Conversations That Grow

How Fear Shapes Leadership and What It Really Takes to Grow

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Fear plays a bigger role in leadership than most of us want to admit. In this episode, Mike Konrad shares the conversation that revealed his fear-based decision making — and how that moment became the turning point that reshaped his leadership, his business, and ultimately, his life.

From being dismissed by his employer to building a company that has lasted more than 30 years, Mike opens up about the internal shifts behind his external success. He talks candidly about ego, bravado, revenge, approval, self-awareness, and the uncomfortable process of learning to lead differently.

If you’re navigating growth, change, or the uncomfortable realisation that what once worked no longer does, this conversation will speak to you.

What We Explore

The surprising ways fear shows up in leadership decisions
The mentor conversation that changed everything
How fear-based thinking shapes cash flow, choices, and culture
Making peace with the worst-case scenario
Why early leadership traits often become later limitations
The “starter fluid” analogy for ego, bravado, and urgency
How Mike shifted from proving himself to serving others
Why true leadership requires self-awareness and humility
The mindset shift from doing everything yourself to trusting a team
Redefining success as freedom — not validation
What leaders at the early, frantic stage need to hear

Key Moments

01:26 The fear-based decisions hiding in plain sight

03:49 Becoming aware of the “lenses” shaping choices

09:50 Making peace with the worst to break decision paralysis

12:24 The conversation that sparked his business

19:50 How rejection triggered motivation and identity

23:54 The complicated emotional mix behind early leadership

30:39 When your strengths become your liabilities

33:06 The “starter fluid” metaphor for the early years

36:57 From smartest in the room to “stupidest in the room”

38:42 Redefining success as freedom

45:26 Leading less from proving, more from serving

47:03 Advice for leaders in survival mode

About Mike

Mike Konrad is the founder and CEO of Aqueous Technologies, a global leader in electronics reliability solutions, and the host of two podcasts:

Reliability Matters
The Reluctant Entrepreneur

He writes and speaks widely on leadership, business growth, and the mistakes that shape us.

Connect with Mike

Website: mikekonrad.com
Podcast: reluctantentrepreneurpodcast.com
Aqueous Technologies: aqueoustech.com

If you enjoyed this episode

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The 3 Qualities Every Leader Needs in a Chaotic World

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Nigel Cumberland — leadership coach, co-founder of The Silk Road Partnership, and author of several bestselling books including 100 Things Successful Leaders Do.

Nigel and I get into:

The pivotal conversation that helped him redefine who he was
His early career as a very young finance director
Why mistakes became his greatest teachers
Imposter syndrome & how he learned to handle it
Culture clashes and the importance of understanding differences
The evolution of leadership across decades
Why leadership starts with self-awareness
Leadership beyond titles — influencing in everyday life
Why leaders today are more overwhelmed than ever
His framework: Grounded • Connected • Purposeful
The biggest thing leaders need to unlearn
The one leadership principle he believes changes everything
The hidden cost of poor leadership
How leaders can stay human in a very digital world

This is an honest, insightful, deeply human conversation about leadership — the kind that helps you rethink the way you show up in your work and life.

Links from the Episode

Nigel’s Website

👉 https://nigelcumberland.com/

Nigel’s Books

👉 https://www.amazon.com/stores/Nigel-Cumberland/author/B0034P71X2

LinkedIn Learning Courses

👉 https://www.linkedin.com/learning/instructors/nigel-cumberland

Speaking Enquiries

👉 https://www.wsb.com/speakers/nigel-cumberland/

00:00 Intro

01:04 The conversation that changed Nigel’s life

04:30 Resetting your identity after a big career shift

05:53 Mistakes that shaped him as a young leader

09:10 Imposter syndrome in early leadership roles

10:50 Culture clashes and understanding differences

14:05 Why self-awareness matters more than ever

16:40 Leadership beyond titles and formal roles

18:50 Role modelling at home and at work

19:22 The rise of empowerment in leadership

20:00 Helping people see themselves as leaders

23:00 Leadership in a disrupted, digital world

24:30 Grounded, Connected, Purposeful framework

29:44 What leaders struggle with most today

30:50 What people crave in leaders

34:21 Leading with a full tank: self-care and burnout

38:09 The most important principle healthy leaders live by

41:20 When bad leaders survive — and why they shouldn't

42:26 Closing thoughts

The best growth often starts with a meaningful conversation — thank you for being part of this one.

How to Stop Micromanaging and Build a High-Trust Team

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Conversations That Grow, Sadaf Beynon sits down with Anastasia Ristovska, co-founder of Next Generation and Books At Ease, to explore the deeper conversations that helped her shift from control to trust—and from doing everything herself to building high-performing, empowered teams.

Anastasia shares two pivotal conversations: one that forced her to stop thinking like an employee and start thinking like a business owner, and another with a team member who challenged her to trust more and let go. These moments reshaped her leadership, led her to create a 90-day training system, and helped her grow two companies without burning out.

If you’ve ever struggled with delegation, micromanaging, or trusting your team, this episode will speak directly to you.

In This Episode You’ll Learn:

Why micromanaging is rooted in fear, not ego
The conversation that shifted Anastasia’s identity from doer to leader
How trusting your team creates long-term growth
What it takes to train your team to work independently
How to lead without knowing all the answers
Why leadership isn’t a destination—but a daily practice
The mindset shift that stops you from being the bottleneck

Connect With Anastasia

About Conversations That Grow

This is the podcast where we explore the conversations that shape who we become as leaders and people. Because growth starts with the conversations we’re willing to have—especially the ones we have with ourselves.Companies mentioned in this episode:

How Mentorship Shapes the Leaders We Become

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Sadaf Beynon is joined by Shelley Rosetta, a sales and business development leader with more than 30 years of experience. Shelley opens up about the mentors, conversations, and experiences that shaped her leadership — the good, the painful, and the transformative.

We explore:

The leaders who believed in her when she didn’t
Why great performers often struggle as new leaders
The mindset shift from “doing” to “developing others”
How accountability begins at the top
Why mentorship has quietly disappeared in many workplaces
How identity, empathy, and self-awareness shape the way we lead
Why leadership is about showing up, not titles
How to lead from wherever you are

This conversation is a reminder that leadership isn’t about being the star of the show — it’s about creating space for others to grow.

Connect with Shelley:

Email: srosetta@solomoncoil.com

Why the Most Impactful Leaders Start With Themselves

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000

Guest: Mike Kelly | Executive Coach & Founder of Right Path Enterprises

In this episode, Mike Kelly shares the kinds of leadership conversations that have shaped his life and work — and why the best leaders often do their most important work behind the scenes. From his early days in corporate to founding two mission-driven businesses, Mike brings wisdom, warmth, and clarity to what it means to lead yourself first.

We talk about:

The conversation that changed how he sees growth
Letting go of performance culture and embracing rest
Leading with values and aligning your inner and outer life
What financial planning can learn from coaching (and vice versa)

Whether you're in leadership, transition, or simply learning to grow with intention — this conversation will meet you there.

Links & Resources:

🎧 For more episodes, visit conversationsgrowpodcast.com

What Nelson Mandela Taught About Dignity and Leadership

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 18:00:00 +0000

We’re back! After a short pause to rebuild Conversations That Grow with more intention, this episode sets the tone for everything ahead.

In this deeply reflective conversation, David Lapin shares:

The pivotal conversation he had with Nelson Mandela
The surprising insight that dignity is something you give
What your “Spiritual Fingerprint” is—and why it matters more than personality tests
How to lead without losing your identity
Why curiosity and humility are the secret ingredients to meaningful dialogue

🎧 I’ve since taken the Spiritual Fingerprint assessment myself, and I found it incredibly clarifying. It helped me see what truly drives me—and what I won’t compromise on.

👉 Take the Spiritual Fingerprint (affiliate link): https://fingerprint.lapininternational.com/login?via=sadaf

More from David Lapin

Website: https://lapininternational.com
Book: Lead by Greatness
LinkedIn (David): https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlapin
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/lapin-international

Why I'm Taking a Break

Sat, 12 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

I’m taking a short break from publishing new episodes of Conversations That Grow, but it’s not goodbye.

This podcast has become a personal passion project, and I’m using this time to reset, record new conversations, and shape the next chapter with fresh intention.

If you’ve been listening, thank you. Truly!

And if you’d like to be a guest or know someone with a story to share about leadership, growth, or influence through conversation, I’d love to hear from you.

New episodes will be back soon.

🎧 Explore past conversations: www.conversationsthatgrowpodcast.com

📬 Connect or pitch a guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadafbeynon/

How to Rule Your Mind | Lenora Edwards

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

What if the critical voice telling you "you're not good enough" isn't actually yours? In this raw and transformative conversation, emotional mastery coach Lenora Edwards reveals how she discovered that her decades-long eating disorder and crippling self-doubt were driven by inherited voices from her past - not her authentic self. She shares her breakthrough moment in a dentist's chair that led to developing the SHIFT Protocol, a practical method for identifying whose voice is really speaking in your head and trading limiting thoughts for empowering ones. If you've ever struggled with imposter syndrome, emotional overwhelm, or feeling stuck despite your success, this episode offers a powerful roadmap for reclaiming control of your inner dialogue and, ultimately, your life.

What You'll Learn

Why the limiting beliefs holding you back aren't actually "yours" and where they really come from
The 5-step SHIFT Protocol for transforming negative thoughts in real-time
How to distinguish between inherited shame voices and your authentic inner wisdom
Why trading thoughts works better than trying to transform them completely
The difference between confidence and certainty in leadership situations
Practical strategies for setting boundaries without people-pleasing or emotional overwhelm

Resources

Guest Links:

Lenora's Website: https://driventobebetter.com/
Lenora's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenora-edwards-m-s-941b1452/

Conversations that Grow Ecosystem:

Conversations that Grow Home: https://conversationsthatgrowpodcast.com/
Podjunction: https://podjunction.com/

How One Simple Question Became My Leadership Compass for 40 Years | Jim Carlough

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

One conversation changed everything for Jim Carlough. Fresh out of college and newly elected to city council, he expected the usual political favours. Instead, he got life-changing advice that would shape his entire leadership philosophy. In this episode, Jim shares how a simple question asked every night for over 40 years became his compass through challenging business turnarounds, difficult decisions, and building high-performing teams. From transforming struggling sales teams to navigating integrity challenges in corporate America, Jim reveals why some pillars of leadership are simply non-negotiable.

Resources

Guest Links:

Jim's Website: https://www.jimcarlough.com/
Jim's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcarlough/
mPulse: https://mpulse.com/
Jim's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Six-Pillars-Effective-Leadership-Roadmap/dp/B0DQWT93V7

Conversations that Grow Ecosystem:

Conversations that Grow Home: https://conversationsthatgrowpodcast.com/
Podjunction Home: https://podjunction.com/

Every Entrepreneur Starts Their Business for Deeper Reasons Than Just Profit

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Carly Pepin thought moving from LA to Australia would solve her problems. She was wrong. In this raw conversation, she reveals the moment she realised geography wasn't the issue – her internal world was.

From blaming her environment to discovering authentic leadership, Carly shares how facing personal trauma unlocked massive business growth. We explore why some people will always hate your leadership (and why that's actually good), the dangerous "should" trap that kills entrepreneurial growth, and how your deepest personal roadblocks are secretly limiting your business scaling.

Links referenced in this episode:

westcoastgrowthadvisors.com

Want help creating your own podcast? Visit us at podjunction.com or reach out to Sadaf directly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadafbeynon/

The 18-Digit Combination Lock Every Leader Must Crack

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The principal theme of this podcast episode centres on the notion that mere job performance is insufficient for career advancement. I engage in a dialogue with Andrea Wasserman, founder of Executive Express, who elucidates the invisible rules that govern professional progression, particularly for new graduates. Andrea emphasizes the critical importance of communication and executive presence, asserting that individuals must actively showcase their achievements to cultivate recognition in increasingly competitive environments. Furthermore, we explore the concept of "style flexing," which entails adapting one's approach based on the dynamics of the workplace. This conversation serves as a vital resource for listeners seeking to enhance their influence and navigate the complexities of career development effectively.

Links referenced in this episode:

Want help creating your own podcast? Visit us at podjunction.com or reach out to Sadaf directly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadafbeynon/

The Art of Running a Business That Doesn't Need You

Wed, 28 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This podcast episode revolves around the crucial distinction between one's identity and the business they operate, with a particular emphasis on the necessity of dissociating personal worth from business performance. I elucidate the pivotal realisation that many entrepreneurs conflate their self-esteem with their business success, leading to emotional turmoil during challenging times. By learning to view the business as an independent entity, we foster a healthier mindset that enables more rational decision-making and mitigates emotional distress. Throughout the discussion, I share personal anecdotes that illustrate the evolution of my entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the support of mentors and loved ones in navigating the complexities of business leadership. Ultimately, we explore how embracing uncertainty and prioritising personal well-being can lead to sustained growth and fulfillment in both business and life.

Links referenced in this episode:

Want help creating your own podcast? Visit us at podjunction.com or reach out to Sadaf directly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadafbeynon/

The Leadership Paradox - When To Listen And When To Let Go

Wed, 21 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this revealing episode of Conversations That Grow, serial entrepreneur Jose Berlanga shares 40 years of hard-won business wisdom. From surviving a childhood accident that left him with third-degree burns to building and losing multi-million dollar companies, Jose's candid insights on leadership, growth pains, and finding purpose will change how you think about business success.

Connect with Jose

Find Jose's books on Amazon:

The Business of Home Building
Dirt Rich
Look out for "Quantum Entrepreneurship" coming soon

Ready to grow your business through conversations?

If you're thinking about using conversations to grow your own business through podcasting but don't have time to handle all the moving parts, we can help! Visit podjunction.com to learn more.

📱 CONNECT WITH SADAF: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadafbeynon/

The 80/20 Rule of Leadership No One Talks About

Wed, 14 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Conversations That Grow, we speak with Meredith Walker, founder of Fortifying Roots and strategic consultant. Meredith shares her extraordinary journey from becoming a caregiver at 23 for her quadriplegic mother to developing leadership expertise that transforms businesses.

Meredith reveals how this profound personal experience shaped her approach to authentic communication and decision-making. She explains her philosophy that "80% of people's day-to-day work is controllable, but the 20% is where you unlock their true creativity potential that drives your business forward."

We explore how leaders can set clear expectations while leaving room for creativity, why focusing on controllable factors during challenging times builds resilience, and how understanding what motivates each team member creates alignment with company goals.

Meredith also shares her passionate commitment to mentoring youth, helping them see their potential beyond current circumstances. Her inspiring message reminds us that our circumstances don't define success - our decisions do.

Links referenced in this episode:

📱 CONNECT WITH SADAF: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadafbeynon/

Breaking Free from How We've Always Done It

Wed, 07 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Conversations That Grow, Chris Vaughan shares how his father's simple advice—"happiness is the goal"—transformed his entire approach to business and life. After climbing the corporate ladder and "flying high" in consulting, Chris realized he was achieving everyone else's goals but his own.

This powerful conversation explores how Chris applied his philosophy background to create a purpose-driven consulting firm that helps nonprofit associations rediscover their authentic mission. He reveals the surprising blind spots organizations have (most have never experienced their own member journey!), why "we've always done it this way" blocks transformation, and how leaders create organizations in their own image—for better or worse.

Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or seeking more meaning in your work, Chris's insights on aligning success with happiness will challenge how you measure achievement. Perfect for entrepreneurs, consultants, and leaders who want to grow without losing their soul in the process.

Links referenced in this episode:

Companies mentioned in this episode:

Sequence Consulting

Want help creating your own podcast? Visit us at podjunction.com or reach out to Sadaf directly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadafbeynon/

The Magnetic Effect of Making People Feel Understood

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 10:15:00 +0000

In this conversation with Michael Davis, founder of Speaking CPR, we explore how truly listening can transform your business and leadership. Michael reveals how he discovered that clients valued him most for his listening skills, not his expertise, changing his entire approach to business.

We dive into practical techniques for becoming a better listener, including the power of seeking clarity, embracing silence, and using storytelling to create "mental movies" that engage emotions, not just intellect. In a world where everyone is rushing to speak, Michael shares why slowing down to understand others makes you stand out "like a magnet."

Whether you're leading a team, building client relationships, or simply wanting to communicate more effectively, this episode offers valuable insights that can immediately improve how people respond to you.

Links referenced in this episode:

Companies mentioned in this episode:

Speaking cpr

Want help creating your own podcast? Visit us at podjunction.com or reach out to Sadaf directly on LinkedIn.

Connect with Sadaf: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadafbeynon/

Building Trust Through Actions

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This episode centers on the essential role of meaningful dialogue in leadership and the impact of personal experiences on professional development. We delve into the insights shared by Mike Schentrup, a retired police captain and founder of Advanced Police Concepts, who reflects on his extensive career in law enforcement and the lessons learned throughout his journey. Notably, Mike emphasizes the importance of modeling behavior as a leader, highlighting that true leadership extends beyond mere authority and requires genuine engagement with others. We also explore how effective communication, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, fosters trust and cohesion within teams. Ultimately, this episode offers valuable perspectives on how our conversations shape not only our careers but also the communities we serve.

Links referenced in this episode:

Companies mentioned in this episode:

Advanced Police Concepts
University of Florida
Gainesville Police Department

Connect with Sadaf: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadafbeynon

How To Lead When Everything Is Falling Apart

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this powerful episode of Conversations That Grow, we speak with Terry Tucker, a former SWAT team hostage negotiator, cancer warrior, author, and speaker whose life is a masterclass in resilience and leadership.

Terry shares his extraordinary 13-year journey battling a rare form of melanoma after being told he had just two years to live. He reveals how finding "meaning in misery" has helped him persevere through multiple amputations and experimental treatments.

Drawing from his unique background in law enforcement and his ongoing cancer battle, Terry offers profound insights on building trust, influencing others during crisis, and leading with empathy. He explains why "leaders eat last" and how shifting focus away from ourselves during hardship can provide unexpected purpose.

Whether you're navigating business challenges or personal setbacks, Terry's wisdom on resilience, trust-building, and meaningful connections will transform how you approach leadership when everything feels like it's falling apart.

Links Mentioned

Terry's website: motivationalcheck.com

Sadaf Beynon's Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadafbeynon/

Four Words That Shattered My Perfect-on-Paper Life

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this eye-opening conversation, host Sadaf Beynon sits down with Christina Langdon, a former media executive who spent two decades climbing the corporate ladder, including 19 years at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia and as CRO at Fast Company.

After facing a life-changing leukemia diagnosis just as she was pivoting to a new career path, Christina's perspective on success underwent a dramatic transformation. Now, as a coach and consultant, she helps leaders tap into what she calls "human AI" – awareness and imagination – to create more meaningful success and avoid burnout.

Links mentioned:

LinkedIn: Christina Langdon

Instagram: @christinalangdonbosslady

Website: kite-labs.com or christinalangdon.com

Sadaf Beynon's Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sadafbeynon/

Stop Talking About Your Business to Win More Clients

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Conversations That Grow, we chat with Drew Donaldson, strategist and founder of GroHaus.

Drew shares why building relationships trumps talking business, revealing his unconventional sales approach that lets clients speak uninterrupted for the first 15 minutes. He takes us through buying out his business partners while his wife was six months pregnant, and how he immediately turned the company profitable by cutting unnecessary expenses.

Drew offers fresh perspectives on contentment versus complacency, meaningful happiness versus status symbols, and why truly understanding your customers drives business success.

Links Mentioned:

GroHaus.org

The Rainy Day Chat That Birthed a $10 Million Real Estate Revolution

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we dive deep with Matt Blair, COO and founding partner of REI Capital Growth. Matt shares how a single rainstorm conversation with his father in an empty Dallas apartment sparked a business that's revolutionizing how small balance investors access commercial real estate opportunities.

We explore how conversations have shaped both Matt's business and personal life - from the month-long phone calls that formed the foundation of his relationship with his now-wife, to the persistent debates that helped refine their investment model through multiple SEC rejections.

Links & Companies Mentioned

REI Capital Growth: reicapitalgrowth.com
REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts)

How One Conversation Changed My Entire Career

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of "Conversations That Grow," Dr. Ken Gembel reveals how a single conversation with an automotive CEO completely changed his career trajectory. The founder of Luck Unlimited (which stands for "Laboring Under Complete Knowledge") shares powerful leadership insights from manufacturing trenches to motocross tracks.

Ken unpacks his unconventional approach to problem-solving, why he values listening to frontline workers, and how true success comes from passionate engagement rather than comfortable mediocrity. His story reminds us that behind every successful person isn't just "luck" but disciplined labor and complete knowledge of their craft.

A must-listen for anyone wanting to transform their leadership approach and build teams that actually want to show up for work.

Links Referenced:

Instagram: @LuckUnlimitedApparel

Instagram: @LuckUnlimited

"Luck It With Lexi" podcast

Goodbye Push to Be More, Hello Conversations That Grow

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

🚀 Big news! Push to Be More is transforming into something new—welcome to Conversations That Grow!

After three years of deep conversations with business leaders, Matt Edmundson reveals why it’s time for a change. In this special episode, Matt sits down with Sadaf Beynon to share the surprising insights he’s gained about vulnerability, connection, and the magic that happens when people open up on a podcast.

Listen as they announce exciting changes, including Sadaf stepping into the host role and the podcast’s sharper focus on how conversations fuel business growth and influence.

Don’t miss this honest chat about the power of meaningful dialogue—and why even the best things sometimes need to evolve. Hit subscribe and get ready for what’s next!

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Timestamps

0:00 - Welcome and introduction to special announcement

1:50 - Matt reflects on the history of Push to Be More

4:18 - What Matt learned from hosting the podcast

11:36 - The surprising vulnerability of podcast conversations

15:32 - Announcement of the podcast's name change

20:15 - Introducing Sadaf as the new host

22:38 - The new guiding question for "Conversations that Grow"

27:20 - Information on how to stay connected with the show

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

How to Beat the Hidden Struggle 78% of Leaders Face with Therese Gopaul-Robinson

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Ever wondered why everyone else seems so confident when you don't? Join Sadaf Beynon as she speaks with Therese Gopaul-Robinson, who reveals the shocking truth that 78% of leaders struggle with confidence issues. From crying in her car before work to transforming organizations with her "security stacking" method, Therese shares the three-step framework that helped one company improve performance metrics from 16% to 82% in just one year. Discover how to build your confidence muscle and transform not just your leadership, but your entire organization.

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What You'll Learn

Why confidence isn't a personal issue but a business concern that affects entire organizations
How to "borrow belief" when you can't find confidence within yourself
The three-part "security stacking" method for building sustainable confidence
Why 78% of leaders struggle with confidence despite outward success
How one leader's confidence transformation improved company metrics from 16% to 82%

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The Real Estate Agent Who Decided to Engineer Urban Happiness with Hunter Patrick

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

When transplants move to Greenville, South Carolina, they often find a beautiful city but struggle to find connection. Enter Hunter Patrick, a former geometry teacher turned real estate agent who engineered an unconventional solution to urban loneliness. In this conversation, Hunter reveals his deliberate approach to building happiness in a city of strangers, sharing how his community has grown from casual meetups to holiday celebrations and lasting friendships. Discover why he left teaching, how he's applying lessons from his college days to create meaningful connections, and why being kind might be the strongest thing you can do.

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What You'll Learn:

Why traditional social groups might be limiting genuine connections
How to intentionally build community in a city of transplants
The relationship between kindness and strength in leadership
Why specific hobby groups often miss the mark on connection
The power of giving people your undivided attention
How to maintain authenticity while pursuing growth
Ways to balance risk-taking with personal values

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

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Links referenced in this episode:

PushToBeMore.com
podjunction.com
Hunter's Email - hunter.t.patrick@gmail.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

Push to Be More
Podjunction
Greenville Happiness

Why Great Leaders Choose Face-to-Face over Digital Connection

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Want to push yourself to greater heights in business and leadership? Join Matt Edmundson as he talks with Glenn Poulos, a serial entrepreneur who built and sold multiple successful companies by mastering the art of human connection. From getting his sales team out of the office and in front of customers, to leveraging AI while maintaining the personal touch, Glenn shares actionable insights for anyone looking to grow their business and deepen their impact. Discover how combining timeless leadership principles with modern tools can help you achieve greater success and meaning in your entrepreneurial journey.

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Key Takeaways

Leadership requires maintaining the human touch, even as technology advances. Glenn emphasizes that while AI and digital tools are valuable, they should enhance rather than replace personal relationships. True leadership means being present with your team and customers, creating genuine connections that technology alone cannot replicate.

Success comes from being "a pleasure to do business with." Glenn built his business around this principle, ensuring every interaction, from answering phones to meeting clients, focused on creating positive experiences. This approach not only drove business growth but created lasting relationships that transcended traditional business boundaries.

Growing businesses requires strategic thinking about equity and partnerships. Glenn shares valuable insights about when to partner, when to go solo, and how to make smart decisions about sharing equity. His experience selling multiple companies provides practical wisdom for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses.

Personal growth and business success are interconnected. Glenn's story demonstrates how maintaining interests outside of business - from DJing to pickleball - contributes to overall leadership effectiveness and personal fulfillment. His commitment to continuous learning, especially with emerging technologies like AI, shows how leaders can stay relevant while honoring timeless principles.

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

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Links referenced in this episode:

Companies mentioned in this episode:

NWS
Podjunction
Gap Wireless

Empowering Women in Leadership with Belinda Clemmensen

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Push to Be More, host Sadaf Beynon interviews Belinda Clemmensen, CEO and founder of Women's Leadership Intensive, about empowering female leaders and addressing systemic challenges in the workplace. Belinda shares insights on the unique hurdles women face in leadership roles, the importance of diversity and inclusion, and her personal journey as an entrepreneur. The conversation explores strategies for sustainable leadership, the evolution of DEI initiatives, and the need for a more integrated approach to gender equity in the professional world.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro and guest introduction

5:52 Challenges faced by women in leadership

12:34 Origins of Women's Leadership Intensive

16:23 Unique challenges for women in workplace

22:43 Adapting leadership approach for individuals

28:12 Systemic challenges and DEI pushback

33:01 Bridging divides and finding common ground

37:33 Recharging and staying resilient in impactful work

41:18 Personal growth and sustainable work-life balance

44:38 Closing remarks and contact information

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Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Authentic Leadership:

Belinda Clemmensen highlights the importance of leading in a way that aligns with one's personal values and strengths. She believes that leadership is an inside job, encouraging individuals to lead as themselves rather than conforming to traditional expectations.

2. Value Diversity in Learning:

Belinda underscores the significance of diverse learning environments. By bringing together individuals from various industries and backgrounds, her open-enrolment programmes create a rich tapestry of perspectives. This diversity enhances learning and broadens participants' understanding, making it a key component of effective leadership development.

3. Prioritise Self-Care and Reflection:

Belinda advises leaders to listen to their bodies and prioritise self-care to maintain resilience. She emphasises the role of reflection and writing in staying connected to one's experiences and emotions. This self-awareness helps drive meaningful change and supports sustainable, balanced living.

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Creativity, Business, and Being a Continual Learner with Amer Tadayon

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Amer Tadayon, a modern Renaissance man, shares his journey as an engineer turned tech innovator, filmmaker, and musician. He discusses the challenges of balancing creativity with business operations in his AI-powered video production platform, Lucihub. Amer reflects on the lessons learned from past ventures, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right investors and team members. He shares insights on leadership, problem-solving, and personal growth, drawing from influences like his mother, football coaches, and a pivotal math professor. Amer's story highlights the power of adaptability, continuous learning, and maintaining a creative outlet to recharge. His experiences offer valuable lessons for entrepreneurs on navigating the complexities of building and scaling businesses while striving for personal development.

Key Takeaways:

1. Prioritise and execute daily tasks

Amer emphasises the importance of setting three key tasks each day and ensuring they're completed, no matter what. This approach helps maintain focus and drive the business forward, especially for those with ADHD who may struggle with execution.

2. There's good money and bad money in business

Amer advises entrepreneurs to be cautious about accepting investments. He stresses the importance of finding investors who can add value beyond capital, such as through contacts and networks, rather than those who might have detrimental terms or motives.

3. Learn from failures faster

Amer recommends analysing failures promptly and applying the lessons learned. He emphasises the cost of repeating mistakes and the value of using past experiences to inform future decisions and actions in both personal and professional spheres.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

What Does Success Mean to You? With Andrew Hartshorn

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Push To Be More, host Matt Edmundson chats with Andrew Hartshorn, an expert in helping businesses prepare for exit. They discuss the challenges of selling a business, the importance of work-life balance, and how the definition of success changes with age. Andrew shares insights on achieving freedom through business and the value of enjoying the journey rather than just focusing on the destination.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

5:08 If you could interview anyone, who would it be?

10:50 From business owner to exit expert

16:14 The emotional side of business exits

29:53 Defining growth as freedom

41:05 Success vs significance

46:09 Outro and contact information

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Key Takeaways:

1. Prioritise Freedom Over Wealth:

Andrew highlights the importance of valuing freedom and time over mere financial gain. He states, "Most people want money, but they don't realise the reason they want wealth is because that will give them the freedom to do what they want." This underscores the idea that true success is about having the liberty to choose how you spend your time, rather than just accumulating wealth.

2. Prepare for Business Exit Early:

Andrew advises business owners to get their businesses ready for sale well in advance. He mentions, "Get your business ready for sale so you can sell it when you're ready. You've got to put that effort in beforehand." This preparation not only ensures a smoother transition but also provides peace of mind and freedom when the time comes to exit.

3. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination:

Andrew encourages enjoying the process rather than solely focusing on end goals. He notes, "A lot of people always focus on the end result... And you can lose five years doing that." By taking time to reflect and appreciate the journey, individuals can find greater satisfaction and avoid losing years to relentless pursuit of future targets.

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Building From Business Failure with Steven Pettigrew and Jamie Simpson

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The conversation in this episode serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of personal experiences on professional journeys. Steven Pettigrew and Jamie Simpson, seasoned business investors, join host Matt Edmondson in a candid discussion about their paths to entrepreneurship and their work with Monopoli Capital. The episode opens with light-hearted introductions that quickly shift to the heart of the matter: what it takes to revitalize struggling businesses. Steven shares his early life growing up in an entrepreneurial environment, detailing the lessons learned from his family’s business that once thrived but ultimately faced collapse. This pivotal moment forced him to reassess his identity and approach to business, inspiring him to become a turnaround specialist.

Jamie shares insights into his individual podcast journey, “Get Rich or Cry Trying,” and how it complements his partnership with Steven. Their discussion highlights the balance between personal growth and professional development, showcasing how their different backgrounds enrich their business strategies. This episode is packed with practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, making it a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of business.

Takeaways:

The importance of clear communication and expectations in business partnerships to avoid misunderstandings.
Social media's impact on mental health, especially among young girls, is alarming.
Building relationships with your children's friends can create a safe and supportive environment.
Daily wins can create momentum and confidence, pushing you toward your long-term goals.
Taking time for self-care, such as exercise, is essential for maintaining productivity.
Investing in personal development and learning new skills keeps entrepreneurs engaged and motivated.

Links referenced in this episode:

monopolycapital.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/turnaroundexpert/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenpettigrewinvestor/

Companies mentioned in this episode:

Monopoli Capital
Olympus
Olympus Airways
Juventus Football Club
EasyJet

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

From Baseball to Business and a Purpose Driven Life with Chris Mader

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Push to Be More, host Matt Edmundson interviews Chris Mader, founder and CEO of MTA Consulting, about his journey from professional athlete to successful business coach. Chris shares insights on making life adjustments, finding purpose, and balancing success with personal happiness. Discover how Chris overcame challenges, wrote a book, and built a thriving consultancy focused on leadership development and sales coaching.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

2:48 Meet Chris Mader

8:37 Writing a book and starting a business

33:35 Managing work-life balance and personal growth

39:21 Shifting from success to significance

45:41 How to connect with Chris Mader

46:54 Closing remarks and show wrap-up

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Key Takeaways:

1. Make the adjustment - Take ownership of your situation and be willing to change. As Chris says: "You're the one that has to make the change." He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and taking action to improve your circumstances.

2. Find your purpose - Identify what truly motivates and fulfills you. Chris notes: "Once you establish the purpose. All the studies have been done on, once you're purpose driven, you'll get up earlier, you'll stay later." Aligning your work with your purpose leads to greater satisfaction and success.

3. Focus on balance and wellbeing - Don't neglect your health and relationships in pursuit of career success. Chris shares: "I wanted to spend more time with my kids, I want to spend time with my wife, I want to spend more time with my friends. And I was over invested in work." He emphasizes the importance of finding balance for overall happiness and fulfillment.

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Pushing Beyond Comfort with John Rich

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Push to Be More, host Sadaf Beynon interviews John Rich, founder of A Rich Opinion, about his journey as an entrepreneur in PR and marketing. John shares insights on overcoming challenges, balancing work and family life, and his vision for the future of his business.

Discover valuable lessons on leadership, growth, and the importance of honesty in client relationships.

Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

2:02 Guest Introduction

4:23 Elon Musk as a Dream Guest

6:52 Parenting and Personal Growth

8:14 Facing Challenges

11:11 Business Development Lessons

14:10 Adapting to Business Realities

18:34 Going Solo and Leadership Growth

20:58 Balancing Business and Family

23:19 Defining Growth

25:45 Future of PR and Marketing

27:54 Opportunities in Video Content

32:23 Leadership Style and Team Building

35:16 Transparency and Client Relations

38:28 Building a Reputation

39:32 Contact Information

Personal Growth as the Road to Success with Rick Salmeron

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join host Matt Edmundson on 'Push To Be More' as he dives deep into a conversation with Rick Salmeron, Certified Financial Planner and CEO of Salmeron Financial. Discover Rick's unique life experiences, how he overcame limiting beliefs, and his journey towards personal growth. Sponsored by Podjunction, this episode is filled with insightful discussions on shaping a successful mindset and standing out in life and business.

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Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:31 Guest Introduction: Rick Salmeron

01:02 Sponsorship Shoutout

02:04 Rick's Background and Interests

03:39 Rick's Life in Dallas

06:12 First Rock Concert Experience

12:49 Personal Growth and Business Insights

23:52 A Life-Changing Weekend

26:24 The Power of Pessimism

30:10 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs

34:11 Daily Disciplines for Success

39:08 Influences and Personal Growth

42:30 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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Key Takeaways:

Breakthrough Experiences: Rick's impactful experiences, like attending his first concert, illustrate how stepping outside of comfort zones can lead to significant personal growth and a broader view of what's possible.
The Importance of Personal Development: Continuous personal growth is crucial. Rick’s story highlights the importance of self-improvement in overcoming limiting beliefs and achieving success both in personal and professional spheres.
Building Trust and Relationships: Establishing trust with clients, colleagues, and loved ones has been a cornerstone of Rick’s approach to life and business. Working on oneself is vital for fostering authentic, trustworthy relationships.

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Servant Leadership with Jon Antonucci

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join host Matt Edmundson on 'Push to Be More' as he dives into an insightful discussion with Jon Antonucci, a leadership coach and founder of SML Consultive. Jon shares his unique life experiences, the challenges he's overcome, and his thoughts on servant leadership. From his early days in martial arts and coaching youth sports to dealing with personal adversity and leading international organizations, Jon's journey is both inspiring and eye-opening. Sponsored by Podjunction, this episode explores the importance of character, ownership, and true servant leadership. Don't miss this profound conversation filled with life's hard-earned lessons.

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Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:40 Meet Jon Antonucci

12:09 Servant Leadership Philosophy

18:58 Jon's Leadership Journey

22:38 A Devastating Sentence and Reflection

24:04 Building Inmate Peer Programming

27:12 Servant Leadership in the Corporate World

29:09 Empowering Frontline Leaders

35:42 The Importance of Character in Leadership

41:12 Taking Responsibility and Ownership

42:26 Connecting with Jon Antonucci

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Key Takeaways

Leadership is About Service, Not Manipulation: Jon emphasizes that true leadership involves serving your team, focusing on what benefits them most rather than what can be extracted from them.
Character is the Foundation of Leadership: Jon's story underscores the importance of character development, especially when posed with significant challenges. Leadership that is grounded in genuine beliefs and strong values is lasting and influential.
Redemption Through Responsibility: Taking ownership of past actions is crucial. Jon illustrates that accepting responsibility is the first step towards meaningful advocacy and leadership.

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Balancing Life and Business with Lauren Bayne

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join host Sadaf Beynon on "Push to Be More" as she welcomes Lauren Bayne, a creative director with a flair for personal branding. Discover Lauren's journey from advertising for Fortune 500 companies to helping leaders craft unique brand identities. Sponsored by Podjunction, this episode explores the transformative power of podcasting for businesses.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

2:30 Introduction of Lauren Bain

6:58 Discovering Advertising

11:33 Pivot to Purpose-Driven Work

16:08 Entrepreneurial Ventures

20:44 Personal Development and Branding

26:28 Challenges and Overcoming Them

32:25 Impact of Dementia on Family

37:46 Family Dynamics and Growth

41:08 Recharging and Self-Care

46:05 Future Growth and Goals

51:28 Conclusion and Contact Information

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Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Personal Growth and Self-Awareness: Lauren highlights the importance of introspection and self-awareness as tools for personal development. She acknowledges that while being introspective can sometimes lead to overthinking, it ultimately helps in understanding oneself better and navigating life's challenges.

2. Pursue Purpose-Driven Work: Lauren's career journey underscores the significance of aligning professional pursuits with personal values and purpose. She shares her transition from working with large brands to focusing on personal branding for individuals, driven by a desire to work with purpose-based brands.

3. Invest in Yourself and Your Well-being: Lauren discusses the importance of investing in personal and professional development. She mentions her involvement in mastermind groups and workshops as a means to recharge and grow. Additionally, she emphasises the value of taking time for oneself, whether through exercise or other activities, to maintain balance and well-being.

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

AI, Dealing with Failure, and Taking Risks with Arshad Hisham

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of "Push to Be More," host Matt Edmundson engages with Arshad Hisham, a dynamic entrepreneur and CEO of inGen Dynamics. Arshad shares his journey from overcoming a catastrophic business failure to building a successful company with an $80 million revenue pipeline. The conversation explores the rapid evolution of AI and robotics, highlighting both the exciting potential and the societal challenges they present. Arshad discusses the importance of resilience, risk-taking, and reframing failure as a learning opportunity. He also emphasises the value of gratitude and introspection in maintaining contentment and purpose. This insightful dialogue offers a blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, making it a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts.

Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: Arshad highlights the importance of viewing failures not as personal shortcomings but as character-building experiences. He stresses that setbacks are often due to external factors beyond one's control and advises detaching oneself from the failure to learn and grow from it. This perspective helps in maintaining resilience and continuing to pursue one's goals despite challenges.

2. Cultivate Mental Resilience and Adaptability: Arshad discusses the significance of mental exercises, such as meditation and introspection, to build resilience. He suggests that just as physical exercise is essential for the body, mental exercises are crucial for the mind. This includes reframing situations positively and understanding that personal growth often comes from overcoming adversity.

3. Live with Gratitude and Without Expectations: Arshad advocates for starting each day with gratitude, acknowledging the positive aspects of life rather than focusing on what is lacking. He also advises against having expectations from others, as this can lead to disappointment and negative emotions. By doing so, one can maintain a sense of freedom and contentment, focusing on personal growth and contribution rather than external validation.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Managing Stress and Handling Pressure with James Bargeron

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join host Sadaf Beynon on the Push to Be More Podcast as she welcomes performance specialist James Bargeron, who shares insights from his 30-year career in global oil transportation and his transition to coaching. Discover how James navigated industry pressures and personal challenges to help professionals excel under pressure. Sponsored by Podjunction, this episode explores the transformative power of podcasting for businesses.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

2:15 Introduction of James Bargeron

5:50 Guest Choice for Podcast Guest

8:53 Defining Challenges Faced

14:15 Career Transition and Family Impact

20:07 Industry Culture and Personal Growth

28:24 Path to Coaching and Mentoring

35:31 Breaking the Cycle of Blame and Shame

41:17 Childhood Influences on Drive

50:18 Understanding Pressure and Stress

55:10 Managing Pressure and Recharging

1:00:36 Future Growth and Relationships

1:03:38 Contact Information

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Key Takeaways:

1. Self-Evaluation and Awareness: James emphasises the importance of self-evaluation and understanding one's subconscious drivers. He suggests that many of our actions are influenced by subconscious motivations, and recognising these can help in making more conscious decisions. This process involves looking in the mirror and understanding why certain mistakes were made, which can be challenging but ultimately rewarding.

2. Managing Pressure and Stress: James discusses the distinction between pressure and stress, noting that unhealthy pressure can lead to stress. He advises finding ways to manage this pressure, such as engaging in activities that provide mental and physical relaxation, like golf or meditation. Understanding and using pressure to one's advantage, rather than letting it lead to stress, is crucial for maintaining well-being.

3. Building Relationships and Connections: James highlights the significance of relationships and connections, both personally and professionally. He argues that these are the true creators of success and fulfilment, rather than financial achievements alone. Investing in meaningful relationships can lead to a more balanced and satisfying life, as they are fundamental to personal and professional growth.

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Entrepreneurship, Focus, and Faith with Chris George

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join host Matt Edmundson as he chats with serial entrepreneur Chris George, who has launched seven businesses, including Gentleman’s Box and SubSummit. In this episode, Chris shares insights on the importance of focus in entrepreneurship and how his faith journey over the past year has impacted his life. Discover how Chris balances his entrepreneurial spirit with a deepening relationship with God.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

2:09 The Importance of Focus in Business

6:12 The Impact of Environment on Focus

15:43 Strategic Business Planning with a Top-Down Approach

18:26 Understanding Lead and Lag Measures

25:31 A Return to Faith

28:28 Chris George's Faith Journey

37:23 Faith is the Hope of Things Unseen

50:37 Bringing Faith into Business

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Key Takeaways:

1. The Importance of Focus: Chris emphasises the significance of maintaining focus, especially for entrepreneurs. He advises against falling into the "shiny object syndrome" trap, where one might be tempted to pursue multiple ventures simultaneously. Instead, he suggests dedicating the majority of one's time and energy to a primary goal or business, as this focus is crucial for achieving success.

2. Understanding and Leveraging Environment: Chris discusses how the environment plays a critical role in shaping one's life and work habits. He shares personal insights about how his work environment affects his productivity and efficiency. By identifying where and how one works best, individuals can enhance their focus and output. He also touches on the broader impact of one's upbringing and surroundings on personal development and success.

3. Consistency in Faith and Routine: Chris talks about the transformative power of faith in his life, particularly over the past year. He highlights the importance of consistency in building a relationship with God, comparing it to maintaining a daily routine like brushing teeth. By integrating faith practices into daily life, such as reading the Bible and praying, one can find peace and guidance, which also positively influences business decisions and personal growth.

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

The Life-Giving Power of Communication with Neil Rogers

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join host Matt Edmundson in an engaging conversation with Neil Rogers, author of "Bar Tips: Everything I Needed to Know in Sales I Learned Behind the Bar." Discover Neil's unique insights into sales, marketing, and his personal journey, including the transformative impact of communication technology on his non-speaking son. Don't miss this inspiring episode, and find the full transcript and show notes at pushtobemore.com.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

7:34 The Life-Giving Power of Communication

31:44 Creating a Supportive Environment for Autism

40:11 Neil's Staffing Solution Strategy

43:10 The Law of Attraction in Networking

46:55 The Most Surprising Conversation Neil's Ever Had

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Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Tenacity and Creativity in Problem-Solving: Neil emphasises the importance of tenacity over mere persistence. He suggests that creativity and positivity are crucial in navigating challenges, particularly in the context of special needs education. This approach has been instrumental in his efforts to improve his son's life and can be applied broadly to overcome obstacles in various aspects of life.

2. Harness the Power of Communication and Connection: Neil shares how crucial communication has been in his personal and professional life. From discovering a method for his son to communicate despite his non-verbal condition to networking and finding solutions through conversations, Neil highlights the transformative power of effective communication and building connections.

3. Focus on What You Can Do: Neil and his family have consistently focused on what they can do to improve their son's life, rather than dwelling on limitations. This proactive mindset, coupled with a willingness to explore new avenues and remain positive, has led to significant breakthroughs. This advice encourages others to adopt a similar approach, focusing on actionable steps and maintaining a positive outlook.

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If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Legacy, Loss, and Living Fully

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join Matt Edmundson and Sadaf Beynon on this episode of "Push to Be More" as they discuss the unexpected challenges of life, the importance of keeping family memories alive, and the art of balancing work and personal growth. Discover how Sadaf navigates her multicultural family life and her passion for podcasting with PodJunction. Don't forget to subscribe and visit pushtobemore.com for more insights and episodes.

Key Takeaways:

1. Keeping Short Accounts and Being Present: Sadaf emphasises the importance of maintaining open communication and addressing issues as they arise. She highlights the value of expressing necessary thoughts and feelings, even if they are uncomfortable, to avoid leaving things unsaid. This approach fosters healthier relationships and ensures that important matters are addressed in a timely manner.

2. Adapting to Life's Challenges with Grace: Sadaf shares her experience of dealing with significant family losses and the importance of having a strong foundation of values instilled by her parents. She credits her ability to navigate these challenges to the lessons learned from her parents, such as putting faith first and maintaining a close relationship with family. This underscores the importance of resilience and having a support system during difficult times.

3. Maximising Limited Time for Self-Care: Sadaf discusses the challenge of finding time for herself amidst a busy life with young children. She advises making the most of small moments, like enjoying a coffee in the morning, to recharge. This highlights the importance of adapting self-care practices to fit current life circumstances and recognising that even brief moments can be valuable for personal well-being.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Turning Trials into Triumph

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Push to Be More, Matt Edmundson interviews Nikki Lindgren, a savvy marketer and agency founder. Nikki shares her journey from her small-town upbringing to creating her own agency, Pennock, which focuses on driving growth for seven-figure beauty and lifestyle brands. She discusses the importance of female role models in business, overcoming the challenges of her career, and the struggles of balancing work, family, and personal growth.

Key Takeaways:

Overcoming Challenges Leads to Growth: Nikki emphasised that challenges, such as her struggle to find the right path in her career, shaped her success. Her adaptability, from failed roles to building her own agency, showcases the importance of persistence in achieving long-term goals.
The Power of Female Role Models: Nikki highlighted how female business leaders, like Barbara Corcoran, have inspired her journey. She underscores the value of seeing women succeed in male-dominated industries and how it fuels her drive and approach to business.
Balancing Work and Life: Nikki revealed how she manages the pressures of running a growing business while being a mother of three. She finds energy through activities like running and cycling and ensures she builds a flexible schedule, prioritising family time while maintaining professional growth.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Unlocking Business Growth Through Strategic Alliances

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Push To Be More, host Matt Edmundson speaks with Scott Overbeck, founder of Seacoast Consulting Group, about his journey transitioning from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. They delve into topics such as strategic alliances, business growth, work-life balance, and the challenges of starting a new venture.

Key Takeaways:

Strategic Alliances Drive Growth: Scott emphasises the power of strategic partnerships in business. Rather than spending heavily on acquiring new customers, businesses can leverage alliances with complementary companies to reach their target audience more efficiently.
Work-Life Balance is Crucial but Challenging: Transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship presented challenges in maintaining a work-life balance for Scott. He highlights the importance of seasons in life and business, acknowledging the need to focus intensely on the business at times, but also ensuring a return to balance.
Productivity Through Intentionality: Scott stresses the value of intentional planning and managing time effectively. He shares how sleep, cutting out distractions like alcohol, and using systems such as weekly planning have helped him stay focused and productive in both personal and professional life.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to visit pushtobemore.com and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

How to Build a Million-Dollar Business Alone

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Push to be More, host Matt Edmundson interviews Elaine Pofeldt, author of Tiny Business, Big Money and The Million Dollar One-Person Business. Using sage insights from her books Elaine shares how entrepreneurs, specifically solopreneurs, can grow their business to seven-figures whilst still maintaining a satisfying lifestyle.

Key Takeaways:

Systems and Automation Drive Growth: Elaine emphasises that successful solopreneurs use systems like Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and tech tools to manage their businesses efficiently. These systems allow them to focus on innovation and growth, rather than getting bogged down in daily tasks.
Flexibility and Control Are Key to Success: Entrepreneurship offers the flexibility to balance work and personal life. Elaine highlights how being in control of her own schedule allowed her to juggle family responsibilities while still growing her career, a benefit she encourages others to pursue.
Business Development and Building Relationships Matter: Elaine underscores the importance of prioritising business development and surrounding yourself with the right people. Building strong relationships, hiring well, and dedicating time to growth and development are essential for long-term business success.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make sure to visit pushtobemore.com and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Vulnerability, The Unexpected Key to Success

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Push To Be More, Matt Edmundson interviews Joe Davis, a Managing Director and Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group, about his life and leadership. Together they discuss the importance of mentorship and vulnerability in business, Joe reflects on how being open about your own limitations can foster strong connections and drive success. Joe's advice and mindset offers a refreshing take on vulnerability in the business world and provides listeners with the tools they need to succeed in a high profile career.

Key Takeaways:

The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership: Joe emphasises that showing vulnerability, such as admitting mistakes or uncertainties, can build stronger connections and trust with others. This authenticity is crucial in today’s leadership, as it allows leaders to be more relatable and effective.
The Importance of Mentorship: Joe discusses the profound impact a good mentor can have on one’s career and personal growth. He encourages finding mentors who push you to improve while also having your back, highlighting that mentorship is a two-way street.
Balancing Personal Well-being with Professional Demands: Joe shares that maintaining personal well-being, through activities like running and meditation, is essential for sustaining high performance in a demanding career. He also notes the importance of drawing energy from positive interactions with others to stay motivated and focused.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to visit pushtobemore.com and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Learn Your Way to Success

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this archival episode of Push to be More Matt Edmundson sits down with Zafar Karim for a thrilling conversation. Going from the humble streets of East End London to the prestigious halls of Cambridge University, Zafar exemplifies resilience and success in the tech business world. He has mastered the art of steering fledgling tech IPOs and has a decade long journey in investment banking with titans like Solomon Brothers. Zafar shares his thoughts on self -awareness, the importance of resilience, and how taking responsibility for your circumstances can empower you to make significant changes.

Key Takeaways:

Self-Awareness and Responsibility: Zafar emphasises the importance of self-awareness and taking responsibility for one's circumstances. He believes that understanding and owning one's limitations and decisions can empower significant personal and professional growth. This mindset shift from victimhood to responsibility is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
Intellectual Awakening and Continuous Learning: Zafar shares his journey of intellectual awakening during his time at Cambridge University, where he realized the value of diverse fields such as philosophy, history, and classics. He stresses the importance of continuous self-improvement and lifelong learning, highlighting how this pursuit has been instrumental in his personal and professional development.
Resilience and Adaptability: Resilience is a recurring theme in Zafar's story. He discusses how he navigated challenges from his upbringing in East End London to his career in investment banking and tech entrepreneurship. His attitude towards setbacks, including the financial crisis, is one of perseverance and adaptability, always looking for lessons and opportunities to grow despite difficulties.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to subscribe and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

An Entrepreneurs Journey From Heartache to Health

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this weeks archival episode of Push to be More Host Matt Edmundson sits down with Vision Captured's Dominic Gerleve, for a powerful conversation. Dominic shares his journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a leader in the fitness industry. He talks about the humbling lessons from his early career, the importance of health and fitness and how his father's heart attack was a pivotal moment that fueled his passion for helping others. Dominic's story is all about resilience, learning from failures, and the power of persistence. His insights are a reminder that true success comes from dedication and consistent effort.

Key Takeaways:

Importance of Personal Health Experiences: Dominic's passion for health and fitness was profoundly shaped by his father's heart attack when he was 12 years old. This pivotal moment motivated him to prioritise fitness and health, not only in his own life but also as a career focus. His early start in fitness, inspired by his older brothers, led him to a lifelong commitment to promoting health and wellness.
Resilience and Learning from Failure: Dominic shared how his initial venture into business ended in disaster due to poor paperwork and economic challenges, which ultimately forced him out. However, he viewed this setback as a valuable lesson that humbled him and provided insights that he applies to his current business endeavours. This story highlights the importance of resilience, learning from failures, and adapting for future success.
Creating Sustainable Health Habits: Dominic emphasises the significance of creating sustainable health habits rather than drastic changes. He advocates for incremental adjustments, such as keeping a food journal and gradually modifying eating habits. This approach helps clients build long-term health improvements without overwhelming themselves. Dominic also stresses the need for finding personal motivation and the "why" behind health goals to sustain commitment and overcome doubt.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to subscribe and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Finding Success Through Persistence

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this weeks archival episode of the Push to be More Podcast Host Matt Edmundson sits down for a conversation with Wired Differently creator Todd Saylor. Todd shares his journey from growing up with a legendary high school football coach for a dad to becoming a successful entrepreneur running 14 businesses. He gets into the importance of knowing what you want and going after it. A principle that Todd's father instilled in him early on. From turning a donut shop into the donut capital of the world to helping others build businesses that generate passive income, Todd's story is all about persistence and the entrepreneurial spirit. In a world where quick fixes and instant success are often glorified, Todd's insights remind us that true success comes from showing up, working hard, and staying committed to your goals.

Key Takeaways:

Embrace Persistence and Passion: Todd Saylor's journey exemplifies the power of persistence and passion. From growing up with a high school football coach father to running 14 businesses, Todd emphasises the importance of knowing what you want and relentlessly pursuing it. His transformation of a donut shop into the "donut capital of the world" showcases his commitment to turning passion into impactful action.
Building Resilience and Leadership: Todd's father instilled in him the principles of resilience and leadership. These qualities are evident in Todd's entrepreneurial journey, where he not only built successful businesses but also helped others achieve passive income. His story underscores the importance of showing up, working hard, and staying committed to one's goals, even when facing significant challenges.
Integrating Faith and Business: Faith plays a crucial role in Todd's life and business philosophy. His experiences highlight the intersection of personal beliefs and professional endeavours. From producing a movie about his father's legacy to building a business that aligns with his values, Todd demonstrates how integrating faith with entrepreneurship can lead to meaningful and fulfilling outcomes.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to subscribe and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Become a Resilient Leader

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this weeks archival episode of Push to be More Host Matt Edmundson talks to Ian Finch CEO of Mando Agency. Ian shares his journey from the early days of scraping by to leading a successful digital agency that partners with big names like JCB and British Red Cross. We dive into the ups and downs of running a business, the importance of just showing up and how to push through challenges with resilience and determination. Ian's story is packed with insights about creating a sustainable future for your company and his personal mission to be better today than he was yesterday.

Key Takeaways :

Resilience and Adaptability in Business: Ian Finch emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability in business. He shared his experiences of navigating through significant challenges like the dot-com bubble burst and the 9/11 aftermath, highlighting how his agency had to pivot and find new markets to survive. This resilience and ability to adapt to changing circumstances were crucial to Mando Agency's long-term success.
The Value of Strategic Partnerships: A significant turning point for Mando Agency was the decision to partner with best-of-breed technology providers. This shift allowed them to work with larger clients and deliver more comprehensive solutions. The partnerships with technology providers, such as diagnostic engines for e-learning systems, helped Mando scale and attract clients like United Utilities, Vodafone, and Bentley, demonstrating the power of strategic collaborations.
Importance of Self-Care and Mindfulness for Leaders: Ian Finch discussed his personal journey towards better self-care and mindfulness. He shared how creating space to think, checking in emotionally and spiritually, and engaging in physical activities like yoga and hiking have been crucial for his well-being. This holistic approach to self-care has not only improved his personal life but also enhanced his professional effectiveness, enabling him to add more value to his business.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to subscribe and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

The Art of Just Showing Up

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this weeks episode of Push To Be More we once again dive into the archive to present Matts conversation with Andrew Kelly. Andrew explores the unsexy wisdom of just turning up. It's a lesson that really hits home in a world where everyone seems to be searching for quick fixes and magic bullets. From his days as an elite road cyclist to his current role leading groundbreaking research in Antarctica. Andrew's journey is a testament to the power of persistence and of just showing up no matter what.

Key Takeaways:

The Power of Persistence and Consistency: Andrew Kelly emphasises the importance of persistence and consistency in achieving success. Drawing from his experiences as an elite road cyclist and in his professional career, he highlights the "unsexy wisdom" of just showing up and putting in the effort daily. This approach, he explains, often leads to unexpected opportunities and long-term success, even in challenging and unpredictable environments.
Relevance and Curiosity in Learning: Andrew discusses the significance of curiosity and the ability to discern relevance in the vast amount of information available today. He believes that curiosity drives learning and innovation, and the skill of identifying relevant information is crucial for making informed decisions. This mindset has been instrumental in his work, both in the corporate world and in his current role at the Antarctic Science Foundation.
The Importance of Antarctic Research: Andrew Kelly highlights the critical role of Antarctic research in understanding and addressing global climate change. The Antarctic Science Foundation supports groundbreaking research that provides vital insights into the Earth's climate history and future trends. By drilling ice cores and studying ancient atmospheric conditions, scientists can develop strategies to mitigate climate change's impact. This research is essential not only for scientific advancement but also for informing global policy and conservation efforts.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to subscribe and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Perfect Your Work Life Balance

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this weeks episode, pulled from our extensive archive of excellent episodes, host Matt Edmundson sits down with Neil Morecraft, a high-energy businessman and performance marketeer, to discuss his personal journey through business. With a story that traverses bankruptcy, fostering a child, launching the company Digital Detective and much more, Neil's story is full of vital takeaways for any listener:

Key Takeaways:

The Importance of Mental and Physical Well-being: Neil emphasises how prioritising mental and physical health has been crucial in his journey. He shares practical insights on overcoming negative self-talk and adopting healthier habits, which significantly improved his energy levels and overall outlook on life.
The Power of Self-Reflection and Honesty: Through his candid discussion about his struggles and successes, Neil highlights the importance of being brutally honest with oneself. Recognising what you truly want in life, rather than what you don't want, is essential for personal growth and achieving a fulfilling life.
Balancing Life and Work with the "Power of Six": Neil introduces his "Power of Six" strategy, a methodical approach to creating balance between life and work. This involves focusing on six key areas: mind, body, personal relationships, lifestyle, professional contribution, and financial management. By prioritising these aspects equally, Neil found a sustainable way to achieve success and happiness.

If this episode of Push to be More piqued your interest make to subscribe and keep up to date with everything we do here on the Push to be More Podcast.

Turning Setbacks into Success

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Matt interviews Francisco Gaffney, who has a diverse background in IT, e-commerce, and mergers and acquisitions. Francisco shares his journey from growing up in Argentina to moving to Ireland and eventually starting his own business as well as his interest in helping companies expand globally. Francisco highlights the importance of mindset in finding success and discusses three key attributes that have helped him in the world of business:

The Importance of Resilience: Francisco emphasises the value of resilience in both personal and professional life. He discusses how teaching his children to be resilient has been one of his biggest successes, highlighting that the ability to bounce back from setbacks is crucial for long-term success.
The Role of Ambition and Curiosity: Francisco's journey illustrates the power of ambition and curiosity. From living near a rainforest in Argentina to exploring various industries like IT, e-commerce, and mergers and acquisitions, his drive to learn and grow has been a constant motivator.
Gratitude and Mindfulness: Francisco practices gratitude journaling to stay grounded and focused. This habit helps him appreciate the present moment and maintain a positive outlook, which he believes is essential for personal happiness and professional success.

Whether you're a seasoned business leader or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with wisdom and helpful tips for finding success.

Why I Believe the Key to Success Is Serving Your Employees First with Benjie Craig

Wed, 29 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Push To Be More podcast, Matt enjoys a captivating conversation with Benjie Craig, a Silicon Valley business leader who shares his unique perspective on the power of servant leadership. Benjie discusses his journey from growing up in Pakistan to running a successful contracting business in the Bay Area, and how his experiences have shaped his leadership philosophy.

Discover:

Why Benjie believes that prioritizing employee development is crucial for business success
How a CEO's willingness to perform any task, no matter how small, can transform company culture
The importance of creating an ecosystem where employees coach and mentor each other
Strategies for navigating the ups and downs of the construction industry while keeping your team engaged and motivated
How Benjie's multicultural background has influenced his approach to leadership and fostered a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives

Throughout the episode, Benjie emphasizes the significance of empowering your team and serving their needs to unlock their full potential. He shares practical examples of how he has implemented this philosophy within his own company, Jemby, and the positive impact it has had on employee morale, productivity, and overall business success.

Benjie also delves into his personal practices for staying sharp and focused as a leader, including the power of starting each day with a walk, working with his hands to process thoughts, and intentionally creating space for recharging.

Whether you're a seasoned business leader or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with valuable insights on servant leadership, employee empowerment, and building a thriving company culture.

Don't miss this engaging conversation with Benjie Craig, and discover why he firmly believes that the key to success lies in serving your employees first.

Bioengineering an Unhindered Future with Ugur Tanriverdi

Wed, 15 May 2024 14:00:00 +0000

This week on Push To Be More as we explore the extraordinary life and career of Ugur Tanriverdi, a trailblazing bioengineer whose innovations are setting new standards in wearable robotics and prosthetics. Discover how Ugur's journey from a curious child fascinated by machines to a leading entrepreneur in bioengineering is inspiring and influencing the future of technology and human ability.

In this episode, you will learn about:

Ugur's Early Passions: How a childhood fascination with mechanics and the human body led him to the field of bioengineering.
Overcoming Personal Challenges: Ugur shares his experiences with anxiety and the pivotal role therapy has played in his personal and professional life.
Innovative Breakthroughs: Insights into Ugur’s work at Unhinder, where his team develops cutting-edge prosthetics that enhance human capabilities.
The Role of Failure in Success: How facing and overcoming fears of failure and rejection are crucial for personal growth and professional advancement.
Recharging and Balancing Life: Learn about Ugur’s unique approach to maintaining balance, including engaging in activities like Dungeons and Dragons to foster creativity and relaxation.

Key Takeaways:

The importance of mental health awareness and overcoming stigma in high-pressure environments like entrepreneurship.
The impact of innovative bioengineering on improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Strategies for personal growth and dealing with internal barriers to success.

Connect with Ugur Tanriverdi:

To learn more about Ugur's work and innovations, visit Unhinder's website.
Reach out to Ugur on LinkedIn to connect and follow his ongoing projects and insights.

This episode is proudly powered by Aurion Media, which supports entrepreneurs and business leaders in amplifying their voices through podcasting. Discover how you can start your own podcast by visiting Aurion Media.

Remember to subscribe to Push To Be More on your favourite podcast platform to catch every enlightening episode. Share this episode with someone who could benefit from Ugur’s inspiring journey and the transformative power of bioengineering!

Let us know your thoughts and any questions you might have by leaving a comment below or on our social media channels. We love hearing from our listeners and look forward to bringing you more inspiring stories and powerful insights.

Jump in and Swim with the Sharks: Christian Farioli's Unconventional Approach to Embracing Challenges

Wed, 08 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Push To Be More, host Matt Edmundson sits down with Professor Christian Farioli, the digital marketing trailblazer who has made waves from Google to NASA and beyond. With a captivating story spanning continents and industries, Christian shares his unique philosophy for diving headfirst into life's challenges and emerging victorious.

Discover:

How a single book by Tony Robbins ignited Christian's spirit of adventure and transformed his life trajectory
The power of "20 seconds of insane courage" and its ability to reshape your destiny
Why embracing discomfort and uncertainty is the key to unlocking your full potential
How Christian's boldness and determination propelled him from Oracle to Dubai's digital marketing professor
The importance of adaptability and resilience in navigating the ever-changing business landscape
Christian's secrets for thriving in the face of adversity and turning challenges into opportunities

Throughout the conversation, Christian's infectious energy and unconventional wisdom shine through, offering listeners a fresh perspective on what it takes to succeed in today's fast-paced world. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or simply someone looking to push beyond your comfort zone, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.

So jump in, embrace the unknown, and get ready to swim with the sharks as Professor Christian Farioli shares his remarkable journey and the lessons he's learned along the way. This is one episode you won't want to miss!

Here's Why Leadership Success Starts with Coaching

Wed, 01 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this engaging episode of "Push To Be More," host Matt Edmundson sits down with Vanessa Judelman, a seasoned leader and the dynamic president of Mosaic People Development. They explore the transformative journey of leadership through the lens of coaching, adversity, and conviction. Vanessa shares her personal story of overcoming a challenging work situation and how it propelled her into entrepreneurship and leadership development. If you're looking to elevate your leadership skills or understand the critical importance of coaching in leadership, this episode is packed with insights.

Key Highlights:

Vanessa's Leadership Journey: Discover how a negative experience with a boss inspired Vanessa to start her own business and why she believes good things can emerge from bad situations.
The Essence of Coaching in Leadership: Learn why coaching is more than a skill—it's a fundamental aspect of effective leadership. Vanessa emphasises how coaching can unlock potential, foster growth, and lead to team success.
Conviction as a Leadership Superpower: Understand the role of conviction in leadership decision-making. Vanessa discusses how leaders can navigate complex challenges with grace and make transformative decisions for their teams and organisations.

Key Takeaways:

Adversity can be a catalyst for personal and professional growth.
Coaching is crucial for unlocking team members' potential and fostering an environment of learning and development.
Leadership is not about wielding authority but empowering others to realise their full potential.
Conviction and a growth mindset are essential traits for navigating the complexities of modern leadership.

Join us in this deep dive as Vanessa Judelman illuminates the path to becoming a more effective, empowering, and successful leader. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned executive, or somewhere in between, this episode offers valuable lessons on the importance of coaching skills in leadership.

Remember to subscribe to "Push To Be More" on your favorite podcast platform to get insights, links, and the complete transcript of our conversation directly to your inbox. And don't forget, leadership success starts with coaching!

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For more insights and resources, visit our website at pushtobemore.com and explore the transformative power of leadership with us.

Revive Your Business: Proven Secrets to Transform Underperformers

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join host Matt Edmundson as he talks with Stephen Whyte, an investor and business turnaround expert, on this week's episode of "Push To Be More." Stephen shares his experiences and insights on steering underperforming businesses towards profitability, the importance of effective leadership, and personal anecdotes that highlight his entrepreneurial journey.

Key Discussion Points:

Introduction to Stephen Whyte:

Background: Explore Stephen's journey in the B2B software sector and his recent shift from QADEX to NED Holdings.
Business Transformation: Insight into his effective strategies for revitalizing struggling businesses.

The Inspiration Behind Leadership:

Past Experiences: Understand how Stephen’s previous roles shaped his leadership style.
Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC): Discussion on the crucial role of GRC in maintaining the integrity and profitability of businesses.

Strategic Moves and Business Philosophy:

QADEX Exit and NED Holdings Leadership: Stephen explains his strategic departure from QADEX and his new leadership dynamics at NED Holdings.
Project Make Stephen Redundant: A unique initiative aimed at empowering teams and fostering business growth through autonomy.

Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations:

Work-Life Balance: Insights into managing personal life and career, including the transition to becoming an "empty nester."
Future Plans: Stephen shares his aspirations for the future and the strategic direction of NED Holdings after moving back to Ireland.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

Entrepreneurial Challenges: Addressing common hurdles like imposter syndrome and the importance of perseverance in entrepreneurship.

Stephen Whyte leaves us with profound lessons on leadership and the transformative power of effective governance and strategic foresight in business. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation, full of actionable insights for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills or steer a business towards success.

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Listen to this week’s episode of "Push To Be More" to gain from Stephen Whyte's invaluable experiences and forward-thinking business strategies!

#BusinessTurnaround #LeadershipInsights #Entrepreneurship #StrategicLeadership

Discovering My Superpower: The Unexpected Gifts of Neurodiversity

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this insightful episode of 'Push To Be More,' host Matt Edmundson engages in a conversation with Staeven Frey, exploring the intriguing and often misunderstood realm of neurodiversity. Staeven shares his personal journey of discovering his neurodiverse identity and the transformative insights it has brought to his life.

Show Notes:

Introduction to Neurodiversity

Staeven Frey discusses his path to understanding his neurodiverse identity.
The importance of recognising neurodiversity in shaping individual experiences.

Childhood and Adult Experiences

Reflections on how a late diagnosis provided clarity on past life events.
The role of neurodiversity in understanding personal interactions and professional endeavors.

The Dual Desire for Uniqueness and Normalcy

Exploring the human need to feel both special and part of a community.
How neurodiversity fulfills these desires in unique ways.

The Power of Self-Acceptance

Embracing neurodiverse traits as a source of strength.
Staeven’s insights on turning perceived weaknesses into advantages.

Human Connectedness and Neurodiversity

Finding common ground in our differences.
The role of shared experiences in building a sense of belonging.

Thriving with Neurodiversity

Practical advice on leveraging neurodiverse traits in personal and professional life.
Staeven's approach to creating environments conducive to his neurodiverse needs.

Join us in this episode as we get into the heart of what it means to be neurodiverse and discover the unexpected gifts it can bring to our lives. Staeven’s story is not just about understanding neurodiversity; it's a journey towards embracing the full spectrum of human experience.

Tune in to this enriching conversation and uncover the superpowers hidden within our unique minds.

#PushToBeMore #Neurodiversity #MentalHealthAwareness #PodcastLife

Transforming Trauma into Triumph

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Step into an extraordinary tale of resilience and self-discovery with Jake Kauffman, as he shares his journey from a life-altering brain injury to a path of authentic transformation. Uncover the essence of overcoming adversity and redefining what it means to live a fulfilling life.

Join us as we explore Jake Kauffman's extraordinary journey of overcoming significant life challenges. In this episode, we discuss his insights on transforming inner pain, the powerful themes from his book "Let Love In," and the impact of social media on self-perception. Kauffman's experiences shed light on the process of 'unbecoming' to reconnect with our true selves, the cultural obsession with productivity, and the real essence of personal fulfillment.

Key Takeaways:

Embracing Inner Transformation: Jake Kauffman's recovery from a traumatic brain injury serves as a powerful testament to confronting and healing inner pain. His story emphasizes that true transformation and reaching our full potential often stem from life's most challenging experiences, urging us to reevaluate our lives and identities.
The Journey of 'Unbecoming': Kauffman's philosophy revolves around the concept of 'unbecoming' - shedding societal expectations and false identities to return to our authentic selves. This process, as discussed in his book "Let Love In," highlights the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in achieving personal success and fulfillment.
Redefining Success in the Social Media Era: The episode also delves into the impact of social media on our self-perception and the cultural pressure for constant productivity. Jake and Matt explore how embracing our true, vulnerable selves can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life, countering the often misleading portrayals of success on social platforms.

Charting a Course to Success: An Entrepreneurial Odyssey

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Explore the exhilarating world of entrepreneurship with John St. Pierre from Entrepreneurs United as he shares his rollercoaster journey of building a $50 million venture, facing dramatic losses, and bouncing back stronger than ever. It's a tale of resilience, reflection, and realigning life and business goals.

This episode features John St. Pierre in a candid conversation with Matt Edmundson, where John reveals the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial journey. From the rise and fall of a multi-million dollar venture to his upcoming book "The 100 Million Dollar Journey," John's story is a masterclass in facing adversity and thriving in the business world. Grab your notepad, as you're about to learn the art of setting goals, finding purpose, and maintaining balance in life and work.

Key Takeaways:

The Power of Resilience in Business: John's journey underscores the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship. His experiences with the dramatic growth and loss of his ventures serve as a vivid reminder that success often comes with its share of setbacks. This part of the discussion is a valuable lesson in not just surviving but thriving through the ups and downs of business.
Self-Reflection as a Tool for Success: John emphasizes daily self-reflection, starting each day afresh with thoughts and plans. His unique approach of jotting down ideas every morning for 20 minutes has been transformative. This practice underlines the significance of self-awareness and strategic thinking in personal and professional growth.
Aligning Business Goals with Personal Values: A crucial aspect of John's philosophy is setting a 'True North' life plan and aligning business strategies with personal life goals. This approach is a guiding light for entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of not losing sight of one's personal values and objectives amidst business pursuits.

Hacking Life: Cybersecurity and Beyond

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Dive into an intriguing conversation with Linn Boo, a trailblazer in cybersecurity, as she shares her unique journey from Essex to Newquay, battles with self-doubt, and her innovative approach to work-life balance. Discover how she juggles her love for the environment, furniture-making, and leading a cybersecurity firm.

Join us in this captivating episode where Linn Boo, the founder of Boo Consulting, unravels her life story, career in cybersecurity, and personal philosophies. Host Matt Edmundson delves into Linn's experiences, from relocating for a dream lifestyle to her pioneering efforts in people-first cybersecurity. Get inspired by Linn's approach to productivity, work-life balance, and ethical hacking.

Key Takeaways:

Life and Career Transition: Linn Boo shares her transformative journey from Essex to Newquay, driven by her passion for the environment. She discusses how embracing change and following her instincts has been crucial in her career, especially in the dynamic field of cybersecurity.
Work-Life Harmony and Productivity: Linn emphasizes the importance of balancing professional and personal life. She advocates for a four-day workweek at her company and indulges in hobbies like furniture-making and gardening. These practices, she believes, are key to recharging and maintaining high productivity.
Cybersecurity Insights: As a seasoned expert, Linn offers practical advice on cybersecurity, such as creating strong passwords and the ethical aspects of hacking. Her insights extend to the challenges and rewards of running Boo Consulting, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and trust in one's instincts in cybersecurity.

From Non-Profit to Digital Marketing Maverick: A Journey of Authenticity and Growth

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Dive into the inspiring journey of Brooke Sellas, from her roots in non-profit work to founding a successful digital marketing agency. Discover how authenticity and personal values shape not just a business, but an entire life journey.

In this episode, we chat with Brooke Sellas, CEO of B Squared Media, about her fascinating transition from non-profit organisations to leading a digital marketing empire. Brooke shares her experiences of relocating, embracing authenticity in business, and the impact of personal relationships on her career path. We also explore the role of brands in social issues and get personal with Brooke’s love for horseback riding and her dreams for the future.

Key Takeaways:

The Power of Authenticity: Brooke discusses her initial reluctance to be labeled as "likable" in a professional setting. She later realizes that her genuine personality and ability to authentically connect with people are crucial assets, teaching us the importance of embracing our true selves in our careers.
Aligning Values with Business: The conversation highlights how brands like Nike and Patagonia resonate with their audiences by standing firm on social issues. Brooke's insights into the alignment of personal and brand values offer a fresh perspective on how businesses can genuinely connect with consumers.
Life’s Influence on Career Paths: Brooke's move from Texas to the Northeast and her passion for horseback riding are not just personal anecdotes but pivotal moments influencing her professional journey. These stories underscore the significance of personal decisions and relationships in shaping our professional trajectories.

Embracing the Zen of Entrepreneurship

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Discover how Mario Lanzarotti transitioned from a phase of intense self-doubt to creating the groundbreaking Zenpreneur Method, transforming the very essence of entrepreneurship.

This episode takes you through the riveting story of Mario Lanzarotti's personal and professional metamorphosis. From facing a life-altering realization that halted his pilot career to finding his true calling, Mario's journey is a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity. Learn about his Zenpreneur Method, a philosophy that challenges the traditional hustle of entrepreneurship, and how podcasting has been a vital tool in his growth and connection-building.

Key Takeaways:

The Epiphany: Mario's story is a striking example of self-reinvention. His shift from aspiring pilot to a visionary entrepreneur underscores the importance of aligning one's career with their true self, even when it means leaving behind long-held dreams.
Zenpreneur Method: Mario advocates for a balanced entrepreneurial lifestyle, emphasizing the need to avoid burnout. His approach is a refreshing contrast to the usual hustle culture, focusing on effectiveness and mindfulness in business practices.
Power of Podcasting: Mario's personal growth and the evolution of his "Zenpreneur Podcast" highlight the significant role of podcasting in learning, networking, and personal development. His experience underlines the impact of sharing and absorbing insights through this dynamic medium.

Unlocking Life's Richness

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Dive into a riveting conversation with Matthew Brackett, a modern-day Renaissance man, as he unravels the tapestry of his life, from being one of 13 children to navigating the realms of leadership, culture, and personal growth. Join us in exploring how a diverse upbringing and a life of introspection shape one’s worldview and professional approach.

In this episode, we sit down with the multifaceted Matthew Brackett from Brackett Alliance. With experiences ranging from the Navy to executive coaching, Matthew embodies a unique blend of personal and professional wisdom. We delve into his fascinating life story, discussing the impact of a large family, cultural immersion, and the transformative journey from ministry to leadership. His insights on self-awareness, the power of podcasting, and balancing life's complexities offer invaluable lessons for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of life and leadership.

Key Takeaways:

The Mosaic of Life Experiences: Matthew's journey underscores the richness that diverse life experiences bring to leadership roles. From his upbringing in a large family to his time in the Navy and his various cultural experiences, each chapter has contributed to his holistic understanding of human dynamics and effective leadership.
Personal Growth and Self-Awareness: A key theme in Matthew's narrative is the importance of introspection and self-awareness. His transition from ministry to coaching reveals the complexities of identity and the impact of major life decisions. This story resonates with anyone facing their own crossroads in life and career.
The Transformative Power of Storytelling: Matthew's use of podcasting as a tool for connection and personal expression illustrates the medium's potential beyond mere marketing. His journey highlights how sharing experiences can foster community, amplify voices, and promote personal and professional growth.

Resilience and Recharge: Monica's Tale of Triumph

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join us as Monica Sharma-Patnekar shares her inspiring journey through personal hurdles, professional transitions, and the profound influence of her mother on her life.

In this episode, Matt Edmundson chats with Monica Sharma-Patnekar, a branding expert and devoted mother. Monica delves into her experiences of overcoming racist bullying faced by her daughter, her husband's battle with burnout, and her own journey through panic attacks and self-discovery. She shares the strength she draws from her mother's remarkable life story and how it shaped her. This conversation is a deep dive into resilience, parental influence, and finding peace amidst life's storms.

Three Takeaways:

1. Monica's Reflection on Personal Growth and Family Challenges: Monica opens up about her daughter's experiences with racist bullying, her husband's struggle with burnout, and her own battle with panic attacks. These challenges led her to a journey of self-care and growth, emphasising the importance of addressing emotional health and seeking help when needed.

2. Influence of Monica's Mother: A significant part of the discussion revolves around the extraordinary life of Monica's mother. Her resilience as a single mother in a foreign country and her success against numerous odds greatly influenced Monica's perspectives on life, teaching her the values of hard work, determination, and the ability to overcome adversity.

3. The Power of Nature and Simple Pleasures: Monica shares a transformative experience during a family trip to the mountains in India, highlighting the healing power of nature. She also stresses the importance of simple joys like reading, dancing, and spending time with loved ones as essential components of her self-care routine.

Navigating Success and Stoicism

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join us as we explore LaSean Smith's remarkable journey from the U.S. Navy to becoming an influential figure in business and AI. Dive into his unique philosophy of professional stoicism, entrepreneurial insights, and the art of knowing oneself in this enlightening conversation with host Matt Edmundson.

In this episode, Matt Edmundson converses with LaSean Smith, a versatile professional with experiences ranging from the U.S. Navy to the tech world. They discuss overcoming life's challenges, personal growth strategies, and the importance of a values-driven approach in business and life. LaSean shares his insights on AI, business optimization, and his personal mantra of "Know thyself, make things, stay free."

Key Takeaways:

LaSean's Philosophy of Professional Stoicism: LaSean Smith introduces his concept of professional stoicism, focusing on controlling what's within one's power. This approach helps him navigate the challenges of life and business, emphasizing the need to understand oneself and stay true to personal values in decision-making.
Impact of AI on Business and Personal Growth: The conversation highlights the critical role of AI in modern business processes. LaSean shares his perspective on how businesses need to adapt and optimise in the age of AI. He also talks about competing against oneself as a key to personal growth and success.
The Journey to Financial Independence: LaSean discusses the importance of business ownership as a path to financial freedom. He reflects on learning from the unfulfilled dreams of everyday people and identifies common barriers in entrepreneurial journeys. His offer of free coaching and mentoring underscores his commitment to helping others achieve business efficiency and success.

From Talent Scouting to Tech Trends

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Tune in to an enlightening conversation with Freddie Potter, the influential force behind Scope Personnel and Off The Chain, as he unveils his unique life story and essential lessons from the recruitment and crypto worlds. Discover his strategies for continual growth in this captivating episode!

Join us for an engaging episode with Freddie Potter, a standout in recruitment and the crypto blockchain industry. Freddie opens up about his intriguing journey, discussing how he differentiates himself in the tough recruitment sector, transitions into the dynamic crypto market, and the life philosophies guiding him. Highlighting the impact of "The Secret" by Rhonda Byrne, Freddie explores how this key book shaped his outlook. Plus, hear his thoughts on the importance of podcasting in modern business, courtesy of Aurion Media.

Key Takeaways:

Innovative Recruitment Strategies: Freddie Potter highlights the critical role of forging strong relationships and introducing unique services in the recruitment industry. His tactics for distinguishing himself in a competitive arena offer insightful strategies applicable across various careers.
Insights into the Crypto Market: Freddie's venture into the crypto blockchain space exemplifies his knack for identifying and adapting to emerging markets. He shares his experiences and knowledge, providing listeners with a detailed view of the challenges and prospects in this evolving sector.
Philosophy of Personal Growth: Freddie reflects on how "The Secret" impacted his views on life and achievement, offering insight into his journey of self-development. His story serves as an inspiring example of how early influences can profoundly affect one's approach to overcoming both personal and professional hurdles.

Navigating Life's Challenges: A Story of Resilience and Growth

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Step into an inspiring journey of overcoming life's hurdles with resilience expert Danielle Cobo. From personal upheavals to finding unstoppable grit, learn how to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and transformation.

Brief Description:

In this engaging episode, we sit down with Danielle Cobo, a resilience guru, podcaster, and soon-to-be author. Join us as we explore her remarkable journey through personal adversities, her insights from being both a podcast host and guest, and a sneak peek into her upcoming book "Unstoppable Grit."

Key Takeaways:

Embracing Change Through Personal Struggles: Danielle shares her profound experiences, from coping with her husband's military deployment and the loss of her mother to navigating corporate upheavals. These pivotal moments led her to a life-altering path of personal development and helping others find their resilience.
The Podcast Experience from Both Sides of the Mic: Gain a unique perspective on podcasting as Matt and Danielle discuss the differences and preparations involved in hosting and guesting. Their exchange offers valuable insights into the world of podcast creation and participation.
Resilience as a Military Spouse and Author: Discover the resilience and adaptability required as a military spouse, a theme central to Danielle's life and her podcast "Unstoppable Grit." Her upcoming book of the same name promises to be a powerful resource, packed with lessons and inspirations drawn from her journey.

Journey Beyond the Court: A Path from Basketball to Mindful Leadership

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Step into the extraordinary life of Ryan Vaughn, a former aspiring NBA player turned tech CEO, as he unfolds his transformative journey with Matt Edmundson. From basketball courts to tech innovation and the power of meditation, explore how Ryan reshaped his identity and leadership style.

In this captivating episode, Matt Edmundson converses with Ryan Vaughn of Inside Out Leadership, exploring Ryan's unique life story. From pursuing NBA dreams to leading a tech company, Ryan's narrative is a compelling tale of self-discovery, confronting fears, and embracing change. Join us as we delve into the pivotal moments of his life, including an extended sabbatical that redefined his approach to life and leadership.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Power of Transition: Ryan Vaughn's journey from an aspiring basketball player to a tech founder highlights the fluidity of life paths. His story emphasizes the importance of embracing change and finding new passions, showing how our dreams and goals can evolve over time.

2. Embracing Vulnerability in Leadership: Ryan's experience underlines the significance of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership. His battles with imposter syndrome and the realization that showing vulnerability can be a strength provide valuable insights into the essence of modern leadership.

3. The Role of Self-Reflection: Ryan's 18-month sabbatical, dedicated to meditation and introspection, illustrates the transformative power of self-reflection. This period was crucial in helping him confront personal fears and beliefs, significantly impacting his relationships and professional life, and offering a compelling testament to the value of dedicating time for inner growth.

From Occult to Optimism: Johanna's Journey of Transformation

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In this enlightening episode, join Matt Edmundson as he dives into Johanna Wilson's extraordinary transition from an occult background to embracing Christianity, and her passionate commitment to philanthropy and living purposefully.

Get ready to be inspired by Johanna Wilson's incredible story on this episode of "Push To Be More." Hear about her shift from merely making a living to leading a life filled with purpose and service. Discover how she intertwines her faith, business acumen, and philanthropy to combat child trafficking and support charitable causes. Matt Edmundson, alongside Johanna, also explores the crucial role of podcasting in amplifying meaningful voices and fostering community.

Key Takeaways:

Johanna's Personal Transformation: Johanna opens up about her intriguing journey from her past involvement in the occult to finding solace and direction in Christianity. Her story is a testament to the power of faith in overcoming life's challenges and finding a new path.
Philanthropy and Business Integration: Delve into Johanna's passion for philanthropy, especially in fighting child trafficking. She shares valuable insights into how businesses can incorporate charitable endeavors into their practices, making philanthropy a cornerstone of their operations.
Podcasting's Impact and Character Development: Matt Edmundson highlights the transformative effect of podcasting in marketing and community building. The discussion also touches on the significance of character development, navigating life changes, and the role of faith and prayer in personal growth, offering listeners profound lessons in resilience and generosity.

Connecting Through Podcasts: Noemi Beres' Journey in Digital Storytelling

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Dive into the world of podcasting with Noemi Beres, where digital marketing meets heartfelt stories. Join us as we explore her unique path from Danish literature to podcasting, uncovering the art of balancing life, business, and creativity.

In this episode, we sit down with Noemi Beres, co-owner of Podcast Connections, to unravel her multifaceted journey. From her early days in online marketing to her creative expression through hand-sewn collages, Noemi shares her insights on building connections in the podcasting realm and beyond. We'll discuss the impact of personal stories in marketing, the power of podcasting as a tool for service, and the pursuit of balance in life and business.

Key Takeaways:

Noemi's Evolution: Starting in online marketing in 2007, Noemi's transition to podcasting showcases the dynamic nature of digital landscapes. Her background in Danish literature and artistic pursuits highlight the importance of diverse experiences in shaping a unique career path.
Podcasting as a Marketing Tool: The conversation with Noemi sheds light on how podcasting goes beyond mere promotion. Drawing from Bob Berg's "The Go-Giver," they emphasize the value of sharing personal stories and focusing on service and contribution, illustrating how podcasting can create deep, trust-based connections.
Personal Growth and Balance: Noemi's move from Ireland to Cyprus, her approach to parenting, and her engagement with art and exercise underscore the significance of finding balance and self-care. Her journey is a testament to the importance of integrating personal well-being into professional success, resonating with listeners striving for a harmonious life.

From Football Fields to Business Deals

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join us on this riveting episode of 'Push To Be More' as we explore the fascinating world of Todd Saylor, a man who's mastered the art of turning life's challenges into stepping stones for success. From his inspiring journey of personal transformation to becoming a multifaceted entrepreneur, Todd shares invaluable insights on integrating faith with business, the power of diverse experiences, and the profound impact of mentorship. Tune in to discover how you too can harness your inner strength, align your values with your career, and lead a life that's not just successful, but also deeply fulfilling. Don't miss this chance to learn from a true agent of change who's redefining what it means to be wired differently!

Key Takeaways:

Embracing a Multifaceted Entrepreneurial Spirit: Todd Saylor's journey underscores the importance of versatility and adaptability in entrepreneurship. From coaching, running 14 businesses, to being involved in a movie production about his father, his path demonstrates how diverse experiences can enrich one's professional and personal life. This varied background not only contributes to personal growth but also offers a broader perspective in business and life.
Integrating Faith and Professional Pursuits: Todd's story highlights the significant role that faith can play in shaping personal and business ethics. His conversion and deep belief in the principles of Christianity have profoundly influenced his decision-making processes, business ethics, and interpersonal relationships. This integration of faith into everyday business practices emphasises the value of aligning personal beliefs with professional actions for a more fulfilling life journey.
The Importance of Mentoring and Coaching in Personal Development: Todd's emphasis on the role of mentoring, whether it's lessons from his father or his own role as a coach, underscores the power of guidance and inspiration in personal and professional development. His commitment to motivating others with a persuasive skill set, as well as his emphasis on helping others make informed decisions, illustrates the profound impact that effective mentoring can have on individual growth and success.

Resilience Redefined: Krystalore's Path from Adversity to Achievement

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Step into the inspiring saga of Krystalore Crews, where each obstacle paves the way for extraordinary achievements. Witness how she transforms life’s toughest challenges into victories, inspiring a journey of resilience and empowerment.

Join us in this heartening episode as we explore Krystalore Crews' remarkable journey. Spanning her time in the US Air Force to her trials as an entrepreneur, Krystalore shares invaluable insights on overcoming adversity, embracing health and wellness, and leading with heart. Her story is not just about personal transformation; it's a call to action, inspiring others to cruise beyond their limits.

Key Takeaways:

1. Transforming Adversity into Strength: Krystalore's story is a testament to human resilience. Overcoming challenges like a debilitating illness and personal struggles, she teaches us the power of determination and the importance of rebuilding oneself from the ground up.

2. The Fusion of Professional Experience and Personal Belief: As a veteran, former NFL cheerleader, and entrepreneur, Krystalore embodies diverse experiences. She uses these to fuel her philosophy on health and wellness, showing us how dedication to our well-being can propel us forward in all life's arenas.

3. Empowerment Through Leadership: Krystalore's heart-centered approach to leadership is both refreshing and empowering. Her vision of igniting the will in others serves as a reminder that we all have the potential to be agents of change in our health and lives.

From Digital Dreams to Woodwork Wonders

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Discover the Secrets to Thriving in Digital Marketing & Balancing Life Beyond Screens!

Rich Brooks chats about thriving in digital marketing with a twist – he also dives into his hobbies like woodworking and gardening. Rich's story isn't just about business; it's about finding balance and making a positive impact, especially with initiatives like scholarships for students of color. Tune in for a relaxed yet insightful conversation that mixes professional wisdom with personal passions.

Key Takeaways:

Adaptability in Business: Rich emphasises the importance of staying adaptable and evolving with technology in the digital marketing industry. His experience highlights how businesses can thrive by embracing change, particularly during unexpected situations like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Personal Well-Being and Hobbies: Rich underlines the value of having hobbies outside of work, such as gardening and woodworking, to maintain a healthy work-life balance. These activities help him recharge and offer a contrast to his professional life, demonstrating the importance of personal well-being for overall success.
Positive Social Impact and Business Ethics: The conversation reflects Rich's commitment to using his business as a force for good. Initiatives like the scholarship for students of color and his views on creating a value-driven company culture show the significance of corporate social responsibility and ethical entrepreneurship.

An Entrepreneur's Journey from Belfast's Strife to Boardroom Success

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Join us on this compelling journey with David Johnston, as he navigates from the challenges of Belfast to the pinnacles of business success.

In this episode, we trace David's path from the strife-torn streets of Belfast to the heights of corporate leadership and uncover the lessons learned amidst adversity and how they fuelled his success in the world of business. From leading a B2B publishing team to scaling new heights in mergers and acquisitions, David's story is a powerful testament to the role of personal history in shaping a successful business mindset. Join us as we explore the intersection of past experiences with present triumphs, offering insights not just into business strategy, but into the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in today's fast-paced world.

Key Takeaways:

1. Versatile Career Path: David's transition from a legal background to leading a B2B publishing team demonstrates the value of adaptability and diverse skill sets in today's business world. His journey is a testament to the importance of embracing change and leveraging varied experiences to drive success.

2. Strategic Business Growth: Johnston's experience in scaling a business from £4 million to £120 million offers practical lessons in understanding competitors, innovating in marketing, and managing growth. His insights highlight the critical elements of business development and the evolving role of technology in this process.

3. Work-Life Harmony: Beyond business acumen, David's involvement in choral singing and founding "24, Venti Quattro" choir underscores the importance of personal interests and hobbies for wellbeing. His approach to balancing professional endeavors with personal passions offers a refreshing perspective on maintaining mental health and overall happiness.

Uninformed Optimism To Informed Success

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Hey listeners, get ready for a fascinating chat on Push To Be More with Ricky Knight, Founder of Fitter Body Ladies. In this episode, Matt Edmundson sits down with Knight to explore his unique journey from the finance sector right into the heart of the fitness industry. They touch on everything from the tough challenges of the pandemic to expanding a thriving fitness franchise. Expect loads of real-world tips and some heartfelt advice for budding entrepreneurs.

Key Takeaways:

1. Embracing the Unknown: Ricky Knight's story is a testament to the power of resilience in the face of uncertainty. His experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic underscore the necessity of adaptability in business, as he navigated abrupt changes and unpredictable circumstances, reminding listeners that flexibility can be their biggest asset in tumultuous times.

2. A Journey of Transformation: Knight's shift from finance to fitness is not just a career change but a narrative of personal passion meeting market need. His response to his wife's post-pregnancy fitness challenges led to the birth of Fitter Body Ladies, showcasing how personal experiences can often spark innovative business ideas.

3. The Growth Mindset: The expansion of Fitter Body Ladies to multiple locations highlights Knight's strategic approach to business growth. His emphasis on understanding marketing, particularly in paid advertising, and the influence of "The E-Myth" in systemizing business operations offer invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs in scaling their ventures effectively.

Resilience Unleashed: Finding Balance Amidst Business Chaos

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Join Matt Edmundson and Byron Morrison as they discuss how to thrive in the midst of business upheaval. Learn how to tackle burnout, harness the power of podcasting, and achieve a fulfilling work-life balance, all while fostering personal and professional growth.

In this episode, we get into the challenges of entrepreneurial burnout and the transformative role of podcasting in marketing. Byron Morrison shares valuable insights on overcoming mental obstacles, the essential practice of self-care, and strategies for achieving a harmonious balance between professional commitments and personal life.

Key Takeaways:

1. Confronting Burnout Head-On: Byron Morrison opens up about his personal struggle with burnout, highlighting its subtle yet impactful symptoms in entrepreneurs. He underlines the importance of recognising and addressing these symptoms to safeguard one's health, relationships, and business health.

2. Reframing Fear For Success: Learn how entrepreneurs often become hindered by their own fears, such as the fear of failure or rejection. Byron offers effective strategies to reshape these fears, motivating listeners to take decisive action towards their ambitions and overcome psychological barriers.

3. The Power Of Disconnecting: In our digitally dominated era, Matt and Byron emphasise the significance of disconnecting. They explore how stepping away from technology and prioritising family time and self-care can significantly enhance mental well-being and strengthen personal relationships.

Green Growth And Well-being

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Unravel the true essence of sustainability in the business world with Irfan, a trailblazer confronting the realities of 'green' marketing. Are companies genuinely committed to the environment, or is it all just savvy marketing? Uncover the truth behind the green movement and discover how profit and purpose can coexist.

This thought-provoking episode looks at the intricate balance between sustainability, business ethics, and the drive for profit. Our guest, Irfan, shares his insightful perspectives on the green movement's rise in popularity and the sincerity behind companies' environmental claims.

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ABOUT IRFAN

Irfan Lohiya, Founder, MD, and mastermind headhunter behind Green Recruitment Solutions. He is passionate about making the world a better place by combating climate change through his work in recruitment.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Finding Growth in the Crypto Industry

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

From navigating the wild frontier of cryptocurrency to finding zen in a poker game—discover how Jeff Hancock, the CEO of CoinPass, masters the art of balance in a world where money never sleeps.

In this episode:

Host Matt Edmundson discusses various topics including exploring growth, balancing priorities, and the future vision with guest Jeff. They delve into personal and business goals for the next five to ten years.
The conversation also touches on the versatility and benefits of cryptocurrencies in different industries, as well as long-term investment strategies like dollar cost averaging and capitalizing on market dips.
The importance of staying informed and finding reliable sources of knowledge in the crypto space is emphasized. They recommend starting with a small investment and gradually learning and experimenting.
The podcast also explores the challenges of incorporating podcasting into marketing strategies and highlights the power of podcasting as a marketing tool. It opens doors to new connections, networks, and opportunities for entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Additionally, the video briefly touches on the host's personal experiences with in-person poker and the enjoyment he finds in the game. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of maintaining hobbies and finding a balance between work and personal interests.

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ABOUT JEFF

Jeff is a crypto enthusiast with a background in cybersecurity, but before he found his calling in the world of crypto, he spent time working in the casino and finance industry. In 2017, during the first crypto bull-run, Jeff saw the need for a better way for UK users to trade crypto and founded coinpass.com with his co-founders. With a passion for blurring the line between crypto and finance, Jeff is dedicated to making crypto accessible and safe for everyone.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Leading in Flux: How to Thrive Amidst Market Dynamics and Challenges

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Are you ready to thrive amidst market dynamics and challenges? Join in as we look at the strategies and insights that can help us navigate the ever-changing business landscape.

In this episode of "Push To Be More" with host Matt Edmundson chats with Steve Preston from Heat Recruitment about his experiences and strategies for thriving in a dynamic market. They discuss topics such as recharging batteries, the benefits of podcasting for entrepreneurs, and the importance of maintaining company culture.

Stepping Off the Beaten Path: A Dropout's Journey to Digital Success

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Discover this untold journey of a dropout-turned-digital success story as we jump into the remarkable story of Ben Heath, a dropout who defied all odds to achieve digital success. From running ads to networking and content creation, Ben shares his experiences and insights on how he discovered his path to success.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Ben built his digital advertising agency around his personal brand, something that he says was not intentional but rather a result of early successes. This has been both a strength and a limitation for his business.
Much of Ben's client acquisition success is tied to the content he produces on platforms like Instagram. Potential clients often become actual clients after watching his educational videos, reinforcing the impact of his personal brand.
Despite its advantages, Ben admits that relying so heavily on his personal brand makes the business less scalable and more difficult to sell. He also notes that it could pigeonhole him into being seen as just "the Facebook Ads guy," limiting his ability to expand into broader categories.
When asked what he would do if he only had a year to live, Ben says he would spend the year traveling with his wife and son. Matt also shares his own family travel experiences, emphasizing the importance of creating memories.
Both Matt and Ben reflect on how having children has changed their lives, including their travel plans. Matt discusses his tradition of "Dads and Lads" trips with his children, and Ben is inspired to consider similar adventures for his own family as his son grows up.

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ABOUT BEN

Ben Heath, the maestro of digital advertising, captivating content creator, and the fearless Founder/CEO of Heath Media! This digital virtuoso knows how to weave magic in the digital sphere, turning bland pixels into breathtaking campaigns. Strap in for the ride with Ben, because in the world of online advertising, he's the daredevil at the steering wheel!

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Goonies Unearthed: A House that Shaped an Era

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Uncover the hidden secrets and nostalgic treasures of the iconic Goonies house in this captivating episode of "Goonies Unearthed: The House that Shaped an Era." Check out the fascinating history behind this legendary movie set and discover how it continues to impact pop culture today.

In this episode we explore the enduring legacy of the beloved 1980s film, The Goonies. Step inside the iconic Goonies house and witness the magic that unfolded within its walls. From behind-the-scenes stories to exclusive interviews with the cast and crew, we uncover the untold tales and hidden treasures that have made The Goonies a timeless classic.

Some of what is covered in this episode:

Behman is introduced as a serial entrepreneur and pop culture enthusiast. He discusses his passion for collecting and his love for the Goonies movie.
The Goonies house has become a popular tourist attraction. Behman shares his goal of positively impacting the world through the love of the Goonies movie and the house. Plans for a TV deal and ways to share ownership of the house are discussed, including the idea of selling shares to allow people to claim ownership and visit the house.
The challenges of managing the Goonies house as a tourist destination are addressed, including the dangerous driveway and the desire to create an immersive experience for fans. Behman emphasizes the importance of community involvement and brainstorming creative solutions.

Driven by Legacy: Vladimer's Relentless Pursuit of Excellence and Gratitude

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Behind every entrepreneur's success lies a tale of relentless grind, unwavering determination, and unseen sacrifices. Dive into Vladimer's journey, where tennis legends mirror business strategies and parental sacrifices shape global ambitions. Are you playing the right mental game?

Balancing Productivity and Leisure: Modern Work's Paradigm Shift

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Is the secret to skyrocketing productivity and pursuing your passion wrapped up in a four-day workweek? Join us as we unravel the unconventional wisdom that's turning the 9-to-5 world on its head!

From Humble Beginnings to Personal and Professional Success

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Ever thought about the true power of choices? Dive into Zafar's insights on destiny versus drive and uncover the profound mindset shift that can change everything.

Facing the Lens: Redefining Time and Self

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Ever considered the transformative power of facing the camera, embracing the ticking clock, and jumping into the unknown? Dive into a riveting chat where personal growth meets time's priceless essence.

If It's Not All Right, It's Not The End

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Ever overpacked for a trip or struggled to voice your expectations? Dive into a candid conversation between Kelly and Matt, unraveling the universal quirks and challenges we all secretly share.

Uncharted Paths to Greatness and the Courage to Walk Them

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Are you settling for the ordinary or daring to stand out from the crowd? Dive into a conversation that challenges the clichés of success and pushes the boundaries of ambition and risk-taking. The path to greatness is uncharted; are you brave enough to walk it?

Conversations that Matter: The Impact of Dialogue in Podcasting

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

At the heart of podcasting are the conversations we have. Tune in as we share some of the most influential dialogues we've had on our podcast.

In our final August episode, we reflect on the meaningful and impactful conversations we've had throughout our podcasting journey. From thought-provoking discussions that changed our perspective to dialogues that influenced our approach, we delve into the power of conversation in podcasting.

Exploring the Unexpected Opportunities from Podcasting

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Podcasting can lead to surprising opportunities! Discover how an invitation to SubSummit and other unexpected events have influenced our journey.

In this episode, we delve into the story behind our invitation to SubSummit and other unexpected opportunities that have come our way through podcasting. Join us as we reflect on how these experiences have enriched our podcasting journey.

Beyond the Mic: Impactful Guests and Transformative Insights

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Podcasting introduces us to some incredible individuals. Hear about our most memorable guests and the profound impact they've had on us and our podcast.

This episode revolves around the stories of standout guests who have left lasting impressions. We discuss their unique perspectives, transformative advice, and how they influenced our approach to podcasting.

The Power of Podcasting: How We Grew Our Network

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Ever wondered how podcasting can expand your network? Dive in as we share our experiences with growing an engaged community across multiple podcasts.

In this episode, we discuss how our three podcasts, 'Push To Be More,' Ecommerce podcast, and PodJunction, have played a vital role in extending our network. We share key turning points and surprising aspects of this growth journey.

PodJunction: Birth of a New Podcast Journey

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Join us as we pull back the curtain on our exciting new venture: PodJunction. Let's explore the inspiration behind it and the initial steps we're taking to bring it to life!"

In this episode, we discuss the inception of our new podcast, PodJunction. Learn about our motivations, the preparations underway, and how our past experiences with 'Push to Be More' are influencing this new venture.

Climbing the Business Mountain: Reflections, Challenges, and Joys

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Join us as we delve into a riveting conversation with Sameer, a seasoned entrepreneur who shares his journey of overcoming business challenges, the power of reflection, and finding joy in the smallest things. Tune in to learn how to navigate your own business mountain and come out stronger.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

00:20:00 Sameer talks about finding joy in the process and in small, everyday things. He emphasizes that joy should be internal and not dependent on external factors.

00:23:00 Sameer discusses the importance of perspective in dealing with problems and emotions. He suggests that taking time for oneself, even just a few minutes a day, can make a significant difference.

00:32:00 Sameer highlights the importance of taking time to reflect on past experiences and decisions. He discusses how this practice has helped him in his personal and business life.

00:40:00 Sameer shares his strategies for recharging his batteries and staying motivated, including playing sports and spending time with loved ones.

00:44:00 Sameer shares his experiences in overcoming various business challenges, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes and celebrating how far one has come.

ABOUT SAMEER

Sameer, an entrepreneurial prodigy, launched his first venture, SI Sports, at just 17! His passion for business soon propelled him from the world of sports trading to the exciting realm of travel with Xplore Travels, and later into the dynamic sphere of digital marketing with Xplore, a small start-up that has since become a juggernaut in the industry. Beyond being a savvy businessman, Sameer is also a lifelong learner and mentor, personifying the essence of dynamic leadership in the entrepreneurial world.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Mind Over Body: The Conscious Path to Health and Fitness

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

In a world obsessed with quick fixes and fad diets, discover the transformative power of consciousness in shaping your health. It's not just about what you eat or how much you exercise, but about being aware of your actions and their impacts on your body.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Edward Jackowski emphasizes the importance of being conscious about our eating habits. It's not just about the food we consume, but also about being aware of how much and how often we eat.
Societal pressures of beauty standards and the unrealistic images promoted through social media. Edward suggests that these pressures can lead to health issues, both physical and mental.
He discusses the impact of fitness on our eating habits. When we start working out, we automatically start eating better. However, dieting can often be a demotivator for fitness because it can lead to a lack of energy.
Edward discusses the importance of setting personal goals and working towards them. Everyone has different goals when it comes to their body, and it's about finding the right approach to achieve those goals.
The importance of resilience and how we respond to setbacks. It emphasizes that it's not about never having off days, but about how we choose to respond to them.

ABOUT EDWARD

Edward Jackowski is a fitness pioneer and inventor, with over 35 years of experience in the industry. He founded EXUDE Fitness, which offers patented fitness regimens based on body types. As an author of seven books and a sought-after speaker and consultant, Edward is passionate about empowering others to live healthier lives. With a Ph.D. in Behavioral Management and a commitment to staying ahead of the curve, Edward is a true fitness expert and an inspiration to many.

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Breaking Barriers and Embracing Change

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 15:30:00 +0000

Ever wondered what it takes to leave a secure corporate job and dive into the world of entrepreneurship? In this episode, we're joined by Liane Katz, who did just that. Hear her riveting story of transformation, her candid revelations about personal challenges, and her unique approach to cultivating habits. This isn't just about a career change; it's about challenging norms and making a difference in a male-dominated industry. Don't miss out on this inspiring journey of resilience and innovation!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Liane talks about her inspiration, Dame Stephanie Shirley, who had to use a man's name, Steve, to get responses to her business development letters in the 1960s. She admires how Dame Stephanie created a company of freelance programmers, mostly mums working from home, which parallels Liane's own business.
Liane discusses her transition from a secure corporate job at The Guardian to entrepreneurship after having children. She credits her parents' entrepreneurial spirit for showing her that this path was possible and fulfilling.
Liane continues discussing her messiness, admitting that it's a source of arguments with her partner. She's trying to cultivate tidiness to reduce these arguments and is reading books on how to declutter. This shows her commitment to embracing change in her personal life.
Liane shares her approach to incorporating small habits into her life, like doing a 30-second sun salutation in the morning. She believes in making changes super small to make them stick.

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ABOUT LIANE

Liane Katz is a champion of digital literacy and diversity in tech. From her humble beginnings as a journalist, she embraced the world of coding and technology, leading to a remarkable career spanning 20 years in digital media. After a transformative 12-year stint at The Guardian, Liane took a leap of faith, left her corporate role, and ventured into the world of entrepreneurship. She co-founded MAMA.codes, an innovative coding school for children aged 3-11, designed to empower the next generation with crucial digital skills. Now, MAMA.codes has taught over 5,000 kids to code and is on a mission to widen its impact, all under Liane's dynamic leadership. As she guides MAMA.codes into its exciting digital future, Liane continues to be a passionate advocate for diversity in tech and remains committed to creating a world where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has access to coding education.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

From Entrepreneurship to Adventure: Unleashing Ideas and Building Connections | Sean Salloux

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Ever wondered what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur and recharge your batteries along the way?

Join Matt Edmundson in a captivating episode of 'Push to Be More' as he sits down with Sean Salloux from Sentinel Digital. From thrilling mountain climbs to revolutionizing the digital banking sector, this episode explores the challenges and rewards of the entrepreneurial journey. So, are you ready to discover the secrets of entrepreneurial success and find out how to stay true to your values in the ever-evolving business landscape?

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Matt and Sean explore the challenges and rewards of being an entrepreneur, offering a candid perspective on the entrepreneurial journey. Sean coins the term "entre-manure" to encapsulate the rollercoaster of ups and downs that come with building a business.
Beyond the realm of work, Sean reveals his adventurous spirit through his love for sailing and mountain climbing. When asked about influential figures he’d love to interview, Sean talks about his late great-grandfather, an anti-fascist in Italy who lived during fascist rule, and even the late Queen Elizabeth, intrigued by her vast historical knowledge and experiences.
Drawing from his experience, Sean shares valuable insights on building a cohesive team at Sentinel Digital, combining familiar colleagues with new subject matter experts. He underscores the significance of nurturing a network over time and leveraging those connections for opportunities.
As the discussion concludes, Sean reflects on the challenge that comes with running a large company. He excels in scaling businesses to a certain point but thrives in environments where he can focus on the success and realization of ideas rather than solely monetary gains.

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ABOUT SEAN

Meet Sean Salloux, a pioneering figure in the realm of digital technology and a champion of innovative disruption. From his early beginnings as an aspiring tennis player, Sean navigated his journey, overcoming personal challenges and forging a remarkable career in the tech industry. With 20 years under his belt in mobile, crypto, and banking security, Sean was instrumental in creating one of the first digital wallets on a credit card. As a seasoned CEO, he's contributed to the success of several tech startups, and his portfolio even boasts two unicorns (a privately held startup company that is valued at over $1 billion)! Sean is now pouring his knowledge and passion into the future of digital banking. He's on a mission to revolutionize the sector with B2B digital wallets and digital identity systems. Away from work, you'll find Sean sailing the seas or climbing mountains - just another testament to his adventurous spirit.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Kinesthetic Wisdom: Rediscovering Posture and Debunking Myths

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Did you know that back pain is the number one cause of global disability and that posture can affect mood and hormone levels?

Join us for today's episode of Push To Be More where our guest Esther Gokhale shares her story of suffering from crippling back pain after her first pregnancy and how she took that experience as a challenge to find a solution for back pain. After years of study and research, Esther developed "The Gokhale Method" to help hundreds of people eliminate back pain and enhance strength. You don't want to miss this inspiring episode - tune in now!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Esther discusses the benefits of using dance as a reminder system to revisit posture and keep the body in a healthy position, while also forming a joyful community. She also notes that indigenous cultures have a kinesthetic wisdom that has been lost in the modern West, leading to high rates of back pain and other musculoskeletal problems.
Esther disagrees with the modern belief that sitting is the root cause of back pain, but says its rather how we sit and the shape of our spine. She believes our spine is J shaped rather than S shaped. Indigenous people sit as much as we do but don't suffer from the same problems.
The Gokhale Method recommends "stretch sitting" with a modified backrest for gentle, hours-long traction to ease back pain and allow for a natural, healthy back. This is a more effective and convenient alternative to inversion tables.
Esther developed the Gokhale Method to relieve her own severe back pain, which resulted from her first pregnancy, and sought out strategies to improve her own physical structure. She worked on the method over the years and was successful in making the process more efficient, effective and sustainable, and now shares it with others.
Esther shares how she built her business organically and has been able to focus on innovating and developing techniques that work to relieve back pain. Despite the success, Esther feels impatient as she believes the approach needs to be more mainstream and widespread to help the millions of people suffering from back pain.
She says their biggest challenge is finding new customers and creating repeat business. However, there is a great need for their services as back pain is the number one cause of global disability. They have stayed afloat through various challenges and continue to improve their offering.
Esther is expecting extensive coverage for the Gokhale Method with their upcoming trial at top universities. They are also exploring the benefits of posture for mental health, and have created a course to teach basic posture principles for empowerment and confidence.

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ABOUT ESTHER

Meet Esther Gokhale – a pioneer in posture education and pain relief. Esther transformed her own experience with crippling back pain into the Gokhale Method, a unique system that restores your body's primal posture to eliminate pain and enhance strength. Growing up in India, her journey started with helping her nurse mother care for abandoned babies, leading her to study biochemistry at prestigious institutions like Harvard and Princeton, and later, acupuncture in San Francisco.

The turning point came when Esther suffered from severe back pain during her first pregnancy. After an unsuccessful surgery, she dedicated her life to finding a solution to back pain. Her pursuits took her across the globe, from the streets of Paris to the communities of Brazil and India, culminating in the creation of the Gokhale Method.

Esther's bestselling book, "8 Steps to a Pain-Free Back," has reached over 300,000 readers worldwide, and she has shared her wisdom on stages like TEDx Stanford. Known as the "Posture Guru of Silicon Valley", she has worked with top corporations like Google and Facebook, consulted for various Stanford sports teams, and conducted workshops for leading health institutions. Amid her business challenges and personal trials, Esther remains committed to being of service and inspiring people towards healthier, pain-free living.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Redefining Leadership Through An Indigenous Lens

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Can indigenous culture and principles impact the way we do business?

Join us as we explore the fascinating world of indigenous business leadership in this thought-provoking episode of our podcast. Our guest Heidi Renata from Innov8 HQ shares valuable insights on how indigenous culture brings a unique perspective to the corporate world, emphasizing the importance of spirituality, integrity, and humanity in the workplace. Discover how Maori traditions and principles are making a powerful impact on global business practices. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Authenticity and being genuine is important for building trust and retaining clients in business, and sharing vulnerabilities can break down barriers and increase trust.
Heidi discusses her experience of pivoting her business during COVID-19. She was running a shared workspace and innovation hub, but due to the pandemic, she had to transition to focus more on education and training rather than just on providing space. This transition allowed her to challenge the paradigms of western business and become a leaner, more holistic organization.
She talks about how her business was able to thrive during and after COVID-19 despite not having a physical location, and how incorporating Maori culture into business operations has brought more authenticity and powerful foundations to their practices, embracing the idea of creating long-term relationships versus quick material success.
Heidi reflects on the challenges of being a female Maori in the technology sector but sees it as an opportunity to work harder and prove herself. She also discusses the positive changes that have occurred in New Zealand, where various cultures can celebrate their heritage and work together towards a better future.
Heidi emphasizes the importance of counterbalancing work with self-care activities like being still, spending time in nature, dancing, listening to podcasts, and spending time with loved ones to recharge her batteries.
She is working on projects to engage and motivate youth, and also does public speaking and humanitarian work. She finds the humility of young people to be a golden thread, with a focus on helping humanity and the planet.

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ABOUT HEIDI

Get ready for Heidi Renata, a dynamic business virtuoso and community beacon! With a legacy rooted in Vodafone NZ, Heidi reinvented herself as the mastermind behind Dunedin's Innov8HQ, an inventive co-working hub offering more than just office space. Straddling governance roles and crafting innovative strategies for businesses and non-profits alike, Heidi is all about empowering communities and ushering in the future of business in the digital age!

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Reshaping Childhood Adversity into a Fitness Legacy: Dominic's Journey

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

What do you do when life throws you curveballs?

In this episode of Push to Be More, Dominic Gerleve from Vision Captured shares his journey of resilience and perseverance through childhood adversity and how it led him to start his own fitness company. From experiencing his father's heart attack at a young age to finding solace in exercise, he realized the power of health and the importance of convincing others to invest in their own wellbeing. Join us as we explore Dominic's inspiring story of turning obstacles into opportunities and reshaping his childhood adversity into a fitness legacy!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Dominic relates his childhood to Tony Robbins who had a similar childhood to him and was able to overcome adversity, which inspired him to use his challenges as a reason to do better in life. He believes that going through difficult times makes you stronger and helps you realize that failures are temporary and just moments in time.
Dominic's resilience and attitude towards overcoming obstacles fueled his passion for fitness, which was further driven by his father's heart attack, making him aware of the importance of health and fitness.
He believes that getting people to commit to themselves and overcome doubt and inertia is the key to starting their health journey. He suggests asking them why they want to make a change and getting them to connect their health with their personal values and goals, such as spending time with their family, which can be a powerful motivator.
Dominic's journey in the fitness industry started at 17 when he worked for a third-party personal training company, and he eventually became a co-owner of a company at age 21. However, things didn't go well for him in this business, leading to a five-year journey of rebuilding his confidence and gaining valuable lessons from his failures.
His current company, Vision Captured, provides third party personal training and is transitioning to an in-home training service. He plans to eventually open up gyms in smaller towns to change the culture and make them more health conscious.
Dominic recharges his batteries by doing exercise, going to church, and occasionally doing extreme activities. He incorporates a of exercise such as yoga, weight training, and cardio, and uses his workout time to listen to educational material like audiobooks. This combination of physical and mental exercise helps him start his day and feel empowered.
He plans on expanding his gym business by taking on more clients and investing in commercial real estate, while also focusing on developing trainers with a diverse range of knowledge and experience.

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ABOUT DOMINIC

Dominic Gerleve's passion for health and fitness, ignited by his father's heart attack, fueled his rise as a leader in the industry. Co-founding Vision Captured with Maggie Gerleve, they utilize their combined expertise to make fitness accessible for all. Their collaboration has driven outstanding growth in client and employee retention, revenue, and profit margins, establishing Vision Captured as a fitness industry trailblazer.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

The Transformational Journey of Leadership

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Are you struggling in your leadership role and constantly struggle to communicate with others?

Tune in to this week's episode of Push to be More where our special guest, Peter Awad shares about his journey of self-awareness & growth and the Five Voices of leadership that helped transform him into an effective leader. Discover the secrets to becoming a transformational leader and watch as your relationships flourish, projects soar, and success follows.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Peter identifies four common lies he tells himself that he has to watch out for. The predominant lie he struggles with is believing he is a bad husband and father, which can be a source of anxiety for many parents. He talks about the importance of apologizing and learning from mistakes as a leader in the home.
He discusses the challenges of leadership coaching and how he has learned to become a better leader himself through self-awareness and learning about the Five Voices which help him understand how different people communicate and process information. This has helped him and others become more effective and efficient in their work while reducing personality conflicts and office politics.
Peter discovered his passion for coaching after asking himself three questions. It took him six months to figure out his superpowers and he initially believed everyone possessed them, which led him to undervalue them.
Peter emphasizes the importance of having a morning routine to start the day, paying attention to clues and commonalities to differentiate between good and bad days. He also highlights the significance of having a to-do list based on quarterly, monthly, and weekly goals, which helps to determine the one thing to accomplish each day. He uses a Legend Planner to plan out his goals, and before going to bed, he thinks about the perfect morning and the tasks he wants to accomplish the following day.
Peter is the co-founder of Mission Meats, a direct-to-consumer shelf stable snack food company that sells healthier portable options like beef sticks and jerky. He plans to step into full-time leadership coaching and grow cohorts for a year-long leadership coaching program.

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ABOUT PETER

Peter Awad is an Executive Coach to Christian Businessmen, Co-Founder of Mission Meats, and Founder of Import Auto Performance. He helps Kingdom-minded businessmen find purpose, grow their businesses, and live out their vision without compromising their values. With specialties in coaching, branding, digital marketing, eCommerce, social media, training, consulting, and public speaking, Peter has been mentioned in Forbes, Inc., and other notable publications. He also has a talent for making people laugh when they least expect it.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Rethinking and Reinventing Diversity

Wed, 31 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Do you think your organization could become more inclusive so your employees find it safe & easy to turn up to work everyday?

Tune in to today's episode of Push To Be More where Gloria Ewe from AU Consulting shares how they're redefining diversity and wellness in the workplace. Join us as we explore their philosophy and learn how she went from being a mother of two at the age of 17 to having a successful career in Aviation to co-founding her management consulting firm. You wouldn't want to miss out on this inspiring episode!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Gloria discusses how becoming a mother at a young age shaped her into a resilient person and given her valuable life skills, surpassing any corporate role she's had, and suggests the idea of a "life experience resume" to highlight the importance and impact of personal experiences beyond a traditional career path.
Gloria became a flight attendant at 18 while raising two children, choosing a career to build a future for her family. She attributes her success to surrounding herself with supportive family and having a structured, adaptable mindset.
She explains that "Au" in AU Consulting means "about you, about us" in Maori, and represents the proverb "I'm you and you are me." The consultancy focuses on supporting companies and clients with their people's future needs in a holistic way, addressing the four pillars of wellbeing: physical, mental, spiritual, and family. The goal is to recognize which pillar needs support and take actions to bring it back up again.
Gloria is drawn to creating safe spaces for the future generational workforce with diverse talent, and believes that businesses should allow their employees to be their full, authentic selves in the workplace. The key mistake that companies make is not creating an environment where people feel free to express themselves physically in language, dressing, and personal style.
Gloria recharges her batteries by spending time with her family and learning new skills, such as riding a motorbike.
She aims to partner with global organizations to have a greater impact on improving organizations' performance. The biggest barrier is restricting thinking to New Zealand and making connections with the right people. Making time to ensure the strategy keeps moving forward is essential.

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ABOUT GLORIA

Gloria Ewe is a passionate New Zealand entrepreneur, co-founder of AU Consulting, a trailblazing minority-owned management consulting firm. With over 20 years of experience in learning and development, Gloria has made a name for herself by helping clients transform their digital learning capabilities and fostering diversity and inclusion strategies. Drawing from her unique journey as a young mother, her successful career in aviation, and her unwavering resilience, Gloria champions innovative lifelong learning and cultural engagement practices. Her ultimate goal is to create a lasting legacy of social good and maintain a competitive commercial edge for her clients and the community.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

The Story of a Disruptive Non-Medical Healthcare Entrepreneur

Wed, 24 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Did you know that your biological age can be much higher than your actual chronological age due to various factors?

Tune in to today's episode of Push to be More where our special guest, Jack Latus from Latus Health shares his secrets to success. From gym-owner to 5th biggest provider in occupational healthcare, Jack shares his journey of resilience, persistence, and self-belief in overcoming industry naysayers. Join us as we explore his innovative approach to improving healthcare outcomes through a focus on employee well-being and his personal journey of reducing biological age through cutting-edge protocols.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Latus Health is a tech-enabled B2B occupational health provider in the UK, Ireland, and Northern Ireland, focusing on health needs from a statutory and well-being perspective, and aiming to improve efficiency and healthcare outcomes through digital solutions. The company was founded by Jack and his brothers, who combined statutory requirements with proactive wellness and well-being offerings, which allowed them to become a disruptive player in a competitive market.
Jack believes that the traditional way of delivering occupational health services is boring, but his company is disruptive and focuses on improving healthcare outcomes and making employees healthier. He is excited about being in the game of business and changing the way the world heals.
He talks about his challenge in convincing others of his vision for occupational healthcare. He overcomes this challenge by recruiting key players, including a chief medical officer and tech experts from other industries, to help disrupt and improve the industry. Their goal is to deliver all of their services remotely, which requires finding and integrating the best technology.
He emphasizes resilience, persistence, and self-belief as important qualities to deal with naysayers. He advocates for playing the long game and remaining focused on the end goal rather than engaging in arguments or getting over-leveraged. Bootstrapping may result in slower growth but can pay off in the long run, as evidenced by Jack's company becoming the 5th biggest provider in the UK in just a few years.
Jack maintains his health by focusing on maintaining muscle mass and VO2 max, which are important indicators of longevity. He achieves this by doing resistance and CrossFit training, pure VO2 max work, and playing tennis.
He reduced his biological age through a protocol involving intermittent fasting, cold and hot therapy, red light treatment, and a supplement stack, among others, that focused on improving his cell's mitochondria and epigenetic clock. While he was able to reduce his biological age by 4.6 years, he felt that the key benefit was the sustainable difference it made in how he felt and performed.

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ABOUT JACK

Meet Jack Latus - a disruptor and innovator in the healthcare industry, who has overcome significant challenges through bootstrapping and disrupting the heavily regulated healthcare industry. As CEO of Latus Health, he is changing the way the world heals, consolidating the market, and providing high-level health testing for executives. Jack is committed to living well and has a data-driven approach to his health, including a six-month longevity protocol that reduced his biological age by 4.6 years. Join us as we discuss his challenges, personal well-being, and vision for the future.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Thriving in Business and Balancing Life Post-Covid

Wed, 17 May 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Are you struggling with your brand marketing and distinguishing yourself from other brands?

Tune in to this week's episode of Push To Be More where Matt is joined by guest Caroline Polson from TwoScoops, a purpose-driven advertising agency that helps clients move beyond selling products/services and embrace their role in shaping a better future. Caroline shares how a friend approaching her with the idea of branding with positivity led her to start TwoScoops. Caroline discusses how some of her clients have hidden stories that can be shared to bring out the positivity in their brand and how her team dig deep with their clients to find the angles that make them unique and stand out amongst the competition, even if they're tricky to find. Tune in now to learn how you can approach branding in a positive and unique way!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Caroline left her job at the University of Canterbury and started TwoScoops with a friend who proposed a positive approach to marketing and advertising. They believe that promoting positivity and telling good stories about brands will naturally engage audiences. They have been successful so far and have received positive responses from clients.
When starting a business, it's important to plan everything, including your company's purpose and brand positioning, financial needs, and support systems such as lawyers and accountants. Timing should also be considered, but being brave and willing to put in the work can lead to great rewards such as work-life balance and personal fulfillment.
Caroline discusses how she has balanced running her business with family life post-COVID, explaining that her kids are resilient and supportive, and that running her own business has given her more flexibility to be present for her family. She highlights the benefits of being able to work from home and using new systems to be productive while also being able to switch off.
Caroline manages her work life balance by planning and prioritizing her time. She utilizes the time she has as best as she can and makes it happen. She recognizes that there are busy seasons and takes time to recharge her batteries through exercise and family activities.
TwoScoops helps businesses discover their unique positive stories and elevate them through workshops and exercises, even if it means identifying hidden stories that may have been overlooked. They work to find authentic ways to showcase diversity and inclusivity, ultimately helping businesses attract talent and grow.

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ABOUT CAROLINE

Meet Caroline Polson, a marketer-turned-purpose-driven-entrepreneur. She worked at WingNut Films for Peter Jackson on King Kong before moving to several advertising agencies and then client-side at the University of Canterbury. In 2022, she launched TwoScoops, a purpose-driven advertising agency that helps clients move beyond selling products/services and embrace their role in shaping a better future. When she's not running the business, she's a mom of two young boys who loves outdoor adventures like skiing, boating, and swimming around beautiful coast of her native New Zealand.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Navigating Challenges And Innovating The Event World

Wed, 10 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Is money the real measure of a person's success or is there more to life than that?

In this episode of Push To Be More, Matt is joined by Chris George who debunks the misguided notion that success is solely based on financial gain. Chris reflects on how he shifted his mindset to find true passion and love in doing what he loves and shares the importance of identifying what success truly means for you. Tune in to discover Chris' insights into staying motivated and consistent to achieve true success!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Chris discusses his passion for giving back by speaking at different universities and inspiring college students to identify what they're good at and move forward with that. He emphasizes the importance of finding true passion and love in your work and identifying what success means to you, rather than believing that making a lot of money equates to success.
Success for Chris is measured in four areas: health, career, friendships, and family. He checks in with these areas daily and if they are all in the green, he considers himself successful. He sees past experiences, even divorce, as learning experiences that have led him to where he is now in his career and personal life.
Chris believes that giving back is the fifth element to his personal list of important values, and it is what fuels his heart the most. He believes in the importance of giving more than taking.
Chris says that staying motivated comes naturally to some people and they don't need external motivation. For others, it's important to find inspiration, but the key is to figure out what you're good at and double down on it. Consistency and building habits are crucial for staying motivated, and ultimately, if you want something, you have to go out and get it yourself.
Chris recharges his batteries by spending time with people who have nothing to do with work or business. He also plays sports and loves to find peace in the moments when work is not on his mind.

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ABOUT CHRIS

Chris George is a successful serial entrepreneur who's launched and managed seven businesses, including Gentleman's Box and Subscription Trade Association (SUBTA). He's also the founder of Certified, a streetwear brand on a mission to donate 100M meals to Feeding America through its signature line of hoodies. Chris is a sought-after speaker who's shared his insights on entrepreneurship and business at events like Digital Summit and SubSummit, and he hosts a video series, No Excuses with Chris G., featuring notable guests like Gary Vaynerchuk and Ryan Hogan. Chris is passionate about giving back and regularly supports purpose-driven businesses and initiatives.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Rewriting Life's Script: From Priest To Emotional Expert

Wed, 03 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Are you feeling weighed down by emotional baggage? Did you know that by acting out your thoughts and feelings, you can better understand and heal from past traumas?

In this episode of Push To Be More, our speical guest John Faisandier joins Matt to delve into the world of psychodrama - a powerful tool for working through emotional struggles. John, a former priest turned emotional expert, explains how this technique can help entrepreneurs become more spontaneous and creative. But psychodrama isn't just for business - John also emphasizes the importance of using this technique to strengthen personal relationships. Tune in now to find out more!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

John went from being a Catholic priest to a psychodramatist after experiencing a health crisis and feeling constrained by the structured environment of teaching. He found self-development through therapy with a priest and pursued psychodrama as a way to help himself and others. It took him 10 years to qualify and he eventually left the priesthood to work as a full-time psychodramatist.
He talks about his experience of transitioning from a priest to a new identity and how the change in status brought newfound freedom and appreciation for serving others.
He worked as a psychodramatist with drug and alcohol patients in a residential hospital setting, where he helped people deal with intense emotions from their past through corrective role-playing experiences. He learned how to manage himself and others in these intense moments, which led him to develop a course on Thriving Under Fire (TUF).
John discusses the importance of connecting the body and mind in therapy, reframing past experiences instead of just "getting over" them, and learning emotional management skills to handle difficult conversations and manage one's own feelings. He emphasizes that the unconscious drives behavior, and that addressing emotional moments requires not only conscious effort, but also the right tools and training.
Learning simple steps in emotional management can make a significant difference in customer service, business communication, and personal relationships. John's ultimate agenda is to help people have successful relationships at home.
John recharges his batteries by doing his own work and dealing with his own demons. He allows his feelings to come and go, is non-judgmental about himself, and has someone he can talk to when needed. He focuses on good sleep & eating habits, appropriate workouts, fun activities with friends and maintaining good relationships.

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ABOUT JOHN

John Faisandier is a former Catholic priest turned entrepreneur, trainer, and author. His mission is to help people manage their emotions in the workplace and in life. With over 20 years of experience in this field, he's developed a successful program that's been recognized with training awards and is implemented globally. John's diverse career background, including teaching, counselling, and mediation, informs his work and his passion for storytelling. He is a frequent contributor to industry magazines and professional journals and has authored a book called "Thriving Under Fire: Turn Difficult Customers into Business Success."

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Transforming Life, Business, and Personal Growth

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Are you tired of living paycheck to paycheck and struggling with debt? Then don't miss out on this latest episode of Push to be More where our special guest Neil Morecraft from Digital Directive shares his personal journey of declaring bankruptcy to finally becoming financially educated. Neil reveals how he turned his life around with his "Power of Six", a balanced approach to achieving success. Tune in now to discover his powerful insights and practical tips for transforming your life!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Neil declared bankruptcy in 2015 and struggled with debt and a lack of direction in his career. After seeking mentorship and reevaluating his priorities, he created a system of categorizing and prioritizing his life and business goals, focusing on mindset and well-being before money. This approach has led to increased happiness, contentment, and productivity in his life.
Neil shares his experience of fostering his nephew, who has ADHD and Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and how it has been a difficult yet rewarding experience. He discusses the challenges of fostering and the impact it has had on his family, but acknowledges the importance of providing love and affection to children who may not have had it before.
Neil discusses his power of six, focusing on mind, body, personal, lifestyle, business, and money. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing these areas in order to achieve personal growth and transformation, and shares his own experiences of tackling each aspect through mindfulness, exercise, communication, and setting achievable goals. Taking action in these areas can lead to a compound effect and an overall feeling of improvement and success.
Neil reflects on his journey of personal growth and transformation, which involved facing difficult truths, making tough decisions, and finding his true purpose. He emphasizes the importance of figuring out what you really want in life and having the courage to pursue it. Despite the challenges, Neil feels fulfilled and blessed with his current lifestyle and has no plans to retire.
Being honest with yourself and having the courage to take bold actions can lead to personal and professional growth, even if it means taking a risk to pursue a new opportunity. The responsibility to make these choices ultimately falls on the individual.

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ABOUT NEIL

Meet Neil Morecraft, a high-energy Technology Entrepreneur and Performance Marketer who has been transforming businesses for over 25 years. He's the owner/operator of Digital Directive, a full-service digital agency and technical consultancy that serves high-growth businesses worldwide. Neil has experienced it all - raising, founding, exiting, dissolving, and liquidating seven companies, dealing with personal struggles, and declaring bankruptcy in 2015. But he bounced back and developed a methodical and straightforward approach to work-life balance that anyone can adopt. Neil's a strategic thinker who brings a big-picture perspective to every challenge, and he empowers people to reach their highest potential. Whether you're starting out or looking to grow your business, Neil can help.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

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The Power Of Continuous Improvement

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Are you struggling to build self-confidence and find your feet? Continuous self-improvement gives you the edge for optimal performance because you get to know your strengths and maximize them in all spheres of life.

Join us for this episode of Push To Be More where Manish Mak a.k.a Mak from Formula Media shares his journey of overcoming fear of judgment and gaining self-confidence to find his identity and establishing his own successful business!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Mak's biggest challenge was confidence, particularly in his early twenties when he entered the media and music industry. He overcame this challenge through pushing himself out of his shell and being in the limelight, despite his introverted nature. His entry into the BBC Asian Network was part of a deal with his record label, and he found the experience of being on the radio and connecting with millions of listeners to be both rewarding and emotionally challenging.
Mak discusses the importance of believing in oneself and embracing feedback in order to overcome fear and build confidence, which is an evolving process that never stops. It is important to enjoy the journey and understand that different challenges require different approaches.
Despite tough times and personal challenges, Mak launched his business Formula Media in 2019 and secured a pro bono project for the Prince's Trust, which became an award-winning campaign, by pulling together support from friends and colleagues and committing to seeing it through no matter what.
Mak stays motivated and recharges himself through discipline and balancing two sides of himself - one that is always focused on growth and building, and the other that is more relaxed and calm. He practices hot yoga, goes to the gym, practices breathing techniques, does meditation, spends time with loved ones, and tries to minimize drinking to maximize his productivity.
Mak plans to focus on utilizing AI to take away laborious tasks and open up time for creative thinking while applying media for good and diversity. He also aims to establish a bigger purpose for Formula Media.

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ABOUT MAK

Meet Mak, a media marketing expert with a passion for pushing boundaries and finding new and emerging media channels. With over 12 years of experience working with some of the world's largest advertising agencies and clients, Mak has overcome many challenges in his career, from making the decision to become an entrepreneur to navigating the relentless pace of the media industry. He's led global media strategy for brands like Coca-Cola, Sony, and Shell, and has won multiple industry awards for his work.

Mak is also a DJ and music producer, with a love for music that has influenced his career in media. He is the Founder and CEO of Formula Media, a cutting-edge agency that's focused on using data-driven media advertising to make a positive impact in the world. Mak is passionate about diversity and inclusion in the workplace and is interested in the intersection of media and technology, particularly in areas like AI and machine learning.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

The Power of Perseverance: How Churchill's Words Shaped One Entrepreneur's Life and Business

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Looking for inspiration to push through the challenges of entrepreneurship? Join us for a journey of perseverance as we explore how the words and life of Winston Churchill shaped one entrepreneur's path to success.

In this episode, Matt is joined by Mark Buchanan who shares valuable insights about the power of determination, discipline, and courage, and how to overcome the temptation to settle for mediocrity. Don't miss this inspiring episode!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Mark's diverse experiences and logical approach to problem-solving have shaped his leadership and business strategy. He enjoys consulting and coaching, focusing on empowering individuals and harmonizing their efforts to achieve business success. He believes that people are fascinating and all have unique stories and cultures.
The biggest challenge for Mark is finding a balance between having a strong sense of self and humility, which allows him to be confident in his beliefs but also open to the perspectives of others. He acknowledges that this balance takes time and practice, and that it is important to always be open to the possibility that his beliefs and opinions may be incomplete or incorrect.
Mark explains the concept of 4DX, which is a set of four disciplines of execution that help businesses achieve their goals. The four disciplines are painful behavior patterns that require discipline but lead to positive outcomes. The concept comes from the Franklin Covey organization famous for the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People which provides a foundational platform for 4DX.
Most people start with good intentions, but over time, they fall back to their default ways due to lack of discipline and familiarity. To achieve above-average success, one needs phenomenal determination and courage, and mutual accountability is pivotal to staying on track. Groups of people working towards a shared vision outperform individuals working alone.
Mark finds spending time alone in nature and photography to be energizing and centering, helping him recharge and repair. He also finds meditation and prayer helpful in reminding him of his own smallness and insignificance, which reduces stress and helps him focus on his part in a bigger picture.
Mark is involved in starting a new fair trade company called We Are Fair Trade, which is the successor to Trade Craft in its mission. He was inspired to take on this challenge due to his involvement with Tradecraft and the importance of the fair trade mission. The new company aims to use digital opportunities to continue the mission and involve a younger audience in ethical practices.

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ABOUT MARK

Mark has had a remarkable career, spanning multiple sectors and roles. Starting as an electrical engineer, they moved on to become a leader in the charitable sector before transitioning to consulting, coaching, and founding his own company. With experience working with clients in 60 countries, he has become an expert in leadership, problem-solving, and instilling a culture of strategic execution. His passion for social responsibility and sustainability led him to found We Are Fair Trade Ltd, and he's also a Churchill fan who never gives up. When not working, he can be found on his motorbike or pursuing his other hobbies like photography.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Healthier Living, Motherhood, and Sustainable Success in Business

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Most of us try to eat a healthy diet and detox regularly. But have you ever wondered, what are we detoxing from or why we need to? Whether you have or haven't, this episode of Push to be More is a must listen for everyone!

Matt is joined by Emma Bianco, the founder of Pure Earth Collection, a multi-award-winning eco children's brand. Emma shares her journey of growing her business by 350% while juggling pregnancy, a newborn, and two small children. She shares her passion for non-toxic and sustainable living and talks about of the dangers of micro-plastics in our everyday lives, particularly among children and what we can do to be safe.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Emma started her journey towards a healthier lifestyle after experiencing health complications in her twenties. She discovered that many common, ultra-processed foods are unhealthy, and started to eat a healthier, organic diet. Later, after becoming a mother, she realized that products marketed for babies are often full of toxins, microplastics, and other harmful substances. Emma now advocates for healthier product options and encourages people to make simple swaps to reduce toxins in their homes and in their lives.
Emma talks about the challenges and biases she faced as a woman when trying to raise funds for her startup, particularly as a mother. She shares how investors questioned her abilities to run a business and be a mother at the same time, and how she responded by being transparent and determined, eventually growing her business by 350%.
Emma discusses the challenges of balancing work and motherhood, and shares her strategies for prioritizing her children while still succeeding in her career. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries around technology use to create a healthy environment for her children.
Emma recharges her batteries by balancing alone time with time spent with family and friends. Even though she has a lot going on with her business, family, and newborn, she tries to find at least 30 minutes to an hour each day for alone time and exercise to refresh herself.
Emma's vision for her business is to continue to grow by at least 120% year on year over the next five years by providing sustainable and organic products. She wants to inspire other brands to push towards sustainability and inspire more women to start their businesses. She also addresses the issue of greenwashing and emphasizes her company's commitment to transparency and truthfulness.
Microplastics are harmful to human health, especially babies and children. The tiny particles can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact, getting into the bloodstream and even breast milk. To reduce exposure, individuals can open windows, vacuum and dust, and phase out synthetic plastic-based fabrics in favor of natural materials.

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ABOUT EMMA

Emma is the founder of multi award-winning eco children's brand Pure Earth Collection which has achieved 120% YoY growth over 5 years. Last year, alongside juggling pregnancy, a newborn and two small children she grew the business by a massive 350%. She is an advocate of non-toxic and sustainable living having experienced health issues in her early 20s which led her to research and learn a lot about environmental toxins in our everyday lives.

Before setting up Pure Earth Collection Emma had a 10 year career in finance focused on Africa. Including working in corporate finance, private equity and consultancy all focused on financing and promoting business across sub-Saharan Africa to help boost private sector markets across the continent.

Emma is a creative at heart, with a mathematical and business brain and a passion for health and wellness. She feels particularly strongly about helping to spread awareness of the dangers of micro-plastics to human health and helping families understand why children are more exposed to these toxins.

She's now combining her interests and skill sets to help bring safer, more natural products into the baby market. She's on a mission to protect the long term health of children and the planet.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

The Power of One: How Small Actions Can Make a Big Difference

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

We can sometimes feel that we need to do something big to make a difference whereas that's not true. Vaishali Shah joins Matt in this episode to talk about her family legacy of giving back and what she does to keep it alive.

Join us as we unlock the secrets of The Power of One and learn how you too can make a difference in the world, one step at a time! You won't want to miss our conversation with this inspiring entrepreneur!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Vaishali talks about her motivation for using her businesses to give to charity and how it was influenced by her upbringing in a family that emphasized giving back, as well as the support of her father who mentored and inspired her.
Some personal challenges that she faced were her parents' divorce and moving from Jersey to Paris and now, starting from scratch again in Dubai, which pushed her out of her comfort zone and made her more resilient, helping her become a more business-minded and entrepreneurial individual.
Vaishali enjoys running two businesses as it provides variety. She niches within each business, focusing on cultural and multicultural wedding stationery for Ananya Cards and food, hospitality, and lifestyle for Creative ID. This helps her manage social media and focus her marketing efforts.
To maintain her energy and creativity, Vaishali practices self-care activities such as visiting spas and traveling to exotic locations. She also enjoys listening to podcasts and wants to start journaling and meditating on a daily basis.
Vaishali hopes to create a community called "Chai and conversation" for like-minded entrepreneurs and business owners to talk about charity and support each other's efforts in making a positive impact.

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ABOUT VAISHALI

Vaishali is an award-winning entrepreneur who has been running two successful businesses for over 20 years. As the founder of Creative ID, a branding and marketing consultancy, and Ananya Cards, a luxury stationery brand, Vaishali has helped businesses all over the world connect with their ideal clients and create purposeful, aspirational content. She is also a dedicated supporter of sustainability, diversity, and charity work, donating 10% of her profits to important causes.

As an industry expert, Vaishali has been featured in global wedding publications, blogs, and media, and her work at Ananya Cards has been creating sophisticated wedding and event stationery for celebrations rich in personality and culture for 17 years. When she's not busy changing the world and running two successful businesses, Vaishali enjoys relaxing in a spa, exploring the newest art exhibitions in the city, and traveling to beautiful places.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Keeping A Digital Agency Relevant In The Age Of AI

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

How can a digital agency stay relevant in the age of Artificial Intelligence?

Andrew Armitage, a digital marketing expert, award-winning agency founder, and bestselling author joins Matt for this episode to share his insights on staying competitive as a digital agency to provide value to clients. Tune in to discover valuable insights on running and growing your business in this age of AI.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Andrew had a fascination for tech since he was a teenager, and had an entrepreneurial streak in the family. He combined his creative skills with his corporate experience to start his own digital agency in 2006. With hard work, dedication and an understanding of the complexities of development, he has been able to build it into a multi award-winning company.
Andrew discusses the challenges of running a digital agency in the age of AI, such as recruitment, lost pitches, adapting to technology, and dealing with feast-and-famine cycles. He also emphasizes the importance of attitude and aptitude when recruiting and maintaining discipline in order to succeed.
In the digital marketing industry, staying ahead of the curve is a challenge in the age of AI. Andrew suggests that digital marketers need to use AI for more menial tasks, but also be aware of its risks and lack of context. He urges people to develop both technical and soft skills, as well as focus on developing relationships with clients in order to succeed.
Andrew discusses the importance of holistic website planning to avoid wastage and ensure digital properties are sustainable, iterative and have longevity. He also explains why he wrote a bestselling book on the topic, which serves as a useful tool for clients when meeting prospects.
Andrew finds balance in his life by taking part in activities such as biking, walking, running, and spending time with his family. These activities provide him with an escape from the busyness of life, allowing him to recharge and reflect on his goals and direction.
Andrew plans to continue to grow his digital agency by focusing on providing great work for good clients and creating a good environment for his team, while staying a team of 10-12 members at most.

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ABOUT ANDREW

Andrew Armitage is a digital marketing expert, award-winning agency founder, and bestselling author with over 20 years' experience in the industry. As the founder and director of A Digital, he oversees a talented team of eight and has built bespoke websites and applications for top companies like ExxonMobil, the NHS, Windermere Lake Cruises, and James Cropper plc.

Andrew's bestselling book, "Holistic Website Planning," offers actionable insights and strategies for businesses looking to gain a competitive edge through digital marketing. He also hosts The Clientside Podcast, where he shares insights from senior digital leaders on the impact of digital on people, culture, and performance.

Outside of work, Andrew loves exploring the beautiful Lake District on foot or by bike. His passion for helping businesses succeed through digital marketing is matched only by his love for the great outdoors.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Balancing Work and Life For Entrepreneurship Success

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Success as an entrepreneur doesn't come easy. You have to be able to balance work and life while juggling a million other things. But it is achievable.

Join us for this episode of Push To Be More where Jim Martin from Align Digital shares the valuable lessons he's learnt while trying to find the elusive work-life balance and becoming a successful entrepreneur.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Jim found it difficult to work as a marketer in Argentina, so he resorted to his family's book publishing business. After some time working there, Jim and his wife moved to New Zealand where he had to start from the bottom again.
After arriving in New Zealand, Jim was surprised by the amount of days off given to employees. With time he adapted well to the Kiwi lifestyle such that he can no longer imagine returning to a life with excessive working hours and no holidays.
He switched from agency life to an entrepreneurial life, as he could better manage his time and work on his terms. He has learned to check his ambitions and set achievable milestones.
Jim started his own business, Align Digital with partners he knew from the agency. However, when agencies weren't paying for their services and relationships between partners became strained, he dissolved the partnership and relaunched his company. To compete more effectively, he decided to build a team and expand his services.
Jim emphasizes that there is no one "magic bullet" to competing with younger individuals in the industry. Consistency is key--bringing a patient and long-term mindset can lead to success.
Jim regularly sets aside time for his family and friends. He also tries to spend special quality time with each of his kids. He has found that structuring his life around these regular activities gives him the sense of balance he needs.

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ABOUT JIM

Jim is a Communication Sciences graduate from Argentina who has found his passion for marketing and moved to New Zealand in search of the illusive work-life balance. He kickstarted his career at ACG Education, playing a role in growing the company to was later sold for 500M NZD. After this success, he moved on to an international marketing agency where he led a team of 16 and achieved remarkable growth. Jim then founded Align Digital, a consultancy that helps SMEs optimize customer journeys and conversions. Align Digital has assessed over 1000 sites and created 500 landing pages to date, and is now launching a new startup called 'Conversion Club' to train marketing teams.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Breaking the Stigma: One Entrepreneur's Journey Through Depression and Success in Property Management

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Depression. A lot of people suffer from it in silence and feel like they're the only ones going through it. But that's not true.

Darren Bennett from Fortem Property joins Matt in this episode to share about his journey of dealing with depression and finding success in the property business amid the current economic climate.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Darren has found having a long-term therapist or mentor to be a huge help in dealing with his struggles with mental health. Breaking down goals into achievable targets helps provide positivity.
Therapists can help condition the mind in the same way physical exercise conditions the body. There is a stigma around males seeking help, but it is important for men to reach out for assistance.
Brexit brought an opportunity in the form of devaluation of British sterling, however mortgage rates have since increased. To deal with the situation, Darren switched his business model to focus more on property management for residual income and stability.
There is a lot of money circulating in the system currently due to Government support, which may influence property prices. Darren predicts that interest rates will come down, but not to the levels they were before.
Darren loves to travel and recommends traveling and living abroad to those who can work remotely. He also exercises regularly to keep fit.

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ABOUT DARREN

Darren is an entrepreneur with itchy feet and loves to travel. He co-founded the Fortem Property with Omar and has been supporting international clients in the UK real estate market since 2012. He’s worked with a host of developers, landlords and investment agencies, and this experience has given him an excellent, all-round understanding of how to achieve success with property. He and Omar formed the business resolving to offer clients something new and different: better opportunities in the market, greater accountability and responsiveness, and ready access to genuine, honest advice.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Cool Connections: Working with Interesting People and Successful Entrepreneurs

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 18:00:00 +0000

It seems like everywhere we look these days people are trying to do more and be more. But more isn't always better and it isn't about how much you're doing but its about delivering quality, the value you are adding, and being able to enjoy the things that matter most in life.

Tune in to this week's episode where Ross Hetherington from Snapify Marketing shares about his journey of finding the job that he enjoys doing, the challenges he's had to face and the lessons he's learnt along the way.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Ross left his first job in marketing to launch Snapify, a Snapchat marketing agency as it was a great opportunity for businesses to reach younger demographics. The agency created filters for bars, clubs, restaurants, festivals and other businesses that would only show up within a certain radius.
When deciding on a social media strategy, Ross says it is important to focus on one or two channels and do them well rather than trying to be everywhere at once. Businesses should choose their focus platform depending on their target audience.
LinkedIn is a powerful platform that should be taken seriously by businesses. Personal profiles on LinkedIn are more effective than company pages at the moment. Ross suggests focussing on building connections with relevant target audiences, rather than emphasizing quantity.
Ross faced personal challenges when navigating university and post-university life. He found it difficult to decide between going the same route as everyone else or something different. He took on different roles to identify what he did not like in order to narrow down his focus.
Ross has found that attitude is more important than aptitude when hiring new staff. Learning from mistakes is an important part of the process. He says that people who are keen to learn and question things, even without experience, can make great hires.
As an introvert, Ross needs time away from work to recharge and focuses on activities such as taking a walk, meditating, reading and journaling. He loves playing and watching football as well.

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ABOUT ROSS

Ross is the founder and CEO of Snapify Marketing which is a Digital Marketing Agency in Liverpool that helps clients all over the world to sell more products, get more leads, sell out events & find their audience online. Before setting off on his own adventures, Ross worked in a large agency helping clients dominate Google. Now, he finds himself expecting his first child, building his first home office and cot, both major DIY projects and is an avid LFC fan and like many of us is struggling with his LFC identity this season.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Discovering The Leader In You

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 18:00:00 +0000

A lot of people never reach their potential because they don't know how to find that leader inside them. In today's episode of Push To Be More, Erin Meads shares her secrets to discovering her superpowers and becoming the best possible version of herself.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Erin regrets that children today have less freedom and innocence than she did in her childhood. She is mindful to create an environment for her own child that isn't based on fear so they can grow up feeling secure and lead a successful adult life.
Erin has recently begun to understand the importance of understanding her strengths, blind spots, and internal motivations. She always had an inquisitive nature as a kid and it has been reignited in recent years. Her questioning helps her create solutions for long-term cures instead of quick fixes or bandaids.
Erin took tests such as Myers Briggs and HBDI to gain insight into her strengths. She encourages people to look at these results with an open mind in order to understand how they affect them personally. As a leader, she emphasizes the importance of talking about self-awareness on a daily basis in order to support each other within teams or groups.
Erin shares an example of coaching a nurse who was making decisions based on fear instead of what she wanted to move towards positively. She suggested that companies should focus on leading with positive actions towards desired outcomes instead of trying to avoid negative ones.
To recharge her batteries Erin does Pilates which allows her to switch off from technology for some time; getting out in nature also helps with this process. As well as these activities Erin uses an app to help turn the brain off at night and listens to podcasts or meditates.

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ABOUT ERIN

Erin has spent over 20 years working in Healthcare. Spending her first few years working as a Registered Nurse travelling across New Zealand and Australia, the ‘itch’ to make a greater impact for people’s experiences in health care led her down the path of working in leadership roles from her mid 20’s… humbling, challenging and rewarding!

In recent years, after a few surprising life events, Erin has been on a journey to really understand who she is. This has enabled her to further expand her skills and lean into her superpowers for how she best leads and supports teams and individuals in their workplaces.

Erin thrives on supporting organisations, individuals and teams through change and creating opportunities where others may see obstacles. Having years of experience leading and working across multiple organisations in Healthcare, Erin has had to navigate many ‘glass walls’ to continue her pursuit of achieving impactful results that focuses on ‘the cure not the band aid’.

Erin is also a wife, mother to a very special little boy and step mum. She loves a great coffee, pilates and is hugely passionate about all things sunscreen!

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

When Glory Beckons

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 18:00:00 +0000

We sometimes think that living a life of legacy means becoming famous or wealthy, but that's not always the case. In fact, there are many ways to leave a lasting impact on the world.

Chandra Selvadurai joins Matt in today's episode of Push To Be More to talk about the challenges he's had to face in life (including a few near death experiences) and how they've given him a constant motivation and push to make every moment count and leave a legacy behind!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Chandra was born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and moved to the UK, then Australia before settling in New Zealand. He met his wife Amanda on a blind date while living in New Zealand and they will celebrate their 30th anniversary next year. They have two grown children - Logan and Anjuli.
A key challenge came in 2019 when Chandra collapsed on a train from Manchester to London. He was lucky enough that two young doctors heard the call from the guard and got him off at Milton Keynes where he was able to recover before returning home safely after being deemed "incompatible with life" by medical professionals.
Chandra experienced a near death experience at the age of six when he fell into a large drain in Malaysia. An orthopedic surgeon said they had to amputate his right leg or else he would die. A friend of their family, who was also an orthopedic surgeon, heard about this and offered to help them instead. He saved Chandra's life. This gave him motivation to push himself forward as well as encouragement from his parents: never give up, always move forward, be good people.
Chandra draws energy from interactions with people and strives for a situation where both parties are better off. He believes in spending time with those who have the same energy and says that life is too short to not enjoy what you do, or interact with people who don't mean something special to him.
Chandra believes that organic growth, leveraging existing partnerships and relationships, looking for new types of businesses to bring on board and pursuing growth by acquisition are the four elements necessary for successful growth. He is also motivated by leaving a legacy through his work which will live on in the hearts of people he works with as well as those who come after him.

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ABOUT CHANDRA

Chandra is a seasoned business executive with a strong background in international pharma and MedTech businesses. He is the MD of Pharmaco - a company that is here to improve lives by delivering exceptional healthcare products which make a profound difference to people’s health and well-being.

Chandra is known for strategic thinking combined with a tactical approach to drive business results, as well as team motivation, collaboration and communication skills at all levels of the organization - and if that's not enough - he is just a top bloke, has a beautiful family and loves to drive old Jags...what's there not to love about him?!

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Balance, Being, Body and Business

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 18:00:00 +0000

A lot of people seem to think that in order to be successful, they have to give up all other aspects of their life, but that's not true. In fact, finding balance is one of the most important things you can do if you want to grow a successful business.

Join us for a brand new episode where Brendon Macdonald from Digital Smile Design talks about his journey, the lessons he learnt as an entrepreneur and how it helped him grow and be successful in life.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Brendon & his wife started their business over 10 years ago when a large publishing company left Europe after the 2008 crash. They started to sell advertising for their magazine and eventually bought out the other partners in the dental publication. As digital media became more popular they decided to start Yello Veedub as a social media marketing agency with 50+ dental clients including DSD who later bought their agency.
Brendon talks about the challenges he faced when he went from having his own agency and making all the decisions himself to working for DSD as an employee.
Brendon experienced an identity crisis with his business, Yello Veedub. He was constantly in a fight for survival and had no time to reflect or grow as an individual. After the sale of Yello Veedub, Brendon began focusing on four main pillars: balance, being, business and body.
There are three key areas to meaningful growth: autonomy, mastery and purpose. Brendon realized he was holding his team back by providing all the answers himself instead of allowing them autonomy and self-discovery. Becoming a coach was one of the biggest learning moments for him - working on the business rather than just within it had huge impacts on both his own productivity and morale within his organization.
Brendon suggests focusing on balance in order to maximize business performance. He recommends listing activities that are classified as working in the business and assigning a percentage of time towards them. He also emphasizes building processes, delegating tasks, and creating autonomy within the team to free up more time for long-term planning.
People are always looking to move up and have more success, defined however they see fit. This can be a difficult mindset to break out of, but it is possible. Brendon has gone through many changes in the past few years and shares that it was difficult at first because he had to get used to not being in charge all the time. He has since learned how to better communicate with those around him and present his ideas in a way that is more effective.

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ABOUT BRENDON

Brendon is an astute problem solver who strives for excellence and executes plans with care and determination. He inspires others with his discerning nature and conscientious, measured approach.

Brendon Macdonald is Sales & Marketing Director at Digital Smile Design (DSD) where he took this position when DSD acquired Yello Veedub, his Sales & Marketing Agency in 2018. Yello Veedub, a Full Service Sales & Marketing Agency in 2015, specializing in the dental market. Before this he was involved in several social media consulting and e-commerce businesses focusing and specialising in the global health sector.

Brendon has extensive experience in brand & online digital strategies in the B2B & B2C healthcare & e-commerce sectors. He has a Bachelor of Economics from Rhodes University (2003) and worked in investment banking for a number of years before starting his own businesses in the retail sector before his last venture with Yello Veedub.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Bouncing Back as a Business Leader after Cancer Setback

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 18:00:00 +0000

A lot of people might think that when you go through something like cancer, your life is over. But that's not true.

In this podcast episode, Jayne Moore shares the lessons she learnt as she became more and more resilient in personal life as well as in business even after a second cancer diagnosis. From leading without getting paid, to dealing with conflict, Jayne has a wealth of experience to share which you would not want to miss out on.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Jayne began her career in administration and retail before moving to London. She was offered a job at Harrods, where she learned about people from all walks of life, including celebrities such as Princess Diana and Joan Collins. She was then headhunted by Lancaster for an ambitious role with the company that required her to move to Birmingham. That is where she met her future husband.
Jayne had a short stint in radio, which led to her running a small local station called KCI. She lost her voice on the first day of work and was eventually diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. She talks about how being the youngest in a family of six, she lacked confidence and always thought she needed someone else's help to succeed. But Karren Brady inspired and challenged her to realize her true potential.
Jayne believes that if you need to use someone's skills, they need to be paid for it. She does not like using students as volunteers to grow her business. She is proud of the Kickstart scheme which has enabled 80% of participants to consider full-time employment. Her husband being ex-military inspired her to build a support system around those transitioning out of the military into civilian life.
Jayne talks about how they recruit people. She says that they do not encourage a CV because it doesn't help create diversity and inclusion. Instead they want applicants to sent them a video or animation and express themselves in ways that a CV cannot capture. Additionally, speaking on the phone is encouraged since it shows one's ability to communicate effectively which is important when working with clients or influencers.
Jayne shares her struggles with cancer and menopause and how her team helped her take some time away and get through the tough times. She found strength in the idea that pain is growth, likening it to how lobsters grow by getting uncomfortable before breaking out of their shells into something new.

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ABOUT JAYNE

Jayne Moore is the founder and Chief Executive of Jayne Moore Media Group. She is a successful award-winning entrepreneur and business leader.

Jayne established Moore Media in 2011 and has developed it from a traditional public relations consultancy into a full multi-media communications agency, and this has equipped her to deliver the full breadth of PR, social media, and branding needs of clients in the digital age.

During lockdown 2020, Jayne developed I Am Moore to be a government gateway for the Kickstart scheme, successfully placing almost 300 young people into employment.

In addition to this, Jayne launched My Odd Job Guys, a handy person service working to place Ex-forces and blue light personnel into work and generating work placements for young people who have been affected by unemployment and homelessness.

Jayne is passionate about ensuring that challenging topics are communicated effectively. As a former magazine editor, she has an expert rep in reputation management and crisis management. She also gives her time to lead a number of organizations outside of work.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

From delivering pizza to conquering Amazon

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000

For most people, failure can be quite discouraging but failure is only a stepping stone to success. With the right attitude, you can achieve anything you want in life.

Tune in to this episode of Push to Be More where Ryan Flannagan from Nuanced Media shares his incredible journey of delivering pizza with an MBA to conquering Amazon!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Ryan talks about how he coped with failure at the start of his entrepreneurial journey. He recommends focusing on what you can control, understanding that things happen for a reason, and getting up every day to keep moving forward. He also talks about how important it is to have a win-win mindset when it comes to business relationships.
Matt and Ryan discuss the idea that going through tough times makes a person stronger, how taking risks is a part of being an entrepreneur, and staying true to your morals is important, especially when things are tough.
Experience is a highly valuable asset in business. Knowing what not to do is as crucial as knowing what to do, as is focusing on the things that will make you money, rather than wasting time on things that won't.
Ryan talks about his major goals in life - to provide value, be financially independent, stay physically healthy, and be a great husband/father/citizen.
Ryan believes that exercising for at least 30 minutes a day is key to resetting your metabolism and being the best version of yourself. Meditation and focusing on his goals are also important elements of self-care for him. He believes in the power of affirmation, or taking time to appreciate what you do have in your life.

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ABOUT RYAN

Ryan is the CEO of Nuanced Media, and has spent more than fifteen years in eCommerce, multi-channel digital marketing, and third-party marketing places. He has worked with hundreds of companies to establish best practices, focusing on the 20 per cent that produces 80 per cent of the revenue.

Ryan is a passionate thought leader in the eCommerce industry. He has been interviewed and quoted by Buzz Feed, Modern Retail, as well as many other news outlets - including the eCommerce Podcast.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

The Art of Levelling Up

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000

David Perry is a firm believer that the ability to relate in conversation on a whole host of different topics will create opportunities for meaningful connections that can help you grow your business.

Join us for this episode of Push to be More as he shares his thoughts on leadership, how he deals with challenges and the importance of learning something about everything and everything about something!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

David moved to England in the early 1990s. He got involved with the game, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, which was a huge success and led to Playmates Toys funding his own video game company, Shiny Entertainment. From there, he went on to have an incredibly successful career in video games, e-commerce businesses, and more - all thanks to taking advantage of opportunities as they arose.
David discusses the idea of levelling up. In a video game, every little thing you do progresses you towards the next level. This keeps people playing. In life too, sometimes people get stuck and don't move forward If they don't know what the next stage is, or can't see themselves getting closer to a goal.
According to David, titles are not important in a company. He talks about how to use the idea of levelling up in leadership by finding 10Xers (talented people who just work it out) and hiring those who think outside the box.
David talks about the importance of continuous growth and learning new things, even if they don't seem immediately relevant. He recounts a story of how he got free servers for his startup by cold-calling companies from Wikipedia and how such attitude gets things done.
Learning something about everything and everything about something is a philosophy David consciously adopted which has led him to some amazing opportunities in his life.

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ABOUT DAVE

David Perry is an innovative leader in the gaming industry whose technology has shaped how we see gaming today and in the future. His work with Gaikai led to Sony PlayStation acquiring his company to establish itself in streaming video games from the cloud - PlayStation Now.

David now finds himself as the CEO of Carro, a partnership e-commerce network designed for Shopify brands. By teaming up with other companies in the same space, over 30,000 brands using Carro are able to improve brand recognition, sales volume and acquire new customers.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

True To Myself

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000

A lot of people seem to struggle with this idea of being true to themselves and often times end up doing things they don't want to do or compromising their values just to fit in or please others.

In this episode, Chris Ivers shares why it's important to stay true to yourself, how to strike the right work-life balance and what to do when the going gets tough.

Here's some of the great great stuff that we cover in this show:

Chris talks about her experience transitioning from a big agency to running her own small business. She says that when you run your own business, you suddenly have an appreciation for all the different facets involved in keeping it afloat.
One of the keys to success for creatives is learning how to walk away from their work and take breaks in order to avoid burnout.
The global financial meltdown of 2008 impacted Chris's advertising agency and it was difficult to keep the business running during that time. But she is proud of her team and herself for making it through.
Getting the right people around you, particularly around finance, to help set up and run your business from a financial standpoint is Chris' advice to business owners.
Chris enjoys being outside and spending time on her farm in New Zealand. She likes to stay active, and enjoys diving, fishing, swimming, and walking. She is a creative person who appreciates art galleries and live theater.

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ABOUT CHRIS

Chris has been a Director of her own advertising and brand strategy agency for over 15 years, and understands what it takes to build a successful business. Getting the right people and giving them an inspiring vision, creating teams that know where they are heading, and feeling passionate about what they are achieving is what she strives to deliver. If you get this right, growth follows.

Chris is an unusual combination of left and right-brain thinking with a career that is truly a creative background: one where new ideas, complex problem solving, and critical thinking were a daily occurrence.

She was born and bred in New Zealand and loves the country. She believes businesses can deliver not only economic success, but social success and works hard to help New Zealand and the Kiwis succeed.-----------------------

For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Just Keep Turning Up

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Ready to discover the hidden wisdom of "just keep turning up"? Check out this episode with guest Andrew Kelly on the power of curiosity and unstoppable motivation! This inspiring journey is guaranteed to help you move forward one step at a time.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Andrew became interested in cycling in his early teenage years. He went on to pursue this passion and raced competitively in Australia and Europe, but had to stop due to a burst appendix, which almost killed him. but looking back, he feels happy about how things turned out.
He shares how the lessons learned from road cycling - such as the importance of conserving energy and always showing up - have impacted his life.He credits his coach with teaching him the "great secret" of just turning up, which has led to success both in his career and personal relationships.
He attributes his success to curiosity, something that drives him to constantly seek out new information and knowledge.
Andrew is an avid reader and considers reading a valuable pastime because it requires imagination and effort. It also helps spark new ideas and fuel curiosity.
Talking about his work with the Antarctic Science Foundation, Andrew shares how Antarctica is a huge repository of information that could help us understand our moment in time and build strategies to mitigate climate change.

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ABOUT ANDREW

Andrew Kelly started his career with eight years in banking and at the same time, competed at an elite level in Road Cycling. It was here that Andrew learned the importance of preparation for racing, training, visualisation, strategy, analysis, persistence, tenacity, determination, accountability…and, as we are talking about today - the unsexy wisdom behind the idea of just keep turning up.

He went on to build and sell an advertising agency before heading to the third sector captivated with the idea of doing good in society. Across two decades, he has witnessed the power of generosity by facilitating transformational gifts to Youth Off The Streets, The Smith Family, The Refugee Advice and Casework Service (RACS), the Society of St Vincent De Paul and Children’s Medical Research Institute.

Andrew is now the CEO of The Antarctic Science Foundation, which creates connections between philanthropists and researchers to enable catalytic scientific research on the Icy Continent and is an Observer on the Australian Antarctic Science Council.

He still cycles around 300km per week, plays the piano and guitar, reads lots of books but his self-proclaimed favourite role is simply being a dad!

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Leading with Intention and Authenticity

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 18:00:00 +0000

Are you ready to become a more intentional and authentic leader? Learn from our guest, Brett Curry's inspiring stories, practical strategies, and expert advice on leading with integrity and staying rooted in your values.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Brett Curry has been in the digital marketing industry for a long time and has seen many changes. Throughout his journey, he has learned many lessons - one of the most important being to hire people who will fit into the company culture. He also believes in training and supporting employees so they can reach their full potential.
Brett highlights the importance of being authentic as a leader. People can tell when you're not being genuine and that if you have the right team, they will appreciate your transparency.
Brett discusses the importance of delegation in parenting and business. He and his wife always wanted a big family and they have eight kids who are being homeschooled. They believe that having a strong relationship is key to their success as a family.
In order to stay centered, Brett has restructured his diet, regulates his sleep, and uses a five minute journal. What really matters in life is something that Brett learned at a young age after losing his mother to cancer.

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ABOUT BRETT

Brett is a seasoned entrepreneur, digital marketer and podcast host. He leads an 8-Figure ad agency of Google, YouTube and Amazon marketing rockstars. Brett is also the father of 8 children, and a basketball coach.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Thriving Under Pressure

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Resilience is not something to be learned, but something to be discovered. It requires an inner sense of knowing and can be developed through the experience of facing challenges and pressure. Whether it's conquering your day-to-day tasks or striving for a bigger goal, resilience is the key to success.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Entrepreneurship is about more than just having a good idea--it's also about being confident and resilient. It can be difficult for entrepreneurs to find the right team members who complement their skillset, but it's essential in order to create a successful business. Resilience is key in entrepreneurship--without it, businesses are likely to fail.
As an entrepreneur, it is important to be able to work in the front line and understand what the real problems are. It is also important to have a mind that is resilient and can tolerate ambiguity. Part of being an entrepreneur is learning to be a leader. A leader is someone who works in the front line and has enough capacity to take on other people's problems.
Matt and Simon discuss the importance of core values and how they can help you understand when it is time to move on from a situation. For Simon, one of his core values is people. He loves being around people and finds them essential for success. However, he also recognises that as he gets older, he may need to find ways to recharge that don't require so much face-to-face interaction.

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ABOUT SIMON

Simon has spent over 40 years of creating and delivering projects and figuring out this whole entrepreneurial thing! Starting out life as a dentist, moving into the sun-bed and eventually the health spa game he sold it all and moved to NZ. Now he creates change and development in peoples lives and their business, with 1-2-1 coaching and mentoring. He's also been doing a lot of short-term change assignments in the health sector.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Don't Let The Impossible Derail The Possible

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

A lot of times we get held back by our limitations, but the truth is that most of these limitations are self-imposed and mind over matter. In this episode, Ram Gidoomal shares his journey of going from a rich boy to a refugee and then coming full circle to succeed in ways beyond his imagination. His story is nothing short of inspiring!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Ram Gidoomal is a British author, businessman, and philanthropist who has written several books, including his most recent one - The Silk Road. He decided to write this book to highlight the issues facing young Asian women and the differential treatment between men and women in their community.
Ram was born into an Indian immigrant family of silk traders in Kenya and enjoyed an idyllic childhood in Mombasa. As he turned 17, his family endured devastating second deportation, to London. Starting from scratch, his family worked hard and eventually became very successful.
In 1987, Ram visited the slums of Bombay and was shocked by what he saw. He joined hands with Steve Chalke to initiate Christmas Cracker, a project that aimed to raise 1 million pounds for 200 youth groups across the UK. The project ended up raising nearly 5 million pounds over 7 years.
In 2000, Ram was approached to run for Mayor of London by a new Christian Democrat party. He agreed to run, and his campaign shifted the political agenda to focus on the needs of the carless, homeless and jobless. Gidoomal proposed issuing a 500 million pound bond to regenerate East London, and today social impact finance has reached over a billion pounds in London.

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ABOUT RAM

RAM GIDOOMAL was born into an Indian immigrant family in Kenya and has worked for over 30 years at board and senior management level in the private, public, and voluntary sectors. At present he is, among other things, Chair of Cotton Connect. Author of several books, and recipient of Honorary Doctorates from three UK universities, he is included in High flyers 50 - the 50 most eminent people of Indian origin living and working outside India. In 1998 he was appointed a CBE by HM The Queen.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.

Well That Didn’t Work. Let’s Try Something Else!

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Leading a business is not an easy feat and the organisation changes only as fast as the slowest person there. Ian Finch, the CEO of Mando joins Matt in the first episode of Push to be More to share his learnings on how to build a sustainable future and growing a little bit better each day!

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Mando is a digital agency that focuses on technology and change. They offer services such as managed services, professional services, and consultancy services. They have a few programs of work every year with a relatively small customer base.
In their first year, the company picked up a one-page website and some brochureware. They landed their first competitive pitch with Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation and delivered a successful project. This led to more work with bigger brands, including Sony and Final Fantasy. The company then developed their own technology and partnered with other companies to create an e-learning system which then opened the door to working with even bigger clients who were looking for a combination of experience design, best-of-breed technology, and systems support.
In the early 2000s, after the dot com bubble burst, the company decided to focus on design and problem solving instead of just media and games. They also changed their sales strategy from trying to sell anything to treating sales more like project management and facilitation. Recently, they have been focusing on becoming more vertical in terms of market proposition and building intellectual property.
In his forties, Ian realizes that less is more. He says he has four rooms in his life: emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual. He tries to do something mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally every day to stay balanced.

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ABOUT IAN

Ian Finch is CEO of Mando, a digital agency focused on engineering positive change in organisations through specialist product development teams. Ian is also a husband and dad, mental health advocate, a big fan of outdoor pursuits and a yoga devotee.

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For complete show notes, transcript and links to our guest, check out our website: www.pushtobemore.com.