The Next 100 Days Podcast Kevin Appleby & Graham Arrowsmith

Business Consulting

Erin Marcus offers business consulting from her Chicago base. Her business is called Conquer Your Business.



Podcast Summary

Introducing Erin



* Erin, Kevin, and Graham had a lively conversation about Erin's background in Chicago.

* They discussed her transition from corporate to entrepreneurship and their shared love for TV shows set in Chicago.

* Erin left her job as a senior vice president of business development in the insurance industry.

* She left to start her own franchise that provided hands-on assistance to families with ageing parents.

* She believed that this new venture aligned with her previous experience in the age-related product market.



It's all about relationships, stupid!



* Graham, Erin, and Kevin discussed the importance of understanding people and building relationships in business.

* They emphasised that creating meaningful connections and being systematic about maintaining them can lead to significant growth and opportunities.

* Kevin, Erin, and Graham reflected on the importance of cultivating relationships and helping others.

* They discussed how personal experiences and self-reliance.

* These shape belief that they could create their own path, while emphasising the need to make decisions for oneself to avoid others making them for you.



Take Personal Responsibility



* Graham, Erin, and Kevin discussed the importance of taking personal responsibility and not blaming others for one's failures.

* They discussed the need to take action, learn from mistakes, and adapt in order to achieve success.

* Erin, Graham, and Kevin discussed the importance of having a clear vision and plan in business.

* Many people make the mistake of not knowing what they want to create, and highlighted the need to think like a business owner in order to scale and succeed.



Have a Plan



* Erin, Graham, and Kevin discussed the importance of having a plan beyond just financial goals and focusing on outcomes rather than processes in business.

* They talked about reverse engineering strategies, making informed decisions, and taking consistent action to achieve desired results.

* Erin discussed her ability to solve her clients' problem of lack of time by bringing in her COO and other experts.



Inspired by...Pink?



* She also mentioned her inspiration from the rock star Pink, who does things her own way with a strong work ethic.

* More discussion of motivation, failure, and the importance of taking action.

* The value of being open to feedback, overcoming challenges, and the desire to have meaningful conversations with individuals who have experienced personal growth.



Underdogs - Are They an Ideal Audience for Business Consulting?



* Erin shared her belief in helping underdogs and empowering people to be in charge of their own outcomes through access to information.

* They also discussed the enjoyable mix of real conversation, tactical information, and humour on the podcast.

* Concept of failure and how it can be reframed as a learning experience.

* They also talked about scheduling conflicts and the need for a better system to handle cancellations and rescheduling.



Clips from the Podcast

Why Did Erin Leave Corporate?

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Erin-Marcus-Why-Leave-Corporate.mp4

Erin Wears Lots of Different Hats, and She Loves it!

http://thenext100days.

The False Exit

The False Exit is the name of a new book by returning guest John Lamerton. With this appearance, John Lamerton becomes our most frequent returning guest. He's been on four times! Enough already!





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Summary of Podcast 

The False Exit - John's New Book





* We start by discussing John's book titled "The False Exit: How to Exit Your Business and Still Own It."

* The book was inspired by John's accidental exit from his main business and explores the process of systemising and optimising a business for a successful exit.



How to Achieve a False Exit



* John, Graham, and Kevin discussed the concept of achieving a "false exit" in their businesses.

* They explored the importance of having clear vision and values.

* Additionally, they chatted about implementing systems and processes, and empowering the right people.

* The plan is for these people to run the business without their direct involvement.



Riverford Organic Farms



* Graham, Kevin, and John discussed the success of Riverford Farms, a business that converted to organic farming and prioritised their values.

* They highlighted how Riverford's commitment to their vision and values.

* These exist even after the founder's exit, allowing them to make decisions aligned with their principles and gain customer trust.

* John and Kevin discuss the importance of trust and having the right people in a business.

* They also talk about the challenge of breaking old habits and routines to create a more efficient and successful business.



Approaching Retirement



* We had to mentioned retirement!

* Like passing on their expertise and maintaining their passion for their businesses as they approached retirement.

* They also mentioned Queen Elizabeth as an example of how delegation and evolving leadership can help sustain an organisation over time.



Getting the Right People



* The importance of having the right people, values, vision, and decision-making framework in an organisation was discussed.

* They emphasised that values should be based on personal beliefs rather than what looks good on paper.



The Right Chemistry - The Next 100 Days Podcast



* Graham, Kevin, and John discussed the challenges and chemistry of their podcast, reflecting on their values and the reasons for their long-term commitment.

* They also touched on John's pivotal moment of realising the need for clearer vision and values in his business decision-making process.



This is Where We Should Have Started the Podcast - John Having His Tantrum!



* John realised that he couldn't handle the overwhelming responsibilities in his life anymore, leading to a pivotal moment where he decided to make a change.

* He made a list of everything he was responsible for and how it made him feel, which helped him see the need to let go and find a better balance.

* John, Kevin, and Graham had a conversation about John's book and his experiences with business ownership and exit strategies.

* They discussed the importance of having a clear plan and focusing on activities that bring energy and value.

* On top of that, they acknowledged the need for personal development and reflection.



Clips from the Podcast

The Book's Origin Story

a href="http://thenext100days.

Personal Development

Amanda & Engel Jones have created the first of 12 personal development books. We recorded the podcast just one week before Engel turned 40. This podcast was all about having a good time, talking to friends and diving deep into brilliant personal development ideas.





Podcast Summary

A Returning Hero



* Kevin, Amanda, Engel, and Graham talked about releasing a series of 12 books on YouTube, discussing backgrounds for shows, and planning interviews with designers.

* They also mentioned Kevin's grandchildren and introduced Amanda as a guest.



The Books



* Engel, Graham, and Kevin discussed creating a book series that focuses on personal development.

* The series is divided into three blocks: "Who am I?" "Why am I here?" and "Do I matter?" each consisting of four books that explore different aspects of self-discovery and reflection.

* Engel, Graham, and Kevin discussed the importance of understanding one's identity and choosing based on personal values.

* They emphasised the significance of consequences and hoped that their book would guide young readers in making thoughtful decisions.



Intentions and Choices



* Engel, Graham, and Kevin discussed the importance of intentions and choices in achieving desired outcomes.

* They also touched on self-assessment and affirming one's beliefs to understand their purpose in life.

* Engel and Graham discussed the achievement of Engel's 12 books and their impact on helping others pursue excellence.

* They also mentioned receiving feedback from beta readers.



Targeting 



* Engel, Graham, and Kevin discussed the target audience for their book, which was primarily the Caribbean audience but also aimed to resonate with the Caribbean diaspora.

* They also touched on the marketing strategies for reaching local and expat populations.



Stage Play & PR



* Engel, Graham, and Kevin discussed the launch of Engel's book and the idea of turning it into a stage production.

* They also discussed marketing strategies, including podcasts and postcards, to expand their audience and promote their work.

* Graham, Kevin, and Engel discussed the potential of using PR and television to promote their book launch event.

* They also considered the impact of their true-life story, which had elements of faith, on their audience.



Their Book Captivated a 17-Year-Old



* Engel, Graham, and Kevin discussed their book and its impact on readers, particularly a 17-year-old girl engrossed in the story.

* They also discussed their plans to create group sessions for self-reflection and personal growth, welcoming people from different backgrounds, including ex-pat Caribbeans.



Podcasting



* Engel, Graham, Kevin, and others talked about their experience being guests on the Next 100 Days podcast.

* They discussed their enjoyment of the podcast, guests' diversity, and appreciation for the hosts' work.

* Kevin, Graham, and Engel discussed the importance of consistency in writing and the need for mentorship in the Caribbean.



Interview Possibilities 



* They also talked about the challenges of creating products that apply to specific markets and the value of actively listening to target audiences.

* Graham, Engel, and Kevin discussed various topics, including personal development, target audience, and marketing strategies for a book. 

* They explored the idea of using recorded conversations to capture the essence of the individuals and enhance the creative process.



Clips from the Podcast

12 Books

a href="http://thenext100days.

Property Investing

Agam Jain, Managing Director of Vector Capital Plc, joins The Next 100 Days podcast to discuss property investing. Vector Capital has three main ways for investors to generate returns:



* Loan notes - Investors can participate in the Vector loan note program, which pays 10% annual interest for investments above £100k.

* Co-funding - Currently, rates for Co-funders vary from 8% p.a. - a 1st or 2nd charge on land or property secures 12% p.a. All loans issued.  

* Available properties - Exclusive access to a range of re-possessed residential and commercial properties at favourable pre-auction prices.





Summary of Podcast



* Our guest is Agam Jain from Vector Capital, a PLC specialising in finance for land and property development.

* We discussed the process of becoming a public company through an IPO.





An Impressive Property Investing Loan Book!



* Vector's loan book totals over £50million.



Attracting High Net Worth & Sophisticated Investors



* We discussed Vector Capital's business model, including its loan book, the metrics it monitors, and how investors can participate.

* They also discussed the refinancing process and potential future changes in interest rates.

* Graham, Vector, and Kevin discussed various lending and property investment aspects.



Re-possessed Properties



* We covered interest rates, distressed properties, and the options available to investors, including buying, renting, flipping, or building a property portfolio.



Successful Track Record



* Kevin and Graham discuss the benefits and risks of bridging finance with Vector Capital.

* Agam explained its successful track record in resolving loans and the importance of being a public company with strict regulations and auditing processes.

* Investors are attracted to Vector because it is a PLC that must follow the rules.



Clips from the Podcast

Becoming a PLC

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Agam-Jain-Becoming-a-PLC.mp4

Agam's Back Story

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Agam-Jain-Back-Story.mp4

The Human Touch, Don't Rely on AI

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Agam-Jain-Dont-Rely-on-AI.mp4

Bridging - Land and Property

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Agam-Jain-Bridging.mp4

How Vector Works with Investors

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Agam-Jain-Co-Funding.mp4

A Small Percentage of Loans Go Bad - An Investor Opportunity

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Agam-Jain-Bad-Loans-Opportunity.mp4

Testimonial from Agam Jain

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Agam-Jain-Testimonial.mp4

The Next 100 Days co-hosts…

Graham Arrowsmith





Graham founded Finely Fettled to help marketers who want to market to affluent and high-net-worth customers.

Coaching Creative Businesses

Coaching creative businesses is how Angie Colee gets through the day. She's a pretty spirited individual. Direct, sometimes uses industrial language (would make a great Leeds United fan)! But a young woman spotted a massive improvement for one of the legends of the direct response marketing market - Jeff Walker.





Podcast Summary



* Kevin, Graham, and Angie had a conversation where they discussed various topics such as meeting each other, getting rid of a certain thing, their locations, horseback riding in Texas, going to court, Angie's book, and the content of the book.



Angie's Career Hop



* Angie, Graham, and Kevin engaged in a conversation where Angie discussed her transition from marketing and copywriting to helping entrepreneurs with their leadership and communication skills.

* They also touched on the importance of identifying the true source of problems and addressing them effectively.

* Angie, Kevin, and Graham discussed the importance of listening to others' opinions and being open to different solutions.

* Angie shared her experience of learning to be a better leader by allowing her team members to contribute their own ideas.



Coaching Creative Businesses - Even Jeff Walker's Business!



* Angie helped Jeff Walker create a voice guide and onboarding system for copywriters.

* She broke down the company's voice, provided systematic onboarding, and worked closely with Jeff to write in his style, resulting in successful copywriting that sounded like Jeff himself.



Angie Finds the Hidden Opportunities



* In the conversation, Graham, Angie, and Kevin discuss Angie's ability to find hidden opportunities in businesses.

* They also talk about her experiences working with influential people and offer advice on how to approach and interact with them.



Permission to Kick Ass 





* Graham, Angie, and Kevin discussed Angie's website design, with Graham complimenting the use of red.

* Angie shared that her website stands out and receives positive feedback.



Coaching Style



* They also talked about Angie's coaching style, focusing on helping individuals uncover their true desires and removing interference to reach their potential.

* Kevin, Graham, and Angie discussed the types of clients Angie wants to work with, specifically creative service providers and entrepreneurs who are at the messy growth stage and need help simplifying and delegating tasks.



Strengths Finder



* They also talked about the importance of embracing strengths and quirks in leadership and the need to surround oneself with trusted individuals who can provide a different perspective.

* Kevin, Angie, and Graham discussed their strengths and how they can complement each other in their podcast.

* They also talked about the benefits of using the Strengths assessment to understand their blind spots and enhance their business and creative endeavours.



Clips from the Podcast

How Does Graham Get Away With This?

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Angie-Colee-4-Part-Documentary-on-Newcastle-United.mp4

Angie Colee Introduced by Gio Marcus

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Angie-Colee-Comedy-Podcast.mp4

Permission to Kick Ass (Angie's new book)

a href="http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Angie-Colee-Permission-to-Kick-Ass.

How do You Deliver 5 Star Customer Service?

Debbie Homer-Davis is the Managing Director of BabyLady and hails from Canterbury, Kent. Kevin and Graham really learned a lot about customer service. Debbie has spent 32 years honing her skills. Perhaps her finest achievement is her team. She really cares deeply about them and they in turn deliver for BabyLady clients.





Summary of Podcast



* Graham, Kevin, and Debbie discussed Debbie's journey of starting her own business after facing redundancy in the payroll and finance industry.

* They also talked about Debbie's background in running a business in Kent and her passion for entrepreneurship.



The Nappy Venture



* Debbie set up a nappy delivery service 32 years ago, but the market crashed due to supermarkets slashing prices.

* She then opened a baby shop in Canterbury, which became popular for its focus on reusable cloth nappies and providing information for informed choices.



Customer Service is Crucial



* Debbie, Graham, and Kevin discussed the success of Debbie's team and their ability to find solutions for difficult problems in the baby retail industry.

* They also talked about the challenges of fitting car seats and how Debbie's YouTube channel and QR codes provide helpful instructions for customers all over the country and internationally.



Sourcing Products From Around the World



* Debbie, Graham, and Kevin discussed the advantages of sourcing products from Europe and the importance of building relationships with suppliers.

* They also highlighted the unique value they offer compared to Amazon, emphasizing their expertise, personalised customer service, and proactive approach to problem-solving.

* Graham, Debbie, and Kevin discussed the importance of customer service and how it can be challenging to maintain in both physical and online businesses.

* They emphasised the need for staff buy-in, education on customer service from an early age, and the value of authenticity in providing honest reviews and assistance to customers.



The Impact of Artificial Intelligence



* Graham, Debbie, and Kevin discussed the potential impact of AI on various industries, including customer service and photography. T

* They also talked about the challenges of expanding Debbie's nursery business and the importance of authentic human connection in certain fields.

* In the conversation, Debbie discussed her business Baby Lady and the challenges of competing with larger retailers like Amazon.

* Graham and Kevin praised Debbie for her customer service and emphasised the importance of supporting small businesses.



Clips from the Podcast

Babylady Provides Information for You to Make Informed Choices

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Debbie-Homer-Davis-Information-in-the-80s.mp4

Customer Service Takes Good People

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Debbie-Homer-Davis-Customer-Service-Takes-Good-People.mp4

What a Wonderful Attitude to People...

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Debbie-Homer-Davis-A-People-Attitude.mp4

Come on Britain, Start Manufacturing Again!

http://thenext100days.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Debbie-Homer-Davis-Manufacturing-in-The-UK.mp4