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A challenging personal experience can sometimes reveal a much bigger opportunity. In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business, Paul Sweeney speaks with Elysia Krstevski, founder of MEKE Baby, about turning a problem as a new mum into a product and a growing business. Her journey offers practical lessons for anyone developing a product, testing an idea or trying to take a business to its next stage.  After working her way from receptionist to co-CEO at Stage School Australia, Elysia brought years of hands-on business experience into a completely different industry. The idea for MEKE Baby came after she found herself unable to conveniently warm expressed milk while out with her baby. Instead of accepting that frustration, she began researching whether there could be a better solution.  In this episode, you'll learn: How a personal problem can reveal a genuine opportunity in the marketWhy customer research and listening to feedback matter from the very beginningWhy launching a good product can be more valuable than waiting indefinitely for perfectionHow MEKE Baby evolved through multiple product upgrades based on real customer needsHow Elysia built market validation through direct-to-consumer sales before securing retail distributionWhy thinking internationally early can influence product developmentHow looking at the business by months and quarters, rather than obsessing over daily results, can support more considered decision-makingElysia's story is a reminder that building a successful product rarely happens in one perfect leap. It involves research, experimentation, customer conversations, persistence and a willingness to improve as you go. If you're sitting on an idea, developing a product or trying to prove your business is ready for bigger opportunities, this conversation offers an honest look at what that journey can involve. Elysia Krstevski is an award-winning Australian entrepreneur and founder of MEKE Baby, a premium baby technology brand redefining the standard of feeding. A former CEO who scaled Stage School Australia to 27 locations. Elysia has built her career around innovation, growth and challenging the status quo. Her achievements include Telstra Small Business State Winner for Product Innovation, Top 50 in E-commerce, Top 50 Business Leaders, CommBank Young Hero Product Innovation Winner and Westpac Top 5 Trailblazer. Today, she is focused on building MEKE Baby into a globally recognised brand. www.mekebaby.com This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

Starting a business can feel overwhelming, particularly when you are moving into an industry you know little about. In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business, Paul Sweeney speaks with Shelly Kul, founder of Kashkiya, about leaving a successful 20-year corporate IT career to create Australia’s first dedicated mother-and-daughter clothing brand. Her story shows why taking the first step, listening to customers and learning as you go can be more valuable than waiting until you have everything figured out. What You’ll Learn: How Shelly Kul identified a gap in the market and turned a personal idea into a businessWhy too much research and overthinking can prevent you from getting startedHow pop-up shops helped validate the product and provide valuable customer feedbackWhy a great product will not sell unless people know it existsWhy stock management, marketing, supply and operations must work togetherHow incorrect pricing can produce sales without producing profitShelly Kul’s journey is an honest reminder that successful businesses are not built by having all the answers from day one. They are built by taking action, learning from mistakes and making changes quickly. If you have been sitting on an idea or waiting for the perfect time to begin, this episode will encourage you to test the opportunity, understand your market and take the first step. Shelly Kul is a Mum of 2 and the founder of Australian fashion brand, Kashkiya. Inspired by her two daughters who always wanted to match with her, Kashkiya offers high-quality matching dresses for Mums and their daughters with the hope of turning every day moments into precious memories.  www.kashkiya.com.au This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

What happens when your biggest customer leaves, your leads dry up, or the platform driving your sales changes the rules overnight? For many business owners, those moments expose just how vulnerable their business really is. In this episode, Paul Sweeney sits down with entrepreneur Jellaine Dee, who grew her business from a weekend market stall in Brisbane to an international beauty brand generating more than $10 million in annual revenue before selling to private equity. Along the way, she deliberately built multiple revenue streams, expanded into international markets, and created a business that didn't depend on her being involved in every decision. If you're worried about relying too heavily on one customer, one product, one marketing channel, or even yourself, this conversation offers practical insights into creating a more resilient and valuable business. In this episode, you'll learn: Why relying on a single source of revenue can put your business at risk How Jellaine turned a simple market stall into a global brand The importance of testing ideas and multiplying what works Why diversification should extend beyond products to customers, markets, and sales channels How building systems helped remove owner dependency The role cash flow plays in funding growth opportunities Why private equity values diversified businesses more highly How to create a business that provides freedom instead of becoming a prison What makes a business attractive to buyers Why bigger customers can sometimes be more valuable than more customersJellaine's story is a reminder that successful businesses are rarely built on a single product, customer, or channel. By creating multiple paths to revenue, putting systems in place, and thinking strategically about growth, business owners can build stronger, more valuable businesses that provide opportunities instead of limitations. Whether you're looking to scale, improve profitability, or eventually exit, this episode offers practical lessons from someone who has successfully done all three. Jellaine Dee is a global retail strategist, entrepreneur and founder of Mogul Methods. After building Cherry Blooms into a beauty brand generating more than $10 million in revenue and expanding into eight countries, she now helps product-based businesses secure ranging with leading retailers, scale through wholesale and expand into international markets. www.mogulmethods.com.au LinkedIn This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

Most business owners dream of building a business that can thrive without them, but very few achieve it. In this episode, Paul Sweeney sits down with Dr Michael Filosi, who transformed a rundown dental practice that had possums living in the walls into one of Adelaide's largest dental clinics before selling it in just 81 days. This conversation is packed with practical lessons about leadership, growth, culture, delegation, and creating a business that has genuine value beyond its owner.  What you'll learn in this episode: Why successful business owners see opportunity where others only see riskHow small "quick wins" can create momentum and drive major changeThe importance of building a coalition of supporters within your teamWhy business owners must stop being the bottleneckHow to transition from technician to true business ownerThe role of systems, leadership and delegation in business growthWhy your best employees may be better than you at certain aspects of the businessWhat makes a business attractive to buyersHow Michael built a business that was ready to sell long before he decided to sell itIf you've ever wondered how to move from being the person doing all the work to being the leader of a valuable business, this episode is a must-listen. Michael's story proves that business success rarely comes from one big breakthrough. It comes from making smart decisions consistently over time and building something that can succeed without you. Books mentioned in the episode: The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara Built to Sell by John Warrillow The E Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber Want to know if your business is ready to sell? Check out our free tool:  How valuable is your business? Get your score! Dr Michael Filosi is a dentist, exited founder, entrepreneur and self-confessed business nerd. Ten years ago Michael bought a worn out dental practice with possums in the walls that nobody thought had a future and successfully scaled it into the biggest dental practice in Adelaide.  Last year Michael sold his business to private equity, overseeing the process himself and receiving offers from four different private equity firms in the process. LinkedIn Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

Have you ever looked at a project and thought, "Everything says we're on track, but something doesn't feel right"? The budget appears fine, the team is busy, and progress reports look positive. Yet deadlines keep shifting, decisions are taking longer than expected, and the scope seems to be growing without anyone formally approving the change. In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business, Paul Sweeney sits down with project management consultant Richard Broo to discuss why projects rarely fail overnight and how business owners can identify the warning signs before small issues become costly problems. Drawing on more than 40 years of experience, including work with major organisations such as Toyota and General Electric, Richard shares practical strategies that small and medium business owners can apply to improve project outcomes.  What you'll learn: The early warning signs that a project is drifting off courseWhy communication breakdowns create costly misunderstandingsHow poor scoping and inadequate planning lead to scope creep and budget blowoutsThe importance of monitoring costs, timelines and staff capacityHow to identify risk triggers before they become major issuesWhy successful projects focus on delivering value, not just completing tasks Throughout the conversation, Richard explains why many businesses wait too long to seek help and how a lack of discipline around planning, reporting and accountability often leads to avoidable delays and overspending. He also shares practical ways to bring teams back into alignment, uncover the root cause of problems and get projects moving in the right direction again. Whether you're leading a major business transformation, implementing a new system, or managing day-to-day operational improvements, the lessons in this episode can help you avoid common mistakes and improve your chances of success.  Richard Broo  has spent more than four decades helping organizations recover projects that are over budget, behind schedule, poorly scoped, or at risk of failing. His work spans Fortune 500 companies, mid-market firms, and private-equity-backed businesses across manufacturing, packaging, automotive, medical equipment, construction materials, consumer goods, and electronics. He is often brought in when internal teams are stuck and leadership needs clear, practical solutions. As founder of True North PMP Consulting, Richard works inside client organizations to identify the root causes of project failure, restore clarity and accountability, and help teams bring complex projects back under control. www.truenorthpmpconsulting.com LinkedIn YouTube   This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

You may have years of experience, a strong track record and a proven ability to help clients. But if the market cannot quickly understand your value, you can still find yourself chasing opportunities and repeatedly explaining why you are the right person for the job. In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business, Paul Sweeney speaks with Henry DeVries, publisher of Indie Books International and a contributor to more than 200 business books. They explore how writing a book can help business owners clarify their expertise, build trust and attract better-fit clients. More importantly, they explain why the finished book is not the final goal. It is the starting point for speaking opportunities, podcast interviews, referrals and stronger business conversations. You’ll learn: Why a book can be a powerful authority-building tool for professional service providersHow becoming an author can help potential clients understand and trust your expertiseWhy you do not need to write your book aloneHow interviews, workshops, articles and voice recordings can become source materialWhy your first draft should focus on ideas rather than perfectionHow to identify your niche audience and the specific problem your book will solveWhy client stories are one of your most valuable hidden assetsHow a book can open doors to speaking engagements, podcasts and referralsWhy you only need to become well known to the right audience, not everyoneHow to break the book-writing process into manageable stepsHenry DeVries also shares a four-question framework for starting strategic conversations with potential clients: clarify the goal, identify hidden assets, uncover roadblocks and share a relevant success story.  If you have ever thought you should write a book but felt short on time, confidence or writing experience, this conversation offers a practical way forward. You may already have the raw material in your client experiences, workshops, articles and ideas. The next step is to organise that knowledge into a tool that helps the right people recognise the value you bring. Henry DeVries is a freelance journalist, ghostwriter, and bestselling author. The author of twelve marketing books and a columnist for The California Business Journal, he is a partner at Indie Books International. Prior to that he helped double revenues as president of an Ad Age 500 PR agency and was a vice president of marketing communications that doubled awareness for a $5 billion insurance company. After serving as adjunct marketing faculty and the assistant dean of continuing education at the University of California San Diego, he has been a ghostwriter, co-author, and publisher of more than 300 business books. [email protected] www.marketingwithabook.com This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

With so much attention on AI, automation and business systems, it's easy to assume that better technology will automatically lead to better outcomes. But what if the real constraint to growth isn't the tools you're using, but how you make decisions when the pressure is on? In this episode, Paul Sweeney sits down with Dr Sarah Choudhary, founder, AI expert and author of The Sirr Code. After more than 20 years building AI systems for large enterprises, Sarah shares why business performance ultimately comes down to the human side of decision-making. Together, they explore how founders can make better choices, avoid decision fatigue and use AI more effectively without becoming overwhelmed by information. In this episode, you'll learn: Why more data doesn't always lead to better decisionsHow pressure impacts the way business owners think and actThe hidden cost of decision fatigue and how to reduce itA simple framework for prioritising decisions based on risk and importanceWhy many AI projects fail despite having the right technologyHow to brief AI tools like you would a new team memberHow high-performing founders structure their decision-making processesA powerful framework for setting up a business with AI from day oneWhether you're embracing AI, leading a growing team or simply looking to make better business decisions, this conversation offers practical insights you can apply immediately. Dr Sarah Choudhary brings together decades of experience in artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship and human performance to remind us that no technology can replace clear thinking, sound judgement and self-awareness. This episode will challenge the way you approach business decisions and help you build a more focused, resilient and effective business. Dr Sarah Choudhary has been a prominent figure in the industry for over a decade, helping organizations leverage technology to achieve their goals. She has been recognized with numerous awards for her contributions to the field of AI and digital transformation and was named to the 2024 Marquis’ Who’s Who List. She is the CEO of ICE Innovations, creating innovative solutions for daily life such as ICEride, iChef, and Sprawberry.  LinkedIn www.sarahchoudhary.com Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

Most business owners know their people matter, but sales, customers, delivery and cash flow often take priority. The problem is that unresolved people issues rarely stay contained. They can lead to poor performance, staff turnover, lost knowledge and owners spending too much time putting out fires. In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business, Paul Sweeney speaks with Dee Benno about treating people management as a core business discipline rather than a soft skill. They explore how small businesses can create greater clarity, accountability and trust without needing a large HR department. What you’ll learn: How people problems create hidden financial and operational costsWhy promoting your best performer may not create your best managerThe warning signs that your informal people systems are no longer workingWhy clear roles and accountability are essential for business growthThree questions every employee should be able to answerHow to reduce the risk of losing knowledge when a key employee leavesWhy effective HR advice must account for how the business actually operatesThe people side of your business does not need to become a complicated project. It does, however, need structure and attention. This episode provides practical starting points for building a stronger team, reducing owner dependency and protecting the business you have worked so hard to create. Dee Benno works with small businesses, associations, and HR teams of one by going beyond surface-level problems to create stable, repeatable HR strategies that make organizations better. With a focus on finding the real source of disconnection and creating intentional HR systems that are based on integrity, reliability, and follow-through, Dee cuts through the chaos to strengthen what's working and redesign what isn't to harmonize existing operational systems with people operations and organizational leadership. Dee acts as an advisor, leader, and consultant, helping directors, leaders, and business owners navigate HR challenges to make sound strategic decisions that support their people and the organization they work for. With project-based support, grounded guidance, and attention to compliance, Dee helps organizations map a way forward that aligns with their mission. LinkedIn [email protected]   This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

Most business owners think cybersecurity is a technology problem. They invest in software, antivirus programs, stronger passwords, and IT support, believing those tools will keep them safe. But what if the biggest cybersecurity risk in your business isn't your technology at all? In this episode, cybersecurity expert Robert Siciliano explains why cybercriminals are increasingly targeting people rather than systems, and why understanding human behaviour may be your strongest defence against fraud, scams, ransomware, and data breaches. In this episode, you'll learn: Why intelligent and experienced business owners still fall victim to cybercrimeHow cybercriminals use trust, distraction, and human psychology to gain access to businessesWhy traditional cybersecurity training often fails to change behaviourWhat Robert calls the "human blind spot" and how criminals exploit itHow to build a "strategic human firewall" within your businessThe importance of security appreciation rather than security awarenessPractical ways to help employees become a defence against cyber threats instead of a vulnerabilityWhy personal cybersecurity habits directly impact business securityRobert shares more than 30 years of experience studying cybercrime, human behaviour, and online fraud. Rather than focusing on technology, he explains why the most effective security strategies start by helping people understand the risks they face in their personal lives and how those same risks translate into the workplace. This conversation challenges common assumptions about cybersecurity and provides a fresh, practical approach that every business owner can implement. Whether you're concerned about ransomware, payment fraud, phishing attacks, or protecting your team's data, this episode will help you rethink how cybersecurity works and what you can do to make your business more resilient. Robert Siciliano is a private investigator, Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), and the CEO of Protect Now, LLC. As one of the nation’s most trusted voices on cybercrime and identity theft, he has built an unparalleled media track record, appearing on over 500 television shows, contributing to over 1,000 radio programs, and being featured as an expert source in over 3,000 articles. A fierce advocate for personal and professional security, Robert is the architect of the CSI Protection certification and a bestselling author who strips away technical jargon to deliver ‘straight talk’ solutions. His expertise is regularly sought by every major network—including CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, and The Today Show—where he empowers millions of viewers to protect their data, privacy, and wealth from modern threats. LinkedIn www.protectnowllc.com This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

Most business owners think growth comes from more sales, more customers, or working harder. But what if some of your best growth opportunities are already sitting right in front of you? In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business, Paul Sweeney speaks with entrepreneur and investor Michael Weinhouse about how strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and simple business conversations can unlock significant growth opportunities. Drawing on his experience building Logical Position into a company with more than 700 employees and 5,000 clients, Michael shares practical lessons on identifying hidden value and positioning a business for long-term success.  In this episode, you'll learn: Why many business owners miss valuable growth opportunitiesHow strategic partnerships can lead to powerful business growthWhat makes an acquisition successful and when it makes sense to pursue oneHow AI can help uncover opportunities and hidden value in your businessWhy a wave of retiring business owners may create acquisition opportunities for growth-minded entrepreneursThe importance of culture, relationships, and trusted advisors when making strategic business decisions Whether you're looking to grow, acquire, prepare for a future exit, or simply get more value from what you've already built, this episode will challenge the way you think about business growth and opportunity. Michael Weinhouse is the Founder and Co-Chairman of Logical Position, an Inc. 500 digital marketing agency grossing an 8-figure revenue with more than 700 employees supporting over 5,000 clients across North America. He has also built and invested in ventures across logistics, energy, and other industries. LinkedIn - personal LinkedIn - company www.logicalposition.com This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

Why do some businesses with talented people and a clear strategy still struggle to get results? In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business, Paul Sweeney speaks with leadership expert and author Dr André Martin about why team performance isn't driven by strategy alone. It's driven by collective confidence, the shared belief that people can succeed together. Drawing on his experience with organisations such as Google, Nike, Mars, and Target, André shares practical insights that business owners can use to build stronger teams and better cultures.  What you'll learn: Why inspiration drives stronger performance than engagement How small wins create momentum and confidenceThe leadership behaviours that shape culture Smarter approaches to hiring and developing people The concept of borrowed brilliance and how to apply it The impact of remote work and AI on team performanceIf you want to build a business where people perform at their best and work together more effectively, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can implement immediately. Be sure to check out André's new book, Collective Confidence, for a deeper dive into these concepts. Dr André Martin is an organizational psychologist who has been Chief Talent Officer at Google, Nike, Mars, and Target — building the leadership teams behind some of the largest growth, transformation, and turnaround efforts in corporate history. The through line was always the same: results don't stall because of bad strategy. They stall because leadership teams aren't aligned, aren't operating at their highest and best use, and aren't building the belief required to win. André fixes that. As Chief Experience Officer at LEAD3R and author of the award-winning Wrong Fit, Right Fit, he works with scrappy entrepreneurial founders and CEOs of multi-billion-dollar enterprises to build teams that believe they can achieve more together than any individual could alone — and then prove it. His approach is direct, evidence-based, and built for leaders who need their team to perform now. LinkedIn Get André's book Collective Confidence This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

Most business owners have valuable experiences, lessons, and insights to share, but many struggle to communicate them in a way that connects with others. In this episode, Paul Sweeney speaks with communication and storytelling expert Robert Kennedy III about how business owners can uncover their signature story and use it to build trust, credibility, and stronger relationships. What you'll learn: Why everyone has stories worth telling The difference between storytelling and simply sharing information The Challenge, Catalyst, Change storytelling framework The Moment, Meaning, Message frameworkHow everyday experiences can become powerful business stories Why storytelling helps people understand and trust your business The two essential stories every business owner should knowIf you've ever felt like your story isn't interesting enough or struggled to explain the value you provide, this episode will give you practical tools to communicate with greater clarity and confidence. Robert Kennedy III  wants to live in a world where people are no longer afraid to confidently tell their stories...and they can also eat Reese's Peanut Butter cups for every meal without any repercussions.  His work as a keynote speaker and trainer in the area of leadership communication has led him to work with organizations such as the US Coast Guard, Barnes & Noble, Social Security Administration, Panda Restaurant Group, AARP, T-Mobile, and UNCF as well as appearances on Fox, CW and other networks. He is involved in his community through various boards including the school boards, Association for Talent Development Maryland Chapter, youth leadership programs and helping non-profits conduct mock interviews. He is also a professional member of the National Speakers Association. LinkedIn YouTube www.robertkennedy3.me www.robertkennedy3.com This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

Most business owners have heard that "the money is in the list." But building an email list is only the beginning. The real challenge is staying in touch with prospects and clients without sounding pushy, salesy, or becoming the business everyone unsubscribes from. In this episode, Paul Sweeney sits down with email marketing strategist Ely Delaney to unpack a simpler, more effective approach to email marketing. They discuss how to build trust, create genuine relationships, and stay top of mind so that when people are ready to buy, they think of you first. If you've ever struggled with follow-up, wondered what to send to your email list, or felt uncomfortable marketing your business, this episode is packed with practical advice you can put into action immediately. What You'll Learn: Why most email marketing failsHow to build trust without being salesyThe biggest lead magnet mistakes businesses makeWhy people buy when they're ready, not when you're ready to sellA simple strategy to re-engage inactive contactsHow to write emails that people actually want to readEmail isn't dead. Bad email marketing is. In this practical conversation, Ely shares simple strategies that can help you get more value from the relationships you've already worked hard to build.  Ely Delaney is the creator of the Follow Up Rockstar System, helping entrepreneurs build a 24/7 automated system and go from surviving to thriving in any economy. He’s an Amazon bestseller with his books “Marketing Tidbits” and “Networking Tidbits” & his program “Networking Like A Rockstar” has over 1416 students globally. LinkedIn www.elydelaney.com This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

Most business owners work hard, grow their revenue, and build something valuable—but still feel uncertain about their numbers. Pricing feels like guesswork, cash flow is unpredictable, and when it comes to valuing the business, there’s no real clarity. In this episode, Paul Sweeney sits down with Jeff Glick to unpack why this happens and, more importantly, how to fix it. If you want to make better decisions, improve profitability, and ensure your business is truly worth what you think it is, this conversation breaks down the practical steps to get there. It’s not about doing more work; it’s about building the right financial structure to support the business you already have. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why many profitable businesses still struggle with financial clarityThe difference between basic bookkeeping and a true financial infrastructureHow poor or inconsistent numbers can reduce your business valuationWhat it really means for a business to be “bankable”The hidden risks that buyers and lenders look for during due diligenceWhy financial management should be treated as an investment, not an expenseThe simple foundational steps to improve cash control and reportingHow to identify and fix the biggest financial risks in your businessWhy looking at your business as if you were selling it can improve performance todayAt the heart of the discussion is a clear message: better numbers lead to better decisions. When your financial systems are accurate, timely, and aligned across the business, everything improves—from cash flow and profitability to trust from buyers, lenders, and your team. Ultimately, this episode challenges business owners to stop treating finance as a compliance task and start using it as a strategic advantage. Because whether you plan to sell your business or not, the businesses that invest in their financial infrastructure are the ones that grow faster, operate with more confidence, and achieve far greater value over time. Jeffrey Glick leads U.S. operations for Outsourced CFO firm and has spent 30+ years in the trenches helping founders, CEOs, and boards increase company value — especially when they’re preparing for Series funding, business loans, or a potential exit. Jeff has been a CFO for hedge funds, private equity firms, SPACs, and high-growth companies, and now works hands-on as a fractional CFO, helping businesses get “investor-ready” before they need capital. LinkedIn www.ocfo.com This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

When your business feels overwhelming, it’s easy to assume you need more discipline, more motivation, or bigger goals. But what if the real solution is the opposite? In this episode, Paul Sweeney speaks with Dr Christiane Schroeter about how small, repeatable actions—not big bursts of effort—are the key to restoring clarity, reducing burnout, and building real momentum. If you’ve been stuck, overthinking, or constantly busy without progress, this conversation will help you simplify your approach and start moving forward again. What you’ll learn: Why overwhelm often comes from goals that are too big—and how to “deflate” them into achievable first stepsThe importance of connecting your goals to your personal values and why that drives real motivationHow the “Petite Practice” framework turns small daily actions into consistent progressWhy action matters more than perfection—and how to remove the pressure to get it right the first timeHow to focus your time and energy using priority and urgency instead of trying to “manage time”The hidden cost of holding onto low-value tasks, and how letting go creates space for what mattersWhy communicating your goals creates accountability and attracts the right support around youIn this episode, the message is simple but powerful: you don’t need to overhaul your business overnight to make progress. By taking small, intentional steps—consistently—you can regain clarity, protect your energy, and build a business that moves forward without burning you out. Start small, stay consistent, and let momentum do the rest. Dr Christiane Schroeter helps leaders build real confidence and move through change with clarity and momentum, one small step at a time. A TEDx speaker, Fulbright Scholar, professor, and bestselling author featured in Business Insider, she hosts the Top 1% Happy Healthy Hustle podcast. LinkedIn YouTube www.doctorchristiane.com This episode is supported by the Business Planning Operating System. My 9-module course is built from 30 years of experience as an accountant, giving business owners a simple, one-page 90-day plan they'll actually use. Learn more at thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/focus Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram