natural" salesperson.

Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to Max Your Business Podcast 06:15 – DISC & VAK refresher – reading personalities and communication styles 09:20 – "Telling isn't selling" – the questions that uncover true buying reasons 15:30 – The 7-step sales process worksheet – what to include and why 20:40 – Tracking conversion at every step (not just the final yes) 25:00 – Objections as buying signals (and how to handle them with integrity) 30:10 – Earn the right: how to build authority without sounding arrogant 35:25 – Turn quotes into sales tools: don't leave it up to price alone 42:15 – Handy links and your next steps

Key takeaways Process beats persuasion. A documented, step-by-step buyer journey lets even new reps convert like pros.

Educate first. Map out what happens next, so prospects feel certain and show up ready to decide.

Ask, don't tell. Open-ended questions (who, what, where, when, why, how) surface real needs and cut through polite "maybes".

Earn the right. Awards, reviews and credentials build trust – share them early so price isn't the only yardstick.

Measure each micro-conversion. Track drop-offs between steps to spot bottlenecks and lift overall win rates.

Objections are buying signals. Isolate and answer them on the spot, or tweak your process so they never pop up.

Grab the 7-Step Sales Process Guide – map your own workflow in under an hour. 👉 maxmyprofit.com.au/sales

Ready to stop "winging it" and start converting? Tune in now, share it with your sales crew, and subscribe for fresh, practical business insights each week.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin dive into why every business—big or small—needs a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system.If you're still using sticky notes, spreadsheets, or trying to remember everything yourself, this episode's for you. From their early days juggling paper lead sheets and Access databases, to the power of today's automated, all-in-one systems, they share how a CRM stops leads from falling through the cracks, keeps your team on the same page, and frees you up to actually run your business, not just chase admin. Whether you're a one-person show, a tradie with a growing crew, or just keen to stop missing follow-ups and forgetting who's who, Ben and David break down the real-world benefits in a way that actually makes sense. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to Max Your Business Podcast 04:15 – The early days: from paper clips and spreadsheets to building their own CRM 06:57 – How automation in CRMs saves time and stops leads slipping through the cracks 10:21 – Real-world CRM in action: lead magnets, fast follow-ups, and automated nurture 14:37 – Business examples: towing companies, smash repairers, and AI chatbots 19:27 – Google's 7-11-4 rule: how many touchpoints you really need before people buy 22:11 – Why modern CRMs are now all-in-one business hubs 25:09 – How a CRM benefits solopreneurs and small teams 28:00 – Making it easy: bookings, reminders, reviews, and scaling with less admin 30:12 – How to get started with DigiSyncro

Key Takeaways: You can't trust your memory (or your inbox): Systems save the day.

Automate the boring stuff: Emails, SMS, bookings, reminders—it's all done for you.

Be the first to respond: The fastest reply often gets the job.

Small business? Even more reason to get organised: Less admin, more time for the work you love.

Ditch the app-juggling: One system does the lot—no more logging in everywhere.

🚀 Want to see how it works? Jump over to digisyncro.com and book a free demo. Have a listen, grab a few tips, and see why the right CRM isn't just "nice to have"—it's the duct tape that holds your business together. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, hosts Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin explore one of the biggest challenges for business owners: how to measure real progress, not just busyness. It's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day, but are you truly building a business that gives you more money and more time, or have things ended up a bit different than you'd hoped? Ben and David break down the blind spots that keep business owners from moving forward, share stories from clients who've turned things around, and offer practical tools for getting clarity on where you're at and where you're heading next. You'll also get an inside look at their five-stage Business Acceleration Blueprint and learn how to spot the areas that need your attention most. If you're ready to stop spinning your wheels and start building a business that actually works for you, this episode is a must-listen.

Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to Max Your Business Podcast 03:48 – Client story: stepping back from sales and gaining freedom 07:05 – The real difference between running and building a business 10:56 – The five stages of the Business Acceleration Blueprint 15:40 – How to tell if you're tracking the right numbers 19:22 – Why learning and accountability go hand in hand 24:04 – Systemised and group accountability; "plus one" mindset 28:46 – Your next steps: the free blueprint quiz

Key Takeaways Start with a strong foundation. The basics—planning, time, and cashflow—are non-negotiable, no matter your business size. Know your numbers. If you can't name your break-even point, gross profit margin, or upcoming cashflow, it's time to take a closer look. Use a proven roadmap. The five-stage blueprint helps you understand exactly where you are and where you should focus next. Stay curious. It's natural not to have all the answers. Regularly step back, ask questions, and get an external perspective. Accountability matters. The right support helps turn plans into action and keeps your business moving forward. 🚀 Get your personalised Business Acceleration Blueprint at maxmyprofit.com.au/blueprint and take the next step towards a business that delivers the results you want. Tune in to learn how to identify what's holding you back and what you can do about it. Don't forget to subscribe for more practical insights and straight-talking business advice every week.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin dive into a timely topic: getting your plan together for the new financial year. Whether you're scrambling to close out June or already looking ahead, this episode gives you a practical framework to reset, refocus, and get results. If you've ever found yourself saying "Where did the year go?" or if your business plan is still sitting in your head instead of on paper, this episode is for you. Ben and David break down why planning doesn't need to be complicated—and how keeping it simple is the key to actually following through. From cash flow forecasts to visual tracking tools and default diaries, Ben and David will walk you through their proven approach to 90-day planning that's helped hundreds of business owners stay focused and profitable. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to Max Your Business Podcast 04:08 – The power of planning early and why it doesn't need to be fancy 06:41 – How a 90-day cashflow forecast leads to less stress and more clarity 08:30 – Why most plans fail (hint: it's not lack of goals, it's lack of follow-through) 10:05 – Set realistic goals: the less-is-more method 11:16 – Making your plan visual, simple, and actionable 14:30 – The secret to sticking to your plan? Time blocking and accountability 17:00 – It's not just your plan—your team needs one too 21:00 – The real value of coaching: shifting your mindset, not just giving you tools 23:28 – 5 action steps to start the new financial year strong 31:11 – Your next steps: free resources and simple action items

Key Takeaways: Plan to Plan: Block out time in your calendar—every single week—to work on the business, not just in it. Start with Cash Flow: A 90-day forecast is your baseline. You can't grow what you don't track. Less is More: Focus on fewer, high-impact actions each quarter rather than overloading your plan. Make It Visual: Put your targets somewhere you'll see them daily—whiteboards, dashboards, even thermometers. Get Accountable: Whether it's a coach, your team, or your kids (yep, really), make someone part of the process. 🎯 Download the free Simple Planning Workbook at maxmyprofit.com.au/simple to get started right now. This is your sign to stop flying by the seat of your pants and start building a business that runs with intention. Grab the workbook, set your 90-day goals, and let this be the year you actually stick to your plan. Subscribe for more real-world strategies and no-fluff advice every week on Max Your Business.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin tackle a challenge that hits home for so many business owners: You're making sales… but where's the profit? If you've ever looked at your revenue and wondered why there's nothing left over at the end of the month, this episode is for you. Ben and David break down the real reasons why businesses stay busy but broke and what to do about it. From silent cost creep to outdated pricing and the dangerous mindset of discounting, Ben and David will help you uncover the financial leaks and get back on track to building a profitable, sustainable business. With relatable stories (including a restaurant rethinking its entire menu) and straight-talking advice, this is a must-listen for anyone serious about turning revenue into real profit. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to the Max Your Business Podcast 04:18 – The discount trap: how it quietly destroys your margins 08:39 – Why increasing sales doesn't always solve your problems 10:50 – Clarkson's Farm: A business lesson in doing the numbers 13:23 – Charging what you're worth (and why most people don't) 16:06 – How one restaurant owner is adapting their offer for today's market 21:51 – Pricing with confidence and evolving your business model 23:34 – The maths behind discounting (and why it rarely works) 29:04 – The truth about time, effort, and delivery costs 34:53 – Service businesses: the hidden cost of underquoting 38:58 – The bottom line: know your numbers or gamble your future

Key Takeaways: Revenue ≠ Profit Sales are great—but they mean nothing if your costs are swallowing your margins. Discounting Isn't a Strategy A 10% discount could mean needing 30% more sales just to break even. It's not worth it. Small Price Increases = Big Wins Most customers won't even blink. And if they do? They're usually not your ideal client. Track, Review, Adjust If you haven't reviewed your pricing in the last 12 months, you're probably already behind. Use a Budget, Forecast, and Breakeven Tool Episode 86 walks you through how to plan for profit—not just hope for it. Mindset Matters Shifting from employee thinking to business owner thinking is the first step to charging what you're really worth. 📘 Get your free workbook The Dangers of Discounting at maxmyprofit.com.au/dangers

If you're serious about building a profitable business (not just a busy one), this episode could be the wake-up call you need. Subscribe for weekly episodes packed with practical advice and no-fluff strategies to help you Max Your Business.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin dive into the real game-changer in business—what's happening between your ears. They're talking mindset, beliefs, and how your internal dialogue directly shapes your outcomes. Whether you're stressed out, stuck in scarcity thinking, or just feel like your business is plateauing, this episode cuts through the fluff and shows you how to shift your thinking to unlock better results. Ben and David unpack the powerful formula E + R = O (Events + Response = Outcome), how stress is self-created, and why generalisations like "it's a tough market" or "no one's spending" are just belief systems holding you back. This is a no-nonsense chat about how your beliefs shape your business and how changing them might just change everything. Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Welcome to the Max Your Business Podcast 03:19 - What "the six inches between your ears" really means for your business 05:22 - David's breakthrough moment: E + R = O (Events + Response = Outcome) 09:11 - Why stress is self-created and how to stop "doing" stress 12:08 - Reframing external triggers: the blue-sky stress example 13:51 - Ben's pilot training story and staying calm under pressure 15:53 - Limiting beliefs and generalisations that hold business owners back 17:54 - The influence of childhood conditioning and early beliefs 20:15 - Redefining success: why mindset, not money, is the real driver 22:30 - The 4-minute mile effect: how seeing what's possible changes what you believe 26:34 - The power of micro changes: habits, triggers, and going "right instead of left" 29:02 - The mindset shift that changed a client's business trajectory

Key Takeaways: Your Mindset is Your Operating System The way you think determines how you respond, and that response shapes your results. Stress is a Choice It's not the event that creates stress, it's your reaction. And reactions are completely within your control. Your Beliefs Aren't Facts Just because you believe it's hard to find good people or make money in this economy doesn't mean it's true. Success Starts in Your Head The most successful business owners don't have different resources; they just think differently. Surround Yourself With Possibility The fastest way to shift your beliefs is to see what's possible for others. Read books, listen to podcasts, and get in the room with people doing big things. Ready to rethink the way you think, break through what's been holding you back, and build a business that doesn't depend on you 24/7? 🚀 Head to maxmyprofit.com.au to explore coaching programs, tools, and resources that'll help you grow your business the smarter way. Tune in now and make sure to subscribe so you never miss a mindset shift that could change everything.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin get real about one of the most common business complaints: "It's hard to find good people." But is it really a people problem or a leadership one? If you've ever hired someone who didn't work out, struggled to keep staff accountable, or found yourself doing everything because "it's easier that way," this episode is a must-listen. Ben and David unpack why most small businesses don't have teams—they have groups of people—and how to fix that. From sports analogies to real hiring mistakes, they reveal how to rethink your structure, define roles clearly, and become the kind of business great people want to join. It all starts with you. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Welcome to the Max Your Business Podcast 03:39 - Why most small businesses don't have real teams, just people working together 06:36 - Sports team analogy: the importance of defined roles and responsibilities 09:48 - Why you shouldn't just replace a person, redefine the role first 11:33 - The dangers of hiring without proper systems or onboarding 13:46 - Training vs micromanaging: how to set up new hires for success 16:06 - Hiring sales and marketing staff: why experience alone isn't enough 19:47 - What to look for when reviewing job applicants and resumes 22:20 - Accountability check: what your turnover says about your business 25:52 - The mindset shift: working on the business vs in the business

Key Takeaways: Your Team Starts With You – If you don't have the right people, look at your systems, clarity, and mindset. Structure First, People Second – Build roles, not just fill gaps. Define what success looks like before hiring. Hiring Is Marketing – Want top talent? Your job ad needs to speak to the right person, not just list duties. Train Like You Mean It – The first few weeks matter. Show new hires how to succeed your way. Think Like a Coach – In great teams, everyone knows their role and trusts each other to perform it. 📥 Download the free '6 Keys to a Winning Team' workbook at maxmyprofit.com.au/team Get clear on the kind of team you really want to build and how to lead it well. Ready to stop saying "It's hard to find good people"? Start building the kind of business they're excited to join. Hit play and don't forget to subscribe for weekly strategies that help you Max Your Business.