In this compelling episode of "Owner to Owner," host Michael Kerr dives deep with Dr. Craig West, the visionary founder of Succession Plus. Together, they unpick the transformative power of employee ownership programs and their profound impact on business value and succession planning. Discover how and why these strategies not only enhance business resilience but also foster community well-being. Dr. West shares invaluable insights on;

• How employee ownership programs can significantly enhance business value.
• Why early exit planning is crucial for business success.
• How employee share plans help retain key staff and improve business resilience.
• Why understanding business value is so essential for business owners.
• How succession planning benefits both businesses and communities.
• Employee ownership as a strategic exit option.
• Why employee share plans are gaining popularity in Australia

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction to Employee Ownership
• 00:00:00 Benefits of Employee Share Plans
• 00:00:00 Valuation and Exit Planning
• 00:00:00 Succession Planning in Australia
• 00:00:00 Community Impact and Business Resilience

Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.

Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.

Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.

[email protected]

www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

@Gabe Villarreal founder, business buyer and business growth adviser on scaling a liquor business to a million dollars in monthly revenue. We discuss strategies for over coming the practical challenges of scaling and exiting businesses, as well as the merits of 'holding' businesses rather than selling. 

He stresses the importance of imperfect action, learning from failures, and having options in business. 

Gabe also talks about his experiences in different industries and countries, and the significance of building a business with an exit strategy in mind.

Takeaways

• The importance of imperfect action over waiting for perfection.
• Learning from failures.
• Having options in business is more important than the exit itself.
• Building a business with an exit strategy in mind is essential.
• Cash flow management is critical for business survival.
• Acquiring an established business can be more efficient than starting from scratch.

@michael kerr 

@kerr capital 

Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.

Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.

Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.

[email protected]

www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

@Jacquie Riddell is an experienced #NFP leader and current chair of the @CBAA. The NFP or #ThirdSector is presenting huge challenges to leadership, employees and the many volunteers. Jacquie and host @Michael Kerr talk about;

• Financial sustainability
• Mergers & Acquisitions in the NFP sector
• The impact of overcrowding in the charity sector
• The need for adopting new and better business models and #tech to improve effectiveness
• Governance, collaboration, and the role of philanthropy
• The future of charities
• The phenomenon of 'accidental retirement' (read Jacquie's article on this here https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7334094500333531138/
• How professionals can transition from corporate roles to the not-for-profit sector

Some key takeaways

1. Not-for-profits need reliable cash, not just goodwill.
2. The charity sector is overcrowded with over 60,000 charities in Australia.
3. Passion alone is not enough; capability is essential.
4. Successful charities adopt business models similar to for-profits.
5. Governance is critical for the growth of not-for-profits.
6. Mergers and collaborations can enhance sustainability in the charity sector.
7. Philanthropy is a major opportunity for charities, especially during wealth transfer.
8. Post-COVID challenges include reduced revenue and volunteerism.
9. B Corps represent a growing trend in socially responsible business.

Chapters:

00:00 The Role of Not-for-Profits in Society

05:15 Challenges and Opportunities in the Charity Sector

10:08 Adopting Business Models in Not-for-Profits

15:06 Governance and Capability in Charities

20:25 Social Enterprises and Merging Opportunities

25:18 Collaborative Solutions in Community Broadcasting

27:04 The Importance of Sustainable Revenue

28:59 The Rise of B Corporations and Social Responsibility

31:11 Governance and Effective Leadership in Nonprofits

33:22 The Reality of Nonprofit Work and Organizational Capacity

35:36 Funding Challenges and Opportunities for Charities

37:54 Navigating Post-COVID Challenges in the Charity Sector

39:33 Accidental Retirement: A New Perspective on Career Transitions

41:10 Policy Recommendations for the Charity Sector

@kerrcapital

Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.

Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.

Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.

[email protected]

www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

@Michael Kerr welcomes @David Brudenell Executive Director from @decidr.ai discuss the challenges and opportunities for Australian SMEs in adopting AI strategies. 

They explore the National AI Readiness Index launched by Decidr,  the importance of system design, and how AI can transform small businesses. The conversation delves into the potential of AI to provide #SMEs with the equivalent of thousands of employees, the role of agentic platforms, and the need for businesses to adapt to the fast-paced AI landscape.

Takeaways:

• SMEs need a system built for action, not just belief
• Most businesses lack a plan to integrate AI effectively
• AI can provide SMEs with the equivalent of thousands of employees
• System design is crucial for successful AI integration
• AI is a horizontal technology that thrives on context
• Agentic platforms can unshackle businesses from administrative tasks
• AI can transform hospitality by handling bookings and customer service
• SMEs have the most to gain from AI but are at risk of being outpaced
• AI can help businesses scale and become more resilient

@kerrcapital

Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.

Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.

Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.

[email protected]

www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

@Michael Kerr speaks with @Vicki Likoudis from True North Buyers Advocates about the opportunities for tenants and buyers in favorable commercial property market cycle. Vicki sees the opportunity being available for another 6-9 months.

They discuss how small business owners can take advantage of this cycle to negotiate a better lease or acquire a commercial property.

It's a tenant's market right now, making negotiation crucial.

Vicki shares her extensive background in small business and her role as a buyer's advocate, emphasizing the importance of understanding the market cycle, negotiation strategies, and the emotional aspects of property acquisition. 

They discuss;

• How buying advocacy can help clients navigate property purchases and leases.
• The challenges and opportunities presented by the current market conditions
• The significance of community ownership
• Why Commercial property can be emotional for business owners.
• Government support is needed for small business funding and mental health
• Negotiation strategies can lead to significant savings for tenants

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Commercial Property Opportunities

01:01 Vicki's Background in Small Business

04:51 Understanding the Role of a Buyer's Advocate

08:13 Current Market Cycle for Commercial Property

11:10 Navigating Vacant Commercial Properties

13:59 Exploring Off-Market Opportunities

15:28 Consultative Approach to Property Acquisition

18:29 Benefits of Buying vs. Leasing Commercial Property

20:57 Landlord-Tenant Relationships and Negotiations

22:21 Negotiating Commercial Leases: A Win-Win Approach

25:09 Regional vs. Metro: Understanding Property Dynamics

28:06 Community Ownership: A New Model for Local Businesses

31:03 The Challenges of Community-Driven Business Models

33:33 The Importance of Local Businesses in Regional Economies

37:13 Government Support for Small Businesses: A Call to Action

Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.

Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.

Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.

[email protected]

www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

@Michael Kerr and @Farhan Rehman, co-founder of @Habibi Chicken,  a family business founded in #WaggaWagga. Farhan shares 'the journey' of creating, expanding, taking on Melbourne and building a community based, legacy business. 

We talk about;

• the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship
• the importance of community
• the drive to create opportunities in regional areas
• how diverse talent and cultural exchange contribute to building resilient businesses and vibrant communities
• regional entrepreneurship
• immigration policy and economic development, and leveraging these dynamics for sustainable growth
• resilience
• skills shortages
• creating a brand with purpose and legacy

@Habibi Chicken 

@kerrcapital

@rehmansheriffgroup

Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.

Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.

Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.

[email protected]

www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

@Michael Kerr welcomes @Stephen Greenwood, Global CEO of @Valloop, and @Hunter Page, Australian Director of Valloop, to discuss the transformative power of employee ownership. 

Valloop via its @platform is reshaping the landscape for SMEs, offering innovative solutions for business transitions, and empowering employees to become legitimate buyers.

We talk about;

1. The rise of employee ownership and its impact on SMEs
2. Why employee ownership is becoming a vital consideration for business owners worldwide
3. Valloop's unique platform and its role in facilitating business transitions
4. The benefits of employee ownership for businesses and local communities
5. The rise of employees as business buyers successfully acquire and manage businesses.
6. The need for better and wider education on Employee Ownership 

Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.

Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.

Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.

[email protected]

www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

@Phil Gregory from @EWaterSystems joins host @Michael Kerr. They discuss Phil's  journey from various jobs to creating a sustainable cleaning technology company tackling a global problem from Australia. This is valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and covers;

1. the importance of purpose and profit
2. raising capital and funding growth
3. technology licencing
4. navigating big competitors
5. the importance of exit planning, and
6. the significance of becoming a B Corp.

Takeaways

• How Phil Gregory's diverse career path led him to start eWater Systems.
• The importance of purpose and profit in business.
• How Phil's personal experiences with environmental issues fueled his passion for change.
• Building strong client relationships is crucial for business success.
• Navigating competition from established chemical companies is a significant challenge.
• Having a clear exit strategy can guide business growth and decisions.
• Becoming a B Corp aligns with eWater's mission of sustainability.
• The future of eWater Systems involves expanding awareness and market presence.
• Government regulations can create unnecessary challenges for small businesses.

It's a really informative listen on the what's and how's that have  propelled eWater Systems to the forefront of sustainable innovation.

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful episodes!

Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.

Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.

Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.

[email protected]

www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

Join @tracy fryer from @designstudioperth and @michael kerr as we explore the art of branding. Tracy shares her journey from a creative entrepreneur to a branding expert, offering valuable insights into how small businesses can craft a compelling brand identity. Learn about the essential elements of branding, the importance of understanding your target audience, and how a strong brand can drive business success.

Key Highlights:

1. Tracy's entrepreneurial journey and the birth of Design Studio Perth
2. The three pillars of effective branding: messaging, visual identity, and media. 
3. Real-world examples of branding success and challenges.

Takeaways:

Brand Identity as a North Star: A well-defined brand identity serves as a guiding compass for all marketing efforts, ensuring consistency and clarity in messaging and visuals.

Understanding the Ideal Client: Identifying and focusing on your ideal client is crucial for creating a brand that resonates and attracts the right audience, leading to more effective marketing strategies.

Beyond Logos: The Three Pillars of Branding: Successful branding encompasses messaging, visual identity, and media, all aligned to create a cohesive and compelling brand presence.

Branding as a Growth Catalyst: A strong brand not only differentiates a business in a crowded market but also adds value, enhancing business growth and sustainability.

Emotional Connection and Trust: Branding is about evoking emotions and building trust with your audience, which can lead to increased loyalty and long-term success.

Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.

Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.

Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.

[email protected]

www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au

@Michael Kerr and @Graham Stephen, founder of @BizVal Global, discuss #businessvaluation for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). With "85 to 95% of small businesses not sellable" we discuss the imperative for owners and advisers to understand business value today so they can begin proactively increasing it from tomorrow. 

Graham explains why forward-looking valuations are the key to helping business owners make informed decisions.

They explore Graham's journey into entrepreneurship and his fascinating global perspective on business valuation,

Takeaways

• Business valuation is often overlooked until a sale is imminent.
• Many business owners do not understand the true value of their business.
• Regular valuations can help business owners make informed decisions.
• Owner dependency is a critical factor in business valuation.
• Valuation should be a forward-looking process, not just historical.
• Understanding cash profits is more important than revenue figures.
• The compliance aspect of valuation can limit its effectiveness.
• Data accuracy is essential for credible valuations.
• Removing red tape can foster a better environment for SMEs.
• Access to funding is crucial for small business growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to BizVal Global and Its Purpose

02:32 Graham's Journey to Entrepreneurship

05:27 Understanding Business Valuation Importance

08:43 The 85% of Unsellable Businesses

12:13 Global Perspectives on Business Valuation

14:25 Choosing the Right Valuation Approach

18:43 The Valuation Process Explained

21:40 Key Valuation Drivers for Business Owners

24:39 The Role of Accountants in Valuation

27:36 Valuation Multiples and Their Implications

30:39 Understanding Business Valuation: Buyers and Multiples

34:30 The Impact of Business Age and Owner Dependency

38:33 Mitigating Risks: Insurance and Business Preparedness

39:28 Data Sources and Valuation Challenges

43:21 Valuation Process: A Comprehensive Approach

49:23 Valuation Gaps: Realistic Expectations and Deal Structures

52:10 Improving Australia's SME Landscape: Key Recommendations

@kerrcapital

Thanks for listening.  Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.

Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.

Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.

[email protected]

www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au