The Network

Brutal honesty about business Apr 28, 2024

Click here to support mine and Sam's new podcast Infraction by Subscribing, Rating & Reviewing.

Business on a Beanbag episode description:

How hard actually is it to own a business?

Join your hosts Adam Baskill and Tom Bates as they dive into the vibrant business mind of Adam Callow CCO of The Growth Foundation.

Adam C has a wealth of experience starting businesses, growing businesses and helping entrepreneurs to reach their full potential.

Making mistakes, no matter how catastrophically big, is absolutely fine as long as you learn from them. We also discuss how important it is to be brutally honest with not only yourself, but your employees and stakeholders.

The Unseen Beauty of Scaling Back with Sam Wilcox Apr 11, 2024

Episode Overview:

In this engaging episode, Adam catches up with Sam Wilcox. Beyond the warmth and casual banter lies a profound conversation about personal growth, business reevaluation, and the quest for simplicity.

Sam shares his rollercoaster journey through the entrepreneurial landscape, from expanding a business to embracing minimalism in work and life.

This episode isn't just a catch-up between friends; it's a deep dive into the lessons learned from confronting ego, the allure of public validation, and the ultimate realisation that sometimes, less truly is more.

Key Takeaways:

The Ego Trap: Sam discusses the challenging decisions he faced as he scaled back his business, addressing how ego and public perception influenced his journey.
Simplicity and Satisfaction: The conversation turns to the beauty of simplicity—both in business operations and personal aspirations.
Vulnerability in Public: Sam reflects on the double-edged sword of "building in public" and the pressures of sharing only the wins.
The Power of Pause: Taking a break allowed Sam to reassess his goals and rediscover his passions, emphasising the importance of space and curiosity in personal growth.
Looking Forward: The dialogue wraps up with thoughts on future aspirations, underpinned by a newfound appreciation for the present moment and the small, fulfilling aspects of daily life.

Recommendation: This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of professional and personal aspirations. Sam's journey reminds us of the power of stepping back, reassessing our paths, and finding joy in simplicity.

How I do my quarterly review Apr 06, 2024

Measure what matters with John Doerr- well worth your time: https://youtu.be/L4N1q4RNi9I?si=Dosg0NSL1dxxmcRM
Great episode of My First Million to: https://youtu.be/rcEXzUMd-rg

*AI powered Show Notes Below*

When I realised that my calendar was more of a chaotic collage than a roadmap to my aspirations, I knew it was time for a change. Enter the personal quarterly review—a game-changer that brought my daily hustle into sharp focus, aligning my actions with my deepest convictions.

This episode is a candid exploration of that transformative experience. I open up about the meticulous time tracking and management techniques that shone a stark light on the disparity between my intended path and the one I was actually treading.

I dissect the philosophy behind saying "no" with intent, and how a "default no" policy is the gatekeeper of my calendar, ensuring that only the commitments that spark a resounding "yes" claim my time.

How to set and mercilessly pursue our goals amidst life's curveballs.

(01:23 - 02:30) Personal Quarterly Review Time Management

(05:44 - 06:46) Effective Time Management Through Prioritisation

(09:17 - 11:20) Achieving Fitness for Long-Term Health

(13:50 - 15:22) Time Management Framework for Prioritizing

Reflections after dinner last night with 'The Network' Mar 23, 2024

AI Powered show notes:

(00:00) Community Networking Dinner Reflections

This chapter finds me reflecting on the value of community and connection after a network dinner, despite a restless night on the couch due to my son's minor injury. I explore the importance of finding your tribe and the energy that comes from being surrounded by like-minded individuals who are striving to better themselves both personally and professionally. Sharing insights from the evening, I touch on the rewarding experience of deep discussions, the benefits of vulnerability, and the plans to expand our gatherings to include speakers and workshops. I also share some key takeaways jotted down during my uncomfortable night, emphasising that these points resonated with me and could be beneficial to our listeners who couldn't attend the dinner.

(03:43) Importance of Finding Your Tribe

This chapter I reflect on the unique challenges and joys of being an entrepreneur, emphasising the importance of finding a community that understands the journey. I share insights from a recent gathering where fellow founders discussed the relatable struggles and the sometimes isolating path of entrepreneurship. We consider the idea that success is not just about reaching milestones but also about enjoying the process and recognizing that the journey itself is the destination. I explore the inherent contradiction in setting ambitious goals while also finding fulfillment in the day-to-day grind. The conversation culminates in the realization that the pursuit of entrepreneurship is continuous, with new peaks always on the horizon, and the true reward lies in the work and growth experienced along the way.

(12:34) Therapy, Entrepreneurship, and Self-Awareness

This chapter we explore the transformative power of therapy in gaining self-awareness and confidence, and how understanding oneself can lead to profound personal changes. I share my journey through therapy, highlighting the importance of perseverance in finding the right therapist and the value of being open and authentic about one's challenges. Additionally, I touch on the significance of talking to someone you trust, even if it's just to be heard, before potentially seeking professional help. We also discuss the concept of attraction in business, using a story to illustrate how adopting a consultative approach with clients, rather than a transactional one, can build trust and move the focus away from price. This strategy can lead to better, more fitting opportunities and the idea that 'people chase things that move away from them' can be an effective mindset when engaging with potential clients.

(21:53) Engaging Audience Feedback and Participation

This chapter, I discuss upcoming plans to enrich our podcast with guest speakers, workshops, and roundtable discussions on specific topics, culminating in a communal dinner. I'm eager to receive your feedback, whether it's praise or constructive criticism, as it will help me tailor the content and better label our episodes. So, your input is invaluable—drop me a message, let's start a dialogue. I'm here to ensure you get the most out of each episode, whether it's an interview or a solo monologue. Remember, your engagement shapes our journey. Stay connected, stay active, and I'll catch up with you soon.

You've already won. Mar 19, 2024

"I haven't seen my family in 2 years and 6 months."
Last week, as I wrapped up my final meeting in Dubai, a casual taxi ride back to the hotel turned into one of the most memorable and reflective moments of my trip.
The driver greeted me with a warm smile that immediately drew me into conversation.
It turns out even in Dubai I can't hide my lack of Football knowledge, as the chat kicks off with 'what team do you support?". He's an Arsenal fan and went on to let me know how the Champions League is shaping up.
He shared a dream of his, to walk around the Emirates Stadium, 'one day', he said with a twinkle in his eye.
He's been in Dubai for 2 years and 6 months, working from 4 pm to 4 am, 7 days a week.
Once he's covered his living costs through his commissions and tips, no salary, he sends everything else home. His real home, not where he rests his head in Dubai, but where his family is back in Ethiopia.
As he talked about his family I could feel both the pride and pain in his words.
He flashed his phone towards me as I sat in the back of his cab to show me a beautiful photo of his family, his wife and two young daughters.
This short taxi ride has made a mark on me. Here are two takeaways I want to share:
🥇 You've already won.
If you're healthy. Have people in your life you love uncoditionally. Have a roof over your head and never go hungry. You've won. It's as simple as that. The rest is incremental so do your very best (and I know it's hard) to keep life in perspective.
Here's how I try to do this. Every day over my morning coffee I write down three things i'm grateful for, from the morning squeeze I get off my boys to the fact a friend dropped me a WhatsApp to say 'Checking in, how are you pal?'.
❤️ 'In a world where you can be anything, be kind'.
It's easy to see someone smiling and assume they're ok, but we've all had those days where we've put on brave face and feel really tested.
The truth is we don't know what people are going through, the sacrifices they're making or battles they're silently fighting. So do your best to approach every interaction with kindness and empathy; you don't know the impact it may just have.
I hope something here has resonated with you. If it has, hit share. Someone in your network just might need to read this today.
✅ Swipe over to your messages and check-in on someone you care about. I promise you this is one of the simplest, most rewarding habits you can ever build.
Stay well. Speak soon.
p.s if you're someone that's fighting a battle silently, the biggest gift you can give someone is the opportunity to be there for you when you're struggling. The first step of reaching out may sound daunting, but give someone that gift today and I promise you'll both feel the benefit. You're not alone. Don't forget it.
#Gratitude #Kindness #Empathy

"Should I explore content marketing?" - Listener Question Jan 30, 2024

AI Driven Chapters & Show Notes Below

Content Marketing for Removals and Storage

This chapter addresses whether a traditional removals and storage company should venture into content marketing or stick to its established methods. I share insights on the effectiveness of content marketing for generating brand trust and discuss the AIDA framework—Attention, Interest, Desire, Action—as a guide for converting awareness into sales. We consider the importance of understanding your product's place in the market and whether your audience needs education on what you offer. Furthermore, we touch upon the significance of leveraging a strong recommendation base while exploring new avenues for growth, especially when aiming to attract cold leads in a competitive, post-Covid market landscape.

(09:56) Content and Partnerships Capturing in-Market Customers

This chapter focuses on the strategic use of content to generate a higher volume of leads by targeting individuals who are already in the market for a product or service. I emphasise the importance of identifying 'in-market' customers and the clever utilisation of data to pinpoint these prospects. We explore how to effectively leverage content in marketing campaigns, such as creating targeted YouTube pre-roll ads that address specific customer anxieties related to moving homes. By providing actionable advice on how to produce and tailor these ads to potential customers' search behavior, we offer a blueprint for enhancing online visibility and engagement. Additionally, I touch on the concept of increasing customer lifetime value through the introduction of additional services or partnerships, aimed at providing a more comprehensive solution to customer needs during high-interest moments.

(13:07) Expanding and Increasing Value for Customers

This chapter I discuss the strategic considerations for businesses looking to expand beyond their current geographic trading area, particularly within the UK. I talk about the importance of scaling successful local strategies to other areas and the potential of introducing additional products or services to increase customer value once they are part of your sales funnel. I invite Tommy, and any other listeners with feedback or questions, to reach out directly to continue the conversation or to delve into specific business challenges they might be facing.

Nothing beats hard work. [TRWTG Podcast] Jan 09, 2024

8 Podcast recommendations post here.

7 Book recommendations post here.

Three takeaways from this podcast with Paul

1️⃣ Hard Work

2️⃣ Helicopter View

3️⃣ Fairness
I had an absolute blast with this one, especially in the post pod conversation where there's a good chance our dad's met (and given the wheeler dealer nature of them both, one likely owed the other one a few quid 😊).
Here's three key takeaways from this episode with Paul Richardson:
Importance of Perseverance and Hard Work
Paul underlines the necessity of hard graft as a cornerstone of success. Recounting his early business days, he shares how working seven days a week when rivals didn't, gave him an edge. This additional effort gave him a head start over time. He also discusses resilience or the capability to overcome hurdles. Paul believes in fostering resilience by setting strong examples and striking a balance between shielding and letting individuals experience near-failures.
Strategic Vision and a 'Helicopter View'
Paul underscores the need for a strategic outlook, or a 'helicopter view', to foresee potential challenges and opportunities. He suggests that leaders should demonstrate commercial maturity to offer guidance without getting caught up in the details. His leadership approach involves trusting others' expertise while providing strategic insights. He also stresses the role of physical spaces in mirroring company culture and promoting employee wellbeing.
Relationships and Fairness in Business
Paul highlights the significance of fairness and long-term relationships in business. He believes transactions should aim for mutual benefit, paving the way for future collaboration. He emphasises building relationships and the importance of fairness during deals, which can lead to future support. Richardson suggests investing in people often supersedes the product, and when considering collaborations or investments, traits like passion, perseverance, resilience, and risk-taking are crucial.

Reflections on a Year of Building, Branding, and Balancing [TN001] Dec 30, 2023

Join The Network by going to thenetwork.adamcallow.com (working on buying a better domain 😊).

(00:00) Reflections on 2023

(07:30) Managing Sales Teams and Culture Diversity

(12:00) Business and Work-Life Balance Lessons

(24:33) Struggling With Focus and Prioritisation

(34:07) Building Influence in Your Industry

(41:22) Building Personal and Corporate Brands

(48:50) Personal Branding and Small Business Exploration

(56:47) Podcast Recommendations and Book Impact

(01:06:27) Effective Communication and Managing Relationships

Guest Recommendations - Let me know if linking these will help.

Podcast Recommendations

Gary Lee Audio Experience

Diary of a CEO

High Performance Podcast

Lateral by Tom Scott

Economics of everyday things

Acquired

All In

Book Recommendations

Built to Sell

Smyth

Traction

The Richer way

Unreasonable hospitality

Indistractable

The trillions dollar coach

The 60 minute father

(00:00) Reflections on 2023

Tom and Alex reflect on 2023's biggest learnings, including swift decision-making, team dynamics, and growth in entrepreneurship.

(07:30) Managing Sales Teams and Culture Diversity

Managing sales teams, balancing expansion and service, navigating different cultures, and maintaining cohesive leadership in multiple businesses.

(12:00) Business and Work-Life Balance Lessons

Lessons learned in 2023: building independent business functions, hiring key roles, balancing family and entrepreneurship, and trusting and supporting team growth.

(24:33) Struggling With Focus and Prioritisation

Balance between EBIT and profit, scaling with multiple ventures, partnership and delegation, systemising business, and shifting towards focused decisions.

(34:07) Building Influence in Your Industry

Empowering employees to make decisions without jeopardising the business through coaching and rewiring ingrained behaviors.

(41:22) Building Personal and Corporate Brands

Balancing personal and corporate branding, building influence, and authenticity in personal branding for young entrepreneurship.

(48:50) Personal Branding and Small Business Exploration

Clear writing enhances personal branding, content creation, and opportunities for young entrepreneurs and businesses.

(56:47) Podcast Recommendations and Book Impact

Long-form business podcasts, books on growth and personal development, and the value of focus and presence in work and family life.

(01:06:27) Effective Communication and Managing Relationships

Act thoughtfully, don't react impulsively. Use a 'bell jar' to create space. Building a life and business with family. Grateful for community and effective communication. Book recommendation from Stephen May. Connect with the network.

The Network in 2024 Dec 30, 2023

Join The Network by visiting thenetwork.adamcallow.com (I tried to get a better domain but after 30m gave up 😊).

Military experience. Your competitive advantage [TRWTG Podcast] Nov 27, 2023

*** This episode was recorded for 'The right way to grow' podcast ***

In this episode we're joined by Ben, Founder of ⁠Redeployable⁠, a company on a mission to make military experience your competitive advantage.

Ben shares his story of moving from military service to entrepreneurship and technology. As a military veteran himself, he highlights the unique skills and experiences veterans bring to the table, especially in the tech industry.

As the discussion unfolds, we debunk some common misconceptions about hiring veterans and highlight the valuable contribution they can make. Key TakeawaysVeterans bring valuable skills to the tech industry. Ben, a military veteran and Founder of 'Redeployable', highlights the unique skills and experiences veterans bring to the tech industry. He underscores that military training fosters resilience, discipline, and adaptability, all of which are valuable in the fast-paced tech industry. Misconceptions about hiring veterans need to be debunked. The episode emphasises the need to debunk common misconceptions about hiring veterans. It's important to recognise the diversity of skills and backgrounds within the veteran community and the unique qualities they bring to the workforce, such as a strong work ethic, resilience, and loyalty. The episode also highlights the importance of creating a supportive company culture to integrate veterans successfully into teams.

Taking risks can lead to exciting career opportunities. The episode highlights the importance of risk-taking through the story of a military sergeant who transitioned into a sales career. This serves as a powerful reminder that stepping out of your comfort zone can open up new opportunities and pathways for career growth and personal development.

This episode is a valuable resource for anyone exploring a career change, especially veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce, and companies looking to diversify their teams by hiring veterans.

The Right Way to Grow is brought to you in partnership with our friends over at Bloomreach and Verse.

⁠Click here to explore the Bloomreach use case library and see how Bloomreach can support you, ensuring the right product is put in front of the right customer, at the right time.⁠

⁠See if composable is a fit for your ecommerce by claiming your free Composable Commerce Audit from our partner Verse here.⁠

TN000: Hiring Challenges | Personal Branding | Rising Interest Rates | Instagram's Threads Jul 14, 2023

** We take a transcript of the show and get AI to write our show notes - let us know what you think of them **

Welcome to another insightful episode of our podcast, where we dove into a plethora of topics, each as intriguing as the last.

Topic 1: Navigating Hiring Challenges in Practical Industries

Tommy kicked off the discussion by shedding light on the hurdles he faces in recruiting for his physically demanding removals company. We explored the possibilities and pitfalls of employing agency staff, discussing the often-encountered issues around employee commitment and care. Our conversation navigated through rising living costs and its potential impact on employee retention, before touching on the interesting concept of 'pulling value forward'. We proposed the idea of initially compensating employees beyond their worth, aiming to provide a glimpse of the future rewards and thus, enhancing employee retention.

Topic 2: The Art of Personal Branding

The concept of personal branding took centre stage next, with Sam elucidating its essence - crafting a brand that resonates with your personal interests and values. Tommy shared his experience of how he has leveraged a newsletter to cultivate a community that aligns with his core beliefs, not just his business operations. We all agreed on the importance of consistency, delivering value, and the necessity of clear, articulate goals in personal branding.

Topic 3: The Implications of Rising Interest Rates

The episode took a financially oriented turn as Harry initiated a discourse on the potential impacts of increasing interest rates on businesses and consumers. We looked at the adjustments businesses might need to implement, with Adam suggesting that efficiency and lean operation could be key. Tommy provided real-life context by discussing the impact of rising rates on the housing market and the implications for his removals business.

Topic 4: Instagram's New Kid on the Block - Threads

Finally, we discussed Instagram's newest feature, Threads, deemed by Sam as Instagram's answer to Twitter. While the potential benefits and pitfalls of this new platform were analysed, Tommy expressed concerns about yet another digital distraction. We concluded that although exploration of new platforms can be beneficial, it's crucial to remain focused on the platforms that serve your unique needs and objectives best.

Paying someone more than myself - Listener Question | Ep. 440 Mar 31, 2023