The Fearless Business Podcast

My guest today is Daniel Priestley. Daniel Priestley is the author of four best-selling books Key Person of Influence, Entrepreneur Revolution, Oversubscribed and 24 Assets.

Daniel is a successful entrepreneur who's built and sold businesses in Australia, Singapore, and the UK. He's the co-founder of Dent Global, one of the world's top business accelerators for entrepreneurs and leaders to stand out and scale up.

With offices in London, Sydney and Toronto Dent's accelerator programs have global reach. Endorsed by the Institute of Leadership and Management, over 500 entrepreneurs and leaders, each year participate globally in developing their businesses with the support of high net worth mentors.

He's named in the Top 10 Business Advisors in the UK by Enterprise Nation and one of the top 25 entrepreneurs in London in the Smith & Williamson Power 100 Awards.

What we’ll be discussing on this episode:

• The four drivers for a market imbalance
• Building an audience in a specific niche
• Encouraging prospects to signal interest in products
• Building marketing assets (P4Ps) and why it’s important to use these instead of mindless outbound marketing
• Why being a Key Personal of Influence in your industry is so important

What Are Buying Signals in Sales?

We’ve all been there, chatting with a prospect, not sure if they’re on the fence or about to leap in with both feet. So, how do you know when someone is actually interested in your offer and it’s time to move in for the sale? That’s where buying signals come in.

Simply put, buying signals are clues, verbal, physical, or written, that show your prospect is seriously considering making a purchase. Missing these signals can mean walking away empty-handed, while spotting them lets you nudge the conversation toward a decision with confidence.

Spotting Buying Signals

Buying signals generally fall into three buckets:

• Questions: When a client starts asking about things like delivery times, payment options, or how the service works behind the scenes, you’re onto something. These questions aren’t just polite chit-chat, they’re windows into their intent and interest. For example:

  • “How soon could this be delivered?”
  • “Is there a warranty included?”
  • “Can I customize this for my team?”

• Statements: Listen for comments that show the person is picturing themselves as an owner or user. If you hear things like “I could really see this freeing up my Friday afternoons,” or “This would fit right near the entrance,” they’re mentally moving forwards. Even simple affirmations, “Yes, that makes sense,” or “That’s what I need”, can be a green light.

• Non-Verbal Actions: Body language often says more than words. When someone leans in, nods, takes notes, or keeps revisiting a specific feature, those are classic signals. People in deep consideration mode might stroke their chin (classic!), tilt their head, or even doodle with their pen while thinking.

Why It Matters

Recognizing and acting when these buying signals pop up separates the order-takers from the rainmakers. When your prospect starts showing signs, through their words, their body language, or their questions, that’s your cue to help them make a decision, rather than delivering yet another feature dump.

Up next, we dig into...

Spotting Customer Signals: What Are They Really Telling You?

Let’s talk about something that’s often hiding in plain sight, those statements your prospects make that reveal they’re ready to buy, or at least leaning eagerly in that direction. Instead of relying solely on your super-sleuth sales instincts, tune your ear to the subtle cues your prospect drops into conversation.

You'll often hear phrases that shift from passive interest to active ownership: things like, “When I use this system, I’ll be able to process items more quickly,” or, “I think we’d get the best results if the machine was installed by the entrance.” Suddenly, they’re picturing themselves using your product. That's gold dust.

Other signs are even more straightforward, repeating your points back to you, nodding along, tossing in affirmations like “yes,” “right,” or “that’s exactly what we need.” Sometimes, they loop back to revisit a detail or ask to compare their options one more time, which usually means they’re narrowing things down in their mind.

If you catch someone weighing alternatives or rephrasing the outcomes after adopting your solution, you’re probably closer to a handshake than you think. So, keep an ear out; these little nuggets tell you that the prospect isn’t just interested, they’re picturing a future as your customer.

What kinds of customer questions are considered buying signals?

If you’re wondering how to spot genuine interest versus polite curiosity, pay attention to the kinds of questions a potential customer asks. True buying signals typically show up when someone starts bridging the gap between consideration and action. Here are some stellar examples:

• Delivery & Timing Inquiries: When a prospect asks “How soon could we get started?” or “What are your delivery timelines?”, they’re picturing your solution in their life or business. That’s a major green light.
• Price & Value Questions: Queries like “What’s the cost?” or “Are there different price options?” show they’re weighing affordability, but crucially, also evaluating if the investment is justified. At this point, it’s about reinforcing value, not just stating a number.
• Detail Clarifications: If someone circles back with questions about specific features or requests more detail, “Can you explain again what’s included in the premium package?”, it’s a sign they want to feel confident before proceeding.
• Seeking Reassurance: When prospects ask “Which option would suit us best?” or “Do you think this will solve our particular challenge?”, they’re picturing themselves as customers and looking for expert guidance before making the leap.

Spotting these signals means you’re not just chatting, you’re helping someone make a decision. That’s where real momentum begins.

Spotting Verbal Buying Signals

So, how do you know when someone’s genuinely warming up to your offer? Listen carefully, often, customers give away clear hints they're seriously thinking about making a purchase. Here are a few tell-tale signs to watch (or rather, hear) out for:

• Ownership language: Phrases like “When I use this…” or “Once I get this set up…” suggest your prospect is already picturing themselves with the product or service.
• Agreement and affirmation: Simple affirmations such as “yes,” “right,” “that sounds good,” or “okay,” even tossed in mid-conversation, can indicate their interest is peaking.
• Detail questions: If they start diving into specifics, like installation, delivery times, or customization, they’re probably picturing how it fits into their world.
• Repeating benefits: When someone echoes your points (“So, this will help me process orders faster?”), it generally means they value what you’re offering.
• Comparisons and options: If they’re weighing features or debating which package to pick, you’re in buying-signal territory.

Some prospects may also circle back to important points more than once, signaling they’re double-checking before making the leap.

Recognizing these genuine buying signals can give you the confidence to guide the conversation naturally toward closing, without being pushy or overly “salesy.”

How Customer Questions Reveal Buying Interest

Ever noticed how the best customers start asking questions? That’s a sure sign they’re warming up and leaning into your offer, it’s the green light that signals genuine buying interest.

Here are a few ways those questions show up:

• Delivery and Logistics: When someone asks, “How soon could we get started?” or “What’s the usual delivery timeframe?” it’s rarely idle curiosity. They’re picturing your product or service in their world, and that means they’re moving from browsing to seriously considering a purchase.

• Pricing Queries: If you hear “How much does it cost?” or “Is there a payment plan available?” that’s another strong signal. Sure, there may still be objections to handle, maybe they need reassurance on value, but pricing questions mean you’ve piqued their interest.

• Clarification Requests: Sometimes prospects dig into the details, asking about specs, features, or how something works. These aren’t time-wasters; they’re double-checking that your solution truly fits their needs.

• Seeking Recommendations: When someone says, “Which package do you think is best for me?” or “What would work best in our case?”, they’re inviting you into their decision process. They’re moving out of research mode and closer to closing the deal.

Bottom line: The quality of your prospect’s questions tells you how far along they are in their buying journey. Questions rooted in logistics, specific needs, or recommendations are your cue to guide them confidently toward a yes.

The Three Main Types of Buying Signals

So, what should you actually look out for when a prospect is interested? Buying signals typically fall into three buckets:

• Questions: When your potential client starts asking about specific details, timelines, pricing, delivery, next steps, you know their wheels are turning and they’re picturing themselves as your customer.
• Statements: These sound like, “I could see myself using this,” or “That feature would really help my business.” They’re voice-memos from your prospect’s brain, letting you know you’ve struck a chord.
• Non-Verbal Cues: Sometimes the buying signal doesn’t come in words at all. You’ll notice nodding, leaning forward, taking notes, or lingering a bit longer after a meeting. All these little gestures add up to interest you shouldn’t ignore.

Once you spot these signals, it’s your moment to step up and guide the conversation forward, helping your prospect make the leap from curious to committed.

Non-Verbal Signs Your Prospect is Ready to Buy

One of the most powerful things you can do in a sales conversation is to tune into what’s not being said. Non-verbal cues often speak louder than words, and skilled salespeople know that a prospect’s body language can reveal their true level of interest.

Keep an eye out for these tell-tale signs:

• Positive facial expressions: A relaxed, nodding head, or even a genuine smile typically signals agreement and receptiveness.
• Engaged posture: If they’re leaning in, turning their body toward you, or noticeably focusing in your direction, that’s a green light, they’re interested.
• Thoughtful gestures: Actions like stroking their chin, adjusting their glasses, or thoughtfully tapping a pen can mean they’re seriously weighing up what you’ve said. If they’re quietly contemplating, you’ve captured their attention.
• Wide, attentive eyes: Eyes that open a little wider or pupils that appear more dilated can be surprisingly good indicators of intrigue or fascination with your offer.
• Head tilts: A slight tilt of the head isn’t just curiosity, it often shows your prospect wants to know more and is genuinely engaged.

Notice several of these in a conversation? That’s your cue to gently move things forward, try a soft close or simply ask if they’d like to take the next step. When you tune into these subtle signals, you’ll spot golden opportunities to progress the sale before the competition even picks up on what’s happening.

Spotting Buying Signals Through Body Language

So, how can you really tell if a customer’s on the brink of buying, without them uttering a word? The secret’s in their body language.

Keep your eyes peeled for those moments when someone leans in during a conversation, or their head subtly nods as you talk about your offer, these aren’t just polite gestures; they’re green lights. A client who sits forward, maintains eye contact, or even tilts their head is usually signaling a genuine interest in what you’re saying.

Other tell-tale signs? Watch for people who begin to handle objects thoughtfully, a pen in the mouth, glasses twirled absentmindedly, or fingers tracing the edge of a notebook. These moves aren’t just fidgeting; they often show deep consideration and seriousness about the next step. You might also notice a shift in facial expressions, from neutral to more animated, or eyes widening slightly, a classic sign of curiosity or attraction to your proposal.

Of course, none of these signals guarantee a sale, but tuned-in salespeople treat them like gold dust. Over time, you’ll spot patterns in your own customers and know exactly when it’s time to ask for the close.

You can check out Dent’s website here: https://www.dent.global/

and complete the Key Person of Influence scorecard here: http://scorecard.keypersonofinfluence.com/

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

My guest today is Dean Coulson, Founder of The Lean Warrior. From IT consultant to gym owner and now performance lifestyle coach for want of a better term.

I help successful businessmen, entrepreneurs and CEO’s who are stressed, anxious and feel burnt out, optimise their health and performance so that they can relax, feel happy and fulfilled and spend more time with their family.

I show men how to remove fears and express who they really are and give them the tools and resources to thrive in all areas for their life.

I am married with one Son. I am passionate about health and what I see as its 4 elements that allow us to thrive. After been told we could never have kids naturally I embarked on a path uncovering what true health was to see if there was another way. turned out there was, and so Sam was conceived naturally.

I have been a martial artist for over 30 years, I have dan grades in different martial arts and have been inducted into the UK martial arts hall of fame.

In this Episode we’ll be talking about:

· My journey from owning my own IT consultancy changing careers into the wellness industry to creating my own coaching business.

· How trying to having kids literally changed the course of my life.

· How martial arts and physical self-protection marries into how I coach and how powerful it can be.

And connect with Dean here:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanncoulson/detail/recent-activity/shares/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DeanNCoulson
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeanCoulson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dean_n_coulson/
Website Address(es): www.theleanwarrior.com and www.deancoulson.co.uk

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Lena Robinson’s a straight-talking Kiwi that has built a powerful reputation for herself as savvy business person in London over the last 17 years. In 2018 she threw a grenade into her life to start FTSQ. She wanted to create a community that supported non-conformists and the business owners within that community. The aim being to support them, via her consultancy, in achieving everything they were told they couldn't by F***ing with The Status Quo.

She uses all of the knowledge, experience and the huge network of people she’s gained after almost 30 years in business across multiple countries to help others. She’s had a highly successful career in 'adland', started three companies (FTSQ’s her third, she sold her second). Has traded her parents business out of near disaster when the Inland Revenue (NZ equivalent to HMRC) threatened to end them. Has mentored many bright young people that have gone on to do amazing things, and has made millions for the companies she’s worked for and with. Lena is a tenacious, force of nature. She’s a maverick, but she’s also a caregiver, she will forever watch over the non-conformists, because they often struggle to stand up for themselves, she does so because she often sees in them that others do not.

Lena believes there is power in the unconventional, the different and the unorthodox.

Here’s what we’ll be discussing on this episode:

• Non-conformists.
• Being a non-conformist in big agency corporate life ie WPP (OgilvyOne, OgilvyAction, Wunderman), Vizeum, Dentsu etc.
• Why FTSQ Exists - what is FTSQ all about?
• My life story - it's a doozy
• Being a woman in business and not really feeling OK with being called a feminist - because I don't think I am Being a Kiwi in the UK There's power in your difference My illness - battling that while trying to keep my business alive

Let non-conformists know that there is a safe place to come to - FTSQ is a community where they can be weird, odd, unorthodox and know they'll be ok to be themselves there. Where one rule, rules all 'just don't be a dick'. Cause if you are, you answer to the Boss Lady and she will kick your ass out!

How to get hold of Lena:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinsonlena/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FTSQGoOn/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FTSQGoOn
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ftsq_go_on/
Website: https://www.ftsq.co.uk/

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

My guest today is Jonny Cooper, Founder and Author of Jonny Hates Marketing. Since growing a business to 8-figures and exiting, Jonny’s been supporting coaches, trainers, therapists and consultants who are serious about building their thriving practice, changing the world and enjoying a life of effortless abundance.

His Client Attraction Blueprint programme is filled with eager students every month and he’s closing in on his mission to impact the lives of 1,000,000 professionals by 2025.

Jonny’s Three Pillars of Effortless Marketing provides a template for universal success and growth to any aspiring coaches and therapists, and he’s passionate about increasing the average income across the profession.

He’s also the voice behind the legendary Jonny Hates Marketing Facebook Group, and swears that he really, really does hate marketing.

In this Episode we’ll be talking about:

• The one fatal mistake most coaches make when they’re starting out
• The three pillars of effortless marketing
• The reason average coaching income is so low across the globe
• Why Jonny Hates Marketing, and what he does instead
• How to build a coaching empire that doesn’t need you there
• The three key freedoms every coach should be shooting for
• How to build engagement on Facebook without paying for advertising
• Why you should ignore 99% of the population, 99% of the time
• Transitioning from expert to authority

And connect with Jonny here:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonnycooper/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/JonnyHatesMarketing/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonnycooper
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnyhatesmarketing/
Website: https://www.jonnyhatesmarketing.com/

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

My guest today is Robert Craven is the Founder of the Grow Your Digital Agency Initiative and MD of The Directors' Centre. He works with ambitious owner/directors of agencies and businesses helping them to the organisation they really want to run. So that they can live the lives they really want to lead.

He leads coaching and consulting programs for the top 10% of digital agencies in five countries, creating double-digit growth in profit, sales and headcount for the delegates.

He is author of Grow Your Digital Agency and Kick-Start Your Business (with a foreword by Sir Richard Branson). He lives in Bath with his wife and two dogs - his three wonderful children have escaped to live their own lives elsewhere!

We’re going to be discussing:

• What do high-performing businesses do differently from the rest?
• What is my approach to pricing? And take massive action.
• Is there such a thing as an Elevator Pitch?
• Is the best way to get business to focus on getting referrals?

What are we working on?

• Members hub for digital agency leaders.

How to contact Robert:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertcraven
Facebook: https://facebook.com/robert.craven1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/robert_craven
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robert_craven/
Website: https://www.robert-craven.com https://directorscentre.com

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

FOR MORE THAN 15 YEARS RICHARD HAS WORKED WITHIN THE AESTHETIC MEDICINE SECTOR, WITH MANY DIFFERENT TECHNOLOGIES AND PRODUCTS – HELPING THEM TO LAUNCH AND TO COMMERCIALISE THOSE INITIATIVES.

His background in software enabled him to bring iConsult – the first paperless client management system – to the sector, and last year saw him launch the first ever digital currency for the Aesthetic Market, along with a system that connects and links product manufacturers, practitioners and clients together and rewards best practice.

His bestselling book “Changing Faces”, has helped thousands of people around the world launch and grow their own aesthetic businesses. As part of his consultancy business, Richard has worked with everyone, from a small independent practice just starting out, right the way through to big, multi-site chains, and has been involved in deals from one box of filler through to £3M of breast implants.

Throughout his career Richard has worked with market-leading brands such as Allergan, Botox, Juvederm, ZO Skin Health, Regen PRP, Lynton Lasers, Hamilton Fraser, Aesthetic Source, Harley Academy, Schuco to name but a few.

All this insight and experience lead to the creation of the Aesthetic Entrepreneurs with Richard as lead coach... and where he presents the Facebook Live broadcasts.

In this Episode we’ll be talking about:

• Business Development Strategies
• Knowledge based business models

You can buy the Changing Face book on Amazon:- https://amzn.to/2xS5oA6

And connect with Richard here:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardcrawfordsmall/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RCrawfordSmall/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RCrawfordSmall
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r_crawfordsmall
Website: https://www.aesthetic-entrepreneurs.com

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

 

A 25 year business career took David Gammon from a 16 year old Clerical Assistant to Director of Financial Operations via such incredible organisations as Tesco, Selfridges, Diageo, Ernst and young, Energis, Orange and British Gas.

I now work with Small and Medium sizes businesses training, developing and coaching Owners, Directors, Managers and key employees using a powerful yet simple blend of commercial and psychological tools.

My goals is to help everyone to bring their best performance and also to have a significantly heightened experience of their business work.

On the show we discuss:

• I work with the Directors and Leadership teams of £2m + businesses. I deliver Business coaching and Leadership development
• What creates high performance?
• My coaching technology is to work with people at a deeply transformational level so they don't need me as quickly as possible
• Why I don't encourage goal setting among my clients
• Why I don't like business books :-)
• Maybe why I see problems with the way most Business coaches organise around their clients

David runs monthly discovery Days for interested MD's and regular leadership development webinars. Best thing is to connect with me via social media or email: dave@sixthsensebusiness.com and https://www.facebook.com/SixthSenseBusiness/

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Ash Ali and Hasan Kubba are startup entrepreneurs. Despite not going to university, Ash became an award-winning serial tech entrepreneur and the first marketing director of Just Eat (now worth over £5 billion). Hasan built a successful startup from his bedroom with nothing more than an online course and a yearning to escape the corporate ‘rat race’. They have each spoken at TEDx, advised and mentored hundreds of startups all over the world and are passionate about spreading the opportunities of startup entrepreneurship.

In this Episode we’ll be talking about:

• How would you encapsulate what the Unfair Advantage book is all about.
• Author backgrounds.
• How did you end up writing this book?
• What is an Unfair Advantage
• What is the MILES framework
• You say Status is most powerful. Can you tell us more about Status?
• How do you come up with a start up idea?
• What are the two different types of start ups?
• What has the journey been like getting a publishing deal and the actual writing of this book?
• What's the one thing you want readers to take from this book?
• What do you think about higher education, entrepreneurship degrees and MBAs for aspiring entrepreneurs?

You can buy their book, The Unfair Advantage on Amazon:

• https://amzn.to/2IESM1m

And connect with Hasan and Ash here:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashali// https://www.linkedin.com/in/startuphasan/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unfairadvantagetraining/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ash_ali / https://twitter.com/startuphasan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashaliuk// https://www.instagram.com/startuphasan/
Website: https://theunfairadvantage.co.uk/

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Marc Mawhinney is a lifelong entrepreneur who helps coaches get more clients (without paid advertising!). He achieves this with his coaching programs, his podcast (Natural Born Coaches), his Facebook group (The Coaching Jungle) and his exclusive hard copy newsletter (Secret Coach Club).

He's been a speaker at events like Social Media Marketing World, frequently makes media appearances and has contributed to publications like Entrepreneur.com. You can learn more about Marc at www.marc.coach

Here’s some of the things that we talked about in this episode:

• Starting a successful business on a shoestring budget
• Building your online business WITHOUT fancy funnels or expensive ads!
• Increasing your fees and charging what you're worth
• Bouncing back from adversity and dealing with haters
• Polarizing for profits: why people pleasing is dangerous
• Using daily emails to turn your email list into a cash register!
• How I built my Facebook group to 17,000+ without spending a penny on ads!
• Thick Face, Black Heart - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Thick-Face-Black-Heart-Philosophy/dp/0446670200

Here’s how you can get hold of Marc:

The Jungle Mastermind: www.JungleMastermind.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcmawhinney/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NaturalBornCoaches/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcmawhinney
Website: https://www.NaturalBornCoaches.com, https://www.Marc.coach

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

I’m known as the Crocodile Dundee of direct response copywriters. It’s a title I’m happy to have. I often have people try to impress me with their copy and the profits it's made them.

Yet as soon as I see their copy, I can instantly see where they are leaving money on the table. A quick “That’s not a profit! This is a profit” tweak . . . and they are making more money than they thought humanly possible.

Over the last 12 years I have mentored many copywriters across the globe.

And many of them went on to become world class and A-List copywriters and work for companies such as Agora Financial.

And I do it all while I live the International Lifestyle which began in 2006.

Long before I got into copywriting and marketing . . . I was in the banking profession.

Most of which was as a commercial lending manager.

During my banking career I estimate I interviewed over 10,000 business owners, pulled apart in excess of 35,000 sets of financial statements over a 20 year banking career.

This included 5 years as a self-employed commercial finance broker . . . brokering multi-million dollar deals for my clients between the greedy banks.

Since 2001, my breakthrough advertising and marketing strategies have consistently helped my clients double, triple, even quadruple their business.

At times . . . even more.

Here’s what Matt Furey (one of the speakers) said about me.

“Trevor Crook has a rare ability to find the financial leaks in any business that most great entrepreneurs cannot see. Once found, his powerful and insightful marketing methods quickly increase income while creating customer loyalty.

If you want the 'straight-scoop' with zero fluff, then pay attention to everything Trevor teaches about copywriting and marketing.

He is one of those rare marketers who can turn words into a magic elixir . . . from the stage or through his sensational copy. He has a knack for turning lemons into lemonade . . .”

In this Episode we’ll be talking about:

• Living The International Lifestyle.
• How to turn your words into cash.

How to Contact Trevor:

Your LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toecracker/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BeersBourbonAndBusiness
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theinternationallifestyle/
Website: http://toecracker.com/

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Entrepreneurs with big growth goals realize there’s a substantial gap between where they are now and where they want to be. Sharon Cully, owner and founder of Simply Processes, knows the best way to close that gap is through a clear, robust vision and well-crafted processes all with the right level of focus.

Over the course of 15+ years managing teams and leading projects in blue chip FMCG companies (including Coca-Cola, Diageo and GlaxoSmithKline), Sharon has successfully employed best practices and process improvement methods to increase performance and minimize inventory/operating costs, all while meeting customer objectives. She’s learned what it takes for large companies to succeed and grow, and that ongoing, recurring problems can kill business growth.

Sharon founded Simply Processes as a way to utilize her corporate experience to help smaller entrepreneurial companies gain control over their business processes, ultimately making more money while also freeing up the owner’s time, giving them more choices – to grow or sell their business, or simply work less. She works with entrepreneurs who have already been successful, but are now feeling stuck, helping them scale to the next level by working with their teams to put systems and processes in place. Clear, documented tasks and responsibilities, along with successful automation and delegation, ensure that everyone delivers consistently outstanding results.

Sharon is based in the UK but also spends a few months a year visiting family in New Zealand and South Africa, successfully avoiding the winter! Owning an online coaching and consulting business fits in well with her travels.

What we cover during the episode:

• Setting goals for your business and how to go about reaching them
• Why processes are critical to achieving your big growth goals
• Clarifying your personal measures of success - not always measured in dollar terms
• How to bring your team with you on a change journey
• Coaching and developing your team to get the best from them

A couple of GIFTS for you:

Please head on over to www.simplyprocesses.com/FearlessBusiness to download:

• my white paper: Want your team to support a big change to your business?
• 7 steps to success
• a free 45-minute coaching session with me: Scale Up Your Business

And to get in touch:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-cully/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SimplyProcesses/?modal=admin_todo_tour

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Website: https://www.simplyprocesses.com/

Native South African, David Stafford's parents originate from the UK.

Nothing much on early life, except I did kind of beat a Mild version of Thyroid Cancer as a teenager.

My career path started when I studied Finance in Uni to get into the hedgefund world, but in my Third year - I had a change of heart. I job-shadowed a Portfolio Manager for big local hedge fund and all I saw was that this career would be the death of me.

So, midway in my third year, I did a lot of self-development, exploring options across the board. Rich Dad Poor Dad made me realize I needed to become a Business Owner.

And from there I met my first mentor: Ryan Sletcher. He brought me into the Internet Marketing World and brought out my love for advertising.

From there, after learning all about Info Product Marketing from him - I went my own way, freelanced and had projects working with awesome companies from all over the world. Education Brands, Local Celebs, Growing Tech Companies etc.

Decided to focus down on the Therapy industry after I saw amazing results working with a local Reflexologist and as I speak, am now making the transition from the Agency business model, to the consulting business model.

David will soon be launching Client Engine which is an Lead Generation Accelerator programme for Therapists...watch this space.

What we’ll be covering on this Episode:

• Advertising Strategies, Platforms & Practices that work in 2020
• When to start advertising for yourself
• Changing business models and what it takes to build a killer coaching/consulting program (feel like you and I can rap on that one for a bit.)
• One type of advert you can make RIGHT NOW, that can bring in new clients by this time next week.
• What it takes to succeed with advertising
• A bit on how to scale (we'll leave the juicy parts for your Fearless Business Group ;) )

How to get in touch with David:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-stafford-37934910b/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.b.stafford.1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/david_b_stafford/

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Aleric ( al-er-ic ) Heck started out on YouTube 10 years ago by building the largest app review channel on the platform, AppFind, with over 400k subscribers.

He discovered the power of YouTube Ads 5 years ago and ran highly profitable campaigns for dozens of companies all over the world. Now, he helps entrepreneurs & marketers harness the power of YouTube Ads to grow & scale their businesses
through AdOutreach.

Aleric has been on YouTube for over 10 Years & scaled his first channel on YouTube to over 400k+ subscribers.

His company AdOutreach has helped hundreds of clients leverage the power of YouTube Ads to generate a collective 8-figures in revenue.

Aleric is also a member of the Clickfunnels 2-Comma-Club.

During the episode we discuss:

• YouTube Ads for High Ticket Sales
• YouTube Ads for Business Coaches
• YouTube Ads vs. Facebook Ads
• How to Craft a Winning YouTube Ad
• Aleric's Entrepreneurial Journey into YouTube Ads

Aleric also very kindly volunteered his FREE GIFT for you lovely listeners:

• Ad Outreach Video - https://www.adoutreach.com/gift (so worth watching and implementing!!!)
• and his YouTube Ads Webinar: https://www.adoutreach.com/webinar

How to contact Aleric:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alericheck
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/alericheck

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Website Address: https://www.adoutreach.com

A message from Dino Tartaglia - Heading for my bus pass (as I write this (not literally, but in years 😉), I've taken my original training as an Electrical & Electronics Engineer, then Chartered Engineer and finally as a Business Development guy, and used this to advise, troubleshoot, build, shut down and otherwise help 1,000+ companies from Globals to kitchen-table operations, in 20+ countries, across 5 continents for 30+ years.

Part-mentor, part-coach, part-troubleshooter and ALL business, I've been operational in the online space for a couple of years now running Success Engineers as a JV with my good friend, Simon Hartley, World Class Sports Psych and Coach.

We help Expert Business owners clarify & simplify what they are in business to do (which they've often lost sight of), and then help them achieve exactly that.

We've developed a different way of looking at business and how it is (and should be) run and our real M.O. is taking insights from the very best in the world and helping others adopt those principles to improve their personal performance, their team's performance (where relevant) and the performance of their business.

On this episode we discuss:

• Concept: The Boat [Components of a Successful Business Vehicle]
• Concept: Character-led Business. Why mindset is not the real success factor in business...
• "Traits before States"
• Philosophy: Better Thinking Builds Better Business
• Idea: Choosing your client based on Character and Disposition, not just demographics & psychographics, etc
• Approach: Seduced by Complexity. Why Simple is Best (Tina Turner had it [almost] right)

How to contact Dino:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinotartaglia/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DinoLTartaglia
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SuccessDino
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/successengineers
Website: https://www.successengineers.co/

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Live interview with two amazing people, husband and wife partnership, Adam and Kerry Altman Anderson, founders of Whole Life Entrepreneurs.

With 21 businesses to their name, including 14 fails but one very successful acquisition, their journey brought them close to divorce at time’s.

We learn about the strategies entrepreneurs need to succeed in a Family Business.

Check out their page:

Whole Life Entrepreneurship - https://www.facebook.com/wlemission/
Website: http://wlemission.com
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/WLEMission
Instagram: https://instagram.com/wlemission/

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

David Jenyns’s entrepreneurial journey begins back in his early 20’s when he sold Australia’s most love sporting ground, the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Since then, his business experience spans from developing and branching retail stores, to found one of Australia’s most trusted digital agencies, Melbourne SEO & Video. He’s an Amazon bestseller, lover of processes and procedures and the founder of systemHUB.

Recognised as a high achieving entrepreneur, you will find many of David’s keynote presentations on YouTube including: TEDx, WordCamp and Problogger.

David is the founder of a company called systemHUB who helps business owners step back from the day-to-day operations of running their business. To do this they have developed a system to extract, organise and optimise best practise systems, processes and checklists from your business.

Yes! Through this process, your business can run without you.

Imagine, your business running like a finely oiled machine with team members following systems and processes to deliver products and services to your predefined standard. It’s easier than you think.

We’ve already helped hundreds of business owners like you - let’s see if it’s a good fit for you. https://www.systemhub.com/the-details/

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Your New Years Resolutions WILL FAIL

Why?

Well, there are three main reasons:

REASON #1

Your New Year Resolution is simply TOO BIG.

If you want to succeed at your New Years Resolution then START NOW.

You need to start planning your resolution now, breaking your big goal down into smaller achievable milestones. Otherwise, you'll start on Jan 1st and the goal you've set for yourself will simply be too big.

A resolution is for life NOT JUST for New Year.

Better to CHOOSE TO START YOUR RESOLUTION NOW...

...Than to put it off for another Month until you are "forced" into taking action.

REASON #2

You are fighting the Reptile part of your brain.

When you start in the New Year, you will immediately be triggering Fight, Flight or Freeze because you are trying to do something that you've been putting off until now.

You haven't got your brain comfortable and desensitised to the new behaviour patterns.

This is the most likely reason you will fail because those first 30 days will feel really bloody uncomfortable.

So, start training your reptile NOW.

REASON #3

You did it just because it's a New Year Resolution.

Basically your "WHY" needs to be much stronger than it's a New Year Resolution.

You must have a specific goal in mind to achieve with your new lifestyle change, as well as determined the activities you'll be doing to achieve that goal and FINALLY have a MASSIVE DESIRE to achieve the goal.

Otherwise, you'll be apathetic towards your resolution and not complete it.

Check out my websites: https://robinwaite.com and all of my free resources here: https://fearless.biz

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Karthik Vijayakumar is a Storyteller, Conversationalist and founder of Top 10 Entrepreneurship Podcast, Design Your Thinking.

Design Your Thinking attained over 250,000 downloads in the first year. His show episodes currently do over 10,000 downloads per month across audio and video.

On the Design Your Thinking Podcast, Karthik interviews creators, entrepreneurs and rebels who’ve broken the rules, are changing the game, creating WOW with whatever they do, to uncover hidden stories, how-they-did-what-they-did and lessons they learnt in the process.

During the interview, Karthik very kindly offered our listeners his manifesto - How to Follow Your Heart and Thrive in a Highly Distracted World - which you can download here:
https://designyourthinking.com/getmanifesto/ (no email required)

Please do also check out the Design Your Thinking website:
https://designyourthinking.com/

And download the podcast here:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-design-your-thinking-podcast/id1165020553

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Kate Hunter is an Executive Coach who helps high achieving Women to revive & redefine their Purpose, Mind-Set and Goals, to achieve success on their terms, through her proven Coaching programmes.

Don’t Wait Until You’ve Finished Climbing, To Realise You’re On The Wrong Ladder. Another pay increase, a fancier job title, the name on your office door. To anybody watching, your life looks pretty damn great. So why does work feel like such a chore? Success doesn’t always equal happiness. The two are not mutually exclusive.

In this episode Kate introduces the listener to the Ikigai model, Ikigai is a Japanese term for Purpose, AKA your reason for getting out of bed. It’s that sweet spot of getting paid to do what you love. Throughout your life, your ikigai will shift; it’s never too late to revive and redefine.

You can find out more about Ikigai here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ikigai-finding-sweet-spot-getting-paid-do-what-you-kate/

Kate mentioned the Chimp Paradox:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Chimp-Paradox-Management-Programme-Confidence/dp/009193558X/

We also broke down what's amiss in the coaching and consulting world, with coaches spending $1,000s on training and certifications yet neglecting the core business skills around attracting clients and getting paid what you're worth.

You can check out Kate's private FB Group "The Lounge for High Achieving Women":
https://www.facebook.com/groups/366186747331767/

Find Kate on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-hunter-%F0%9F%8C%9F-executive-coach-8662ab10/

And also via her website: https://www.kate-hunter.com/

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz

Paul Maskill - business coach, multiple business owner, entrepreneur and host of the Business Owners Freedom Formula Podcast.

Paul works with business owners who are looking to make simple culture changes within their businesses which lead to increased turnover and more freedom.

We discussed a lot, most notably the 5 Mistakes Business Owners Make when it comes to Culture:

1. Using "I", "me" and "my" instead of "We" when referring to your business and team.
2. Delegating tasks without responsibility or understanding of what's involved.
3. Not having team meetings (or checking in with yourself regularly if you're a solopreneur)
4. Delegating tasks without there being proper systems or processes in place.
5. Hiring for talent instead of "family fit" - you can have the best performer but they might alienate themselves from the team and disrupt things too much.

Discover Real-Life Business Insights

Curious about how fellow entrepreneurs are navigating the ups and downs of running a business? One of the best ways to learn is through the authentic experiences of other owners. Dive into a variety of testimonials, client case studies, and personal stories that shed light on both successes and the occasional face-palm moments.

Getting Smart with Financial Planning

Paul and I didn’t just stick to culture and team, money talk inevitably snuck in (as it does). Small business owners wear enough hats to fill a walk-in closet, so keeping an eye on the numbers isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” It’s essential if you want your business to thrive instead of stall.

So what works when it comes to financial planning for growth? Here’s how Paul breaks it down:

• Treat Cash Flow Like Oxygen
  You wouldn’t leave for Everest with half a tank, right? Paul recommends managing your cash flow weekly, know what's coming in and going out, and plan for any hills and valleys ahead. Tools like QuickBooks or Xero can help here, but whatever you use, watch those numbers like you’d watch your fantasy football scores.

• Budgets, Not Just for Big Corporations
  Creating a realistic budget isn’t about being stingy, it’s about giving your decisions a solid foundation. Factor in not just expenses, but also those unpredictable “oh look, the coffee machine exploded again” surprises. Reviewing your budget monthly (not letting it gather digital dust) puts you ahead of the herd.

• Strategic Investments vs. Panic Spending
  Growth often tempts you to throw money at the first shiny thing, Paul suggests the opposite. Every investment, whether it’s hiring, training, or new tech, should align with your long-term vision. Ask, “Will this move the needle a year from now, or is it just a quick fix?”

• Lean on Advice, But Trust Your Gut
  Whether it’s picking up tips from Dave Ramsey or studying Warren Buffett’s moves, learning from others helps. But at the end of the day, your business, your context.

Three quick financial wins Paul swears by:

1. Keep a rolling 90-day cash reserve (breathe easier during lean months)
2. Automate savings for taxes and big purchases, future-you will be grateful.
3. Block a non-negotiable slot each week to review your numbers, no excuses.

Financial planning doesn’t have to be scary or spreadsheet-obsessed. Approach it as a tool for your freedom, the same freedom that inspired you to build a business in the first place.

Financial Forecasting: Giving Your Small Business a Crystal Ball

A lot of small business owners treat financial forecasting like Brussels sprouts, something you know you should do but keep pushing to the back of the plate. But, just like those sprouts, forecasting is actually good for you (I promise, much less mushy though).

At its core, financial forecasting is about peering around corners. It lets you map out where your business is headed, sidestep potholes, and, crucially, plan with genuine confidence instead of crossed fingers.

How Do You Get Started?

• Establish Baselines: Start by digging into your recent sales, expenses, and profit margins. Patterns here are gold.
• Make Honest Projections: Use those patterns to forecast future sales, identify quiet and busy months, and map out expenses you know are coming (annual software renewals, team bonuses, those inevitable coffee machine repairs).
• Scenario Planning: Build in a few “what if” scenarios. What if you land that dream client, or lose your biggest one? What would it mean for cash flow?

Why Bother With Forecasting?

• You’ll spot cash gaps before they hit, giving you time to plan rather than panic.
• It helps you set realistic targets (rather than vibes-based goals).
• Banks and investors love seeing a founder who knows their numbers.

Remember, even giants like Starbucks and Pret weren’t built without some heavy-duty financial napkin-scribbling. You don’t need a crystal ball, just a willingness to look ahead and tweak as you learn.

And, pro tip: apps like Float, Futrli, or even good ol’ Excel will make you look way more organized than you feel.

Here’s how you can connect and grow:

• Listen and Learn: Tune in to candid interviews with business leaders willing to share what worked, what flopped, and everything in between.
• Explore Case Studies: Follow practical, real-world examples of challenges overcome, think like reading the inside scoop on how Patagonia tackles sustainability, or how Ben & Jerry’s churned out a cult following with quirky flavors and activism.
• Get Inspired by True Stories: From garage startups to global icons, personal journeys can spark new ideas and remind you that every business, big or small, faces its fair share of plot twists.

Connecting with others’ journeys isn’t just inspiring; it’s actionable. Armed with these stories, you’ll be better equipped to tackle your own business adventures.

Pricing Strategies to Maximise Profitability

After tackling culture, another area where business owners often leave money on the table is in their approach to pricing. Choosing the right pricing strategy can make all the difference in your bottom line, so let’s break down a few that genuinely move the needle:

• Value-Based Pricing
  Instead of guessing what the market might pay, value-based pricing starts with your customer. Figure out how much value your product or service brings to them (think: time saved, headaches avoided, money made), and price accordingly. Take a leaf from Apple’s book, they don’t just sell a phone; they sell an ecosystem and an experience, which is why they command higher prices.

• Premium Pricing
  This is all about perception. By positioning your offering as high-end, think of the difference between flying standard and splashing out on business class, you attract a different kind of customer. Premium pricing can boost your profit margins and your brand prestige, provided your product consistently delivers on that promise.

• Bundle Pricing
  Everyone loves a good deal. Packaging complementary products or services can entice customers to spend more than they might have on just one item. For example, fast food combos or curated software suites tend to increase the average ticket size, without a lot of extra effort on your end.

• Penetration and Skimming
  Penetration pricing means starting low to attract attention, then raising prices once you have a loyal base. Skimming is the opposite, launching high, grabbing early adopters (think new gadgets), and reducing your price later to reach the masses.

If you’re unsure where to start, test and track. Profitable pricing is rarely set-it-and-forget-it; it should evolve as your offers, audience, and positioning do.

Advanced Financial Metrics for Small Business Success

So, what numbers should you actually keep an eye on if you want your business to thrive, not just survive? Beyond the typical profit and loss statement, there are a few advanced financial metrics that can give you deeper insights and help you make smarter decisions.

Here are some worth tracking:

• Gross Profit Margin: Not just your overall profit, but how much you’re making after the direct costs of delivering your product or service. A rising margin often means you’re pricing well and managing costs.
• Operating Cash Flow: Forget paper profits for a second, look at the cash actually coming in and out. This helps you see whether you can cover your day-to-day operations without digging into reserves or jumping through flaming hoops for a loan.
• Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) and Lifetime Value (LTV): Knowing what it costs to land a new client, versus what they’re likely to spend over time, can save you from betting the farm on expensive marketing strategies.
• Accounts Receivable Turnover: How quickly do your clients actually pay? Tracking this can nudge you to tighten up your invoicing or follow-up systems, especially if cash flow feels like a leaky bucket.
• Inventory Turnover: For those with products, this tells you if your stock is working for you or collecting dust. Too slow? Time to rethink what you’re ordering or how you’re selling.
• Break-even Analysis: This simple calculation helps you pinpoint exactly how much you need to sell each month before you stop losing sleep and start making real money.

Most importantly, regularly reviewing these metrics lets you spot trends, course-correct early, and ultimately build a business that works for you, not the other way around.

The Profit Plan: Setting Your Business Up for Sustainable Success

What exactly is a Profit Plan for business owners, and why does it matter? Let’s break it down, minus the usual jargon and with a healthy dose of real-world practicality.

At its core, a Profit Plan is your business’s blueprint for making sure that, after all the dust has settled, there are actual profits left in the bank, without sacrificing your sanity or customer experience along the way. Think of it as combining elements of Michael E. Gerber’s systems thinking with a “money-first” focus.

Here's how it typically shapes up:

• Intentional Revenue Goals: You start by setting clear profit targets instead of a vague “let’s see how the year goes.”
• Reverse Engineering Expenses: Rather than blindly spending and hoping there’s something left over, you work backwards from your desired profit and only allocate funds where they matter most.
• Built-in Profit Allocations: Inspired by frameworks like Profit First (by Mike Michalowicz), the Profit Plan ensures you’re regularly siphoning off profit, treating it as a non-negotiable, not an afterthought.
• Systems for Monitoring: You create reliable checkpoints (monthly or quarterly) to track your progress, tweak your systems, and keep yourself and your team accountable.
• Freedom through Structure: Because once profit isn't accidental, you can focus on growing the business and enjoying your freedom, rather than putting out fires.

In short, a Profit Plan is about being proactive rather than reactive. It’s how you move from hope-based bookkeeping to true financial freedom, freeing up your time and energy to lead, innovate, and maybe even take that much-needed vacation.

The Four Core Principles of Putting Your Business Profit First

When it comes to building a sustainable business that actually generates freedom, not just revenue, Paul champions the idea of putting your profit first (big tip of the hat to Mike Michalowicz here). It’s a straightforward but radical shift in mindset and operations. Here’s how it breaks down in practice:

• Prioritize Profit, Not Just Revenue
  Instead of focusing on sales and hoping there’s something left at the end, set aside your desired profit before allocating money to expenses. This makes profit a non-negotiable rather than an afterthought.

• Allocate Funds Using Separate Accounts
  Use dedicated bank accounts to divvy up your income into profit, owner’s pay, taxes, and operating expenses. This creates accountability and helps resist the temptation to overspend.

• Operate Within Realistic Limits
  Regularly review what's actually available in your operating expenses account. This keeps you vigilant and inventive, forcing you to streamline costs rather than mindlessly scaling up expenses with every new sale.

• Build Consistent Habits
  Make financial reviews and allocations a routine part of your business rhythm. Whether it's a weekly or monthly practice, this habit ensures you’re always steering the ship, not just reacting to financial fires.

These principles aren’t just about bookkeeping, they’re about creating a culture where sustainability and freedom are baked into the business from day one.

What to Expect from a Profit First Coaching Program
Jumping into a Profit First coaching program is a bit like giving your business GPS navigation for its finances, except with fewer wrong turns and more celebration stops.

Here’s what you’re in for:

• Practical Systems: You’ll learn to set up bank accounts according to the Profit First method (think “profit” and “tax” accounts), making sales deposits less mysterious and surprise bills less terrifying.
• Hands-On Guidance: Coaches walk you through how to actually implement the Profit First framework, so you don’t have to read the book twelve times or guess what “real revenue” means.
• Mindset Shifts: Expect some “a-ha!” moments as you realize you really can pay yourself first (without making your accountant cry).
• Accountability: Regular check-ins, tweaks, and moral support help keep your business on that profitable track, even when pizza Fridays beckon.
• Personalized Advice: Your business is uniquely yours, so you’ll get tailored action steps and troubleshooting for your own quirks.

In short, a Profit First coaching program helps transform those “Where did all the money go?” moments into “Look at what we just achieved!” milestones, without needing a finance degree or a magic wand.

Understanding the Profit First Method

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering where all the money goes at the end of each month, the Profit First method might just be the missing piece of your financial puzzle. Developed by Mike Michalowicz, this system flips traditional accounting on its head: rather than treating profit as an afterthought, you prioritize it right from the start.

Here’s how it works in practice:

• Prioritize Profit: Instead of the familiar equation (Sales – Expenses = Profit), Profit First suggests you take your profit out immediately (Sales – Profit = Expenses). By doing so, you ensure your business pays itself first, much like saving before spending in personal finance.
• Set Up Multiple Bank Accounts: To make the system foolproof, businesses typically maintain separate accounts for profit, owner’s pay, taxes, and operating expenses. Each incoming deposit is divided by predetermined percentages, allocating funds to each account, so you always know exactly what’s available, and for what purpose.
• Discipline and Clarity: This method encourages regular, scheduled allocations (often twice monthly), fostering healthier cash flow management and greater financial discipline.
• The Four Core Principles: The foundational ideas behind Profit First include small plate theory (restricting available cash), routine distributions, removing temptation (by keeping profit out of sight), and enforcing a rhythm so your business finances run on autopilot.

It might sound deceptively simple, but thousands of business owners have found that putting profit at the forefront leads to better decisions, less financial stress, and, yes, even actual profit. If you’d like actionable guidance, the “Profit First” book and community resources are worth exploring.

Paul is an avid fan and implementer of the eMyth by Michael E. Gerber:
https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Revisited-Small-Businesses-About/dp/0887307280

And Paul's top tip for budding entrepreneurs is to "Avoid following the status quo, and do things regardless of what other people are telling you to do; the positives normally vastly outweigh the negatives".

Check out Business Owners Freedom Formula Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/business-owners-freedom-formula-actionable-advice-for/id1225076443

And finally if you want to get a hold of Paul here's his website: https://paulmaskill.com/mastermind

And email address: paul@paulmaskill.com

A Bit about Fearless Business:

Join our amazing community of Coaches, Consultants and Freelancers on Facebook:
>> https://facebook.com/groups/ChargeMore

And check out the Fearless Business website:
>> https://fearless.biz