In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way business owners work, plan, and grow. If you're picturing robots or complex coding, think again. This is about simple, practical uses that save time, reduce admin, and help you make better decisions. From writing emails and analysing financials, to handling job applications and quoting systems, AI is now a real, affordable tool for small businesses. Ben and David break down the possibilities and share examples from their own clients (and lives) to show how AI can act as a smart assistant in your business without needing a tech background to get started. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to the Max Your Business Podcast 03:13 – Why AI is part of this year's business planning discussions 07:34 – What AI can already do in retail and service industries 10:56 – Ben's AI-driven recruitment process and assistant-built interview questions 13:15 – Writing songs, creating recipes, and having fun with AI 17:03 – AI-powered chatbots that qualify and forward leads in real time 19:26 – Using AI in admin: Trello, emails, quoting, and follow-ups 23:26 – Voice commands, Aussie accents, and how to "chat" with your AI 25:41 – Getting started: use the pro version and build a daily habit 31:33 – Real examples of saving time and improving systems with AI 34:03 – Looking ahead: AI assistants, automation tools, and upcoming workshops Key Takeaways: Start small - You don't need to overhaul your business. Just start using AI for one task today like summarising an email or writing a caption. Think of it as your assistant - AI isn't just a tool, it's a digital team member. Give it clear instructions, and it'll return better, faster results than you'd expect. It's already here This isn't future tech. Businesses around you are already using it to save time, respond faster, and grow smarter. Knowledge is power The better you understand what AI can do, the more you'll find ways to use it. There's a huge opportunity here especially if you get in early. Want help getting started? Ben is hosting AI workshops to help business owners learn how to build and use AI assistants in their day-to-day operations. 👉 Visit www.maxmyprofit.com.au to register for the next free online workshop and access more tools to help you scale with less stress. Tune in for the full chat and start imagining what's possible for your business.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin break down one of the easiest, most overlooked ways to grow your revenue—getting your customers to spend more, without resorting to hard-selling or gimmicks. From supermarkets to service-based businesses, the strategies shared in this episode apply to any industry. Whether it's bundling products, using checklists, or simply asking the right questions at the right time, Ben and David unpack real-world tactics you can implement straight away. If you've been focused on getting more customers, this episode will show you the power of doing more with the customers you already have. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to the Max Your Business Podcast 2:12 - The McDonald's upsell example and why most businesses miss this opportunity 5:17 - Supermarket strategies: loss leaders, store layouts, and impulse buys 10:48 - How to adapt upsell tactics for service-based businesses 13:20 - Using checklists and quoting techniques to uncover upsell opportunities 15:21 - Mindset shifts around upselling and handling customer rejection 18:02 - Building a 90-day plan to increase average spend with simple strategies 21:43 - Why upsells drive pure profit and how to make them part of your system 24:47 - Raising prices strategically to improve margins and average spend 26:27 - Case study: a restaurant adapts its pricing model for profitability 29:31 - Final thoughts and next steps, plus where to get the free workbook

Key Takeaways: It's Easier Than You Think: Getting existing customers to spend more is one of the simplest ways to boost your bottom line. Track Your Average Spend: What gets measured gets improved—so start by knowing your numbers. Borrow Retail Strategies: Think like a supermarket—loss leaders, impulse buys, and bundling still work. Don't Fear the 'No': Around 70% of people might say no to an upsell—but 30% will say yes. Focus on them. Raise Your Prices (Smartly): Price increases don't have to scare people off—if you're adding value, they'll understand. Plan to Succeed: Map out three strategies over 90 days—track your results, tweak where needed, and watch your profits grow. 🚀 Ready to turn small tweaks into serious profit? Download your free Average Spend Workbook: maxmyprofit.com.au/spend Tune in to discover simple yet powerful ways to increase your customer spend—strategies that Ben and David have refined through years of hands-on business coaching. Don't forget to subscribe for more valuable episodes packed with practical insights!

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin tackle one of the biggest transitions a business owner can face—handing over the reins to a General Manager. Most business owners are already acting as the GM without even realising it. But if you want to scale, take a step back, or simply stop being the bottleneck in your business, at some point you'll need to redefine your role. Ben and David unpack what a true General Manager actually does (hint: it's not just being a glorified operations manager), the mindset shifts required to step away from the day-to-day, and why delegation is very different to abdication. Whether you're already considering bringing someone in, or you're still clinging to your baby. This episode will help you prepare your business, your team, and yourself for the change. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to Max Your Business Podcast 04:23 – What is a General Manager really, and do you already have one? 09:51 – You can't just "hand it over", you need to define the role first 12:45 – Generalist vs specialist: what to look for in your future GM 14:41 – Why most employees won't think like an owner—and that's okay 16:33 – How to structure your business so a GM can actually succeed 23:05 – Start with your structure, not the hire 27:24 – Is promoting from within the best move? Pros and cons 30:31 – Are you really ready to stop being the GM?

Key Takeaways: Structure First, Hire Later: Don't jump the gun. You need a clear business structure and defined roles before you bring in a GM. Clarity is Everything: If you can't explain what your GM should do on a Monday morning, you're not ready to hire one. Mind the Mindset Gap: Your GM won't think like an owner and that's okay. Focus on outcomes, not control. Promote or Hire? It Depends: Promoting from within brings loyalty; hiring externally brings fresh eyes. Know what your business needs. Make it a Strategic Role: The GM isn't there to be the best worker, they're there to manage people, assets, and growth. Delegation ≠ Abdication: Give them the tools, the structure, and the trust to lead—don't just toss them the keys and hope. 🚀 Ready to get serious about stepping out of the day-to-day? Download the free Role Clarity Workbook at maxmyprofit.com.au/clarity and start mapping out your path to a business that runs without you. Tune in as Ben and David share practical insights and strategies drawn from years of real-world business coaching. Subscribe now to make sure you never miss an episode packed with value for your business journey.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin unpack a topic that too many business owners avoid – budgeting. If you're making sales but still struggling to pay the bills, this one's a must-listen. Ben and David dive into why most small businesses react to their finances instead of planning for them, and how flipping that approach can help you build a business that actually works for you. Ben and David share simple strategies, personal lessons, and practical tools that show you budgeting isn't about cutting back – it's about making confident, well-informed decisions to grow your business and stay in control. Episode Highlights:

0:00 - Welcome to Max Your Business Podcast 2:00 - The common belief that budgeting is only for large businesses 5:14 - Planning for profit, not just tracking spending 7:15 - Why now is the perfect time to start budgeting 12:35 - How poor P&L setup hides insights and impacts decision-making 17:03 - Why most accounting software isn't enough on its own 22:39 - Profit First, the concept of underdrafts, and the stress of reactive cash flow 26:03 - Three scenarios when budgeting becomes mission-critical 32:16 - The confidence, control, and clarity that a budget provides

Key Takeaways: Start with profit, not expenses: A good budget begins with your income goals, not what you want to spend.

Fix your P&L layout: If you can't read it easily, it's not helping you run your business.

Talk to your accountant early: Especially before the end of the financial year—don't wait until it's too late to optimise.

Don't rely on software alone: Most accounting platforms don't give you the clarity you need to make good decisions.

Budget for growth, not just survival: Whether you're scaling or stabilising, budgeting puts you in the driver's seat.

Forecasting brings peace of mind: When you can see your money, you can sleep better at night.

"Miscellaneous" isn't a category

📘 Download your free Cash Flow Workbook here: maxmyprofit.com.au/cash If you want to stop flying blind and start building a more profitable, stress-free business, this episode is a great place to start. Subscribe for more straight-talking advice from Ben and David to help you max your business potential.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, join hosts Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin as they dive into why tracking KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) is absolutely critical if you want to grow and future-proof your business. With their usual practical, no-nonsense advice, Ben and David unpack how KPIs serve as the "dashboard" for your business, helping you stay on course, measure progress, and make better decisions rather than relying on gut feel alone. They also share real-world strategies for setting up simple, effective KPIs that keep you and your team focused without overwhelming anyone. Listeners will walk away with a clear understanding of what KPIs to track, how to introduce them into your business, and why they are the secret weapon for building a more profitable, stress-free business.

Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to Max Your Business Podcast 02:44 – What a KPI actually is and why it is critical for business success 06:13 – The dangers of relying purely on gut feel 08:34 – How to set KPIs properly (keep them simple and measurable) 11:16 – Understanding leading versus lagging KPIs 13:00 – Real-world example: using a 100-point KPI system to drive sales 19:46 – Common mistakes to avoid when setting KPIs 21:07 – How cash flow forecasting gives business owners peace of mind 24:06 – The power of visual dashboards and simple KPI tracking 31:40 – The five essential KPIs every business should measure 33:44 – Best practice: setting 3 to 5 KPIs per role for clarity and performance

Key Takeaways: KPIs are indicators, not just numbers: They show whether you are on track to achieve your goals. Start small and simple: One good KPI is better than 20 confusing ones. Focus on both activity and outcomes: It is not just about being busy, it is about getting results. Leading KPIs predict the future: Track actions that drive the results you want. Make KPIs visible: Visual dashboards and graphs make it easier for your team to stay on course. Review KPIs regularly: KPIs only work if you check them often and act when needed. KPIs help you build a business that can run without you: They are essential if you want to step back and still see your business grow. 🚀 Download your free copy of 63 KPI Examples to kickstart your business dashboard. Head to maxmyprofit.com.au/KPI to grab it now. Tune in to this episode to learn how KPIs can become the silent engine behind a thriving, scalable business. Subscribe for more practical insights to help you Max Your Business!

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, join hosts Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin as they explore what truly drives the value of a business beyond just profits and sales. Packed with actionable insights and real-life examples, this episode reveals the strategies to maximise the worth of your business through systemisation, customer retention, marketing effectiveness, owner independence, and a strong team culture. Listeners will gain practical strategies on leveraging technology like AI, automating routine tasks, creating consistent revenue streams, and fostering an environment where the business thrives without the owner's constant involvement. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to Max Your Business Podcast 04:08 – Exploring AI's power in automation and daily business tasks 06:41 – Common misconceptions around business valuation and profit 12:56 – How to identify and systemise repetitive tasks 17:08 – "Systemise the routine, humanise the exception" – what this means in action 21:07 – Real examples of saving time through automation and tools 24:59 – Why repeat customers add more value than one-off buyers 30:02 – Subscription services and what we can learn from major brands 32:35 – Building reputation and marketing systems that scale 35:09 – Reducing owner dependency to boost overall business value 37:41 – A strong team culture as a key driver of long-term success Key Takeaways: Systemise for Success: Automating routine tasks significantly enhances efficiency and business value. Customer Loyalty Pays: Repeat customers and robust loyalty programs directly impact business valuation. Strategic Marketing: Effective, predictable marketing systems are vital for sustained growth. Owner Independence: Businesses are more valuable when they can operate effectively without constant owner involvement. Team Strength: Cultivating a strong team culture and clear organisational roles increases the attractiveness and longevity of your business. 🚀 Get your free Business Value Workbook at maxmyprofit.com.au/value and start maximising the true value of your business today! Tune in for invaluable insights and expert advice from Ben and David, designed to help you elevate your business to new levels of profitability and sustainability. Subscribe now to stay updated with more essential business strategies!

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, join hosts Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin as they unpack the proven power of SMART goals. Discover how clearly defined goals can significantly accelerate your business success and turn your ideas into reality. Ben and David provide straightforward, practical advice on setting goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound—and they also introduce two bonus elements to create SMARTER goals, designed to ramp up your motivation and success. Filled with relatable stories, practical examples, and expert insights drawn from their extensive experience as business coaches, this episode will help you confidently set achievable goals, maintain momentum, and consistently track your progress. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to the Max Your Business Podcast 06:30 – What are SMART Goals? Breaking down the acronym clearly 10:38 – SMART in action: Practical examples of effective goal-setting 11:00 – Bonus Insight: Visualising success and why it matters 13:10 – The GPS analogy: Starting from the outcome to map your path 17:24 – Common mistakes people make with goal-setting and how to avoid them 28:28 – SMARTER Goals: Evaluating and reviewing your goals regularly 29:30 – SMARTER Goals: Rewarding yourself to boost motivation 31:30 – Why writing goals down significantly increases success rates 37:00 – Creating your step-by-step action plan 40:02 – The power of accountability in achieving your goals 41:30 – How to get started today

Key Takeaways: Be Clear and Specific: Clearly defined goals dramatically boost your chances of success. Measure Progress: Regular measurement keeps you focused and informed. Keep it Achievable and Realistic: Set ambitious yet attainable goals. Set Deadlines: Timelines and checkpoints make goals actionable and urgent. Regular Check-ins: Regularly evaluate your progress and adjust as needed. Celebrate Wins: Rewarding yourself boosts motivation and encourages continued success. 🚀 Grab your SMART Goals Workbook at: maxmyprofit.com.au/smart Tune in for actionable insights and proven strategies from Ben and David's years of coaching experience. Don't forget to subscribe for more episodes designed to help you max your business potential!

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, hosts Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin dive into a sneaky time thief that's holding too many business owners back—the email inbox. If you find yourself constantly checking emails, getting lost in a sea of CCs, or reacting to every ping and notification, then this episode will be a game-changer. Ben and David unpack the systems, habits, and mindset shifts you need to get your email under control and save hours every single week. Whether you're running a team or flying solo, this episode is packed with insights that will help you boost productivity, delegate effectively, and stop being a slave to your inbox. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to the Max Your Business Podcast 05:18 – The shift from physical folders to scanning and digital filing systems 07:50 – Learn this email-address system and how it streamlines everything 11:03 – Creating functional email addresses for different business roles 12:52 – Delegating inbox management to VAs and setting them up for success 14:55 – Smart folder setups, rules, and filters that do the sorting for you 20:01 – Breaking the habit of reactive email checking: take back your time 21:48 – Turning off notifications to protect your focus and productivity 26:37 – What disorganisation is really costing you (and your business) 28:51 – Real client stories: reclaiming time and unlocking growth 36:25 – Think like a business owner, not just the busiest person in the room 37:17 – Get access to the free workbook and start saving hours each week

Key Takeaways: Get Organised – Separate your inboxes by function (e.g. accounts@, marketing@) to streamline your comms. Automate the Admin – Use rules, folders, and filters to sort emails without lifting a finger. Ditch the Distractions – Turn off notifications and stop letting emails dictate your day. Delegate with Purpose – Empower your VA or team to manage certain inboxes or platforms. Think Bigger – Every minute you waste on low-level tasks is time you're not growing your business. Work ON, Not IN – Shift your mindset from being the operator to being the owner.

🚀 Download your free workbook at maxmyprofit.com.au/email – it's packed with practical, step-by-step tips to help you streamline your inbox and take back control of your time and headspace. Tap into the wisdom of seasoned business coaches Ben and David as they share real-world tools and systems that actually work. This episode is all about helping you work smarter, not harder—starting with your emails. Subscribe now for more no-fluff conversations that move your business forward, one smart decision at a time.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin take you back to where every great business begins: the foundations. Whether you're flying by the seat of your pants or already have a team in place, this episode is your reality check. Ben and David share what they've learned from decades of coaching thousands of business owners—most of whom skipped the vital first step. If you're constantly putting out fires, working insane hours, or feel like the business falls apart without you, this is a must-listen. Without these foundational pieces in place, any attempt to grow your business will likely just magnify the problems you're already facing. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction to the Max Your Business Podcast 02:19 – Why stepping back from your business feels impossible (but shouldn't be) 03:51 – What the Blueprint really is—and why it's not just another business model 06:28 – Would you build a house without a plan? Then why do it in your business? 08:34 – Why most owners are still stuck in the "job" stage, not the business stage 10:36 – What's inside the Foundation Checklist: 75 critical items to assess 16:30 – You can't grow if your base isn't stable (seriously, don't skip this step) 19:09 – The mindset shift that changes everything: From "I do it" to "Who will do it?" 24:03 – You don't need a second business—you need to fix the first one 28:10 – Long-term vision and strategic planning that actually works

Key Takeaways: Stop Flying Blind: You wouldn't build a house without blueprints—so don't build a business without a plan.

Foundations First: Before scaling or stepping back, you need systems, financial clarity, and role structure in place.

Mindset is Everything: Success starts when you stop doing everything and start thinking like a business owner.

Take Stock: Most business owners are still in the Foundation stage (and don't even realise it).

Clarity Brings Confidence: Know your break-even, cash flow, KPIs, and 90-day goals—not just "hope" it all works out.

🚀 Download the free Foundation Checklist at maxmyprofit.com.au/foundations and finally get your business set up to grow—with or without you. Want to know exactly where you're at in your business journey? Take the free Blueprint Quiz at maxmyprofit.com.au/blueprint and get instant clarity on what to focus on next. Tune in for a practical, no-fluff conversation that could completely shift the way you see your business. Whether you're starting out or levelling up, this episode is your invitation to build better—and smarter. Don't forget to subscribe for weekly tips that actually move the needle.

In this episode of the Max Your Business Podcast, hosts Ben Fewtrell and David Carlin unpack why having clear, powerful core values is essential—not just for internal culture, but for attracting the right people to your business. Hiring isn't just about filling roles anymore—it's about building a team that aligns with your mission, shares your values, and wants to grow with your business. Ben and David share practical tips, mindset shifts, and a real-world client case study that proves just how impactful your values can be when they're front and centre. If you're tired of saying, "It's hard to find good people," this episode will challenge you to look inward and start building a business people dream of working for.

Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction to the Max Your Business Podcast 02:30 – Why businesses struggle to find great people (hint: it's not just money) 04:27 – The difference between what people do and who they are 06:08 – Why values matter more than ever in hiring and retention 08:22 – A client story: how showcasing values brought in two quality team members without a job ad 10:43 – Bringing your core values to life—not just printing them out and forgetting them 14:21 – Real examples of meaningful, practical values you can apply 17:40 – A step-by-step walkthrough of the free values workbook 19:49 – Using values to call out poor behaviour and celebrate the good 22:42 – Your Next Steps

Key Takeaways: Attraction Starts from Within: People are drawn to businesses that know who they are and what they stand for.

Go Beyond Job Descriptions: Defining the type of person you want to work with is just as important as defining the role.

Lead with Purpose: Clear values set expectations, build trust, and shape culture.

Show, Don't Just Tell: Demonstrate your values through your branding, team culture, and social content.

Get the Team On Board: Co-creating values makes everyone more invested and aligned.

Create Accountability: Values give you a framework for feedback, leadership, and recognition. 🚀 Get your free Core Values Workbook at maxmyprofit.com.au/core and start building a business people love to work for. Whether you're hiring your first team member or growing a large crew, core values will help you attract, retain, and lead with confidence. Tune in to discover how to bring yours to life. Don't miss this episode—and don't forget to subscribe for more practical insights every week.