Living the Small Business Life

Digital Deconstructed

A new podcast looking at the reality, the highs and the lows, of running a small business.  Do you run a small business? Where do you go to find advice, or just somewhere you can hear others relate to the rewarding yet often overwhelming journey that is owning and running a small business?  We’re Ben, Ben and Laura and we’re all small business owners at different stages in our own small business journey. Since we started hanging out we discovered that we’ve got so much in common when it comes to running our businesses, and yet we’re having conversations together that we weren’t hearing anywhere else.  So we thought, why not have those conversations ourselves and share them?  We want to talk frankly and openly about our experiences of running a small business: the good, the bad, the strange, the stuff no one tells you when you’re starting out and the things we all go through and want to talk about more.  It’s not all ‘hustle’ and hanging out with the entrepreneur crowd, it’s often working out how to get business through the door and make sure you’re not alienating your entire family in the process!  So if you’re running a small business then join us. Listen and let us know what you think!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 11/12/2025

    Getting to Know You - Quick Fire Questions! Living the Small Business Life S3 Ep6

    Join us for this fun episode as we close out Season 3. Ben, Ben and I have only 5 seconds to answer the questions which Ben generated with AI and our cameraman Wes calls out! 0:06 - Welcome to *Living a Small Business Life* 0:28 - Question 1: What's your favourite midnight snack? 0:44 - Question 2: Who would you choose if you could be friends with a fictional character? 1:14 - Question 3: What's the best costume you've ever worn to a party? 1:55 - Question 4: What's the best surprise you've ever received? 3:00 - Question 5: What's the most embarrassing moment you've ever experienced? 3:57 - Question 6: If you could have any talent, what would you choose? 5:07 - Question 7: If you were stuck on a deserted island and had to choose a family member to be stuck with, who would you choose? 5:48 - Question 8: Who would you be if you had to be a character from a book? 6:42 - Question 9: What's the best joke you've ever heard? 7:56 - Question 10: If you could live in any movie, which one would it be? 8:33 - Question 11: Who is your favorite celebrity? 9:11 - Question 12: If you had to choose one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be? 9:59 - Question 13: What's your funniest relationship deal-breaker? 10:53 - Question 14: If you could be any animal, which animal would you be? 11:48 - Wrap up and thanks for watching Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    12 min
  2. 11/05/2025

    AI: Threat or Opportunity for Small Business? | Living the Small Business Life S3 Ep5

    In this episode we explore the rapidly evolving world of AI and its immediate and future implications for small businesses. We chat about our own levels of AI adoption, ranging from complete skepticism to leveraging it for daily operational efficiency. We talked about key tools like Microsoft Copilot, concerns over data security, the impact of AI on creative content and jobs, and the necessity of maintaining human connection in an increasingly automated world. 00:07 - Introduction: AI in Small Business 00:21 - Are We Using AI in Our Businesses? 00:41 - Using Microsoft Copilot and Other AI Tools 01:30 - AI Skepticism and Industry Challenges 03:09 - The Creative and Tone Problem with AI 04:31 - Managing AI with the Team and Copilot Benefits 05:15 - AI for Meeting Efficiency and Proposal Drafting 07:28 - AI Email Management with Fixer 09:12 - Security and Data Concerns with Copilot and AI 11:36 - The Fundamental Bias and Environmental Cost of Large Language Models 12:41 - Using Gemini and Closed Data Sets 13:36 - AI and Cyber Security Threats 15:06 - Massive Increase in AI-Generated Email Threats 16:44 - Deep Fake Voices and Financial Fraud Examples 17:37 - The Rise of Deep Fake Video and Image Creative 19:43 - Younger Generations' Perspective on AI Content 20:57 - The Evolution of CGI and Creative AI 23:33 - The Impact of AI on Jobs and Industries 27:00 - Job Differentiation vs. Elimination 28:47 - The Future of Work: AI Employees and Flexible Hours 29:54 - Over-Employment Enabled by AI 30:30 - Is AI a Bad Thing? Reflections on Current Use 31:14 - Microsoft Power Platform and No-Code Solutions 33:10 - Refining AI Output and Focusing on Human Connection 35:17 - AI Tools Used by the Hosts 39:03 - The Competitive Disadvantage of Not Using AI 41:15 - AI Reducing Admin Burden 42:58 - Conclusion and Future Outlook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    43 min
  3. 10/29/2025

    Flexible Foundations: Building a Social Enterprise - Living the Small Business Life S3 Ep4

    Welcome back to Living the Small Business Life! In this episode, we're joined by Laura Dolphin, the founding director of Dolphin Outsourcing. Laura shares her inspiring journey of building a social enterprise that champions flexible work and empowers individuals facing challenging circumstances. She talks about the origins of her company, the unique services they offer, and how they navigate the evolving landscape of business, including the impact of the 2020 pandemic. Laura also offers valuable advice for aspiring business owners and introduces her new product, Will Plus, designed to help entrepreneurs plan for unexpected life events. 0:00:00 Introduction to Laura Dolphin and Dolphin Outsourcing 0:01:13 Services Provided by Dolphin Outsourcing 0:02:20 Dolphin Outsourcing's Ideal Client 0:04:22 The Driving Force Behind Starting Dolphin Outsourcing 0:06:45 Laura's Career Before Starting Her Company 0:08:31 Impact of COVID-19 on Dolphin Outsourcing 0:14:12 Flexible Working Opportunities at Dolphin Outsourcing 0:27:22 Laura's Approach to Work-Life Balance 0:32:48 Advice for Aspiring Small Business Owners 0:35:56 Biggest Challenges Faced by Dolphin Outsourcing 0:44:39 Marketing Strategies and Growth Plans 0:40:51 Will Plus: A Product for Business Owners Facing Challenging Times 0:45:29 Conclusion --- Find us on socials here: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-the-small-business-life Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/livingthesmallbusinesslife TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@living.the.small Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Living-the-Small-Business-Life/61556920702846/ Twitter / X - https://x.com/living_smblife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    46 min
  4. 10/22/2025

    Hearn's Coaches - From Family Business to Industry Leader: Living the Small Business Life S3 Ep3

    In this episode of "Living the Small Business Life," join us as we chat with Jamie Thacker, Managing Director of Hearn's Coaches. Jamie shares his unique journey of entering the family business straight out of university, the challenges of navigating the coach hire industry through the pandemic, and his insights on managing a growing fleet. He discusses the evolution of Hearn's Coaches from a school contract focus to a diverse business and the importance of adapting to change and investing in a supportive work environment. 0:00 Intro 0:20 About Hearn's Coaches 1:01 Jamie's Journey with the Business 2:34 Control of the Business 3:20 Business Then vs. Now 5:02 The Impact of COVID 6:42 Acquiring a Competitor 10:14 Starting in the Family Business 13:19 Challenges in the Transport Industry 16:14 Staffing Challenges in Small Business 20:29 Creating a Positive Work Environment 22:06 Starting a Small Business After University 26:31 Work-Life Balance 30:11 The Future of Electric Coaches 33:57 Chinese Coach Manufacturing 37:06 Advice for Small Business Owners 38:33 Outro --- Find us on socials here: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-the-small-business-life Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/livingthesmallbusinesslife TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@living.the.small Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Living-the-Small-Business-Life/61556920702846/ Twitter / X - https://x.com/living_smblife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    39 min
  5. 10/15/2025

    Scaling a Recruitment Business During COVID with Chris from ACS Staffing Solutions - LSBL S3 Ep2

    Next up on Living the Small Business Life, we sit down with Chris from ACS Staffing Solutions to discuss the challenges and successes of scaling a recruitment business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hear about Chris's journey, from how he and his wife Helen started the business, to navigating the ups and downs of the recruitment industry. Learn about the impact of COVID-19 on their operations, the importance of strong company culture, and the lessons learned in managing cash flow and scaling effectively. Whether you're a business owner or interested in the recruitment sector, Chris's insights offer valuable takeaways. 00:00 Introduction to the Episode 00:19 Meet Chris: The Journey Begins 02:19 Scaling the Business: Challenges and Strategies 04:42 Navigating COVID-19: A Turning Point 06:20 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business Operations 13:17 Post-COVID Adjustments and Market Shifts 21:40 Company Vision and Culture 27:37 Strategic Partnerships and AI Integration 28:11 Scaling Challenges and HR Foundations 31:46 Leadership and Team Dynamics 36:44 Economic Impact on Recruitment 39:06 Navigating Financial Struggles 49:41 Customer Relationships and Retention 52:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- Find us on socials here: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-the-small-business-life Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/livingthesmallbusinesslife TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@living.the.small Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Living-the-Small-Business-Life/61556920702846/ Twitter / X - https://x.com/living_smblife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min
  6. 10/15/2025

    Living the Small Business Life: Navigating 2024 and Plans for 2025 - S3 Ep1

    Welcome to Season 3 of Living the Small Business Life! In our first episode we recap the end of 2024, discussing highs, lows, and market hesitancy. Then we dive into our strategies for 2025, highlighting plans for growth and customer retention. With personal anecdotes and insights, this episode provides valuable perspectives for small business owners facing uncertain times. Don't miss out on hearing from upcoming guests and learning effective business strategies - hit subscribe to get the next episodes straight away! 00:00 Welcome to Season Three 00:30 Reflecting on 2024 01:12 Business Hesitancy and Market Uncertainty 03:43 Changes and New Beginnings 05:01 Starting Fresh in 2025 08:54 Launching a New Business 12:38 Strategies for Growth and Retention 22:25 Customer Retention Challenges 24:01 Challenges in Customer Retention 24:57 The Impact of Relationships on Business 27:23 Customer Service and Retention Strategies 29:14 Dealing with Customer Loss 31:12 Balancing New and Existing Customers 33:05 Strategies for Long-Term Customer Relationships 44:18 The Cost of Losing a Customer 48:47 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes --- Find us on socials here: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-the-small-business-life Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/livingthesmallbusinesslife TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@living.the.small Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Living-the-Small-Business-Life/61556920702846/ Twitter / X - https://x.com/living_smblife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    49 min
  7. 12/04/2024

    What We've Learnt from Interviewing Small Business Owners in Season 2

    In the final episode of 'Living the Small Business Life' Season Two, Ben, Ben and I reflect on the highlights and lessons learned from our conversations with various guests. We discuss the realities of running a small business, the unplanned nature of business growth, the importance of drive and determination, and the significance of work-life balance. We also emphasise the value of backing oneself, the freedom that comes with entrepreneurship, and the evolving nature of networking. Special mentions to our wonderful guests from Season Two - More Driver Solutions, Vision 29, Happydashery, and Red Rascal Creative. 00:00 Welcome to the Season Finale 01:09 Reflecting on Our Guests 01:49 Key Takeaways from Season Two 02:11 The Reality of Business Planning 04:04 Challenges with Admin and Regulations 09:09 Balancing Work and Life 12:21 The Importance of Physical Activity 18:27 Would You Go Back to Employment? 22:40 The Freedom of Running a Small Business 24:43 Networking and Knowledge Sharing 30:19 Looking Forward to Season Three 31:28 Thank You and Goodbye More Driver Solutions - https://moredriversolutions.ltd.uk/ Happydashery - https://happydashery.co.uk/ Vision 29 - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocoxhill Red Rascal Creative - https://www.redrascalcreative.com/ --- Check out the dedicated page for the Living the Small Business Life Podcast: https://movedigital.co.uk/podcast/living-the-small-business-life/ Or, connect with us in the comments below or find us on social media ⬇️ https://www.instagram.com/livingthesmallbusinesslife https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-the-small-business-life/ https://www.tiktok.com/@living.the.small https://www.twitter.com/living_smblife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    32 min
  8. 11/20/2024

    Running Multiple Small Businesses with Wes Venn of Buddy Cards and Red Rascal Creative

    In this episode of Living the Small Business Life, the host welcomes Wes Venn, a multi-business entrepreneur and the show's cameraman! Wes shares his journey from being a radio presenter to starting a greetings card company, Buddy Fernandez, known for its 'naughty' cards. He discusses how COVID-19 led him to focus full-time on his ventures, including founding Red Rascal Creative, a company providing video ads and promotional content. Wes touches on the challenges and funny moments of running multiple businesses, his unique marketing strategies, and the value of saying 'yes' to opportunities. We also chatted about work-life balance, financial planning, and the importance of being adaptable in the small business world. 00:00 Introduction to the Episode 00:18 Meet Wes Venn: The Media Mutt 00:41 Wes's Small Business Ventures 01:37 The Impact of COVID-19 02:01 Red Rascal Creative: A New Beginning 02:23 Voiceover Work and Calgon Adverts 02:57 Adapting to New Media Platforms 03:50 The Art of Juggling Multiple Roles 06:35 Challenges of Running Small Businesses 08:35 The Tesco Experience 14:00 Defining Success in Small Business 15:10 Struggling with Work-Life Balance 17:02 Weekend Work and Holiday Plans 17:12 Chillfest and Celebrity Encounters 17:52 Balancing Work and Personal Life 18:46 Financial Planning for Freelancers 19:44 Adapting to Change and Taking on Odd Jobs 20:53 Marketing Strategies and the Buddy Fernandez Tour 23:55 Unique Marketing and Event Filming 27:42 Funny Trade Show Stories 29:53 Business Mentors and Personal Philosophy 31:54 Quirky Customer Requests and Theme Songs 34:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- Check out the dedicated page for the Living the Small Business Life Podcast: https://movedigital.co.uk/podcast/living-the-small-business-life/ Or, connect with us in the comments below or find us on social media ⬇️ https://www.instagram.com/livingthesmallbusinesslife https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-the-small-business-life/ https://www.tiktok.com/@living.the.small https://www.twitter.com/living_smblife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    35 min

About

A new podcast looking at the reality, the highs and the lows, of running a small business.  Do you run a small business? Where do you go to find advice, or just somewhere you can hear others relate to the rewarding yet often overwhelming journey that is owning and running a small business?  We’re Ben, Ben and Laura and we’re all small business owners at different stages in our own small business journey. Since we started hanging out we discovered that we’ve got so much in common when it comes to running our businesses, and yet we’re having conversations together that we weren’t hearing anywhere else.  So we thought, why not have those conversations ourselves and share them?  We want to talk frankly and openly about our experiences of running a small business: the good, the bad, the strange, the stuff no one tells you when you’re starting out and the things we all go through and want to talk about more.  It’s not all ‘hustle’ and hanging out with the entrepreneur crowd, it’s often working out how to get business through the door and make sure you’re not alienating your entire family in the process!  So if you’re running a small business then join us. Listen and let us know what you think!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.