Thriving Business

Dr Kate De Jong & Sam Morris

THRIVING BUSINESS

Business Insights to Help You Grow Your Business with Ease

We’re two seasoned business owners — Sam Morris and Kate De Jong — sharing our nearly thirty-year combined experience of starting and growing service-based businesses from the ground up. We so many small businesses struggling or falling prey to expensive promises of quick fixes or silver bullets. Both of us know what it REALLY takes to start and grow a business, we've done it many times over and we've got the blisters to prove it! We’ve joined forces to share our knowledge and experience so you can find the easiest path to success, doing it your way, and most importantly — staying true to yourself.

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Episódios

Business Planning Done Differently: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Our Unique 2025 Planning Process
02-02-2025
Business Planning Done Differently: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Our Unique 2025 Planning Process
In episode 47 of the Thriving Business podcast, Sam and I discuss the unique business planning processes we’ve implemented for 2025. After nearly a decade of experimenting with different business planning methods and approaches, we’ve both come up with our own approaches: both a little different, but powerful. Our hope is that our insights inspires you to think differently this year also, with the intention to grow and expand more than ever before.Highlights:Navigating Major Life Changes: Kate opens up about her emotional life journey of divorce in 2024 and the challenges of transitioning to a new way of life with her children.A Unique Approach to Business Planning: After a decade of experimenting with different business planning techniques, both Kate and Sam discuss the unique approaches they’ve developed to create solid business plans for 2025.Quiet Confidence: Both Kate and Sam reflect on the deep, internal confidence they have finally cultivated, allowing them to embrace their true strengths and grow in their businesses.And lots more!Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, clarity, and embracing change in both business and life.Connect with the Hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
How to Successfully Scale a Tech Business: Lessons Learned from 25 Years in Sales, Marketing and Entrepreneurship — with Matthew Wyatt
08-01-2025
How to Successfully Scale a Tech Business: Lessons Learned from 25 Years in Sales, Marketing and Entrepreneurship — with Matthew Wyatt
In this episode, hosts Sam and Kate were honoured to interview Matthew Wyatt, founder of Tech Torque and an expert in helping software and technology companies scale through strategy, sales, and marketing. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, including starting 10 successful businesses, running 4 national companies and two international organisations, Matt shares his incredible journey from selling vacuum cleaners door-to-door at age 17 to creating and scaling several multi-million-dollar companies. Matt discusses the power of resilience and training in sales, how modern businesses need to evolve their strategies to meet the demands of today’s buyers, and the mindset shift he experienced from chasing financial success to focusing on lifestyle and family. He also emphasises the importance of learning from failures and treating marketing campaigns as "hypotheses" — testing, learning, and iterating for better results.Key Takeaways:The critical role of training and resilience in sales success.The importance of adapting sales strategies to modern buying behaviors.Why hands-on experience often trumps formal education in the business world.The mindset shift from chasing financial goals to prioritising lifestyle and family.And lots more!Listen to this inspiring episode packed with practical advice and insights from a seasoned entrepreneur who’s learned to evolve, grow, and thrive in the ever-changing world of business.To learn more about Matt’s work, go here: https://techtorque.com.au/ Connect with the Hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
From Just an Idea to a Thriving Coaching Business, with Elle Hack
20-12-2024
From Just an Idea to a Thriving Coaching Business, with Elle Hack
In this latest episode, Kate was honoured to sit down with Elizabeth (Elle) Hack, founder of The Canine Care Hub and author of the bestselling book “Fetch More Clients: Effectively Market and Grow Your Canine Business in 6 Weeks”.Elle was a client of Kate’s back in 2020, just before the COVID lockdown, when Elle was first starting her business. Elle has since gone on to grow a thriving business dedicated to helping dog grooming and dog care businesses to establish a loyal customer base. Her mission is “to help canine specialists thrive by taking the pain and stress out of running a profitable, successful and fulfilling dog business.” Elle’s story highlights the power of focusing on a specific niche, especially one you’re personally passionate about.The two discussed Elizabeth's journey from just a business idea to a successful coaching platform for dog professionals. The conversation covers key growth strategies including the importance of local marketing and the value of community engagement. Elizabeth shares insights on pricing, client acquisition, and her experience in publishing her book, emphasising the need for authenticity and connection in business.TakeawaysCanine Care Hub's originCanine Care Hub was conceived during the lockdown as a brainstorming session, allowing Elizabeth to turn a challenging time into an opportunity to help others in the dog care industry.Local marketing and niche focusLocal marketing is often more effective than broad online strategies, and narrowing your niche helps forge stronger connections with clients, ensuring a more tailored and impactful approach to business growth.Importance of pricing with value Elizabeth stresses knowing your worth when setting prices, ensuring that services reflect the true value provided while maintaining financial sustainability for dog care professionals.Managing overwhelm with time boxing Time boxing is a powerful tool that helps manage overwhelm by allotting specific periods to focus on key tasks, improving productivity and preventing burnout in a busy business environment.Building a community in dog careCreating a supportive community for dog care professionals is essential for sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and providing mutual support in a competitive and challenging industry.To learn more about Elle’s work, go to: https://caninecarehub.com/ To get her book, go to: https://www.amazon.com/Fetch-More-Clients-Effectively-Business/dp/1068737905 Connect with the Hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
Good vs Bad Marketing: Breaking Down the US Election Results through a Marketing Lens
30-11-2024
Good vs Bad Marketing: Breaking Down the US Election Results through a Marketing Lens
In this episode of the Thriving Business Podcast, Sam and Kate dive into the world of marketing through the lens of the recent US election. While politics is at the forefront of many conversations, this episode discusses how successful political campaigns mirror successful marketing campaigns. What You'll Learn:The power of consistency: Kate and Sam break down the impact of consistent messaging in both politics and business. They explore how Trump’s repetitive messages, despite being controversial or factually inaccurate much of the time, became a powerful marketing tool. Consistency in business messaging — across social media, branding, and communications — is key to building authority.Marketing vs. policy: The hosts discuss how in politics, as in business, the marketing often outweighs the policy. No matter how good the policies are, if a candidate’s message doesn’t resonate with the audience, they won’t win. This holds true for entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses: Having a strong, resonant message that meets their genuine needs is more impactful than simply having a great product or service. Knowing your audience's true pain points is essential.The importance of listening: The hosts explain why adapting your message to your audience is vital. Just as Harris' unchanging message failed to land with voters, businesses need to adapt their messaging based on audience needs and reactions.Understanding "Why" in Marketing: Kate and Sam draw upon Simon Sinek's concept of "Start With Why" to explain how Trump was able to connect with working-class Americans by positioning himself as an outsider who would dismantle the corrupt system.Perception vs. Reality: The hosts discuss how perception — shaped by effective marketing — often wins over reality. While many Americans felt their lives were better under Trump, the factual economic impacts under both his administration and Biden’s have been more complex. Understanding and managing perception is critical for businesses looking to communicate their value effectively. Key Takeaways:Repetition breeds recognition: The more you communicate your message, the more likely it will resonate with your audience.Consistency works: Like political campaigns, businesses need to have a consistent message across all platforms to build their brand.Adaptability is crucial. While consistency is important, businesses should also be flexible in how they present their message depending on their audience.Strong messaging is essential for standing out—whether in politics or business. Don’t assume that just because you said something once, your audience has heard it.Resources Mentioned:Simon Sinek's Start with Why (book)The Golden Circle framework Join the Conversation: What marketing lessons have you learned from the political world? Do you agree with Kate and Sam’s takeaways? Reach out to us on social media and share your thoughts!Connect with the Hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
What it Really Takes to Attract Funding for a Start-Up Venture, with Daniel O'Connor
10-11-2024
What it Really Takes to Attract Funding for a Start-Up Venture, with Daniel O'Connor
In our most recent episode of the Thriving Business Podcast, we were honoured to sit down with innovation and commercialisation expert Daniel O'Connor. Daniel is on the UN Task Force for Innovation and Competitiveness and has been helping inventors and R&D teams to commercialise their ideas for more than 40 years, so he knows a thing or two about funding start-up ventures! Together we broke down some of the myths and misconceptions that set many start-up founders on the wrong track. We explored the key elements of what it really takes to successfully commercialise innovative ideas and attract funding for start-up ventures. From his early days of first commercialising a novel telephone accounting system through to the creation of his esteemed Inventors Academy, Daniel reveals the truth behind funding and debunks the myth of the "wealthy investor" who is sitting around, waiting to write a big cheque. He unpacks the top six things that investors are really looking for in a start-up venture. And hint, it’s not the ROI!In this episode, you’ll learn:How Daniel first commercialised his own tech product in the 1980s, overcoming early challenges.The role of the UN Task Force in fostering innovation in developing economies.Why the myth of the “wealthy investor” can derail your start-up’s growth and how to shift your focus.The top six things investors really care about (and why ROI is not number one on the list).Key lessons from Daniel’s Inventors Academy on how to approach funding and minimise risk for investors.Key Takeaways:Funding doesn’t always come from wealthy individuals—it’s about finding the right partner who shares the same market needs.Investors care more about risk mitigation than return on investment. Learn to talk about how you can reduce risk, not just promise high rewards.Successful commercialisation is about strategy, timing, and understanding the landscape—what works for big companies might not work for startups.If you’re a startup founder or inventor looking to scale, subscribe to the Thriving Business Podcast for more actionable insights from industry experts.Links & Resources:Get a FREE copy of Daniel’s book FUNDING EARLY STAGE INNOVATION here:https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/k9dx4ofwmlnrtyxgcsr4d/FUNDING-EBOOK.pdf?rlkey=bve7ir0llq59oeyaxoo6q30x7&e=1&dl=0 Connect with the Hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.comDon't forget to subscribe and leave us a review if you love our show, it helps us a lot!
Surprising New Advances in AI: How to Know What’s Real and Not Real?
23-10-2024
Surprising New Advances in AI: How to Know What’s Real and Not Real?
Episode Overview:In this episode, Kate and Sam dive into a discussion of how they’re using AI in business as a tool for organisation, strategy, and even as a coaching assistant. They discuss some of the most recent AI developments that are impacting businesses in previously unimaginable ways. They discuss the continuing implications of AI-generated content, how it can be embraced positively, and the importance of discernment in the digital age.Key Takeaways:1. Using AI to Help with Overwhelm and Task Management: Sam discusses her feelings of overwhelm due to numerous unfinished tasks and the need for better prioritisation. Kate and Sam discuss how they’re using AI to help organise tasks and set priorities, and using AI as a personal assistant.2. The Future of Coaching with AI: Kate and Sam discuss new coaching bots that are being embraced by some coaches. They discuss how, like in all other industries, coaches should not feel threatened by AI, but rather embrace it as a value-add.3. The Evolution of Podcasting with AI: Kate discusses a new AI-tool she came across that creates engaging podcasts based on existing content, highlighting the rapid advancements in AI.4. Challenges of Trust and Authenticity in a Digital World: The hosts discuss their concerns about the potential for AI to create content that blurs the lines between reality and fabrication. It highlights the importance of critical thinking and discernment, especially for younger generations consuming content online.5. The Role of Human Experience: Kate and Sam reflect on how AI, while powerful, cannot fully replicate human understanding and emotional intelligence. Both share insights from their children about the challenges of navigating truth in an age of misinformation.Subscribe to our podcast for more discussions on business, motherhood, and the impact of technology!Connect with the Hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
Escaping the Owner's Trap: Making Time to Work ON Your Business, Not IN It
02-10-2024
Escaping the Owner's Trap: Making Time to Work ON Your Business, Not IN It
In this episode, Kate and Sam discuss the enduring challenge of finding time to juggle all the balls as a business owner and specifically, how to make time to work ON your business, not IN it. It's not an easy task to balance client-focused work with the things that help your business grow long-term, like marketing activities — but it's essential. Join them as they talk through each other's experiences with finding the time to stay growth-focused while delivering top-notch service to clients, and more.Key Topics Discussed:Identifying Time Sinks: Understanding where your time is currently being spent and how to evaluate its effectiveness.Setting Priorities: The importance of prioritising tasks that align with your business growth goals and vision.Delegation Strategies: Tips for identifying tasks to delegate and finding the right team members to support your business.Time Management Techniques: Exploring tools and methods to enhance productivity, including time blocking and the Pomodoro TechniqueCreating a Business Routine: How establishing a consistent daily routine can help streamline operations.Work-Life Balance: Strategies for maintaining a healthy balance between personal life and business responsibilities.Connect with the Hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
Behind the Curtain with Jessica Gough, The Sugar Duchess: Business, Burlesque and Balancing Acts
13-09-2024
Behind the Curtain with Jessica Gough, The Sugar Duchess: Business, Burlesque and Balancing Acts
This week we were privileged to be joined by the fabulous entrepreneur-extraordinaire Jessica Gough, a.k.a The Sugar Duchess, founder and owner of Tease Industries Pty Ltd., a company dedicated to providing empowerment platforms for creative artists in the realm of Cabaret and Burlesque. Trained at the WA Academy for Performing Arts (WAAPA) and previously a video journalist for the ABC, Jess took a leap of faith in 2018 to pursue her passion for Burlesque and the performing arts. Kate and Jess met back in 2019, one year after Jess had purchased the Perth International Burlesque Festival. Six years later, Jess shares what it’s been like running a Burlesque and Cabaret performance company, while juggling a full time career. We love hearing real stories from business owners who have relentlessly pursued their passion and never given up. Kate and Jess discuss the original origins and definition of Burlesque as a celebration of bodies, identities, and diversity. Jess talks through the challenges faced by her community during the COVID-19 pandemic and the resilience of the Burlesque community, and emerging to continue building a highly successful business. She also shares her experience of balancing her passion for the Burlesque art form with a full-time job and the importance of diversifying her business.Key TakeawaysLike many business owners, Jess has the ability to be highly creative, but she balances it with a focused and disciplined business mind, which she says has been the key to her success."Growth isn't linear"; Jess discusses the ups and downs of growing a business.The Burlesque art form is a celebration of bodies, identities, and differences, with origins in Europe in parody and storytelling.Tease Industries creates platforms for artists to explore and showcase their craft and fosters inclusivity in the Burlesque community and beyond.The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the Burlesque industry, but the community supported each other and found ways to adapt.Jessica successfully balances her passion for Burlesque with a full-time job, emphasising the importance of stable income while building a business.Diversification is crucial for business sustainability and growth, allowing for multiple revenue streams and opportunities. Failure is a learning opportunity and should be embraced.Surrounding yourself with a supportive community is essential for success.The merging of science and spirituality can lead to personal growth and abundance.And lots more!Connect with the Hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
How Branding and Graphic Design Can Either Make or Break Your Business
17-08-2024
How Branding and Graphic Design Can Either Make or Break Your Business
In this conversation, Kate and Sam discuss the importance of strong branding and graphic design, sharing some of the good, the bad and the ugly they’ve seen in nearly a decade of coaching business owners to grow their businesses. They emphasise the need for professional input and guidance in creating a strong visual identity. They highlight the significance of colour theory, font selection, white space and ‘kerning’ in graphic design. They also stress the importance of consistency and clarity in branding, as well as the use of templates and brand style guides when getting started. The conversation concludes with tips on readability and the effective use of brand colours.Takeaways:Graphic design plays a crucial role in branding and marketing.Professional input and guidance are essential in creating a strong visual identity.Colour theory and font selection are important considerations in graphic design.White space is critical for readability and visual impact.Consistency and clarity are key in establishing a strong brand.Using templates and brand style guides can help maintain consistency.Readability should be prioritised, especially in digital formats.Effective use of brand colours can enhance brand recognition.Connect with the Hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
Breaking Down SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) as an Essential Tool to Fuel Business Growth
01-08-2024
Breaking Down SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) as an Essential Tool to Fuel Business Growth
In this episode, we discuss the importance of SEO (search engine optimisation) as an essential building block of your overall business growth strategy. SEO encompasses all the things you do on and off your website to drive visitors to your website (your online shop front). We emphasise the need to get the foundational building blocks and messaging right before diving into SEO, so that your visitors have a better chance at converting once they arrive on your website.  We talk about the role of keywords, backlinks, and site loading speed (among others) as essential pieces of an overall SEO strategy. While we advise that you outsource the technical aspects of SEO to specialists, as always it’s important to educate yourself first so you can make sound decisions.We highly recommend the free SEO training provided by Anthony Raspa and his team at Dezign Digital to learn more: Everything you need to know about SEO - Dezign DigitalTakeaways:Get the foundational parts of your business right before diving into SEO.Focus on all three pillars of SEO: local SEO, organic SEO, and technical SEO.Outsource the technical aspects of SEO and use AI tools to assist with meta descriptions and alt tags.Prioritise providing valuable content for readers over prioritising SEO.Use a multi-pronged approach to marketing that includes SEO, social media marketing, branding, and messaging.More info here:https://dezigndigital.com.au/everything-you-need-to-know-about-seo/Connect with the hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
LIVE with Angie Giltner in Bali: From Tragedy to Triumph, Recovering from Bad Business Decisions
20-07-2024
LIVE with Angie Giltner in Bali: From Tragedy to Triumph, Recovering from Bad Business Decisions
This episode comes to you live from the Inspired Business Retreat in Bali! Kate and Sam unite with Angie Giltner, powerhouse Master Coach and motivational speaker for another episode with Angie (our first episode with Angie is still our most downloaded show to this day - have a listen if you haven’t heard it yet!). Together they reflect on Angie's journey over the past year, coming back from a bad business decision that rocked her to her core. They discuss the importance of forgiveness of oneself and others, getting back to what works to get yourself back on track, and the value of doing deep personal work to find new alignment and re-energised focus. The conversation touches on the power of mindset, the importance of simplicity in business, and the need to align one's thoughts and emotions with their desired outcomes. In this conversation, Kate, Angie, and Sam discuss Angie's journey of overcoming challenges and finding her true identity as an entrepreneur. They explore the importance of mindset, finding a good coach, and aligning with one's “core desired feelings” (a concept developed by Danielle LaPorte). They also touch on the significance of gratitude, the inspiring qualities of Balinese culture, and the power of knowing your numbers. The conversation concludes with a reminder to seek help when needed and to stay true to yourself, always.Takeaways:Forgiving yourself for a bad business decision is crucial for moving forward and reclaiming your power.Getting back to what works and investing in yourself are key to overcoming challenges and getting back to achieving success.Mindset plays a significant role in business success, and it's important to align thoughts and emotions with desired outcomes.Simplicity is essential and overcomplicating things can hinder growth and progress. Having a coach or mentor is essential for all entrepreneurs, regardless of the type of business they have.Aligning with your core desired feelings and true identity is crucial for success and fulfillment.Expressing gratitude and practicing cultural traditions can bring joy and happiness.Numbers can hold personal significance and serve as signs or confirmations.Seek help and stay true to yourself to overcome challenges and achieve the success you deserve.Tune in now to learn more.Connect with the hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
Master Your Marketing Essentials: Discover How to Harness the Power of Three
04-07-2024
Master Your Marketing Essentials: Discover How to Harness the Power of Three
In this episode, Kate and Sam discuss fundamentals of marketing, including the importance of lead magnets, landing pages and online nurture sequences in building trust and converting prospects into customers. They emphasise the need to start with the end in mind, aligning free offers with paid offers. They also explore the power of ‘experiential’ lead magnets, such as video series and live events that immerse customers in the brand and build trust quickly. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the rule of three in marketing and the power of simplicity in sales funnels.TakeawaysStart with the end in mind and align your lead magnet with your ultimate offer.Experiential lead magnets, such as video series and live events, can build trust quickly.Offering value for free can showcase expertise and increase the likelihood of conversion.Building trust and credibility is essential in the buyer's journey.Focus on solving the prospect's problem rather than personal connection.Shorten the sales funnel by being present and interacting with prospects. Experiential lead magnets, such as live events or interactive webinars, can be highly effective in building trust with potential clients.Lead magnets should provide valuable and specific information that can't be found elsewhere, rather than generic content.Landing pages should be simple and easy to navigate, with a clear value proposition and a prominent form for visitors to fill in.The rule of three is a powerful psychological principle in marketing, and simplicity is key in creating effective sales funnels. Connect with the hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
How to Bust Through Revenue Stagnation with the Power of Creative Thinking — with Ortal Green
19-06-2024
How to Bust Through Revenue Stagnation with the Power of Creative Thinking — with Ortal Green
Summary:In this episode, we were joined by Ortal Green, an expert in creative and innovative thinking. With a background in IT startups in Israel, Ortal spent many years working in the high-tech industry where she realised that the ability to succeed in business comes down to our ability to think creatively and innovatively. This set Ortal on a path to eventually become a mindset shifter and founder of Success by Design. Ortal explains how, sadly, our education system does not develop our skills for creative thinking. In a large study, 98% of all children aged 5 were considered ‘creative thinkers’. By the time we become teenagers this drops to less than half, and by the time we become adults, it drops to less than 5%. Ortal Green shares four proven ways to expand your thinking creatively and innovatively, which inevitably leads to increased business revenue. If you’ve hit a revenue ceiling in your business and you’re looking for ways to break through to new levels of growth and success, don’t miss this episode!TakeawaysCreative and innovative thinking are essential for success in business.The education system often stifles creativity, but it is a skill that can be developed.Exercises like repurposing objects and merging unrelated ideas can help develop creative thinking skills.Shifting from a victim mindset to a transformer mindset is crucial when facing obstacles.Improving processes can drive innovation and improve the customer experience. Merging with other businesses can create a stronger and more competitive entity.Repurposing ideas or technologies from other industries can lead to innovation and growth.Breaking the status quo and challenging traditional norms can open up new opportunities.Creative thinking, self-belief, and having a clear vision are essential for success in business. Connect with the hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
Trusting the Business Journey, Even When Life Throws You Curveballs
05-06-2024
Trusting the Business Journey, Even When Life Throws You Curveballs
In this episode, Kate and Sam open up and share some of the things going on behind the scenes that have made life and business challenging in recent months. Building  a business is not always an easy journey, especially when life throws curveballs into the mix!Sam shares her recent stressful experiences with some personal medical challenges. She discusses the emotional and mental toll these experiences can have, even while you have to keep showing up for your clients and your business. Kate and Sam talk about the importance of sharing and supporting one another when going through these experiences. They also emphasise the need for regular health screenings and taking care of oneself while running a business. The conversation highlights the role of mindset and the power of positive thinking in navigating difficult situations. The conversation explores the themes of faith, learning lessons, being present, vulnerability, all the way through to content marketing, and the power of social media. Sam and Kate discuss the importance of learning the lessons that life presents and how the universe will keep throwing challenges until those lessons are learned. They also talk about the significance of being present in the moment and trusting that you are exactly where you need to be. The conversation delves into the vulnerability of sharing personal experiences on social media and the balance between authenticity and oversharing. They also touch on the importance of organic and paid marketing strategies and the role of social media in business growth.TakeawaysHealth issues and personal challenges can have a significant emotional and mental toll.Sharing and supporting one another is important in navigating difficult situations.Regular health screenings are crucial for early detection and prevention.Taking care of oneself is essential while running a business.Mindset and positive thinking play a significant role in overcoming challenges. Life presents lessons that we need to learn, and the universe will keep throwing challenges until those lessons are learned.Being present in the moment and trusting that you are exactly where you need to be is essential for personal growth.There is a balance between authenticity and oversharing on social media, and it's important to be mindful of what and when to share.Organic and paid marketing strategies should be used in parallel to maximise the effectiveness of social media advertising.Quality content is more important than quantity when it comes to content marketing. Connect with the hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
The Art of Monetisation: How to Set Up Your Business so that it Creates Consistent Revenue
22-05-2024
The Art of Monetisation: How to Set Up Your Business so that it Creates Consistent Revenue
As business owners, most of us love to share our knowledge and to help others, but to succeed in business you of course need to turn that knowledge-sharing process into revenue generation. In this conversation, Kate and Sam discuss use their podcast as an example of  the monetising journey. They discuss the importance of having a clear strategy to build a platform, generate warm leads, and convert them into paying customers. They caution against relying solely on social media for sales, wasting money on branding and design before establishing a viable business, and falling for get-rich-quick sales tactics. The hosts also discuss some of the common mistakes that entrepreneurs make when starting a business and provide tips on how to avoid them. They emphasise the importance of knowing the problem you are solving, identifying your target market, creating a clear offer, getting out of your comfort zone, and consistently showing up in person and online. They talk about the need for authenticity and transparency in marketing and the importance of finding a coach or mentor who has achieved success in your desired field.TakeawaysThe journey of monetisation requires you to have a clear strategy to build a platform, generate warm leads, and convert them into paying customers.If you host (or you’re planning to host) your own podcast, a dedicated website can help with SEO and provide a central platform for accessing episodes, videos, and valuable downloads.Social media should not be relied upon as the sole source of sales. Building a platform and trust takes time and consistent effort.Investing in branding and design should be done after establishing a viable business and understanding the target market.Beware of get-rich-quick sales tactics and focus on sustainable, long-term strategies for business growth. Know the problem you are solving and define it clearlyAs always, identifying your target market and understanding their specific needs is key.Create one clear offer that addresses the problem and provides a transformationGet out of your comfort zone and network with potential clients and partners.Consistently show up in person and online to build trust and credibility.Be authentic and transparent in your marketing.Find a coach or mentor who has achieved success in your desired field.Did you want to join us in Bali? We’d love to have you join us on the Inspired Business Bali Retreat! Go here to learn more:Bali retreat 13-20 July 2024: https://katedejong.com/inspired-business-bali-retreat/  Connect with the hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessWebsite: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
What Makes a Great Salesperson? Lessons from 33 Years in the Sales Industry
08-05-2024
What Makes a Great Salesperson? Lessons from 33 Years in the Sales Industry
Summary:In this episode, Kate and Sam are joined by Katie Nelson from Sales Uprising in the USA. Katie’s a seasoned sales professional with over 33 years of sales experience, so she knows what she’s talking about when it comes to selling! Katie shares her natural journey into sales from her first job at a call centre at age 15 to becoming a successful entrepreneur, sharing insights and anecdotes along the way. Katie shares her insights on the qualities of a great sales leader, emphasising the importance of competence, clear communication, and active listening. She addresses the stumbling blocks that keep many solopreneurs stuck in five-figure incomes, with Katie, Kate and Sam reflecting on their own experiences with sales and business development. Katie encourages listeners to approach sales with confidence and curiosity, knowing that with the right mindset and strategies, you can achieve anything you put your mind to!Key Highlights:Early Career in Sales: Katie reflects on her early experiences selling various products over the phone, including insurance programs and coffee subscriptions. Despite the challenges, she thrived in the call centre environment, consistently earning the highest commissions thanks to her natural affinity for sales.Qualities of a Sales Leader: Katie dispels common misconceptions about sales, highlighting the need to understand the needs and desires of your customers.Stumbling Blocks for Solopreneurs: Katie addresses some of the stumbling blocks that keep solopreneurs stuck in five-figure incomes, sharing her own experiences in the early stages of business and embracing discomfort to achieve growth.Encouragement and Takeaways: Katie emphasises the importance of listening when selling, and approaching sales with confidence and curiosity. And lots more!What's one sales challenge you're currently facing that you hope to gain insights on? Please reach out and let us know! Connect with the hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessBali retreat 13-20 July 2024: https://katedejong.com/inspired-business-bali-retreat/ Website: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
Unlock the Secrets to Successful Social Media Marketing with Katrina Collins at Butterfly Media
24-04-2024
Unlock the Secrets to Successful Social Media Marketing with Katrina Collins at Butterfly Media
In this episode of the Thriving Business Podcast, host Sam Morris is joined by a special guest, Katrina Collins from Butterfly Media, to delve into the world of social media marketing and Facebook advertising. Butterfly Media is a digital marketing agency that provides effortless lead generation for professional coaches. Katrina believes every person has the potential to do great things which is why she’s committed to shining a light on the brave, authentic and talented coaches who are bogged down by the everyday grind in their business.Katrina shares her journey from a creative background to founding Butterfly Media, driven by her passion for storytelling and helping business owners to recognise their worth. Katrina and Sam discuss the importance of having a strategic plan for social media marketing, focusing on building connections and sharing stories rather than just sales pitches. Katrina emphasises the power of authenticity in social media content, advising listeners to stay focused on their clients' needs and avoid oversharing. They explore the organic process of social media marketing, guiding listeners on how to create content that resonates with their audience and leads them on a journey toward becoming clients. Katrina shares insights into the role of advertising in converting social media followers into clients, highlighting the importance of engaging with followers authentically and providing value before making sales pitches and so much more!Key Highlights:Organic Social Media: Establishing a Plan for Success: Katrina shares the importance of creating a 12-month content plan aligned with quarterly sales goals. She explains how to focus on storytelling and educational content rather than just sales pitches.Authenticity in Social Media, Finding the Balance: Katrina advises how to stay true to yourself and your audience, focusing on solving your clients' problems and sharing your personal stories in a genuine way.Building Relationships through Outreach: Learn how to engage with influencers and communities in your niche. Use direct messages (DMs) strategically to start conversations and build connections.Paid advertising: How to do it right!The Power of Facebook Groups: Groups can be effective for selling products with limited-time offers. For service providers, community-focused engagement may be more beneficial. Consider alternative platforms like WhatsApp and specialised membership communities for deeper engagement.And lots more!Are you ready to explore the power of paid advertising to scale your business to new heights? Tune in to discover the strategies and insights shared by Katrina from Butterfly Media.  Connect with the hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessBali retreat: https://katedejong.com/inspired-business-bali-retreat/ Website: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
SYSTEMOLOGY: David Jenyns Shares How to Create Time, Reduce Errors and Scale Your Profits with Proven Business Systems
10-04-2024
SYSTEMOLOGY: David Jenyns Shares How to Create Time, Reduce Errors and Scale Your Profits with Proven Business Systems
In this episode of the Thriving Business Podcast, hosts Kate and Sam welcome bestselling author and systems master, David Jenyns, to discuss the power of systemisation in business. David shares his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting pivotal moments such as selling pieces of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (fascinating story!) and founding Systemology to help business owners implement systems for scalability. The conversation delves into the misconceptions surrounding systemisation, strategies for overcoming resistance to change among team members, and the role of systems in creating workplace wellbeing and creativity. David provides an abundance of free resources that will help you embrace systemisation for your long term financial freedom, time freedom and business success.Key Highlights:The Art of Systemisation: David discusses his transition from being deeply involved in business operations to focusing on systemising processes for scalability. He emphasises the importance of implementing systems to free business owners from daily operations and enable scalability. You’re bound to learn some great new insights about systems here — we did!Navigating Resistance to Change: Sam, Kate and David discuss strategies for overcoming resistance to systemisation, particularly among existing team members. David stresses the importance of effective communication, emphasising the benefits of systemisation for all stakeholders.Creating a Culture of Success: Sam, Kate and David discuss the role of systems in fostering workplace wellbeing and improving employee retention, highlighting how systems provide structure and autonomy, enabling creativity and innovation within organisations.You can order David’s bestselling book SYSTEMOLOGY here: https://www.amazon.com/Systemology-Create-Profits-Business-Systems/dp/B08FXTFBQT/ To get access to all David’s amazing free resources, go here: https://www.systemology.com/launchpad/ Are you ready to systemise and scale your business to new heights? Tune in to discover the strategies and insights shared by David Jenyns as we delve into the art of systemisation. Join us for an engaging discussion on creating time freedom and financial freedom through the power of systems. Connect with the hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessBali retreat: https://katedejong.com/inspired-business-bali-retreat/ Website: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com
Kate & Sam’s Insider Tips for Hosting Retreats & Events Your Guests Will Love
27-03-2024
Kate & Sam’s Insider Tips for Hosting Retreats & Events Your Guests Will Love
If you’re a business that hosts retreats or events — or you’re planning to — don’t miss this episode! Hosts Kate De Jong and Sam Morris discuss their insights and personal experiences of both hosting and attending retreats and live events. They share what works and what doesn’t work, plus common pitfalls to avoid. They discuss Kate's upcoming Inspired Business Retreat in Bali, Indonesia, highlighting its intentional design to balance business-focused workshops with ample downtime for reflection and relaxation. Tune in as they share tips on crafting meaningful experiences in live events. Whether you're considering hosting your own retreat or simply seeking inspiration for your business journey, this episode has something for you.To learn more about Kate’s upcoming retreat, go here: https://katedejong.com/inspired-business-bali-retreat/ Key Highlights:Introduction to retreats: Kate and Sam kick off by discussing the allure and misconceptions surrounding retreats, emphasising simplicity and clarity in planning.Crafting meaningful experiences: The hosts explore the importance of creating space for reflection and relaxation within retreat itineraries, drawing from Kate's upcoming Bali retreat as a prime example.Designing for attendee needs: Kate shares her intentional approach to understanding her attendee’s needs and designing the experience around that.The power of free space in an itinerary: Reflecting on their past retreat experiences, Kate and Sam discuss how the right amount of free time is necessary for fresh insights and inspiration to drop in.Navigating event pitfalls: Kate & Sam caution against overloading events with content and they share valuable lessons on structuring workshops and managing logistical challenges, based on their own experiences of attending and hosting events.Build trust through value: Kate and Sam discuss the importance of delivering genuine value in events and retreats, contrasting it with instances of events lacking in substance despite high ticket prices.Navigating networking: The conversation extends to networking experiences, emphasising the significance of authentic connections over sales pitches in professional gatherings.Strategic event planning: Sam emphasises the need for clear event objectives and strategic planning, ensuring alignment between attendee expectations and event outcomes. Connect with the hosts:Kate De Jong, PhD | Inspired BusinessBali retreat: https://katedejong.com/inspired-business-bali-retreat/ Website: https://katedejong.com/Instagram: katedejong.inspiredbusinessEmail: kate@katedejong.comSam Morris | The Business ImplementorWebsite: https://thebusinessimplementor.com/Instagram: sammorris.businesscoachEmail: sam@thebusinessimplementor.com