Start Build and Grow

In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Doug Field, former CEO of the East of England Co-op, about leadership and business growth.

Doug shares his accidental journey to becoming CEO, the importance of self-awareness, and strategies for developing leadership skills.

With an emphasis on long-term thinking and embracing diverse perspectives, we talk about building supportive teams and fostering a strong company culture as the foundations to creating a successful and sustainable, and growing business.

Doug offers practical advice for small business founders, including the value of feedback, effective delegation, and focusing on core business fundamentals like cash flow.

Wrapping up this series, we are reminded of the continuous, adaptive nature of leadership and the importance of growing both yourself and your team.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Introduction and Doug’s Background (00:02:10) Doug introduces himself, shares his leadership mission, and outlines his career path to becoming CEO. 

Accidental CEO and Early Career Lessons (00:04:31) Doug discusses his accidental rise to CEO, early career moves, and lessons learned from interviews and transitions. 

Leadership Development for Small Business Owners (00:06:17) Rob and Doug explore the evolution from founder to leader, and practical first steps for developing leadership skills. 

Sharpening the Saw & Long-Term Thinking (00:07:14) Doug emphasises the importance of stepping back, thinking long-term, and investing time in strategic reflection. 

Market Changes and Planning for the Future (00:08:48) Discussion on adapting to market changes, planning for the future, and focusing on what stays the same. 

Adapting to Change and Core Business Principles (00:10:30) Doug explains the value of focusing on unchanging customer needs and adapting business models accordingly. 

Transitioning into Leadership & Mindset Shifts (00:12:09) Challenges of becoming an accidental CEO, the importance of saying yes, and broadening leadership perspective. 

Seeking Support and Embracing Diversity of Thought (00:14:04) Doug shares how he sought support, learned from others, and the impact of cognitive diversity on leadership. 

Managing Overwhelm and Delegation Strategies (00:17:22) Advice for overwhelmed CEOs: self-awareness, strategic delegation, and building a supportive team. 

Knowing Yourself and the Power of Feedback (00:20:32) Doug discusses the importance of feedback, identifying blind spots, and building psychological safety for growth. 

Building and Leveraging a Professional Network (00:23:22) The value of cultivating a trusted network, finding mentors, and being strategic about professional relationships. 

Transferable Skills from Outside Business (00:27:15) Doug reflects on leadership lessons from coaching youth sports and the transferability of skills. 

Creating a Thriving Business Environment (00:29:13) Key conditions for a thriving business: culture, clarity of purpose, and the leader’s influence on environment. 

Vision, Values, and Culture by Design (00:32:08) Guidance on intentionally shaping company culture, making the right hires, and balancing perfectionism. 

Confidence, Self-Belief, and the Iceberg Analogy (00:34:39) Doug addresses imposter syndrome, the unseen work behind success, and the importance of support systems. 

Common Leadership Mistakes and Adaptability (00:35:47) Balancing perseverance and action, knowing when to adapt or persist, and the multifactorial nature of leadership. 

The Nighttime Car Journey Analogy (00:37:59) Doug uses a car journey analogy to illustrate leadership, adaptability, and navigating uncertainty. 

Role Modeling and Psychological Safety (00:39:50) How leaders can foster psychological safety and high performance by role modeling and admitting mistakes. 

Evolving Culture with Business Growth (00:42:34) The changing nature of culture as teams grow, and the ongoing journey of self-awareness for leaders. 

Team Growth vs. Self-Growth (00:43:18) Doug’s key advice: focus on growing the team to unlock greater impact, not just personal development. 

Don’t Forget the Basics: Cash Flow and Foundations (00:44:26) Final reminder to prioritize business fundamentals like cash flow and not chase every new trend. 

Sharpen the Saw: Top Tip for Small Business Owners (00:45:21) Doug’s top tip: invest in thinking time, personal growth, and strategic positioning for business success. 

Closing and Contact Information (00:45:53) Doug shares how listeners can connect with him via LinkedIn or the Business Growth Coaches Network. 

About Doug:

Doug Field OBE is on a mission to prove that high performance and human happiness can—and should—co-exist. After 16 years modernising the £400m, 3,500-employee, East of England Co-op, Doug now guides ambitious boards and CEOs to grow without sacrificing wellbeing.

As founder of a Suffolk MyBigSky peer group and a sought-after Non-Executive Director, he blends CFO rigour with CEO vision, turning complex challenges into clear, actionable wins. 

He distils complexity into clear, data-backed choices, drawing on 30+ years across PwC, Christie Group plc, and the Co-op to spot both hidden risks and overlooked opportunities. His £30 million funding wins prove he can speak banker, while an OBE for services to business shows he can speak to governments, too.

Beyond the boardroom, Doug’s impact stretches into the community as a volunteer director with Green Light Trust, Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, and other regional causes.

Expect sleeves-rolled-up insight, an enviable network, and enough humour to make even the toughest balance-sheet chat fun.

To learn more, head on over to:

www.startbuildgrow.co.uk

In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Colin Tapscott, author of two books Everyday Alchemy: Transforming Your Trash into Treasure and Everyday People, Everyday Leaders.

Colin is an EMCC-accredited Senior Practitioner Coach, leadership trainer, speaker, and one of the coaches at BGCN.

Colin and Rob discuss the importance of self-awareness, reflection, and values-driven leadership for business owners. Colin shares practical frameworks for turning challenges into growth opportunities, building resilience, and fostering supportive business communities.

Colin teaches us the power of pausing and reflecting as key habits for personal and professional development, drawing from his own experiences and insights from his book.

The conversation offers actionable advice for leaders seeking to navigate setbacks, manage stress, and lead with authenticity and emotional intelligence.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Introduction & Colin’s Background (00:02:05)

Colin introduces himself, his coaching work, and his background as a head teacher and founder of Everyday Leader.

The Role of Self-Awareness in Leadership (00:02:58)

Colin talks about the importance of self-awareness, honest reflection, and emotional intelligence for business resilience.

Recognising and Managing Pressure (00:03:50)

Colin and Rob explore the pressures founders face, the impact of stress, and the need to notice emotional and physical cues.

Building Deliberate Reflection into Busy Schedules (00:05:11)

Colin shares practical advice on scheduling intentional reflection moments and being proactive about self-check-ins.

Practical Reflection Techniques (00:06:17)

Suggestions for simple reflection practices, such as body/emotion check-ins and reviewing daily experiences.

Intentional and Spontaneous Self-Reflection (00:07:38)

How to use reminders and triggers for reflection, and the value of spontaneous self-awareness during the day.

Developing a Resilient Mindset: Everyday Alchemy (00:08:27)

Introduction to Colin’s “Everyday Alchemy” model for transforming setbacks into opportunities through the pause, reflect, and respond model.

The Three-Step Alchemy Process (00:09:29)

Detailed explanation of pausing, reflecting (using the four W’s), and responding thoughtfully in challenging moments.

The Four W’s for Reflection (00:10:27)

Breakdown of the four W’s: What is needed, Who do I want to be, Which values guide me, and Where’s the treasure.

Applying Values in Decision-Making (00:11:14)

How to identify and use core values to guide actions, especially in uncertain or high-pressure situations.

Quick Reflection and Verification Before Responding (00:12:56)

Colin’s tips for rapid self-checks and using holding phrases to buy time before responding under pressure.

Understanding and Identifying Personal Values (00:15:17)

Colin offers guidance on discovering personal values and their importance in shaping business and personal decisions.

Values in Business and Team Culture (00:16:30)

How values influence business culture, team alignment, and responses to clients or challenging situations.

Empathy, Understanding, and Helping Others Transform (00:19:17)

Colin explains importance of empathy, understanding others, and the concept of paying forward what you’ve learned.

The Three Parts of Becoming an Everyday Alchemist (00:19:36)

Overview of the three stages: in-the-moment response, reviewing afterwards, and apprenticing others.

The Four Steps of Turning Trash into Treasure (00:22:25)

Colin provides an overview of the four-step review process: revisit, review, reframe, and rebuild after challenging events.

Revisiting and Reviewing Challenging Moments (00:22:49)

How to analyse situations by considering people, place, politics, and philosophy for a deeper understanding.

Ego, Eos, Omnia: Perspectives in Reflection (00:25:17)

Colin describes how to use different perspectives (self, others, all) to review and balance responsibility in challenging situations.

Reframing and Rebuilding After Setbacks (00:27:57)

Identifying what’s within your control, setting focused goals, and using setbacks as learning opportunities.

Personal Story: Learning from Failure (00:31:55)

Colin shares his own experience of a professional setback and how he used reflection and support to grow from that.

Questions for Turning Setbacks into Growth (00:33:59)

Colin shares key reflective questions to extract learning and value from difficult experiences.

The Importance of Asking for Help (00:36:41)

Colin encourages seeking support and recognising the value of community during challenging times.

Final Advice: Self-Understanding and Reducing Pressure (00:38:07)

Reiterating the importance of knowing your purpose and values, and seeing challenges as learning moments.

One Key Tip: Pause and Reflect (00:39:05)

Colin’s top advice to regularly pause and reflect; to foster personal and professional growth.

Recommended Resources (00:40:11)

Book and podcast recommendations for further learning on reflection, resilience, and leadership.

How to Connect with Colin (00:40:59)

Information on how you can contact Colin and access his resources.

About Colin:

Colin Tapscott is an EMCC-accredited Senior Practitioner Coach and leadership trainer, speaker, and author, and one of the coaches with BGCN. He was a headteacher for 17 years in Hertfordshire and Suffolk and now runs Everyday Leader, a leadership coaching and training organisation established to Inspire, Equip, and Empower everyday people to see themselves as leaders. At the heart of Colin’s coaching, training, writing, and podcasts is a simple but powerful belief: everyone has the potential to lead. Through his one-to-one coaching, workshops, and leadership programmes, he equips everyday people with the confidence, tools, and mindset to bring out the best in themselves and those around them. Colin is the author of two inspiring books, ‘Everyday Alchemy: Transforming Your Trash into Treasure’ and ‘Everyday People, Everyday Leaders’, and a regular conference speaker. He has a TEDTalk on leadership for children and designs and runs the ‘Leadership Lounge’ podcast.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Everyday Alchemy – Transforming Trash to Treasure by Colin Tapscott

Everyday People, Everyday Leaders by Colin Tapscott

Path Through the Jungle by Professor Steve Peters (Mentioned as a follow-up to "The Chimp Paradox")

The Chimp Paradox by Professor Steve Peters (Referenced as the original book preceding "Path Through the Jungle")

Black Box Thinking by Matthew Syed (Recommended for its focus on reflection and learning from mistakes)

To learn more, head on over to:

www.everydayleader.co.uk

www.startbuildgrow.co.uk

In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Alan Nicholls, from the UK Government’s Money and Pensions Service and BGCN.

You'll hear a discussion on how to develop essential financial habits for business owners, with an emphasis on the importance of budgeting, separating personal and business finances, and building financial resilience.

Alan highlights practical tools (see below) for budgeting and tax support, and shares advice on managing cash flow, saving regularly, and preparing for tax obligations.

Our conversation encourages normalising discussions about money, seeking support, and using available resources to gain confidence and control over both personal and business finances.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Introduction and Guest Background (00:02:00) Alan introduces himself, his roles at the Money and Pensions Service and BCN, and his experience supporting SMEs.

The Importance of Thinking About Money from Day One (00:03:59) Discussion on why financial awareness is crucial from the start of a business, and the overlap with personal finances.

Developing Good Financial Habits (00:06:49) Advice on building regular habits for reviewing income and expenditure, and the importance of monthly check-ins.

Tools for Managing Finances (00:08:02) Introduction to the Money Helper website and its budgeting tools, especially for those who dislike spreadsheets.

Facing Financial Messiness and Avoidance (00:10:27) Normalising the messiness of finances, the dangers of avoidance, and the risks of turning to harmful solutions.

Understanding and Controlling Your Finances (00:13:00) Emphasis on feeling in control, exploring financial education, and using available support resources.

Separating Personal and Business Finances (00:14:36) Why separating accounts brings clarity, especially as businesses grow and tax requirements increase.

Practicalities of Separate Accounts for Sole Traders (00:17:05) Clarifying myths about bank accounts, and practical steps for sole traders to separate business finances.

Problems with Mixing Personal and Business Finances (00:19:25) Examples of complications and tax issues that arise from not keeping finances separate.

Cash Flow and Its Importance for Growth (00:21:53) Explanation of cash flow, its role in business growth, and the need for planning and resilience.

Budgeting and Building Financial Resilience (00:25:14) Mindset and strategies for budgeting, creating a savings pot, and planning for unexpected events.

Planning for Success and Future Growth (00:29:28) How to use surplus funds, set savings goals, and reinvest in business or personal financial resilience.

Self-Assessment and Tax Basics (00:32:31) When to start thinking about tax returns, thresholds, and the benefits of good record-keeping.

Avoiding Surprises and Building Financial Habits (00:34:35) Tips for staying on top of receipts, expenses, and making financial management a daily habit.

Guidance on Savings and Tax Percentages (00:38:27) Focus on developing a savings habit over fixed percentages, and the importance of understanding your own finances.

Accountability and Seeking Support (00:40:43) Encouragement to seek accountability, use available coaching, and not to go it alone.

Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways (00:41:19) Alan’s advice: normalise money conversations, use Money Helper, and learn from others’ experiences.

Where to Find Further Support (00:45:01) Alan shares where listeners can connect with him and find more resources.

About Alan:

Alan Nicholls FRSA is the Regional Partnerships Manager for the East of England at the Money and Pensions Service, a government-backed organization dedicated to improving financial wellbeing. With over 14 years at Lloyds Banking Group, he led initiatives on financial inclusion, education, and support for those in financial difficulty. An executive coach and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Alan now champions resilience and confidence in personal finance.

Alan is also a certified business coach at the Business Growth Coaches Network, where he supports small business leaders and individuals with executive, team, and personal development. His cross-sector experience spans finance, retail, third sector, and holistic health.

With deep insight from both MoneyHelper and his coaching practice, Alan brings a unique blend of clarity, empathy, and practical experience. His work connects everyday financial empowerment with small business growth, making him the ideal guide for this 30‑minute episode aimed at new self-employed listeners.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Budget Planner tool: https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/everyday-money/budgeting/budget-planner

• Self-employment tax and NI guide: https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/work/self-employment/tax-and-national-insurance-when-youre-self-employed

• Planning for retirement when self-employed: https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/pensions-and-retirement/pension-basics/self-employed-pensions

• How to budget on an irregular income: https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/everyday-money/budgeting/how-to-budget-for-an-irregular-income

To learn more, head on over to:

www.startbuildgrow.co.uk

In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Julie Murray, a marketing expert and business coach.

Julie shares practical advice on building a strong brand for small businesses, highlighting the importance of defining a core purpose or "why" before focusing on logos or campaigns.

Julie reveals how brand personality, customer feedback, and founder involvement can shape brand success. Julie also explores the impact of AI on marketing, strategies for overcoming resistance to self-promotion, and the value of clear goals and consistent messaging to help you grow your business.

Listen out for Julie's actionable tips for entrepreneurs, founders, and owners alike, looking to create and grow meaningful brands, products, services, and businesses.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Julie’s Background and Experience (00:01:56) Julie shares her marketing career, corporate roles, and transition to running her own agency and coaching business.

The Importance of Defining Your “Why” (00:04:38) Julie explains why small businesses must clarify their core purpose before focusing on logos and marketing materials.

Uncovering Brand Essence Through Personal Stories (00:06:26) Julie shares how personal highs and lows help reveal authentic brand purpose and target audience.

Branding Is More Than a Logo (00:07:31) Julie suggests that branding goes beyond visual identity and can be revisited at any stage of business.

Rebranding and Brand Audits (00:08:16) Julie advises on reviewing brand relevance, customer feedback, and standing out in the market.

Brand Personality and Customer Feedback (00:09:52) The conversation covers developing a brand personality and using customer feedback to differentiate and improve.

Scaling Brand Culture and Consistency (00:12:03) Julie highlights the importance of brand culture, founder influence, and consistency as businesses grow.

Involving Team and Customers in Branding (00:12:58) Julie suggests involving employees, customers, and partners in shaping and evolving the brand.

Using Customer Feedback as Marketing Content (00:13:52) Julie explains how to collect, use, and share customer feedback and testimonials as marketing material.

Defining Brand by What It Isn’t (00:15:15) Julie recommends clarifying brand identity by listing what the business is not, to sharpen focus.

Finding Brand Uniqueness and Energy (00:17:24) Julie discusses following passion and energy to discover a brand’s unique voice and resonance.

Case Study: The Power of “Why” in Positioning (00:17:57) Julie shares a story about a home care business, illustrating how uncovering the founder’s “why” transformed the brand.

Aligning Passion, Skills, and Market Need (00:21:25) Julie introduces the “IKIGAI” model—success comes from combining passion, expertise, and market demand: what you are good at and what people will pay for.

Breakthroughs in Brand Clarity (00:22:18) Julie describes how clients reach clarity through questioning, reflection, and external feedback.

Balancing Passion and Market Demand (00:23:56) Julie addresses the challenge of when passion doesn’t align with what people will pay for, and the need for honest assessment.

The Impact of AI on Marketing and Branding (00:25:37) Julie discusses AI as a game-changer, its uses in branding, content creation, and business efficiency.

AI for Customer Feedback and Automation (00:27:29) Julie gives examples of AI automating feedback, lesson planning, and marking, freeing up time for value-added work.

Overcoming Resistance to Marketing and AI (00:29:22) Julie addresses common resistance to marketing and AI, and offers advice for those hesitant to promote themselves.

DIY Marketing for Startups (00:31:57) Julie provides practical tips for startups to market themselves cost-effectively and build brand awareness.

The Importance of Brand Strategy and Consistency (00:32:55) Julie stresses having a clear brand DNA, strategy, and consistent messaging for effective marketing.

Encouragement to Be Bold and Believe (00:33:49) Julie encourages business owners to be bold, believe in themselves, and experiment with marketing approaches.

Final Tips: Core Questions and Planning for Growth (00:35:12) Julie summarises key branding questions and advises setting measurable growth targets and planning backwards.

How to Connect with Julie (00:36:13) Julie shares her contact details for listeners to reach out for further advice or coaching.

About Julie:

Julie Murray is an award-winning Marketing Director, Business & Leadership Coach. Julie is a dynamic Marketing Director with over two decades of experience delivering transformational change. Her steadfast positivity and innovative mindset mean no challenge is too big. An expert in branding, strategic marketing, and campaign planning, Julie is also a sought-after speaker at industry events and appeared on BBC Breakfast for Royal Mail.

Julie is also an ICF (International Coaching Federation) qualified coach, passionate about unlocking potential. She empowers individuals and teams to grow through bespoke leadership development programmes, guiding those at career crossroads or seeking new opportunities.

Julie also works with Suffolk New College to accredit individuals with the Institute of Leadership Management (ILM) Level 3 and Level 4 Diploma and is also trained in delivering Clarity 4D profiling insight. From senior leaders and long-tenured professionals to those just starting to lead a team, Julie helps refresh and reimagine businesses and careers with her ethos: Be bold, be brilliant, and believe you can.

To learn more, head on over to:

www.startbuildgrow.co.uk

In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Carl Day, an experienced entrepreneur in freight and logistics.

Carl shares candid insights from his career spanning over three decades, discussing the challenges of leadership, the loneliness of success, and the importance of having a supportive network.

He reflects on lessons learned from over-expansion and cash flow crises, raising awareness that financial discipline, honest feedback, and keeping an eye out for red flags are critical to sustainable growth.

Carl also highlights the need for work-life balance, the value of a strong team, and the importance of continuous learning for long-term business success.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Carl’s Career Journey (00:02:10) Carl shares his background, entry into logistics, and early career progression.

Entrepreneurial Expansion and Reality Check (00:03:05) Carl describes rapid business growth, overexpansion, and the tough period that followed.

The Loneliness of Leadership (00:05:02) Discussion on how business success can lead to increased loneliness and responsibility for leaders.

Transition from Team Member to Leader (00:05:53) Carl explains the shift from being part of a team to leading and the challenges of honest feedback.

Importance of Community and Support (00:08:13) Carl emphasises finding a peer community or support network to share challenges and avoid isolation.

Setbacks and Over-stretching the Business (00:10:01) Carl recounts a specific instance of over-expansion, cash flow issues, and lessons learned about cautious growth.

Balancing Ambition and Risk (00:13:25) Exploring the tension between entrepreneurial risk-taking and the dangers of overconfidence.

Red Flags and Sounding Boards (00:14:47) Carl discusses the importance of having people who challenge your decisions to avoid overconfidence.

Sustainable Growth and Financial Controls (00:16:27) Focus on the need for margin over turnover, cash flow management, and avoiding “busy fool” syndrome.

Building the Right Team (00:19:40) Advice on surrounding yourself with people who challenge you and ensuring honest, regular team discussions.

Key Business Metrics and Decision-Making (00:21:33) Carl highlights the importance of monitoring financial health, cash flow, and analysing new opportunities.

Personal Sanity and Work-Life Balance (00:23:32) Carl shares how he maintains personal well-being, the importance of outside interests, and lessons from burnout.

Non-Negotiables for Business and Life (00:26:16) Carl outlines essential boundaries: personal interests outside work and real-time business financial dashboards.

Delegation, Trust, and Leadership (00:28:01) Discussion on the importance of delegation, trusting your team, and distinguishing leadership from management.

Vision, Success, and Pitfalls (00:30:38) Carl reflects on his visionary strengths, the dangers of overconfidence, and the need for balance.

Continuous Learning and Embracing Technology (00:33:32) Carl recommends learning from others, embracing technology, and maintaining a growth mindset.

Top Tips for Avoiding Burnout and Overstretch (00:36:28) Carl’s final advice: have a sounding board and always keep a close eye on the business’s financial health.

How to Connect with Carl (00:37:25) Carl shares where listeners can find him online and his current ventures.

About Carl:

Carl Day has worked in the supply chain and logistics sector for over 35 years. He is a pioneer in the field of Fourth Party Logistics (4PL) and introduced the term 'Control Tower Logistics'. He has worked for market-leading shipping lines and freight forwarders focussed on the food, beverage, alcohol, and high-value FMCG sectors. He has built a wealth of knowledge regarding customs formalities and has been recognised on multiple occasions with industry awards for service excellence. Carl earned an MBA focused on sustainability in logistics. He has served for several years as the chairman of the WSTA Logistics Group, is a member of the Bonded Warehouse Keepers Association, as well as a fellow of the British Institute of Freight professionals.

Carl is passionate about sharing his knowledge and expertise with others. He has founded Charlie Delta Ltd to provide consultancy services and has also written a book as a comprehensive resource for anyone who wants to learn more about 3PL warehousing and distribution in the food, beverage, and high-value FMCG sectors.

Carl lives in Ipswich (UK) with his wife Inga and his dog Donald, an English bulldog with a mind of his own.

To learn more, head on over to:

www.startbuildgrow.co.uk

How can you develop a unique brand personality that stands out?

In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Richard Liverman about effective marketing strategies for startups and small businesses.

Richard discusses building a unique brand personality through curiosity and playfulness with customers. He explains that branding goes beyond logos, encompassing values, purpose, and customer experience.

Richard introduces the Johari Window model as a way of uncovering brand “blind spots”. He also highlights the importance of storytelling—encouraging businesses to be “the show, not the commercial.”

You'll hear practical tips on standing out, communicating your purpose, and ways to practice storytelling. Hear how to embrace authenticity and continuous improvement with branding your growing business.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Introduction & The Fear of Being Boring (00:02:00) Rob welcomes Richard and introduces the challenge of startups fearing generic, boring marketing.

Curiosity and Playfulness in Branding (00:02:46) Richard suggests staying curious and playful, using examples from his experiences and brand evolution.

Branding Beyond the Logo (00:05:44) Discussion on branding as more than just a logo—it's about values, purpose, and the holistic customer experience.

Identifying Your Brand’s Unique Value (00:07:52) Exploring how business owners can discover their unique strengths and “magic” using customer feedback and the Johari Window model.

Features vs. Benefits & The Power of Ordinary (00:10:48) Distinguishing between features and benefits, and realising how your ordinary can be extraordinary to others.

Be the Show, Not the Commercial (00:12:43) Richard explains the importance of storytelling and showing behind-the-scenes, rather than just selling.

Storytelling in Business (00:15:57) Introduction to storytelling as a business tool, with references to Jack Daniels and Donald Miller’s StoryBrand.

Positioning Your Customer as the Hero (00:16:50) Using Star Wars analogies, Richard explains why businesses should be the guide (Obi-Wan), not the hero (Luke).

Practical Storytelling Tips & The Value of Practice (00:20:06) Advice on practicing storytelling, embracing imperfection, and learning through repetition.

Authenticity and Off-the-Cuff Content (00:23:33) Discussing how spontaneous, authentic content often resonates more than polished, rehearsed material.

Standing Out & Personal Branding (00:24:48) Richard shares his approach to standing out, being authentic, and not being afraid to show personality.

Overcoming Fear and Embracing Individuality (00:28:08) Encouragement to break free from self-imposed constraints and embrace what makes your business unique.

Permission to Fail & Redefining Success (00:30:54) Richard discusses learning from failure, giving yourself permission to fail, and defining personal success factors.

Shifting Focus from Self to Customer (00:33:47) Advice on reducing fear by focusing on purpose, vision, and the people you serve.

How to Be Unforgettable (00:35:37) Tips for being memorable: start with why, use body language and tone, and focus on delivery, not just words.

Final Thoughts on Storytelling and Brand Freedom (00:39:13) Encouragement to practice storytelling, seek feedback, and enjoy the freedom of running your own business.

Building Scaffolding & Support Networks (00:43:02) The importance of learning from diverse sources, building support networks, and seeking help to grow.

Where to Connect (00:45:55) Richard shares where listeners can connect with him online.

About Richard:

Richard has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world. As his career progressed, he began to realise how many talented professionals struggled to stand out in today's crowded marketplace. They had incredible skills but couldn't articulate what made them unique or valuable. Since establishing Richer Solutions in 2020, he now helps clients to tell their own authentic stories and how to build a powerful personal brand. Through coaching and branding consultancy, he transforms how they present themselves—both online and in person.

His clients don't just become more visible; they become more confident, strategic, and successful. They stop blending in and start standing out as the best version of themselves. Richard brings the amazing out of everyone he works with. 

Connect with Richard:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/richersolutions/ 

https://www.instagram.com/richer_solutions_global/

https://www.youtube.com/@richersolutions3785 

Resource mentioned in this episode:

[Video] Simon Sinek Start with Why

To learn more, head on over to:

www.startbuildgrow.co.uk

In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Umashankar V D, an expert in leadership and globalisation.

Umashanker shares his journey from sales engineer to managing multinational subsidiaries and offers practical advice on expanding your business internationally.

We discuss the definition of a global company, the benefits and challenges of globalisation, market research, leadership, financial resilience, cultural sensitivity, regulatory issues, and entry strategies.

Umashanker shares with us the importance of understanding local markets, building resilient teams, and leveraging global best practices, providing valuable insights for entrepreneurs, founders, and owners who are considering international growth.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Umashanker’s Career Journey (00:02:00)

Umashanker shares his background, entrepreneurial experience, and transition from the corporate world.

Entry into Global Companies (00:04:06)

Describes joining multinational corporations, managing subsidiaries, and handling mergers and acquisitions.

Defining Globalisation and Global Companies (00:05:46)

Umashanker explains the evolution of globalisation, types of global companies, and the impact of technology on global reach.

First Global Business Experience (00:07:43)

Umashanker recounts initial exposure to global operations, sourcing components, and pitching a unique market entry strategy.

Benefits and Reasons for Globalisation (00:11:50)

Umashanker and Rob discuss economic factors and the strategic advantages of expanding into international markets.

Readiness for Global Expansion (00:14:25)

Umashanker outlines how entrepreneurs can assess readiness, with consideration to financial resilience and leadership delegation.

Key Considerations and Challenges in Going Global (00:16:26)

Umashanker discusses market research, cost structures, supply chain, regulations, and potential impediments in new markets.

Competitive Advantages of Globalisation (00:22:14)

Rob and Umashanker explore economies of scale, centralisation, technology adaptation, and operational efficiencies from international expansion.

Entry Strategies for International Markets (00:25:31)

Umashanker details various entry methods: exporting, licensing, partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, joint ventures, and fully owned subsidiaries.

Cultural and Leadership Challenges (00:29:53)

Umashanker highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity, leadership adaptation, and building trust in diverse environments.

Non-Financial Rewards of Globalisation (00:32:19)

Umashanker describes to Rob the benefits of technology, transferring knowledge, best practices exchange, brand reputation, and resilience through diversification.

Final Advice and Resources (00:34:28)

Umashanker offers encouragement, book recommendations, and a top tip: to thoroughly understand the target market before globalising.

Contact Information and Closing (00:37:08)

Hear how to connect with Umashanker on LinkedIn

About Umashanker:

Umashanker V D has had over 35 years of operational experience in the automotive industry and a history of award-winning performance in articulating a vision, strategising businesses, and infrastructure development from the ground up for long-term success. Umashanker is internationally savvy, with expertise in introducing new technologies, restructuring businesses, and a proven capability in crisis management. With large-scale enterprise work experience, coupled with entrepreneurial skills, Umashanker brings perspectives on balancing profitable growth versus investment with an emphasis on economic value creation. He's the winner of two innovation awards from BorgWarner and has received appreciation from employees for providing valuable leadership during a crisis.

Books mentioned in this episode:

• The Borderless World: Power and Strategy in the Interlinked Economy by Kenichi Omae
• Partnering by Jean Oelwang

Authors mentioned in this episode:

•  Ram Charan

To learn more, head on over to:

www.startbuildgrow.co.uk

In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Scott Russell, a serial entrepreneur with 34 years of experience founding, growing, and selling businesses.

Scott shares his journey from childhood ventures to building national companies, highlighting the importance of delegating, building strong teams, and fostering authentic, mission-driven cultures towards growing a business.

He discusses lessons learned from both successes and failures, the value of empowering others through equity, and the founder’s unique role.

Scott also highlights his social impact work in coffee supply chains. He offers practical advice for entrepreneurs and founders: reminding us to focus on innovation through improvement, prioritise getting the organisational culture right, and to approach business as a long-term and rewarding journey.

In this episode you'll learn:

Introduction & Scott’s Background (00:02:00) Scott introduces himself, shares his entrepreneurial background, and discusses his family’s influence on his business mindset.

Early Entrepreneurial Lessons (00:03:08) Scott describes learning business basics as a child, selling goods, and being a disruptive thinker in school.

Philosophy on Growing Businesses (00:04:34) Scott explains his approach to business as a vehicle for freedom, the importance of setting achievable goals, and replacing himself early.

Delegation & Replacing Yourself (00:05:22) Scott discusses the value of stepping back, building leadership teams, and avoiding micromanagement to enable business growth.

First Hire & Early Business Story (00:07:19) Scott shares a story from age 16 about leveraging others’ skills, scaling a jewellery repair business, and planning for business exits.

Mindset Shifts for Founders (00:10:34) Scott talks about coaching founders to delegate, reverse engineering goals, and the evolutionary process of changing mindsets.

Building Company Culture (00:13:49) Scott explains how to instill an ambitious, positive culture, using practical examples such as charity days and empowering employees.

Opportunity vs. Vision in New Ventures (00:17:28) Scott describes how he identifies business opportunities, applies past learnings, and thinks about new ideas and teams.

Hiring & Attracting Talent (00:21:00) Scott discusses the importance of making roles attractive, being mission-led, and how good companies naturally attract good people.

Building Networks & Reputation (00:24:53) Scott shares how reputation, storytelling, and handling failures shape his network and attract collaborators.

Biggest Challenges in Business (00:27:43) Scott reflects on his discomfort with raising external capital, preferring organic growth, and the challenges that come with it.

Proudest Successes & Legacy (00:29:42) Scott highlights the lasting culture in his companies and the impact of his coffee business’s social initiatives.

Letting Go & Equity Sharing (00:33:16) Scott explains when and how he hands over operational control, the importance of equity sharing, and empowering key hires.

Knowing When to Quit an Idea (00:35:42) Scott shares a story about ending a business that lacked traction and how to recognise when to move on.

Final Advice for Entrepreneurs (00:37:04) Scott shares how enjoying the journey, being realistic, and knowing when to pull the plug can be key parts of the growth mindset.

Top Tip for Business Growth (00:38:28) Scott advises improving on existing ideas rather than reinventing the wheel, and learning from industry leaders.

What’s Next for Scott? (00:39:23) Scott shares his personal goal of running a vineyard in France, focusing on enjoyment and new ventures, and hints at possibly writing a book.

How to Connect with Scott (00:40:26) Scott provides details of how to connect with him.

About Scott:

Scott Russell is a Suffolk entrepreneur and business leader recognised for his innovation, community commitment, and contribution to the regional economy. Over his career, he has founded and grown multiple ventures, helping to put Suffolk on the map as a hub for enterprise. Scott is passionate about ethical business, social responsibility, and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs through mentoring, public speaking, and education initiatives.

In 2018, his achievements were formally acknowledged when the University of Suffolk awarded him an Honorary Fellowship, celebrating both his business success and his dedication to the wider community. Beyond his ventures, Scott has been named among Grant Thornton’s Top 100 Influential Business Leaders and honoured as the East Anglian Daily Times Business Person of the Year. Today, he continues to champion purposeful enterprise, sustainability, and opportunities for young people across the county and beyond.

To learn more, head on over to:

www.startbuildgrow.co.uk

In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Mandeep Birdy.

With extensive experience in humanitarian work and social impact, and as a key figure behind the Start, Build, and Grow app, Mandeep shares her journey developing the app, highlighting some of its features and benefits.

Mandeep shares her passion for storytelling in marketing and the unique advantages of apps over traditional websites. She recounts inspiring stories, including helping a retired priest maintain community engagement through an app.

Our conversation today underscores the importance of clear brand values, the democratisation of app development, and fostering genuine connections with your customer base and community through digital tools.

In this episode you'll learn:

Mandeep's Background (00:02:24)

Mandeep shares her 20-year experience in humanitarian work and community development, emphasising her marketing strengths.

The Journey into Marketing (00:03:43)

Mandeep discusses her transition from community magazine production to various marketing roles, highlighting her creative approach.

The Importance of Storytelling (00:04:05)

She emphasizes the significance of storytelling in marketing to showcase impactful work in humanitarian efforts.

The Start Build and Grow App (00:06:55)

Rob inquires about Mandeep's involvement with the Start Build and Grow app and its developmental journey.

Creating the App (00:07:05)

Mandeep recounts her experience as a participant and her motivation to create an app for community engagement.

Support from the Start Build and Grow Team (00:09:04)

She appreciates the supportive leadership team and their commitment to participant success in the program.

Features of the App (00:11:59)

Mandeep outlines the app's features, including a glossary, resource library, and participant directory for enhanced engagement.

Apps vs. Websites (00:14:14)

Mandeep discusses the advantages of apps over websites in fostering direct communication and user engagement.

Engagement Through Push Notifications (00:15:28)

She explains how push notifications enhance engagement by delivering targeted messages to interested users.

Community and Engagement Tools (00:17:36)

Rob reflects on the app's interactive features that support users in their business journey and community building.

Apps in the Bigger Ecosystem (00:19:23)

Mandeep begins to share insights on how apps integrate into broader marketing and business strategies.

The Priest's Story (00:19:46)

Mandeep shares a story about a retired priest's inclusive sermons and his struggle with the church hierarchy.

The Need for an App (00:21:06)

The priest seeks a solution to maintain connection with his congregation after retirement, exploring various platforms.

Successful App Launch (00:22:01)

Mandeep demonstrates the app to the priest, leading to a successful launch that serves his community's needs.

Community Engagement through Apps (00:23:05)

Mandeep highlights the importance of apps in community engagement, drawing parallels with the Start Build Grow app.

Cost of App Development (00:25:10)

Rob questions the affordability of app development for startups compared to past high costs.

No-Code Solutions (00:26:14)

Mandeep discusses the benefits of no-code solutions, making app development more accessible and affordable for clients.

Exploring Digital Marketing (00:31:22)

Rob and Mandeep discuss the evolution of digital marketing, emphasizing its accessibility and simplicity.

Funding Options for Apps (00:31:49)

Mandeep mentions various financial support options available for those looking to build apps, including grants.

Common Challenges in Marketing (00:32:44)

Mandeep identifies common struggles clients face in digital marketing and emphasizes the importance of clarity in messaging.

Strategic Marketing Platforms (00:35:38)

Mandeep explains the importance of selecting the right platforms for marketing and engaging with the target audience effectively.

Understanding Brand Value vs. Awareness (00:36:37)

Discussion on the importance of brand value over mere brand awareness for effective marketing.

The McDonald's Analogy (00:37:21)

Mandeep uses McDonald's to illustrate the disconnect between brand awareness and audience values.

Clarifying Purpose in Coaching (00:39:06)

Mandeep shares a coaching experience focused on discovering and clarifying personal purpose.

Failed Purpose and Its Benefits (00:40:51)

Exploration of how failed purposes can provide valuable insights and lead to personal rediscovery.

Intimate Networking Groups (00:43:15)

Mandeep discusses the creation of Elevation Networks for purpose-driven professionals seeking support.

The Importance of Human Connections (00:45:31)

The significance of fostering human connections in networking to facilitate meaningful conversations.

Helping Others Write Their Stories (00:48:28)

Mandeep shares her experience assisting others in writing books to amplify their impactful stories.

Top Tips for Small Business Owners (00:53:00)

Advice on being creative while remaining smart about investments and managing expectations in business.

Wisdom in Applied Knowledge (00:54:36)

Mandeep shares insights from her experience, emphasizing the value of practical knowledge in business journeys.

Connecting on LinkedIn (00:55:06)

Mandeep suggests LinkedIn as the best platform to connect.

About Mandeep:

With over 20 years of marketing and coaching, Mandeep’s original background involved supporting humanitarian and charitable activities; from organisations that investigate abuse in the field of mental health, to preparing volunteers to set up emergency shelters and orphanages amid the earthquake that shattered Haiti in 2010. Mandeep continues to support such causes, while also helping businesses to understand and navigate marketing.

Over these 20 years, Mandeep noticed how volunteers and clients alike had one thing in common; they wanted to help.

Connect with Mandeep on LinkedIn

To learn more head on over to:

www.startbuildgrow.co.uk

In this podcast episode, host Rob Lawrence interviews Michael Clerk, who shares his experience as a coach and mentor to businesses, supporting them with their branding, marketing, and storytelling.

In this conversation, Michael highlights the importance of marketing for business growth, focusing on the "know, like, and trust" framework, storytelling, and maintaining an online presence.

Michael shares with us the significance of understanding your target audience, conducting market research, and building genuine relationships through effective branding and customer service.

He also discusses practical strategies for small business owners to enhance their marketing efforts to grow their businesses.

In this episode you'll learn:

Transition to Coaching (00:02:05)

After retiring briefly, Michael decided to use his knowledge to help startup businesses overcome challenges.

Importance of Marketing (00:04:41)

Michael emphasises that without paying customers, businesses cannot thrive, highlighting the need for effective marketing strategies.

Know, Like, and Trust Framework (00:05:09)

Michael introduces the concept that customers buy from those they know, like, and trust: outlining its significance in marketing.

Target Market Clarity (00:06:45)

Michael discusses the importance of clearly identifying and understanding your target market to effectively address their needs.

Telling Compelling Stories (00:08:15)

He encourages businesses to focus on storytelling, emphasising benefits over features to engage customers.

Real-World Case Study (00:09:35)

Michael shares a success story of a client who overcame micromanagement issues to significantly grow their business.

The Why Behind Businesses (00:13:29)

He discusses the importance of sharing personal stories and motivations behind a business to connect with potential clients.

The Necessity of Online Presence (00:14:57)

Michael explains the risks of not being online and the benefits of digital marketing for expanding business reach.

Using Google Business Profile and SEO (00:17:23)

Discusses the importance of Google Business Profile and effective SEO for online visibility.

Doing Online Marketing Properly (00:18:17)

Explains the minimum requirements for establishing a credible online presence.

AIDA Framework in Marketing (00:18:38)

Introduces the AIDA framework: Attract, Interest, Desire, Action for effective online marketing strategies.

Understanding Your Target Audience (00:19:31)

Michael emphasises the importance of knowing your audience and when they are online.

Researching Audience Groups (00:20:19)

Suggests researching groups and chat rooms to understand audience needs and preferences.

SWOT Analysis in Marketing (00:22:00)

Explains how to use SWOT analysis to assess business strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

Conducting Market Research (00:23:23)

Highlights the importance of market research through networking and competitor analysis.

Engaging in Online Communities (00:24:15)

Discusses how to engage with online groups without being overly promotional.

Building Empathy and Trust (00:25:50)

Stresses the significance of empathy in developing relationships and trust with potential customers.

Networking as a Spider's Web (00:28:41)

Michael describes networking as interconnected relationships that can expand your reach.

Patience in Relationship Building (00:31:55)

Michael shares the need for patience in developing relationships and the importance of saying no.

Storytelling in Marketing (00:33:55)

Discussion on the importance of storytelling in marketing and building awareness through personal narratives.

Branding and Its Importance (00:35:24)

Exploration of branding's role in distinguishing businesses and the significance of brand values.

Visual Elements of Branding (00:36:25)

Insights on how logos, straplines, and colour schemes contribute to brand identity and consistency.

Psychology of Colours in Marketing (00:37:29)

Michael offers an explanation of colour associations and their psychological impact on consumer perception and branding.

The Rule of Three in Branding (00:38:33)

Discussion on the effectiveness of using three-word straplines for memory retention and recognition.

Emotional vs. Rational Messaging (00:39:51)

Contrast between emotional and rational marketing messages and their influence on consumer behaviour.

Starting Out with Branding (00:42:04)

Advice for new business founders on budget-friendly branding strategies and leveraging skills.

Flexibility and Market Adaptation (00:45:53)

Importance of being adaptable and responsive to changing market conditions and consumer needs.

Customer Service as a Key Element (00:47:57)

Emphasis on the significance of excellent customer service for repeat business and referrals.

Michael’s Top Tip for Small Business Growth (00:50:24)

Encouragement to conduct market research to identify gaps and understand customer needs.

About Michael:

Since 2015, has been coaching business owners from pre-start-up to established businesses, enabling them to achieve robust, profitable business growth, ensuring the skills and attributes learned are successfully instilled.

Building on his extensive business management experience acquired across multiple disciplines and sectors, including engineering and management, Michael has developed a time-proven coaching tool kit.

Michael helps businesses gain clarity of their marketing objectives, towards improved financial results, risk management, resilience, and enhanced confidence, with management skills.

As well as providing coaching support for his clients, Michael delivers a range of business management workshops and masterclasses.

Michael provides voluntary business mentoring with the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, the King’s Trust, and RBS Digital Boost, supporting entrepreneurs at various stages of their business growth journey.

Michael blogs regularly and now has over 300 posts on his website.

To learn more head on over to:

www.startbuildgrow.co.uk