The Growth Equation

On this episode of The Growth Equation, I sit down with Steve Jaenke from Digimark to talk about what it really takes to push past your comfort zone. His journey is a powerful one—he started in nursing before realizing his true passion was in building websites, which led him to found a successful SEO agency. But it wasn't easy. Steve gets real about the challenges, from battling low-cost freelancers to nearly losing his entire business just five years ago.

So how did he turn it around? Steve breaks down exactly how he rebuilt Digimark by creating a rock-solid foundation of clear expectations, robust training, and a culture of accountability. We get into the massive lessons he learned about leadership, the importance of dropping your ego, and the undeniable truth that your business can only grow as much as you do personally.

We also look at how AI is changing the game in digital marketing, and Steve offers practical advice and his must-read book recommendations for any business owner. If you want a real story of resilience and actionable wisdom for your own journey, you need to listen to this. You can connect with Steve directly at the links below.

Connect with Steve:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-jaenke/?originalSubdomain=au 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steve.jaenke/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steve.jaenke/ 

Digimark: https://www.digimark.com.au/ 

Connect with us. 👇

Evolve To Grow: https://m.mtrbio.com/evolve-to-grow 

Ever heard a story that just stops you in your tracks? This is one of them.

I sat down with Dan Nikas of Elite Brands. His journey is anything but ordinary. Imagine spending 17 years in policing, over a decade as a homicide detective. Then, at just 36, you're medically retired. For many, that's the end of a chapter. For Dan, it was the start of a new one. He turned to digital marketing and discovered his greatest asset wasn't a new skill, but an old one: building trust and truly understanding people.

Dan gets real about launching his first e-commerce brand, Gearbunch.com, and the lessons learned. But what truly stands out is his core philosophy: "help first." It’s the bedrock of his agency, Elite Brands. We explore why he insists on testing every marketing strategy on his own dime, with his own brand, before a client ever sees it. His flat-fee model isn't a gimmick; it’s proof he’s committed to doing right by people.

This conversation is a masterclass on career pivots, the power of giving without expectation, and how genuine relationships are the real bottom line in any business.

Connect with Dan and learn more about Elite Brands. 👇

Website: elitebrands.org 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-nikas-10379665/?originalSubdomain=au 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elite_brands_with_dan_nikas/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elitebrandswithdannikas/

Connect with us. 👇

Evolve To Grow: https://m.mtrbio.com/evolve-to-grow

Ready to ignite your entrepreneurial spark? This episode of The Growth Equation is a must-listen. I'm sitting down with Yvette Adams, founder of Creative Collective, who's been crushing it in marketing for 18 years. She started her business in 2007 from her living room, raising a young family, and built an agency that now spans the Sunshine Coast and Newcastle. Talk about dedication! 

Yvette gets real about what it takes to succeed. You'll hear how she tackled early challenges by smartly outsourcing tasks and how her genuine client care built a referral-driven powerhouse. Plus, she shares her strategy for embracing AI, even launching an AI Academy to keep her team ahead. This is crucial for staying relevant. Beyond business, Yvette reveals how she leverages profits for travel, property investments, and building a secure financial future. It's a powerful story of vision, values, and solid systems.

Key Takeaways:

• Smart Delegation: Outsource tasks you don't enjoy or excel at.
• Client-Centric Growth: Genuine care leads to lasting relationships and referrals.
• Embrace AI: Proactively integrate new tech to stay competitive.
• Holistic Success: Use business profits to build personal financial freedom.

Ready to transform your business? Don't miss this episode! Listen now and start building your own growth equation. 👇

Connect with Yvette:

Creative Collective: thecreativecollective.com.au 

Yvette on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvetteadams/

Connect with us. 👇

Evolve To Grow: https://m.mtrbio.com/evolve-to-grow

Ever wondered how someone goes from graphic design dreams to building a successful branding agency? That's Steve Osborn's story, and it's packed with lessons every entrepreneur can relate to.

Steve didn't follow the typical path. What started as design aspirations turned into Identity Marketing when he realized he had a knack for helping businesses figure out who they really are. His journey from juggling two jobs to buying out a business partner? It's refreshingly honest.

We dive into his "three pillars" approach, nailing visuals, sharpening messaging, and delivering killer customer service. Steve's all about mastering the fundamentals before chasing fancy marketing tactics. He also shares the tough stuff: learning to say no to wrong-fit clients and why being picky actually helps your business grow.

Plus, we explore how AI is shaking up marketing, but Steve's clear—nothing beats real human connection. If you want practical tips and honest stories from someone who's been in the trenches, this episode delivers.

Connect with Steve:

Website: https://identitymarketing.com.au/about/steve-osborn/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/osbornsteve/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steve.osborn/

Connect with us. 👇

Evolve To Grow: https://m.mtrbio.com/evolve-to-grow

Ever wondered what it really takes to build a creative business from the ground up, spanning two continents? This episode gets into the nitty-gritty with Rachelle Saevil of Saevil Row. Join us as Rachelle shares the inside story of her branding studio's journey, from its roots in Paris all the way to Sydney. We cover the surprising twists and turns she encountered along the way.

In this episode, we unpack:

The Saevil Row Story: Discover the inspiration behind the name and Rachelle’s bold leap of faith moving overseas to start it all. Plus, what it’s like running a business focused on tailor-made solutions for clients.

Real-World Challenges & Lessons: We get honest about the tough parts—like managing international finances and navigating tricky hiring situations. Rachelle also emphasizes the crucial role of mentorship, even if you don't always follow every piece of advice immediately.

Growth & Innovation: Hear how Rachelle leverages AI tools to keep her business innovative. You'll also learn how the power of simple word-of-mouth was a game-changer, nearly doubling her business in its early stages.

Rachelle brings a powerful and passionate message: trust your instincts and make things happen.

If you're looking for genuine experiences, practical advice, and a good dose of inspiration, this episode is for you.

Connect with Rachelle Saeville:

• Website: https://www.saevilrow.co/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelle-saevil-03739510/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachellesaevil

Connect with us. 👇

Evolve To Grow: https://m.mtrbio.com/evolve-to-grow

This episode is all about finding your business niche and why it's a game-changer. I sat down with Joana Inch, co-founder of Hat Media, and she dropped some serious wisdom.

Joana's journey is powerful: from a general digital marketing agency to a specialized powerhouse in Account-Based Marketing (ABM) for B2B SaaS and tech. Think targeted. Think results. We dive deep into Hat Media's evolution, navigating economic shifts, and why a tight, adaptable team is non-negotiable. Joana explains exactly how ABM crushes traditional marketing by focusing on high-value accounts and building real relationships – a strategy many Australian companies are just waking up to.

We also tackle the future: AI's impact and why genuine connections will always win. Joana’s advice on identifying your ideal clients and crafting content that speaks directly to them is incredibly practical. This isn't just theory. It's your blueprint for focused growth.

Connect with Joana Inch:

• Website: https://hatmedia.com.au/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanainch/ 

Connect with us. 👇

Evolve To Grow: https://m.mtrbio.com/evolve-to-grow

You want to balance your business, family, and personal life? This episode of The Growth Equation is for you.

I'm talking with Jordan McFadyen, founder of Done By Nine. He’s living proof that you can build a successful business without sacrificing your freedom or family time.

Jordan literally started Done By Nine before his 9-to-5 job. That early ambition and focus on flexibility still drive his remote marketing agency today, even as he travels with his family. We get into the nitty-gritty:

• Building a business from the ground up.
• The ins and outs of managing a team and company culture.
• Navigating cash flow challenges.

All while "embracing the chaos" and always getting better.

We also dig into the impact of AI on marketing and why human-created content and trust are more important than ever.

Ready to design a business that fits your life, instead of the other way around? Tune in.

Connect with Jordan:

• Website: https://www.donebynine.com/ 
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/done-by-nine/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donebynine/ 

Instagram: @donebynine 

Connect with us. 👇

Evolve To Grow: https://m.mtrbio.com/evolve-to-grow

How can you leverage the evolving freelance market to supercharge your Australian business? That's what I explored with Kate Huber, founder of This is Rocket. She reveals how her company provides a unique solution for quickly finding skilled local freelancers when you're short on time or resources.

Kate brings a raw, honest perspective on the freelance world – the highs, the lows, the increased demand, and the constant search for experienced talent. Her commitment to fostering a strong freelance community is truly inspiring.

We also dive headfirst into AI, looking at how platforms like Claude are simplifying tasks such as blog writing. Kate's take? AI is an incredible enabler, designed to help us work more efficiently, not replace our roles. If you're seeking to streamline your operations, find top talent, or embrace innovation, this episode is a must-listen.

Connect with Kate Huber:

• Website: https://thisisrocket.com.au/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-huber-a1870b94/ and https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-is-rocket/

Connect with us. 👇

Evolve To Grow: https://m.mtrbio.com/evolve-to-grow

Ready to really move the needle with video marketing and build long-term wealth?

In this episode of The Growth Equation, I sat down with Jacob Lawrence, founder of Fisheye, a standout video marketing agency based in Newcastle, Australia.

We unpack Fisheye’s fascinating journey from a clever name (inspired by a fisheye lens!) to becoming a leader in video marketing. We discuss the rapid evolution of video, including the shift to shorter, more organic content and the demand for faster-to-market media.

Jacob shares practical strategies for business owners:

• Diversifying revenue streams.
• Investing profits wisely.
• Even using your super fund to purchase commercial property.

He’s refreshingly candid about the challenges too—from the early long hours and navigating COVID-19, to mastering tax management. We also explore the future of video marketing, with Jacob’s take on how AI is enhancing, not replacing, creative work.

Connect with Jacob Lawrence

• Website: https://www.fisheyecreative.com.au/
• LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/jacob-lawrence1
• Instagram: @jacobplawrence

Connect with us. 👇

Evolve To Grow: https://m.mtrbio.com/evolve-to-grow

Just wrapped an awesome chat with Isaac Alexander, the brain behind Ape-x. We dove deep into what it really means to run a lean, focused, remote digital marketing agency, especially for high-ticket service businesses. Isaac started out ghostwriting blogs in Brisbane, but they found their sweet spot: SEO and PPC. That move? Game-changer. Narrowing their focus made all the difference, and working with the right clients is where the magic happens.

Isaac got real about the challenges too, sharing big lessons learned from saying "no" to projects that weren't a fit. That decision was huge for team morale and the quality of their work. We also talked AI, of course. Isaac broke down how they use it for content and research, but always, and I mean always, with a human touch.

If you're a business owner looking to refine your services, find the right clients, or get smart about AI, then this episode is for you. 

• Website: https://www.ape-x.com.au/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apexseoandppc 
• LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/isaac-alexander-ape-x
• Instagram: @apexseoandppc

Connect with us. 👇

Evolve To Grow: https://m.mtrbio.com/evolve-to-grow