The Business Growth Show
Adam Prosser, Jon Redding
The Business Growth Show, hosted by Adam Prosser and Jon Redding, is a UK-based podcast that dives deep into the journeys of entrepreneurs, SME owners, and business experts. Each episode of The Business Growth Show explores how these individuals got started, the challenges they faced, and the key strategies they used to scale and succeed. From grassroots beginnings to established enterprises, the show offers real, actionable insights for anyone interested in business development, scaling techniques, and sustainable growth. Whether you're launching your first venture or looking to take your company to the next level, The Business Growth Show is packed...
Episodes
Software That Revolutionises Buisness
In this episode, Adam and Jon sit down with Stuart Lee from Atlas Mapping to explore how location intelligence, spatial data and visual mapping software can help businesses make smarter decisions about growth, marketing, sales and territory planning.Atlas Mapping provides a software platform called Vision, which allows businesses to visualise their data on maps. By bringing together customer locations, demographics, competitor activity, market penetration and financial values, the platform helps companies understand where they are performing well, where opportunities exist and where smarter decisions can be made.Stuart shares how Atlas Mapping was founded 15 years ago alongside co founder John Bellamy, after they identified a need for more sophisticated territory analysis within the franchising sector. Having previously worked at a data agency, the founders saw an opportunity to build their own mapping technology and launched the business through a sweat equity arrangement, despite some early scepticism from family members.The Vision platform also helps businesses identify target customers, calculate potential revenue, analyse competitor locations and assess the strength of different territories. This is particularly valuable for franchises, gyms, service businesses, retailers and companies planning new sites or local marketing campaigns.This is a valuable episode for anyone interested in data, mapping software, franchise planning, marketing strategy, customer analysis, territory mapping, business growth, location intelligence or using smarter information to make better commercial decisions. About the hosts Adam is the founder of Active Internet Marketing, a UK digital marketing agency helping businesses improve their online visibility through SEO, paid advertising, content marketing and website development. Visit Active Internet Marketing: https://activeinternetmarketing.co.uk/ Jon is from Octopus Computers, an established technology business providing IT support, cybersecurity, cloud services and business technology solutions. Visit Octopus Computers: https://octopus-computers.com/
Financial Planning Past 2026 - Sean Connolly
In this episode, Adam and Jon sit down with Sean Connolly, founder of Connolly Financial Planning in Oakham, to explore the story behind a local financial planning firm built around trust, personal service and long term client relationships. Sean shares how his career began in a completely different world. After spending around 10 years working as an electrician, he moved into financial services and eventually launched his own independent practice in January 2025. Today, Connolly Financial Planning supports clients across Rutland with investment planning, retirement planning, mortgages, wealth management and inheritance tax planning. The conversation explores why Sean has chosen to build the business around a strong local presence. Rather than focusing on larger markets such as London, the firm is committed to serving the local area through face to face advice, a prominent office location and community led events. From casino nights to seasonal gatherings, Sean explains how informal events can build goodwill and trust in a more natural way than traditional financial seminars.A key part of the conversation focuses on the structure behind the business. Sean has built a team with defined roles, including business development, administration, mortgage processing and in house paraplanning. This allows him to focus more time on client facing meetings while ensuring clients receive consistent support throughout their financial journey
Why Companies Are HEMORRHAGING Cash!
In this episode, Adam and Jon sit down with Amy and James to explore how operational efficiency, better processes and human centred change can help businesses reduce costs, improve productivity and prepare for sustainable growth.Amy and James are business efficiency specialists who support organisations with process improvement, productivity and operating model design. Their work is focused on helping businesses simplify the way they operate, remove unnecessary complexity and build stronger systems that make growth easier to manage.A major theme of the episode is change management. Resistance to change often comes from change fatigue, fear of the unknown or a lack of belief that improvement will actually happen. Amy and James explain why quick wins are so important, helping teams see progress early and proving that better ways of working can be introduced without huge disruption.Their approach is bespoke and flexible. Some clients need short term cost saving support, while others require a complete review of their operating model. In every case, the aim is not to make businesses dependent on outside consultants, but to empower internal teams with the tools, confidence and understanding to sustain improvements long after the project ends.The episode also looks at why businesses often chase new technology before fixing the basics. AI and automation can be incredibly useful, but only when workflows are clear, consistent and properly understood. Amy and James discuss how companies can waste money by introducing new systems without adapting their operating model, preparing their people or understanding different levels of technological confidence across a multi generational workforce.Artificial intelligence is explored as a valuable support tool, particularly for repetitive, high volume tasks in areas such as contact centres. However, the real opportunity comes when AI allows people to spend more time solving root problems, improving the customer experience and applying creative thinking where human judgement still matters most.The conversation also covers communication and professional development. Amy and James explain why complex concepts need to be translated into relatable, practical language. Training that is too theoretical, too fast or too full of jargon often fails because people cannot connect it to the realities of their work. For change to last, it needs context, clarity and a genuine understanding of people.Amy and James also share the thinking behind their business model. Rather than building a large internal team, they have chosen to grow through a collaborative partnership network. This allows them to take on larger and more varied projects while staying flexible and focused on quality.Their professional backgrounds in retail, productivity projects, Lean and Six Sigma have shaped the way they work today. With experience across retail management, supply chain, change roles and supplier relationships, they understand how important it is to bridge communication gaps, reduce friction and make processes work better for the people who use them.About the hostsAdam is the founder of Active Internet Marketing, a UK digital marketing agency helping businesses improve their online visibility through SEO, paid advertising, content marketing and website development.Visit Active Internet Marketing:https://activeinternetmarketing.co.uk/Jon is from Octopus Computers, an established technology business providing IT support, cybersecurity, cloud services and business technology solutions.Visit Octopus Computers:https://octopus-computers.com/
Why You Can No Longer Operate In Silos with Chris and Kaz
In this episode, Adam and Jon sit down with Chris Deverson and Kaz to explore how integrated HR, health and safety, and recruitment support can help businesses grow with stronger structure, better culture and clearer compliance.Chris and Kaz discuss why many small and medium sized businesses struggle to manage people, safety and recruitment properly when these responsibilities sit alongside the day to day pressures of running the company. Rather than treating HR, health and safety, and recruitment as separate services, their approach brings everything together through one joined up model.The conversation explores why this matters for growing businesses. Government legislation, employee rights, workplace policies and safety requirements can quickly become difficult to manage, especially when business owners are trying to handle everything themselves. Chris and Kaz explain how their service gives clients a single point of contact, helping them put practical processes in place that are actually used, rather than policies that simply sit in a folder.A major theme of the episode is proactive support. Instead of stepping in only when something has gone wrong, their model is designed to help businesses identify risks early, improve training, recruit better people, strengthen retention and build internal systems that can eventually be managed by the client themselves.The discussion also looks at why some business owners see HR, recruitment and health and safety as costs rather than investments. Chris and Kaz explain how the right support can improve productivity, reduce disruption, protect the business and create a healthier working culture over time.Recruitment is another key part of the conversation. They discuss the importance of asking better interview questions, looking beyond simple skills matching and assessing whether a candidate has researched the company properly. Attitude, cultural fit and willingness to learn can often be more valuable than finding someone who already has every technical skill on paper.The episode also explores employee development. Some businesses hesitate to invest in training because of cost or fear that staff may leave. Chris and Kaz explain why professional development, mentoring and cross training can actually improve commitment, morale and continuity. When businesses rely too heavily on one person holding all the knowledge, they create risk. Strong systems and shared understanding help protect the business when people are absent or roles change.Visit Active Internet Marketing:https://activeinternetmarketing.co.uk/Jon is from Octopus Computers, an established technology business providing IT support, cybersecurity, cloud services and business technology solutions.Visit Octopus Computers:https://octopus-computers.com/
How To Get You Business To That Next Level with Thea Brook
In this episode of the Business Growth Show, Adam and Jon speak with Thea Brook, founder of Calm, about business scaling, founder capacity and building a company that supports your life rather than consuming it.Thea brings together nearly two decades of entrepreneurial experience with a background in finance, fintech and strategic leadership. She has worked as a CFO for high growth startups, opened a dance school at the age of 20 and later built several restaurant businesses.Today, through Calm, Thea supports businesses growing from approximately £200,000 towards £1 million and beyond. Her work gives founders access to strategic expertise across finance, marketing, people, operations and business planning before they are ready to employ a complete senior leadership team.During the conversation, Thea explains why personal capacity is often one of the biggest barriers to growth. Many founders plan considerably more work than they can realistically complete, creating a cycle of pressure, exhaustion and poor decision making.Thea shares her own experience of planning around 55 hours of work each week despite having approximately 35 hours of genuine capacity. This imbalance contributed to burnout and eventually forced her to reconsider how she approached business, work and personal wellbeing.The episode also explores Thea’s experience of suffering a brain haemorrhage and how it led her to develop a life first approach to entrepreneurship. Rather than measuring success solely through growth and turnover, she now builds clear boundaries around her time, health, energy and personal priorities.Adam, Jon and Thea also examine founder mindset, including why business owners often focus on what remains unfinished rather than appreciating the progress they have already made. The concept of the gap and the gain provides a practical way to recognise achievements while continuing to move forward.This episode is ideal for founders, entrepreneurs and business leaders who want to scale sustainably, improve their decision making and build a stronger company without sacrificing their health or personal life.Visit Thea Brook:https://theabrook.com/https://activeinternetmarketing.co.uk/https://octopus-computers.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction00:25 Founder capacity, burnout and decision making01:30 Thea’s background in finance and entrepreneurship03:55 Building Calm and supporting growing businesses04:49 Why scaling businesses need senior expertise05:20 Assessing a business and creating a structured growth plan07:07 Creating a 90 day roadmap and review process13:40 Lessons from 18 years of building businesses14:27 Managing multiple products and experiencing burnout15:17 Planned workload compared with genuine capacity21:30 Music, dance and pattern recognition23:03 Finance, systems and business technology25:03 Using artificial intelligence to improve efficiency28:17 Why founders struggle to appreciate their progress28:33 The gap and the gain30:51 Burnout, a brain haemorrhage and resetting priorities36:11 Accountability and difficult business decisions36:45 Re engineering a business for sustainable growth40:47 Thea’s free business scaling workshop
Why I Ignored the Experts - Oliver Hemsley
In this episode of the Business Growth Show, Adam and Jon speak with Oliver Hemsley, founder of Stone Soup Solutions, experienced entrepreneur and Rutland county councillor.Oliver has lived in Rutland for most of his life and has spent nearly 45 years building businesses, supporting local organisations and developing strong relationships within the community.His business journey includes landscape gardening, property management, sustainable construction and the development of environmentally conscious homes. Across each venture, Oliver has focused on honesty, trust and delivering genuine value to clients.The conversation explores Oliver’s decision to become involved in local government. Inspired by his parents and their commitment to the community, he wanted to contribute to the future of Rutland and help protect the character, identity and interests of the county.Oliver believes founders should build businesses that can operate without their constant involvement. This requires reliable systems, documented knowledge, capable people and a clear understanding of the outcome the owner is ultimately working towards.Knowledge retention is another important theme.As businesses grow and staff turnover increases, valuable experience can leave the company when an employee moves on. Oliver discusses why organisations need practical ways to capture knowledge and make it accessible to the wider team.The conversation also examines misinformation and the increasing difficulty of identifying trustworthy advice.Oliver believes people often make decisions too quickly without taking the time to verify claims. This can affect purchasing decisions, business relationships and the ability to choose the right advisers.At the centre of Oliver’s work is a genuine enjoyment of helping people progress.Whether he is supporting a startup, advising an established business or contributing to the future of Rutland, his motivation comes from seeing individuals and organisations overcome obstacles and achieve sustainable growth.This episode is ideal for entrepreneurs, startup founders, business owners and community leaders interested in business mentoring, local enterprise, succession planning, knowledge retention and building a company that can thrive beyond its founder.HostsAdam is the founder of Active Internet Marketing, a UK digital marketing agency helping businesses improve their online visibility through SEO, AI search optimisation, paid advertising, content marketing and website development.https://activeinternetmarketing.co.uk/Jon is from Octopus Computers, an established technology business providing IT support, cybersecurity, cloud services and business technology solutions.https://octopus-computers.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction01:24 Oliver Hemsley’s background and life in Rutland01:58 Nearly 45 years of running businesses02:50 Becoming a Rutland county councillor03:43 Devolution and the future of Rutland08:13 The experience behind Stone Soup Solutions08:43 Identifying the missing ingredients in a business09:44 The story that inspired the Stone Soup name12:54 Supporting startups and growing businesses17:20 Questioning certifications and business processes18:51 The essential qualities of a successful entrepreneur22:00 Exit strategies and reducing founder dependency25:40 Misinformation, trust and verifying advice26:08 Employee turnover and the loss of business knowledge29:44 Helping people and businesses grow
Nationally Supporting Your Utility Connections - Laura Wilson
In this episode, we sit down with Laura Wilson, founder of Connections Legal Management, to explore the story behind a fast growing UK business supporting utility connections, legal agreements and development projects across the country. Laura shares how she entered the industry, learned the trade through hands on experience, and eventually took the leap into building her own business with the support and encouragement of one of her clients. What began as a specialist service has grown quickly through recommendations, strong relationships and word of mouth, with Connections Legal Management now working nationwide with developers and independent connection providers. This conversation gives an honest look at the realities of business growth. Laura talks openly about time management, people management, controlled expansion and the importance of maintaining the same level of client communication as the business gets bigger. Rather than chasing growth for the sake of numbers, Laura explains why the business has a clear three year vision built around quality, sustainability, staff development and organic progress.
From A Salary In An Office To A Thriving Business - Kate Willett
In this episode, Adam and Jon sit down with Kate, founder of Chequered Fox, to explore the story behind a specialist fit out business supporting nurseries, schools and offices. Kate shares how her competitive nature has shaped her approach to both personal and professional growth. Rather than surrounding herself with people who think and work in exactly the same way, she has learned to build relationships with people who bring different strengths, perspectives and qualities to the table. Chequered Fox began with Kate drawing on her experience in childcare and her understanding of the early years curriculum, she recognised an opportunity to provide nurseries with carefully selected furniture, equipment and learning resources that genuinely support children, practitioners and the spaces they use every day. Kate explains how her childcare background gives Chequered Fox an important advantage. She understands that nursery furniture and educational products must do more than simply look attractive. They need to be practical, safe, durable and suitable for the way early years environments operate. Sustainability and longevity are also central to the business. Chequered Fox focuses on supplying high quality products that are designed to last, helping clients create better environments while reducing the need for constant replacement.
BOOM7 - Marketing that hits different.
In this episode, we sit down with Steven to explore the story behind Boom 7, MK Eats, the Milton Keynes Food Awards and the wider world of local marketing, events and entrepreneurship. Steven shares how his success has been shaped by decades of relationships, reputation and community connection in Milton Keynes. Having lived in the area for 45 years, he has built a powerful local network and uses that understanding to bring energy, attention and strategy to the businesses he works with.The conversation explores how Boom 7 began after Steven returned from a holiday and made the decision to start a business, even before he knew exactly what that business would become. After settling on marketing, he threw himself into learning, reading more than 100 self development books on networking, influence and business growth. That commitment helped him build the confidence, mindset and practical approach that now sits behind his work.
The Goal Setting Process That Changes Your Life - A Masterclass with Lucia
In this episode, we sit down with Lucia to explore the often overlooked gap between career success and genuine happiness. Many people spend years chasing development, promotions, job titles and the next step on the corporate ladder, only to realise that progression does not always equal fulfilment. Lucia specialises in career happiness coaching, helping people understand what they truly want, why they may feel misaligned and how to build a working life that feels more meaningful, balanced and personally rewarding. Lucia shares her experience working with individuals, universities, entertainment companies and businesses, supporting people who may appear successful on the outside but feel disconnected from what actually makes them happy. She explains how societal pressure, comparison and a lack of self awareness can lead people to pursue goals that are not truly their own. A major theme of the conversation is presence. Lucia discusses the importance of mindfulness, being in the right moment and using practical tools to support wellbeing. From improving sleep routines and setting realistic personal goals, to sharing goals for accountability, this episode explores how small changes can have a powerful impact on happiness and emotional balance.
Sometimes It's Just About Being Happy - Leslie Hughes
In this episode, we sit down with Leslie Hughes to explore the deeply personal story behind Renegade, a mindset and personal development programme created to help people overcome adversity, unlock potential and build their own version of success. Leslie speaks openly about her own journey, including a fractured family background, abuse and the difficult decisions she faced as a young mother. At one point, she considered adoption for her son because of the circumstances around the other parent, but ultimately chose to raise him herself. That decision became a defining moment in her life, giving her the determination to break the cycle she had experienced and create a better future for both herself and her child. Now, with her son aged 21 and their relationship stronger than ever, Leslie reflects on the choices, resilience and mindset that helped shape their lives. Her story is not only about survival, but about growth, responsibility and the power of deciding that your past does not have to define your future.
How Aviation PR Helps Brands Reach Airlines and Industry Decision Makers - Maryann Simson
In this episode, Adam and Jon sit down with Maryann, founder of Jetway Communications, to explore the specialist world of aviation public relations, airline technology and international business communications.Jetway Communications is a boutique aviation PR firm that helps companies communicate with airline executives, industry decision makers and the wider aviation market. Rather than trying to serve every sector, Maryann and her team concentrate specifically on aviation, allowing them to understand the terminology, publications, personalities and commercial pressures that shape the industry.Maryann founded Jetway Communications around 10 years ago, although her career in aviation began in 2008 when she joined a magazine focused on airline catering as an advertising salesperson. That early role introduced her to the aviation community and gave her an understanding of how companies reach airline buyers through media, events, editorial coverage and industry relationships.
From Street Food Store to Multi-Award Winning Restaurant - Saran Raj
In this episode, we sit down with Saran from Katana Restaurant in Peterborough to explore the story behind one of the city’s most distinctive dining destinations. With a family history in food spanning more than 50 years, Saran brings together deep hospitality experience, international training and a genuine passion for creating memorable restaurant experiences. From working in restaurants and hotels across France, Italy, the United States, New Delhi, New York and Mayfair, to helping shape Katana’s Indian and Japanese dining concept in Peterborough, this conversation gives a fascinating look into what it really takes to build a restaurant with ambition, standards and soul. Katana is not just another restaurant. It is a 200 cover venue offering Indian cuisine, Japanese teppanyaki, sushi, cocktails, Sunday roasts, private dining, group menus, live music, monthly nightclub events and cultural food festivals. Saran talks openly about the challenge of bringing a higher quality restaurant experience to a city that relies heavily on local support rather than tourism, and why creating something affordable, memorable and consistent matters so much.
How a Videographer Built a Video Content Agency Before the New Digital Marketing Era - Chris Wardle
In this episode of The Business Growth Show, we sit down with Chris Wardle: a Videographer and the founder Eldraw Creative Media, to discuss his journey from a wannabe Graphic Designer to a pioneer of Digital Marketing with the rise of Video based content. Chris shares how his creative journey started long before running a business. As a kid, he spent hours photoshopping body kits onto cars, developing an early passion for visual storytelling and design. That interest in creative media eventually led him into videography at a time when most businesses still relied heavily on traditional marketing and static content.Spotting the shift in the digital landscape, Chris founded a video content agency focused on B2B marketing, helping companies communicate complex products, services and brand stories through high-quality video. In a world where businesses are competing for attention online, video has become one of the most powerful tools for building trust, explaining value and driving engagement. In this conversation we explore: • How Chris transitioned from creative hobbyist to professional videographer • Why video became essential for modern digital marketing • The realities and challenges of growing a video content agency • The rise of AI-generated video and whether human-made content will remain dominant • Why storytelling, creativity and authenticity still matter in B2B marketing • The shared passion for cars that influenced Chris’s early creative work Chris also shares practical insights from working directly with businesses, explaining why companies investing in video marketing today need more than just a camera. They need strategy, clarity of message and content designed to connect with real audiences. Guest: Chris Wardle, a Videographer and the founder Eldraw Creative Media Company: Eldraw Creative Media If you're interested in Videography, SEO, digital marketing, innovation in creative content or the real stories behind building businesses, this conversation offers practical insight and an honest look at the entrepreneurial journey. Subscribe for more conversations with local Rutland business owners sharing how their ideas were built and how they continue to grow. #TheBusinessGrowthShow #Chris Wardle #Entrepreneurship #SEO #DigitalMarketing #Videography #BusinesstoBusinessAgency #Rutland #BusinessGrowth
From Disrupting Classrooms to Industries, Innovating and Creative Fundraising - Dean Lynn
In this episode of The Business Growth Show, we sit down with Dean Lynn, Entrepreneur, multi-venture operator and co-founder of PlayFundWin, to discuss his unconventional journey through technology, digital marketing, music and sport. Growing up as a disruptive student who didn’t fit the traditional path, Dean found his direction through the early internet and online gaming. What started as curiosity quickly turned into building and developing online games, where he first discovered the power of search rankings and digital visibility.That curiosity led him into the world of SEO, where he became highly skilled in aggressive link-building strategies designed to dominate Google rankings. After working as a contractor helping fast-moving businesses achieve rapid search growth, Dean later used that same expertise to help companies recover from damaging Black Hat SEO practices, removing penalties and rebuilding ethical, long-term search strategies.But his story doesn’t stop with digital marketing. Dean has also explored creative and community-driven ventures including music production, sports fundraising and innovation in fan engagement. His work has even opened doors to conversations with major football organisations including Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid, where discussions around the future of fan engagement and digital experiences are shaping the next era of sport. In this episode we discuss: • How early online gaming sparked a career in technology • The hidden world of Black Hat SEO and how businesses get penalised • How companies recover from Google penalties and rebuild search rankings • Lessons learned from working across digital marketing, music and sport • Why innovation and creativity are shaping the future of audience engagementGuest: Dean Lynn, Entrepreneur and Co-Founder of PlayFundWinCompany: PlayFundWin If you're interested in entrepreneurship, SEO, digital marketing, innovation in sport or the real stories behind building businesses, this conversation offers practical insight and an honest look at the entrepreneurial journey. Subscribe for more conversations with local Rutland business owners sharing how their ideas were built and how they continue to grow. #TheBusinessGrowthShow #DeanLynn # Entrepreneurship #SEO #DigitalMarketing #BlackhatSEO #SportsInnovation #Rutland #BusinessGrowth
How To Build a Thriving Gym: Personal Coaching and more - Emily Baxter
In this episode of The Business Growth Show, we sit down with Emily Baxter, Personal Trainer and founder of Method Gym in Oakham, Rutland, to talk about building a modern fitness space rooted in education, confidence and long-term results. After five years of hands-on 1-to-1 Personal Training experience, Emily returned to Rutland with a clear vision. She wanted to create more than just another gym. Method Gym is a small group coaching facility designed for people who feel unsure about what their body truly needs. It combines personalised coaching, structured strength training, reformer Pilates, tailored nutrition support and dedicated recovery facilities including sauna and ice bath therapy. Emily shares how her background in one-to-one coaching shaped her holistic approach to health and fitness. We explore how Method Gym supports mobility, strength, body confidence and sustainable progress through expert coaching and clear programming. She also opens up about launching a local business in Oakham, the challenges of growing within Rutland, and how she built a strong community around trust and results. This episode is perfect for anyone searching for: • Personal training in Rutland • Strength training and reformer Pilates in Oakham • Personalised nutrition plans • Sauna and ice bath recovery facilities • Small group coaching with expert support • Local business growth stories in Rutland If you're interested in health and fitness coaching, starting your own gym, or discovering inspiring local businesses in Rutland, this conversation offers real insight from someone who has turned experience into a thriving community-driven brand. Guest: Emily Baxter (Personal Trainer and Gym Owner) Company: Method Gym (Rutland) Subscribe for more conversations with local Rutland business owners sharing how their ideas were built and how they continue to grow. #TheBusinessGrowthShow #MethodGym #PersonalTraining #HealthandFitness #Pilates #StrengthTraining #Sauna #IceBath #Oakham #Rutland #BusinessGrowth
How to Sell Homes in a Tough Market with Michael Parry, Frank Modern
Adam (Active Internet Marketing) and Jon (Octopus Computers) chat with Michael Parry, co-founder of Frank Modern, about building a modern estate agency in the Peterborough and Rutland market. Michael breaks down what’s really happening right now, why getting the setup, pricing and marketing right from day one is everything, and how listening properly has led to a big rise in off-market sales. He also shares what he’d do differently if he started again, how networking and visibility helped them grow fast, and why “old school” lead gen like direct mail is working again. We also get into the story behind the Frank Modern name, what it’s like running the business with his wife Morgan, and the next chapter. launching a new prestige-focused sister brand, Parry & Grace, for Rutland’s unique and exceptional homes.Main takeaways from our chat with Michael:- In a competitive market, visibility and strong marketing from day one matters.- Get the pricing right early and you give yourself the best chance of success.- Off-market deals come from understanding buyers properly and matching them well.- Process and communication after the sale can be the real differentiator.- You can’t be everything to everyone, sometimes you need to split the brand.Subscribe, like, and comment. We’d love to hear what part of Michael’s story or approach stood out most!#BusinessGrowthShow #Entrepreneurship #Property #EstateAgency #Marketing #Sales #Peterborough #Rutland #Stamford #SmallBusiness #Leadership
The Business Journey That Changed Everything - Toby Thomas & Love Stamford
Adam (Active Internet Marketing) and Jon (Octopus Computers) chat with Toby Thomas, founder of Love Stamford. After moving from London to Stamford just before the pandemic, Toby went from online business training to a hyper-local project designed to connect residents, visitors, and businesses. He shares lessons from past ventures, including speed dating, domain hoarding, and a short-lived spinning tops empire, and how failure shaped his approach. We cover community pride, local growth challenges, and how Love Stamford aims to be an inclusive, collaborative hub. Plus: why cutting costs can matter more than sales, and why AI is a “sports hall-sized brain” for entrepreneurs.Main takeaways from our chat with Toby:Failure teaches as much as success: know when to cut losses.WordPress was a game-changer for making business training accessible.COVID showed Zoom’s potential, but also the loneliness of remote-only work.Love Stamford is built on inclusivity, collaboration, and no paywall gatekeeping.AI is like a free super-team: learn to use it as a business partner.Toby shares how he built Love Stamford through entrepreneurship, resilience, and community. Discover the failure lessons that shaped his journey and the power of building with purpose.Subscribe, like, and comment - we’d love to hear what part of Toby’s story inspired you most!#Entrepreneurship #FailureLessons #CommunityBuilding #BusinessGrowth #LoveStamford #Leadership #TheBlondeBeat #BusinessGrowthShow
One Degree's Andy Nisevic on DISC, Leadership & Business Growth
Adam (Active Internet Marketing) and John (Octopus Computers) sit down with Andy Nisevic, founder of One Degree and leadership coach. Andy shares his journey from property investment into people development, and why he believes that small, intentional shifts can create extraordinary results in business and leadership. We dig into the power of DISC reports for building self-awareness, how COVID reshaped the way leaders need to show up, and why culture and accountability drive performance more than strategy alone. If you’re leading a team or scaling a business, this conversation is a playbook for unlocking potential without losing sight of people.Key takeaways from our talk with Andy:Leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about creating space for others to succeed.Most companies underinvest in people, even though culture drives results.COVID accelerated empathetic and adaptable leadership models.Small, consistent “one degree” shifts compound into major growth.Coaching provides accountability and perspective leaders can’t always find themselves.Self-awareness, powered by tools like DISC reports, is the foundation for lasting development.Discover how Andy helps leaders transform their teams and businesses through culture, coaching, and the power of small shifts.If you’re interested in leadership growth, DISC reports, or strategies for building stronger teams, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.Subscribe, like, and comment - we’d love to know which part of Andy’s journey inspired you most!#Leadership #BusinessGrowth #DISCReports #OneDegree #Coaching #Culture #TheBlondeBeat #BusinessGrowthShow
How to Sell Your Business the Smart Way with Simon Morris
Adam (Active Internet Marketing) and Jon (Octopus Computers) sit down with Simon Morris, entrepreneur, M&A operator, and coach. Simon shares his journey across sales, mail order, coffee, and buy and build, and why simple, people first moves often beat shiny tactics. We dig into how to make a business “buyable,” the Virtual Territory Management model that helped major brands cover more accounts, and the small customer journey tweaks that lift sales in days. We also unpack the CREAM framework for planning by reverse engineering, why hiring for attitude wins, and how first party data can turn into real revenue. Key takeaways from our talk with Simon: - Buy and build works when management can run the show without the owner. - Exit value rises with clear numbers, clean data, and a strong leadership bench. - Hire for attitude, train for skill, protect culture, communicate clearly. - Selling more to existing customers is the fastest path to growth. - CREAM framework, get clear, reverse engineer, act, monitor. - Virtual Territory Management covers second tier accounts at lower cost. - NLP tools help leaders improve communication and decision making. On a quick side note, Simon is our guest speaker at this month's Lunch and Learn networking event in Stamford, on 20th November. Tickets can be purchased at: https://bit.ly/4hOUEnU If you care about exits, acquisitions, team culture, or practical sales plays you can use this week, this episode is a toolkit you will come back to. Subscribe, like, and comment - tell us which tactic you will try first!#BusinessGrowth #MergersAndAcquisitions #BuyAndBuild #Sales #CustomerJourney #DataStrategy #NLP #Leadership #Culture #LunchAndLearn #BusinessGrowthShow
Pete's Leadership Tips for 2025: What Actually Moves the Needle
Adam (Active Internet Marketing) and Jon (Octopus Computers) sit down with leadership coach and motivational speaker Pete Rushmore from Flagship Partners. Pete shares how he helps business owners and senior leaders unlock performance through clarity, confidence, and accountability. He explains why great leadership comes down to direction, skills, and energy - and how understanding your people through motivation mapping can transform culture and results. Pete also talks about burnout, delegation, and how his own journey from corporate life to running a successful training and consultancy business shaped his leadership philosophy. He gives a sneak peek into Director’s Edge 2026, a one-day event designed to help directors lead with purpose, confidence, and energy.Director's Edge event details:📅 21st November 2025📍 Crown Lodge, Downham Road, Outwell, Wisbech PE14 8SE🕤 9:30 – 16:35🔗 Book your place: https://www.inslatt.co.uk/booking-form/Key points from the episode:- Why leadership success depends on direction, skills, and energy.- How motivation mapping helps teams stay engaged and fulfilled.- Lessons from scaling a family business with structure and communication.- The HERO framework for developing confident, high-performing leaders.- Why burnout is often a symptom of unclear purpose, not workload.If you’re a business owner or director looking to strengthen your leadership, energise your team, and lead with greater purpose, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world advice.Make sure to subscribe for more conversations on leadership, culture, and business growth. Hit like if you found Pete’s story inspiring, and drop a comment to share your biggest leadership takeaway.#Leadership #BusinessGrowth #MotivationMapping #TeamEngagement #Entrepreneurship #DirectorDevelopment #BusinessPodcast #TheBlondeBeat #BusinessGrowthShow
Family Law Growth Story: James Belderbos on Mediation, Community & Leadership
Adam (Active Internet Marketing) and John (Octopus Computers) welcome James Belderbos, founder of Belderbos Solicitors. James shares how he launched his firm mid-lockdown in 2020 after a career spanning criminal advocacy, litigation, and family law. We dive into challenges of location, why community presence trumps footfall, and how mediation and collaborative law keep families intact through separation. James discusses recruiting the right personalities, adapting to video hearings post-COVID, the impact of AI, and why bravery matters when starting a business. He also highlights family law reform, modern family dynamics, and how niche practices grow on reputation and empathy.Key points from the episode: No “average case” in family law - every family’s situation is unique.Mediation and collaborative law keep families intact through separation.AI helps with documents but can’t replace active listening in mediation.Reputation and bravery are key growth drivers for niche firms.Reform is overdue for cohabitation law, the system lags modern family life.If you’re looking for insights on family law, how mediation shapes modern legal practices, or strategies to build a community-driven and purpose-led business, this episode has plenty of inspiration and practical advice.Make sure to subscribe for more stories on law firm success and business growth, hit like if you enjoyed the conversation, and drop a comment to share which part of James’s journey inspired you most.#FamilyLaw #Mediation #LawFirmGrowth #LawFirmSuccess #PurposeDrivenBusiness #CommunityBuilding #Entrepreneurship #TheBlondeBeat #BusinessGrowthShow
The Power of Employee Ownership: Landmark IFA’s Growth Journey
Adam (Active Internet Marketing) and John (Octopus Computers) sit down with Kevin, founder of Landmark IFA and chair of Landmark Financial Group. He shares why he left large institutions, opened the doors with staff but no clients, and scaled to 37 advisers and 65 staff through smart hiring, acquisitions, and an employee ownership trust. We dig into culture (“ego-less,” team first, DYP (deliver your promise) and how Landmark handles regulation, training, and AI as a force-multiplier, not a headcount reducer. If you’re growing a professional services firm, this is a blueprint for sustainable scale without losing your soul.Key takeaways from our talk with Kevin:Employee ownership locks in independence and adviser confidence.Growth lever: acquire retiring books and use them to recruit rising advisers.AI is a tool to lift capacity, not replace people.Reputation is the moat. You only keep it by doing what you said you’d do.Discover the story behind Landmark IFA’s impressive growth and how an employee-owned business model helped scale the firm to 65 staff. In this episode, Kevin shares practical insights on building a thriving financial services business with a purpose-driven culture.If you’re interested in IFA growth, employee-owned businesses, or strategies for scaling with strong leadership and values, this conversation is full of inspiration and takeaways.Subscribe, like, and comment - we’d love to know which part of Kevin's journey inspired you most!#EmployeeOwnership #IFAGrowth #BusinessGrowth #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CompanyCulture #FinancialServices #TheBlondeBeat #BusinessGrowthShow
Most Businesses Don’t Know Their Numbers, Here’s How to Fix It with Blue Dragonfly's Angela & Rupert
Most business owners think they know how their business is doing… until someone asks for the numbers. In this episode of The Business Growth Show, we sit down with Angela & Rupert Turton from Blue Dragonfly Group to talk about the most common growth blocker they see in SMEs: not having a clear grip on your numbers. We unpack why relying on your accountant for outdated reports holds you back, how to build simple systems that keep finances clean and useful, and what it really takes to execute change inside a growing company. You’ll also hear practical advice on: • The “critical numbers” every business should track (and why a bank balance is not enough) • How to sort messy systems and make software actually talk to each other (CRM + accounting) • Why marketing is an investment, not just a cost • When a business hits the tipping point where structure, process and delegation become essential • How to chair better meetings with agendas, clear purpose and real decisions • Why communication is the foundation for growth • Working successfully with a business partner (even if they’re also your spouse) If you’re scaling past the early stage and want better cashflow control, clearer reporting, and a plan you can actually deliver, this one is for you. Guests: Angela Turton (Accountancy & finance clarity) + Rupert Turton (Project-led delivery & business change) Company: Blue Dragonfly Group (UK) Subscribe, Like, and Comment. We’d love to hear what part of Angela and Rupert's story or approach stood out most! #BusinessGrowthShow #Entrepreneurship #Accountingtips #Finance #Marketing #Sales #Peterborough #Rutland #Stamford #SmallBusiness #Leadership
Episode 8: Turning Passion into Business - Jo's Café Growth Story
Welcome to The Business Growth Show with Jo from The Blonde Beet, Stamford’s first and only plant-based café, bistro, and community space.Join Adam and Jon as they explore Jo’s fascinating pivot from sustainability work and student behaviour change to launching a thriving, welcoming café right in the heart of Rutland. Jo walks us through her journey, from cozy supper clubs and lockdown takeaways to acquiring a charming, slightly hidden premises and transforming it into a vibrant, inclusive space.Discover how Jo built a café that caters to everyone:Thoughtful, seasonal, zero-waste menus that appeal beyond the vegan niche.The creative use of textural delights like toasted seeds and nuts to elevate dishes.Community-driven programming, from art displays and book clubs to workshops and supper clubs.The power of collaboration and intentional choices, including local refill partnerships and sustainable sourcing.The ongoing challenge and joy of staying true to mission while managing growth.Whether you're into hospitality, community-building, or purposeful entrepreneurship, this episode is full of feel-good inspiration and practical insights.Subscribe, like, and comment - we’d love to know which part of Jo’s journey inspired you most!#PlantBasedBusiness #CommunityCafe #SustainableGrowth #LocalEntrepreneurs #FoodAndCommunity #TheBlondeBeat #BusinessGrowthShow
Episode 7: Tony Gardener - Legal Strategy, Local Growth & AI in Business
Welcome to Episode 7 of The Business Growth Show! Join hosts Adam and Jon as they chat with Tony Gardner from Hegarty Solicitors, a pillar of the Stamford and Rutland business community with over 35 years of leadership and networking experience across multiple industries.Tony opens up about his unique career journey, from roles in sales, marketing, and organisational leadership to stepping into legal services. Discover how he uses his diverse experience to help businesses flourish, not just legally, but through genuine human connection and strategic networking.We dive into:The power of authentic networking and how Tony connects businesses, even beyond legal solutions.Why local businesses thrive with relational outreach, not just transactions.Navigating the rise of AI in legal work, and why combining AI with human oversight is more important than ever.His top tip for growing teams: empowering people, driving accountability and supporting them to shine.And a sneak peek at upcoming local initiatives, including an Invest‑for‑Growth workshop coming this summer - small, personable, and designed to support business expansion.If you're intrigued by building resilient brands rooted in community, or curious about legal strategies that embrace innovation, this episode is a must-listen.Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and comment. Tell us which part of Tony's story struck a chord with you!#BusinessGrowth #NetworkingTips #AIinLegal #LocalEntrepreneurs #EmpowermentLeadership
Episode 6: Joanna's Journey - From PR Freelancer to Global Marketer
In this episode of The Business Growth Show, Adam and Jon sit down with Joanna Aikens, founder of Aikens Media, to hear how she went from freelancing in PR to running a successful global content marketing business, all from her home office in Rutland.Joanna shares her inspiring story of entrepreneurship, building a career in marketing before remote work was the norm, and raising two sons while growing her business. We dive into the realities of working solo, her early experience in the PR world (and modelling!), the evolution of tech in marketing, and how she’s embracing AI tools today.This one’s full of useful insight for anyone in marketing, PR, content creation, or starting a business from home.Topics we cover:Building a content agency from scratchWorking remotely long before it was coolFreelancing, resilience & risk-takingNavigating the future of AI in marketingWhy human connection still wins in businessDon’t forget to subscribe, like, and drop a comment - what part of Joanna’s story did you connect with most?#ContentMarketing #WomenInBusiness #FreelanceLife #PRStrategy #MarketingTips #WorkFromHomeSuccess #EntrepreneurJourney #AIinMarketing #BusinessGrowthShow
Episode 5: Real Advice on Starting Your First Business
If you had to start a business today with next to no money, where would you begin? In this episode, Adam and Jon break down exactly what they’d do (and what they’d avoid) if they were launching from scratch in 2025. From getting your first customer quickly and avoiding branding rabbit holes, to leveraging local communities, testing your idea on the high street, and learning how to fail forward - this is a real-world, practical guide for anyone looking to bootstrap a business the smart way. They also dig into pricing strategies, referrals, processes, and why asking for help might be your best growth move. Whether you’re thinking of starting something new or trying to get traction with what you’ve already begun, this episode is packed with honest advice and low-cost strategies that actually work.
Episode 4: Rutland Based & Proud - What's at Stake!!
In this episode of The Business Growth Show, Adam and Jon tackle a hot local topic: Rutland’s potential loss of county status. With central government pushing for council mergers, what does that mean for one of England’s smallest, and proudest, counties? They break down what’s actually happening behind the scenes, what it could mean for residents and business owners, and why local identity matters more than ever. The conversation also explores the risks for small business funding, infrastructure changes, and whether the tight-knit Rutland community could be diluted as part of a wider region. It’s a grounded, honest look at how local decisions can ripple through the business world - and why it’s worth speaking up.
Episode 3: How to Network Like a Pro - Real Advice from the East Midlands Business Scene
In this episode of The Business Growth Show, Adam and Jon explore the local networking landscape in the East Midlands, sharing honest insights on everything from BNI and the Rutland Chamber of Commerce to more relaxed events like In the Hive and walking networking groups. They talk about what works, what to watch out for, and how to approach networking without pressure. Whether you're just starting out or looking to sharpen your approach, this conversation is packed with practical advice and real-world experience that can help you build stronger business relationships.
Episode 2: From Yellow Pages to Digital Domination - The Evolution of a Marketer
In this episode, Adam from Active Internet Marketing shares how he transitioned from selling Yellow Pages ads to running a cutting-edge digital agency generating thousands of leads each year. We talk about the evolution of SEO, investing in R&D, helping clients hit personal goals (like buying that van or taking that long-overdue holiday), and the highs and lows of scaling a business. Adam also gets personal about his upcoming wedding and his long-term vision of achieving financial freedom. If you're growing a business or just curious about how modern marketing really works, this one's packed with honest advice and valuable insights.
Episode 1: Nerd to Network - Building an IT Powerhouse from the Ground Up
Meet Jon from Octopus Computers, a self-proclaimed nerd turned entrepreneur who’s grown a local IT company into a tech partner for SMEs in the Stamford area and beyond. In this episode, Jon shares the story of how his dad’s side hustle evolved into a fast-growing business, what sets his team apart in the crowded IT space, and why soft skills matter just as much as technical ones. We dig into AI, client challenges, mentorship, and his bold plans for building a free business school for young founders. Whether you're a tech lover, a small business owner, or just curious about the future of digital services - this one’s packed with useful gems.