Reinventors: Consulting Conversations Over Coffee

Mel Loy & Fady Ramzy
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Re-inventors: Consulting conversations over coffee is a 10-episode podcast series hosted by two experienced consultants from two ends of the globe, but for everyone, everywhere! Cairo-based Fady Ramzy and Brisbane-based Mel Loy come together each week to deliver short, sharp episodes for those who are new to or considering making the leap into freelancing and consulting. Expect casual, fun, but informative conversations over coffee between Fady and Mel and their guests as we explore all the elements of freelancing - from getting your first client, to writing proposals, managing your business, and all the adventures along the way. More of a visual person? Watch the episodes on https://www.youtube.com/@ReinventorsConversations

Episodes

  1. 5D AGO

    Episode 10: To scale or not to scale your business, with Kirsty Visman

    Is a bigger team always better, or is it just an "ego metric"? In this episode of Reinventors: Consulting Conversations Over Coffee, Fady Ramzy and Mel Loy sit down with Kirsty Visman, Managing Director of the Brisbane-based agency Superdream. Kirsty shares her fascinating journey from being the first hire of a UK-based firm to becoming its sole owner in Australia. After scaling her team to nearly 20 people, Kirsty made the bold—and unconventional—decision to downsize and "fractionalize" her workforce. In this episode, we discuss: The Reality of Ownership: Debunking the myth that business owners "make money while they sleep" and have endless flexibility.The "Lumpy" Work Problem: Why Kirsty moved from an all-in-house model to a senior core team supported by specialist subcontractors.Passion vs. Admin: How to tell if growth is pulling you away from the creative work you actually love.Community over Competition: Why referring work to "competitors" is often the best move for your clients and your brand.Whether you are a solopreneur looking to make your first hire or an agency owner feeling the "HR burn," Kirsty’s "horses for courses" approach offers a refreshing roadmap for building a profitable, sustainable business on your own terms. Connect with Kirsty LinkedInSuperdream websiteConnect with us on LinkedIn! Fady Ramzy Mel Loy Want more? Each week we send out a nifty two-page summary of an episode of Reinventors, including key takeaways and an action list. Find out more and get yours here.

    33 min

  2. MAR 10

    Episode 9: Common consulting challenges and how to deal with them, with Sharon Connolly.

    Think consulting is going to be all smooth sailing, working with great clients as you type on your laptop and sip cocktails by the pool? Think again! The reality is there are many, many challenges with consulting, and many challenges with clients that you will face. In this conversation, Sharon Connolly shares her extensive journey in change management and consulting, discussing the realities and myths of the consulting world.  She emphasises the importance of understanding client relationships, navigating challenges, and the need for clear communication and boundaries.  Sharon also provides valuable advice for new consultants, highlighting the significance of finding a unique value proposition and being prepared for the realities of freelance work. Follow Sharon Sharon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonconnolly/ Change Superhero website: https://www.changesuperhero.com.au/  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sharon Connolly 03:03 Sharon's Journey in Change Management 05:56 The Myths of Consulting 09:05 Navigating Client Relationships 11:53 Dealing with Difficult Clients 15:01 Advice for New Consultants 17:48 Finding Your Unique Value Proposition 20:56 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Connect with us on LinkedIn! Fady Ramzy Mel Loy Want more? Each week we send out a nifty two-page summary of an episode of Reinventors, including key takeaways and an action list. Find out more and get yours here.

    43 min
  3. Episode 8: Unlocking the Secrets of Successful Pricing and Proposals

    MAR 3

    Episode 8: Unlocking the Secrets of Successful Pricing and Proposals

    How much should you charge your clients? And are you charging for the value you add, not the time you spent? In this episode, Mel Loy and Fady Ramzy discuss the intricacies of pricing and proposals in consulting.  They share their personal experiences and insights on how to effectively price services, the importance of understanding the value provided to clients, and the psychological aspects of pricing.  The conversation covers various strategies for structuring proposals, creating multiple pricing options, and working with different types of clients, including non-profits and international clients.  They also touch on the significance of packaging services as products to generate passive income. Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Pricing Landscape 02:55 Understanding Value and Client Needs 06:00 The Psychology of Pricing Strategies 09:00 Structuring Proposals for Success 12:00 Packaging Services Effectively 15:05 The Importance of Client Communication 18:01 Final Thoughts on Pricing and Proposals 28:54 The Importance of Honest Pricing Conversations 30:39 Building a Pricing Strategy with Buffer 32:59 Legal Considerations in Pricing and Contracts 35:04 Navigating International Pricing and Currency Differences 38:15 Pricing Strategies for Non-Profits 40:44 Creating Value through Add-Ons and Discounts 42:05 Leveraging Digital Products for Passive Income 44:49 Psychology of Pricing and Consumer Behavior Connect with us on LinkedIn! Fady Ramzy Mel Loy Want more? Each week we send out a nifty two-page summary of an episode of Reinventors, including key takeaways and an action list. Find out more and get yours here.

    50 min
  4. Episode 7: Why you need to discover your Business Owner Mindset

    FEB 25

    Episode 7: Why you need to discover your Business Owner Mindset

    If you're going to succeed as a consultant, you need to think of yourself as a small business owner. In this episode, Fady Ramzy and Mel Loy discuss the transition from a consultant mindset to a business owner mindset. They explore the challenges of managing a business, the importance of visibility and influence, and the psychological hurdles such as imposter syndrome.  The conversation emphasizes the need for delegation, self-awareness, and the power of asking for help.  They also touch on cultural influences on self-perception and the significance of saying no to opportunities that do not align with business goals.  The episode concludes with key takeaways for aspiring consultants and business owners. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Consulting Mindset 01:39 Understanding the Business Owner's Mindset 08:50 The Importance of Visibility and Influence 11:37 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 19:02 The Power of Saying No 29:01 Asking for Help and Building Networks 30:48 Key Takeaways and Closing Thoughts Connect with us on LinkedIn! Fady Ramzy Mel Loy Want more? Each week we send out a nifty two-page summary of an episode of Reinventors, including key takeaways and an action list. Find out more and get yours here.

    35 min
  5. Episode 6: How to Build Your Systems and Why They're Important

    FEB 17

    Episode 6: How to Build Your Systems and Why They're Important

    Want to make your life easier as a consultant? Then get your systems right! In this conversation, Fady Ramzy and Mel Loy discuss the importance of building effective systems in business. They explore various aspects of system creation, including automation, delegation, and time management.  The discussion emphasizes the need for consultants to streamline their processes to focus on billable hours and self-development.  They share insights on content creation, client management, and invoicing systems, highlighting the role of technology and human resources in enhancing efficiency.  The conversation concludes with key takeaways on the significance of proper planning and the mindset required for successful consulting. Chapters 00:00 Scheduling and Planning Ahead 02:55 Introduction to Systems and Their Importance 06:02 Defining Systems: Processes Over Tools 09:10 Building Effective Systems: EAD Methodology 11:57 Balancing Time: Billable Hours vs. Business Operations 14:56 Time Management: The Role of Calendars and Time Blocking 17:31 The Power of Systems in Time Management 18:05 Crafting a Content Creation System 20:00 Leveraging AI in Content Production 22:43 Repurposing Content for Maximum Reach 24:30 Streamlining Client Proposals and Onboarding 27:28 Automating Invoicing and Payment Processes 29:43 The Importance of Delegation and Automation 33:50 Learning from Mistakes and Inflection Points 36:36 Preparing for the Business Owner Mindset Connect with us on LinkedIn! Fady Ramzy Mel Loy Want more? Each week we send out a nifty two-page summary of an episode of Reinventors, including key takeaways and an action list. Find out more and get yours here.

    36 min
  6. Episode 5: How Consultants can use AI, with Greg Taylor

    FEB 10

    Episode 5: How Consultants can use AI, with Greg Taylor

    How could you use AI to make life as a consultant or freelancer easier? In this episode, hosts Melanie Loy and Fady Ramzy welcome Greg Taylor, a change management expert from Salesforce. Greg shares his unique career journey from a Hercules pilot to a leader in AI-driven workforce transformation.  The discussion delves into the evolving role of AI in consulting, emphasizing the importance of building confidence and ethical awareness in AI usage. Greg highlights the potential of agentic AI to automate tasks and enhance productivity, while cautioning against over-reliance on AI outputs without human validation.  The conversation concludes with practical tips for consultants starting their AI journey, underscoring the value of curiosity, learning from others, and maintaining a learner's mindset. Connect with Greg on LinkedIn here. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:00:00 Greg Taylor's Career Journey00:00:00 AI in Consulting: Confidence and Ethics00:00:00 Agentic AI and Productivity00:00:00 Practical Tips for AI AdoptionConnect with us on LinkedIn! Fady Ramzy Mel Loy Want more? Each week we send out a nifty two-page summary of an episode of Reinventors, including key takeaways and an action list. Find out more and get yours here.

    30 min
  7. Episode 4: How to book your first client

    FEB 3

    Episode 4: How to book your first client

    So you're ready to start consulting ... do you know who your first client will be? In this episode, Fady Ramzy and Mel Loy discuss the journey of starting a freelancing career, focusing on how to secure the first client. They share personal experiences, strategies for building a strong online presence, and the importance of networking and relationships.  The conversation emphasizes the value of educating potential clients through content rather than overt selling, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the significance of social proof in establishing credibility.  The hosts also explore the concept of identifying a niche and the three types of client conversions: immediate, delayed, and referral. They conclude with actionable takeaways for aspiring freelancers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Freelancing and Personal Branding 02:51 Getting Your First Client: Strategies and Experiences 05:52 Building Trust and Visibility on LinkedIn 08:57 The Importance of Educating Over Selling 12:04 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Sharing Knowledge 14:51 Narrowing Your Niche for Success 17:59 Outbound Strategies for Client Acquisition 20:16 Understanding Conversion Types 22:44 Building Your Digital Presence 24:53 Leveraging Your Contact List 26:25 The Importance of Referrals 29:43 Creating a Consistent Client Process 32:47 The Power of Storytelling and Social Proof 35:51 Key Takeaways for Success Connect with us on LinkedIn! Fady Ramzy Mel Loy Want more? Each week we send out a nifty two-page summary of an episode of Reinventors, including key takeaways and an action list. Find out more and get yours here.

    38 min
  8. Episode 3: How to build your audience, with Monique Zytnik

    JAN 27

    Episode 3: How to build your audience, with Monique Zytnik

    How will people know they can work with you if you don't have an audience? In this episode of Reinventors, Mel Loy and Fady Ramzy chat with Monique Zytnik, a communication strategist based in Berlin.  Monique shares her journey from working in Australia to freelancing in Europe, discussing the challenges and rewards of freelancing, the importance of building a personal brand, and the nuances of public speaking.  The conversation delves into audience engagement, the significance of knowing one's worth, and the strategies for maintaining consistency in content creation. Monique emphasizes the need for genuine connections and the value of planning in advance to achieve success in freelancing and consulting. Connect with Monique on LinkedIn here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 01:56 Monique's Journey to Berlin and Career Path 06:01 The Freelancing Experience: Challenges and Insights 09:47 Building a Personal Brand and Audience 13:45 Navigating Social Media and Content Creation 19:43 Public Speaking: Getting Started and Earning Opportunities 21:47 The Journey of Public Speaking 24:20 The Importance of Preparation and Expertise 25:36 Building a Consistent Content Strategy 28:44 Understanding Your Worth 34:13 The Impact of Pricing on the Industry 40:11 Lessons Learned in Freelancing Connect with us on LinkedIn! Fady Ramzy Mel Loy Want more? Each week we send out a nifty two-page summary of an episode of Reinventors, including key takeaways and an action list. Find out more and get yours here.

    49 min

  9. JAN 20

    Episode 2: How to build your personal brand, with Petra Zink

    What is your personal brand, and why do you need to prioritise it as a consultant? In this episode of Reinventors, Mel Loy and Fady Ramzy engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Petra Zink, an expert in personal branding and consulting. Petra shares her journey from corporate marketing to helping executives and entrepreneurs systemize their knowledge into monetizable intellectual property. She emphasizes the importance of personal branding, not as a means of self-promotion, but as a way to communicate value and attract opportunities. Petra discusses the misconceptions surrounding personal branding, particularly the idea that it equates to bragging or being an influencer, and instead frames it as a strategic approach to showcasing one's expertise and the outcomes they can deliver for clients. The discussion delves into practical steps for building a personal brand, including defining what one wants to be known for, creating a signature framework, and developing memorable language that resonates with potential clients. Petra also highlights the significance of consistency in branding and the need for consultants to adapt to the evolving landscape of work, especially in light of AI and changing client expectations. The episode wraps up with Petra sharing her insights on the importance of authenticity, the role of content creation in establishing authority, and the necessity of building trust over time in the consulting space. Connect with Petra Follow Petra on LinkedIn here. Check out Petra's business, Impaccct, here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Personal Branding 01:52 Defining Personal Brand and Its Importance 04:31 Overcoming Discomfort with Personal Branding 06:41 Steps to Build a Personal Brand 08:29 Developing Signature Frameworks 10:41 Creating Brand Assets and Consistency 15:22 Balancing AI and Authenticity in Branding 18:22 The Concept of Authenticity in Branding 19:52 The Shift from Company Branding to Personal Branding 25:37 Converting Content into Clients 28:35 Final Thoughts and Rapid Fire Questions Connect with us on LinkedIn! Fady Ramzy Mel Loy Want more? Each week we send out a nifty two-page summary of an episode of Reinventors, including key takeaways and an action list. Find out more and get yours here.

    40 min
  10. Episode 1: How to Get Started - the Pros and Cons of Consulting

    JAN 13

    Episode 1: How to Get Started - the Pros and Cons of Consulting

    Ever considered freelancing or consulting? Curious about what it involves?  In this episode, Melanie Loy and Fadi Ramzy discuss the journey of freelancing and consulting, exploring both the pros and cons. They share personal experiences, insights on self-discovery, and the challenges of imposter syndrome. The conversation emphasizes the importance of networking, the realities of running a business, and the need for flexibility and hard work in the freelancing world. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Freelancing and Consulting 04:30 Pros of Freelancing 17:47 Cons of Freelancing 33:36 Key Takeaways and Conclusion Connect with us on LinkedIn! Fady Ramzy Mel Loy Want more? Each week we send out a nifty two-page summary of an episode of Reinventors, including key takeaways and an action list. Find out more and get yours here.

    35 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Re-inventors: Consulting conversations over coffee is a 10-episode podcast series hosted by two experienced consultants from two ends of the globe, but for everyone, everywhere! Cairo-based Fady Ramzy and Brisbane-based Mel Loy come together each week to deliver short, sharp episodes for those who are new to or considering making the leap into freelancing and consulting. Expect casual, fun, but informative conversations over coffee between Fady and Mel and their guests as we explore all the elements of freelancing - from getting your first client, to writing proposals, managing your business, and all the adventures along the way. More of a visual person? Watch the episodes on https://www.youtube.com/@ReinventorsConversations

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