Business Growth Talks

Mark Hayward

Business Growth Talks podcast is created and hosted by Mark Hayward. In this show we talk about how to grow a business in the Growth Stage. The growth stage is often marked by rapid developments, increased revenue, and an escalating customer base. ​  In each episode we talk to entrepreneurs and business owners who have grown businesses and we cover topics like scaling processes, market expansion, financial management, human resource and talent development, and customer retention. If you are looking for actionable advice, tips, and techniques on how to grow, run and build your business, this is the podcast for you!Find more details about the podcast www.businessgrowthtalks.comIf you want to be a guest on 24 or 48 shows to build your personal or professional brand then go to:www.podcastintroduction.comBe a supporter of the channel - https://www.patreon.com/BusinessgrowthtalksFind me onLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayward-163721a0/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/markjhayward​Twitter - https://twitter.com/markhayward169TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mjh169183

  1. Reflecting on 2025: Key Lessons for Business Growth With Mark Hayward

    DEC 15

    Reflecting on 2025: Key Lessons for Business Growth With Mark Hayward

    Send us a text In this reflective episode of Business Growth Talks, host Mark Hayward revisits the impactful lessons learned throughout 2025, emphasizing themes like patience, consistency, and authentic relationships. From understanding the critical role of documented systems in business growth to leveraging personal stories as tools for differentiation, this episode is a roadmap for entrepreneurs aiming to refine their strategies and operations. As the year winds down, Mark urges listeners to pause, reflect, and consider how these insights might propel them into a successful 2026. Amid the hustle of growing a business, Mark highlights the importance of building sustainable practices over chasing overnight success. Essential keywords such as "business growth strategies," "podcast guesting," "storytelling," and "leadership in uncertainty" are interwoven as Mark shares insights on consistency, storytelling, and relationship-building. He brings attention to the art of podcast guesting, learning from failures and successes, and the importance of disciplined, intentional action over mere motivation. Through notable conversations with experts like Christine Campbell Rappin and Mike Perlo, the episode underscores the essence of developing systems and processes, highlighting the integral role they play in achieving sustainable business growth. Key Takeaways: Systems Over Spontaneity: Sustainable growth emerges not from sudden tactics but from building solid, repeatable systems.Storytelling as Leverage: Personal stories create trust, making storytelling a powerful tool for connection and differentiation.Consistency Trumps Motivation: Regular discipline and routine often lead to momentum and eventual success.The Power of Relationships: Long-term business success thrives on genuine relationships, not just transactional interactions.Energy Management: Protecting your energy through strategic rest is crucial for avoiding burnout and achieving sustainable performance.SPONSOR Podcast Guesting is your best way to get visbility, credibility and trust by sharing how you add value to your clients. If you want to set up a call, go to the website www.podcastintroduction.com Resources: Christine Campbell Rappin: Check episode details for her coaching contact information.Mike Perlo's Journey: Episode discusses his transition and storytelling approach.Tom Friedman and Joe Mindak's Networking Insights: Episodes featuring insights on relationship-building from their distinct perspectives.Robert Matson on Burnout: Highlighting strategic rest practices for sustainable business operations.Business Growth Talks c Support the show If you want to watch the full video of this episode go to: https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks Do you want to be a guest on multiple podcasts as a service go to: www.podcastintroduction.com Find more details about the podcast and my coaching business on: www.businessgrowthtalks.com Find me on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayw... Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mjh169183 YouTube Shorts - https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks/shorts

    22 min
  2. Masterclass in High Stakes Leadership: Solvej Biddle’s Strategies for Influence

    DEC 8

    Masterclass in High Stakes Leadership: Solvej Biddle’s Strategies for Influence

    Send us a text In this engaging episode of "Business Growth Talks," host Mark Hayward delves into the intricacies of scaling a business with seasoned entrepreneur and Dragons' Den alum, Solvej Biddle. Known for her acumen in stakeholder management, Solvej elaborates on the often-overlooked "people dynamic" that plays a crucial role once a business moves past product validation into scaling. She discusses how mastering stakeholder influence can convert business potential into tangible growth, transcending geographical boundaries and organizational barriers. As the conversation unfolds, Solvej shares vital insights into preparing for scale-up challenges, from securing international partnerships to strategically managing multiple stakeholders like investors, partners, and board members. The discussion is rich with actionable strategies that emphasize the importance of reading interpersonal signals and understanding stakeholder interests. With genuine anecdotes from her Dragons' Den experience and her current work with Tech Nordic Advocates, Solvej illustrates the essential skills needed to influence high-stakes business environments successfully. Key Takeaways: Scaling a business involves managing a vast network of stakeholders beyond product development, emphasizing the need for strong interpersonal skills.Effective stakeholder management involves preparation, active listening, and understanding stakeholder interests to foster meaningful engagements.Confidence, humility, and the ability to read the room are crucial when pitching to investors or negotiating in high-stakes situations.Career-long skills like stakeholder engagement are not only applicable in business environments but are invaluable in everyday interactions.Emerging entrepreneurs, particularly in tech sectors, can benefit significantly by refining their influence and persuasion skills, particularly when expanding across borders.SPONSORS Get a professional website built fast with Up in a Day, then book a call and see how easily you can elevate your online presence.  https://upinaday.co/book-mark-hayward Resources: Connect with Solvej Biddle via LinkedInLearn more about the Engage Method: engagemethod.co (Note: URL imagined, as it wasn't directly mentioned)Discover Tech Nordic Advocates Website (Note: URL imagined, as it wasn't directly mentioned)Dive deeper into the strategies and insights shared by Solvej Biddle by listening to the full episode. Stay tuned for more episodes of "Business Growth Talks," where we explore the complex but rewarding journey of scaling a business from those who have been ther Support the show If you want to watch the full video of this episode go to: https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks Do you want to be a guest on multiple podcasts as a service go to: www.podcastintroduction.com Find more details about the podcast and my coaching business on: www.businessgrowthtalks.com Find me on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayw... Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mjh169183 YouTube Shorts - https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks/shorts

    48 min
  3. Building Websites in Days: The Secret Sauce Behind Lindy Nowak's Success

    DEC 1

    Building Websites in Days: The Secret Sauce Behind Lindy Nowak's Success

    Send us a text In this episode of Business Growth Talks, host Mark Hayward sits down with Lindy Nowak, the innovative Founder and CEO behind Up in a Day. They delve into how Lindy transitioned from a high-flying career in New York City's creative sector to establishing a groundbreaking web agency dedicated to delivering perfectly polished websites in a fraction of the time and cost. Lindy explains the significance of her agency’s unique approach in supporting small businesses by maintaining strong client relationships and providing streamlined processes that deliver results, showcasing the blend of her artistic and strategic skills. The conversation offers unrivaled insights into entrepreneurial pivoting, industry-specific challenges, and innovative business models poised for success in the digital marketing landscape. Throughout the episode, Lindy shares valuable insights into the importance of understanding client needs, relationships, and robust backend SEO practices. Her firm’s model leverages the efficiency of platforms like Squarespace, eschewing standard templates to craft tailor-made solutions truly reflective of clients' brand idiosyncrasies. She discusses the evolution of her company and highlights critical strategies like targeted LinkedIn outreach and podcast engagements that have elevated Up in a Day’s footprint. This episode is a must for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to align aesthetically pleasing design with strategic business outcomes. Key Takeaways: Rapid Website Deployment: Up in a Day offers quickly deployable, customizable websites built with a strong strategic and marketing focus.Client-Driven Process: Fostering strong client relationships is key, understanding their pain points, and crafting tailored solutions.Efficient Use of Platforms: Leveraging no-code platforms like Squarespace helps achieve both speed and precision in web design.Diversified Client Approaches: While focusing initially on niches like coaches, expanding to various sectors has been crucial for sustained business growth.Effective Networking and Marketing: Employing strategic networking and targeted LinkedIn outreach remains a pivotal part of Lindy’s marketing success.SPONSOR Podcast Guesting is your best way to get visbility, credibility and trust by sharing how you add value to your clients. If you want to set up a call, go to the website www.podcastintroduction.com Resources: Up in a Day Website: upinaday.coLindy Nowak on LinkedIn: Lindy NowakEntertainment Weekly and Bon Appetit Magazine: PubSupport the show If you want to watch the full video of this episode go to: https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks Do you want to be a guest on multiple podcasts as a service go to: www.podcastintroduction.com Find more details about the podcast and my coaching business on: www.businessgrowthtalks.com Find me on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayw... Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mjh169183 YouTube Shorts - https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks/shorts

    55 min
  4. From Sportscaster to Video Business Owner - Mike Perlow’s Unconventional Path to Success

    NOV 24

    From Sportscaster to Video Business Owner - Mike Perlow’s Unconventional Path to Success

    Send us a text In this episode of Business Growth Talks, host Mark Hayward sits down with Mike Perlow, an entrepreneur who made a significant pivot from sports broadcasting to creating a thriving video production business. Mike shares his fascinating journey, starting from a high school sports talk show to becoming a sportscaster, and finally establishing Perlo Productions. His story is filled with lessons on leveraging past experience, understanding digital marketing, and the fundamental importance of storytelling in business growth. Mike discusses the unexpected yet organic growth of his company, touching on critical areas like creative leadership and digital strategies that helped him serve big names like Dell and Subaru. He emphasizes the challenges he faced along the way, including learning about business operations on the go and the transition from a micromanager to an innovative leader. Throughout the conversation, Mike offers insights into how businesses can use video content to effectively convey their message, detailing his work with varied clients and the importance of strategic marketing. His transition from broadcasting to entrepreneurship serves as a masterclass in adaptability and foresight, offering listeners valuable insights into scaling and succeeding in business. Key Takeaways: Transitioning Careers: Mike's journey from sportscaster to entrepreneur highlights the importance of adaptability and leveraging past experiences.Power of Storytelling: Effective storytelling in video production can significantly enhance a business's outreach and engagement.Building Strong Teams: Trusting and empowering a team of freelancers has been essential to the growth of Perlo Productions.Client Relationships: Focus on understanding clients' unique needs to create impactful and relevant content.Resilience in Business: Persistence and a positive mindset are key to overcoming the inevitable challenges faced in entrepreneurship.SPONSORS: If you want to set up a call with Christine Campbell Rapin at Clear Acceleration to achieve your business goals of growth and scale go to https://book.christinecampbellrapin.com/more-buyers-more-sales?am_id=markhayward Resources: Perlo Productions Website: perloproductions.comLinkedIn: Mike Perlow on LinkedInFacebook: Perlo Productions on FacebookConnective Networking Group: Check out their platform for more networking information and opportunities.Support the show If you want to watch the full video of this episode go to: https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks Do you want to be a guest on multiple podcasts as a service go to: www.podcastintroduction.com Find more details about the podcast and my coaching business on: www.businessgrowthtalks.com Find me on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayw... Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mjh169183 YouTube Shorts - https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks/shorts

    1 hr
  5. From Black Belt to Biotech: Marco Benitez's Journey to Revolutionize Health Tech

    NOV 17

    From Black Belt to Biotech: Marco Benitez's Journey to Revolutionize Health Tech

    Send us a text Podcast Guesting is your best way to get visibility, credibility, and trust by sharing how you add value to your clients.In this episode of Business Growth Talks, hosted by Mark Hayward, listeners are treated to the remarkable journey of Marco Benitez, CEO and co-founder of Rook. Marco shares his path from a Taekwondo champion to spearheading a successful startup in the digital health space. Reflecting on his journey and challenges, Marco provides insights into the synergies between the discipline of martial arts and the resilience required in entrepreneurship. This episode is a masterclass on navigating startup challenges, building strategic partnerships, and the future of personalized healthcare. Marco delves into the inception of Rook, sharing the pivotal moment when he left a secure job in corporate pharma to pursue his dream of building a startup. The conversation covers the hurdles of innovating within healthcare tech, securing investment, and the critical role of discipline in entrepreneurship. With Rook, Marco emphasizes the transformation of wearable device data into actionable insights, underscoring the importance of preventing ailments before they arise. This insightful dialogue is a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs eager to impact the health tech industry. Key Takeaways: Synergy of Disciplines: The discipline and perseverance from Marco’s martial arts background significantly influenced his approach to entrepreneurship.Navigating Initial Challenges: Finding the first client and cultivating trust was crucial to Rook’s early success and customer engagement.Strategic Partnerships: Alliances with entities like InterSystems accelerated Rook’s influence in the health tech industry.Investor Relationships: Building authentic relationships and aligning investors with the company's mission were essential for Rook’s funding success.Importance of Prenvention: Personalized data and proactive healthcare approaches can reshape health industries, offering better outcomes for individuals and organizations alike.SPONSOR Podcast Guesting is your best way to get visbility, credibility and trust by sharing how you add value to your clients. If you want to set up a call, go to the website www.podcastintroduction.com Resources: Rook Website: Try rook IOMarco Benitez on LinkedIn: Marco Antonio BenitezListeners are encouraged to dive into the full episode for more enriching conversations and stay tuned to discover more transformative journeys in the world of business, innovation, and entrepreneurs Support the show If you want to watch the full video of this episode go to: https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks Do you want to be a guest on multiple podcasts as a service go to: www.podcastintroduction.com Find more details about the podcast and my coaching business on: www.businessgrowthtalks.com Find me on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayw... Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mjh169183 YouTube Shorts - https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks/shorts

    49 min
  6. From Chaos to Creativity: The Lessons From A Lifeless Ordinary With Dean Clark

    NOV 10

    From Chaos to Creativity: The Lessons From A Lifeless Ordinary With Dean Clark

    Send us a text In this intriguing episode of Business Growth Talks, host Mark Hayward interviews the captivating Dean Clark. Dean’s life story is nothing short of unconventional, taking him from a miraculous birth and health struggles in Los Angeles to landing opportunities with rock bands and eventually establishing himself in the business world. The episode delves into his early experiences, formative years with dubious company, and subsequent career evolution in the high-stakes environments of commercial real estate and the creative industry. Dean’s life offers profound insights into the unpredictable pathways of success, growth, and redemption. The conversation explores Dean's first major role as a photographer for the emerging band Guns N' Roses and his decisive pivot towards commercial real estate, where he found significant success. The episode highlights Clark's resilience, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit, reflecting his journey from a life fraught with challenges to one filled with purpose. Keywords like "entrepreneurship," "creative industry," "Guns N' Roses," and "career transformation" highlight his story's universal themes, resonating deeply with listeners seeking inspiration through life's adversities. Furthermore, Dean’s newfound faith and exploration into technology-driven future endeavors illustrate his enduring quest for personal and professional reinvention. Key Takeaways: Dean Clark shared his transformative journey from a tumultuous upbringing to a successful career in the creative and real estate industries.He emphasized the importance of being ready for opportunities by honing skills and being persistent, as seen through his extensive work with major industry names.Clark’s experiences with Guns N’ Roses taught valuable lessons about navigating personal challenges and embracing creativity.His later pivot to graphic design signifies the impactful role adaptability plays in long-term career growth.Dean advocates for filling a "God-shaped hole" with purpose and values, illustrating the power of faith and personal conviction in professional life.SPONSORS If you want to set up a call with Christine Campbell Rapin at Clear Acceleration to achieve your business goals of growth and scale go to https://bit.ly/4oUeeRY Resources: Visit Dean Clark’s portfolio at foundstudios.com to explore his work in graphic design and creative agency projects.For more insights, check out foundcmo.com to learn about Dean’s current ventures in marketing and business growth.Discover the story of Guns N' Roses via various documentaries andSupport the show If you want to watch the full video of this episode go to: https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks Do you want to be a guest on multiple podcasts as a service go to: www.podcastintroduction.com Find more details about the podcast and my coaching business on: www.businessgrowthtalks.com Find me on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayw... Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mjh169183 YouTube Shorts - https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks/shorts

    1h 4m
  7. The Power of Relationships: Building Trust for Lasting Impact with Deb Coviello

    NOV 3

    The Power of Relationships: Building Trust for Lasting Impact with Deb Coviello

    Send us a text In this compelling episode of Business Growth Talks, host Mark Hayward engages in a dynamic conversation with Deb Coviello, famously known as the Drop in CEO. A beacon for CEOs facing challenges, Deb uses her profound leadership insights and analytical skills to detail how she aids business leaders in regaining control during crises. From the onset, the episode captures Deb's unique approach to consulting — one that meticulously intertwines quality management, strategic vision, and critical mediation in corporate settings. Through the lens of her vast experience, Deb elucidates the underlying signals of leadership pitfalls and offers actionable advice to foster resilience and sustainability in businesses. Mark and Deb delve into the nuances of leadership, exposing the common blind spots executives face and the pressing need for external insights amidst corporate chaos. Deb's philosophy extends beyond traditional frameworks, emphasizing a bespoke, human-centric strategy that nurtures both core operations and interpersonal relationships. Her approach transcends titles and siloed definitions like 'fractional' versus 'consultant,' focusing instead on crafting tailored, transformative journeys that align leaders with their company's objectives. As the dialogue unfolds, Deb shares about her future endeavors, including her plans to expand the podcast into an exciting new format while continuing to champion innovation through her literary pursuits. Key Takeaways: Deb Coviello stresses the importance of recognizing when leadership methods need evolution due to shifting corporate dynamics.Building consensus and trust is central to successful communication and resolution in leadership roles.Entrepreneurs should diversify their offerings and set up systems to avoid feast-and-famine cycles in business.Fractional roles and consulting both offer unique value; differentiation is key for standing out in a crowded market.Deb highlights the importance of creativity and personal growth throughout professional and personal life.Resources: Deb Coviello’s Website: Drop In CEOLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahacoviello/Books by Deb Coviello:"The CEO Compass"Upcoming: "The New CEO Playbook"Deb Coviello’s Podcast: The Drop In CEOJoin us in exploring how seasoned entrepreneurs, CEOs, and industry leaders like Deb Coviello are innovating paths to success. Listen to the full episode for a deep dive into strategies for business growth and stay tuned for more enriching conversations every week on Business Growth Talks Support the show If you want to watch the full video of this episode go to: https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks Do you want to be a guest on multiple podcasts as a service go to: www.podcastintroduction.com Find more details about the podcast and my coaching business on: www.businessgrowthtalks.com Find me on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayw... Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mjh169183 YouTube Shorts - https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks/shorts

    52 min
4.8
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Business Growth Talks podcast is created and hosted by Mark Hayward. In this show we talk about how to grow a business in the Growth Stage. The growth stage is often marked by rapid developments, increased revenue, and an escalating customer base. ​  In each episode we talk to entrepreneurs and business owners who have grown businesses and we cover topics like scaling processes, market expansion, financial management, human resource and talent development, and customer retention. If you are looking for actionable advice, tips, and techniques on how to grow, run and build your business, this is the podcast for you!Find more details about the podcast www.businessgrowthtalks.comIf you want to be a guest on 24 or 48 shows to build your personal or professional brand then go to:www.podcastintroduction.comBe a supporter of the channel - https://www.patreon.com/BusinessgrowthtalksFind me onLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayward-163721a0/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/markjhayward​Twitter - https://twitter.com/markhayward169TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mjh169183

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