Small Business Talk Cathy Smith: Recent Episodes
Small Business Talk
Small Business Talk is a podcast is for business owners and entrepreneurs who want to find a better way to run their businesses without having to spend years doing it the hard way. Discover tips and techniques that you can use to take your business to the next level. Enjoy episodes with our guest experts; along with deeper dives into tools and tips that you can use in your business. The tools and tips these episodes are in easy to follow actionable steps, so you will not want to miss them. Small Business Talk is hosted by Cathy Smith who has run the same Marketing Agency for more than 17 years and helped hundreds of business owners achieve their marketing goals. Learn about building your social media channels, how to get Google to love your website, developing a digital marketing strategy, tools to make your business life easier and much more. Whether you’re a small business owner, seasoned entrepreneur or just beginning your business journey, this show is for you. New episodes every Thursday.
What if your next coaching client is not on social media? 🤔
Most coaches spend hours creating content, hoping the next post will bring their next client.
What if the real opportunity is sitting in conversations you have already started?
In this episode, Cathy Smith shares the 3 conversations that lead to coaching clients, why follow up is not being pushy and how one simple shift can turn existing connections into paying clients.
🎧 Listen now and start having the conversations that grow your coaching business.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What if you did all the work to build trust, only for another coach to get the client when they were finally ready to buy?
People do not buy because you are ready to sell. They buy because they are ready to solve a problem and they trust you can help.
In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith shares a personal buying experience that reveals why the person who creates the need is not always the person who gets the sale.
If people are listening, watching and learning from you but choosing someone else when they are ready to buy, this episode may explain what is happening.
You might be sick of your message, but your potential clients are still out there waiting for you.
Press play. The client who is not ready today may be closer than you think.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
🎧 What if the biggest coaching mistake isn't asking the wrong question... it's asking the next one too soon?
Many coaches are so focused on asking powerful questions that they accidentally interrupt the very moment a breakthrough is about to happen.
In this episode, Cathy explores one of the most overlooked coaching skills: recognising when to stop talking, hold the silence and listen beyond the story. Discover how noticing patterns, allowing space and using three simple words, "Tell me more," can lead to deeper insights and more transformational coaching conversations.
If you want your clients to experience bigger breakthroughs with fewer questions, this episode is one you won't want to miss. 🎧 Listen now.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
🎧 Thinking about leaving corporate to start a coaching business?
Making the leap is about far more than getting certified. It is about shifting your identity, building confidence, creating a personal brand and learning how to run a business, not just coach.
In this episode, Cathy Smith chats with leadership coach Shirley Sutton about turning decades of corporate leadership and HR experience into a thriving coaching business. They explore the mindset shifts, challenges and lessons that come with leaving the security of corporate life. Why personal branding matters more than ever and how to build a coaching business that reflects who you really are.
Listen now and discover what it really takes to make the transition from corporate leader to successful coach. 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever tried to sell everything and ended up selling nothing?
In this episode, Cathy shares the simple burger shop story that explains why clear, specific messaging makes it easier for coaching clients to say yes.
You will discover why narrowing your focus does not lose clients, how the right people recognise themselves faster, and why recognition will always beat persuasion.
🎧 Listen now and find out how to make your message easier to understand and easier to say yes to.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What if the biggest thing holding you back isn't your strategy, your skills or the market... but the way you see the world?
In this episode, Cathy Smith explores Stephen Covey's powerful concept that "the map is not the territory" and why 2 people can experience the same situation but see completely different possibilities. Through stories from Tony Robbins, the recent ICF coaching event, everyday examples and practical coaching insights, you will discover how confirmation bias shapes your decisions, your marketing and your results.
If you're ready to stop looking for evidence of why you can't and start seeing what's actually possible, this episode will change the way you think. 🎧 Listen now.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
🎧 Do you keep waking up at 3am?
Forgetting words mid sentence?
Walking into a room and wondering why you are there?
If you are a coach or business owner in your 40s, 50s or beyond, it may not be stress, burnout or lack of motivation.
It could be hormonal change.
In this eye opening episode, Cathy Smith sits down with perimenopause and menopause coach Dorota to uncover the hidden performance costs of midlife hormonal change and how it impacts confidence, focus, energy, sleep and business performance.
You will discover why so many high performing women feel like they are suddenly struggling, what is really happening in the body and practical ways to support yourself through this stage of life.
If you have ever wondered, "What is wrong with me?" this conversation may provide the answers you have been looking for.
🎉 Press play and learn how to work with your body, not against it, so you can continue to thrive in business and life.
This version leads with curiosity, recognisable symptoms and the emotional question many women are asking themselves. It is designed to stop the scroll and encourage downloads.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
🎧 Why can you remember a story from 20 years ago... yet forget what someone told you yesterday?
Because stories stick.
Facts fade.
And if you are struggling to attract coaching clients, that simple truth could be costing you business.
In this episode, Cathy Smith shares a family story about a buried treasure that nobody could find and reveals why stories are one of the most powerful tools in coaching, marketing and sales.
If people are not remembering your message, connecting with your content or taking the next step, the problem may not be what you are saying.
It may be how you are saying it.
Discover why stories sell, why they build trust faster than facts and how the right story can help potential clients see themselves in your message.
🎧 Listen now and learn how to turn everyday stories into powerful coaching conversations and marketing that people actually remember.
🎉 Press play.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
🎧 What if your marketing did not fail?
What if it simply became something else?
In Episode 351, Cathy Smith shares a powerful story about a fallen tree and what it can teach coaches about marketing, growth and momentum.
Because when a webinar flops, a launch feels flat or a post gets no engagement, it is easy to call it a failure.
But what if that one idea gave you confidence, content, insight, conversations and the next clue?
This episode will help you stop mourning what did not work and start seeing the value, lessons and opportunities already growing underneath.
🎉 Listen now and discover why nothing in your marketing is wasted.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
🎧 Still waiting to feel ready?
That might be exactly why the clients are not coming.
In this Five Minute Momentum episode, Cathy Smith gives you the nudge every coach needs. Stop waiting for more confidence, more planning, more content or the perfect time.
Clients come from conversations, invitations, trust and action.
If you have been stuck in planning mode, this is your reminder to move. Send the message. Follow up. Make the offer. Start the conversation.
🎉 Stop waiting. Start inviting.
🎧 Listen now and build your next piece of momentum today
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
🎧 No email list? No problem.
One of the biggest myths in coaching is that you need a huge audience before you can get clients.
You do not.
In Episode 350, Cathy Smith shares practical ways to start building an email list from scratch, even if you feel like you have nobody to market to.
Learn how to find the contacts you already have, what to send them, how to create a simple free gift and why a small engaged list will outperform a large disconnected audience every time.
If you have been waiting until you have "enough people" before getting started, this episode is your permission slip to begin today.
🎉 Stop waiting. Start building.
🎧 Listen now and discover how to grow your email list no matter where you are starting from.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What if your next coaching client is already watching you… and you do not even realise it?
They are on your email list.
They have liked your posts.
They have had conversations with you before.
So why are they hiring other coaches instead?
In this Five Minute Momentum, Cathy Smith reveals the simple mistake many coaches make that quietly costs them clients and the small shift that can change everything.
Because growing your coaching business is not always about finding more people.
Sometimes it is about reconnecting with the people already in your world.
🎧 Listen now. Your next client might already be closer than you think.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“The extra 1% is sometimes just being realistic about what is possible.”
Most coaches think profit problems come from not getting enough clients.
Sometimes the real problem is what is happening behind the scenes.
Poor communication.
High turnover.
Unclear expectations.
Clients quietly leaving.
Systems breaking down.
In this episode, Cathy Smith chats with Todd Krause about the hidden profit leaks that can quietly drain your coaching business even while you are growing.
Because more revenue does not always mean more profit.
🎧 Listen now and learn the simple shifts that can create a stronger, more profitable business.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Numbers do not judge you.
They show you what to do next.
If your coaching business feels emotional, inconsistent or confusing, this Five Minute Momentum will help you take the drama out of it.
Cathy Smith shares the 3 simple numbers every coach needs to track so you can stop guessing and start building a healthier client pipeline.
No complicated dashboards.
No maths panic.
Just clear data that shows you where your next client could come from.
🎧 Listen now and turn your numbers into momentum.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
🎧 Are you using AI all wrong?
Most coaches are chasing shiny AI tools, buying subscriptions they do not need and still feeling overwhelmed.
After attending 2 major AI events, Cathy Smith shares the real shift coaches and small business owners need to make before AI becomes useful.
Because the smartest businesses are not starting with the tool. They are starting with the problem they want solved.
If AI feels exciting, confusing or slightly terrifying, this episode is a must listen.
🎉 Press play before you buy another AI subscription.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coaches spend so much time supporting everyone else that they often forget to support themselves.
🎧 Happy International Coaching Week! 🎉
In this powerful episode, Cathy dives into why coaches need coaches too, how overthinking keeps you stuck and why tiny shifts can completely change your confidence, mindset and business growth.
If you have been waiting for the “right time” to show up, get clients or back yourself properly, this episode needs to be on your listen now list.
Stop spinning. Start moving. Your future coaching business is waiting. 🎧✨
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever wonder why some coaches seem to gain momentum while others stay stuck spinning their wheels?
It is not always the most qualified coach who succeeds.
It is usually the coach who keeps showing up, stays visible and learns how to clearly communicate their value.
In Episode 346, Cathy Smith unpacks the real habits successful coaches build behind the scenes from niching and messaging to confidence, consistency and relationship building.
This episode will help you stop overcomplicating your coaching business and start focusing on the things that actually attract clients and create growth.
If you are ready to build momentum, strengthen your message and think more like a successful coach, this episode is for you. What successful coaches do differently, listen up 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Staying in touch does not need to be hard.
It just needs to happen.
In this 5 Minute Momentum, Cathy Smith shares a simple truth many coaches need to hear. If you are chasing more followers, more likes and more leads, while ignoring the people already on your list, you are sitting on a goldmine and leaving it untouched.
This episode is a quick reset on how to reconnect with your database, warm up old leads and turn silence into conversations. Cathy walks you through a simple 3 email approach to re engage your audience, share what you are doing and make a clear offer without making it complicated.
If clients are not coming in consistently, this is your reminder to stop overlooking the list you already have.
🎧 Listen now and start using your email list the way it was meant to be used.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You are showing up.
You are posting.
You are doing the work.
So why are clients still not coming consistently?
It is not your content.
In Episode 345, Cathy Smith breaks down the simple client flow most coaches are missing and why visibility alone is not enough to grow your coaching business.
If you are stuck posting and hoping, this episode will show you how to move people from interest to action using one simple shift.
🎧 Listen now and start turning conversations into coaching clients.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
I am so far behind.
I should be further along by now.
That thought can wreck your whole day.
In this 5 Minute Momentum, Cathy Smith shares a simple reminder every coach needs to hear. You are not behind. You are just measuring yourself against the wrong things.
The scrolling.
The comparing.
The self doubt.
It all pulls you away from what actually matters.
This episode will help you quiet the noise, stop watching what everyone else is doing and get back to building your coaching business your way.
A quick mindset reset.
A confidence boost.
A better way to move forward.
🎧 Hit play if comparison has been stealing your momentum.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You are visible.
You are consistent.
You are doing the work.
Yet clients are still not coming.
That is frustrating. It is confusing. It can make you wonder if any of it is working.
In this episode, Cathy Smith unpacks why coaches can keep showing up and still not see client growth. You will learn what is really blocking momentum, why visibility alone is not enough and how to start creating more conversations, invitations and client opportunities.
🎧 Listen now if you are tired of being visible and not getting results.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stop waiting. Start moving.
Your coaching business will stall when you keep waiting.
Waiting to post. Waiting to feel ready. Waiting for the perfect time.
That is where momentum disappears.
It does not have to be that way.
Sometimes you do not need more content.
You need more action.
In Episode 343, Cathy Smith asks a powerful question. What would you do if you were not waiting? Learn why coaching clients come from visibility, conversations and follow up, not more consuming, more qualifications or more overthinking.
🎧 Listen now and take the next step in your coaching business for new and established coaches, let's get you moving again.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Caught in the comparison trap? This 5 Minute Momentum is your reminder that you are not behind. If scrolling social media is feeding self doubt, second guessing and overwhelm, this episode will help you reset your focus, protect your energy and get back into action. Cathy shares a simple mindset shift for coaches who keep comparing their chapter 5 to someone else’s chapter 25.
A powerful pep talk for building confidence, staying visible and growing your coaching business without losing momentum.
🎧 Hit play now and reset your mindset. Stop comparing and start moving forward.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why are you not getting coaching clients… even though you are doing everything right?
In this episode, Cathy Smith reveals the real reason coaches struggle to sign clients consistently and why it has nothing to do with visibility. Discover how to use your email list, warm audience and past conversations to create more client opportunities without chasing new leads.
If you want more coaching clients, better conversions and a simpler marketing approach, start here.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feeling like you are falling behind in your coaching business?
Doubt creeping in, negative spiral looming and you are starting to question everything?
You are not behind. In this episode, Cathy Smith breaks down what is really happening behind the scenes, the 4 phases of growth and why compare and despair is holding you back.
This is your reset to steady your mindset, refocus your actions and keep moving forward. 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What makes you stand out as a coach when the market feels full of people saying the same thing?
In Episode 340, Cathy Smith talks with branding specialist Katherine Tohme about finding your unique message, owning your story and building a brand that feels true to you. This is a must listen if you want to stop blending in and start being remembered.
🎧 Download now and hear the simple shifts that can make your brand stronger.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your coaching business can feel unpredictable.
Up one week. Quiet the next.
That is where the drama starts.
It does not have to be that way.
Sometimes you do not need more marketing.
You need better numbers.
In Episode 339, Cathy Smith shares the 3 numbers every coach needs to track to grow with more clarity and less emotion. Learn how conversations, invitations and conversions can show you what is working, where the gap is and what to do next.
🎧 Listen now and start making your client growth easier.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
They have the problem.
You have the solution.
Now you need to make the offer.
In this 5 Minute Momentum, Cathy Smith shares a simple reminder every coach needs. If your invitation is not clear people will not buy. Learn how to make a direct offer, handle the next step with confidence and stop overexplaining your coaching.
🎧 Listen now and practise the ask.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You are visible.
You are connecting.
People seem interested.
So why are they not becoming clients?
In Episode 338, Cathy breaks down the moment where many coaches lose the client. The conversation is going well, the interest is there, then everything stalls.
Learn how to confidently make the ask, structure discovery calls and guide the conversation so interest turns into a clear yes.
🎧 Press play and start converting conversations into clients.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
5 Minute Momentum, Client Rhythms
If your leads have gone quiet, do not create more content. Create a rhythm.
In this 5 Minute Momentum, Cathy shares the 3 part client rhythm that keeps you visible without burnout. Visibility, follow up and invitations.
Press play and pick your weekly rhythm today. 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
5 Minute Momentum, Boundaries
Feeling burnt out? It might not be coaching. It might be your boundaries.
In this 5 Minute Momentum, Cathy shares a simple reset to stop the energy leaks that drain your day.
No guilt. No over explaining. Just clean boundaries that help you stay energised, focused and consistent.
Press play and protect your energy today. 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you want more clients you do not need a new marketing strategy every month. You need a simple system you can stick with.
In Episode 337, Cathy shares a sustainable client system you can run weekly without burnout. Stay visible in a way that suits you, follow up with the people already in your world and make clear invitations so potential clients know how to take the next step.
🎧 Listen now and pick 1 action to implement this week.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Getting more clients should not cost you your peace.
In this episode, Cathy is joined by holistic practitioner Kathryn Eipl to break down how to grow your business without hustle, overwhelm or panic marketing. You will learn how to find a consistent rhythm that fits your life, stay authentic in your messaging and use simple nervous system resets so you show up calm and confident.
Press play if you want more clients without burning out.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If your leads have gone quiet, do not post more. Start 10 conversations.
In this 5 Minute Momentum, Cathy shares the simple reconnection challenge that gets you back into real client chats fast. No pitch. No awkward selling. Just 10 messages to people you already know, sent with the right mindset.
Press play, pick your 10 and restart your momentum today. 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your leads have gone quiet and your brain is yelling “push harder”.
That reaction is costing you clients.
In this episode, Cathy shares the simple reset she uses when things go quiet so you can get back into momentum without panic posting, discounting or chasing shiny tactics.
Press play if you want calm confidence and a clear next move. 🎧 Listening now.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If your coaching calendar has slowed down and your to do list keeps growing, this episode is your reset 🎧
You do not need more ideas. You need follow through.
Cathy breaks down why unfinished tasks are draining your momentum and how to use the one finish rule and focused time blocks to get back in control.
Less multi switching.
Less perfection.
More done.
Press play, finish 1 thing today and rebuild momentum fast.
That matches the actual content.
And it will convert because it speaks directly to the coach who feels busy but stuck.
If you want, we can sharpen it even more depending on whether your primary listener right now is new coaches or established coaches in a lull.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you are waiting to feel motivated before you take action, this episode will change how you move forward.
CSC turns 4 and Cathy shares what actually built the business. Not hype. Not hustle. Momentum. Small actions done consistently even on the days you do not feel ready.
You will hear why motivation is unreliable, how momentum builds self trust and the simple weekly rhythm Cathy has used for 4 years to keep showing up without burnout.
What you will walk away with:
• 1 momentum building focus for the week
• A small action you can complete on a low energy day
• A way to rebuild self trust through follow through
• Proof that consistency beats intensity every time
Press play if you are ready to stop waiting for motivation and start creating movement. 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If your coaching calendar has slowed down and you are stuck tweaking, planning or second guessing, this episode is your reset.
Cathy shows you how to stop chasing shiny objects and use a simple 3 step framework to create momentum fast: intention, constraint and next step. You will hear why “I do not know how” becomes a brick wall, how to run a 30 day hypothesis instead of overthinking and why your database is still your fastest path to clients.
What you will walk away with:
• 1 revenue moving focus for the month
• A clear offer line that invites replies
• A simple test and measure rhythm to build momentum
• The reminder that B plus action beats perfect planning
Press play if you want more conversations and more clients without overcomplicating it. 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If your goal is exciting on Sunday and terrifying on Monday, this episode is for you. We break down what to do when the wobbles hit and panic tries to take over.
You will learn a simple reset to calm your brain then turn your goal into micro steps you can actually follow through on. Less overwhelm. More momentum. Let’s go from Panic to Progress. 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Accountability does not have to feel heavy.
If you keep setting goals then ghosting your own calendar, this episode will help you rebuild self trust without pressure or shame.
Cathy Smith shares a simple weekly plan to stop last minute scrambling, follow through on your priorities and stay in motion even when your week goes sideways.
Small steps. Real momentum. More self trust. Pick 1 action and do it today. 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your to do list is not the plan.
In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith shows you why goals slip when you start with tasks instead of big rocks.
Using the big rocks jar idea plus a simple holiday planning analogy, you will learn how to zoom out to your 10 year goal, break it into 1 year, 90 day and weekly priorities then build a weekly plan that actually fits your life.
You will also hear how to create a clear income hypothesis so you know what actions matter most and stop getting lost in busy work.
Press play and plan your week with purpose so your goals stick past February 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New year, new goals? Not so fast.
Before you plan a single thing for 2026, do this 1 simple review. In Episode 328, Cathy Smith walks you through 10 powerful lessons to pull from 2025 so you stop repeating what did not work and double down on what actually did.
You will spot the habits and marketing moves that created momentum, the hidden drains that stole your time, and why you do not need more qualifications, more content, or perfect branding to get clients.
If you want 2026 to feel clearer, lighter, and more profitable, start here. Then pick 1 thing to focus on for the next 90 days and watch what happens. Listen now 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you secretly relieved 2025 is over, even if you are smiling through Christmas?
In Episode 327 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith gives you a simple end of year reset to help you stop the “I should have done more” spiral and see what you actually achieved. Whether 2025 was your best year yet or it fell short, this episode helps you reflect with honesty, pull out the lessons, and carry your momentum into 2026 without pressure.
You will learn a quick way to spot your real wins, even the quiet ones, plus a practical plan for staying visible over the holidays so you do not start January from scratch.
🎯 Give yourself grace and reset your mindset
🎯 Capture your wins and lessons with a simple review
🎯 Keep marketing light and consistent through the holiday season
🎯 Reconnect with past clients and warm contacts to build momentum for 2026
If you want 2026 to feel different, start here.
🎧 Listen now and reset your confidence for the new year.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you have been telling yourself you need a website, a funnel, or the perfect logo before you can earn real money as a coach, this episode is your wakeup call.
Cathy Smith sits down with Greg Kilwein from AttractWell to talk about the 3 things that actually create a profitable coaching business. Joy, simplicity and profits.
You will hear why busywork keeps coaches stuck, how to choose clients who value your work and can pay you well, and how to simplify your tech so you spend more time coaching and less time tinkering.
Plus, Greg shares a simple day audit you can use to cut stress, buy back your time and build a business that feels good to run.
Press play if you want more clients, more profit and way less overwhelm.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The year is flying by, which makes now one of the best times to reach out to past clients and warm prospects. In this episode, Cathy shows you how simple check ins and genuine conversations can refill your coaching roster for next year, so you are not starting from zero in January. Your next clients are already in your world, they just need a gentle nudge and a clear invitation.
Listen now 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feeling sick of AI, scared of it, or quietly curious?
Cathy Smith shows you how to use AI as a thinking partner to clean up your writing, plan workshops, streamline admin and spot patterns in your coaching work while you keep the human connection, lived experience and emotional intelligence that AI cannot touch.
Learn simple safety guidelines, how to avoid shiny tool overload and how to use AI to support your coaching business instead of replacing your coaching magic. Listen now 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your coaching is powerful. Your results are real. So why does your business still feel invisible
In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith unpacks why established coaches hit a feast and famine wall and how a repeatable marketing flow can keep clients coming even while you are fully booked.
You will hear how to check if your branding, pricing and message truly match, how to borrow your clients’ words to sharpen your marketing and why you cannot read the label from inside your own jar. If you want to be seen as the coach you already are, this one is for you.
Listen now 🎧
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you showing up flat online and wondering why your marketing is not landing?
In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith explains how your audience mirrors your energy and why forced, half hearted marketing quietly repels the very clients you want to attract.
You will learn simple ways to reset your energy before you market. Gratitude before you get out of bed, clearer boundaries, choosing the right day to create content, batching when you feel good, and speaking to just one person instead of trying to impress everyone. You will also hear how to keep your pipeline flowing so you are not stuck in feast and famine.
🎧 Stop dragging yourself through marketing. Start showing up as the confident coach you would hire. Listen to the full episode to find out more.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you holding back from emailing or posting because you fear you will annoy people?
In Episode 321 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith shows you how to reframe visibility as service and build trust through simple consistency. Learn how to use email with confidence, why unsubscribes are healthy, and how bot driven open rates can mislead your decisions. Discover the weekly touchpoints, subject line and preheader tactics, and light systems that keep your pipeline steady.
You will also hear how announcing open one to one spots and offers clearly helps the right clients put up their hand, and how a quick mindset check can remove fear bias and limiting beliefs that keep you quiet.
If your marketing feels stop start or exhausting, this episode is your reset.
🎯 Treat visibility as service
🎯 Send the email and show up on schedule
🎯 Speak to the right people and invite them in
Stop second guessing. Start making real connections and get real clients.
🎧 Listen now and discover how not to annoy your audience.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Think you have a coaching problem?
What you really have is a pipeline problem. In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith shows why so many coaches spend most of their time delivering and almost none building demand, then wonder why business feels like feast and famine. You will learn how to swap random posts and hope marketing for a simple growth infrastructure that attracts, nurtures, and converts your ideal clients on repeat.
We unpack the shift from freelancer to CEO, why consistency beats inspiration, and how to use email to create trust, educate prospects, and make clear offers without feeling salesy. Cathy walks through practical ideas for lead magnets, nurture points, visibility habits, and confident pricing so you can build a predictable flow of clients and spend more time coaching.
Ready to fix the pipeline for good, listen in? Join Cathy’s free Email ATM webinar and start building an engine you can rely on. Link in the show notes. Pick one tip, take action today and enjoy your journey.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What would happen if you stopped trying to please everyone?
Your business would grow. Your message would finally be heard.
In this powerful episode, Cathy Smith explores how seeking approval weakens your confidence, waters down your message, and keeps your dream clients from finding you.
Learn how to release the fear of judgment, speak with conviction and show up as the confident, authentic coach your audience has been waiting for. When you stop chasing validation, you make space for clarity, connection and growth.
🎧 Listen now and take your first step from approval to unstoppable confidence and business growth, get unstuck!.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You do not need another funnel or another shiny strategy. Your next client is already on your email list, quietly reading, nodding, and waiting for your offer.
In this episode, Cathy Smith reveals why coaches lose clients they already have, how to re-engage your list without feeling salesy, and the simple mindset shift that turns consistency into conversions.
If you have been avoiding your inbox or worrying about annoying people, this episode will show you how to reconnect, serve, and sell with confidence. Your Next Client Is Already on Your Email List so go and help them.
🎧 Listen now and discover the gold hidden in your own email list.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feeling like your coaching business has stalled? You are not alone.
In this episode, Cathy shares lessons from one of Australia’s biggest racing events - Bathurst, and how it mirrors the ups and downs of running a business. Discover when to pause, reset, and refocus so you can get back in control and back on track.
Learn how to identify what is working, stop what is not, and build your own winning pit crew to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Plus so much more, even if you are not a racing car fan!
Press play to get unstuck and reignite your momentum today.
🎧 Listen, learn and reach out.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you chasing shiny marketing trends while ignoring the gold already in your own backyard?
In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith reveals how one wellness coach filled her entire program with just two emails, no ads, no reels, no burnout.
Learn how to uncover the clients already in your world, reconnect with your network authentically, and turn your existing audience into consistent, paying clients.
🎧 Stop chasing. Start mining the gold you already have. Listen to the full episode to find out more.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you oversharing your story and underselling your coaching?
Many coaches believe their business must be built on past struggles. Clients do not need your whole origin story. They need to see the transformation you can create for them. The more you centre your business on struggle, the harder it becomes to step into your real power as a coach.
In this episode Cathy Smith reveals why sharing everything keeps you stuck, how to use only the right parts of your story, and the simple shifts that turn your business from draining to energising.
🎧 Listen now to discover how to reframe your story and attract clients without reliving your pain.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What if one sneaky thought is the only thing holding your coaching business back
You are not lazy. You are not unqualified. You might just be believing a thought that is not true and it is sabotaging your success
In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith unpacks how hidden beliefs shape your business results. You will hear real examples, simple mindset shifts, and how to build belief in your offer, your process, and yourself
🎧 Listen now to because you could be just 1 thought away from the breakthrough you have been waiting for.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You deliver value.
You explain the transformation.
Yet prospects still hesitate.
In Episode 313 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith unpacks the “iceberg effect” in your sales and marketing. Discover why showing only the surface keeps clients from saying yes and how to reveal the deeper fears, doubts, and desires that drive decisions.
You will hear how a small shift in one coach’s messaging turned confusion into clarity and opened the door to new clients and even an international speaking gig.
If you are tired of hearing “let me think about it,” this episode will show you how to paint a vivid picture that makes your offer irresistible.
🎧 Listen now and learn what really turns maybes into yeses.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What If You Became That Person?
What if you stopped breaking promises to yourself?
What if you said no when it mattered most?
What if you became the coach who does the hard things?
This episode will make you pause, rethink, and ask yourself the one question that could change your business forever.
🎧 Hit play and see what happens when you become that person.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why do so many coaches hesitate when it is time to ask? You deliver value, have great conversations, and build trust, yet freeze when it comes to asking for the sale. In Episode 311 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith uncovers the real reasons behind this fear and shows you how to overcome it.
You will discover:
• Why no is not rejection but a chance to learn
• How the Go for No approach leads to more yes
• Simple ways to handle objections with confidence
• Why momentum matters more than a perfect pitch
If you are ready to stop holding back, start asking with confidence, and finally hear more yes in your coaching business, this episode will give you the clarity and courage you need.
🎧 Listen now and change the way you ask forever.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever wanted to do something but just did not have the confidence to take the leap?
In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith explores why belief is often the missing ingredient in your coaching journey and how you can borrow it until you grow your own.
You will learn:
• Why clients often come to you to hold belief for them
• How anchors and rewards can strengthen your confidence
• The role of accountability in building momentum
• Simple ways to shift self talk that keeps you stuck
Through real client stories and practical examples, Cathy shows how belief can be the bridge between where you are and where you want to be.
🎧 Listen now and borrow the belief you need to move forward with confidence.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever feel stuck, even when you are doing all the things?
The truth is, it is not always lack of skill or knowledge holding you back.
It is the hidden patterns you repeat every day without even realising.
In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith uncovers the subtle habits, self-talk and comfort zone traps that keep coaches spinning their wheels. From the words you use with yourself, to the unfinished courses, to the conversations you avoid—these patterns shape your results more than you think.
If you want to break free from busy work, simplify your message, and finally create momentum in your coaching business, this is the episode you need.
Listen to episode 309 of Small Business Talk for Coaches and start rewriting your patterns for success.What are you waiting for do it now!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You can handle “It’s too expensive” in your sleep.
It is the objections you never hear that are quietly killing your sales.
In episode 308 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith reveals how unspoken doubts, hidden fears and silent hesitations can turn an excited yes into a disappearing act.
You will discover
• The subtle signs a client is holding back
• How to ask the right questions without feeling pushy
• A real life case study of a client who ghosted and how it could have been avoided
If you want to stop losing clients to the objections they never say out loud, this episode is your guide to spotting, surfacing and solving them before they cost you.
Hit play now and turn more maybes into yeses.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You know your stuff. You have done the training. You are showing up.
So why are clients still not saying yes?
Because trust is the missing piece.
It is not about fancy funnels or perfect posts. The Website that you haven't finished.
It is about how you show up, the confidence you bring, and whether people believe you can help them.
In episode 307, we unpack how to build trust before the sale, so your next client stops scrolling and starts saying yes. Listen now, follow these tips and stop spinning your wheels.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you trying to speak to everyone and connecting with no one?
In Episode 306 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith shares why vague marketing is keeping your coaching business stuck and how to fix it fast. Learn how to focus on one ideal person, speak their language, and solve one specific problem that leads to real results.
You will also hear a case study from a coach who discovered her ideal message by reflecting on one great client and how that clarity changed everything.
If your marketing feels exhausting or scattered, this episode is your reset.
🎯 Stop shouting into the crowd. Start making real connections and get real clients.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You opened your laptop full of hope. This week was going to be different. More focus, more action… but here you are again. No new clients. Still spinning your wheels.
In this episode, Cathy Smith gets real about why your coaching business is not growing – and it is not because you are a bad coach. It is because you are missing the one thing that matters most: clarity.
Cathy shares real-life client stories, practical questions to get unstuck, and the simple truth about why being "visible" is not enough. If your niche is fuzzy and your message is vague, you are confusing your audience and confused people do not buy.
It is time to stop tweaking your website and start speaking your client’s language and break the Groundhog Day cycle once and for all.
Your next client is waiting. Hit play now and make sure next Monday is not just a repeat of this one.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You do not need a funnel to get coaching clients. You need clarity, confidence and real conversations.
In episode 304 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith shares what actually works when you are starting or growing your coaching business. If you have been stuck thinking you need a website, email automation or the perfect funnel before taking action, this episode will be a breath of fresh air.
You will learn:
How overcomplicating your marketing keeps you hidden
Why early success comes from connection, not tech
Simple ways to build confidence and talk to the right people
Using relatable stories and straight-talking advice, Cathy shows you how to move forward without getting lost in learning mode. If you are ready to stop waiting and start coaching, this episode will show you what to do first.
🎧 Listen now and take the first step towards a business that brings in real clients.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What do you say when someone asks, “What do you do?”
Do you hesitate or confidently reply, “I’m a coach”?
In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith shares a light-hearted story of mistaken identity that leads to a powerful reflection on how you show up in your business. If you struggle to own your title or find yourself downplaying what you do, this episode will help you shift that.
🎯 Ready to stop playing small?
Listen now to episode 303 Small Business Talk for Coaches boost your confidence and start showing up like the coach you truly are.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You are posting every day, sharing value, offering tips, and still hearing crickets. What gives? In this episode 302 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith reveals the surprising reason your content is not landing with the right people. It is not about working harder. It is about being clearer.
Through real client stories and hard won lessons, you will learn why being helpful is not the same as being effective. Cathy shows you how to shift from generic advice to content that actually connects, builds trust, and brings in clients. If your message feels scattered, if you are trying to talk to everyone and end up resonating with no one, this episode is your reset button.
Learn how to stop blending in and start standing out by applying one simple rule that changes everything.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
🎯 Are you doing all the right things… but still not seeing results in your coaching business?
In this follow-up to our milestone 300th episode, Cathy Smith shares coaching tips 16–30 to help you build a thriving business that actually works. From knowing your numbers to treating your business like a business, these practical tips will help you focus, get visible, and take real action.
If you are serious about turning your passion into profit, this episode is your next step.
💡 Pick one tip. Take action. Your future coaching business will thank you.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We Made It to the Top 100 Podcasts and 300 Episodes 🎉
This milestone episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches is a celebration of how far we have come 300 episodes strong and recognised as one of the Top 100 Small Business Podcasts and Top 40 Australian Business Podcasts, lovely anniversary present.
Join Cathy as she shares 15 powerful tips for building a thriving coaching business, from finding clarity and pricing for transformation to building trust and confidence. This episode is packed with value, insights, and inspiration to keep you moving forward.
Whether you are just starting or feeling stuck, there is a tip in here for you.
Tune in, take action, and help us celebrate 300 episodes of Small Business Talk for Coaches.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Overthinking. Scattered focus. No idea where to start.
This episode is your cue to reset. Whether you are overwhelmed or just feeling off track, you will walk away with clarity, direction, and renewed energy to move your coaching business forward.
Expect lightbulb moments, gentle mindset shifts, and practical insight that actually sticks.
Stop spinning your wheels. Start with one thing.
Listen now and get unstuck.
Listen to Small Business Talk for Coaches episode 299 now.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Imagine if you could see your coaching future as clearly as the plot of your favourite movie. In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy dives deep into the power of visualising your future coaching business, using everything from movies like Paycheck and The Matrix to proven planning strategies. Discover how to design a future that feels tangible, make decisions with confidence, and finally leave behind that cycle of shiny object syndrome. Want to know how to step into the CEO role of your own coaching success? Tune in now and unlock the path to your thriving coaching business. Listen to Small Business Talk for Coaches Episode 298
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“I want to think about it” is rarely the real reason they are not saying yes. Want to know what actually stops coaching clients from committing?
In this episode 297 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith unpacks the hidden reasons behind those frustrating client objections. If you have ever heard “It’s too expensive” or “I need to talk to someone,” it might not be about price at all.
You will learn:
- Why unclear pricing can sabotage your sales
- How mismatched messaging confuses your clients
- The importance of aligning your offer with your ideal audience
Using a car alignment metaphor, Cathy walks you through how to assess and realign your coaching offer so it feels clear, valuable, and tailored to the right clients. If your calendar is filled with “maybes” instead of “yeses,” this episode is your tune up guide.
🎧 Listen now and discover what to shift so your next coaching client says, “I’m in.”
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It is not what you say. It is how you show up.
You can have the perfect pitch, polished posts, and the best coaching tools—but if your presence lacks confidence, your audience will not believe in you.
In this episode, Cathy Smith unpacks why presence, not perfection, is what attracts clients. Learn how to build trust, show up authentically, and get visible before you feel fully ready. Whether you are quiet or bold, new or experienced, this episode will help you shift from hiding to leading.
Confidence converts. Presence builds trust. Ready to be seen, listen this episode now.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feeling overwhelmed trying to grow your coaching business? In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith shares why trying to do everything yourself is holding you back and what to do instead.
From outsourcing your first task to finding the right kind of support (coach, mentor, or systems), you will hear practical tips and personal stories to help you stop spinning and start growing. You do not have to do it all alone.
🎧 Why solo is not sustainable
🧠 Mindset traps keeping you stuck
📋 Simple ways to get support, even on a budget
If you are tired of doing it all and still not seeing results, this episode will show you a better way. Listen now and take the pressure off.
You are building a business, not a on -person circus.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Worried about being judged?
Spoiler alert: You already are.
In episode 294, Cathy shares a refreshingly honest take on judgment in business. Whether it is Apple vs Android or Ford vs Holden, the truth is clear, not everyone will like you, and that is exactly how it should be.
From joining a marketing program (yes, even with 30 years of experience) to embracing polarising opinions, Cathy unpacks why being judged is not the problem. Trying to avoid it is.
If you are ready to stop watering down your message and start standing out, this episode is your permission slip to show up fully and unapologetically.
🎧 Listen now and take the first step toward being visible, not just busy.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What if the only thing holding you back... is a thought?
You already have the knowledge. The skills. Even the passion. So why does growing your coaching business still feel so hard? It is not strategy that is stopping you—it is self-doubt disguised as logic.
In Episode 293 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, we uncover how sneaky thoughts like “I need more time” or “What if no one signs up?” can paralyse your progress. These hidden patterns keep you stuck, second-guessing yourself, and avoiding the very actions that lead to clients.
This episode will help you break free from hesitation, take confident steps forward, and finally start building the business you know you are meant for. You know more than you think. Listen now.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is your fear of feeling salesy keeping you stuck?
Many coaches hold back from showing up online, worried they will come across as fake, pushy or just not good enough. The result? Potential clients never get the chance to find you.
How to Be Seen Without Feeling Salesy
In Episode 292, we unpack the mindset blocks and myths that keep coaches invisible. You will discover simple, sustainable ways to show up as your true self, without dancing on reels or posting every day.
Learn how to pick the right platform, be consistent without burning out and build real connections that lead to clients.
It is time to stop hiding and start showing up – your way.
Listen now and find a visibility strategy that actually feels good.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
AI is not the enemy, but bad content might be. In episode 291, Cathy Smith draws an unexpected (but unforgettable) comparison between the horse poop crisis of the 1890s and today’s AI generated noise. Just like the automobile changed the game, AI is reshaping how coaches create and share content.
Discover how to use AI as a powerful assistant without losing your voice, sounding like everyone else, or falling into the trap of “copy paste” coaching content.
You will learn:
- How to train AI to write in your style
- Why some AI content fails and what to do instead
- Practical ways to use AI for content, coaching, and admin
- What red flags to avoid so your content still sounds human
If you are using AI (or thinking about it), do not miss this one. It might just save your reputation… and your clients’ attention.
Don't be saying, "Your content smells like horse poo, and blaming the Robots. Listen now to get all the tips.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sick of feeling like you are pushing your coaching business uphill? If reaching out feels awkward and the right clients are nowhere in sight, this episode is your wake-up call.
Cathy Smith reveals why chasing clients does not work and what to do instead. You will hear how to flip the script and become the coach clients seek out, without pretending to be someone you are not or using sleazy sales tactics.
If you have ever thought, “There has to be a better way to grow my business,” this is the episode for you. Get ready to feel confident, clear, and in control of your client flow.
Stop Chasing Clients. Attract Them Instead
Press play and stop chasing. Start attracting.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you struggling to take action even when you know exactly what you should be doing?
You are not lazy. You are likely stuck in fear, overwhelmed or confused. Mindset coach Nan Saysana joins Cathy to unpack the real reasons behind procrastination and how to finally move past it.
From coaching with The Life Coach School to running her own successful business in Paris, Nan shares powerful and practical tools to help you take action when it counts. Discover why awareness is the first step, how to work with your brain not against it, and how future you can become your biggest motivator.
Get ready for honest stories, mindset shifts and a fresh perspective on what it really takes to show up, stay consistent and keep moving forward. One small step at a time.
🎧 Press play if you are done putting things off. You will walk away with clarity, confidence, and real strategies that you can use today.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your environment could be the silent factor holding your coaching business back.
From your physical workspace to your digital presence and even your daily routines, everything around you shapes how you show up for your clients. In this episode, Cathy explores the powerful impact of your surroundings and mindset on your ability to coach effectively and grow your business. You will hear real life examples, practical tips, and a few hard truths about boundaries, structure, and digital clutter that may be draining your energy without you realising it.
Is Your Environment Helping or Hurting Your Coaching Business?
If you have ever struggled with focus, consistency, or feeling like your coaching business just is not flowing, this episode is your reset button, listen now.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you stuck wondering where your next coaching client will come from?
You are not alone. In this episode, Cathy Smith shares why clarity is the missing piece that is stopping clients from finding you. Learn how the Rule of One helps you refine your message, connect with the right audience and finally stand out. If you are ready to attract more clients and grow your coaching business, tune in now to Episode 287 of Small Business Talk for Coaches.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you feel like you are not good enough, even when you have the skills and experience? That voice telling you that you are not ready or qualified is imposter syndrome. It affects 70 percent of adults and is especially common among coaches. The truth is, imposter syndrome is lying to you.
In episode 286 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, we explore how imposter syndrome stops coaches from growing their businesses. It can show up as undercharging, overworking, or avoiding opportunities. Learn how to recognise these patterns, shift your mindset, and take action with confidence. You do not need to be perfect to succeed. Listen now.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you unknowingly holding your coaching business back? Many coaches struggle with visibility, fearing rejection, perfectionism or simply not knowing how to put themselves out there. If potential clients cannot find you, they cannot work with you.
Are You Playing Too Small? The Hidden Cost of Staying Invisible
In episode 285, we uncover the real cost of playing small. Missed opportunities, lost income and stunted growth. Learn how to break free from limiting beliefs, build confidence and step into the spotlight. It is time to stop hiding and start attracting the clients you deserve.
Listen now and take your first step towards being seen, heard and successful.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is AI Killing Your Human Touch or Helping You Thrive? AI is everywhere, from chatbots to content creation, but does using it mean losing your authenticity? In this episode, we explore how coaches can use AI without compromising their personal touch. Learn how to streamline your workflow, boost creativity and save time while keeping your unique voice at the forefront.
Discover how AI can be your brainstorming partner, writing assistant and even a role-play coach for tough conversations. Find out how automation tools can help with scheduling, emails and content repurposing so you can focus on what truly matters, serving your clients.
Do not let technology take over your business. Take control, use AI the right way and stay ahead. Listen now and start using AI to grow your coaching practice without losing what makes you unique.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Struggling to bounce back after a setback?
Whether it is a slow period, a tough client, or a personal challenge, setbacks are inevitable. The key is knowing how to recover and keep moving forward. In episode283 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, we dive into The Resilience Reset. Listen forpractical strategies to help you regain momentum, stay motivated, and turn obstacles into opportunities.
From navigating difficult conversations to managing business slumps, you will learn actionable steps to strengthen your resilience and keep your coaching business thriving.
Tune in now and reset your resilience and learn how to bounce back!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What if your next clients were already looking for you, but no one was sending them your way? Referrals are the fastest way to grow a coaching business, yet most coaches rely on hope instead of a real strategy. People will not refer you just because you do a good job. They need a reason, and they need to know exactly who you help.
Episode 282, we dive into the hidden psychology of referrals and why they are more powerful than any paid marketing strategy. You will learn how to make your services referral-worthy, how to position yourself so people instantly think of you when the right opportunity comes up, and how to turn past clients into your biggest advocates. If you have ever wondered why some coaches seem to get endless recommendations while others struggle to get noticed, this episode will give you the answers.
Stop waiting for referrals to happen and start creating a system that brings clients straight to you. Download now and check it out.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You Can’t See Me… And That’s the Problem!
If nobody sees you, how can they work with you? Visibility is one of the biggest challenges coaches face. In this episode, we explore how to get seen, overcome the fear of judgment, and stop waiting for perfection.
Cathy Smith shares her journey from hiding behind notes to speaking with confidence. She gives practical steps to step into the spotlight without feeling salesy or overwhelmed. Whether it is social media, networking, or public speaking, you will learn simple actions to attract more clients.
If fear, imposter syndrome, or self-doubt have been keeping you stuck, this episode is for you. Listen now and take the first step toward being visible, confident, and irresistible to your ideal clients. The visibility breakthrough, how to get seen and get clients, listen now and find out.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The One Thing That Might Be Holding Your Coaching Business Back…
You are putting in the work, taking action, and staying busy, but are you actually moving in the right direction?
In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith shares a powerful insight that could change the way you approach your coaching business. It is a lesson learned from years of experience, countless conversations, and a surprising realisation in the heart of the city.
If you have ever felt like you are working hard but not seeing the results you want, this episode is for you.
🔗 Hit play now and discover what might be standing between you and the success you are chasing!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is your year already feeling overwhelming? Are you struggling to say no without feeling guilty? It’s time to hit reset and take control because setting clear boundaries is the key to avoiding burnout and staying focused on what matters.
In Episode 279, we ask: Has your year started well? Or have you fallen into the trap of overcommitting? Today, Cathy explores the importance of boundaries, how to set them, stick to them, and say no without guilt. Neglecting your own needs can lead to burnout and stress, but with clear communication and a commitment to your "why," you can stay focused on what matters most.
🎧 Listen now and start shaping a year that works for you.
Remember, boundaries are not barriers, they are tools for success.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are Your Goals Just Dreams on Paper? Let’s Make Them Happen!
In Episode 278 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, we dive into 5 actionable ways to turn your goals into reality. Cathy Smith shares practical strategies like prioritising your time, building a resilient mindset, and leveraging support systems to stay on track. Whether you are struggling to follow through or looking for that extra push to start, this episode is packed with tips to help you make 2025 your most productive year yet.
👉 Tune in for real world examples and simple steps to stop procrastinating and start achieving. Coaches, it is time to prioritise your own success!
🎧 Hit play and take the first step towards crushing your goals today!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unlock Your 2025 Goals with SMART and "Dumb" Strategies!
Ready to make 2025 your most successful year yet? Are you using goal sticking? In episode 277 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith dives into effective goal setting strategies, including SMART goals and the exciting concept of "dumb" goals, inspired by Brendan Bouchard. Learn how to break your big rocks into actionable steps, reflect on past wins and challenges, and make your goals stick with practical time management tips.
Whether you are just starting your coaching journey or looking to take your business to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable advice to set you up for success. Tune in now and make 2025 your year of abundance.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Start 2025 by reflecting on your journey with us. Happy New Year from Small Business Talk for Coaches. In this episode, we revisit lessons from travel, resilience, and self care, shared from a charming villa in Meta, Italy. Discover how downtime can fuel growth, why self-care is vital for coaches, and how to kickstart the year with clarity. Grab your favourite drink and tune in for inspiration to set the tone for a successful year.
Download episode 276 to come on this journey now. Come on a journey with me, are you game?
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ready to turn your holiday downtime into a powerful launchpad for 2025? Join Cathy as she reveals how to reflect on 2024, uncover hidden wins, and amplify what works. Learn to avoid common pitfalls, balance self-care with strategy, and stay visible to your audience—even during the holidays. Start your journey to a thriving new year with clarity, purpose, and actionable insights you can use right now!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you ready to make 2025 the year your coaching business thrives? In this episode, Cathy Smith dives into practical strategies to help you hit the ground running. Learn how to define your niche, build trust with clients, and set up systems that work for you. Cathy also shares tips on setting boundaries and prioritising self-care to ensure you stay balanced while growing your business.
This is your step by step guide to starting the year with clarity, confidence, and momentum.
🎧 Hit play now and discover how to set yourself up for success in 2025.
Do not forget to follow Small Business Talk for Coaches so you never miss an episode! 💡
Now enjoy episode 274 of Small Business Talk for Coaches.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How has 2024 shaped the coaching industry? In episode 273, Cathy reflects on the key trends, challenges, and opportunities that defined the year, from the rise of digital-first strategies and AI to the growing emphasis on emotional intelligence and niching.
Discover how you can leverage these shifts to stand out in a competitive market, build deeper connections with your ideal clients, and prepare your coaching business for success in 2025.
If you are ready to learn from this year’s lessons and set the stage for an even better year ahead, episode 273 of Small Business Talk for Coaches is a must-listen. Tune in now and get inspired to take your coaching practice to the next level.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why do some people seem to get ahead while others struggle, even when they work just as hard? In this episode, Cathy explores the key factors that separate success from stagnation. Learn how mindset, habits, and accountability can transform your coaching practice and your life. Cathy shares practical tips from The ONE Thing and Tiny Habits to help you take action, overcome perfectionism, and start seeing real results.
If you have ever felt stuck or wondered what makes the difference between thriving and just getting by, listen to episode 272 of Small Business Talk for Coaches for these tips and more. Listen now and set yourself up for success in 2025.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Think no one wants coaching at this time of year? Think again. This is the perfect moment to help your clients plan for change and tackle their goals.
In Episode 271 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith challenges the seasonal mindset of slowing down and shows why the lead-up to the new year is a golden opportunity for coaches. As clients reflect on the past year and plan for the future, they are ready for guidance to create meaningful change. Cathy shares strategies to simplify your messaging, focus on client results, and make the most of this high-impact season. Whether it is addressing overwhelm, structuring offers, or staying visible, this episode is packed with tips to help you and your clients finish the year strong. Tune in now to discover why "don't stop" is the mantra for this season.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rejection can sting, especially when it feels personal. In episode 270 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith shares how to reframe rejection, build confidence, and turn every "no" into a stepping stone for growth. From must-read books like Go for No! to mindset shifts and actionable tips, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you handle rejection like a pro and keep moving toward your coaching business goals. Do not let fear hold you back. Discover how to embrace rejection and thrive!
Listen now and take the first step towards building a resilient mindset and unstoppable coaching business.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you stuck, struggling to stay consistent, or unsure of the next steps for your coaching business? In this episode, we break down how a business coach can help you reach new heights, whether it’s filling in skill gaps, providing accountability, or challenging you to think differently. Learn how the right support can help you achieve your biggest goals, avoid common pitfalls, and build a coaching business that thrives.
Listen to episode 269 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, How the right business coach can unlock success for your coaching business to find out more.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Struggling to balance your passion for coaching with self-care? Discover practical tips to set boundaries, prevent burnout, and keep showing up at your best."
In Episode 268 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith dives into the essential topic of self care for coaches. From setting healthy boundaries and avoiding overextension to creating small daily rituals that build resilience, Cathy shares valuable insights on staying centred and balanced. Learn why taking care of yourself isn’t just self preservation, it’s key to serving your clients effectively. Whether it’s finding time for breaks, setting limits on client access, or cultivating personal support systems, this episode will help you thrive both personally and professionally. Listen now it might be the break you need.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Transform your coaching passion into a business that thrives – with the simple foundations you need to build a profitable, fulfilling practice!
In episode 267 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith chats with Tamara Simon, the “Bob the Builder” of small business, to reveal the essentials of building a sustainable coaching business. Using her “Five Little Business Pigs” framework, Tamara offers practical strategies to help coaches master systems, embrace change, and simplify their approach. Whether you are a solo coach or growing a team, this episode is packed with insights to help you build a business you truly love. Download and listen today.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Struggling to land your first coaching client? You’re not alone! In episode 266 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith dives into the common pitfalls keeping coaches stuck and reveals simple strategies to get noticed and build momentum. If you are ready to attract clients and grow your business, don’t miss this episode, packed with practical insights to help you kickstart your journey today. What are you waiting for hit play now.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever wonder how your thoughts might be impacting your success? In episode 264 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, we dive into the power of reframing and how changing your mindset can help you achieve more. Get practical tips to overcome self-doubt and take control of your thinking so you can build the coaching business you've always dreamed of.
Tune in now and start your journey to a stronger mindset and a thriving coaching business today!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you walking the talk? In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, we ask the tough question: why don’t you have a coach? As a coach, you already know the power of goal setting, accountability, and support. So, what’s holding you back from investing in your own growth? We dive into common excuses like “It’s too expensive” or “I can coach myself” and explore why even the best athletes rely on multiple coaches to succeed. From mindset to business development, having a coach is crucial for your own success and setting an example for your clients.
Tune in to discover why every coach needs a coach and how it can take your business to the next level!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do your words really show the passion behind your coaching? In this episode, Cathy Smith sits down with copywriting expert Simone Robinson to uncover how you can write copy that authentically conveys your story and connects deeply with your audience.
Simone shares why telling your personal story is key to establishing credibility and creating a genuine connection with potential clients. Learn powerful tips for creating hooks that grab attention, writing from your heart without feeling like you're bragging, and using testimonials to build trust.
If you want your copy to stand out and truly reflect your passion, this is an episode you can't miss. Tune in now to Small Business Talk for Coaches Podcast and start transforming your messaging to attract the clients who need you most!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you struggling to get potential clients to say "yes"? It’s not your coaching, it’s their doubts! In this episode, Cathy Smith reveals the top reason people hesitate to invest in coaching and how you can quickly change their minds.
Want to know the secret to building instant trust and connection? Cathy shares practical strategies that will get clients excited to work with you. Plus, a powerful tool you are probably not using to its full potential!
Curious? Don’t miss this game-changing episode—tune into episode 262 now and take your coaching business to the next level!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you tired of juggling everything in your coaching business? In this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith teams up with systems guru David Jenyns to reveal how coaches like you can streamline operations, save time, and finally focus on what matters—growing your business. Learn the step-by-step process to create simple systems that help you delegate tasks, boost efficiency, and scale without stress. If you're ready to free up your time and take your coaching to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable tips just for you. Listen now to episode 261 and start streamlining your business today!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unlock your potential and stop holding yourself back! In episode 260 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy dives deep into how limiting beliefs may be hindering your coaching success. Learn how to overcome self-sabotage, tackle those nagging doubts, and embrace the opportunities that come your way. With real-life examples and actionable tips, Cathy shares how to reframe negative thoughts and turn them into wins. Whether you’re a new coach or an experienced professional, this episode will inspire you to push past your fears and take your business to the next level. Download now and start conquering those limiting beliefs today.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Building a Personal Brand as a Coach, in episode 259, Cathy Smith sits down with branding expert Lauren Clemett to dive into the essential steps for coaches to build a powerful personal brand. Lauren shares practical advice on how to stand out in a crowded marketplace, leverage your unique strengths, and position yourself for success. Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your coaching practice, this episode will give you the tools to align your brand with your true purpose, attract the right clients, and stay focused on your goals. Don't miss this insightful conversation, filled with actionable tips to help you build a thriving coaching business.
Hit play and start building your personal brand today!
Subscribe now so you never miss an episode, and share it with a fellow coach who needs this advice!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever wondered how to leave a meaningful legacy through your coaching business? In this episode, Cathy Smith dives into what it takes to build a legacy that goes beyond just your day-to-day work. From making a transformative impact on your clients’ lives to setting up sustainable systems that ensure your business thrives long after you’ve stepped back, this episode is packed with insights on how to create the legacy you want.
Whether you are thinking about your long term goals or just getting started, this conversation will help you shape the future of your coaching practice. Don’t miss episode 258 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Creating a Lasting Legacy Through Coaching—tune in now!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feeling overwhelmed and stressed? You’re not alone. In this episode, Cathy Smith dives into practical strategies to help entrepreneurs and coaches prevent burnout. Learn how to balance your work and life, manage time effectively, and protect your mental well-being. Discover how to set boundaries, overcome imposter syndrome, and build a sustainable coaching practice. Don’t let burnout hold you back—tune in now to stay at the top of your game!
Full shownotes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 257.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever wonder how to keep your coaching business strong during tough times? You are not alone. Economic uncertainty can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be a roadblock. In episode 256 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, delves into actionable strategies to help you thrive.
Learn how to position yourself as the go-to expert, manage your cash flow effectively, and leverage technology to work smarter, not harder. Plus, discover how to keep clients engaged and explore new revenue streams. Shift your mindset, build resilience, and turn challenges into opportunities. Ready to future-proof your coaching business? Listen now!
Full shownotes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 256.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Worried about AI taking over your coaching practice? You’re not alone. Cathy Smith uncovers the growing concerns around AI, sharing real-life examples of how relying too much on it can backfire as it did for some at a recent awards night. But before you ditch AI altogether, learn how to make it work for you without losing your authentic voice.
Get insider tips on using AI as your secret weapon—without letting it take control. This episode is packed with practical advice and thought-provoking insights that every coach needs to hear. Curious?
Episode 255 of Small Business Talk for Coaches is one that you can't afford to miss.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Struggling to connect with your coaching clients? In episode 254 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, I explore why your message might not resonate and how to improve it. With over two decades of marketing experience, I share expert advice on crafting engaging messages.
I highlight the importance of emotional intelligence, targeting the right audience, and adjusting your style to suit their needs. Building trust is key, and I offer practical tips on creating clear, empathetic messages. If you're hesitant about using video, I explain how it can build trust and provide tips for getting started.
Did you know simplifying complex messages and listening to client feedback is a powerful way of refining your messaging?
Don't miss Episode 254 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, tune in now and start transforming your communication strategy today!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever felt that you are not good at selling? You are not alone. Many coaches love helping their clients but struggle with the idea of selling. In episode 253 of Small Business Talk for Coaches we explore how to reframe selling as serving. Learn how to sell from the heart, share compelling stories, and add value without giving too much away. Transform your mindset and build confidence in your sales approach. Tune in to discover practical tips to make selling feel natural and authentic. Ready to boost your coaching business? Listen now!
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 253
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does jet lag on long-haul flights have to do with setting your clients up for failure? In Episode 252 of 'Small Business Talk for Coaches,' we explore how your business or coaching practices might unknowingly hinder your clients' success.
Tune in now for this eye-opening discussion that could transform your coaching practice. Don’t miss it!
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 252
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join Cathy Smith as she takes you on a journey through her recent travels across Europe and shares five key coaching lessons inspired by her experiences. Discover how flexibility, embracing new perspectives, building strong connections, appreciating skills, and self-awareness can elevate your coaching practice.
Tune in for real-life travel stories, practical tips, and a fresh perspective on turning your coaching passion into a thriving business. Whether you're a new or seasoned coach, this episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches offers actionable advice and inspiration to enhance your coaching journey.
Listen now to episode 251 Travel Inspired Coaching Lessons from Italy and Beyond.
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 251
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jump into the latest episode of 'Small Business Talk for Coaches - episode 250' where Cathy Smith delivers seven powerful tips directly from our engaging Monday Lives series! This episode is packed with essential strategies to turbocharge your coaching business, covering innovative marketing techniques beyond social media, the power of adaptability, and how to engage without being salesy. Discover how to achieve a harmonious work-life balance and effectively connect with your clients using authentic communication. Whether you're looking for fresh insights or actionable advice, Episode 249 is a must-listen for every coach aiming to elevate their practice. Tune in now for a transformative experience and start applying these standout strategies today!
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 250
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cybersecurity is something we all like and will never happen to us. Listen to Cybersecurity expert Caitriona Forde to discover vital strategies to safeguard your business from cyber threats in our enlightening discussion on cyber awareness training. Learn how to identify phishing scams, secure your emails, and create human firewalls within your organisation. Cait brings over 20 years of IT and cybersecurity experience, providing essential tips to protect your small to medium-sized business from the ever-evolving risks of the digital world. Don’t miss this crucial episode 249 of Small Business Talk for Coaches to strengthen your defences against cyber attacks and ensure your business’s online security.
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 249.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unlock strategic insights with Episode 248 of 'Small Business Talk' featuring Angela Henderson! Dive into an enlightening conversation about boosting your business income with 5 powerful strategies. Learn from Angela’s extensive experience in balancing business energies and discover why alignment in your offerings and personal energy is crucial for success. Explore practical steps for enhancing visibility, optimizing your product offerings, and ensuring your business operations and marketing are perfectly aligned with your goals. Don't miss these invaluable tips designed to escalate your business revenue and growth. Tune in now to transform these insights into lucrative actions!
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 248.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unlock the finale of our '24 Business Tips for Coaches' series with Episode 247 of 'Small Business Talk for Coaches'. This episode wraps up our comprehensive guide with the last set of actionable tips to refine your coaching business. Discover strategies for effective budgeting, tax planning, and asking for help when you need it. Learn how to update your database, consider modern buying methods, and hire the right people to support your growth. Tune in now for valuable insights that will transform your practice and enhance your professional journey. Don't miss this essential episode—it's packed with the final pieces you need to complete your toolkit for success!
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 247.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Advance your coaching skills with Episode 246 of 'Small Business Talk for Coaches'! In the second part of our '24 Business Tips' series, we delve into new strategies to enhance client relationships, harness technology, and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Explore how personalized coaching and innovative tech solutions can dramatically improve your practice's efficiency and impact. Tune in now for essential tactics that will empower you and your coaching business to thrive in a competitive landscape!
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 246.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unlock the secrets to skyrocketing your coaching business with Episode 245 of 'Small Business Talk for Coaches'! Dive into our '24 Business Tips' series, beginning with part one, filled with expert strategies and practical advice. Learn to connect deeply with your target audience, refine your marketing techniques, enhance customer interactions, and strengthen your digital presence. Discover the transformative power of effective social media planning and the dynamic impact of video content. Tune in now for essential insights that will elevate your coaching practice to new heights!
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 243.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you ready to transform your coaching approach by mastering the art of curiosity? Tune in to Small Business Talk for Coaches episode 244 to learn how a simple question can make all the difference! We explore the importance of curiosity and the impact of asking the right questions. Cathy shares inspiring stories about understanding when to offer help and when to hold back, highlighting how these moments relate to effective coaching. Discover how shifting your mindset and challenging limiting beliefs can open new pathways for growth, both for you and your clients. Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 244.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unlock the secret to coaching success with Episode 243 of 'Small Business Talk for Coaches.' Learn the transformative 'One Rule' strategy that simplifies targeting and maximises impact. In this episode, Cathy Smith delve's into how focusing on one person, one problem, and one solution can drastically improve your coaching effectiveness and messaging clarity. Explore practical tips on honing your approach to resonate deeply with your clients and drive tangible results. Don’t miss out on this essential guide to mastering specificity in your coaching business.
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 243.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cathy is the guest today. Join Darren Saul for his interview with Cathy, a renowned marketing expert and coach, on Small Business Talk for Coaches episode 242. Cathy reveals how coaching differs from consulting and shares actionable strategies for turning your coaching skills into a thriving business. Don't miss her insights on the challenges new coaches face and how to overcome them.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever considered making the leap from a corporate career to entrepreneurship? In Episode 241 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith is joined by Carmen Sederino from Illuminated Story, who shares her journey from the corporate world to starting her own business. This episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of transitioning to entrepreneurship with practical tips on lead generation, maintaining passion, and strategically managing your business. Ideal for coaches looking to transform their coaching skills into a thriving business, this episode provides the insights and inspiration you need to succeed.
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 241.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tune into Episode 240 of Small Business Talk for Coaches as we explore the power of focus in 'Minutes Matter.' Learn how to harness your productivity before a holiday rush and apply these techniques to everyday tasks. Discover tools and tricks to optimise your schedule and improve efficiency. Don't miss next week's sneak peek transitioning from corporate to coaching in Episode 241!
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discover the keys to coaching success on episode 239 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, 'The Key to Coaching Success.' Learn effective strategies to get noticed, from in-person interactions to powerful online presence, and hear top tips on active listening and showcasing your coaching capabilities. Tune in to unlock the secrets of transforming your coaching passion into a thriving business.
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 239.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever wonder what truly motivates people to make a purchase? In Episode 238 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith explores the psychology of buying, including audience understanding, buying journey stages, and the powerful impact of emotion. This episode is a must-listen for coaches eager to refine their approach and connect more effectively with potential clients.
Full show notes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 238.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 237, titled "How to Manage then Remove Your Negative Beliefs," Cathy Smith joins mindset coach Anne McKeown to explore the transformation from self-doubt to empowerment. They dive into effective techniques for positive thinking and share insights on rewriting your personal and professional narrative. This episode provides a roadmap to overcoming your negative beliefs and unlocking your full potential. Tune in for an empowering session with Cathy and Anne, and start your journey to a more confident you.
Full shownotes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 237.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Explore "Beyond Your Circle: Strategies to Grow Your Coaching Audience" in Episode 236. Unlock the secrets to reaching beyond your immediate network with Cathy Smith's expert guidance on using podcasts, newsletters, and workshops effectively. Delve into authentic engagement techniques that offer real value to your prospective clients. This episode is a goldmine for coaches looking to broaden their audience and amplify their impact.
Full Shownotes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 236.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this transformative episode of "Small Business Talk for Coaches," Cathy Smith is joined by Zach Carlin, a multifaceted coach with a rich background in professional sports, entrepreneurship, and executive leadership coaching. Together, they unravel the complexities of effective coaching conversations, offering a treasure trove of insights for coaches aiming to deepen their impact and connect more authentically with their clients.
Discover the essence of genuine curiosity and the power of caring as Zach emphasises the foundational role these elements play in fostering meaningful coaching relationships. Learn the innovative concept of communicating in the third person for enhanced understanding and connection, and explore the delicate balance of choosing words that resonate, particularly with clients facing self-esteem challenges.
Zach shares his unique journey from athlete to coaching expert, revealing the pivotal lessons learned along the way and how they inform his current practice. This episode is not just about the mechanics of coaching but about finding and honing your unique voice and approach in the coaching space.
Whether you are just embarking on your coaching journey or seeking to refine your existing practice, this episode provides valuable strategies and real-world advice for making every coaching conversation count.
Tune into Episode 235 of "Small Business Talk for Coaches" with Cathy Smith and guest Zach Carlin for an enlightening discussion on elevating your coaching conversations and transforming client interactions.
Go to Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 235 for all the show notes and links.
Coaches are you looking to build a thriving business? Go to Coaches Marketing Roadmap for resources, the book and the program.
Small Business Talk For Coaches. This podcast is the ultimate resource for coaches looking to transform their coaching passion into a thriving business.
Small Business Talk for Coaches with Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dive into Episode 234 as we explore the pivotal shift from obsessing over 'how' to focusing on 'where' you want your business to go. Uncover the power of setting clear goals and the transformative impact of prioritizing your destination over the methodology. This episode challenges the conventional approach to achieving success, inviting listeners to rethink their strategies and embrace flexibility in their journey to greatness. Join us for insightful discussions on overcoming obstacles, the significance of your 'why', and crafting a path that aligns with your ultimate aspirations.
Full Shownotes at Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 234.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From Coach to CEO - Mastering Business Mindset with Cathy Smith. In Episode 233 of "Small Business Talk for Coaches," Cathy Smith delves into the pivotal shift from seeing yourself merely as a coach to embracing the role of a CEO or business owner of your coaching enterprise. Through compelling insights, Cathy illuminates the journey of transforming coaching passion into a thriving business, underlining the importance of strategic thinking, financial management, and operational efficiency.
Navigating the CEO Mindset: Cathy explores how transitioning from a coaching to a CEO mindset involves more than just a title change. It requires a deep dive into strategic business planning, cash flow management, and the art of juggling client satisfaction with business growth.
Strategic Operations and Marketing: Learn how to balance coaching responsibilities with crucial business operations. Cathy offers practical advice on automating marketing efforts, scheduling content, and developing a marketing plan that aligns with your business goals, ensuring a steady flow of clients without the feast-or-famine cycles.
Financial Wisdom: Emphasising the critical role of cash flow, Cathy shares insights into smart financial practices, like the Profit First method, to help you manage your earnings wisely and sustainably grow your business.
The Art of Delegation: Discover the power of outsourcing tasks that don't play to your strengths, particularly bookkeeping and administrative duties, allowing you to focus on what you do best: coaching.
Maintaining Personal Touch: Even as your business grows, Cathy stresses the importance of keeping the personal touch in your coaching services, ensuring systems and processes reflect your business ethos without losing the essence of your coaching style.
Episode 233 is a masterclass in evolving from a coach to a successful business owner. Cathy Smith provides actionable strategies to amplify your impact, streamline your operations, and ensure your coaching business not only survives but thrives in the competitive landscape.
Whether you're a new coach just starting out or an experienced coach looking to scale, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on running a successful coaching business with the finesse of a seasoned CEO. Tune in to make the leap from coach to CEO and transform your coaching journey into a rewarding business venture.
Go to Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 233 for all the show notes and links.
Coaches are you looking to build a thriving business? Go to https://coachesmarketingroadmap.com.au for resources, the book and the program.
Small Business Talk For Coaches. This podcast is the ultimate resource for coaches looking to transform their coaching passion into a thriving business.
Small Business Talk for Coaches with Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Overcoming Doubts and Fears, the Psychology of Fear, in this enlightening episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith and Jennifer Fidder, a seasoned social psychologist and hypnotist, discuss the power of your mind. With a passion for helping female entrepreneurs conquer their inner doubts and fears, Jennifer equips them with the tools to boost productivity and achieve business success. Boasting over 16 years of coaching experience, she has dedicated her career to teaching clients the art of controlling their subconscious minds to pave the way for entrepreneurial triumph.
This episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches shines a light on the intricate workings of the mind, highlighting the dual roles of our conscious and subconscious parts. While the conscious mind focuses on logical thinking and goal setting, the subconscious mind operates behind the scenes, influencing 90% of our actions through ingrained patterns. Jennifer and Cathy explore how these patterns, meant to simplify life, can sometimes hinder our progress by activating fears in response to perceived threats. With insightful analogies and expert knowledge, they guide listeners on how to navigate the subconscious patterns to foster a mindset conducive to success and overcome fears of failure, rejection, judgment, and even success itself.
Join Cathy and Jennifer in this conversation in episode 232 of Small Business Talk for Coaches as they uncover some secrets of the mind and help transform fear into stepping stones towards building a thriving business.
Go to Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 232 for all the show notes and links.
Coaches are you looking to build a thriving business? Go to https://coachesmarketingroadmap.com.au for resources, the book and the program.
Small Business Talk For Coaches. This podcast is the ultimate resource for coaches looking to transform their coaching passion into a thriving business.
Small Business Talk for Coaches with Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 231 explores how to craft an irresistible offer that your audience can't ignore, focusing on perfect timing, precise audience understanding, and clear presentation. Discover strategies to identify and articulate hidden client problems, making your solutions the clear choice.
Tune into Small Business Talk Episode 231 for all the insights on making your services as irresistible and straightforward as ice cream on a hot day.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listen to episode 230: Mastering Instagram Authenticity with Cathy Smith and Rah Gardiner
Dive into the essence of genuine engagement on Instagram in this enlightening episode with Cathy Smith and Rah Gardiner. Discover why embracing your true self, ditching the need for perfection, and engaging in meaningful interactions are key to thriving on the platform. Learn practical tips on utilizing videos, overcoming the fear of imperfection, and the power of authentic connections to grow your audience and strengthen your brand. Whether you're camera-shy or striving for polished content, this episode demystifies the trend towards authenticity and offers strategies to love Instagram in 2024 and beyond.
Cathy and Rah delve into the importance of authenticity on Instagram, emphasising the need to embrace genuine content over perfection. They explore the significant impact of videos and Reels in engaging an audience, providing strategies to overcome perfectionism. The discussion further highlights the value of authentically engaging with followers, offering insights into making genuine connections and more to enhance your social media presence effectively.
Unlock the potential of authentic engagement on Instagram with insights from Cathy and Rah, and transform your social media strategy today.
Go to Small Business Talk For Coaches, episode 230, for all the show notes and links. --- Coaches, are you looking to build a thriving business?
Go to Coaches Marketing Roadmapfor resources, the book and the program. Small Business Talk For Coaches. This podcast is the ultimate resource for coaches looking to transform their coaching passion into a thriving business. Small Business Talk for Coaches with Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
STOP Selling Coaching, you read it right.
In episode 229 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith delves into the essential shift every coach needs to make to truly elevate their practice: moving from selling coaching hours to selling life-changing transformations. Cathy addresses both newcomers and seasoned coaches struggling to see the results they desire, providing a roadmap to success that transcends traditional coaching models.
Cathy argues that the fundamental flaw in many coaching practices is the transactional approach to selling services. She illuminates the truth that clients are not looking for coaching per se but for the transformation and results that coaching can facilitate. This episode is a masterclass in repositioning coaching offerings to focus on the outcomes that genuinely matter to clients, whether that’s personal breakthroughs, overcoming obstacles, or achieving specific ambitions.
Through Cathy's expertise, listeners learn how to articulate and package their services in ways that resonate deeply with their target audience. She emphasises the importance of understanding what clients are truly seeking and how to communicate the value of the transformation being offered. Cathy shares strategies for leveraging one's unique story and experiences to stand out in the crowded coaching market, highlighting the power of personal branding in establishing oneself as the go-to expert in a specific niche.
Cathy discusses the critical role of building a strong, distinctive identity within the coaching industry, encouraging coaches to position themselves as the only logical choice for their clients. She explains how becoming a 'category of one' enables coaches to avoid competing solely on price, instead attracting clients based on the unique value and transformation they offer.
The episode concludes with practical advice on incorporating these insights into marketing and service delivery, ensuring coaches can effectively communicate their value and make a meaningful impact in their clients' lives. Cathy Smith's guidance in episode 229 of Small Business Talk for Coaches is a call to action for coaches everywhere to embrace a transformational approach to their business, promising not just to change the way they work, but to revolutionise the results they achieve.
Don't miss out on the invaluable insights shared in Small Business Talk episode 229.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to Episode 228 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, featuring our special guest, Lisa Brandis. Lisa shares her journey from being a clinical hypnotherapist and business owner to mastering the art of integrating intuition into personal and business growth. She discusses the shift to online training due to COVID-19 and her passion for teaching others to deepen relationships and business success through intuitive connection.
In this episode, Lisa emphasises the importance of personal experiences in learning and growth. She recounts her early career as Captain Starlight at the Starlight Children's Foundation, where she discovered her empathic abilities. This role highlighted the challenges of balancing emotional openness with personal boundaries, especially when dealing with seriously ill children.
Lisa's journey through burnout and personal crisis led her to discover the healing power of Reiki, marking the beginning of her path as a Reiki teacher. She discusses the transformative impact of Reiki on her life and how it facilitates a deep connection with unconditional love, moving beyond intellectual understanding to profound experiential knowledge.
For coaches seeking to enhance their client connections, Lisa offers insights into the principles of Reiki and presence. She suggests practical tips for fostering genuine connections, such as setting positive intentions and leveraging intuition to listen and be present with clients truly.
The conversation also delves into the role of intuition in business and personal life, highlighting stories that underscore the importance of listening to one's inner guidance. Lisa shares personal anecdotes that illustrate the power of intuition in navigating life's challenges and making meaningful decisions.
Lisa's recent book, "Intuitive Reiki: A Transformational Journey of Deep Spiritual Awakening," is discussed as a resource for those interested in exploring the intersection of spirituality and personal development.
This episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches is a rich exploration of the intersections between intuition, healing, and business success, offering coaches and listeners alike valuable insights into cultivating deeper connections and embracing their intuitive abilities for personal and professional growth.
Go to Small Business Talk For Coaches, episode 228, for all the show notes and links. --- Coaches, are you looking to build a thriving business?
Go to https://coachesmarketingroadmap.com.au for resources, the book and the program. Small Business Talk For Coaches. This podcast is the ultimate resource for coaches looking to transform their coaching passion into a thriving business. Small Business Talk for Coaches with Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coaches can't make money, is what I am told over and over. In episode 227 of Small Business Talk for Coaches with Cathy Smith, we explore a common quandary among coaches: 'Why can't I make money?' The episode tackles this issue head-on, drawing inspiration from successful figures in the coaching world like Tony Robbins, Brendon Burchard, Rachel Hollis, and Brooke Castillo. These coaches have achieved remarkable financial success, proving that there is significant earning potential in the coaching profession.
The episode underscores the importance of personal branding and diverse income sources. These successful coaches are known by their names, reflecting their powerful personal brands. They diversify their income through various channels such as books, courses, and corporate coaching.
For those new to coaching, the episode stresses the need for patience and ongoing learning. Building a successful coaching career is often a long-term endeavour that requires dedication and the continual development of skills. The episode advises new coaches to avoid a scarcity mindset by having alternative income sources initially, to prevent the kind of desperation that can negatively impact sales.
Another key point is the importance of connecting authentically with your audience. The episode suggests using platforms like podcasts and YouTube to forge genuine connections with clients who align with your coaching style.
Clarity in messaging and focusing on a specific audience are also highlighted as crucial strategies. The episode wraps up with a recommendation to check out the Coaches Marketing Roadmap, a step-by-step guide to developing a thriving coaching business. This episode is an invaluable resource for coaches seeking insights into making money in the coaching field.
Go to Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 227 for all the show notes and links.
Coaches, are you looking to build a thriving business? Go to https://coachesmarketingroadmap.com.au for resources, the book and the program.
Small Business Talk For Coaches. This podcast is the ultimate resource for coaches looking to transform their coaching passion into a thriving business.
Small Business Talk for Coaches with Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Simplify for Growth with Cathy Smith and Paul Bryan. In this insightful episode, Cathy Smith is joined by Paul Bryan, a seasoned coach specialising in the disability and aged care services sector. They delve into the essential strategies for business growth within the coaching industry.
Key Highlights:
- KISS Principle: The episode starts with a reminder to keep business strategies simple and focused. Coaches are encouraged to remember they are running profitable businesses, not just indulging in expensive hobbies.
- Simplicity in Business Approach: Emphasising simplicity, Paul Bryan advises against imitating high-earning coaches unnecessarily. He suggests sticking to basics that align with one's current business stage.
- Focusing on Specific Clients: The discussion highlights the importance of not trying to be everything to everyone. Finding and solving the problems of just one ideal client can lead to growth and scalability.
- Moderation in Expansion: The episode cautions against over expanding with complex systems. Simple steps like engaging a live on social media can benefit, especially in the early stages of growth.
- Realistic Goal Setting: Perfection is seen as an evolving concept. Coaches are encouraged to start slowly, focusing on helping one client at a time and gradually refining their business processes.
- Collaboration Over Competition: The episode concludes with the importance of collaboration. Building a community and referring clients to other coaches can enhance service quality and business growth.
The episode reinforces that perfection isn't necessary for success. A simple, client-focused approach can be the most effective strategy for coaches looking to grow their businesses.
Go to Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 226 for all the show notes and links.
Coaches, are you looking to build a thriving business? Go to https://coachesmarketingroadmap.com.au for resources, the book and the program.
Small Business Talk For Coaches. This podcast is the ultimate resource for coaches looking to transform their coaching passion into a thriving business.
Small Business Talk for Coaches with Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your time is a non renewal resource, Essential Time Management Strategies for Coaches is a great listen. In Episode 225 of Small Business Talk for Coaches, hosted by Cathy Smith, a seasoned marketing professional, we delve deeply into the vital topic of time management strategies, tailored specifically for coaches in the business and personal development sectors. This insightful episode is a treasure trove for coaches seeking to enhance their productivity, client management, and business efficiency.
Cathy expertly navigates through the Eisenhower Matrix, a crucial tool for task prioritisation, demonstrating its effectiveness in helping coaches identify and focus on tasks that are both urgent and important. The episode also highlights the significant impact of strategic delegation, particularly in non-core areas like bookkeeping, enabling coaches to concentrate on their primary coaching responsibilities and client engagement.
The discussion on the ABCD method offers a practical approach to daily task organisation, guiding coaches on prioritising tasks to ensure that crucial activities are addressed promptly. Cathy's insights into balancing coaching sessions with essential business activities address the common challenge of the 'feast or famine' cycle in coaching. She provides actionable strategies for maintaining a steady flow of clients while managing the business side of coaching, including social media management and marketing.
A key segment of the episode focuses on batching similar tasks and the concept of time blocking, both of which are instrumental in optimising a coach's workday. These methods not only enhance focus and productivity but also reduce the mental fatigue associated with task-switching, a common issue in the remote and flexible work environments many coaches operate in.
For coaches looking to scale their business, improve client relationships, and streamline their workflow, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips. The content is especially relevant for listeners interested in topics like business coaching, productivity, personal development, and entrepreneurial growth.
Go to Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 225 for all the show notes and links.
Coaches are you looking to build a thriving business? Go to https://coachesmarketingroadmap.com.au for resources, the book and the program.
Small Business Talk For Coaches. This podcast is the ultimate resource for coaches looking to transform their coaching passion into a thriving business.
Small Business Talk for Coaches with Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Small Business Talk For Coaches. This podcast is the ultimate resource for coaches looking to transform their coaching passion into a thriving business.
Episode 224: Goals for Growth in 2024 - Crafting Success in Your Coaching Business"
In this inspiring episode of Small Business Talk for Coaches, Cathy Smith delves into the essential topic of goal setting for the year 2024, tailored for coaches aspiring to transform their passion into a prosperous business. Cathy, a seasoned marketing professional since 2001, focuses on practical strategies to help coaches achieve financial success and client acquisition. She emphasises the importance of creating a thriving business, not just for personal gain but to enable coaches to contribute positively to others, including through charity work.
Go to Small Business Talk For Coaches episode 224 for all the show notes and links.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Future-proofing your business as part of the summer series on Small Business Talk. In episode 223 of Small Business Talk podcast with Cathy Smith, we delve into the topic of future-proofing your business, exploring strategies to help businesses sustain the ups and downs typical in the small business landscape.
The episode is a collection of insights from various guests who appeared on episode 200, celebrating the 200th episode of the podcast where multiple guests shared valuable insights. These include:
- Amy Bett on Cash Flow: The importance of understanding cash flow for business sustainability. Amy emphasises the necessity of knowing your business numbers, understanding financial reports, and allocating cash flow effectively.
- Laurene McKenzie (Loz) on Community and Business Building: The significance of community in business growth. Loz discusses the importance of nurturing key relationships in every aspect of business, from team interactions to strategic alignments.
- Liz Del Borello on Technology: Ensuring your business has the right tech solutions. Liz shares valuable technology tips that can make a significant difference in running a business efficiently.
- Ray Milidoni Insight on Consistency: Discussing the importance of consistently showing up and playing the game in business, regardless of frequency.
- Jackson Millan on Wealth Management: The need to know what to do with your cash flow and manage wealth effectively. Jackson talks about understanding and leveraging your unique value in the business, both internally and in external interactions.
- Adam Houlahan on LinkedIn: Focusing on four pillars to ensure stability in your LinkedIn strategy.
- Ian Hawkins Knowing Your Value: As small business owners we are often the business, so we need to know the value that we bring to our businesses. Listen to Ian’s segment to find out more.
Episode 223 of Small Business Talk provides a comprehensive look at various strategies to future-proof a business, with emphasis on consistent action, understanding financials, leveraging technology, and nurturing relationships. These insights aim to equip small business owners with the knowledge and tools to thrive in the ever-changing business landscape.
Small Business Talk With Cathy Smith is brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In episode 222 of the "Small Business Talk" podcast with Cathy Smith, Caitriona Forde, a cybersecurity expert from Perth, Western Australia, shares her expertise on the critical topic of cybersecurity for small businesses. Forde emphasises the significant risk that every individual or business, regardless of size, faces in the digital environment. She highlights common tactics used by cybercriminals, such as phishing, and points out the human tendency to make errors or overlook security concerns, often leading to cybersecurity breaches.
A key insight from the episode is Forde's discussion on the statistic that up to 90% of cyber incidents are due to human error. She challenges this perspective, suggesting that nearly every cyber incident involves a human element. Forde stresses the importance of educating employees on cybersecurity risks and safe practices, advocating for businesses to invest in training as well as in technology.
The episode also covers the increasing sophistication of phishing emails and the rise of artificial intelligence in creating convincing scam emails. Forde emphasises the need for ongoing training and awareness about cybersecurity, advocating for a comprehensive approach that incorporates technology, people, and processes to create a robust defence against cyber threats.
Overall, the episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for small business owners and individuals to understand and address cybersecurity risks in today's digital world.
Merry Christmas everyone, Happy New Year and enjoy the Summer Series.
Enjoy Small Business Talk With Cathy Smith episode 222 brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Navigating entrepreneurial challenges faced by coaches transitioning into business owners is today's topic for episode 221 of the Small Business Talk Podcast, hosted by Cathy Smith. The episode begins with an emphasis on the distinction between coaching skills and business skills, highlighting the need for coaches to acquire business acumen to succeed.
Cathy explains the importance of understanding clients' problems and effectively crafting marketing messages to communicate solutions. She points out the difficulty coaches face in marketing to a general audience, especially when working with limited resources. The episode encourages coaches to specialize in a niche that aligns with their expertise and passion, making it easier to build a consistent brand and market effectively.
The discussion then shifts to the need for creating a business plan with long-term goals, breaking down these goals into achievable steps. Cathy advises on considering the number of clients needed, the types of coaching programs to offer, pricing strategies, and creating a business ecosystem.
She suggests starting with 1 on 1 coaching and gradually expanding services. Understanding and addressing common hurdles like cash flow management and self-doubt is emphasised, along with honing the messaging and being resilient to feedback, especially from those who are not the target audience.
The episode also stresses the importance of consistency in branding, such as using uniform colours and design elements across all marketing materials. Cathy recommends a thoughtful approach to business planning, considering how the business should look in ten years and working backwards to set short-term goals.
Cathy also touches on the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and seeking professional advice if needed. Cathyt hen encourages listeners to define their niche, be specific in their marketing, and remember to run their coaching as a business. She reminds the audience to enjoy their journey in entrepreneurship and subscribe to the Small Business Talk podcast for more insights.
Listen to episode 221 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Explore how clarity in business is achieved through values, purpose, and passion; these areas are fundamental for business owners to move forward with confidence. In episode 220 of the Small Business Talk Podcast, Cathy Smith hosts Liz Del Borrello to discuss aligning passion, values, and purpose with business. Liz, a leadership coach and trainer, emphasises the importance of networking and creating inclusive spaces for leaders through her venture, Leaders Lobby Perth.
Liz advises focusing on your passion when entering business, as it's easy to lose sight of initial motivations. The episode delves into the significance of aligning your brand consistently across all platforms, illustrating this with a story of an executive who successfully mirrored her online persona with her real-life values.
A key part of the discussion is the impact of showing your personality in business, especially through social media. Sharing interests like animals or hobbies can foster connections with potential clients with similar values. Liz stresses the importance of being mindful about what you share online and maintaining professionalism while being transparent about your passions.
The conversation then shifts to self-reflection practices for business improvement, like the "Gone Well and Not Gone Well" exercise. This exercise helps business owners to reflect on their achievements and areas for improvement. Liz also touches on the necessity of setting and maintaining healthy boundaries in business and personal life.
Towards the end of the podcast, Liz talks about pricing and the importance of charging what you're worth, correlating it with the value you provide. The episode concludes with a rapid-fire question session. Liz shares insights on not sweating the small stuff, the significance of Stephen Covey’s "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People," and the importance of not fearing others’ opinions.
Listen to Small Business Talk Podcast episode 220 with Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Niching, should you or shouldn't you? In episode 219 of Small Business Talk, the discussion centres around the concept of "niching" in business. The episode begins by questioning whether to niche or not, considering the implications of either restricting your audience or attempting to help everyone.
Cathy Smith emphasises that while it might seem beneficial to cater to everyone, this approach can complicate marketing efforts. Instead, she suggests focusing on one "ideal client" - a person you are familiar with, and whose problems you understand deeply. This strategy allows for more targeted communication, using language that resonates with that specific individual.
This episode explains that marketing to a broader audience dilutes your message, similar to adding too much water to cordial. A more concentrated approach, targeting a specific individual or avatar, makes your message clearer and more compelling. This discussion stresses that this doesn't necessarily limit your audience; instead, by appealing strongly to one group, you attract others who can relate to your messaging.
The concept of niching is likened to the growth of Facebook, which started in a single university dorm and expanded globally. The idea is that starting with a specific focus doesn't limit growth potential but can actually facilitate it. The episode concludes by encouraging listeners to try being more specific in their marketing and to enjoy their business journey.
Episode 219 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In episode 218 of Small Business Talk, Cathy Smith chats with Bill Nikolouzakis, a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Levels Growth Consultants. They delve into the crucial topic of enhancing customer experience for repeat and referral business. Bill shares his rich entrepreneurial journey, including his venture into consultancy to bring corporate-level strategies to small businesses.
Key discussion points include understanding and exceeding customer expectations, transforming clients into active promoters, and the importance of viewing service delivery through the customers' eyes. Bill also touches on the concept of service quality exceeding expectations, using real-life examples from his career to illustrate how this approach leads to sustainable business growth.
The conversation offers practical advice for small business owners on improving customer service, handling feedback, and the art of communication. It wraps up with a quick-fire round where Bill imparts valuable business wisdom, including his favourite book and the best advice he's received.
This episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance their customer experience and drive business growth through satisfaction and referrals.
Listen to episode 218 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises for all the details.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In Episode 217 of Small Business Talk, Cathy Smith explores the essential principles of building and maintaining strong client relationships, a key factor in the success of coaching and small business ventures. Cathy emphasizes the importance of active listening, which involves deeply understanding clients' needs, concerns, and feedback. This approach fosters trust and a deeper connection. Consistent communication is highlighted as crucial for keeping clients informed and building a relationship based on reliability. Cathy advises on the strategy of underpromising and overdelivering to exceed client expectations, enhancing their perception of your dedication and reliability.
Personalisation in business interactions is stressed as a necessity, with Cathy explaining how tailoring your approach to each client's unique challenges and goals can strengthen the relationship. Transparency is another key principle discussed, with an emphasis on being open and honest, even when delivering challenging news. This builds trust and client loyalty. Anticipating clients' needs and addressing them proactively is also covered, demonstrating a commitment to their success and preventing potential misunderstandings.
Cathy discusses the importance of seeking and acting on client feedback. This practice is essential for continuous improvement and shows clients that their opinions are valued and integral to the business. Cathy wraps up by reiterating that these strategies are not just beneficial but critical for building lasting, meaningful client relationships that can propel a small business or coaching venture to long-term success.
Episode 217 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Imposter syndrome is the feeling you get when you feel that you’re just not enough, so it’s self-doubt but in certain roles, that self-doubt can hinder your professional growth and experience. In episode 216, Cathy Smith and special guest Shiela Buswell discuss this important topic. You feel like you don’t belong where you are and it affects people in a myriad of different ways. It can last an instant or it can last a breath of years and most people experience this over their career.
It’s something that affects people differently, so there’s not one way to explain it but generally speaking, it feels just like that.
Imposter syndrome influences people in more areas than you can think of. For example, if you are working in a man filled industry, you’ll be told that you are too feminine. You might not be feminine at all but when you are around other women, you don’t feel feminine enough. So, there are a lot of ways Imposter syndrome can affect people.
Listen to episode 216 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In Episode 215 of the Small Business Talk podcast, Cathy Smith discusses the challenges faced by professionals transitioning into coaching roles. The episode, titled "Who Do You Need to Be?", delves into the complexities of identity and the struggle some face when letting go of their previous professional titles. Cathy emphasizes that becoming a coach is not just about mastering the skills but also reshaping one's identity and self-belief. She encourages embracing personal experiences and histories as unique value propositions in a crowded coaching market. The episode underscores the power of vulnerability, storytelling, and authenticity in building trust with clients. Cathy advises against trying to fit a mould and stresses the importance of carving out one's authentic path in the coaching world.
Listen to Episode 215 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith brought you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In Episode 214 of Small Business Talk, host Cathy Smith welcomes special guest Anton Harrison Kern for an insightful discussion on scaling small businesses. Cathy sets the stage by mentioning the show's recent focus on future-proofing businesses, making this episode on scaling a fitting sequel. Anton, an entrepreneur with extensive experience managing between 11 and 30 businesses, brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.
Anton kicks off by stressing the importance of organic growth, cautioning listeners against the pitfalls of having too much startup capital, which can lead to wasteful spending. He explains his endorsement of the "Profit First" model, which prioritises profitability from the get-go. Cathy, who shares her enthusiasm for the model, adds that listeners can find more details in previous episodes and in the show notes.
As the conversation unfolds, both Cathy and Anton agree that marketing and sales are paramount when it comes to scaling. Anton introduces a novel concept, the 1-to-1 marketing spend, explaining how each dollar spent on marketing should generate at least a dollar in revenue. This approach also allows for the building of a customer list, which becomes an invaluable asset for future marketing efforts.
Anton highlights that creating value at every price point is crucial for customer retention and upselling, a sentiment strongly seconded by Cathy. They discuss how even low-cost items should provide high value to the customer, setting the stage for them to move to higher-priced products.
Then Anton reveals one of the most overlooked aspects of scaling: the existing customer base. He argues that companies often focus too much on acquiring new customers and neglect the goldmine that is their current clientele. According to Anton, the key to successful scaling is to continuously offer new and valuable products to existing customers, thereby enhancing customer loyalty and increasing sales.
This episode of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith and Anton Harrison Kern serves as a comprehensive guide to scaling small businesses, offering both practical advice and innovative strategies that are routed in real-world experience. Listen to Small Business Talk episode 214.
Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith Brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In episode 213 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, the focus is on a subject often misunderstood in the coaching world: Sales. Far from being a negative term, Cathy argues that sales are a vital component for any coach aspiring to turn their passion into a prosperous business. She challenges the commonly held belief that asking for payment somehow cheapens the coaching experience, asserting instead that sales are an avenue for building transformative client relationships.
Cathy also addresses prevailing misconceptions, such as the idea that setting fair prices equates to 'price gouging,' and she underscores the necessity for coaches to value their own time and skills adequately. Beyond this, she discusses the social benefits of running a financially sound coaching business, ranging from philanthropic contributions to achieving a work-life balance that includes community involvement.
For coaches ready to evolve from hobbyists to full-fledged business owners, Cathy introduces her upcoming book and course, 'The Coaches Marketing Roadmap.' This comprehensive guide aims to equip coaches with the tools they need to succeed in the business aspect of their profession. According to Cathy, coaches not only should but must charge for their valuable services, as this allows them to make a broader positive impact on the world.
Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Building an Iconic Brand Through Community Led Growth with Cathy Smith and Lloyed Lobo.
In Episode 212 of Small Business Talk, Cathy Smith welcomes her special guest, Lloyed Lobo. Lloyed, the co-founder of a company automating tax credits for tech companies, is a self-titled 'accidental immigrant entrepreneur' with a rich background that spans cold calling, sales, and working directly with founders.
Lloyed's journey took him from the aftermath of the Gulf War in Kuwait to Canada and then to the US. He stresses the importance of consistent and effective communication, highlighting his journey from an engineering background to mastering sales through immersive experiences.
4 key takeaways from Lloyed's entrepreneurial journey include:
- Companions and Community: Surrounding oneself with the right people significantly impacts your journey. Immersing himself amidst founders played a pivotal role in shaping Lloyed's own entrepreneurial aspirations.
- Communication: Whether it's persuading an early team to believe in your vision or convincing customers to buy into a nascent product, effective communication is paramount.
- Creation: Being able to create – from content to products – sets one apart in the business landscape.
- Consistency: Stressed as the most vital aspect, Lloyed underscores that consistent small actions lead to significant outcomes over time. The most successful people, from content creators to investors, share the trait of unwavering consistency.
In episode 212 of Small Business Talk, we talk about the importance of community-led growth in building an iconic brand. Lloyed provides insights into why he penned a book on the topic and underscores the significance of community, especially in today's interconnected world.
Small Business Talk With Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 211 of Small Business Talk: "Coach to Business Owner"
In this episode of Small Business Talk, Cathy Smith unveils the roadmap for coaches eager to turn their passion into a thriving business. Navigating the coaching landscapes, the episode delves into why the coaching industry is seeing unprecedented growth.
Cathy emphasises the distinct skill sets that underpin coaching and business. She highlights the art of marrying the two, illuminating how core coaching skills can be harnessed in a business setting to build client trust and effective communication.
Cathy offers actionable insights on transitioning from coaching to business, touching upon pivotal decisions like business structuring, pricing strategies, and the essence of digital marketing.
She underscores the importance of continuous learning, from upgrading coaching techniques to honing business skills, while not going down the over-certified route. Addressing the hurdles coaches might face, Cathy shares strategies for resilience, from tackling common pitfalls to building a robust support system.
The key takeaway? The coaching realm is ripe with opportunity, and with the right tools and mindset, transitioning into a prosperous business is well within reach.
Episode 211, Coach to Business Owner on Small Business Talk by Cathy Smith, proudly presented by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In episode 210, Cathy Smith welcomes Jackson Millian from Aureus Financial. Their discussion aims to delve deeper into the topic of future-proofing businesses, which began during the show's 200th episode.
Jackson Millian shares his perspective on the evolving market conditions. He compares the current business environment to that of the late 1970s to early 1980s, mentioning that despite being born in 1989, he's acquainted with past trends, believing that if one fails to learn from history, they're bound to repeat it.
Millian speaks on how the economic landscape has shifted. Over the past 15 years, since the global financial crisis, businesses have operated in relatively favourable conditions. However, the golden era is seemingly over. The current phase necessitates businesses to mature and evolve, emphasising the need to build a financial "moat" around them.
Cathy and Jackson discuss the changing dynamics of the business world. They touch on how the internet made it much easier for individuals to start businesses, but also on the challenges that have arisen, especially in terms of finances and cyber issues.
Millian introduces a framework he developed, the "profit pyramid." He believes that for a business to truly succeed, it requires three essential components:
Millian introduces the "profit pyramid" framework, focusing on:
- Profitable positioning: Positioning businesses in a market to maximise perceived value.
- Pricing and packaging: Once a firm position is established, price becomes an outcome of effective value communication.
Drawing from his experiences in Far North Queensland, Millian underscores the value of punctuality and clear communication in today's business world. Cathy agrees, noting that these fundamental principles elevate businesses in today's competitive landscape.
In conclusion, businesses need to stay agile and prioritise their positioning and value proposition in the ever-evolving market.
Small Business Talk by Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In Episode 209 of Small Business Talk, titled "Star Power for Your Business," Cathy Smith motivates business owners, especially coaches and consultants, to seize control of their destiny and recognize their own star power. The episode is a rallying call for people to stop waiting for validation and to step into their true potential.
Cathy underscores that business owners know their customers and their needs best, and they should take centre stage in their business. She encourages listeners to not miss opportunities or leave their talents on the sideline. Instead, she says, they should make the bold choice to shine unapologetically.
The episode also touches upon the importance of getting your message out there, even if the circumstances aren't perfect. Cathy recounts her own experience of recording an episode in a less-than-ideal setting but notes that the message still resonated with her audience.
She also brings up the concept of collaboration and how small businesses can be attractive partners for larger companies due to their agility. The episode wraps up with Cathy announcing her upcoming book, "Coaches Marketing Roadmap," aimed at helping coaches transition their coaching passion into a viable business.
The message is clear: Don't wait for the perfect moment; take action now. Cathy signs off with a teaser about a guest for the next episode and reminds listeners to enjoy their business journey.
Small Business Talk by Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprise.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In Episode 208, Cathy Smith delves into the essential marketing strategies every small business owner needs to know. This episode is a special collaboration with the Online Prosperity Show, hosted by Prosper Taruvinga. With over two decades of experience in marketing, Cathy shares her journey from a corporate career to becoming a digital marketing agency owner and coach.
Cathy speaks candidly about common marketing pitfalls like poor advice, spreading too thin, and lack of consistency. She also emphasises the importance of targeting the right customers and staying authentic in your marketing efforts. Additionally, she talks about the need for small business owners to continually learn and surround themselves with the right people. Whether you're just starting out or seeking to refine your marketing skills, this episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights.
- The Importance of Niche Marketing: Cathy Smith emphasised the value of focusing your business and marketing efforts on a specific niche rather than trying to be everything to everyone. She used the example of Facebook starting in one university and slowly expanding to underline the importance of a targeted approach.
- The Role of Authenticity: Cathy stressed that being authentic is crucial in marketing. She noted that businesses should be true to their own identity and not try to be something they're not. Being authentic not only attracts the right customers but also repels the wrong ones, making your marketing more effective.
- Continuous Learning and Networking: Cathy highlighted the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and continuing to learn, especially in the field of marketing. She mentioned that no one can know everything, so learning from others through means like podcasts can provide new perspectives and areas of expertise.
Tune in to hear Cathy's invaluable tips and get ready to elevate your small business marketing game.
Support the show: https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In Episode 207 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, this episode dives into the vital question. “How do you know who your right audience is?"
According to Cathy, two major factors define this audience. The first factor is, "can they pay or can somebody else pay on their behalf?"
While many say "we're not in it for the money," Cathy argues that being in business is about value exchange. "They pay you, and you give them as much value or if not more value."
It's crucial to price your services appropriately. Undervaluing your offerings can undermine your ability to provide exceptional service. The key is to establish a fair exchange of value – your customers invest in you, and you, in turn, provide them with remarkable value.
Understanding the pain points of your ideal audience is fundamental. Your services or solutions should directly address their needs. Once you've identified your target audience and comprehended their challenges, the next step is to determine where they congregate. Where do they spend their time, and what are their preferences? Your objective is to be where they are.
You don't necessarily need a massive following; what you need is precision. Start by crafting a detailed profile of your ideal customer. Give them a persona, delve into their lifestyle, interests, and how they consume media. For instance, envision a persona like "Sally," who thrives in suburban life, drives an SUV, and actively participates in local sports clubs.
Once you've vividly imagined your ideal customer, pinpoint their media consumption habits. Do they favour platforms like Facebook, and LinkedIn, or perhaps they are more inclined toward traditional newspapers? Don't dismiss conventional methods if they resonate with your audience. The key is to meet your audience where they are.
Consider the services your ideal audience typically uses before or after encountering your offerings. Forge partnerships with complementary service providers. For instance, a coffee shop could collaborate with a car dealership to offer enticing incentives to shared customers. It's a mutually beneficial strategy that can bring you valuable leads.
Reciprocity plays a pivotal role in partnerships. Giving as much as you receive is essential. Remember, by helping others, you often open doors to unexpected opportunities. It's akin to a positive karma loop – aiding someone else often results in the universe returning the favour in delightful ways.
Getting in front of your ideal audience demands creativity and thinking beyond conventional boundaries. Partnerships offer an excellent avenue to access an audience you wouldn't typically reach. However, it's crucial to reward your partners generously. This motivates them to send you repeat customers.
While acquiring new customers is crucial, don't underestimate the value of your current ones. Your existing customer base can be a precious source of referrals and repeat business. Consider offering additional value to your current customers to strengthen these relationships.
If you offer a service that your current customers aren't using, make sure they are aware of it. This could lead to more business from them and referrals. Remember, it's about knowing your customer inside out.
Small Business Talk With Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In episode 206 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, Cathy welcomes Adam Houlahan, the founder of Prominence Global, one of the leading global LinkedIn agencies specialising in personal branding and ethical lead generation on the platform. As the topic suggests, the episode delves into the strategies to excel on LinkedIn in 2023.
Adam kickstarts the discussion on the essence of winning on LinkedIn, which he breaks down into four pivotal pillars. These pillars, though consistent over time, they really haven't changed over a long period of time. However, how you implement each of the four is the constantly moving target.
Adam highlights:
- Profile Optimisation: A crucial step to ensure you make the right first impression.
- Connection Strategy: The nuances of whom and how you connect with on LinkedIn.
- Content Strategy: Adapting to new innovations, like the introduction of "Chat GPT", and ensuring content aligns with the platform's trends and the audience's needs.
- Conversion Strategies: Translating efforts into tangible results, such as acquiring new clients.
The crux of the conversation revolves around conversions. Adam emphasises that LinkedIn isn't necessarily the platform for direct conversions but rather a starting point for nurturing leads and moving conversations off the platform. He notes that while paid ads on LinkedIn can lead to conversions, their focus today is on organic and ethical strategies. Given the demographic of LinkedIn, with many savvy business professionals, Adam advises against old marketing gimmicks. Instead, he underscores the importance of authenticity, showcasing expertise, understanding audience pain points, and offering genuine solutions.
For those aiming to position themselves as authorities in their field and truly understand the intricacies of LinkedIn, episode 206 promises a wealth of insights. Dive into Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith and tap into the LinkedIn expertise of Adam Houlahan.
Small Business Talk With Cathy Smith brought to you by CACTO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Marketing in 2023 Small Business Talk With Cathy Smith Brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
In episode 205 of Small Business Talk, Cathy Smith delves into her experiences from the past week, highlighting the challenge of choosing a topic amidst an array of conferences, podcasts, and audiobooks she has engaged with. The primary discussion of this episode is the role and implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the realm of 2023 marketing.
Cathy shares insights from the State of Social conference she attended, where AI emerged as a central theme of the second day. There was a substantial emphasis on the need for businesses to harness AI while safeguarding their brand values and ensuring genuine authenticity. While AI offers immense potential, especially in hastening tasks and possibly supplanting stock photos, Cathy advocates treating AI with the same caution as a new hire. It’s essential to supervise its activities to ensure outputs are accurate and aligned with the brand.
She emphasises the irreplaceable nature of human connections in business. Although AI can amplify efforts, it can't entirely replace the human touch. As AI embeds itself into the modern marketing toolkit, businesses should capitalise on its strengths, particularly in data processing and generating quick results, without becoming overly dependent on it.
Beyond AI, Cathy underscores the value of brand authenticity. She stresses the need for businesses to ensure consistent experiences across all touchpoints, be it physical storefronts or digital interactions. The customer's journey, often guided by the customers themselves, demands flexibility and adaptability on the business's part.
Consistency, akin to the predictable quality found in fast-food chains, is essential for building and maintaining brand trust. The episode also highlights the advantages of collaborative ventures, pushing for mutual benefit partnerships that align with brand values and engage diverse subcultures.
Cathy accentuates the essence of delegation for entrepreneurs. She recommends focusing on core competencies and offloading tasks that don't align with one's strengths. Such an approach not only boosts efficiency but is a safeguard against burnout. Business owners can focus their energies on more lucrative endeavours by hiring experts, like bookkeepers familiar with the latest regulations.
Episode 205 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith offers a comprehensive overview of the current marketing landscape, the rising significance of AI, and the perennial need for genuine human touchpoints in business operations.
Dive into Small Business Talk Podcast, episode 205 to stay abreast with the evolving landscape of marketing, business strategies and practices.
Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith brought to you by CACTO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In episode 204 of Small Business Talk, Cathy Smith welcomes back Wendy Corner, who previously appeared on episode 104. The conversation dives into Wendy's journey and how the world of podcasting has changed since her last appearance.
Wendy and Cathy discuss the importance of making a difference, not only within the community but in the lives of their podcast guests. Many former guests have been inspired to create their own podcasts, contributing to their success.
They explore the concept of "Making a Difference," which came about from Wendy's experience with the Raw Business Awards. They discuss the importance of entrepreneurship in filling voids and the balance between being "mad" and making a difference.
The conversation centres around the importance of speaking the language of your customers. They emphasise understanding your audience, using appropriate language, and leveraging tools like Answer the Public to understand what customers are searching for. This can lead to more effective marketing and greater connection with customers.
Wendy also touches on the importance of understanding where your customers are online and being present there, even if it's not a platform you enjoy personally. They discuss the potential pitfalls of focusing only on platforms you like but that your customers may not frequent. There's also a discussion about overcoming fears of using photos and videos on platforms like Instagram, recognising that people buy not just products or services but the personality and presence behind them.
Episode 204 of Small Business Talk provides insightful tips and strategies for small business owners, focusing on the importance of knowing your customer, effective communication, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of other.
Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In episode 203 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, Cathy dives into the world of social media and how small businesses can leverage these platforms for optimal growth. Cathy sets the stage by discussing the importance of choosing the right platform, understanding its rules, and working within these guidelines to ensure maximum reach.
She emphasises the need to provide a mix of educational content and entertainment while regularly promoting your products or services. However, she warns about being careful with linking out from the platform, comparing it to inviting guests to one party, then asking them to leave for another.
Cathy further addresses how to approach sharing content from competing platforms, like sharing a YouTube video on Facebook. She suggests uploading natively to each platform to avoid being penalised.
Discussing the importance of hashtags, she breaks down how to use them strategically on different platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Instagram loves lots of hashtags, whereas Facebook and LinkedIn prefer fewer and more precise ones.
In choosing a social media platform, Cathy advises considering where your audience spends time, the kind of content they consume, and the type of content you are comfortable creating. She stresses the value of consistency in posting and suggests using built the platform's own scheduling tools.
Cathy also discusses the importance of engagement and how to handle negative comments professionally and publicly. By doing so, businesses can reassure their audience that they value feedback and are working to address issues.
This episode is packed with practical advice for small businesses wanting to harness the power of social media effectively. Listen to episode 203 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith to learn how to navigate the social media landscape, connect with your audience, and build a successful online presence.
Small Business Talk With Cathy Smith brought to you by CACTO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In episode 202 of the Small Business Talk Podcast, host Cathy Smith had a chat with Caitriona Forde from Cait IT about the human element of cybersecurity and its implications for businesses.
The focus of the discussion was on how human error contributes significantly to cybersecurity breaches. Caitriona mentioned that recent statistics showed that almost 90% of cyber incidents stem from human error, with each cyber incident involving some human element. The conversation highlighted the fact that while businesses heavily invest in improving their technology, the security aspect is often overlooked.
One issue discussed was the handling of passwords, and the dangerous practice of sending passwords or sensitive information like bank details and credit card numbers through emails. Caitriona also spoke about how an individual's unfamiliarity with technology could lead to security vulnerabilities, citing an instance where she helped a woman set up a password manager.
Caitriona highlighted that businesses face the challenge of employees carrying out risky behaviours, which the business owners may not be aware of. She further noted that staff could unknowingly implement unsecure workarounds, especially when their bosses are unavailable, leading to businesses being hacked.
The conversation then turned towards the fear of reporting mistakes in the workplace. Caitriona mentioned how creating a safe space for employees to report errors could help prevent cyber incidents. She gave an example of simulated phishing campaigns that show how easily employees can fall for scams, emphasising the need for a slower, more careful approach in a fast-paced work environment.
Towards the end of the discussion, they spoke about the difficulty in identifying malicious activities, even when things look perfect. Caitriona mentioned how hackers are getting better at drafting convincing emails and warned of the rise of AI, which has given hackers an edge in creating better phishing emails.
Overall, the podcast episode highlighted the crucial role that human behaviour plays in cybersecurity and emphasised the need for more proactive and secure practices in the workplace.
Listen to Small Business Talk episode 202 brought to CATCO Enterprises for this conversation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In episode 201 of Small Business Talk Podcast, with Cathy Smith, I bring your attention to the importance of specificity in communication and understanding your audience's needs. This episode's focus is on why you might be experiencing low engagement in your content and how to rectify it.
I discussed how crucial it is to address your audience's pain points in your content and to send out a clear message. Drawing on the analogy of Facebook's beginnings, I explained the importance of starting small and focused with a target demographic in mind. Once this group is catered to adequately, one can consider expansion.
Remembering that being specific with your message does not limit you is also important. I used the analogy of the dartboard to illustrate this - even if you're aiming for the bull's eye, you're likely to attract an audience beyond that immediate target. This approach makes your message resonate with more people while keeping your core audience in focus.
Next, I discussed the importance of defining your ideal customer - someone who values your service, pays on time, and trusts your advice. When creating content, always consider whether it serves this ideal customer. Sometimes, you might find that you're serving multiple different customer personas, which can make it difficult to create a one-size-fits-all content.
I also emphasised the importance of letting go of products or services that no longer serve you or your target audience. This involves constant re-evaluation and adaptation as business environments change. You may let go of some offerings to make room for new ones.
Listen to episode 201 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the 200th episode of Small Business Talk, host Cathy Smith pauses to celebrate and express gratitude towards her loyal listeners, her team, and all who have contributed to the podcast's success since its launch in February 2019. Drawing inspiration from a question posed by Amy Bett in episode 197, Cathy invites a host of special guests to the show to discuss the topic: "How to future-proof your business".
Ian Hawkins, a former guest, highlights the need to recognize one's unique value to their business, extending to colleagues and customers. He suggests building a capable team for those intending to start podcasts, aiding in managing its complexities.
Amy Bett, whose offhand comment shaped this episode's theme, applauds Cathy's achievement. Recognizing the dedication needed to produce consistent episodes, she acknowledges Cathy's accomplishment as a source of inspiration for her own podcast journey.
Guest Kyle Spyrides advises listeners to prepare for challenging times when it may seem impossible to overcome costs, debt, and cash flow issues. Loz McKenzie emphasises the importance of genuine relationships and staying top of mind in your network. Caitriona Forde warns that the biggest risk in cybersecurity is people and urges businesses to train their staff to be vigilant. Jemimah Ashleigh encourages businesses to leverage free PR as a valuable asset.
Ray Milidoni, the person who sparked Cathy's podcasting journey, reminisces about the early days. Wendy Corner advises entrepreneurs to maintain their passion and keep networking. Liz Del Borrello highlights the role of technology as a time-saver and crucial aspect of future-proofing a business. Lastly, Pauline Bright warns that static businesses will become obsolete, advising entrepreneurs to adapt, change, and innovate to stay relevant.
This celebratory episode is not only a milestone for Small Business Talk but also a source of insights for future-proofing businesses and a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the listeners and supporters who have contributed to the podcast's remarkable journey.
Episode 200 of Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith is brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, Episode 199. In today's episode, Cathy is joined by Jemimah Ashley from the Visibility Lab. They discuss the topic of how to get free PR for your business. Jemimah emphasises the importance of building a personal brand separate from your business brand. Having a strong personal brand allows you to maintain your identity even if you transition to different ventures. Jemimah shares her experience of building her personal brand alongside her business brand, highlighting the significance of connecting with people on a personal level.
The second tip discussed is the need to build a strong personal network. Cathy and Jemimah stress the value of surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than you and can advocate for you when you're not in the room. Building relationships and alliances with influential individuals helps increase visibility and opens up opportunities for free PR.
The third tip focuses on leveraging social media effectively. Cathy and Jemimah talk about the importance of being active and consistent on social media platforms. They suggest posting at least once a day and engaging with your audience through comments and interactions. Social media serves as a crucial tool for establishing visibility and is often the first place people look when researching a business or individual.
Overall, the episode highlights the significance of building a personal brand, cultivating a strong network, and utilising social media to enhance visibility and generate free PR for your small business. Listen to Small Business Talk episode 199 for all these tips and more.
Small Business Talk With Cathy Smith Brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 198 of "Small Business Talk," I discuss the importance of pricing and how it goes beyond being just a number. Understanding how people perceive prices and aligning them with value is crucial for small business owners.
I suggest a simple approach to setting prices: Determine your desired annual income and divide it by the number of clients or sales needed. This helps establish the relationship between pricing and the required customer base.
Using package deals, rather than relying solely on hourly rates, is beneficial in the service industry. Offering options like three-month or six-month packages allow customers to choose according to their needs and budget.
Confidence is key to successful sales. Believing in the value of your offerings and your ability to help customers is essential. If doubt exists, reassess whether the product or service should be sold at all.
Price is just a number. Focusing on delivering value, being confident, and aligning prices with customer needs is crucial. By understanding pricing dynamics and finding the right balance, your small businesses will thrive.
Episode 198 - Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.
In this episode 197 of "Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith," guest Amy Bett we discuss the challenges business owners face in managing money. Amy, a profit first professional and founder of Ladies Without Limits, helps business owners take control of their finances. She emphasizes that although many business owners initially focus on their product or service, understanding and making informed financial decisions is crucial as their businesses grow. Amy shares her personal experience of failing in her own business before becoming a profit first professional, reassuring business owners that managing money is not as difficult as it seems. She encourages them to seek support and learn simple systems to gain confidence in their finances.
Cathy and Amy discuss the profit first method by Mike Michalowicz, which involves separating cash flow into different bank accounts for income, expenses, taxes, profit, and owners' pay. This method provides better visibility of available funds and prevents overspending. They also highlight the importance of financial reports, such as profit and loss statements and balance sheets, in understanding business performance. Amy advises starting with small steps, like setting aside money for taxes, and gradually learning how to read and analyse financial reports.
The significance of averages in managing business finances is discussed, as they provide a clearer picture of income and expenses over time. Amy suggests using accounting software for financial organisation and informed decision-making. Planning for taxes and other financial obligations is emphasized to avoid last-minute stress. They also mention the relationship between money management and an abundance mindset, emphasizing the positive impact of being in control of finances.
To learn more about Amy and her work, visit her website at amybett.com. This episode provides valuable insights and practical tips for business owners struggling with money management.
Episode 197 Small Business Talk With Business WIth Cathy Smith Brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Business Decisions How Are You Making Them? Cathy Smith discusses the concept of making decisions in business. She shares a conversation she had with a friend about how decisions can be categorized as a definite "no," a "maybe," or a clear "yes." Cathy explores the idea of whether a "maybe" decision is a result of complexity or a series of micro-decisions leading up to a final choice.
She references Yoda's famous quote, "Do or do not, there is no try," and asks listeners to consider whether a "maybe" decision indicates curiosity or hesitation. Cathy suggests that intuition, past experiences, or external factors might influence one's decision-making process.
Cathy advises entrepreneurs to examine their "miserable maybes" and determine if they require immediate action or if they are merely a form of procrastination. She encourages listeners to be proactive in making business decisions, emphasising the importance of clarity and avoiding indecisiveness.
As the end of the financial year approaches in Australia, Cathy urges business owners to make necessary decisions and not let indecision become a decision itself. She mentions a goal-setting exercise involving prioritizing long-term goals and aligning shorter-term objectives accordingly.
Business Decisions How Are You Making Them listen toSmall Business Talk With Cathy Smith episode 196 Brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In episode 195 of Small Business Talk, host Cathy Smith explores the topic of employee motivation and retention with guest Karen Chaston, a former CFO. They highlight the critical role of treating employees as valuable assets and directly impacting a business's bottom line. The discussion centres around practical strategies to motivate and retain staff.
One key strategy emphasised is giving employees a voice. Chaston and Smith stress the importance of actively seeking input from employees, involving them in decision-making processes, and genuinely listening to their ideas and suggestions. This approach empowers employees, making them feel valued and appreciated.
Another vital strategy discussed is fostering interconnectedness among employees. A greater sense of purpose and teamwork can be cultivated by sharing information about each other's roles and how they contribute to the company's goals. This sense of unity can lead to higher employee engagement and commitment.
Chaston and Smith also highlight the significance of empowering employees by providing ownership and autonomy over their work. Allowing employees to have a say in decision-making and design processes instils a sense of pride and responsibility. This level of involvement creates a stronger sense of investment in the company's success, resulting in increased motivation and job satisfaction.
By implementing these strategies, small business owners can create a positive work culture that promotes employee retention and alignment with the company's values and vision. Ultimately, prioritising employee motivation leads to improved business performance and long-term success.
Listen to Small Business Talk episode 195 by Cathy Smith, brought by CATCO Enterprises, to learn more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to Episode 194 of the Small Business Talk podcast with Cathy Smith. In today's episode, we delve into the concept of value - both from the perspective of a business and its clients. As the world of business constantly evolves, so too must our strategies to add value and innovate. Drawing on over 22 years of marketing experience, Cathy shares insights on how to effectively reach audiences, the importance of customer trust, and the potential of both paid and organic advertising. This episode also highlights notable case studies from industry giants, such as Kodak and Coke, illustrating how their strategic decisions impacted their business trajectories. Furthermore, we discuss how understanding your customer's journey, needs, and transformation can better inform your marketing efforts. So join us as we explore how to provide the value your customers are seeking.
Here the full episode at Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Small Business Talk, we delve into the common challenge faced by coaches when it comes to making money and turning their passion into a business. With the help of Kyle Spyrides, we talk coaching, marketing and why many coaches can't make money.
Small Business Talk Episode 193 By Cathy Smith Brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of "Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith," Cathy explores the power of authenticity based on a quote from Elizabeth Gilbert's book, Big Magic. The discussion challenges the societal pressure of constantly striving for originality and innovation, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself instead.
Authenticity is about embracing your unique experiences, values, and perspectives. Being authentic allows your true self to shine through, avoiding imitation or trying to be someone you're not. Liz Gilbert suggests "that when you are authentic enough, people will perceive your work as original".
Mark Twain's quote, "There is no such thing as a new idea," supports the idea that creativity is a process of rearranging existing ideas into new combinations. Authenticity provides the lens through which these ideas are filtered and expressed.
The episode highlights the many benefits of authenticity. When you are authentic, you save mental energy by not having to remember who you are or maintain a facade constantly. Authenticity fosters genuine relationships, collaboration, and inspires others to embrace their true selves. It allows for personal growth and self-discovery, as you tap into your unique strengths and chart your own path with confidence.
In a world that values conformity, embracing authenticity becomes a valuable asset. The episode encourages listeners to embrace their authentic voice and contribution, emphasizing that the world needs their true selves. The focus shifts from the pressure of being original to the importance of being genuine.
To explore further how to embrace authenticity in your own life, Cathy invites listeners to engage in a conversation and witness the magic that unfolds when you embrace your true self.
Join Cathy Smith on this enlightening episode of Small Business Talk With Cathy Smith Brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.and discover why authenticity is the new original.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Small Business Talk podcast, special guest Anne Claessen shares her insights on monetising podcasts without making them sound like an advertisement. While sponsors are a popular way of monetizing podcasts, Anne suggests exploring other avenues such as creating a membership around your podcast, selling digital products to your audience, offering services like coaching, and affiliate marketing. Additionally, Anne suggests using podcasts to educate listeners about upcoming courses or workshops, giving them a sneak peek into how you educate people. Podcasts can also help you understand what digital products your audience needs, and you can sell to them once the products are launched. Anne also recommends using video components to attract different audiences and repurposing content across different mediums. Finally, she suggests laying a clear foundation before approaching sponsors, including making messaging clear, adding contact information, and finding sponsors that fit well with your podcast.
Listen to episode 191 to get all the gold from Anne Claessen, Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith brought to You By CATCO Enterprises
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Video phobia in episode 188 I gave you 7 tips on how to overcome video phobia. In today’s episode I dive a little bit deeper into it at your request.
How I decided to overcome my video phobia by making a conscious decision to put aside my fears and just do it. I emphasized that mindset is crucial to overcoming any fears and encouraged listeners to make a decision to take the first step.
Then, I shared the steps I took to overcome my video phobia, starting with using a teleprompter to help me remember my points instead of writing a full script. I also emphasized the importance of thinking about my audience and how not doing videos was not serving them.
I shared how I started using my phone to record my videos, which made it more convenient for me. I also stopped worrying about how I looked and started focusing on delivering the information to my audience.
Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith brought to you by CATCO Enterprises check out episode 190.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why masterminds don't work for most businesses. We are told that we need to go out there and do personal development. Business development masterminds are a great thing, but why don't they work?
My special guest today is Bodo Frost.
It's a very simple answer in a way with Masterminds aren't they great? You get lots of nuggets, special information and things and ideas, about what you could do to improve your business. That's great. Then you go away after the mastermind, after that meeting, you had a coffee or whatever it is. You, you go back to your business. Then the daily grind gets you and then you forget. What was it? Oh, this nugget that I thought about.
Listen to episode 189 of Smal Business Talk With Cathy Smith and BodoFrost from Project Reboot.
Brought to You By CATCO Enterprises
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you have a video phobia? Before anything else, a phobia is a generic term for any kind of anxiety disorder that amounts to an unreasonable or irrational fear related to exposure to certain situations or objects – in this case, exposure to video.
What are you making it mean?
Honestly, I have spent four years trying to do video because I consider myself having a video phobia but then one day, I decided it had to stop. I stopped calling it a phobia and I started doing videos. It was not easy at all, and yes, I probably got a long way to go, but practice makes perfect, right?
Let’s start with seven tips. Listen to episode 188 of Small Business Talk by Cathy Smith, a business podcast brought to you by CATCO Enterprises, for all the details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Small Business Talk, my guest is David Barnett, who has over 20 years of experience working with small and medium-sized businesses and has been helping people buy and sell businesses since 2008. We discuss the topic of building a business that people want to buy. David explains that the value of a business is related to the cash flow it creates and that this is multiplied by a factor depending on the risks involved in the industry. He emphasises that having systems, policies, procedures, and checklists in place is crucial in demonstrating that someone can actually learn how to operate the business and that it's not dependent on the current owner's special skills or abilities.
We talk about the importance of not being key-person dependent, which is essential for the business to run smoothly even if certain key people leave or pass away. Illustrating this point by sharing a story of a business that had to struggle when a key team member passed away, as they did not have an organised system in place that was accessible to others in the company. This highlights the importance of having an organised system in place that allows others to take over the business seamlessly in case of any unexpected events.
David also mentions that as a private transaction advisor, he helps his clients through the process of buying or selling a business without taking an agency role. He acts as a coach or consultant and helps his clients navigate the process and overcome any challenges they may face. Overall, Barnett emphasizes the importance of having a well-organized and systematic business to make it more attractive to potential buyers and to ensure that the business can run smoothly even in unexpected situations.
Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week we did the first 9 of 23 Business Growth Strategies to Run a Successful Business at Small Business Talk this week, for part 2 we do 14 more.
Great ideas that you can implement into your business right now. Let's start with Leverage New Technology but don't get bogged down in the tech.
Listen to episode 186 of Small Business Talk With Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises for these 14 tips.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Let's start the year off with 23 Business Growth Strategies to Run a Successful Business here at Small Business Talk With Cathy Smith, brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
Some of these will be things you are doing, other things you know but might have forgotten to do regularly and some might be new. Let’s make 2023 the most amazing year yet.
- Create a Great Customer Experience
For many people, their product or service is not unique. Often there are thousands of choices and hundreds of providers that your customers can and do choose from. The difference is you and your customer experience. Unfortunately, in many industries, customer service has become almost non-existent and people stay with bad providers due to price or because they think it is too difficult to move.
Listen to Episode 185 of Small Business Talk for the full details to 23 Business Growth Strategies to Run a Successful Business.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It is the week between Christmas and New Year.
For most people, this time of year is a time to slow down and take stock of the year that was. How did your year go?
Was it a good year, great year, disappointing or something else?
For me, it was a year for a reason.
If you are listening to this at a different time, play along, think about what it was like last year or what you would like it to be like this year.
Listen to Small Business Talk episode 184 with Cathy Smith by CATCO Enterprises for all the details of how to Design Your Year and Create Greatness. Happy New Year to you all.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Going for No can be used in lots of different situations.
What Are You Stopping Short on?
In Richard Fenton and Andrea Waltz’s book “Go for No”, they talk about,
Yes, is the destination, No is how you get there.
What they mean is not stopping because you have made quota.
If you need to get 3 sales this week and you manage to get them in the first day, what do you do? Most people would process them and then take it easy for the rest of the week.
If on the other hand your target was 20 No’s, you got 3 yeses then you still have 20 more calls/appointments to do for the week.
How many more yeses, could you get with that attitude?
Go to Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith episode 183 to hear the full episode brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Creating an organic presence for your business website means that you stand out amongst the crowd, both to Google and to your ideal audience. Follow along with the recording as our host, Cathy Smith, discusses the best ways to get organic traffic to your website, with some handy tips to get started.
Listen to Episode 182 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever been overcome with nerves when making a decision and thought 'yeah, but what if I could?' You can. You can do this, whatever you put your mind to. Start by believing in yourself. This episode, we reflect on self-belief and achieving goals.
Listen to Episode 181 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
Small Business Talk by Cathy Smith. Brought to you by CATCO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Communicating with an audience effectively can be difficult, especially if you are unused to public speaking. Guest speaker Carole Issa provides practical tips for improving and highlighting your public speaking skills so that you can engage with an audience and really get out there without getting too stressed!
Listen to Episode 180 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What are you spending your days doing? The more time we have the more we fill it. Addiction to time and work are real and can cause many people great overwhelm. We get efficient so we do more. Instead of finishing early and going for a walk or to the beach we stay late and do even more. Are you addicted to time?
Listen to Episode 179 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
Small Business Talk by Cathy Smith from CATCO Enterprises
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Who you talk to, how you communicate, and who connects with you will be the key part of achieving success in your business. Join expert Vladimer Botsvadze as he shares expert tips on how to create your personal brand - and a world class one at that!
Listen to Episode 178 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Business owners wear many hats and depending on the size and stage of your business this can change with time. Often, we get into business because we are good at our job. We are the technician, and few people think beyond serving their customers in the beginning. Now not only do you have to deliver your product or service; you have the invoicing, marketing, sales, customer service, staff, complaints and so much more to do as well. The economy changes, rising petrol prices, insurances and so many other things.
You got into business to help people and have more time.
As a small business owner, you will need a coach, listen to Small Business Talk episode 177 to find out more.
Small Business Talk Podcast brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A common trend around business owners who need to sell a service or product is that they don’t want to feel like they are bothering their customers, or perceive themselves as a nuisance. But what if you weren’t selling, but simply giving the opportunity to buy? Expert Janeen Vosper walks us through her tips and advice for focusing on how you solve the problem to make the sale!
Listen to Episode 176 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When you’re in business, whether you like it or not you are competing with every other business like you. Your competition can be local, in the next town/state or in many cases global. If your content isn’t being seen by your ideal audience, it is hard to make sales. What every small business needs, is a marketing strategy that makes them money.
Listen to Episode 175 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
Small Business Talk with Cathy Smith, Brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We all have our favourite products to use for effective business performance - but are there better ways to do things? Expert Janine Fraser explains the benefits of using Google Products (particularly Google Workspace) to streamline the way your business works.
Listen to Episode 174 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Selling often conjures up negative feelings, “icky," sleazy and slimy. If you are not selling then how can you make sales? No sales, no business. When it comes to selling very few people wake up every morning and say selling is what I am here for, but it is essential. Today we're going to talk about ways that selling can be much more palatable and even enjoyable.
Listen to Episode 173 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
Small Business Talk by Cathy Smith Brought to you by CATCO Enterprises
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Many small business owners struggle with getting their marketing right. When budgets are a big factor, sometimes it's hard to work out how to get those new leads and sales into your business correctly. Expert Daisy McCarty walks us through her tips on creating efficient marketing practices that save you from spending all your budget and time.
Listen to Episode 172 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Like all decisions, you need to way up the pros and cons of whether to engage a professional web designer or not. Do you have the knowledge, skill and time to build your own? There are lots of things to consider when building, running and maintaining your business website. Hiring a web designer can be a great investment in your business.
Listen to Episode 171 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Business owners have a lot on their plate - it comes with the territory of running a small business! But you need to be able to have a personal life beyond your business. Follow along with guest speakers Adam Sonnhalter and Jack Mencini as they discuss tips and solutions to combat and reduce business creep in your personal life.
Listen to Episode 170 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Most business websites don’t work for the business. Some are nicely built others are old and outdated but they all have one thing in common . . . they don’t bring in leads. If your website is not working for your business, you are not alone. If your website is not making you money, you need to take a good hard look at it and figure out why.
Listen to Episode 169 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What do CEOs do that make them such successful businesspeople? What could you do to better balance your business and create sustainable growth? Expert and guest speaker Simon Severino walks us through 3 fabulous business habits that you can apply to your small business for better results.
Listen to Episode 168 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Business is busy and we often feel overwhelmed trying to fit it all in. If you are struggling to fit in everything - what could you be doing differently? You would never dream of standing a client up on purpose, so why do you do it to yourself day after day?
Listen to Episode 167 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
Small Business Talk Podcast by Cathy Smith from CATCO Enterprises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you looking at starting a new business or re-evaluating the one that you already have? Expert Sean Castrina offers some great tips you need for getting your business off the ground and ensuring you have the best chance of success. Are you prepared to plan your victory?
Listen to Episode 166 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
Sponsored by CATCO Enterprises: https://catcoent.com.au/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There are many reasons why your business is quiet and your phone is not ringing. Seasonal, weather, holidays, school holidays, spending too much time on social media without a strategy, lack of marketing, bad sales process, and many other reasons. STOP.
There are so many things, excuses, and reasons why your business is not achieving as well as you would like. You may not be getting the results that you want but let’s take a look at what you can do right now to turn things around.
Listen to Episode 165 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
Brought you by CATCO Enterprises https://catcoent.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Authentic marketing with your core values, beliefs and goals creates a unique connection with your audience that makes them more likely to buy from you. Experts Adam Bude and Cathy Smith walk you through their personal tips on marketing and sales in your business, and how to make authentic relationships that help your business thrive.
Listen to Episode 164 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you know your audience, really know your audience?
Using other people's techniques to grow your business can only go so far - and it may not even help you at all. Marketing is not a one size fits all and you can't treat it as such if you want to really succeed. Penguins can't fly, but neither can people and we fly all over the world anyway.
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 163 for the full details.
Penguins Can't Fly - Brought to you by CATCO Enterprises https://catcoent.com.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's still early in the year 2022 and we are all looking for ways to boost our income and grow our businesses. Angela Henderson talks us through her 5 most powerful strategies for the year with excellent tips on visibility, alignment and more!
Listen to Episode 162 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The pressure of being constantly productive is a problem that all business owners face. The era of social media has given us a glimpse into other people's lives and processes - but not always for the better. So how do we change our methods and disconnect in a healthy way that ensures business growth and a healthy approach? Matthew Turner offers us his perspective on the subject.
Listen to Episode 161 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How are you getting yourself - and your business - out there? How are you creating authentic connections with your audience that will grow your influence as an entrepreneur? Adam Adams talks us through his 3 pillars of influence with helpful tips and instructions on how each one can work for a small business owner.
Listen to Episode 160 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Marketing is Hard, Business is Hard, Growth is Hard. These are common statements that I hear all the time. The truth is that referrals are the best way to get people ready to buy your product then and there.
So how do you tap into referrals in a consistent manner?
Business has always been and will always be about relationships.
Listen to Episode 159 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There are many things you can learn from selling a business, even if you don't plan to sell your own immediately. Phil Fraser walks us through the important lessons that he learned from selling his business, with plenty of tips that you can apply to your own business even without selling.
Listen to Episode 158 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Struggling with overwhelm is a problem that many business owners face. The pressure of our everyday lives seems too hard! Small Business Talk's Cathy Smith gives us 5 handy steps to managing overwhelm in our daily lives and businesses.
Listen to Episode 157 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What is the best way to start attracting your ideal audience? That all depends on you, but expert Henriette Danel has a few great strategies to get your business the exposure that you need. Connecting with your potential is easier than you might think and it all starts with consistency, clarity and commitment!
Listen to Episode 156 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Content is often hard and boring or it takes too long to do!
So we just don’t do it.
The Secret to Creating 30 Days of Great Content
This can be used on one platform or multiple platforms.
What we want to do is spread the message in an interesting way but something that is easy.
Easy Content Creation
The way to make it easy is to be interviewed. Be interviewed about your topic of choice, your FAQ’s, your common problems you are being asked about all the time.
Listen to Small Business Talk episode 155 for all the tips.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you sat down and thought to yourself, 'there's got to be an easier way to do this' in regards to running your own business? Paul Higgins talks us through some easy ways to get the success you need out of your business - without wasting every spare moment of your time on scaling your business.
Listen to Episode 154 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's true: Marketing is hard! How do you connect to an audience in a way that makes them want to buy from your business over all the others who are also trying to get their attention? Word of mouth will bring you in a few sales, but you aren't thriving. What should you do?
Listen to Episode 153 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What is sabotaging your business success? It could be that you don't have the strength to say no, or that you lack the flexibility to work with problems that come your way. Darcy Luoma shares her 6 hurdles that sabotage success and talks about ways to combat these hurdles and learn from them in a way that makes you a better business owner and allows more success on your entrepreneurial journey.
Listen to Episode 152 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
Please be aware that some of the content discussed is of a sensitive nature.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What do your customers, prospects, suppliers, employees and business contacts think of when you or your business name is mentioned?
Manners are the rules and behaviour we live by and we need to use them online too. It is about using good manners in all your online communications/transactions from commenting on social media sites posts to email and your website tone. Why should we be worrying about manner especially digital manners at all? Because it will set your business apart, elevate your status and in some instances open doors that would otherwise be firmly closed.
Listen to Episode 151 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you ready to start the year with a new social media plan for your business? Here are all the tips you need to know before you get started (or upgrade) your Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram accounts to make sure you are seen by the people you need to be seen by, and how to engage with them. Happy New Year.
Listen to Episode 150b of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How much of your workload each day really needs to be done by you, and how much of your time does it take up unnecessarily? Putting effort into removing a task that may only take 2 minutes seems like a lot, but these minutes add up and suddenly you're spending your whole day on things you don't need to! Pieter de Villiers shares his tips to get rid of those 2-minute tasks from your schedule.
Listen to Episode 150 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you communicating clearly? It is important that you make sure your customers are kept in the loop. Often we are like a duck madly paddling under the water and keeping everything looking calm and serene on the top. Unfortunately, our customers can’t see this and they get worried by what they perceive as silence.
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 149 for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Business owners can face many crisis situations in their entrepreneurial careers. So what happens if you need to sell your business at a moment's notice - can you manage it, or are you completely unprepared? Amy Rose Herrick walks us through the steps to making your business sellable from the very first day, with some great tips and insights to make sure you can sell your business.
Listen to Episode 148 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As a customer we seek out the specialists, the exact one that can solve our specific problem, from medical to a mechanic, we do it every day. So as a business why do we find it so hard to niche? As another year closes we really need to be very conscious of how we are showing up.
Listen to Episode 147 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We start our small businesses hopeful that they will become big businesses, but this also means that business owners are prone to ignoring the risks that come with starting a business. Instead of brushing these ideas off and saying “no, that won’t happen to me,” you need to accept that the risks are out there and some of them may find their way into your business.
So how do you prepare for big crisis?
Listen to Episode 146 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the final months up to the holidays and the end of 2021, how are you marketing your business? Do you send Christmas cards to all your clients, partners and prospects - and then wonder to yourself, is this helping my business?
Marketing expert Oksana Koriakova joins our own Attraction Maven, Small Business Talk's host Cathy Smith, for 6 marketing tips that will elevate your business marketing.
Listen to Episode 145 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There are many reasons people decide to leave their corporate occupations to pursue life as a business owner:
More Money
More Time
More Freedom
In the first 5 years of their business, most business owners do not achieve any of these things. Matt Ward tells about how to achieve freedom as business owners without losing money and gaining time in the process.
Listen to Episode 144 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Business is built on relationships, sometimes they are built quickly and other times they take a long time. I have a client that I knew for 4 years and we saw each other occasionally at networking events before one day she rang and asked to catch up for a coffee. For another client, all it took was a 30 minute Zoom call, send the paperwork via email and boom.
So, if you can get clients so quickly why should we be trying to build relationships with our prospects?
Who Cares?
Our clients do!
Listen to Small Business Talk Podcast Episode 143 for all the details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are your business finances in a funk? Expert Scott Trevethan talks about what you need to know to get yourself out of that funk - including utilising your accountants, profit and loss, and what changes you can make to fix your numbers. Numbers are vital when running a business, so this episode is one to listen to!
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 142 for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Story Based Selling. Stories allow us to create pictures in our brains and then we can remember the main point more easily. We all love a good movie and it’s all about the main characters and their stories. Remember back at school you learnt through images, stories, and patterns. Did you learn the colours of the rainbow by ROY G BIV? Or My Very Excellent Mother Just Sent Us Noodles for planets now that Pluto is no longer a planet. Rhymes and mnemonics help us create stories to remember. Ever wondered why you can remember a story and the point that was made but not a joke and the punchline?
Listen to Small Business Talk episode 141 to find out.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What gets in the way of your life? If it's your business, that can be a huge problem. Joey Drolshagen teaches us some common pitfalls and ways to change our approach to business in a way that leaves us with more time, less stress, and an increase in success.
Listen to Episode 140 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this busy and noisy digital world, we find ourselves in we need to be able to stand out. When was the last time you looked at what you are doing on the socials? You need to be constantly tweaking and testing your marketing strategy and what you are implementing to make sure you are getting the best exposure for your business.
Listen to Episode 139 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What can make a business more excellent? Rael Bricker shares his experience as an entrepreneur and talks about mentoring, leaps of faith, and why sales is important to your outlook on business no matter what your actual focus or field is. Your business needs to be more excellent: here's how you do it.
Listen to Episode 138 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You are running ads and you feel that they are not working - but what did you want them to do in the first place? Small Business Talk's Cathy Smith walks us through the world of advertising with handy tips on goal-setting, planning, and why paid ads aren't always the magical solution that business owners think they are.
Listen to Episode 137 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Making money is a big part of owning a successful business - so why do so many business owners end up having no profit at all? Anna Kupisz talks about some of the biggest barriers to leading a happy, profitable life with a business that makes you money, and what you can do to price your product or service for success.
Listen to Episode 136 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Does 'exposed' seem like a negative word to you? Cathy Smith looks back on different definitions of a business being 'exposed' and different discussions around legal requirements, marketing, security and getting in front of the right customers at the right time. Business exposure is important now that marketing is less localised. Your business reach has no boundaries now - so where do you start?
Listen to Episode 135 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
6 figures, 7 figures, 8 figure businesses! What are the secrets to reaching the profit goals you are aiming for in your business? Stacey Hylen shares her tips and tricks to making more in your business without it taking up all your free time and energy. Marketing, sales, and mindset all play a role in success.
Listen to Episode 134 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why or How?
Which is more important to your clients and you?
We are all familiar with Simon Sinek’s “Why”. Where he goes into great detail about how people are more likely to deal with businesses that have a greater purpose a solid “why” they do business more than just making money. Simon uses Apple as his example.
“Who Gives a Crap”.
Who Gives a Crap“, is an Australian brand of toilet paper that is more than just a clever play on words. “Crap” is Australian slang for doing a “poo”.
Their slogan is – Not Your Average Toilet Paper. Saving The World, One Wipe at a Time.
Why or How? Which is more important?
Listen to Episode 133 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When a customer buys something from your business, it's not the company as a whole that they remember - it's the experience that you've given them. Jason S. Bradshaw tells us about what he learned when he began running his first business at 14, and how you can compete with big corporations without worrying about prices.
Listen to Episode 132 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What are you doing to make sure that you, your customers and your employees are staying motivated? Cathy Smith gives us some tips on being inspiring within your business, and outside of it. Does your current lifestyle give you motivation and inspiration, or have you stagnated? The only person who can make you a success is you.
Listen to Episode 131 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How is your mindset affecting your success in the business world? Sometimes our approach to sales needs to be changed through the beliefs we are subconsciously pushing into the conversation. Dario Cucci tells us about his sales transformation and how changing his business mindset and beliefs led him to success.
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 130 for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you holding yourself back, choosing not to try or challenge yourself because you are afraid to fail? Brooke Castillo from The Life Coach School calls this “Failing Ahead of Time” If you can’t / won’t / don’t do it then you can already failed! You didn’t try and you will never know if you could have done it or not. It doesn’t matter what “it” is you have still failed. No decision is still a decision, you just choose not to.Look at Failure in a Different Light
There are winners and learners.
Your “failures” are not failures if you learn something and can then apply it. Failures are and should be seen as learning experiences. Sometimes you win, sometimes you don’t but what did you learn?
The very first time I drove someone else’s car it was on a back road, way out of the way, I didn’t have my licence and had very little experience. I was very keen to show that I could do it and was very overconfident. I did ok until it came to stopping the car. I have turned into a carpark near the river area we were going to be having a picnic. We were on the top section of the river, just before the edge of a small waterfall.
Listen to episode 129 of Small Business Talk to find out what happened.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What makes a giver, and what makes a taker? It's all about how you choose to interact in the world - whether it be your business, relationships or more. E A Csolkovitz tells us a little more about how to identify givers and surround yourself with them for a better life, and how to dispel taker traits from those that you love.
Listen to Episode 128 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this crazy world of uncertainty, sometimes just winning your day can be enough to get you through.
Our host, Cathy Smith, tells us a little about what she is doing currently, and how she wins her day every day. There are many tricks to staying on-track and succeeding in your business and in life, and motivation is a big one. What are your secrets to staying motivated?
Listen to Episode 127 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
ISO standards help you with making a product, managing a process, delivering a service or supplying materials – ISO standards cover a huge range of activities. ISO stands for International Organization for Standardization. Mel Blackmore teaches us about how to use these ISO standards to scale your business and the ways it can elevate your business to make a smoother work process with your own values as priority.
Listen to Episode 126 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Facebook is still the biggest social media platform in the world, so you should definitely be using it when marketing your business. It has been around for about 17 years now and has changed quite a bit over that time. Pages, messaging, promoted ads...
There are some great ways to improve your Facebook experience to generate leads and grow connections with your audience. It all comes down to staying consistent, knowledgeable, and fostering a human connection while understanding what the platform wants from you.
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 125 for all details and tips.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today on Small Business Talk we are discussing story - What is your Story.
By making that human connection you are fulfilling the basic need of being wanted and accepted. Our story whether it is business or personal, and let's face it all story is personal. If you haven't listened to episode #121 of Small Business Talk where I talk about business being personal go back and listen to that. If your business isn't personal it should be. It is our story that draws people to us and makes them want to know more and buy from us.
Today Ian Hawkins from Ian Hawkins Coaching is interviewing me and we go deep into my story and why I do what I do.
We discussed how I came to be running my own successful digital marketing business over the last 20 years. I shared how my business has evolved from humble beginnings to where it is today. We begin with my story and life before CATCO Enterprises.
Come and learn more about my personal story, the businesswoman behind CATCO Enterprises.
What is your story - Cathy Smith & Ian Hawkins come and listen to a longer than normal episode of Small Business Talk - episode 124
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Social media is everything to a lot of people and you may be wondering whether you actually need a website. With a new social media platform popping up every 5 minutes, there are lots of shiny and exciting things to play with.
However, for the longevity of your business, you really do need a website.
If so, how do you make it work for you?
There is a guru on every corner pushing their favourite platform, system, hack and more so where should you be turning for advice?
That can be a hard question to answer because the social media and the web design/development industries are unregulated. What that means is that anyone can add a post, landing page or webinar and say they are an expert. Some of these people have been doing it for years, others 5 minutes and often the information they give is outdated or to say is plainly WRONG.
Listen to episode 123 of Small Business Talk to find out more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Experts have projected that by 2024, Australia will become a cashless society. But what does this mean for your business? Mark Grant takes us through the changes we may need to make, how this affects your bank, and some helpful advice for businesses looking to go cashless.
Listen to Episode 122 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For business owners and especially small business owners – business is personal.
Our personal lives flow into business and vice versa. For many business owners, there is little or no distinction. Whether that is a good thing or not, depends on your perspective and whether you actually have a personal life at all.
At the heart of all businesses should be a human connection that is why we have gravitated to social media in droves. Video, lives, selfies, they are all ways we can make a connection to other people and quickly.
Listen to the full episode of Small Business Talk episode 121.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Images of your products, service and you helps to sell your business in a way that non-visual marketing can't. Kyle Spyrides teaches us how to make photos taken with our phones look great, and how to stay picture-perfect without shelling out hundreds for a professional photographer.
How to Shoot Professional-Looking Photos From Your Smartphone With Kyle Spyrides, listen to Episode 120 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Email marketing may not seem as exciting when you compare it with its more flashy social media cousins but it gets results. Although email marketing comes in and out of favour it still works especially where you have an existing relationship with your viewer.
Does Email Marketing Still Work?
Campaign monitor did an analysis of billions of emails that were sent by Australian organisations in 2020 and found some interesting trends emerging. These trends should that Australian’s in particular have higher email open rates, higher click through rates and more likely to unsubscribe.
Listen to Small Business Talk podcast episode 119 for all the tips and information on whether email marketing still works?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thinking, manifesting and hoping for money is great, but taking action and making a plan is also important. Sandy Forster tells us about the beginnings of her business journey, and how she has gone from debt to wealth with the help of a powerful money mindset to achieve her business goals and invite positive changes into her life.
Listen to Episode 118 of Small Business Talk for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Self sabotage, OMG we are so often our own worst enemy.
On the verge of greatness, we cause ourselves such drama and often detrain a perfectly good plan by letting our lizard brain run wild.
You would never dream of talking to your friends in the way that you talk to yourself, you wouldn’t even say such things out loud. So why do we treat our most important business asset in that way?
Because we can – we have no one else to answer to or report in on with regards to our own behaviour and self talk.
Listen to episode 117 of Small Business Talk to find out more about Self Sabotage and How to Manage It!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is Your Business Ready for an Employee?
You may think you're ready to employ somebody, but there might be some other options you can look at first such as outsourcing certain tasks. Write down all the duties that you do in your business and what you would want an employee to do, you may find it's not an employee you need straight away.
What Should We Consider When Recruiting a New Employee?
It’s important to clearly think about all the things that they're going to need to do in their job including what type of equipment they need and the extra items you need to supply such as a desk, mobile phone, uniform, training, insurances. This can be different in different countries and from state to state, so it's important that you understand what requirements that you have in your state in relation to workers' insurances. Taking these into consideration, putting on an employee could be a cost for a period of time until they learn the job.
Listen to Small Business Talk episode 116 for all the details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Most of you will have read Simon Sinek’s “Start with Your Why” book and if you haven’t you will certainly have heard someone paraphrase it.
I was on a group call last week and we were all being asked “What is your why?” Oh, that’s easy, we all thought. You know, the casual answers Financial freedom Security for my family Availability to choose lifestyle/location Work with who you want to
Now the facilitator let a few people answer before stopping the group.
“Now that’s nice but what is your real why?”
Listen to Small Business Talk episode 115 to continue the conversation and hear all the details about what is my why . . .
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You Can Still Grow Your Business Without Having to Spend a lot of Money. Many small or small to medium-sized business owners are unaware there are a multitude of different strategies you can start using and implementing in your business that aren't going to cost you a lot of money. People assume when on social media they need to be doing Facebook advertising, which can be quite expensive. Digital advertising can be expensive when using Google AdWords and so forth. You can still grow your business without having to spend a lot of money on these paid platforms.
Small Business Talk by Cathy Smith episode 114 for all the details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For your marketing to really work you need to be talking to the right customers at the right time. Often over and over.
Why Your Marketing Isn't Working
Find out what works and how to put a structure in place for your marketing to work for you. Stop wasting your money on Hit & Miss marketing that just leaves you frustrated and exhausted. Listen to Small Business Talk episode 114 for more details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Small Business Talk podcast we turn the tables and have Alan Stevens interviewing Cathy Smith our normal host. Alan Stevens is an International Profiling Communication Specialist.
"I've been in business now for 20 years and my business is all about connecting with people, making sure that you are actually building relationships. I'm in web design and digital marketing. Relationships in digital marketing are really critical, and we've noticed that over the last 12 months in particular because even though we're online, people still like to deal with people that they know, like, and trust." Cathy said.
Clients won’t work with people they do not like.
If you cannot make a rapport with a customer, they will not want to work with you. This is good for both you and the customer – you want to go where people celebrate you, not simply tolerate you. There are 7.7 billion people on the planet, why spend time with those you do not like?
If you are not doing well with a client or business, it’s okay to step back. An abundance mindset brings more positivity to all.
Importance of Business Relationships - Connecting with Your Customers. For these tips and more, listen to episode 112 of Small Business Talk Podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We all get busy running businesses and sometimes, you just need to stop and reconnect with the foundations. On today’s episode of Small Business Talk, I want to discuss your digital business security.
Be aware and be careful of your digital business security. Protect your assets both online and offline. Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 111 for all the tips and more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The number one issue that IT services find when servicing small businesses is the lack of a functional backup system for their information. While unexciting, they are essential to keeping your data safe and accessible when needed.
Sometimes even if a business does have a backup, it does not work when you attempt to use it. Ideally, business owners will test their backup and recovery system at least every six months. Can you recover a file from two years ago without issue?
Sounds dry but it is a very important subject. Listen to episode 110 of Small Business Talk for all the details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After cash flow, communication is one of the important factors in your business. Making sure your message is clear, concise and your customers know that you have the solution to their problem.
Did you know that 68% of customers leave and change providers because they don’t feel like you care. Not because of bad services products that don’t work, solutions aren’t right but because they don’t think you care.
Communication is so much more than just your messaging. Your message is a big part but how do you deliver your message and continue to communicate will be the make or break of your business. What do you mean . . . listen to Small Business Talk episode 109 to hear all about it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As small business owners time is precious. We all have the same amount of time in a day, but why do some of us appear to have a more balanced life than others? Time management helps you organise and plan your time allowing you to work smarter, not harder. Nicola Ward is a time management coach and she gives us 4 practical techniques that we can start using straight away.
Some days the time just disappears and you get to the end of the day and think, "I've not actually accomplished anything today," Nicola says.
Listen to Small Business Talk episode 108 for the full details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There are many different ways to do a podcast for many different reasons. Before you start, think about your why. Why do you want to do a podcast? What do you want to achieve by doing a podcast? Where are you going to put your podcast and many more questions we will discuss.
There are many options for podcasting so I am going to talk about my experience doing the Small Business Talk Podcast. I started SBT 2 years ago and doing a course called 6P’s with Ray Milidoni (which is now an Udemy). Regular listeners will I did it while on a family holiday which actually turned out to be perfect timing as it allowed me the time to implement between sessions.
Listen to Small Business Talk Podcast Episode 107 for all the details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Every business has an opportunity to submit a tender. There's no stopping you in that in the sense that it's available to all businesses. Whether you're successful in putting in a compliant tender, or a winning tender will depend on the tender scope and the specification. Not all businesses would be able to comply with certain aspects of tenders and depending on the size and scale of the team and what it's for, then obviously, it's only open to certain businesses, it can provide that good or services. You need to be specific in terms of the types of tenders that you're accessing. Obviously, look at your business model, your business strategy, and then target tenders that meet that. Find out all of David's tips about tender writing and a few bonus ones on Grants too at Small Business Talk Episode 106.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Now you might think that it is going to be a dry subject but your most important business asset is your domain name, bear with me and I will show you why.
Your domain name is where your website lives and your emails should live. You can change your digital providers for both your website and emails but your domain name to the outside world should never change.
Your domain name is how Google and search engines find your website. It is how Google knows where to send its customers in search to your website as a possible solution for the query they are asking.
LIsten to Small Business Talk podcast Episode 105 for all the tips and details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wouldn't you like to know how to have an effective sales conversation? Small Business Talk guest Wendy Corner gives us some excellent tips plus a couple of bonus tips about how to convert your conversation to Zoom as well.
Some people are prepared to pivot when needed in their business and others aren’t. This comes down to communication. In your head, what are you telling yourself? What is your internal Q and A? If you tell yourself, "I can't" you're right and you won't be able to. Likewise, if you tell yourself, "I can. I may not be able to see quite how to do it now, but I can do it," then you will have that mindset. How you get there may not be direct and certainly this is the case in COVID times, but if you tell yourself you cannot get from A to B, then you won't. Say to yourself, I can get to B, it may not be the most direct route, it may be the scenic route, but I can get there.
This is a great episode of Small Business Talk and in today's climate should not be missed. Here the full episode at Small Business Talk - Episode #104
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After the excitement of a being a business owner, founder, the entrepreneur has worn off, sometimes you look back and wonder why you want into business at all.
Yes, being in business can be a romantic dream of freedom, calling the shots, having time off whenever you like not being tied to the 9-5. For some people, that is true. However, for the majority, it’s just not the case.
Today, let’s get real and talk about 4 things that could save your business and maybe your security. Listen to the full episode at https://smallbusinesstalk.com.au/103
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why Should You Have a Website at all?
In this era of social media being the thing and a new platform popping up every 5 minutes, you might be wondering whether having a website is really needed at all?
If so, how do you make it work for you?
There is a guru on every corner pushing their favourite platform, system, hack and more so where should you be turning for advice?
That can be a hard question to answer because the social media and the web design/development industries are unregulated. What that means is that anyone can add a post, landing page or webinar and say they are an expert. Some of these people have been doing it for years, others 5 minutes and often the information they give is outdated or to say is plainly WRONG.
The information is often given with the best intention however as the digital industry and Google in particular moves at lightning speed, you have to keep up.
Back to the question of where to go for advice, do your research, go by track record and previous customer recommendation. Most of all, go with your gut, if it feels wrong then it is generally is. Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 102 to find out more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How Has Your 2021 Started Off?
Have you been able to shake off the 2020 blues, or have they lingered?
Yes, I know in some countries and parts of the world the pandemic is worse than ever. And I feel for you. Many businesses have grown, thrived, and even expanded in 2020. Do you enjoy your business?
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 101 to learn more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
100 episodes I can not believe it!
What to do for the 100th Episode? When we hit 50 episodes, I thought I would have a party, however, it was Christmas time and with holidays and all, I decided to dream of maybe reaching 100 episodes and do it then. Well, this is 100 and yep it’s Christmas time again. 2020 begin such a strange and draining year meant I didn’t get it together for this episode either so what to do?
In mid-December we had a new member start on our CATCO Enterprises team, Nat. I asked Nat what he thought we should do for the 100th Episode and we chatted about a few different ideas.
In the end, we decided on a highlights reel. The end result is like speed dating on what you should be doing on social media for 2021, so hang on to your hat because it goes really fast – you might need to slow it down or listen to it a couple of times. Thanks, Nat for your editing efforts and bringing this highlights reel to life.
We hope you enjoy this special 100th Episode of Small Business Talk.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
To get your business into 2021 you need to start now. And it will take more than just goal setting and planning. With the year that was 2020 I thought in today’s episode it would be good to replay Amy van Meijl’s episode #037 Is Negative Self Talk Holding Your Business Back.
Stop wishing for the New Year to start and make it happen, your way and now. It all begins with how you talk to yourself; enjoy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
2020 The Year that Was!
This year has been so strange, heartbreaking, thrilling and full of so many emotions.
The universe is telling us to slow down, take time to smell the roses. 2020 we learnt lots (or should have) and 2021 it is time to apply those learnings.
What changes do you need to make? Stop working so hard? 7 days a is no longer expected or required. Are you trying to please everyone? Fit into someone else’s mould?
Listen to the full episode of Small Business Talk Episode 097.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Scaling up After a Challenging Business Year. This year has shown all sorts of particularly strong gaps and it’s hugely dependent on sector and how people have managed with the challenges this year has brought. Some things have been slightly different this year to normal challenges meaning you have to look at these two challenges differently. For example, if we're talking marketing, for businesses to do all their marketing and indeed delivery online have been very well placed to take advantage of the current situation, whereas if you were a bricks and mortar business, it's been a lot tougher.
Tips to Scaling Your Business with Jan Cavelle. Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 097 for the full episode on how to Tips to Scaling Your Business with Jan Cavelle.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Flick the switch because you have got this. Today, we are going to talk about mindset, business mindset.
Yodah says “ Do or Do not, there is no try”
Are you constantly saying I wish 2020 would end so we can start again? You realise that when we close this year on December 31st, January 1st will not be a magic switch that we will flick and all will be fixed. There is no magic pill, listen to Small Business Talk Podcast episode 096 for some tough love and actionable steps to make 2021 a fabulous year.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On Small Business Talk today we are talking to Amanda Walker the owner of WA HomeStay about how important it is to stick to your values, even if it means forsaking short-term profits. WA HomeStay started in around March 2018. We saw an opportunity to create a local booking platform that was fair for both owners and guests and gave back to the local community in Western Australia. We saw an opportunity to enter the market, but we didn't want to spend a fortune on it. So we had to work out how to do it in a bootstrapped manner, and we managed to do that and get our site up and running and currently have 280 properties listed on our platform and guests are obviously making reservations.
Wonderful interview, listen to episode 095 of Small Business Talk to hear our chat.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Posting on social media is a constant challenge as the algorithms and rules keep changing. When posting and asking yourself what you should post, there is only 1 person you should have in mind:
Your very best customer Your ideal customer what are they going to find valuable? What would they like to see/watch here?
No matter which social platform you are thinking of, that should be your number one objective, serve your customers/your tribe.
What to Post on Social Media, listen to Small Business Talk episode 094 to find out.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
All business problems are actually a systems problem. Today's guest is system master David Jenyns. In 2016, David successfully systemised himself out of his business, one of Australia’s most trusted digital agencies, melbourneSEOservices.com. Through this process, he became a systems devotee – founding systemHUB & SYSTEMology. Today, his mission is to free all business owners worldwide from the daily operations of running their business.
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 093 as Dave explains his 7 steps to systemising your business and guess what you as the owner don't have to do it. 7 easy steps to make your business run smoother and more profitability. Well worth a listen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Instagram is primarily a mobile app. Instagram on desktop you can watch your feed, stories etc but you can’t post from the computer. Instagram is designed to be used on a mobile phone.
How does it work, how do I get more reach and why is what I am doing now longer working?
Let's talk Instagram in episode 092 of Small Business Talk which will be 1 of a 3 part series on the latest and greatest on Instagram.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
My job is so much more than just delivering hampers. I feel very blessed to be able to deliver a product that shows someone cares. I have 2 customers for every hamper, the person that ordered it and the person receiving it that is why customer service is so very important to me.” Jackie Wickham said. Taking customer service to another level is Jackie's passion, listen to Small Business Talk episode 091 for all her easy to action tips.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Most small owners spend a lot of time worrying about their price and pricing. Many have no idea but the cost of producing their “thing” especially when you are providing a service. They spend way too many hours working and when their accounts are done at the end of the month, quarter or often year, they realise that they have been working for almost nothing – a very small hourly rate. For many small business owners, they would actually be better off having a, you know, dirty word – JOB!
So, why do we do this and what is the solution?
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 090 for the full episode on are you adding value?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Medical Scientist to an Aromatherapy, Rebecca Tichbon gives us some wonderful tips and practices that you can do to look after the most important person in your business.
Who is the Most Important Person In Your Business?
You!
Without you generally, there will not be a business. Listen to (Rebecca) Beck's insights on how we can quickly, easily and affordably look after our own well being to then help our business out. Listen to Small Business Talk episode 089, who is the most important person in your business with Rebecca Tichbon for all the details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How is your business going? 2020 has definitely been a strange year but it's not over. Use these next 70 or so days to salvage the year and make your business
Getting your business found by ideal customers can be hard, but it doesn’t have to be.
The internet is a noisy space and attracting your perfect customers is a complex task which is part science, part positioning, part customer love and part luck. To get the right balance for your exact situation is crucial.
For your business to grow and thrive you need to have a constant flow of qualified leads interested in your business’s solution, month in and month out.
Your marketing should be making you money and attracting more customers to your business, but with all the shiny objects, the endless social media options and constant emails offering this service and that; who do you trust? What should you believe and how do you even start?
Your business (and many others like you) are the backbone of our local economy and marketing local businesses has been the same process for decades.
Find people who have the pain point and the problem that your business solves, show them your solution and let them buy it.
Every business is different and the marketing strategies used for each needs to be different too. A café will have a vastly different approach to that of a computer reselling business. No matter what type of business you have, the process will be the same.
A lot of businesses fail because they don’t have an audience of qualified leads, of people that trust them and know the solution to their problems is available whenever they are ready to buy.
Are You Getting Enough Leads Into Your Business? Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 088 for all the details and the free downloadable plan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Take time throughout your year to really assess what's happening in your business, what's happening in your family, where is it you want to go? If you don't have family, then looking at where do I want to be in my life?
Re-assess and reset every year to that point and then saying, "Am I getting further to or further away from my growth goal?" Create a plan so that if you get offered an opportunity you can assess if taking on that opportunity will get you closer or further away from your original growth plan. Be conscious of what opportunities to let go and what opportunities to grab, hold on to and keep moving forward. It's being able to say no sometimes in those environments. Business Growth in Any Market means you need to keep checking in on your business. Listen Small Business Talk episode 087 for all Donna Bates tips on what to look for to make sure your business is sustainable and can grow in any market.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever wondered why some people’s businesses flourish while others don’t and often it is not a reflection on the owner’s skill or expertise levels.
“From little things big thing grow” a song by Australian song writer Paul Kelly, which is to true.
It’s the little habits that we have and do regularly that can make such a difference in our businesses. Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 086 for the full episode.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's becoming very well known that humans and people are a huge risk, if not the biggest risk when it comes to cybersecurity. It’s important to train people and staff to eliminate the risk and create human firewalls within a business. listen to Caitriona Forde is from CAIT Business Consulting. Caitriona provides cyber awareness training to small to medium size and enterprise-size customers.
Listen to Small Business Talk Podcast episode 085 for all the details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What are you doing to make sure your business survives into 2021 and beyond? 2020 has definitely been a strange year for all of us in business and the chance of burn out is very high.
The question is will your business survive and even grow in the last quarter and into 2021? There are 2 main factors that affect your business
The Business itself and You.
Listen to Small Business Talk episode 084 as we discuss who to successfully finish the year strong and move into 2021.
Remember to ask your mates RU Ok - national suicide awareness day in Australia is 10th September, listen to hear more about that too.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Remove the Word Small From Your Business. People often think of a small business being just that, but certainly here in Australia that is not the case. Our language is really telling, and if you tell yourself "I just run a small business." That in itself is limiting. Start with self image. How we see ourselves, our self-image, is important. Our self-image can limit where we go and how we see ourselves. It’s how you see yourself that is really important in changing the results that you get. It is 'dress to impress', but the person you need to impress is yourself, and how you see yourself.
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 085 for the full episode with Tracey Ward.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can you believe it is only 4 months to Christmas so that means, we will be heading into the 4th Business Quarter very soon.
How has your year been? For everyone 2020 has been a year like no other in our lifetime. For some, it has been an amazing year in business despite or maybe because of the pandemic. For others, business has been tough and not a good year at all. No matter your situation, if you are still in business, give yourself a pat on the back for getting this far.
On today’s Small Business Talk podcast episode let’s talk about how to rock your 4th Quarter in Business.
How to Rock It in the Last Quarter for Your Business
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have a Meaningful Mission, For companies to develop a good mission, a good purpose, it needs to be meaningful and not only focus only on profits. A business should focus on bringing about positive change in the environment, creating a positive impact on the world. For example, including an aspect of environmentally friendliness. The mission should include satisfying the needs of different stakeholders such as customers, suppliers, the community, the planet as a whole, so it’s win-win for everyone involved and includes activities that bring about positive change. Positive change attracts talented people. Focusing on the Human Aspect of Your Business to Make Your Business Better, listen to Small Business Talk Episode 081 for the full episode.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week when I was a “guest speaker on Small Business Talk Podcast, we touched on SEO. I have had a few requests to explain further about SEO, Search Engine Optimisation. What is it and why is SEO important for your website. So today, let’s talk about SEO.
How to Get Found on Google, On-Page SEO, Customer Focused, Off-Page SEO and more; listen to Small Business Talk Episode 080 for all the details
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cathy Smith from CATCO Enterprises tells us about website essentials what your website really needs when the tables are turned and our host becomes the guest. Learn some of Cathy's insights on websites and after having run a successful marketing business for 19 years.
Learn about content, how much text your need, what kind of photos and lots more in Episode 079 of Small Business Talk Podcast this week.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Being Busy Might Be Ruining Your Business!
Wow, that’s crazy you might say or that’s a bold statement! Well, let’s take a look at it.
No, this is not a clickbait heading I am deadly serious, being busy might be ruining your business.
Busy for Busy Sake
When you look back on your day, you were busy. Yes, most of us are every day but what did you really achieve. Did you spend your day fighting fires, putting out those little emergencies that keep coming up in the way of a phone call, email or someone popping in?
What Did You Do Today?
Did your actions really move the needle for your business or were you too busy to do the tasks that actually matter?
Classic Time Wasters or Busywork. There are some really classic time wasters and busy work traps many of us fall into. Listen to episode 078 of Small Business Talk to find out more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“No matter your industry, no matter the problem you are trying to solve for someone, you must learn how to be a great listener. Business owners are often stressed, particularly in the current economy, and I’ve guided some through really high-pressure situations, which required a solid relationship with that business owner and that all starts with being a great listener. If you work in any consultancy space where you are solving problems for business owners, you must develop a great relationship with them because you’ll need it during stressful situations if you are going to genuinely support them. ” Natasha Lie from LG Accounting Solutions said.
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 077 for all Tash's tips on The Value of Listening to Your Clients to Grow Your Business
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Digital Marketing is a very broad subject here are some tips that you won't want to miss. Today I pose 5 digital marketing questions that I get asked all the time and give you answers and tips that you can use in your business.
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 076 for all the details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Michael’s no frills approach to business allows people to focus on what they really need to take action on, which ultimately, guarantees results for his clients. A firm believer in not complicating things, the simplicity of the Million Dollar Referral System allows for quick and effective implementation and guaranteed results.
Learn to how take your business to a whole new level, through using other people's networks, contacts and communities. Because your ability to create connections and leverage your networks is your competitive advantage when it comes to business growth. Michael works with coaches, consultants and professional service business to implement the Million Dollar Referral System to generate 10-15 new qualified leads per week into your business so you can grow!
Listen to Small Business Talk podcast episode 75 for all Michael Griffiths' tips on How to Create a Million Dollar Referral System for Your Business
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Finally, Facebook is coming to the party with hashtags.
Search has always been a big problem for Facebook and they are finally going to embrace hashtags as a way to help their audience search through Facebook gigantic library of posts.
Facebook is starting to push the use of hashtags in posts to INCREASE YOUR ORGANIC REACH – Mari Smith posted on 2nd July 2020
Listen to Small Business Talk episode 074 to find out more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Time to get back our new normal.
For many people, COVID was a time for reflection and to assess how they work or do business.
The world will never be the same and 2020 will definitely go down as a landmark year in history. Now, the world is watching and in some areas, waiting to see how we will move forward. What are you doing that is different?
Listen to episode 73 of Small Business Talk Podcast for some tips to Take Advantage of the Current Opportunities for Your Business with our special guests.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Our attention span is smallest than a gold fish now which is really sad. Now, we need 20-30 touch points before making a buying decision. Make sure you are consistently posting so that they stay top of mind. Check out Small Business Talk episode #072 for what to post on social media.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When we very first start off, we tend to go to networking groups and we tend to do a lot of referral business and that's pretty good. We refer people to people we know, like and trust and they refer people to us. It becomes trying to be known as the person who knows everybody and then you'll always get asked. Business tends to grow that way and that's kind of an informal process but collaboration and joint ventures, as we grow, become projects. It means that you're actually going to move into a space with another trusted entity, another business person and then align yourself and strategise an actual formal project, formal agreement. You're going to design this product or service offering that you're both going to contribute to the marketing, you're both going to contribute your time to, then you're both going to share in the profits.
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode #071, Growing Your Business Through Collaborations with Michael Worthington for all the tips
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What Should I Post When? That is one of the most common questions I get asked? What should I post on social media? Which platforms should I post on? How often should I post?
Like everything in marketing, it depends on lots of factors: What are you trying to achieve? Who are you talking to? Who your audience is?
So when you should post on social media?
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 70 for the full episode and all the tips on when to post of social media.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode, we're going to be talking about how real customer service is more than just lip service. Learn from past bad customer experiences to know how not to treat your customers. Control your emotions in a conflict situation, plus more great tips.
Listen to the full episode of Small Business Talk Podcast #069 to find out Why Customer Service Needs to Be More Than Lip Service.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Social media is great and should be part of your business marketing however it should not be all of your business marketing. Do I even need a website?
You would never build a patio, a swimming pool and a gorgeous outdoor kitchen at a house you were just renting. That is exactly what some business does on social media. They build their entire shop front, marketing and sales system and then house it on rented ground on a social media platform that they have little control over.
Listen to the full episode of Small Business Talk Podcast #068 to find out Why Social Media Isn’t Enough for your Business.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cash flow is so important, and a lot of that is to do with our mindset.
It's one of those things that we forget to address, as business owners to be obsessed so much over the business model and numbers, and we get into the logical side of our brain, but we forget about the mindset aspect and the fact that, that can actually make or break you as well when it comes to bringing in sales for your business.
We can talk ourselves out sales if our mindset is not in the right place. They wouldn't want to deal with me. My business is too expensive. They can't afford it, and all of those negative spirals and all of a sudden you don't have a business.
Listen to the full episode of Small Business Talk Podcast #067 to find out Why Mastering Your Money Mindset Is So Essential To Building A Sustainable Business
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Branding is your identity, it makes you stand out, and it builds trust and makes you unforgettable. We interact with brands every day and so do your customers. Big businesses all started small and the ones that lasted that grew all have strong branding.
Customers pay more for strong, solid, trustworthy brands. Think about your trip to the supermarket/grocery store – what attracts you more? The known brand in the bright packaging in the prime location on the shelve or the dull plain packed home brand version hidden at the back!
Did you know that most supermarkets make more money out on shelve placement fees than they do out of selling the actual products? Why? Because strong branding and positioning are important to their customers, both the product suppliers and you, the purchasers.
Why is Branding Important for Small Business?
Listen to Small Business Talk Podcast Episode 066 to find out more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Importantly, often people don't understand their strengths and play to their strengths. We use some tried and tested tools and we grow the people in a space and environment they have an opportunity to grow and flourish. Then we also share with them the importance of why businesses need to know what skills people have, and also how people can apply their skills to help their business grow either their own business or their staff helping the business grows.
Maree Gooch is from Value Creators is our special guest on this week's episode of Small Business Talk and we are discussing how to upskill your business for growth and we discuss different ways including R&D for your business and personal upskilling.
"As a small business owner myself for 35 years I know what it's like to be lonely at the top.
I know what it's like to be able to have a group of critical friends that I can call it on and just bounce ideas off sometimes. I know what it's like to have to want to improve yourself. In my early 40s, I decided I wanted to do an executive MBA so I had jump through a few hoops to get into the University of Western Australia. Going through that process was an amazing thing I had to learn to study and all sorts of challenging things like that." Maree said
Listen to episode 065 of the Small Business Talk podcast for the full story and all the details on how to How to Upskill Your Business for Growth
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should you be marketing at this time in this climate?
Isn't that taking advantage of the situation? No.
Yes, you should be marketing, and no it's not taking advantage, if you don't, your competitors definitely will be.
First thing you need to do is think about why are you marketing?
What are you trying to tell people? And are you doing it for the right reasons?
3 things that your marketing should do.
One, it should talk to your audience, speak clearly to your target audience in their language, the right message, at the right time. Talking to everyone is talking to no one.
If you had a baby store and you were sending messages out to teenagers, I bet their parents would be a bit worried.
Or a vegetarian restaurant, sending out to meat eaters. They're not going to be overly interested or even a coffee club, sending out to avid tea people. Or a tea supplier, sending out to people that only drink coffee. As you can see, not everybody will need your product.
You need to talk to your audience and be specific about who your audience really is. The second thing you need to do is solve their problem, add value, solve their problem. Do you know what their problem is? What does your specific product or service help people do? What is their pain point that you are going to ease? And stop thinking about marketing as selling. What does your product do? How does it solve their problem?
In my other business, CATCO Enterprises, which is a digital marketing agency, we solve people's problems about the lack of customers. They don't know who their customers are They don't know how to talk to them Or where they might hang out.
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 64 - Marketing Your Business In The Covid-19 Climate for all the details
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You can really start by getting some ideas down on a piece of paper. There can be a real over-complication with business planning. In the first early stages, it's really about working out whether this is something that you love, and you would like to look to have a commercial element to it. Whether it’s a hobby and it is just something you love and you want to focus on that. Get some thoughts down on a piece of paper about where you would see it going, what you think the potential opportunities are. Form of a mind map rather than a bland boring business plan that you might submit to a bank to try and get finance for example.
Listen to the full episode of Small Business Talk Podcast #063 Is it the Right Time to Be Starting a Business?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How is your Business Going to Survive COVID-19?
Expand or shrink, how is your business going to survive COVID-19?
Whether your business is open or closed you need to be thinking about how to turn this situation into an opportunity.
We can’t change the situation we face but we can change how we react to it. Are you seeing grey storm clouds or a silver lining ready for the taking?
Listen to Small Business Talk episode 062 to find out how to make the most of COVID-19 for your business.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today's guest is Kareena Preston and she is the owner and a soap maker at Krieitiviti Natural Handmade Artisan Soaps.
They are a small, artisan business producing small batch, hand made, cold process natural soap, in Perth, Western Australia.
Kri:ei’tiviti was borne out of the need for a skincare product with natural ingredients that is kind to my sensitive skin. After much research and many trials, they have developed a range of all natural soaps that are safe and healthy for our bodies.
One Passion to Another - Is Your Hobby Ready to Be a Business - Kareena Preston.
Plus we learn a little bit about soap and how we can help to prevent Covid-19
Listen to the full episode of Small Business Talk Podcast #061 One Passion to Another - Is Your Hobby Ready to Be a Business - Kareena Preston
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, we are going to talk about the Coronavirus – CONVID 19 that has affected many people in the last few weeks of March 2020.
Please Stop and Breathe.
What is your reality?
I am not going to talk about the right or wrong of what has happened and continues to happen. We all have our own personal opinion on that. What I want to ask you is what is your reality, what are you making this all mean for you, your family, your friends, your business and your future?
Are you spending all your days refreshing the news – 60 times an hour, listening, reading and grabbing at every snippet you can get your hands on and spiralling into an even deeper state of gloom and doom. STOP IT.
Listen to the full episode of Small Business Talk Podcast #060Fear, Future and Moving Forward, - Covid-19
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What Is A Growth Engine?
In a service-based business, the idea of a growth engine is to put systems and processes in place that allow your business to continue to grow mechanically. And what we mean by that is that; a machine has predictable behaviour, because it has all the right parts, moving together. When you turn a machine on, for example, a vacuum cleaner, it kind of does what you expect it to do. However, most of our businesses, when you turn a small business on, most of them don't behave in a way that we expect them to behave. That's just because human beings get involved and we like to complicate things, and we get distracted. So, the more consistent and the more standardized you can make your business, then the more chance you have of turning it into a growth engine, that is something that you turn on and it behaves in a predictable way.
Listen to How To Turn Your Business Into A Growth Engine with Troy Dean Episode 59 of Small Business Talk Podcast for all the details
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
By 2020, more people will have mobile phones than running water or electricity at home.
11.5 million users in Australia – approx. 40% of Australia's population is on Facebook. 244 million people in the US, 307 million in Europe and 45 million in the UK so an approximate total of 2.5 Billion active monthly Facebook users worldwide.
Is Facebook Still A Good Marketing Tool - absolutely.
Listen to episode 58 of Small Business Talk to here the complete discussion on the pros and cons of using Facebook for Small Business.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today's guest is Victoria Lioznyansky, Victoria teaches introverted entrepreneurs and business professionals how to overcome their fear of public speaking and become confident, compelling, captivating speakers.
How to overcome your fear of public speaking, the most important thing is to change your mind set about public speaking. The truth is people are always looking for shortcuts, they're always looking for some tips and tricks. Everybody's like, "Well, just tell me what to do." It's not about how you walk and talk on stage. It's not about how you gesture. It's not about how you show up on video. It's not about how you show up on podcasts. It's not about you, believe it or not. When you change your mindset that it's not about you, it's about your audience, that's when shifts start to happen.
Listen to Small Business Talk Episode 57 for these tips and more on how to overcome your fear of public speaking with Victoria Lioznyansky.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What Are You Waiting For to Let Your Business Shine?
One more course
One more day
One more…
Fill in the blank
What is stopping you and your business from truly shining?
When will you push record, publish, pick up the phone and call?
Stop and just do it.
Is Perfectionism Holding Your Business Back?
Listen to Small Business Talk Podcast Episode #056 for all the details.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.