ScaleUp Radio

ScaleUp Radio, produced by MonkeyPants Productions and hosted by Kevin Brent.

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Latest Episodes

Episode #504 - Finding A Competitive Advantage In An AI World - with Sameer Rahman

Episode #504 - Finding A Competitive Advantage In An AI World - with Sameer Rahman

In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Sameer Rahman, the CEO of Datamonet – a consultancy helping organisations build data and AI strategies that drive commercial value. With a background in data science and years of experience across sectors, Sameer shares his insights into how small and medium businesses can get smarter with data without needing to become tech giants.

Sameer founded Datamonet to tackle a problem he saw time and again – decision-makers who were data-rich but insight-poor. Through tailored consulting, from “power hours” to deep-dive strategy projects, Sameer helps businesses turn data into a growth engine.

Together, they explore:

  • Why data literacy in boardrooms is often the biggest barrier to success
  • How small businesses can use open-source and purchased data to craft powerful strategies
  • The role of AI as an enabler, not a silver bullet – and why human insight still matters
  • Why so many digital transformation projects fail, and what you can do to avoid the same fate

Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts.

For now, continue listening for the full story from Sameer.

Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for.

If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here:

https://bizsmarts.co.uk/scaleupradio/kevin

You can get in touch with Kevin here:

kevin@biz-smart.co.uk

 

Kevin's Latest Book Is Available!

Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, Kevin Brent explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up.

More on the Book HERE - https://www.esusgroup.co.uk/

Sameer can be found here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sameer-rahman-data/

 

Resources:

Don’t Make Me Think by Steve Krug - https://www.waterstones.com/book/dont-make-me-think-revisited/steve-krug/9780321965516

Who Moved My Cheese? by Dr Spencer Johnson - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/who-moved-my-cheese-dr-spencer-johnson/2195963?ean=9780091816971

Driven By Data podcast - https://driven-by-data-the-podcast.captivate.fm/

 

Episode #503 - Why Knowing Your Ideal Customer Changes Everything for Growth - with David Allen

Episode #503 - Why Knowing Your Ideal Customer Changes Everything for Growth - with David Allen

Hi, I’m Granger Forson, business coach at www.bizsmart-gloucestershire.co.uk. You can also find me on LinkedIn. In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Dave Allen, Managing Director of Square One Network, a B2B telecoms provider based in Bristol.

Dave’s journey is a great example of leadership growth in action.

 

Having fallen into the telecoms world in the late 90s, Dave has built his career around the belief that communication is at the heart of all good business. Since becoming MD of Square One Network, he’s steered the company through significant cultural shifts, focusing on building a local-first, people-centred telecoms business.

 

In this conversation, Dave shares how taking the time to properly define their ideal customer profile transformed their marketing and growth strategy. He speaks openly about the importance of getting the right people into the business, often hiring on personality first and skills second. His philosophy is simple: people buy from people.

 

We also dive into the financial disciplines Dave adopted after inheriting a company that had experienced several rounds of private equity investment. His lessons on forecasting, cash flow management, and building sustainable growth are invaluable for any business leader.

 

Finally, you’ll hear Dave’s vision for growing Square One Network organically, without losing the personal service that’s become its trademark. If you want inspiration for building a business that balances heart and performance, this episode is for you.

 

To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts.

S

o, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of communication, clarity and culture with Dave.

 

Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for.

 

If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here:

https://bizsmarts.co.uk/scaleupradio/kevin

 

Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff.
https://api.goexela.com/widget/bookings/catchupgrangerugx7zl

 

You can get in touch with Granger here:

grangerf@biz-smart.co.uk

 

 

Kevin's Latest Book Is Available!

Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, Kevin Brent explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up.

More on the Book HERE - https://www.esusgroup.co.uk/

 

David can be found here:

https://www.squareone.network/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-allen-03b3135b/

 

Resources:

The Go To Market Playbook by Paul Watson - https://www.amazon.co.uk/MARKET-HANDBOOK-B2B-SaaS-LEADERS-ebook/dp/B0CJ9BPCDK

Cookie Jar Golf podcast - https://www.cookiejargolf.com/podcast-episodes/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/

 

 

Episode #502 - 500 Episodes - Celebrating the Journey

Episode #502 - 500 Episodes - Celebrating the Journey

In this episode Kevin Brent looks back on 500 episodes of ScaleUp Radio, taking a moment to reflect on the invaluable lessons, insights, and stories gathered from hundreds of conversations with ambitious entrepreneurs and business leaders.

With its mission rooted in making the scale-up journey easier by learning from others' experiences, ScaleUp Radio has consistently highlighted what it truly takes to build a valuable and scalable business.

💡 Core Takeaways from 500 Episodes

  • Scaling vs. Growth: Real scale comes from optimising systems—not just adding more resources. Greg Baldwin's use of “swim lane” processes at Highways Traffic Management is a textbook example.
  • Cash is King: Profitability trumps vanity metrics. From Russell Walters’ budgeting strategies to Mark Wright’s advice on financial planning, the message is clear: don’t operate too lean.
  • People & Culture Matter: From Amy Marshall’s careful hiring to Serge Santos’s “no dickhead policy,” putting people first drives performance.
  • Mentorship & Accountability: Leaders thrive when they learn from others and hold themselves accountable—through boards, coaches, or mentors.
  • Customer-Centricity: Exceptional service leads to long-term loyalty. ALM Fitness and RB Walters Estate Agents have both built their reputations on this principle.
  • Resilience & Adaptability: Pivoting during crises like COVID-19 has been a hallmark of many guests’ success stories.
  • Vision Beyond Profit: Entrepreneurs like Himmat Rai built lasting value through long-term thinking—such as investing in infrastructure and developing scalable software.

🌟 Guest Highlights

  • Serge Santos used acquisition as a stepping stone to launch a scalable business, emphasising discipline and operational excellence.
  • Amy Marshall transitioned her business model to subscriptions and expanded online during the pandemic.
  • Russell Walters redefined estate agency service standards, building deep trust and brand reputation.
  • Greg Baldwin enhanced structure and social value in a traditionally hands-on industry.
  • Himmat Rai innovated within health and safety consultancy by creating proprietary tech and structuring a scalable associate model.
  • Mark Wright encouraged big thinking, investment in sales and marketing, and being known as an expert in your field.

🔭 Looking Ahead

ScaleUp Radio’s guests are not standing still. Future ambitions include:

  • Continued growth with better balance (e.g., four-day workweeks).
  • Product innovation and hybrid service models.
  • A pursuit of professional pride and enjoyment alongside business success.

💬 Standout Quote

“You have to build a brand, not just a business.” – Mark Wright

🎯 The One Key Thing...

The one key thing from 500 episodes? Sustainable scale is built on systems, people, and vision—backed by resilience and a long-term mindset.

 

Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for.

If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here:

https://bizsmarts.co.uk/scaleupradio/kevin

You can get in touch with Kevin & Granger here:

kevin@biz-smart.co.uk

grangerf@biz-smart.co.uk

 

Kevin's Latest Book Is Available!

Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, Kevin Brent explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up.

More on the Book HERE - https://www.esusgroup.co.uk/

 

 

Episode #501 - Revolutionising Pet Care With the Dental Wand - with Victor Carpio

Episode #501 - Revolutionising Pet Care With the Dental Wand - with Victor Carpio

In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent sits down with Victor Carpio, the innovative founder of Inventor Smart Care, to discuss how a passion for solving a common pet health problem led to the creation of a world-first product: the Dental Wand – a toothbrush designed specifically to let cats control their own dental care.

Victor shares the journey of launching a startup in a niche but high-potential market, including the challenges of developing a product for animals, bootstrapping through multiple prototypes, and preparing for national TV exposure on Dragons' Den. He also dives into the mindset shifts required for scaling – from selling directly to consumers to forging B2B partnerships and managing growing logistics demands.

This episode is a treasure trove for product inventors, early-stage entrepreneurs, and anyone fascinated by the mechanics of turning a big idea into a real-world solution.

Highlights From This Episode:

  • Inventing With Purpose: Why Victor focused on solving a real health issue affecting 85% of UK cats, and why understanding your “why” is more important than just having a patent.
  • From Cat Behaviour to Product Design: The surprisingly complex R&D behind the Dental Wand and how AI and 3D printing could help future inventors save time and money.
  • Scaling Smartly: Transitioning from D2C to B2B, the growing pains of supply chain management, and the critical importance of not being reliant on a single supplier.
  • The Dragons’ Den Effect: What happened when Victor pitched to the Dragons, and why the real win wasn’t the investment offer, but the brand exposure.
  • Customer Insights: How deep psychographic understanding and a sophisticated email nurturing system helped Victor acquire customers for less than £5.

Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts.

For now, continue listening for the full story from Victor.

 

Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for.

If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here:

https://bizsmarts.co.uk/scaleupradio/kevin

You can get in touch with Kevin here:

kevin@biz-smart.co.uk

Kevin's Latest Book Is Available!

Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, Kevin Brent explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up.

More on the Book HERE - https://www.esusgroup.co.uk/

 

Victor can be found here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-carpio-404914125/

meow@inventorcat.co.uk

 

Resources:

Pet Industry Federation - https://petfederation.co.uk/

Start with Why by Simon Sinek - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/start-with-why-15th-anniversary-edition-how-great-leaders-inspire-everyone-to-take-action-simon-sinek/7820616?ean=9781405977593

Atomic Habits by James Clear - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/atomic-habits-the-life-changing-million-copy-1-bestseller-james-clear/2458373?ean=9781847941831

Headway app - https://makeheadway.com/onboarding

Mailchimp - https://mailchimp.com/landers

HubSpot - https://www.hubspot.com/products

Gather - https://www.gather.town/

 

Episode #500 - Sustainability Isn’t a Side Hustle, It’s the Future of Businesses making a Local Impacts - with Emma Burlow

Episode #500 - Sustainability Isn’t a Side Hustle, It’s the Future of Businesses making a Local Impacts - with Emma Burlow

Hi, I’m Granger Forson – find me at www.bizsmart-gloucestershire.co.uk or connect with me on LinkedIn. On this edition of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Emma Burlow, founder of Lighthouse Sustainability and a leading voice in the world of circular economy and sustainable business.

 

Emma’s journey spans over 25 years in sustainability – and she’s not just talking the talk. From her early days in waste management to becoming head of circular economy at Resource Futures and founding her own business, she’s been on the front line helping organisations make a genuine, lasting impact.

 

In our conversation, Emma shares how Lighthouse Sustainability helps businesses scale by embedding sustainability in ways that are practical, measurable, and commercially viable. She challenges the myth that being ethical is expensive, showing instead how sustainability is a driver of innovation, customer loyalty, and investor confidence.

 

We dive into her #BeTheDifference campaign, her experience advising start-ups and multinationals alike, and the shift in mindset required to build a business that’s not just successful, but significant. With storytelling and clear frameworks, Emma shows business leaders how to take action that counts – and how to communicate it with credibility.

 

If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with purpose, balance commercial goals with climate responsibilities, or bring your team on board with sustainable growth, this episode is packed with insights and practical wisdom.

 

To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts.

 

So, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of impact, purpose and leadership with Emma Burlow.

 

Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for.

 

Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff.
https://api.goexela.com/widget/bookings/catchupgrangerugx7zl

 

If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here:

https://bizsmarts.co.uk/scaleupradio/kevin

 

You can get in touch with Granger here:

grangerf@biz-smart.co.uk

 

Kevin's Latest Book Is Available!

 

Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, Kevin Brent explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up.

More on the Book HERE - https://www.esusgroup.co.uk/

 

Emma can be found here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmaburlow/

https://lighthouse-sustainability.co.uk/

50% off course for ScaleUp Radio listeners using the code SUR50 - https://lighthouse-sustainability.co.uk/upcoming-courses/

 

Resources:

Work Like A Woman by Mary Portas - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/work-like-a-woman-a-manifesto-for-change-mary-portas/1475832?ean=9781784163624

Outrage & Optimism podcast - https://www.outrageandoptimism.org/

Straight Talking Sustainability podcast - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/straight-talking-sustainabilit-5893904?

Frustrated & Exhausted podcast - https://resonateleadership.co.uk/podcast

Starling Banking app - https://www.starlingbank.com/download/

Episode #499 - A Mission to Reinvent Fleet Security Through Camaraderie and Code - with Kevin Pope

Episode #499 - A Mission to Reinvent Fleet Security Through Camaraderie and Code - with Kevin Pope

Hi, I’m Granger Forson – find me at www.bizsmart-gloucestershire.co.uk or connect with me on LinkedIn. In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Kevin Pope, the dynamic Managing Director of Protrack Solutions and Biostart Security.

Kevin’s story begins with a military mindset and a knack for spotting opportunity. After leaving the army, he entered the world of telematics and soon saw a gap he just had to fill. That leap of faith led to Protrack – a vehicle and fleet tracking business that’s now an innovation leader in compliance apps and software integration for businesses across the UK.

What stands out in Kevin’s journey is his relentless problem-solving spirit. From creating barcode-based vehicle safety checks to pioneering job scheduling and compliance management apps, his company helps clients save time, money and stress. Their standout system, OneCore Software (OCS), brings simplicity and centralisation to what’s often a fragmented operational nightmare.

But Kevin didn’t stop there. Enter Biostart – a biometric vehicle ignition and security system that stops theft before it even happens. This bold move, supported by over £1 million in smart funding, is set to disrupt the fleet management industry with its Fathom-approved, patent-protected innovation.

Through it all, Kevin has stayed true to his values: loyalty, camaraderie, and looking after his people. Whether it's unlimited holidays, flexible hours, or just asking, “What am I doing wrong?”, his leadership is as people-focused as it is pioneering.

To ensure you don’t miss any inspirational future episodes do subscribe to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts.

So, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of innovation, resilience and camaraderie with Kevin Pope.

 

Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for.

Book a call with Granger - 30 minutes value add conversation for Business owners with Staff.
https://api.goexela.com/widget/bookings/catchupgrangerugx7zl

If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here:

https://bizsmarts.co.uk/scaleupradio/kevin

You can get in touch with Granger here:

grangerf@biz-smart.co.uk

 

Kevin's Latest Book Is Available!

Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, Kevin Brent explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up.

More on the Book HERE - https://www.esusgroup.co.uk/

 

Kevin can be found here:

https://protrack-group.com/

kevin@protrack-group.com

https://biostartsecurity.co.uk/

 

Resources:

Bravo Two Zero by Andy McNabb - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/bravo-two-zero-the-original-sas-story-andy-mcnab/4166493?ean=9780552168823

Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/extreme-ownership-how-u-s-navy-seals-lead-and-win-jocko-willink/651009?ean=9781250183866

Waze app - https://www.waze.com/apps/

What3Words - https://what3words.com/products/what3words-app

 

Episode #498 - Building Meaningful Business Communities Online – with James West

Episode #498 - Building Meaningful Business Communities Online – with James West

In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, we dive into the world of business networking with James West, the co-founder of Onle Networking – a platform that’s reimagining how small businesses connect, collaborate and grow through a fully online model.

Founded on the belief that great business relationships are built on authenticity and community rather than pressure and rules, Onle has grown impressively to 360 members across 25 UK groups, with recent expansion into Ireland and the US. Unlike traditional models, Onle operates entirely online and uses a flexible monthly subscription model designed to foster genuine connections without the rigidity often associated with networking groups.

James shares how his journey from IT journalist to business owner and networker led to the creation of Onle alongside his wife – whom he met at a networking event! His insights reveal the importance of culture, trust and systems in scaling a relationship-driven business.

In this episode, we explore:

  • How Onle’s online-only structure and culture-first philosophy distinguish it from conventional networking platforms
  • The practical and mindset challenges of scaling, including maintaining intimacy across a growing number of groups
  • James’s approach to franchising via “pod owners”, and the importance of systems and community tools like Heartbeat
  • The broader market opportunity, with over 5.5 million UK small businesses in Onle’s target range
  • Why online networking can offer a more inclusive space for people with caring responsibilities or introverted personalities

We also delve into James’s personal story, including the mental health benefits he sees in meaningful networking and his belief that professional connections can be life-changing.

Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts.

For now, continue listening for the full story from James.

 

Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for.

If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here:

https://bizsmarts.co.uk/scaleupradio/kevin

You can get in touch with Kevin here:

kevin@biz-smart.co.uk

 

Kevin's Latest Book Is Available!

Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, Kevin Brent explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up.

More on the Book HERE - https://www.esusgroup.co.uk/

 

James can be found here:

https://theonle.network/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesonlenetworking/

 

Resources:

Lost Connections by Johann Hari - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/lost-connections-why-you-re-depressed-and-how-to-find-hope-johann-hari/910739?ean=9781408878729

Stolen Focus by Johann Hari - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/stolen-focus-why-you-can-t-pay-attention-johann-hari/5052458?ean=9781526620224

Adventures In Networking podcast - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL37ujAqY1iCijdEECUgBc2THNVe6oKCE7

Heartbeat app - https://www.heartbeat.chat/

 

Episode #497 - Authenticity & Real Stories Are The Superpower Of The Small Business - with Guy Hayward

Episode #497 - Authenticity & Real Stories Are The Superpower Of The Small Business - with Guy Hayward

In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, we're joined by Guy Hayward, founder of Local Heroes Marketing – a business born from a mission to help independent companies compete against much larger rivals. With over 30 years of experience in global advertising for brands like Nike, Adidas, Microsoft, and Coca-Cola, Guy brings a wealth of insight into how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can level the playing field through smarter, more authentic marketing.

Local Heroes Marketing, launched just over a year ago, is all about enabling SMEs to “punch above their weight.” In our conversation, Guy outlines how storytelling, authenticity, and well-leveraged digital tools can empower smaller businesses to reach and resonate with their audience more effectively than ever before.

Key Themes Covered:

  • The power of authenticity and founder-led storytelling in marketing
  • Why PR and influencer marketing can be cost-effective growth levers for SMEs
  • How AI can enhance marketing processes—but only with careful human direction
  • The importance of breaking big goals into manageable actions and tracking progress

One standout message from this episode?
"Small businesses have something corporates often lack—authenticity and real stories. That’s their superpower."

Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts.

For now, continue listening for the full story from Guy.

 

Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for.

If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here:

https://bizsmarts.co.uk/scaleupradio/kevin

You can get in touch with Kevin here:

kevin@biz-smart.co.uk

 

Kevin's Latest Book Is Available!

Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, Kevin Brent explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up.

More on the Book HERE - https://www.esusgroup.co.uk/

 

Guy can be found here:

guy@localheroes.marketing

 

Resources:

100 Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez -https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/one-hundred-years-of-solitude-gabriel-garcia-marquez/200038?ean=9780241968581

Xero - xero.com

 

Episode #496 - Putting People First in HR - with Claire Loftus

Episode #496 - Putting People First in HR - with Claire Loftus

In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, Kevin Brent is joined by Claire Loftus, the dynamic founder of Evolve, a people-first HR consultancy operating across Northern Ireland, Great Britain, and the Republic of Ireland.

Claire shares her journey from working in HR and navigating personal health challenges to founding Evolve in 2017. With a team of nine working remotely, Evolve offers flexible, pragmatic HR support tailored to a diverse range of clients – from startups to large corporates – across multiple jurisdictions.

🔍 Episode Highlights:

  • The Evolve Ethos: A refreshingly human approach to HR that blends practical solutions with strong relationship-building.
  • Unique Model: Evolve offers accessible, flexible retainers starting from just £100/month, as well as ad-hoc support and investigations.
  • Entrepreneurial Roots: Claire draws inspiration from a family of entrepreneurs and shares how pregnancy just six months in and the COVID-19 pandemic shaped the business’s early growth.
  • Facing HR Head-On: From managing employee disputes to leveraging personality profiling like DISC, Claire gives honest insight into common HR pitfalls – and how to avoid them.
  • Growth & Self-Awareness: A recent ADHD diagnosis has shifted Claire’s perspective on leadership, leading to greater self-awareness and a stronger emphasis on autonomy for her team.
  • Looking Ahead: Evolve is eyeing growth to a 20-person team, preparing for economic shifts, embracing AI cautiously, and exploring a five-year exit plan.

Make sure you don’t miss any future episodes by subscribing to ScaleUp Radio wherever you like to listen to your podcasts.

For now, continue listening for the full story from Claire.

 

Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business. ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for.

If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, please click here:

https://bizsmarts.co.uk/scaleupradio/kevin

You can get in touch with Kevin here:

kevin@biz-smart.co.uk

Kevin's Latest Book Is Available!

Drawing on BizSmart’s own research and experiences of working with hundreds of owner-managers, Kevin Brent explores the key reasons why most organisations do not scale and how the challenges change as they reach different milestones on the ScaleUp Journey. He then details a practical step by step guide to successfully navigate between the milestones in the form of ESUS - a proven system for entrepreneurs to scale up.

More on the Book HERE - https://www.esusgroup.co.uk/

 

Claire can be found here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/claireloftus/

https://go-evolve.co.uk/

https://go-evolve.co.uk/contact/

 

Resources:

Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/rebel-ideas-the-power-of-thinking-differently-matthew-syed/4848192?ean=9781529348408

Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/outwitting-the-devil-with-study-guide-original-1938-classic-napoleon-hill/7758595?ean=9781722507213

Breathe - https://www.breathehr.com/en-gb/hr-software/hr-management-app

Remarkable - https://remarkable.com/

Bio of ScaleUp Radio

ScaleUp Radio, produced by MonkeyPants Productions, is a business podcast dedicated to helping entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of scaling up their businesses. Hosted by Kevin Brent, the podcast features guests who have successfully scaled their own businesses and can provide valuable insights and advice on various aspects of business growth.

With a focus on helping listeners overcome the obstacles that often hinder scaling efforts, ScaleUp Radio draws on BizSmart's extensive research and experience working with numerous owner-managers. 

Kevin Brent explores the common reasons why many organizations struggle to scale and discusses how the challenges evolve as businesses reach different milestones on their ScaleUp Journey.

Kevin introduces ESUS, a proven system designed to help entrepreneurs scale up effectively. By following the ESUS framework, entrepreneurs can overcome the hurdles they face at each stage of their business's growth and achieve sustainable and profitable scaling.

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