Boosting Sales with AI-Powered Quizzes – The Future of Customer Engagement

The Business Behind Your Business

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13:44

Legendary actor and mental health advocate Glenn Close is on a quest to change how we think about mental health, starting with her decision to speak out about her own family's struggles — a brave choice considering the stigma that pervades the topic. This week, we're revisiting this sweeping conversation with TEDWomen curator Pat Mitchell, where Close shares the inspiration behind the advocacy group she founded to combat the crisis, underscoring the transformative power of community and the critical need for comprehensive mental health care systems. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey ! Become a TED Member today at https://ted.com/join Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

about a year ago 26:51

MP3•Episode home

Are you struggling to generate high-quality leads without spending a fortune on marketing? 🚀 In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business, we uncover a game-changing strategy that can double or even triple your lead conversion rates—without increasing your marketing budget! Our guest, Maxwell Nee, Chief Revenue Officer at ScoreApp, reveals how quiz marketing is helping businesses attract, engage, and convert the right customers effortlessly.

💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ Why traditional lead magnets like PDFs and discounts aren’t enough anymore
✅ How quiz marketing can convert leads at 20-40%—far better than standard marketing tactics
✅ The secret to understanding your ideal customers without wasting time or money
✅ How AI-powered tools like ScoreApp automate and optimize lead generation
✅ Practical, low-cost strategies that any small business can use today

Maxwell breaks down real-world examples and shares expert insights into how small and medium-sized businesses can stop wasting marketing dollars and start attracting ready-to-buy customers. If you’re looking for a smarter, more effective way to grow your business, this episode is a must-listen!

Get your FREE copy of the Scorecard Marketing book here: www.scoreapp.com/book

Maxwell Nee is the Chief Revenue Officer of ScoreApp,a Quiz Marketing
Platform with 7,000 paying clients. He's also a multi-award winning
entrepreneur, bodybuilder & dancer. He’s been featured in TV, Radio,
Forbes, Singapore’s The Business Times & The Australian Business Review.

Maxwell's LinkedIn

Maxwell@Scoreapp.com

Ph +61 438 988 879

ScoreApp Socials:

https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/
Connect with us:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Twitter
Instagram

175 episodes

#Business #Hosted by Paul Sweeney #Advisors #Growth #Small Business #Business Tips #Business Advice #MBA #Entrepreneur #Experts #SME

The Business Behind Your Business

Boosting Sales with AI-Powered Quizzes – The Future of Customer Engagement

The Business Behind Your Business

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Get your FREE copy of the Scorecard Marketing book here: www.scoreapp.com/book

Maxwell's LinkedIn

Maxwell@Scoreapp.com

Ph +61 438 988 879

Book a call with Maxwell

ScoreApp Socials:

https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/
Connect with us:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Twitter
Instagram

175 episodes

#Business #Hosted by Paul Sweeney #Advisors #Growth #Small Business #Business Tips #Business Advice #MBA #Entrepreneur #Experts #SME

All episodes

The Business Behind Your Business

1
Inside the Minds of Your Customers: Using Values to Drive Business Growth 33:34

5 days ago33:34

33:34

Why understanding your customer’s values can unlock serious business growth Are you missing the mark with your customers—and don’t even know it? In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business , host Paul Sweeney sits down with marketing strategist and author Chris Peterson to explore a transformative idea: your customers’ personal values—specifically whether they lean conservative or liberal—can dramatically shape how they engage with your brand, products, and messaging. Drawing from decades of global marketing experience and his book Red and Blue Customers: How to Drive Growth and Manage Risk in Today’s Conservative and Liberal Markets , Chris explains how businesses often impose their own worldview on customers, instead of seeing their business through the customer’s eyes. He outlines how liberal and conservative values influence buying behaviour , innovation adoption, trust, and even geographic marketing strategies. You’ll also learn why most businesses fail when trying to scale beyond early adopters—and how to avoid that trap. Whether you're launching a new product, trying to improve your messaging, or struggling to connect with a particular market segment, this episode gives you a powerful new lens to understand your audience—and boost your bottom line. Takeaways include: How personal values influence customer behavior more than demographics Why liberal vs. conservative thinking impacts innovation adoption Easy ways to identify the value makeup of your current customer base How to tailor your marketing to align with customer worldviews—without getting political What sales and marketing teams can learn from their contrasting value systems Get Chris's book here - Red and Blue Customers: How to Drive Growth and Manage Risk in Today's Conservative and Liberal Markets Chris Peterson is the Co-Founder of Lifemind, an AI-agent platform designed for national, local, and regional marketers. With over 30 years as a marketing pioneer and entrepreneur, Chris has founded two digital marketing agencies, working with both fast-growth startups and Fortune 500 companies. In the 1990s, he launched one of the first digital direct marketing agencies, earning recognition from The Wall Street Journal. Publicis Groupe later acquired the agency. Chris later established an early content marketing agency before the term became mainstream, which was then acquired by Rain, a direct-to-consumer advertising agency. In 2020, Chris discovered Pew research highlighting the deep divide in how Democrats and Republicans perceive the world. This insight led him to explore how political beliefs shape consumer behavior, and was the genesis for Red & Blue Customers. He and his family live in Milan, Italy. www.lifemind.ai LinkedIn Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
From Survival to Strategy: Michelle Campbell on Taking Control of Your Business Finances 31:03

12 days ago31:03

31:03

Financial literacy isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a survival skill for business owners. In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business , host Paul Sweeney speaks with tax expert and financial educator Michelle Campbell about the hidden financial pitfalls entrepreneurs often face, and how a lack of financial understanding can quietly sabotage your business. Whether you’re avoiding tax obligations out of fear, struggling to understand cash flow, or unsure how to invest while in debt, this conversation is your wake-up call. Michelle shares not just her professional insights but her personal story of financial recovery — one that began by confronting unopened bills and grew into a mission to empower others through practical financial education. She offers honest, jargon-free advice on tax, budgeting, business planning, and the importance of building emergency savings. Listeners will walk away with clarity, encouragement, and a deeper understanding of how mastering money can mean the difference between thriving and just surviving. This episode is for every business owner who has ever felt overwhelmed by the numbers — and wants to turn confusion into confidence. Get Michelle's book here: Bluebird Michelle Campbell was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, and began her educational journey in South Dakota before relocating to Atlanta, Georgia, to continue her studies. During her academic pursuits, she launched a real estate investment firm, marking the beginning of her entrepreneurial path. Over the years, Michelle expanded her ventures into various industries, including horticulture, where she founded an interiorscape company, and logistics, where she established a commercial trucking business. Drawing on the insights and expertise gained across these diverse fields, she transitioned into a career in the financial services industry. Michelle is also the author of Bluebird , a memoir that candidly explores themes of trauma, heartbreak, and the resilience found in life’s struggles. She is also the founder of a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals through financial literacy and fostering economic stability. She enjoys traveling, cooking, exploring diverse cuisines, organizing, dancing, indulging in spa treatments, and spending quality time with her cherished Pomeranian. ByMichelleCampbell.com Facebook Instagram TikTok X YouTube LinkedIn Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

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From Clicks to Customers: Practical E-Commerce Tips for Growth 32:15

19 days ago32:15

32:15

Ready to sharpen your e-commerce strategy and stay ahead of the curve? In this episode, Matthew Stafford joins us to share real-world tips and forward-thinking advice to help business owners thrive in the ever-evolving world of online retail. With years of hands-on experience, Matthew offers a clear perspective on what it really takes to succeed in e-commerce today — and why now is one of the most exciting times to be building online. You’ll learn: Why starting simple can give you a big competitive edge The smartest way to use data and customer feedback to shape your store Tips for increasing your sales conversion rates Why staying focused on the customer experience is crucial If you’re running an e-commerce business — or thinking about starting one — this conversation will give you the clarity, confidence, and practical tools to move forward with purpose. Matthew Stafford Over the past three decades, Matthew Stafford has been entrepreneurial and successfully building several businesses across various industries, including Concrete, Brick and Mortar Locations, POD, and Software-based ventures. Matthew Stafford, the Managing Partner of Build Grow Scale and an equity owner of some in-house Ecommerce brands, has knowledge and expertise, enabling him to mentor thousands of store owners through paid Ecommerce groups and live events. His experience has also allowed him to help hundreds of ecommerce brands scale past the million-dollar mark - with many hitting the $10 million mark. To top it off, he's been speaking on stages about ecommerce optimization for the past seven years! In fact, before COVID-19, BGS hosted the largest yearly Ecommerce-focused event in North America - BGS LIVE. Book a call www.buildgrowscale.com Personal: Facebook LinkedIn Instagram X Business: X Facebook Instagram YouTube LinkedIn Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
Scaling Soulfully: How Stephen Ridley Built a Global Music Movement 50:32

26 days ago50:32

50:32

What happens when you stop following the rules—and start following your passion? In this inspiring and insightful episode, Stephen Ridley shares how he built a globally recognized music brand, grew an online academy that now teaches over 1.2 million students, and turned personal passion into a thriving, purpose-driven business. Whether you're an entrepreneur or creative professional, Stephen’s story offers a powerful blueprint for building something truly meaningful from the ground up. What You’ll Learn: How Stephen turned live performance into global visibility—and business momentum The key to growing a loyal, international audience with emotional connection Lessons on authenticity, branding, and standing out in a saturated market How Ridley Academy scaled to 40 countries and over a million students What it really means to build a brand based on purpose, not just product Stephen’s journey is proof that building a business with heart can also be smart—and that you don’t need to fit the mold to make a massive impact. Stephen Ridley is a world-renowned British pianist, composer, and visionary in modern piano education. His journey from a high-flying investment banker to a global musical sensation is as remarkable as his performances. At the age of two, Stephen discovered his passion for the piano, receiving formal training at eleven, but it wasn’t until he left the corporate world that his true artistry flourished. Beginning as a street performer on the streets of London, his raw talent and electrifying performances quickly garnered international attention, propelling him onto some of the world’s most prestigious stages. Over the past five years, Stephen has toured across 60 countries, amassing a global fan base of over one million people and generating more than 500 million views on social media. His performances have mesmerized audiences from intimate private gatherings to large-scale concerts, including Monaco Yacht Week, London Fashion Week, and Uzbekistan’s largest concert in history, where he played for 28,000 people. Stephen’s ability to blend classical brilliance with modern showmanship has led him to perform for royalty, including Queen Elizabeth II and numerous royal dignitaries, as well as alongside A-list celebrities such as Anderson .Paak, Sting, and Keanu Reeves. In Russia alone, he performed over 400 concerts, including at Dom Musica, one of the world’s most prestigious music halls, after securing three No.1 chart hits in the country. Beyond his career as a performer, Stephen is revolutionizing piano education through the Ridley Academy. With a mission to make learning piano accessible to everyone, he has distilled his years of experience into an intuitive step-by-step system, enabling students of all ages—from 5 to 95—to master the piano. Today, over 1.2 million students across 40 countries are benefiting from his unique approach, redefining the way the world learns music. Stephen is more than just a pianist—he is a global artist, an innovator, and a passionate educator, bringing the magic of music to audiences everywhere. LinkedIn www.ridleyacademy.com Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
How to Negotiate Like a Pro – Lessons from Wendy Minne 25:21

5 weeks ago25:21

25:21

Negotiation is more than winning—it’s about creating value for both sides. Many business owners struggle with negotiations, relying on outdated strategies that often lead to conflict or lost opportunities. Whether you're dealing with vendors, partners, or internal stakeholders, your ability to negotiate directly affects your bottom line and professional confidence. In this episode, you’ll learn how to negotiate with clarity, calm, and confidence — even if you don’t consider yourself a “natural” negotiator. Host Paul Sweeney shares a powerful and practical conversation with Wendy Minne, an experienced corporate manager turned business coach. Wendy unpacks why negotiations feel so uncomfortable for many of us, and how mindset shifts and a structured approach can help you get better results without burning bridges. You’ll discover: Why many business leaders avoid negotiation — and how to reframe it The “cost of not negotiating” and how it quietly drains your business A simple three-part framework Wendy uses to help clients prep for tough conversations How women in particular can navigate common negotiation traps Whether you're renegotiating contracts, managing procurement, or setting client expectations, this episode will equip you with tools to advocate for what you want — and feel good doing it. Book mentioned in the episode: The Third Alternative by Dr Stephen Covey Paul also recommends this book: Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In by Roger Fisher and William Ury Check out the previous episode featuring Wendy: Ep 110 The Journey from Corporate to Small Business Wendy Minne is accredited in Organisational Coaching and a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coaching Federation. Her activities include coaching senior manager initiatives as well as young leader development. Wendy benefitted from coaching during her corporate career, and she is passionate about coaching for success at all levels. Wendy’s area of specialisation in coaching is supporting leaders and potential leaders, particularly engineers, through change and transitions. It can be confronting when engineers transition from being the expert to leading others. They step back even further from their area of expertise when they are leading leaders. Wendy has a corporate background that includes extensive experience in leading teams through change and transition. With her understanding of the business environment and her coaching skills, Wendy supports clients through a journey of self-discovery to find strengths-based solutions and develop as leaders. www.novamentis.com.au LinkedIn Email wendy.minne2@gmail.com Phone 0413 433 808 Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
Legal Pitfalls That Sink Small Businesses—And How to Avoid Them 29:43

6 weeks ago29:43

29:43

If you're a small or medium-sized business owner, this episode could save you from costly legal missteps that threaten your business's growth—or even its survival. Legal expert Matthew Fornaro joins the podcast to highlight the essential contracts and legal strategies that many entrepreneurs overlook in their rush to launch or scale. Whether you're just starting out or already running a business, you’ll learn how to lay the legal foundation to protect your operations, reputation, and revenue. What You'll Learn: Why your business plan is a legally powerful document—not just a planning tool The 10 contracts every small business should have in place How missing legal steps early on can hurt your chances of getting a loan or surviving an audit What to know about doing business across state or national borders The difference between minimum compliance and real protection How to set up a business structure the right way from the beginning Matthew also shares personal stories from his own transition from big law firms to running his own legal practice, plus practical insights from mentoring business owners like you. If you've ever wondered whether your contracts, agreements, and structures are truly protecting your business—you can’t afford to miss this episode. Matthew Fornaro is a seasoned business law attorney and founder of Matthew Fornaro P.A., serving South Florida since 2003. He specializes in contract disputes, with expertise in intellectual property. Additionally, he mentors entrepreneurs, teaching programs like FastTrac NewVenture and the Jim Moran Institute. Subscribe to the Fornaro Legal newsletter and get the eBook 10 Contracts Every Business Needs www.fornarolegal.com LinkedIn Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
Rethinking Pay: Why Your Top Talent Might Be Eyeing the Exit 42:37

7 weeks ago42:37

42:37

If you think pay is just about numbers, think again. In today’s talent-short market, the way you compensate your people could be the reason they leave—or why they stay and thrive. In this episode, Trudy MacDonald, award-winning business leader and Managing Director of TalentCode HR, pulls back the curtain on remuneration. She explains why most businesses are getting it wrong and what you can do to build a pay strategy that actually works. Whether you're struggling with attracting top talent, keeping your best people, or motivating your team to hit new levels of performance, this conversation is your wake-up call. Trudy shares real-world insights and practical steps that will help you stop the guesswork and start building a smarter, fairer, and more effective approach to pay. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why traditional pay models are failing in today’s workforce—and what’s replacing them The biggest mistakes leaders make when designing salary and bonus structures How to create a pay framework that motivates performance without damaging culture What it means to move from “paying for presence” to “paying for value” Why market benchmarking might be misleading—and how to use it the right way How to talk about money openly with employees and build trust in your remuneration process Trudy’s go-to framework for strategic remuneration design in small and medium businesses Pay isn’t just a cost—it’s one of your most powerful business levers. Done right, it drives retention, performance, and loyalty. Done wrong, it quietly erodes your culture and profitability. Trudy MacDonald offers a fresh, human-centric take on how business owners and leaders can rethink pay to fuel growth and keep their top talent engaged. If you want your team to work like they own the place—start by paying them like it matters. Check out Trudy's previous episode here: Ep 152 - From Burnout to Brilliance: Transforming Workplace Culture Trudy MacDonald has worked extensively with Boards, leaders and leadership teams over the past 20 years and is a sought-after coach to leaders across industries. She is an experienced CEO, an established business leader and thought leader in the areas of strategy, people, and culture. She specialises in empowering organisations to become great by maximising the performance and productivity of their people. She is a multi-award-winning speaker having been honoured as “Speaker of the Year” by the world’s largest CEO network – The Executive Connection (TEC). Trudy is a regular speaker to Leaders and Boards and regularly presents on the topics of strategy, high performance organisations and leadership at Industry Associations, Conferences and Corporate Events. Her career is founded on an education in Organisational Psychology and spans Australia, New Zealand, the USA and parts of Asia. www.talentcodehr.com.au LinkedIn Instagram Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
Business as Unusual: Thriving in a Changing World 32:47

8 weeks ago32:47

32:47

In today’s fast-changing business landscape, survival isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s about adapting, innovating, and thinking long-term. In this episode, we sit down with Rick Yvanovich, an experienced entrepreneur and business strategist, to explore what it takes to thrive in an era of constant transformation . Whether you're a start-up founder or an established business leader, this conversation will help you rethink traditional business practices and embrace a more resilient approach to leadership and decision-making. Rick shares valuable insights on why there’s no such thing as "business as usual" anymore , emphasizing the need for agility in response to changing legislation, economic conditions, and technology. He also delves into the importance of resilience, sustainability, and continuous improvement, drawing inspiration from Japanese business longevity models. Additionally, he highlights the critical role of mindset and leadership, explaining why business owners should take action instead of waiting for external solutions. A major takeaway from this episode is the value of external accountability and support . Rick discusses how independent advisors, non-executive directors, or external mentors can provide objective feedback, reduce stress, and help business owners make better strategic decisions. He also shares his perspective on personal branding and succession planning, encouraging leaders to separate themselves from their business to ensure long-term success. Key Takeaways: ✅ Why "business as usual" no longer exists—and how to adapt ✅ The secret to business longevity: resilience and sustainability ✅ How to develop a proactive leadership mindset in times of uncertainty ✅ The power of external support and accountability in decision-making ✅ Why curiosity and continuous improvement are critical for business success ✅ How personal branding plays a role in ensuring long-term business survival Get Rick's book: Business As Unusual - How to Thrive in the New Renaissance Rick Yvanovich is a true master of the business coaching craft. His proven track record of helping companies and individuals achieve unprecedented levels of success is a testament to his unparalleled ability to combine business experience with coaching interventions. Through systematic processes and unwavering commitment to employee empowerment, Rick translates vision into actionable steps that propel his clients forward towards their goals and milestones. www.rickyvanovich.com LinkedIn FaceBook YouTube Instagram Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
Trapped in Your Business? How to Escape the Hub-and-Spoke Model 12:55

9 weeks ago12:55

12:55

If you're a business owner who feels overwhelmed, overworked, and constantly in the thick of everything, this episode is a must-listen. Host Paul Sweeney takes a deep dive into the "hub and spoke" model—a common but problematic setup where every decision, task, and communication flows through you, the owner. While this might seem manageable in the early stages, it quickly becomes a bottleneck to growth, profitability, and your personal freedom. In this insightful solo episode, Paul outlines how to recognize the warning signs that your business is overly dependent on you . He walks you through practical steps to redesign your business systems, delegate effectively, and reclaim the time and freedom you originally set out to achieve. Learn how to assess your current setup, use tools like virtual assistants and automation, and get access to a free Value Builder score to help evaluate and grow your business without burning out. Whether you’re stuck in the day-to-day or looking for ways to scale smartly, this episode offers clear, actionable strategies to create a business that thrives without you having to be in the centre of everything. Check out these past episodes referred to in this podcast: Ep 161 Hiring Smarter: The Power of Virtual Assistants in Business Success Ep 147 Scaling with Structure: Garrett Delph on Fixing Chaos in Business Try the Value Builders Quiz and find out how to increase the value of your business (and escape from the hub-and-spoke business model). You'll receive a free report! Paul Sweeney Chartered Accountant & Business Advisor, launched Pretium Solutions after a long and successful career in accounting and business advisory. Paul credits his passion for small business with growing up in country NSW, where family-run businesses were the cornerstone of everyday life. For Paul, the driving force behind The Business Behind Your Business was to make high end, proactive, directed and value-based advisory services available to small to medium businesses. Paul brings to the table decades of experience as a highly qualified accountant and business advisor at every level of business. Through consulting, coaching and on-the-ground training and operations, his focus is on unlocking the untapped potential for greater profitability. Paul’s qualifications allow him to pair strategic advice with an advanced understanding of taxation and compliance matters. www.pretiumsolutions.com.au Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
Surviving and Thriving in a Crisis: Lessons from a Crisis Management Expert 34:22

10 weeks ago34:22

34:22

Are you prepared for the unexpected? Every business will face a crisis at some point—whether it’s a PR disaster, a supply chain breakdown, or a financial emergency. But the difference between businesses that survive and those that struggle often comes down to preparation. In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business , host Paul Sweeney sits down with crisis management expert Stephanie Craig from Kith Consulting to discuss how businesses can build resilience and respond effectively when things go wrong. Stephanie shares her deep expertise in crisis management, explaining what defines a crisis, why preparation is key, and how businesses can protect their reputation and operations when faced with the unexpected. She dives into the importance of leadership in crisis response, the value of having a crisis team, and how to approach decision-making under pressure. Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies to ensure they are not caught off guard when a crisis strikes. Whether you're a small business owner or a corporate leader, this episode will help you stay one step ahead in safeguarding your business. Sign up for Stephanie's Crisis of the Month newsletter . Stephanie Craig , has built her reputation as a crisis expert by guiding some of the world’s most prominent people and organizations through their most trying moments. Combining her deep experience in politics, media and business, she mitigates crisis, repairs reputations and inoculates against future crises. Stephanie has counted former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, the mayor of the nation’s 10th largest city and some of the most notable global brands as clients. When not handling crisis, Stephanie supports causes she cares about by helping to establish the groundbreaking group — I Am ALS and chairing the Force to End Harassment in Advocacy as an effort during the #Metoo movement. In her career, Stephanie has guided media organizations, Fortune 50 tech companies and members of the House and Senate in the United States and Canada through some of their most trying days. She sharpened her crisis skills on several campaigns including three presidentials. She is a battleground specialist and likely the only person to have worked in both houses on Capitol Hill and Parliament Hill. www.kith.co Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
Fixing Your “Frankenstein Business” – How to Attract the Right Clients 28:25

11 weeks ago28:25

28:25

Are you attracting the right customers for your business, or are you stuck in a cycle of working long hours for clients who aren’t the right fit? In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business , host Paul Sweeney sits down with Marama Carmichael, CEO of Oracle Tree, to uncover why so many business owners struggle to find their ideal customers—and how to fix it. If you’re tired of feeling like your marketing efforts aren’t working or that your business has drifted away from your original vision, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you turn things around. Marama shares how many entrepreneurs unknowingly create what she calls a Frankenstein business —taking on any client that comes their way, working unsustainable hours, and losing sight of their purpose. She explains why defining your ideal customer is critical for business success and breaks down practical strategies using her Marketing Tree framework. From clarifying your messaging to choosing the right marketing channels, Marama provides a step-by-step approach to help business owners attract high-quality clients and build a brand that truly resonates. By the end of this episode, you’ll learn how to refine your marketing strategy, avoid common mistakes that waste time and money, and create a business that supports your goals—rather than one that drains your energy. If you're ready to take control of your marketing and build a business that aligns with your vision, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Get Marama's book here: Fixing Frankenstein - How to take the monster out of running our small business Marama Carmichael is an industry-leading business growth consultant, digital strategist, mentor and author. As CEO of Oracle Tree an award winning digital marketing agency and with over 25 years of experience in business, she knows what it takes to build digital strategies that convert. She is dedicated to helping business owners work smarter (not harder!) to reach ambitious growth milestones and tackle business obstacles head-on. She is highly skilled at helping people get to the core of what is important to them and tap into their own set of unique talents and natural strengths to leverage them for growth. Professionally, she is driven by her passion to help the world prosper through giving back. She is the author of Amazon Best Seller : "Fixing Frankenstein - How to take the monster out of running our small business" Marama lives on the Gold Coast in QLD Australia, and in her free time loves Latin dance and, of course, the beach. LinkedIn www.oracletree.com Free lunchtime workshops Oracle Tree resources Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
Revolutionizing Board Meetings: How Zeck is Changing the Game 28:11

12 weeks ago28:11

28:11

One of the most time-consuming and frustrating challenges faced by businesses are meetings, and especially board meetings. From chasing down reports to dealing with last-minute changes and version control issues, the process can quickly become a logistical nightmare. And what a headache (and waste of time) it is reading a slide show on your phone and then seeing the same presentation in the meeting! But what if there was a way to streamline this process, eliminate chaos, and save hours of valuable time? In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business , host Paul Sweeney speaks with Robert Wolfe, serial entrepreneur and founder of Zeck, a company revolutionizing the way board meetings are conducted. Robert shares insights from his experience founding and growing companies like Moosejaw and CrowdRise, both of which were successfully acquired. He discusses the challenges of traditional board meetings—often time-consuming, stressful, and inefficient—and how Zeck reimagines the process to be more engaging and productive. Robert highlights the importance of strategic decision-making, effective communication between leadership teams and boards, and why investing in better systems early on is crucial for business success. He also shares how Hollywood actor and business partner Edward Norton became deeply involved with Zeck, contributing to its mission. Whether you run a small business, a non-profit, or a start-up, this episode offers valuable takeaways on improving decision-making, streamlining meetings, and embracing modern solutions for long-term success. Robert Wolfe is the founder and former CEO of Moosejaw and CrowdRise. More recently, Robert started Zeck. Zeck is entirely reimagining the miserable board meeting process. Robert started Moosejaw in a tiny shop when he had really big hair. Moosejaw’s aim was to make retail and e-commerce fun and engaging and they also pressed their own Moosejaw brand, which became pretty cultish, in a good way. Despite being incredibly foolish, Moosejaw was acquired by Walmart. No one can believe it but it’s true. Robert wanted to make sure he had some sort of decent impact, so along with his smarter brother, Jeffrey, and actor and philanthropist, Edward Norton, he launched CrowdRise. CrowdRise focused on making giving back notable, cool and social. CrowdRise eventually became the largest fundraising platform four non-profits in the US and was acquired by GoFundMe. After spending time as an operator running board meetings and, on the other side of the table, as a board member, Robert launched Zeck to change the process entirely. Zeck transforms the dynamic between the leadership team and the board, making board meetings strategic and forward thinking. Never again will you get into a board meeting to have a deck that you already read, read back to you. Such a waste of time. Robert has no interests or hobbies and is a terrible sleeper. He has been an advisor to several companies and is faster than Usain Bolt at replying to any message. But, publicly Robert only boasts about his Honorable Mention for ‘Best Breakdancer Using an Old School Cardboard Mat’. Also, ‘for’ is spelled incorrectly above on purpose. www.zeck.app Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
Sales Without the Sleaze: How to Win More Clients with Authentic Follow-Ups 28:59

13 weeks ago28:59

28:59

Struggling to close deals? Losing potential customers because you’re not following up effectively? You’re not alone—most business owners and entrepreneurs give up after just two or three follow-ups, missing out on massive sales opportunities. In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business , sales expert Jacob Hicks shares why consistent follow-up is the secret weapon for increasing conversions, building stronger client relationships, and ultimately growing your business. If you’ve ever hesitated to follow up because you didn’t want to be "pushy," Jacob has the strategies and mindset shifts you need to change your approach—and your results. Jacob brings his years of sales experience to break down: ✅ The 10x10 Follow-Up System that keeps you top-of-mind without annoying your leads ✅ How to use CRM tools to automate and streamline follow-ups ✅ Why most sales happen after the 9th follow-up —and how to make sure you don’t stop too soon ✅ How to follow up with authenticity so you build relationships, not just transactions Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or salesperson, this episode will give you practical, actionable techniques to improve your follow-up game and close more deals—without feeling pushy. Jacob Hicks is a coach and keynote speaker with over a decade of experience transforming lives and businesses. Thanks to 10 years in sales, Jacob has a knack for identifying what drives lasting success and delivering implementable strategies to help clients achieve it. Podcasters love working with Jacob because of his practical insights and engaging storytelling that leave audiences inspired. Known for his strong follow-up systems and mindset-driven coaching, Jacob empowers clients across industries to overcome challenges, implement sustainable systems, and move forward with confidence. www.jacobhickscoach.com Facebook LinkedIn Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

1
Mastering Supply Chain Management: Insights from Kerim Kfuri 27:40

14 weeks ago27:40

27:40

Struggling with supply chain issues? Wondering how disruptions could impact your business—or how to prevent them? You’re not alone! Supply chains became a hot topic during COVID-19, but they remain a critical factor in business success today. Whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or industry leader, understanding how supply chains work (and how to manage them) can save you time, money, and major headaches . In this episode of The Business Behind Your Business , host Paul Sweeney sits down with Kerim Kfuri , a seasoned supply chain expert, to unpack the challenges and opportunities businesses face when managing supply chains. Kerim explains how supply chain disruptions impact pricing, inventory, and cash flow —and shares practical strategies to make your business more resilient. 💡 Key Takeaways from This Episode: ✅ Why supply chains matter more than ever (even post-COVID) ✅ The biggest risks to your supply chain—and how to prepare for them ✅ How small businesses can avoid costly supply chain mistakes ✅ The role of AI and automation in modern supply chains ✅ Why outsourcing supply chain management can be a game-changer Don't wait until your supply chain breaks to take action! Tune in now and learn how to future-proof your business. Get Kerim's book Supply Chain Ups and Downs Kerim Kfuri is a global entrepreneur, ever-curious, ever-growing, and ever-learning. Throughout his career, Kerim has spearheaded numerous ventures that have significantly impacted the supply chain industry, all committed to innovation and excellence. Kerim has written the first of many books, Supply Chain — Ups and Downs, and is genuinely passionate about sharing his knowledge in classrooms with students studying supply chain management and at industry conferences. Kerim's career has spanned across a diverse range of sectors, including technology, retail, entertainment, real estate, spirits, packaging, sports equipment, medical, import/export, and banking. Kerim has held notable positions at NASD/FINRA (National Association of Securities Dealers), Accenture, SEC, Friedman Billings Ramsey, and 24/7 Media, contributing to his broad understanding of the business landscape. For more than 2 decades Kerim has served as President/CEO of The Atlas Network, LLC, a global supply chain enterprise. Contact Kerim here: LinkedIn Website YouTube Facebook Support the show https://thebusinessbehindyourbusiness.com/ Connect with us: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram…

The Business Behind Your Business

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