Special Guest Charlotte Bjuren In this episode of The Business Growth Podcast , I, Chris Hallett, sit down with Charlotte Buren, a Swedish AI marketing expert, who is transforming the way small businesses approach their online presence and marketing through AI and digital tools. With her foundation in computer science and experience in supporting small businesses, Charlotte brings an in-depth perspective on leveraging AI to drive efficiency and growth in today’s market. Throughout our conversation, Charlotte shares how AI has reshaped her work, particularly in content creation and market research. She explains how tools like Perplexity and ChatGPT allow small business owners to quickly produce relevant, targeted content, manage their social media, and refine their marketing strategies—all without the need for large, costly teams. According to Charlotte, these tools enable business owners to better understand their audience, conduct competitor analysis, and reach ideal customers with greater ease. Charlotte and I also discuss the balance between using AI for quick, scalable content and maintaining a personal touch, especially in areas like video creation and course development. While AI can streamline many aspects of marketing, we both agree that genuine human engagement remains essential for fostering trust and connection. Looking to the future, Charlotte shares insights on the next wave of AI technologies, such as AI agents capable of making independent decisions, and explores the exciting opportunities they present for small businesses. For those interested in starting with AI, she suggests experimenting with ChatGPT and Claude, using a trial-and-error approach to discover what works best. We wrap up with a look at AI’s impact across various industries, including healthcare, where it’s supporting diagnostics and alleviating the pressures on systems like the NHS. Whether you’re curious about AI’s potential or seeking actionable tips for your own business, this episode is packed with valuable insights that make AI accessible and practical for small businesses. Key Takeaways: Use AI tools like Perplexity and ChatGPT to generate and target content quickly. Balance AI-driven efficiency with authentic human engagement. Experiment with AI tools to discover effective strategies for your business. Chris Hallett’s free eBook on goal setting at wavecommsgroup.co.uk .…

Special Guest: Sam Spridgen In this episode of The Business Growth Podcast , host Chris Hallett interviews Sam Spridgen, Managing Director of Spectra Media. Spectra Media aims to be the leading marketing agency in the North West, known for their dedication to client success and their unique revenue guarantee on services. Sam shares insights into their business model, marketing strategies, and the importance of transparency and alignment in achieving business growth. Key Takeaways: Spectra Media's Unique Value Proposition: Spectra Media offers a comprehensive marketing package that includes web design, SEO, graphic design, marketing strategy, and more. They guarantee an ROI of at least £12,000 over a 12-month contract, ensuring clients' investments are worthwhile. The Importance of Accountability: To uphold their guarantee, Spectra ensures collaboration and clear responsibility between the agency and the client. They track every lead, evaluate performance metrics, and identify areas for improvement, such as sales training if leads aren't converting. Evolving Marketing Trends: There's a resurgence in physical marketing materials, such as mail shots and trade shows, alongside digital efforts. Social media algorithms demand consistent, high-quality content tailored to the audience. AI advancements make strategic, well-written content more critical than ever. The Power of Messaging and Alignment: Spectra conducts an in-depth strategy day with new clients to define brand messaging, company values, and the problems they solve. This clarity ensures alignment across teams and more effective communication with target audiences. Standing Out in a Crowded Market: Spectra’s "no bull" value emphasizes simplicity, honesty, and direct communication. Their revenue guarantee differentiates them from competitors. Transparency with employees, clients, and stakeholders builds trust and drives results. Building Relationships to Attract Clients: Spectra focuses on networking, joining business groups, attending events, and cultivating meaningful connections. Consistency and persistence in outreach are essential for success. Leadership and Company Culture: Spectra prioritizes clear communication of goals, structured plans, and development opportunities for employees. Transparency and shared values create a motivated and aligned team. This episode provides valuable insights into innovative marketing approaches, building client trust, and creating a strong company culture that drives growth. Chris Hallett’s free eBook on goal setting at wavecommsgroup.co.uk .…

Special Guest Jeff Herring Chris Hallett’s free eBook on goal setting at wavecommsgroup.co.uk In this episode of the Business Growth Podcast, I, Chris Hallett, have the pleasure of welcoming Jeff Herring from Content Profit Systems. Jeff is a content profit coach who empowers creators to transform their passion into profitable digital products. Our conversation traces Jeff's fascinating journey from traditional counseling to online entrepreneurship, famously dubbed his shift from the "couch to the mouse." Jeff passionately emphasizes the critical importance of repurposing content, a strategy he has honed over his 18 years online. While some might declare "content is dead," Jeff insists that the demand for engaging, high-quality content remains ever-present. He provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of content creation and the necessity for creators to pivot in response to industry shifts, highlighting the potential of platforms like Substack. Together, we reflect on the mental challenges of remote work, the value of continuous learning, and the profound satisfaction derived from helping others through our online ventures. We also discuss how technology has revolutionized our work lives, enabling global connections and the flexibility of working from home. One of the standout concepts from our discussion is the use of templates as a creative tool, likening it to the nostalgic fun of "Mad Libs" or "painting by numbers." Jeff shares how these templates can alleviate writer's block and allow creators to produce various outputs—from eBooks to courses—from a single piece of content. Jeff further stresses the importance of adaptability in content creation, noting how his templates have evolved to incorporate AI tools like ChatGPT. He encourages listeners to view AI as an ally in content creation, highlighting that unique human perspectives will always be essential. Packed with practical insights, this episode encourages listeners to embrace templates and AI to enhance their content marketing and business growth strategies. Jeff offers resources, including valuable templates available on his website, to help you implement these strategies effectively. Tune in for a wealth of actionable advice to elevate your content creation journey!…

Chris Hallett’s free eBook on goal setting at wavecommsgroup.co.uk . Welcome to another episode of The Business Growth Podcast! I’m your host, Chris Hallett, and today we dive into the transformative concept of empowered leadership. Throughout our discussion, I share my personal journey from the early days of my career in the 1980s to discovering the principles of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) that reshaped my approach to leadership. Key Takeaways: Understanding Empowered Leadership: Empowered leaders are free from emotional constraints and understand their purpose. They possess a compelling vision for their future, allowing them to lead authentically. The Importance of Clean Data: Just as I learned in my early career, having structured, clean data is crucial. Before we can help others, we must first ensure that our own systems and processes are in order. Overcoming Limiting Beliefs: I delve into self-limiting beliefs, such as imposter syndrome, that can hinder our success. Identifying and addressing the root causes of these beliefs is essential for personal and professional growth. Embracing Vulnerability: True empowerment comes from embracing vulnerability and recognizing that success is not just about financial achievements but also about balance and well-being. Throughout the episode, I share stories of resilience, including my experience with public speaking fears and how confronting those challenges has led to significant personal growth. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt or feel that your beliefs are holding you back, this episode is for you! I encourage you to listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, subscribe to the show, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more people on their leadership journeys. If you’re inspired by today’s episode, please share it with a friend or colleague who could benefit from these insights. For more information about empowering your leadership and building high-performing teams, connect with me through the details in the show notes. Together, let’s cultivate a community of empowered leaders ready to drive business growth!…

In this episode of The Business Growth Podcast , I sit down with Chris O’Connell from Base Mindset to dive deep into his story of resilience, reinvention, and purpose-led leadership. Chris shares his inspiring journey, from overcoming a challenging childhood to rising as a top biller in a multi-billion-pound recruitment company and building his own firm, valued at £25 million. However, he’s open about the costs of success: burnout, strained relationships, and ultimately, a court battle that left him bankrupt and struggling with his mental health. Chris speaks candidly about the realisation that he had put everything into his business while neglecting his personal well-being. Losing his company forced him to take a step back and become what he calls the “CEO of his life.” This shift led him to focus on personal growth and balance, believing that issues in one’s personal life often impact business success. Now, he advises the leaders he coaches to prioritise self-care, relationships, and health alongside their professional ambitions. Key takeaways from this episode include the value of having a strong support network, staying focused on your niche, and maintaining a proactive sales and marketing strategy. Chris emphasises that traditional techniques like cold calling are still powerful tools, even in an age of social media. Relying solely on online posts doesn’t drive growth without active, personal engagement with clients and prospects. We also discuss purpose-led leadership, which Chris defines as putting purpose before profit. He believes a true leader’s role is to bring out the best in their team and create other leaders. This purpose-first approach has allowed him to connect more authentically with his audience, making his business relationships more meaningful and impactful. Tune in to learn from Chris’s journey and gain insights on balancing personal and professional growth, building authentic connections, and leading with purpose. Chris Hallett’s free eBook on goal setting at wavecommsgroup.co.uk .…

Chris Hallett’s free eBook on goal setting at wavecommsgroup.co.uk . Welcome to The Business Growth Podcast , where we explore ethical, sustainable strategies for business and personal growth. I’m Chris Hallett, your host, and today kicks off a new series on one of the most crucial aspects of your business: sales. In this episode, I reflect on my own journey from project management to entrepreneurship and the profound insights I’ve gained from relationships in sales, especially the psychology behind successful, trust-based sales processes. I share a compelling story about my experience with David, a branding specialist and a self-proclaimed “sales prevention officer.” David’s approach to sales was unlike any I’d encountered—he never employed high-pressure sales tactics or pushed for a quick decision. Instead, he focused on truly understanding my vision and needs for my brand, crafting a solution that exceeded my expectations. Through trust, clarity, and a collaborative approach, David built a brand that not only stood the test of time but also set my business apart in a competitive field. Key Takeaways: Sales Without Selling: Sales doesn’t have to be a pushy or uncomfortable experience. As David demonstrated, focusing on the client’s genuine needs creates a natural buying environment. Trust is Paramount: Building a trusting relationship is essential; clients are more likely to buy when they feel understood and valued. Client-Centred Approach: Sales should empower clients to make confident decisions. When clients feel in control, they’re more likely to stay engaged and refer others. Avoid Buyer’s Remorse: By ensuring clients buy solutions that genuinely serve their needs, you can prevent buyer’s remorse and cultivate long-term loyalty. If you’re ready to transform your sales approach and unlock authentic connections with your clients, don’t miss this episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave a review, and share with friends who could benefit from a fresh perspective on ethical sales practices. Join me next time as we dive deeper into the psychology of sales and explore how you can apply these strategies in your business. Find me on LinkedIn or Facebook to continue the conversation!…

Welcome to The Business Growth Podcast , where we explore the intersection of business growth and personal development to empower ethical and sustainable success. I’m your host, Chris Hallett, and in today’s episode, I’m thrilled to welcome David Mitchell, Marketing Director, President of Chemic Chase Chamber of Commerce, and Founder of The Marketing People. David shares his wealth of experience in strategic branding and marketing, helping businesses create impactful growth while achieving their goals. In this episode, David and I reflect on our 15+ years of collaboration and dive deep into what it takes to develop a brand that doesn’t just exist but thrives . From his early days revolutionizing communications for BT to enabling entrepreneurs to retire early or build group companies, David reveals the strategic insights behind successful branding. Key Takeaways: A Brand is More Than a Logo: Many startups mistakenly think their brand begins and ends with a logo. David explains why a logo is just the tip of the iceberg, with brand strategy being the foundation that ensures consistent communication, tone, and positioning. The Power of Research: Before creating a visual identity, it’s essential to analyze your business, audience, competitors, and market position. Skipping this step can leave your business misaligned or stagnant. Points of Parity vs. Points of Difference: Understand what makes you fit into your sector (parity) and what sets you apart (difference). David shares how to uncover these elements and use them to establish authority and differentiation in the marketplace. Consistency is Key: A well-crafted brand ensures all messaging—from your tone of voice to how your team answers the phone—aligns with your identity, helping build trust and recognition among your audience. David’s perspective on branding as an ongoing process, rather than a one-time task, will change how you approach your business’s growth. Whether you’re a startup or an established business ready to rebrand, this episode offers actionable insights to help you stand out. Tune in now to uncover how branding can transform your business! Find more insights and a free eBook on goal setting at wavecommsgroup.co.uk .…

Welcome to another episode of The Business Growth Podcast , where we empower business owners to create ethical, sustainable growth that impacts both you and your team positively. I’m your host, Chris Hallett, and in today’s episode, I’m diving into the crucial topic of goal setting and achieving in a way that can truly transform your approach to growth. In this episode, I break down the key difference between goals and objectives . While objectives are often written as future hopes—something to achieve later—goals, like in sports, are binary. Either you've hit them, or you haven’t. I explain how focusing on goals as immediate, clear outcomes provides greater clarity and motivation. We also dive into the power of aligning your conscious and unconscious minds. Your conscious mind sets the goal, but it's your unconscious mind that drives the action, like the crew on a ship following orders. Getting the two to work together can make a massive difference in reaching your goals. Throughout the episode, I highlight common goal-setting pitfalls such as vague language, setting goals for others, or setting goals that are too small. I offer tips on how to overcome these barriers by being specific, setting big personal goals, and ensuring you have a clear goal-achieving process in place. Key takeaways: Understand the difference between goals and objectives. Align your conscious and unconscious minds to drive goal achievement. Avoid vague language; be specific and clear with your goals. Set big, personal goals that excite and motivate you. Develop a clear process for both setting and achieving your goals. Be sure to subscribe to The Business Growth Podcast on Apple or Spotify, leave a review, and share with a friend. Let’s continue growing your business together! Find more insights and a free eBook on goal setting at wavecommsgroup.co.uk .…

Chris Hallett’s free eBook on goal setting at wavecommsgroup.co.uk . Welcome to the first episode of the Business Growth Podcast, In this special kickoff episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Chris Hallett, a business growth specialist, about his unique approach to helping business owners create sustainable and ethical growth in just 90 days. Chris shares his journey, starting from a pivotal experience in 2009 that broke him down but ultimately built him up. He talks about his transformative journey from unemployment and doubt to discovering Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and becoming an accredited business growth coach. This breakthrough led him to develop a powerful method to not only help businesses grow but to help business owners grow personally as well. Chris reveals how he combined his expertise in digital marketing, coaching, and personal development to build a comprehensive 6M Growth Model. This unique framework allows him to tailor solutions to business owners based on their specific challenges, ensuring that each 90-day plan is customized to the needs of the business. Key takeaways: Mindset is key: Growth starts from within. Addressing imposter syndrome and limiting beliefs is often the biggest obstacle to success. Bespoke solutions work best: Every business is unique. Chris’s 6M Growth Model assesses six key areas of business, creating a targeted 90-day plan that focuses on the weakest areas. Sustainable and ethical growth: Growth needs to be ethical, aligned with your values, and built to last, not a quick, temporary win. Don’t follow the crowd: Comparing yourself to others, especially on social media, can lead to distraction. Focus on your own vision and strategy for success. Join us in this insightful episode as we dive into how Chris helps business owners achieve sustainable, ethical growth while overcoming personal and professional barriers! Tune in now and start your own journey to sustainable success.…