Business Brain Food

Mike Michalowicz really tells it how it is when it comes to business, so listen up! He’s written four excellent books and has presided over three multi-million dollar companies.

His journey is an interesting one. He admits to thinking he knew it all after his first successful business, and this caused him to waste his money on angel investment and egotistical purchases like fast cars. When bankruptcy loomed he started to write a diary, and it was this that formed the basis of his first book. The rest, as they say, is history! Read on for some of Mike’s top tips:

** We don’t need money to make a business. A lack of money helps spark ingenuity.

** Beware of conventional business plans driven by number forecasts. Mike recommends a tacking strategy akin to sailing, where you zig-zag in 90-day time periods in order to reach an end goal.

** Specialisation is the key. As tempting as it is to diversify, almost none of the most successful companies started that way. It was only when they had a big market presence that they broadened their range, i.e. Microsoft.

** Fewer variables in your business means fewer errors.

** Put your profit into a separate profit account so you can properly keep track of it.

** Identify the market you’re serving and watch their behaviour… what is the market missing that they really need?

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The sales minus expenses myth

** How to major on profit from the beginning

** How to ‘pay yourself first’

** The basics of the ‘profit first’ system

** The danger of familiarity

** The benefits of outsourcing part-time work

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Mike’s books on Amazon

** Mike’s website: http://www.mikemotorbike.com

** Ben’s free business marketing plan: http://www.maxmyprofit.com.au or email ben@maxmyprofit.com.au

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

If you only take one piece of wisdom from Mike, it has to be this: “It’s not what you make, it’s what you take”. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000


Gary Douglas is a different kind of guy. In his words “the more weird I got, the more popular I became”. Gary invented the Access Consciousness program which you may have heard us discuss last week with Dain Heer.

Gary has become a bestselling author and actually runs 12 different businesses across the world, and it would appear he practices what he preaches in order to keep it all going. Gary was full of thought-provoking one-liners, so keep reading for some of the best:

** Change is caused by the choices people make

** The moment you decide something is not going to work then it’s not going to work

** The willingness to be different always, will always keep the door open for a greater possibility and success

** Ask yourself: what choice did I have today that I didn’t have yesterday?

** Ask yourself: what else is possible, what else is possible, what else is possible?

** Ask yourself: What can I be or do different today?

** Questions create, conclusions destroy

** Micro-management is the thing that kills your business

** Understand when things own you

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The power of choice

** How to create the right mindset to manage 12 different businesses

** How to be ‘in the question’

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Go to Gary’s Access Consciousness website: http://www.accessconsciousness.com

** Ben’s free business template: http://www.maxmyprofit.com.au or email ben@maxmyprofit.com.au

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

  Ask yourself the ultimate Gary question… “what can I be or do today to make money right away?” Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF117_Empowering_people_to_see_different_possibilities_with_Gary_Douglas.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We really get into the depths of your mind this week with Dr Dain Heer; a man who has made a living out of inspiring people to fulfill their potential. Originally a chiropractor, Dr Heer was inspired to change his career and practice “Access Consciousness” after it turned around his own life.

Since then he has released 9 books and has developed an Access Consciousness business that has a presence in 143 different countries. As well as explaining some of the key tools from Access Consciousness, Dr Heer gave a lot of memorable insight. Read some of the best quotes below:

** Judgment is one of the biggest killers there is - we have a world full of people who have been taught to judge everything and never ask questions”

** “If you get to a place in your own world where you like you as you are, then people’s judgments are far less relevant”

** “Ask yourself these life questions: How does it get any better than this? What else is possible? What’s it going to take to change this? What’s right about me that I’m not getting? What resources can I locate right now that will help me create this change?”

** “Someone trying to make you wrong for doing something different doesn’t get it”

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The basic tools from Access Consciousness

** Where humanity is falling short

** The importance of upbringing

** The judgment paradigm

** How to handle doubters

** How to become more grateful

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Dr Heer’s website: http://www.drdainheer.com (see dates for Dr Dain’s next classes in Australia + free learning resources)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

  Take Dr Heer’s advice and make the effort to unlock your potential. Don’t listen to the doubters! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF116_Empowering_people_to_know_what_they_know_with_Dr_Dain_Heer.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We’re delighted to welcome Tom Breeze back on the show – a top YouTube advertising guru. Tom has his own agency over in the UK, and many years of experience in playing the system of video advertising.

Many people waste money on YouTube advertising because they haven’t thought properly about the different audiences that will be viewing their adverts. As Tom explains, it is possible to define the different sections of a YouTube audience, i.e. people who are on YouTube with the specific intent to buy V people who are on there to simply research. Read on for some of Tom’s top tips:

** Almost half of all YouTube users are on there because they either want to buy something or learn about something. YouTube is about so much more than cat videos!

** Because people are using search terms it is easy to know what they’re looking for. YouTube provides you with an audience of qualified leads.

** You can be as specific as identifying the exact video you want an advert to appear on.

** If you had a shop in ‘real life’, think about the different types of people who might be interested in your product, i.e. window shoppers, browsers, and buyers who only need to be given assurance about which product is best for them. Understand how to reach their equivalents on YouTube and tailor your advert accordingly.

** Find out what common interests your potential customers share. What kind of videos will your average customer be watching?

** Don’t forget re-marketing. It is possible to track customers who have already been on your site and target them when they visit YouTube.

** It’s very easy for people to skip ads on YouTube, but if you use the True View type of ad, you don’t have to pay when this happens.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** What makes a ‘good’ YouTube ad

** How to tailor ads for different types of potential customer

** How to target people based on their search habits

** How to get in front of customers

** When to use opt-ins

** Re-marketing

** How to choose the right agency

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Go to Tom’s website http://www.viewability.co.uk and take the “is video advertising for you?” quiz. There is also a lot of video advertising training.

** Ben’s free business template: http://www.maxmyprofit.com.au or email ben@maxmyprofit.com.au

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

  As Tom says, “YouTube advertising is not rocket science” so you’d be well advised to take the time to learn how it works, or if you don’t have the time, get an agency to do it. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF115_How_to_Master_YouTube_Ad_Targeting_with_Tom_Breeze.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We had an interesting and profound discussion with Damion on this week’s BBF. Incredibly, he’s had over 30 different businesses, but the key message from this is not how he succeeded in business, but more how he succeeded in his life outside of it. The big moment for Damion came when he over extended himself as a real estate investor, and within one year went from a net worth of $5m to a debt of $2m. This set him on a path of self-discovery, and made him understand that the validation he was seeking with fast cars and wealth was a corrosive cycle.

Damion has already written five books on the matter, and kindly shared some of his top tips below:

** Disconnect your self worth with your net worth.

** Make sure you really know who you are. If you don’t know this then there is a chance you’ll be seeking validation via superficial things.

** To truly reinvent your life, start from the inside rather than the outside.

** Don’t believe in the current financial and state systems. Embrace the technology that empowers us to do our own thing.

** Work to live, don’t live to work. Avoid that owner’s trap!

** Never stop listening to people. Surround yourself with people you believe in and trust. They may not give you the right answers, but they may help lead you towards them.

** Do not under-estimate the importance of an exit strategy.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The process of reinventing life

** Internal validation

** The time V money equation

** How to fight insecurity

** The importance of purpose for any entrepreneur

** How playing safe can in fact be dangerous

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Damion’s website: http://www.totalcontrolfinancial.com

** Ben’s free business template: http://www.maxmyprofit.com.au or email ben@maxmyprofit.com.au

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

Remember: even though this is a business podcast, your life and wellbeing is always more important. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF114_Is_it_time_to_reinvent_your_life_with_Damion_Lupo.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We have some character on the show today. A man by the name of Travis Bell who travels the world inspiring people to create and achieve their personal bucket lists. Originally a personal trainer, Travis was actually a student of Action Coach himself. One day he sat down with his coach and said “I want to be the first guy to franchise personal training across Australia”, which is exactly what he did; opening up 21 outlets along the way.

The confrontational nature of franchising didn’t suit him and he suffered from depression, so he thought long and hard about a change of direction. A number of people began asking him for life training rather than personal training, which set him on a new path. He then made the extraordinary decision to give away his whole business to the franchisees and become a motivational speaker and life coach. He gave his first seminar which in his words was ‘crap’, but during the seminar asked the question, “does anyone keep a list of things they want to do before they die?”. Nobody did, but the whole room was suddenly inspired to talk and to share stories. It was then that Travis’ calling as “The Bucket List Guy” came to be. He came out with so much gold during the show that there really is no need to paraphrase him. Just read the list below for some of the corkers he shared with Ben:

** “People are dying at 40 and being buried at 80”

** “The bucket list is the you that you don’t even know yet”

** “A bucket list is a tangible life plan - our business plan needs to fit into our career plan and not the other way around”

** “Why do we wait until it’s too late to get off our arse?” (i.e. people making bucket lists once they’re diagnosed with terminal illness)

** “Optimise your business so you can do stuff on your bucket list”

** “Only worry about the tsunami when it’s coming up your drive”

In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The M.Y.B.U.C.K.E.T.L.I.S.T formula

** How Travis learnt to become grateful

** How methods of schooling shape behaviour

** The definition of ‘sheeple’

** How human beings fear being different

** How often to revisit your bucket list

Resources mentioned in this episode:

** The M.Y.B.U.C.K.E.T.L.I.S.T formula explained in a free ebook: http://www.thebucketlistguy.com/ebook/

** Travis’ website: http://www.thebucketlistguy.com

** Book recommendations:

Feel The Fear And Do It Anyway - Susan Jeffers

The E Myth: Why Most Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It - Michael E. Gerber

The Magic Of Thinking Big - David J Schwartz

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

If you’re not inspired by this conversation then you will never be inspired by anything! Listen to what he says and take some action! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000


Dale Beaumont is one heck of a character, and this week he is sharing with us a snapshot of the corporate future: his artificial intelligence app that will give portable business training to millions of people. Dale has already written 16 bestselling books, so he really knows his stuff.

As well as giving us a whistle-stop tour of his revolutionary app, BRiN, Dale gave some excellent advice about how businesses can embrace technology of this nature in this day and age. Read the highlights below:

** BRiN is for all the people in the world who don’t have access to business training events. Phase one is complete, with a library containing over 500 hours of content. Dale estimates that only 1% of the world population has access to the kind of events/training that we might take for granted.

** Dale recommends this basic tech toolkit for any modern-day business: A good CRM, accounting in the cloud, the implementation of project management software, an understanding of how technology can enable outsourcing, active social media, a podcast, a mechanism to collect leads from your blog, and a coherent content marketing strategy that takes in all of the above.

** As important as being up-to-date is, always make sure that you upgrade technology in order to solve a problem that your customers have. The worst mistake is to build something that nobody has asked for.

** Remember that if you successfully implement a system that solves a problem for your company then you might well be able to scale this up and sell it to other competitors in your market who have the same problem. Or even to another industry with the same problem.

** You don’t need to be an expert in the technical detail – no CEO needs to be a coder or programmer – but a broad knowledge of the basics is worth its weight in gold. It’s worth taking the time out to do a little bit of training.

** If something works 95% of the time, then people actually prefer dealing with a machine than a human being. Always remember that if you get a system right, your customers and staff will trust you more.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The inner workings of BRiN

** How reliant people are on artificial intelligence

** The reach of business training worldwide

** The importance of the human voice in modern-day technology

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Show sponsors: Bodyworx physio, onsite workplace safety experts. To book a free onsite workplace assessment, call 02 4952 7033 or visit http://www.bodyworxphysio.com

** Dan’s app website: http://www.brin.ai

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

This from Dale really sums up why it’s important to listen up and embrace the technology: “One day, every company will be a technology company in some way, shape or form. Every business can benefit from having technology. If you don’t embrace this new world that we live in then you will be left behind by tech-savvy operators”. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000


This week’s guest Steve Brossman is known as an authority catalyst – he makes it his business to empower people to sell their knowledge services in a crowded market, but everything he said is applicable to any business owner or salesperson.

He’s written a book called Stand Up Stand Out, and once created a plastic ashtray shaped as a bum which sold over four million units worldwide. Steve has many great examples of how tweaking a marketing message in a certain way can massively improve business. Read on for some of Steve’s top tips:

** Have an outcome-based title for your business.

** Get away from selling yourself and your service – sell a blueprint for your clients.

** Your introductions should intrigue rather than inform – it’s about inducing the question from your audience of “how do you do that?”

** Package your service offering in a sentence with words that you wouldn’t normally put together.

** Don’t over-emphasise price in your message.

** Sell for the next step – don’t get bogged down in the whole process.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The changing business coaching market

** How to stand out in a crowded field

** The authority accelerator blueprint

** The difference between positioning and marketing

** The difference between wants and needs

** The logic/emotion buying equation

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Show sponsors: http://www.turkishmurkish.com use the code ‘Action’ to receive 15% off your first order.

** Steve’s website: http://www.stevebrossman.com

** Email Steve: steve@stevebrossman.com

** Free 90-minute business assessment with Ben: Call 1-300-303-569 or visit http://www.businessassessment.com.au

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

Listen to Steve if you want to stand out from the crowd. There is so much that can be done to tweak your message. Do this before you change your pricing. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000


It really is vital that companies today embrace the many benefits of being on the cloud. The days of the dusty server room should be long gone, and yet many companies are still holding off taking the plunge.

This week’s guest will tell you all you need to know if you’re thinking about making the transition. Frank Debenedetto is a highly experienced operator in the field, having helped companies migrate their server space over the course of two decades. He knows firsthand just how exposed a company’s on-site systems can be, having worked with clients in his native New Jersey who lost absolutely everything as a result of an earthquake. Keep reading for a summary of what Frank covered with Ben:

** Cloud services allow for a pay-as-you-go model of payment, rather than large capital expenditure. This enables companies to access newer technology more quickly than in the past, because the size of the outlay is not as great.

** Approximately 75% of businesses are still reliant on onsite services – this really needs to change. The cost of properly securing services onsite far outweighs the costs of security on the cloud, and backup is also far easier on the cloud.

** “Software as a service” has pretty much revolutionized the way most companies do business. If you’re still installing things on individual machines using a disc, you’re probably stuck in the dark ages!

** You’re never too small for the cloud. It can help even the smallest of companies, and can be easily scaled up as you grow.

** Take your backups seriously. If you move to the cloud, make sure that you know exactly what backup facilities are offered by your provider.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The advantages of the cloud

** The ins and outs of cyber security

** Email encryption

** Mobile device management

** Two-factor authentication

** Ransomware

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Free business assessment with Ben: http://www.businessassessment.com.au

** Frank’s company website: http://www.tworivertech.com

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

Get with the program and get on the cloud! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000


You may have slaved over your business plan and every aspect of your day-to-day, but have you properly considered how exposed you might be to copyright violation? This can work both ways. Maybe your web-builder built your site using illegal images, or maybe somebody else ripped off your content. With either scenario, the consequences can be extremely costly, so that’s why we’ve invited Lin Eleoff onto this week’s show.

Lin’s background is an interesting one, having originally started out as a lawyer who then became a full-time life coach. She now uses her legal background to advise businesses about how to cover themselves, and has multiple companies across life coaching and legal services. Lin kindly shared a lot of valuable advice, so see below for the highlights:

** The first company to register a company name has the right to keep it.

** Be careful of the term ‘royalty free’. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you can use the image for free – it just means that the price of an image doesn’t increase if it is used multiple times.

** If you receive a letter pursuing you for copyright infringement, check the detail of it to make sure it isn’t a scam, i.e. find proof that the person pursuing you is indeed the legal owner of the asset they are pursuing you about.

** If your own company website is infringing copyright laws but you didn’t know about it, you – as the business owner – are still responsible. Always double-check the work of your site builders/content managers.

** Registering a trademark doesn’t automatically mean that you can forget about the issue. It’s still up to you to find instances of infringement and then pursue the offenders.

** Before you pay for legal action against a website that is wrongly using your assets, contact the site’s hosting ISP and ask them to take it down.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The definition of ‘Royalty Free’

** Zero creative commons licenses explained

** The consequences of copying and pasting content

** DMCA takedown notices

** The difference between TM and (R)

** How to react when there is a case against you

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Ben’s photography website: http://www.onthreelegs.com

** Ben’s recommended stock photo library: https://graphicriver.net/

** Lin’s Gutsy Glorious Life-coaching Radio: link here

** Lin’s DIY Legal Toolkit: http://www.diylegaltoolkit.com

** Lin’s person site: http://www.coveryourassetsonline.com

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

According to Lin, if you use the DIY Legal Toolkit, you can achieve nearly all of the cover you need without having to pay for legal advice. Don’t delay – get your house in order! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF109_Cover_Your_ASSets_Online_with_Lin_Eleoff.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Back by very popular demand we have Siimon Reynolds for his third stint on the BBF podcast. Siimon will be talking to us about all things marketing, and there really is no one better qualified for the task.

Siimon is still famous for being the brains behind the legendary “Grim Reaper” anti-AIDS campaign in Australia in 1987. From there he cofounded the Photon Group, which grew into a global empire containing 6,000 employees in 52 different locations across 14 different countries. Siimon then left the Photon Group and set up the Fortune Institute which is dedicated to helping SMEs fulfill their potential. See below for some of the great marketing advice that Siimon gave, and a snapshot of the subjects he covered with Ben during the show:

** Sometimes market leaders are not the companies with the best product – they are the companies with the best marketing.

** Anyone can learn marketing, but it is such a long process to become an expert that it basically isn’t worth it for most people. The best thing is to learn the basics with a view to using that knowledge to effectively manage an external marketing expert.

** Before any marketing campaign, it’s a good idea to work in the following order: 1. Think about your target audience. 2. Tailor the message. 3. Define how to deliver the message.

** Remember that it’s a lot easier to get customers who have already said ‘yes’ to you to say ‘yes’ again, than it is to attract new customers.

** If you aren’t sure an advert is working then it probably isn’t – it’s time to stop. But don’t stop an advert and reject the medium of advertising. It’s more likely to be your ad rather than the medium that is the problem.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** What makes an effective marketing campaign

** How Dominoes revolutionized their entire marketplace with a simple marketing ploy

** The power of surveys

** Digital marketing target methods

** The importance of message V audience

** Split testing

** How long you should spend on social media

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Ben’s free business plan template: http://www.maxmyprofit.com.au

** Siimon’s own site: http://www.siimonreynolds.com

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

Siimon is a shining example of what can be achieved with good marketing. If you follow his simple strategies you will give your business every chance to flourish. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF108_How_to_create_an_effective_marketing_campaign_with_Siimon_Reynolds.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

This week’s guest has certainly lived a bit, and what a privilege it was to hear his sharp philosophical insight into the importance of ‘why’ in business. Peter Docker has been all over the world as a pilot for the RAF (he even used to fly the UK prime minister Margaret Thatcher), not to mention work as a crisis manager and an international negotiator for the UK government.

All of this experience has helped him become a highly respected motivational speaker, and as you’ll hear from his discussion with Ben, he’s an absolute master at helping people understand the ‘why’ in business. Read on for some of the highlights of the discussion:

** If you have any aspiration of being a successful business in the long term, you have to know your ‘why’. When you get this clear, it’s amazing how much easier it is for people to connect with your business.

** When we make decisions that just ‘feel right’, the chances are is that we’re feeling the ‘why’.

** A ‘why’ should be strong enough to compel your customers to put it into their own words.

** A ‘why’ doesn’t have to be big and grand – it just has to be authentic. This is how you build trust and loyalty.

** Your ‘why’ shouldn’t just come out of thin air. It should be a culmination of your past and what drives you.

** A ‘why’ is vital to get you through tough times. Without it, where is the incentive to get out of bed and solve problems?

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** Which part of the brain processes the ‘why’.

** What a ‘why discovery’ can do.

** The difference between ‘visions’ and ‘missions’.

** Where ‘how’ comes into it.

** How to come up with your ‘why’.

** How physical symbols and statements can help reinforce your ‘why’.

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Free, complimentary business assessment from Ben: http://www.businessassessment.com.au

** Elon Musk’s launch of model 3 of the Tesla, discussing his ‘why’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HOhOeKwe30

** Simon Sinek’s ‘Why’ programme: com

** Peter & Simon’s 2017 tour of Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland: Book here

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

It’s all very well concentrating on the detail of your everyday business, but if you don’t understand why you’re doing business in the first place, you’ve got almost no chance of success. Listen to Peter! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF107_Harness_the_Power_of_Why_with_Peter_Docker.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

You may remember Johnnie Cass from way-back-when on Big Brother One. Nowadays Johnnie travels around the globe as a motivational speaker, helping people understand human potential. He is also a successful entrepreneur himself, having successfully brought his own underwear brand to market.

Johnnie faced some major battles after his flirtation with reality TV. It was impossible for him to resume the same life he had before, and the paths he chose afterwards didn’t always work out well. He knows firsthand how it feels to be demotivated and disengaged, but he also knows what to do to come out the other side. Read on for some of the top tips he shared with Ben:

** It doesn’t matter what other people think – the only opinion that matters is what you think about yourself.

** Look at problems as opportunities to challenge yourself.

** Do something every day that is a good habit, i.e. learning for a set amount of time.

** Don’t assume that social media is an accurate representation of the world around you. It’s all too easy to compare your bad day with someone else’s good day.

** Express your vulnerability. It’s better out than in.

** Take lessons from the past, but not regrets.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The benefits of “be” rather than “do”

** How men can properly address depression

** The power of vulnerability

** How to work around setbacks from the past

** The difference between empathy and sympathy

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Johnnie’s facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/johnniecass

** Letting Go by David Hawkins: Amazon buy link

** Daring Greatly by Brene Brown: Amazon buy link

** Ben’s programmes that start from as little as 10 AUD per day: http://www.businessassessment.com.au

** The SMEA has teamed up with Action Coach to deliver over 50 free business coaching workshops across Australia. Go to http:smallbizsept.com.au and find your nearest workshop. And as an extra bonus, any attendee of the workshop will get free membership to the SMEA for a year worth 400 AUD.

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

If you don’t look after your own mind, you won’t ever excel. Think about how you are viewing life… is it conducive to success? Get this right and you’ll give yourself every chance of succeeding in business. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF106_Empowering_people_and_achieving_excellence_with_Johnnie_Cass.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We’ve changed it up a bit this week. Instead of the usual format of Ben talking to a guest, we’ve got almost an hour of Ben talking to you. This business advice is invaluable – it’s the same advice that businesses up and down the land have paid good money for, but today it is absolutely free.

This week Ben focuses on his 5-step business growth system. For the full info you’ll have to listen to the podcast, but you can have a sneak preview of this tried-and-tested system below:

  1. Time Management: People like to be busy, but that could easily mean you’re disorganised. A good business owner has time to stop and reflect.
  2. Why did you start the business? Not enough people ask themselves this. You need this as a clear objective, then you can build everything else around it.
  3. Understand your money: See your P & L as a working document full of management information, not just something that you need to do for the taxman. Design your accounts in a way that suits you, not the accountant. You should be able to easily make decisions off the back of the figures, week-to-week, month-to-month. If you can’t, then there’s something wrong.
  4. KPIs are king: For every single role in your business you need to clearly define what the measurements are of success and failure.
  5. Make sure your business can do what you say it can: Achieve that consistency! As a manager you need to take as much human error out of the equation as possible. Only with foolproof processes can your business achieve the consistency it needs to ensure customers keep coming back.

In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The key foundations of good business

** The importance of a marketing plan

** How technology can shape your future

** The power of lead-generation strategies

** Return customers V new customers

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Ben’s programmes that start from as little as 10 AUD per day: http://www.businessassessment.com.au

** The SMEA has teamed up with Action Coach to deliver over 50 free business coaching workshops across Australia. Go to http:www.smallbizsept.com.au and find your nearest workshop. And as an extra bonus, any attendee of the workshop will get free membership to the SMEA for a year worth 400 AUD.

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

“Take a day each week to work on the future of your business, otherwise all you will ever have is a job,” says Ben. By reading this and listening to the podcast, you’re taking a step in the right direction. Make sure you keep up the good work! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000


We’ve changed it up a bit this week. Instead of the usual format of Ben talking to a guest, we’ve got almost an hour of Ben talking to you. This business advice is invaluable – it’s the same advice that businesses up and down the land have paid good money for, but today it is absolutely free.

This week Ben focuses on his 5-step business growth system. For the full info you’ll have to listen to the podcast, but you can have a sneak preview of this tried-and-tested system below:

  1. Time Management: People like to be busy, but that could easily mean you’re disorganised. A good business owner has time to stop and reflect.
  2. Why did you start the business? Not enough people ask themselves this. You need this as a clear objective, then you can build everything else around it.
  3. Understand your money: See your P & L as a working document full of management information, not just something that you need to do for the taxman. Design your accounts in a way that suits you, not the accountant. You should be able to easily make decisions off the back of the figures, week-to-week, month-to-month. If you can’t, then there’s something wrong.
  4. KPIs are king: For every single role in your business you need to clearly define what the measurements are of success and failure.
  5. Make sure your business can do what you say it can: Achieve that consistency! As a manager you need to take as much human error out of the equation as possible. Only with foolproof processes can your business achieve the consistency it needs to ensure customers keep coming back.

In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The key foundations of good business

** The importance of a marketing plan

** How technology can shape your future

** The power of lead-generation strategies

** Return customers V new customers

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Ben’s programmes that start from as little as 10 AUD per day: http://www.businessassessment.com.au

** The SMEA has teamed up with Action Coach to deliver over 50 free business coaching workshops across Australia. Go to http:www.smallbizsept.com.au and find your nearest workshop. And as an extra bonus, any attendee of the workshop will get free membership to the SMEA for a year worth 400 AUD.

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

“Take a day each week to work on the future of your business, otherwise all you will ever have is a job,” says Ben. By reading this and listening to the podcast, you’re taking a step in the right direction. Make sure you keep up the good work! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF104_How_A_Fed_Up_Lawyer_Becomes_A_Big_Banana.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

There’s a good chance you’ve already had some advice from our guest this week… it’s just you didn’t know it. Karen Jacobsen is the famous voice of Apple’s SIRI app as well as the voice of 400 million Sat Nav devices around the world, but here she is today, live and fully dangerous!

As well as her massive success as a voiceover artist, Karen has written a self-help book called “It’s Never Too Late To Recalculate” which uses the instructions on a Sat Nav as a metaphor for how people can change direction in their own life. We had a very interesting chat with Karen – she’s certainly had one heck of a life. Karen was kind enough to share with us some top tips from her book as well as some other advice on how to stay well and live a happy life:

** Notice when you’re “off route”. If you’re not honest enough with yourself to acknowledge that there is something fundamentally wrong, it is impossible to change direction.

** Get clear about what you love to spend your time doing. Have that conversation with yourself and focus your everyday life towards doing it.

** At the end of the year, do a “stock take” of your life, i.e. what you accomplished, what you wished you accomplished and what the disappointments were. Then create a list of what you want to do in the subsequent year. Then display this list in a prominent position at home so it can serve as a reminder and keep you focused on the right stuff.

** Try and be around likeminded people who are getting somewhere in life. Being part of some kind of mastermind group can be a great help.

** Don’t wait until you hit rock bottom before making changes. It’s easier to make small changes as you go than to take extreme action in a crisis.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The 5 steps to recalculate formula

** How to listen to your inner GPS

** How to hear yourself think

** The benefits of meditation

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** The SMEA has teamed up with Action Coach to deliver over 50 free business coaching workshops across Australia. Go to http:smallbizsept.com.au and find your nearest workshop. And as an extra bonus, any attendee of the workshop will get free membership to the SMEA for a year worth 400 AUD.

** Karen’s website: http://www.thegpsgirl.com

** Karen’s twitter: https://twitter.com/thegpsgirl

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

“It’s never too late to recalculate” says Karen, so if you feel like you’re just going through the motions in your business, follow Karen’s lead and change direction. The unknown is normally less scary than you think. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF103_Listening_to_your_inner_GPS_with_Karen_Jacobsen.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Many people see customer service as something separate from marketing, but just think about it for a second: what better way is there to market your business than to give your customers such good customer service they spread the word about your company?

After many decades as a public speaker and customer service guru, Martin Grunstein has seen all-too-often how much companies neglect customer service. Time and again they will pay big money for advertising, but when it comes to follow-up calls to customers, they will say they don’t have the time or the money. Luckily, Martin has shared some very simple methods that we can all follow in order to nail our customer service. See below for a quick snapshot:

** When advertising, don’t be too obsessed with price. Talk about your point of difference, especially if that is your service.

** Don’t get into arguments with customers on social media. You need to show you’re responsive to customer complaints but it’s wise to take any debate offline. How about offering to take them for coffee?

** A recent survey found that 14% of people would stop dealing with a business on grounds of price, but 68% would on grounds of customer service.

** Ongoing communication with clients is absolutely key to understanding the quality of your customer service. Follow-up calls are absolutely paramount.

** Understand that you might have to apologise to customers even when they are in the wrong. Sometimes you are dealing with perceptions rather than reality.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The laws of customer service and behaviour

** How customer service can drive ROI

** Customer service trends over the last 30 years

** How easy it is to shine compared to your competitors

** The relative merits of qualitative V quantitative research

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Exclusive offer from this week’s show sponsors BarterCard. Click this link for free advertising and 5,000 line of credit for free: http://bartercard.com.au/actioncoach

** Martin’s website: http://www.martingrunstein.com.au

** The SMEA has teamed up with Action Coach to deliver over 50 free business coaching workshops across Australia. Go to http:smallbizsept.com.au and find your nearest workshop. And as an extra bonus, any attendee of the workshop will get free membership to the SMEA for a year worth 400 AUD.

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

  As Martin says “inertia and stupidity are the greatest enemies to business”, so don’t be complacent about your customer service. Listen to the experts and do you best for your customers today! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000


This week we had the pleasure of speaking to James MacGregor, a man who’s been there, seen it and done it in the world of tech startups who is behind the brilliant online video-marketing tool biteable.com.

Having worked for web startups and software companies for over ten years he decided it was time to create something himself, and with a bit of help from his brother who had been working on films with Peter Jackson, biteable.com was born. From a thousand users in year one, biteable now has over half a million users worldwide. We don’t need James to tell us that video marketing is on the up – we’ve had plenty of guests confirm this in recent times – but we can all benefit from James’ tips on video marketing:

** Most people access the web on their mobile now, so consider the small screen and potentially small attention span when producing your videos.

** Try and avoid making videos that are more than two minutes in length.

** Make the video look professional. Although we are in an era when it is easier to get away with making video that doesn’t have a high production cost, make sure you get the basics right. There should never be a shaky camera, for example.

** Don’t be scared of being blunt and controversial. There is no one else censoring it so you should use your creative license as best you can.

** Video marketing is a numbers game. Your content is more likely to go viral if you do more of it. It’s better to make five short videos then agonizing over one long one.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** How much you should plan content

** The power of templates

** What can be done in 10 minutes

** How important video is to the overall marketing mix

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** James’ video website: http://www.biteable.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

  It’s quite simple: if you don’t do video marketing then you will lose business, but the good news is it’s easier than ever to create quality video content. Understanding the inner workings of James’ website is a great starting point. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF101_Producing_Animated_Videos_Online_In_Minutes_with_James_McGregor.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Whoo hoo, we’ve reached 100 not out! Thanks to every single one of you for supporting the show. Bring on the next hundred! For our centenary episode we really wanted to do something special, so we’ve pulled out all the stops to get Brad Sugars on the show, the man behind our whole operation, ActionCOACH. Brad is a multi-millionaire with businesses all over the globe in a variety of different sectors, but he is best known for his business coaching. Seen as that is what we’re all about, we thought we’d pick his brains and get inside his head. Despite his success, does he still practice what he preaches? You bet he does. He told us that ever day of his business life he is constantly speaking to his mentors and coaches. Yes, a multi-millionaire business owner still needs business coaching, even one who has made his fortune as a business coach! The over-riding theme with Brad is one of inclusiveness – that business is something that you can’t crack alone. That’s why we’re here today folks, so keep reading for some more Business Brainfood tips courtesy of Brad:

** If there is one key to Brad’s success it is finding the right people to help run his businesses.

** How do you find the right people? In short, make sure you’re very clear on the type of person you’re looking to hire, what their job actually is, and how their success can be measured.

** Marketing should not just be reserved for potential customers. You should market strongly towards your potential employees. Making videos that are sharable on social media is a good start.

** Do multiple interviews with candidates, i.e. group, formal one-on-one, informal over lunch.

** Plan the next day! As obvious as that sounds, just consider for a moment how much more productive man people are the day before they go on holiday, because they focus intently on what needs to be done.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The definition of an entrepreneur

** How to learn on the job in business

** The importance of rituals

** The importance of brand building

** The benefits of ‘lumpy mail’

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Brad’s website: http://www.bradsugars.com

** Brad’s facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BradleySugars/

** Brad’s twitter: https://twitter.com/bradsugars

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

  One great quote from Brad for the road: “Everyone has a level of entrepreneurial flare; the question is, do you act on it?” Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF100_Secrets_of_Building_Serious_Wealth_with_Brad_Sugars.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We spend a lot of time and money on perfecting our brand and message, but do we really understand the minds of our audience? Bri Williams told us a few home truths this week about just how much businesses are missing out on because of a lack of understanding of behavioural economics.

Bri has broken it down into a simple three-part process that anyone can apply across pretty much any area of their business. She has written a critically acclaimed book on the matter, but she was kind enough to share the simple outline of her system with us, as well as some of the following tips:

** Understand how environment can shape somebody’s behaviour. The decisions they make are often swayed by superficial things in the environment, irrespective of the ‘logic’ you may have outlined with your product/service.

** To make behavioural economics work for you, you need to think beyond the end goal of what you want your audience to do. The key is understanding how they can get from the point of not taking action to the end point of taking action.

** When someone’s potential effort is greater than their potential reward, they won’t take action.

** Make your calls to action stand out from the rest of your design. Slick design should not be prioritised over the prominence of calls to action.

** Consider using testimonials higher up your website. To build trust from the beginning is fundamental to the decision your audience makes at the end.

** Understand the power of ‘tension’ in your marketing message. Positive tension, i.e. “only two tickets left” will encourage action.

In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The three central elements of behavioural economics

** The Say V Do gap

** “Button anxiety”

** How to create social proof

** The “now me” and “future me”

Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Bri’s website: http://www.briwilliams.com.au

** Bri’s book “Behavioural Economics For Business”: http://www.briwilliams.com.au/be-for-business

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

Bri summed it up perfectly: “if you’ve ever had a day where you’re bashing your head against a brick wall saying ‘I don’t get it, I don’t know why people don’t do what they say they do and I don’t know why my customers aren’t buying,’ then you need behavioural economics” Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000


Sharon Livingstone is a real psychological all-rounder. Her expertise stretches across hypnosis, life coaching, NLP and even as far as emotional marketing. There is a lot we can all learn from someone like Sharon. In every aspect of our lives, there is probably something we can improve with coaching.

Sharon has certainly been there and done it. She has been president of both the QRCA (the largest qualitative research group in the world) and the ICCA (an organisation dedicated to the training of coaches), has a PHD in psychology, and as if that wasn’t enough, she is also a bestselling author. Read on for some of the nuggets that came out of the conversation with Ben:

** “What else” is a more effective phrase for making an extra sale than “anything else?”

** It takes 30 repetitions for our brain to learn a new procedure.

** Your brain is most receptive to reprogramming when you are in a state of hypnosis, so it can be very beneficial to listen to educational audio before you go to bed.

** As a general life lesson, always think about your best possible outcomes in life, and constantly visualize the journey that will get you there.

** Life coaching can work for everyone! Don’t ever assume that you won’t need it.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The process of ‘laddering’

** How emotion features in marketing

** The basics of hypnosis

** The basics of life coaching

** The inner workings of the ‘Breakthrough To Success” workshop

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Jack Canfield’s inspirational book “Chicken Soup for the soul”: https://www.amazon.com/Chicken-Soup-Soul-20th-Anniversary/dp/161159913X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469010901&sr=8-1&keywords=chicken+soup+for+the+soul

** Jack Canfield’s book: “Success Principles: https://www.amazon.com/Success-Principles-TM-Anniversary-Where/dp/0062364286/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469011114&sr=8-1&keywords=jack+canfield+success+principles

** Contact Sharon by phone: +1 603 505 3000

** Sharon’s online coaching site: http://www.takethecoachingtest.com

** Sharon’s book: http://www.getlostgirlfriend.com/Book

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast… join the tribe and get exclusive offers at: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

  Remember that there are experts across all aspects of business and life that can help you. Sharon’s story proves just what can be made possible with the right coaching. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000


Ed Dale first used the internet in 1984, so he’s a great man to speak to about digital marketing strategy. Ed certainly isn’t your usual technology geek. He actually spent time as an AFL commentator and then used his technical knowledge to develop a stats collection system that is still used today by the top clubs and associations in the league. He then built up an internet marketing company that he sold for AUD3.5m, and for the last ten years he has developed and internet marketing programme called “The challenge” which has helped over 300,000 people across the world.

Here are some of Ed’s top tips:

** The biggest challenge in internet marketing today is generating traffic.

** Product creation has become easier.

** The biggest mistakes people make is to develop a product before they develop a market for it.

** All product makers should aspire to become a market influencer.

** Talk the language of your niche, and understand their pains.

** Think about testing your market by spending a small amount on Facebook advertising, before you jump in to a large-scale campaign.

** Most people are accessing the internet on mobiles, so don’t get stuck on producing campaigns for desktops.

** The way you speak to your friends now is a good trailing indicator of the most effective medium of advertising in the future.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** How to understand the pains of your market

** The value of advertising on YouTube

** How to be specific with Facebook advertising

** The difference in buying intent between Facebook users and google users

** Where email fits in the marketing mix

** The inner workings of “the challenge”

** The merits of using social media V personal email messages

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** This week’s show sponsor, Bartercard are offering free advertising for your business, and have a special offer of 5,000 AUD credit for BBF listeners. Visit: http://www.go.bartercard.com.au/actioncoach

** Free access to Ed’s marketing “Challenge”: http://www.challenge.co

** Ed’s personal site: http://www.eddale.co

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast… join the tribe and get exclusive offers at: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

  As Ed says, “there has never been a better time to create a business than now”, so as long as you listen to the right marketing advice, you stand a good chance of making a success of it. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF097_Building_A_Successful_Digital_Business_with_Ed_Dale.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Although Sue has made a career out of her own PR agency, she was kind enough to give us a whole load of tips about how you can get yourself great publicity without having to pay anyone else to do it. Sue spent her early career as a journalist, so she has a great understanding of what a business needs to do in order to persuade the media to cover their stories. What’s more, she managed to get her own business featured on the Australian TV show ‘A Current Affair’ which gave her 40,000 AUD of business within a week. Sue pulled this off long before she was a PR professional, so it is well worth listening to her story of how a small business became national news after just half-an-hour of work.

Sue’s top tips:

** Don’t worry about not being ‘ready’. Publicise your company as much as you can, wherever you are in your evolution.

** Identify what’s interesting to the media and lead with that in your PR efforts. This is not the same thing as just telling the media about what you do.

** Forget about gimmicks and freebies. Remember that most journalists value their integrity, so the best way to butter them up is by fully understanding what their audience wants to read, see or hear.

** When writing a press release, think of the problems that you solve for your customers, and emphasise this in your output.

** Journalists and their audience tend to be interested in what you know about, not necessarily what you do.

** Don’t be offended if the media isn’t interested in what you send them. In as polite and constructive a way as possible, try and find out why they weren’t interested. From that you may well be able to find a better angle.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** When to time the release

** How to get inside the heads of journalists

** How to set a release plan

** How to find the contacts

** The amount of contacts you need

** The merits of using social media V personal email messages

** How to write a press release

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Sue’s “How To” publicity seminars: http://www.publicityforprofit.com.au

** ActionCOACH Business Diplomas: email ben@maxmyprofit.com.au

** Sponsor the show: ben@maxmyprofit.com.au, put in subject line “interested in sponsoring BBF”

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

  The message from this is “get over your fear”. It’s highly likely that any business is doing something that is newsworthy, so don’t be shy about shouting about it. The key is to understand who to shout about it to. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF096_How_to_Generate_Publicity_for_Your_Business_with_Sue_Papadoulis.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We’ve gone pretty out there this week on BBF as we welcome Business Futurist, Craig Rispin onto the show. Craig is a world expert on how advances in technology can affect business – he is basically using technology as his corporate crystal ball! He’s worked as a future consultant for some of the biggest companies in the world, like Toyota, IBM, Symantec, Kimberly Clark etc. And he even likes to do drone racing in his spare time… a futuristic sport if ever there was one!

In a far-reaching discussion with Ben, he shared with us some of his tips on how to stay ahead of the game:

** The development of technology is actually predictable – it is possible to find out what is in progress.

** It’s a great time to be an SME. With technology growing at an ever-increasing rate, SMEs are better positioned than large corporates to embrace the change.

** Semi-autonomous vehicles are set to be our next “watershed moment” like the Iphone was.

** As a business owner you should identify these watershed moments and see how you can gain some business as a result of it. It is not just about working with the innovative product itself… how about the many links in the supply chain?

** Make yourself part of a network. When it comes to staying ahead in business, there is real safety in numbers.

The wider point is that managing AdWords is all about fine tuning. There is a big element of trial and error here, so it’s important you stay on top of what is working for you and what isn’t. Be ruthless with the campaigns that are struggling – don’t just wait around for them to come good. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** Why ignoring innovation was the main reason for the demise of Kodak

** The rapid rise of Tesla Motors

** How the world of commerce is currently changing

** The trend of robotics

** The 8 technologies that will impact SMEs in the near future

** How colossal computing can help your business

** The potential of co-working

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Craig’s website: http://www.futuretrendsgroup.com

** Craig’s Linkedin: https://au.linkedin.com/in/craigrispin

** Elon Musk books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias=aps&field-keywords=elon+musk

** Elon Musk interview @ Code Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsixsRI-Sz4

** Other book recommendations:

** https://www.amazon.com.au/Abundance-Future-Better-Than-Think-ebook/dp/B005FLOGMM/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1465261052&sr=1-1&keywords=abundance+the+future+is+better+than+you+think

** https://www.amazon.com.au/Bold-Create-Wealth-Impact-World-ebook/dp/B00LD1RZGM/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1465261138&sr=1-1&keywords=bold

** https://www.amazon.com.au/Exponential-Organizations-organizations-better-cheaper-ebook/dp/B00OO8ZGC6/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1465261164&sr=1-1&keywords=exponential+organisations

** Abundance Is Our Future TED Talk: http://www.ted.com/talks/peter_diamandis_abundance_is_our_future

** Ben’s free business coaching consultation: http://www.businessassessment.com.au

** Sponsor the show: ben@maxmyprofit.com.au, put in subject line “interested in sponsoring BBF”

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast: http://www.dbtpodcast.com

** Facebook: facebook.com/businessbrainfood

** Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood

** Twitter: https://twitter.com/bfewtrell

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes

** ActionCOACH: http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher

  As Craig says, “if we don’t remake ourselves every few years, we’re going backwards”. Listen to Craig today and find out how your business can keep pushing the boundaries. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF095_Know_First_Be_First_and_Profit_First_with_Craig_Rispin.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Greg Cassar is fast becoming a legend of the BBF podcast… we like him so much that we’ve invited him back for the third time! As one of Australia’s leading marketing coaches, there’s simply no one better at describing the technicalities of marketing in simple terms. This week we major on the world of Google AdWords, and how to use it best to get your business featured on google in order to generate leads.

Here are some of the best snippets:

** Remember the power of advertising on a search engine V advertising anywhere else. When someone types something in to google, they already want something.

** Google only charges you as the client when someone clicks the ad.

** Don’t forget Google Places For Business. You don’t need to pay for the right to appear on their map.

** Although the Google AdWords interface is user-friendly, you’re probably best using a professional for your campaigns in the first instance.

** Make sure any advert drives people to a focused page. A common mistake people make is to create a campaign ad for something specific that merely drives the traffic to a generic home page.

** Google prefers one page to be about one thing – always remember this.

** Track your activity! All of the tracking codes are there as part of the service – make sure you utilize them.

  The wider point is that managing AdWords is all about fine tuning. There is a big element of trial and error here, so it’s important you stay on top of what is working for you and what isn’t. Be ruthless with the campaigns that are struggling – don’t just wait around for them to come good. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** How to get results from an agency

** How to appear on the google map

** The “relevance + direct response” equation

** “Buying intent key words”

** The potential consequences of using landing page templates

** The importance of call tracking

** The “authority” of a site

** Cost per acquisition versus cost per click

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** This week’s sponsors, Bartercard are offering an interest-free line of credit of 10,000 AUD with a bonus 500 AUD. Visit: bartercard.com.au/actioncoach for an exclusive offer for Business Brain Food listeners

** Greg’s article on “How to do keyword research with google’s keyword planner” (http://com.au/google/keyword-planner/)

** Greg’s site (http://www.collective.com.au)

** Greg’s new podcast (http://www.salesforprofit.com)

** Sponsor the show: ben@maxmyprofit.com.au, put in subject line “interested in sponsoring BBF”

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Facebook (facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  As Greg reminded us, the cliché goes “google knows more about you than your partner”, so make sure you take heed of his marketing advice and get up to speed with it! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF094_How_to_Turn_Google_AdWords_Into_a_Cash_Spewing_Machine.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We’re all trying to make money in our businesses, but do we really know how to handle the money? Joan Sotkin explains to us some of the emotional pitfalls related to the process of making money, and what you can do to avoid them. Joan is the author of the hugely popular book “Build Your Money Muscles” and hosts The Prosperity Show podcasts which is now over 200+ episodes old. We know firsthand just what an achievement that is!

Joan is all about an holistic approach to business, having learnt from her own bankruptcy, and also from her inability to cope with financial success. She’s had a long and spiritual journey which began the day she asked herself “why do my brothers have what they want, and I don’t?” Read on for some of the spiritual nuggets that have helped Joan succeed in business and in life outside of it:

** Our emotions are our decisions. Emotions are our bridge from our internal world and the world around us.

** Meditation is a great tool to help find your own good judgment.

** The emotional habits that we learn through childhood can often hold us back. Don’t underestimate the quality of your heart-felt judgment.

** Money doesn’t take care of itself – you have to take care of it.

The main message to understand is that any amount of money means something emotionally. Whether it’s high or low, more than enough or not enough, there is an emotional reaction to it. Once you understand what that emotional reaction means you can find ways to change it for the better, or keep repeating the good feeling. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The emotion around money

** How shame can affect financial judgment

** How “touch” affects our everyday life

** “The identity factor”

** How to handle suddenly coming in to money

** The difference between feeling emotions and burying emotions

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** This week’s sponsors, Bartercard are offering an interest-free line of credit of 10,000 AUD with a bonus 500 AUD. Visit: bartercard.com.au/actioncoach for an exclusive offer for Business Brain Food listeners.

** Joan’s site: (http://prosperityplace.com/)

** Joan’s course: The Financial Freedom Formula (https://www.udemy.com/financial-freedom-formula/)

** Rode Videomic Me - directional microphone for ipad/iphones (http://www.rode.com/microphones/videomicme)

** Videoshop app for editing video (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.videoshop.app)

** Youtube Uploader (http://download.cnet.com/Youtube-Video-Splitter-Uploader/3000-2194_4-75000404.html)

** Sponsor the show: ben@maxmyprofit.com.au, put in subject line “interested in sponsoring BBF”

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Facebook (facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  It’s really important that you judge success in more lateral terms than money earned or money lost. Listen to the show for a load of shortcuts that will tell you how. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF093_Improve_Your_Relationship_with_Money_with_Joan_Sotkin.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We all want a better world, right? Our guest this week will explain just how easy it is for us to use our simple day-to-day business as a path towards a better world. And what’s more, we will discuss the enhanced power of connection that a giving company has with its customers, and just how valuable this can be.

The man with the plan this week is Paul Dunn; a world-renowned business guru, known as “The Wizard of Wow”. It’s certainly the first time we’ve had someone on the show who’s given four Tedx talks – this man is certainly worth listening to. What’s more, he’s one of the reasons we’re here at all, because he actually helped found Actioncoach alongside our good mate Brad Sugars. Nowadays, Paul fronts up B1G1 (Buy One Give One) which is a system to enable SMEs and their customers to help good causes with every single transaction. Paul is all about connection, so below are a few of the key points he made about how to connect with people in business:

** It’s not about getting a ‘wow’, it’s about getting an ‘oh’. Remember that a shock is not necessarily a good way of connecting.

** An estimated 2.5bn emails are sent per second, so we need to think long and hard about how we can make a stronger connection than the competition.

** Consider doing things a little bit differently in order for people to feel compelled to make a connection with you, i.e. setting appointments at unusual times like “3:50”.

** People do not have as much time to delve into the detail of business concepts as they used to, so a few small touches in the delivery could make all the difference.

** Because of the volume of competition out there, building trust has never been more important, and one surefire way of doing that is by showing that your company is conscientious.

  As Paul says, “there has never been a time like this” in the world of commerce. On the one hand that means that competition has never been more fierce, but on the other hand it means that the technology is there to enable businesses and their customers to give something back, and all parties to increase their connections with each other. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** How to build moments of connection

** Examples of how B1G1 can enable businesses to give something back

** The concept of Behavioural Economics

** “The love triangle”

** How to use “why” as an attractive business proposition

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Paul’s site: (http://www.b1g1.com)

** Book VIP tickets for an event in Sydney with Paul on June 15th (http://www. http://actioncoachanz.com/vip-event)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Facebook (facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  Pauls’ concept really is something that is changing the world, so have a listen to understand just how you can be a part of it, and how this can enhance your connections with your customers. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF092_The_Power_of_Small_with_Paul_Dunn.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

It’s always great to get one of our previous guests back on the show to give us a chance to get into even more detail. Alex Pirouz is something of a Linkedin legend, so in this episode we’ve asked him for his advice on how to use Linkedin to court the media.

Alex did his own survey and found out that 94.5% of journalists in the publications he analysed were on Linkedin, so if you want a tool to connect you to the media, look no further. Below are some of Alex’s top tips for using Linkedin to connect with the media:

** You are who google says you are, and a Linkedin profile is a fundamental part of that.

** In your Linkedin profile, think about the possible objections that a potential collaborator may have, and try and answer those.

** Don’t automatically accept every bit of coverage that is offered to you – make sure it is relevant to whatever brand image you want to project.

** When trying to connect with someone on Linkedin, always make the effort to write a customized message.

** Don’t just connect with anyone – it’s always worth checking just how active somebody is, for example.

** At the beginning of your media strategy, create a top 3 publications hit list, and then do a Linkedin search for each relevant reporter.

  Never forget the concept of “adding value” when doing any of the above. It’s an obvious statement, but it’s true. Just like out in the real world, you’re more likely to get something out of people on Linkedin if you build a rapport with them and make it look like you can bring something to their table, so don’t just go steaming in with a pitch asking for coverage. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The credibility of association

** The kind of challenges that journalists face, and how you could solve them

** “The moment of truth”

** How to weed out dodgy Linkedin profiles

** Which journalists will be the most effective for you

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** My Podcast Review (http://www.mypodcastreview.com)

** Alex’s site (http://www.linkfluencer.com)

** Help A Reporter (http://www.helpareporter.com)

** Source Bottle (http://www.sourcebottle.com.au)

** Free, no-obligation business coaching chat with a member of Ben’s team: (http://actioncoachanz.com/free-business-coaching-session)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Facebook (facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  Linkedin can often be more effective and significantly less expensive than hiring a PR firm to court the media on your behalf. Alex’s simple advice will tell you all you need to know to get started. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF091_How_To_Get_More_Media_Coverage_Using_LinkedIn_With_Alex_Pirouz.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Are you enduring your career, or are you enjoying your career? Our guest this week has kindly given us the toolkit to make sure we enjoy our careers. Mark McKeon has become a master of the art of mind control and high performance, thanks to 20+ years as a performance coach in the AFL and beyond.

What sets Mark apart from many gurus is that he is qualified in the physiology of performance, as well as the mental side. He’s just as comfortable talking about adrenaline and cortisol as he is about positive thinking and prioritising. His book, “The Go Zone”, is a culmination of his years of work and study, so we talked to him about how his “Go Zone” framework can be used by people to achieve maximum performance. Here were some of the highlights:

** Be in control of events rather than letting events control you.

** Stress in itself is not a bad thing – in fact, we all need a certain level of stress to remain healthy – but not recovering from stress is extremely harmful.

** Know your diary three weeks in advance and compartmentalise everything from the most important tasks right down to time off.

** Consider using a buzzer or some kind of automatic mechanism to help you compartmentalise your days.

** Have no shame in letting people know that you are not to be disturbed when you’re in your most important time slot of the day (AKA, your “Go Zone”). You could wear a hat, lock the door, turn your phone off etc. etc.

** Mark’s optimum length for being 100% focused on your own tasks is 2 hours

What’s in your mind has a clear physical impact which, in turn, affects the way you think and the way you perform. This is why getting a hold of each day is so important. The “Go Zone” is part of a framework to make sure you don’t sleepwalk into bad mental and physical habits. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The value of business coaching

** How to buy yourself more time

** How to get over the guilt of not doing work

** What a “Go Zone” means

** How to handle the weekend

** The control of adrenaline

** How cortisol can create unhealthy habits

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Mark’s email address: mark@mckeon.com.au

** Mark’s website: http://www.markmckeon.com/

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group – What should we do for the 100th show? Post your ideas to the group! (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Free, no-obligation business coaching chat with a member of Ben’s team: (http://actioncoachanz.com/free-business-coaching-session)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  Remember that there is some concrete science behind the ups and downs of the working day - it can be physically measured in terms of adrenaline, blood sugar etc. – it’s not just the random factor of “having a bad day” or “having a good day”. The good news is; you can control it. Have a listen to Mark and he’ll show you how. The science behind it is complex, but the way to apply it is very simple indeed. Now get in that Go Zone! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF090_Work_Life_Balance_and_High_Performing_Teams.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again; if your company is not on Facebook, then it should be. If you are on Facebook, then you can benefit from learning about the many different advertising options on offer, so this week we’ve got Samuel Junghenn on the show: a man who knows Facebook advertising inside out.

Samuel has used Facebook to push his own marketing business as well as for numerous different clients, so he has certainly been there and done it. He shared some great tips with Ben this week. We can’t mention them all here so do have a listen, but see below for some snippets:

** 74% of people will look you up online, even if they’ve heard about you before, so your online presence is vital.

** People seeing your ads is not what makes you money – it’s what happens after that.

** Be careful of people who claim to be ‘gurus’ of Facebook marketing. If they’re spending all of their time teaching then they probably aren’t keeping up with the marketing trends.

** The days of flashing banner ads are basically over. Think of your advertising as something that is down-to-earth and, ideally, part of a conversation about an issue that your audience is already having.

** If you’re running a competition, make sure the prize is relevant to a product or service your company is offering.

** Don’t make your Facebook audience too big. Optimum target audiences should be in between 10,000 and 100,000.

** Whatever campaign you do, it is vital you have the right mechanism to capitalize on any increased interest, i.e. a robust CRM system.

** Consider your strategy in three sections: “audience”, “offer” and “follow up”.

  There are many different forms of advertising on Facebook, but be cautious about spending too much money on the most simple methods. It’s worth understanding the ad manager properly and taking more time to focus your campaign. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** How to target different subsets of audiences

** The different types of Facebook ads

** Layering

** Native advertising

** Examples of how to harvest qualified leads

** Video advertising on Facebook

** The relevance of Facebook likes

** How to measure boosted posts

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Samuel’s marketing agency: http://www.thinkbigonline.com

** Samuel’s personal website/blog: http://www.samueljunghenn.com

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group – What should we do for the 100th show? Post your ideas to the group! (facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Sponsor the show: ben@maxmyprofit.com.au, put in subject line “interested in sponsoring BBF”

** Free, no-obligation business coaching chat with a member of Ben’s team: (http://actioncoachanz.com/free-business-coaching-session)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Facebook (facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

The different options on offer can be daunting, but that doesn’t mean that you should avoid Facebook marketing altogether. Even if you need to use an agency to do your marketing for you, you will only get the best out of your Facebook marketing campaigns if you understand the basics. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF089_Using_Facebook_Ads_To_Generate_Leads.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:36am AEDT

LinkedIn is hardly a new phenomenon, but do you really know how to utilise it properly for your business? Our guest this week, Jason Miller, certainly does. He’s the worldwide group manager for content marketing, so you can be pretty sure that he knows what he’s talking about. He came into the world of marketing after a career in music, first as a band member and then as an artist development professional for Sony Music. He became fascinated by the potential of the internet for bands/musicians to interact with their fans, but his employers didn’t share his enthusiasm, so he left and made it his mission to become an expert on all things internet marketing. He’s also written an Amazon #1 bestseller, Welcome To The Funnel, but if you want some of his insight without buying the book, see below, and then have a listen to the show!

** Write a good headline on your profile, and it doesn’t have to be short and snappy. This is your chance to give a brag summary of the services you offer.

** Don’t forget that LinkedIn profiles are searchable on google, so make sure they are optimised properly.

** The most effective blog posts on LinkedIn are commentaries on current news in your industry.

** Remember that anyone who interacts with blog posts on LinkedIn is directly contactable – they are not just faceless usernames like you would see below most other articles.

** Although a lot can be done on LinkedIn for free, it’s worth fully understanding the power of the premium services + also the potential of sponsored content.

** A LinkedIn company page is an absolute must.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** How to write an appropriate profile

** The power of LinkedIn blogging

** When it’s appropriate to connect with people

** What you get from LinkedIn Premium

** How LinkedIn integrates with Slideshare

** LinkedIn Sales Navigator

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Ben’s LinkedIn Profile: (https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/benfewtrell)

** Jason’s LinkedIn: (https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/jsnmiller)

** Slideshare: (http://www.slideshare.net/)

** The Sophisticated Marketer’s Guide To LinkedIn (https://business.LinkedIn.com/marketing-solutions/c/14/1/sophisticated-guide-for-marketing)

** Jason’s site: (http://www.welcometothefunnel.com/)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group – What should we do for the 100th show? Post your ideas to the group! (facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Sponsor the show: ben@maxmyprofit.com.au, put in subject line “interested in sponsoring BBF”

** Free, no-obligation business coaching chat with a member of Ben’s team: (http://actioncoachanz.com/free-business-coaching-session)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Facebook (facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  As Jason says, “people spend time on social networks, but they invest in LinkedIn”. Can you really afford to not be an expert on the biggest networking facility in the world? Jason will show you the ropes! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF088_From_Heavy_Metal_to_LinkedIn_Marketing.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Richard Maloney knows what it takes to build a winning team. After having done his time as an AFL player, he became an expert on motivation and mind coaching in the sporting arena. He was so successful (to the tune of 25 Premierships) that directors and fans of the teams he worked with recruited him into their businesses, and he now has a worldwide business that helps companies maximize their potential through team building.

Rich has seen proof that the main teambuilding techniques in the world of sport are applicable to the world of business, and has authored a great book called ‘The Minds Of Winning Teams’. See below for a sneak preview of some of his best advice. As you’ll see, it’s surprisingly simple.

** When things are at their worst, it is a great window of opportunity to make change.

** A key responsibility of a leader is to keep learning and growing.

** Taking pressure off a leader by dividing it among other members of the leadership team is one of the best things you can do to improve your business.

** Create a critical mass of ‘we’ people rather than ‘me’ people.

** Hierarchy is basically a thing of the past.

** Don’t see millennials as a problem – see them as the solution.

** Social connection is the most important aspect of teambuilding

  And there’s plenty more where this came from. If you listen to Richard for 45 minutes, you can’t fail to find something that will help engage your team in business. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** What a true leader really is

** How to re-engage employees

** The ‘quality, unity, trust, truth’ equation

** How to create social connection

** How to create a leadership group

** How to define a business in terms of its ‘heart’ and its ‘brain’

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group – What should we do for the 100th show? Post your ideas to the group! (facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Richard’s teambuilding website – check out the free employee engagement survey (http://www.engageandgrow.com.au)

** Richard’s mind training site: (http://www.qualitymind.com.au)

** Richard’s email address: richard@engageandgrow.com.au

** Sponsor the show: ben@maxmyprofit.com.au, put in subject line “interested in sponsoring BBF”

** Free, no-obligation business coaching chat with a member of Ben’s team: (http://actioncoachanz.com/free-business-coaching-session)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Facebook (facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  ‘Engagement is the new leadership’ as Richard says, so understanding how the likes of Richard build engagement is vital to the future of your business. And we don’t just have his word for it either. Deloitte recently released the results of a survey that listed ‘employee engagement and culture’ as the number one priority for every business, so make it your priority today by having a listen! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF087_Turning_De-Energised_Businesses_into_Rocking_Success_Stories.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We’ve got an interesting twist this week, as we speak to one of our loyal listeners about how he’s helping businesses around the world. Paul Higgins has a great corporate track record after having worked 18 years at Coca Cola, and now he has his own business which helps other companies automate those fiddly day-to-day tasks in order to free them up the time to think big and scale up the business. What’s more, Paul somehow managed to listen to 80+ BBF podcasts in just a couple of weeks, with my voice at double speed!

Paul talks specifically about a software package called Podio, which is what he uses to empower businesses to free up their time. In short, it is a different take on a CRM/internal reporting system, modeled on the concept of customisable templates and themes that we would normally associate with web building packages like Wordpress. Paul has a particularly personal stake in this. Because of a debilitating kidney disease, there will be a time when he will have to be on a dialysis machine for a number of hours every day, so this inspired him to find the perfect methodology for how to delegate day-to-day tasks and free up time. He wants his business to be able to run without him, and he wants to teach you to do the same. Below are some of the key points from the conversation:

** It takes a human being on average 16 minutes to refocus on a particular task, so it’s vitally important to eliminate distractions like constantly replying to emails.

** There are apps out there that can prevent you from opening certain applications on your computer or phone at certain times, and thus can help you focus on the job in hand.

** Poor implementation is of a system is a more likely reason for system inefficiency than a poor system itself.

** For implementing a new task-management system, it’s best to tailor it so it suits those at the very top of the company first. Once it has been proven to save time at executive level – the level where there is normally the biggest bottle-neck – then the value of the system can be fully ‘sold’ to the rest of the organisation.

** Successful entrepreneurs spend 20% of their time working on their business rather than working in it.

The last point is the most telling. It’s very easy for people at an executive level to be swamped by day-to-day tasks which distract them from the bigger picture. The solution is not to ignore them, but to find a system that can process them efficiently enough to free up time to think about developing the business beyond the day-to-day. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The concept of the “the time target”

** The inner workings of Podio

** The ‘discovery’ methodology

** How to fight ‘superman syndrome’

** How to use offshore virtual assistants to maximise efficiency

** How emails can be turned into tasks without actually having to read them

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Paul’s website: (http://www.bolloempire.com)

** Sponsor the show: ben@maxmyprofit.com.au, put in subject line “interested in sponsoring BBF”

** Free, no-obligation business coaching chat with a member of Ben’s team: (http://actioncoachanz.com/free-business-coaching-session)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Facebook (facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  Have you ever thought “I’m sure I can find a better system of working, but I don’t want to go through the hassle of implementing it”? It’s an understandable view, but listening to an hour of Paul talking will persuade you that it’s the wrong view, and that you should go out and make the effort to automate your business as best you can. As Paul says, “most people’s fears never come true”, and in the case of the business information system that Paul uses, he has the evidence to prove it. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF086_Use_technology_to_scale_your_business_Paul_Higgins.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Anyone who is part of a company of a certain size will understand the difficulties of the recruitment process. It simply isn’t automatic that a new recruit is going to fit in, and one key reason is because of the vast range of ages and generations that work under one roof. It’s perfectly common for a new employee to be working under somebody who is the same age as their parents, and while it is generally accepted that children and parents will see the world in a different way, employers often fall into the trap of expecting all generations to behave the same way in the workplace.

It was certainly a very interesting chat. See below for a sneak preview of some of the great advice Lee shared with us on how best to manage younger employees: As well as giving his incredible first-hand account of what happened on flight 1549 that day, Dave was kind enough to share with us some of the lessons he learnt from the incident that he has been applying to business and to life ever since:

** Outline company rules from the very beginning, ideally at the interview stage, i.e. working hours, social media policy etc.

** Again, from the earliest possible stage, clearly outline the prospects of career progression.

** In many cases, there is no such thing as ‘normal’. What one generation assumes as ‘normal’ could easily not be reflected by another generation.

** Accept that people are going to leave, sometimes after a relatively short time. Remember that there is a high value in having your employers leave on good terms.

The key thing to remember is that younger workers have grown up in an era where information is more readily available than it was to certain older generations. Therefore they expect a lot of feedback, and a lot of clarity on company policy. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** What ‘the millennial generation’ actually means

** How technology has shaped the perceptions of the millennial generation

** How the concept of ‘end of day’ is being challenged

** A reasonable expectation of staff loyalty and length of service today

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Sponsor the show: ben@maxmyprofit.com.au, put in subject line “interested in sponsoring BBF”

** Free, no-obligation business coaching chat with a member of Ben’s team: (http://actioncoachanz.com/free-business-coaching-session)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  As Lee saliently pointed out, if your company doesn’t cater for younger employees then it doesn’t have much of a future… you simply cannot afford to dismiss the challenges that younger employees bring. Learn about how best to work with them, and take action! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF085_Managing_Multi_generation_teams_with_Lee_Caraher.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

This has to be one of the most extraordinary BBF episodes – it isn’t every day you get to speak to a survivor of a plane crash. Dave Sanderson was on the now infamous US Airways flight 1549 which was struck by a flock of Canada geese just moments after takeoff on January 15 2009. The pilot was forced to ditch the plane in the Hudson river. This quick thinking helped save all 155 people on board, but it was not the only quick thinking on the plane that day. Dave Sanderson was also lauded for his quick thinking during the rescue. As he was making for his nearest exit, he heard the voice of his late mother in his head, and proceeded to step up to lead the rescue effort for all the passengers on his side of the plane. He became the last person to be rescued from the scene, and has since used his experience to become an internationally renowned motivational speaker.

As well as giving his incredible first-hand account of what happened on flight 1549 that day, Dave was kind enough to share with us some of the lessons he learnt from the incident that he has been applying to business and to life ever since:  

** Think hard about how you manage your time. If you were faced with an impending tragedy, would you regret having not spent enough time with your family?

** Don’t take anything you learn for granted. You never know when you might need the knowledge to save yourself or someone else.

** Communicate with people in the way they are most comfortable, not the way you are most comfortable.

  Dave has written a book called ‘Moments Matter’ which outlines 12 different lessons like the above. His story is a great lesson of what can be achieved when people seize the moment. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** A first-hand account of the Hudson river crash

** The concept of post-traumatic growth syndrome

** How to help people out of a trance situation

** How to manage focus

** How an extreme situation can focus the mind

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Free, no-obligation business coaching chat with a member of Ben’s team: (http://actioncoachanz.com/free-business-coaching-session)

** Dave’s site: (http://www.davesandersonspeaks.com)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Leave feedback on this podcast and receive a free business coaching CD from Ben.  Winners are also entered into a draw for a DVD pack worth 500 AUD.  Email screenshot of your feedback to: ben@maxmyprofit.com.au

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  Dave’s story is an unforgettable one. Listen to it in full and prepare to be inspired! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF084_Beyond_the_miracle_on_the_hudson_Dave_sanderson.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Joshua Belanger is living proof of the power of email marketing. Originally a Wall Street options broker, he used email marketing to reinvent himself as an options-trading adviser to the public. He now has a big enough following to be regularly quoted by the likes of the Wall Street Journal and Reuters, while his own website Option Sizzle continues to go from strength to strength. Here are some of Joshua’s top tips:

** Don’t go overboard with bells and whistles. The more obstacles you remove from the process, the easier it is to maintain regular output.

** Most mass-email software is similar. Don’t waste too much time worrying which one is best.

** Leave people wanting more from your content so they become active rather than passive.

** Manage subscribers’ expectations from the very beginning, i.e. be honest with how often you will be sending them emails.

** Opt outs are not always a bad thing. Don’t allow your strategy to be driven by the need to avoid them.

** Repeat business is more easy than you think. If someone has bought once, don’t be afraid to try to sell to them again.

  Joshua’s strategy is unashamedly aggressive. He focuses on the simplicity of daily output over any concerns about offending his subscribers. To him, someone who unsubscribes would never have been a paying customer anyway, so any strategy should not concentrate on trying to placate these people too much.   In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The potential impact of capturing emails

** How to design a mailout

** How to properly understand your audience

** The pros and cons of free giveaways

** Average email open rates

** How to be entertaining in short form

** The optimum length of an email

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Free, no-obligation business coaching chat with a member of Ben’s team: (http://actioncoachanz.com/free-business-coaching-session)

** 8 recurring themes of leadership and culture: (http://actioncoachanz.com/8-recurring-themes-of-leadership-and-culture-lessons-i-learned-from-john-eales)

** Joshua Belanger’s site: (http://www.optionsizzle.com)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Sales Made Simple Workshops with Ben (http://actioncoachanz.com/salesmadesimple)

** Leave feedback on this podcast and receive a free business coaching CD from Ben.  Winners are also entered into a draw for a DVD pack worth 500 AUD.  Email screenshot of your feedback to: ben@maxmyprofit.com.au

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

 

  Despite what some people might say, email marketing is still an immensely powerful tool, and for many companies can still be the most important part of the marketing mix. If you want to maximize the power of email marketing for your business, listen to Joshua! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF083_Simple_Daily_emails_double_sales_Joshua_Belanger.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

We’ve all heard of webinars, but how many of us actually know how to use them to make money for our business? This week’s guest Steven Essa certainly does – he travels around the world showing people how. Webinars can be useful for so much in the course of business, i.e. more sales, lead generation, increasing your own authority etc.; but like most people, Steven didn’t realise their value at first. He’d always struggled to write good sales copy so was always frustrated at the low quality of his online output, until one day he was completely inspired by the quality of a seminar he attended. He realised that if he simply projected his own personality online in the same way, he could make money online without the need for the conventions of sales copy and mailshots.

Steven was full of great detail about the art form when he spoke to BBF. Here’s a sneak preview of some of his insight:

** Webinars produce higher conversion rates than ‘conventional’ online marketing channels.

** The concept of seeing someone projected on a video can often actually qualify the speaker better than if you were to meet them in person.

** All webinars need a title that identifies a specific target market, and then a specific benefit.

** Break all webinars into pre-defined steps.

** Don’t sell during the main content of the presentation. Any calls to action must be at the end.

** Forget about branding. Plane ole black & white looks more believable and less salesy than a properly branded message.

  In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The first steps towards getting started with webinars

** How a webinar can replace cold-call sales scripts

** How to find the perfect webinar title

** How to create the all-important Segway between impartial information and a sales pitch

** How to automate webinars

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Best place to host webinars (Gotowebinar.com)

** The Webinator Software (http://www.webinator.biz/)

** Steve’s website (http://www.stevenessar.com)

** Free, no-obligation business coaching chat with a member of Ben’s team: (http://actioncoachanz.com/free-business-coaching-session)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Sales Made Simple Workshops with Ben (http://actioncoachanz.com/salesmadesimple)

** Leave feedback on this podcast and receive a free business coaching CD from Ben.  Winners are also entered into a draw for a DVD pack worth 500 AUD.  Email screenshot of your feedback to: ben@actioncoachanz.com

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  It really was astonishing to find out that conversion rates from webinars have been measured as approximately 10 TIMES higher than from mailshots. Those figures alone should be enough to convince you that Steven is worth listening to! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF082_Webinars_to_grow_your_Business.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Chris Gray has truly built an empire… an AUD 14m property empire to be precise! As a result he has gained great notoriety as a commentator on the marketplace… you may have seen him appearing on his fortnightly slot on Sky News called “Your Property Empire”. Perhaps what has made him so successful is his schooling beyond property. Chris is also qualified as an accountant and as a mortgage broker which has enabled him to see beyond the bricks and mortar. It is a great privilege to have such a great all-rounder on the show, so if you aren’t listening already, have a look at a few of these highlights from our chat:

** Buying property in capital cities is generally a safe bet.

** Second guessing a more ‘provincial’ property marketplace can offer high rewards, but also high losses.

** Do not underestimate the value of mortgage brokers.

** Refinance your portfolio regularly to ensure a consistent release of equity.

** Use zero emotion when investing.

** Remember that someone else can do all of the donkeywork for you.

  Beyond the above, Chris was very keen to point out that when you have multiple properties, paying off mortgage debt can often be pointless. Using spare equity to increase an asset base is generally more productive than paying off a mortgage, especially if you refinance regularly. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** How to raise finance to build a property portfolio quickly

** Differing attitudes to money across generations

** How best to reinvest equity

** The benefits of a “buyer’s agent”

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Podcast Addict app: (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bambuna.podcastaddict&hl=en_GB)

** Smart Passive Income Podcast Tutorial: (http://www.smartpassiveincome.com/how-to-start-a-podcast-podcasting-tutorial/)

** Cliff Ravenscroft: Podcast Answerman (http://podcastanswerman.com/learn-how-to-podcast/)

** Chris’ Website with free book (http://www.yourempire.com.au)

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Sales Made Simple Workshops with Ben (http://actioncoachanz.com/salesmadesimple)

** Leave feedback on this podcast and receive a free business coaching CD from Ben.  Winners are also entered into a draw for a DVD pack worth 500 AUD.  Email screenshot of your feedback to: ben@actioncoachanz.com

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  Chris’ story shows that you don’t necessarily need to be a slave to property day-to-day in order to earn a full-time living from it. His own company and many others like it specialize in doing the hard work to acquire and trade property, so you might be surprised at just what returns could be open to you in double-quick time if you shook off the fear and took the plunge… Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF081_Effortlessly_build_your_property_Empire.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

This man is a serious legend in the world of human performance, so much so that Ben credits him as the person who inspired him to get where he is today. Having studied the art for a total of 43 years and having authored 40 self-development books, John is now revered as a world authority on the matter.

What makes John such a good guest is the practicality of his theory. He is not a generic ‘guru’ who simply deals in top-level philosophy – he distills everything in to day-to-day goals that we can all use for ourselves. BBF listeners will also be enthused by the fact that he succeeded in business before he became a human-performance expert; building up a chiropractor firm in double-quick time that made him the envy of the industry. If you still aren’t persuaded that you need to listen to the episode, have a look below for a summary of some of the advice he gave. Once you read that, you’re bound to give it a listen!

** Find out what really is valuable to you, not what other people decide is valuable

** If you please everybody on the outside, you’ll ultimately be displeased on the inside

** Your goals will be mere fantasy unless your values actually link properly to your goals

** It is possible to change your values

** When your values shift, you can better see new opportunities

** If you struggle to be motivated to do what you say is important, then it is probably not all that important to you at all

  What Dr John keeps going back to is the concept of aligning values with high-level goals. On paper this might sound like an obvious way of being a high achiever, but simply beING clear about both values and goals is not enough. The key is for the path between the two to be clear. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The 6 things common to wealthy people

** The “200 benefits” method

** The definition of ‘fear’

** The workings of the ‘executive centre’ of the brain

** The myths of depression

** The benefits of saying no

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Ben’s Daily Business Tips podcast (http://www.dbtpodcast.com)

** Sales Made Simple Workshops with Ben (http://actioncoachanz.com/salesmadesimple)

** Leave feedback on this podcast and receive a free business coaching CD from Ben.  Winners are also entered into a draw for a DVD pack worth 500 AUD.  Email screenshot of your feedback to: ben@actioncoachanz.com

** Dr Demartini’s website, including the “Determine Your Values” exercise: (http://www.drdemartini.com)

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  Dr Demartini’s methods are an important lesson in what is possible if you think laterally and are honest with yourself. Just because Bill Gates is a billionaire doesn’t mean that you actually need to be. You might be surprised at how much more achievable your goals suddenly become when you use Dr Demartini’s methods to properly align your values. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF080_Maximise_human_performance_with_DrJohn_Demartini.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Matt Holmes is so passionate about networking that he has become known as Matt “handshakin” Holmes. He even has a world record for the longest ever handshake, standing at the grand total of 46 hours! Matt first realised the power of networking when he landed a big contract as a result of his future employers seeing photos of him online shaking hands with people who had connections with that company. He now has his own agency (appropriately enough, called “Handshakin”), but in this week’s podcast he gave us some of his advice for free: Here are some of the highlights:

** When approaching someone online who you don’t know, be specific. Make them feel that they’re the only person capable of doing what you’re asking them to do.

** At networking events, don’t assume that just handing out your business card is the main goal. Have a conversation first before you go steaming in.

** Keep the ball rolling with the contacts you meet in real life. Follow up immediately online by adding them on one of your social networks.

** Wear a different hat depending on the networking event you’re attending. For example, consider if your goal is to find leads or if it’s to gain referrals. These two scenarios would require significantly different conversations.

** Get the job done quickly – it doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s more important to strike while the iron’s hot (i.e. when your new contact/audience is receptive) than to wait longer and aim for perfection.

  The ever-increasing use of the online sphere has led some to believe that the formality of networking in person is a thing of the past, but this really is not the case. There is no substitute for a face-to-face meeting, but the many online networking opportunities out there are great for making the face-to-face meetings more likely to happen. And while there is much networking and business that can be done exclusively online, it is more important to understand how an online networking tool can link to ‘action’ in the real world (i.e. meeting for a coffee, doing some business etc.) than it is to be an expert at building up a load of online contacts. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The future of real-life networking

** The viability of networking groups

** How to stand out online

** The importance of building a personal brand

** The Conspire and Any Mail apps

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Sales Made Simple Workshops with Ben (http://actioncoachanz.com/salesmadesimple)

** Leave feedback on this podcast and receive a free business coaching CD from Ben.  Winners are also entered into a draw for a DVD pack worth AUD$500.  Email screenshot of your feedback to: ben@actioncoachanz.com

** Matt’s website (handshakin.com/about-matt)

** Matt’s Ebook “6 Networking Strategies For Entrepreneurs” (http://www.handshakin.com/free)

** Matt’s own agency site: (http://www.handshakin.com/)

** Matt’s username on Snapchat is “handshaking”

** Matt’s twitter is (http://www.twitter.com/handshakin)

** Any Mail app (https://anymailfinder.com/)

** Conspire App (https://www.conspire.com)

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  “Network is net worth” as Matt so rightly said. If you’re starting out in business you’re going to need all the traction you can get, so networking is a must. And if you’ve got an established business, don’t be complacent and assume you have all the contacts you need. By networking you ensure that your business doesn’t stand still. Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF079_Building_Relationships_to_Build_your_Business_Matt_Holmes.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Tom Breeze has made it his duty to educate people on the massive potential of YouTube advertising. He was inspired to spread the word after the roaring success of a video advert he created for his previous therapy/self-help business. Having never done video advertising before, he uploaded his own advert to his site, and was amazed to see his lead conversion rate go up from 7% to 22%.

Since then he has created over 1,700 video ad campaigns and has analysed the data from every single one of them, so he certainly knows what he’s talking about! You really must listen to it, but if you’re still not persuaded, here is a sneak preview of some of his best advice:

** Video doesn’t have to be complicated, in fact sometimes the opposite is better. An honest and down-to-earth description of why something is good can be a lot more effective than a contrived sales pitch.

** Don’t forget, YouTube is not merely an entertainment resource. More people than you think are researching products/services on YouTube.

** It’s always the ‘right time’ for the buyer on YouTube, because they’ve just proven they’re keen by typing in a particular search term.

** When you’re starting out it’s best if you create a campaign that can quickly turn leads in to sales. A long lead time between initial traffic and the possibility of buying will make it very hard for you to measure your progress effectively.

  Think of YouTube as a place where people go window shopping, but a place where there still are not all that many shops.  Youtube advertising is so often overlooked in the marketing mix, so there is a great opportunity to make a real impact. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** The ‘four p’ formula

** What an Indisplay ad is

** How to use key phrases to your advantage in YouTube searches

** The most effective use of skippable, pre-roll ads

** The optimum length of video ads

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** Leave feedback on this podcast and receive a free business coaching CD from Ben.  Winners are also entered into a draw for a DVD pack worth 500 AUD.  Email screenshot of your feedback to: ben@actioncoachanz.com

** Tom Breeze’s personal website (http://www.tombreeze.com)

** Tom’s Agency, Viewability (http://viewability.co.uk/)

** One-on-one 90-minute business assessment with Ben (http://www.businessassessment.com.au)

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  Remember, Tom has done 1,700+ campaigns in his time, so if he says there’s a gap in the market that can be exploited on Youtube, you should believe him!  Don’t think that you don’t need video advertising, and don’t think that it’s going to be too much hassle to pull it off.  Get cracking with it today! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF078_Crushing_YouTube_Ads_Tom_Breeze.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Mark Schaefer is an absolute guru when it comes to social media. Having worked with numerous Fortune 500 companies over a number of years, he left the corporate world to indulge his obsession for sharing his knowledge with others, as a lecturer and author of six different books.

In this week’s podcast we are lucky enough to hear Mark giving us a sneak preview of his new book, The Content Code. Mark was inspired to write the book when he kept being asked the same questions from business owners, i.e. How do we get started? How do we create the strategy? How do we respond to negative comments? How do you measure all this? Here are some useful snippets:

** You can’t have a digital strategy unless you have a marketing strategy.

** Can you easily complete the sentence “only we….”? If you can’t, then you don’t have a strategy.

** Don’t be a slave to the different social mediums. Think first what the best kind of content is that you can create, and then find the platform best suited to delivering it.

** Zone in on who is sharing your content and tailor your output for them and people like them.

** It’s not all about traffic! Interaction is the key.

  By 2020, the amount of info on the web is expected to increase by 500%, so it is vitally important to focus properly on your content in order to stand out. As Mark puts it, “the rules of engagement” with the public are changing almost daily, but the main social platforms do not change regularly, so businesses should not be intimidated by all of the different choices out there. A working knowledge of the two or three most useful social platforms for your business is all you really need. In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** What makes a social media channel popular

** How a business works out where their customers are

** The future viability of blogging

** How to get your content seen and shared

** The ‘alpha’ audience

  Resources mentioned in this episode:

** The Marketing Companion Podcast (http://www.businessesgrow.com/podcast-the-marketing-companion-2/)

** Content Code Audiobook. You can get it for free from Amazon by signing up to the Audbile Book free trial (http://www.amazon.com)

** Mark’s website (http://www.businessesgrow.com)

** Business Assessment free tutorial (http://www.businessassessment.com.au)

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

  Every business needs to understand social media, but more importantly; they need to understand how people are using it to interact with their business. If you believe a man of Mark Shaefer’s experience, this is not as difficult as it sounds…… just buy a book and you won’t go far wrong! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell (02) 9111 5000

Direct download: BBF077_The_Content_Code_Mark_W_Schaefer.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Steve Hui is the leading authority on optimising credit cards for frequent flyer points. Dubbed “The Points Whisperer”, his company I Fly Flat helped his customers spend 125 million points in 2015.

Steve was inspired to start the business when he once flew business class and decided that he wanted to do it more often. He realised just what was possible by earning loyalty points on credit cards. He then advised his friends to switch credit cards and cash in on the benefits. When none of them took him up on the advice, he was frustrated enough to create his own company that helps people use points that they don’t know what do with, as well as pointing people in the direction of the right cards that will earn them the most points. They can then look after the entire flight booking process. The highlights of Steve’s story were:

** Starting a business where there is no existing market is worth the risk (he has no competitors)

** Businesses should use their credit cards to pay their suppliers – they can even pay their rent with it

** Using a credit card to pay monthly bills can pay your supplier immediately, but still give you 30+ days of credit

** By spending as little as 60,000 AUD, you can get free business class flights

** He received a great boost from media coverage, but wrongly thought that his company wasn’t interesting enough to be covered in the media. He advises anyone to have a media strategy, whatever their company

In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** How to decide which credit cards are best for you

** How many points you will need for certain flights

** Strategies to achieve flight upgrades

** The concept of ‘remarketing’

** The 95% rule

** The pros and cons of using a marketing agency

Resources mentioned in this episode:

** I Fly Flat website (http://www.iflyflat.com.au)

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

If you are using your credit card for regular purchases, you might well be entitled to significant frequent flyer points. If you are not using your credit card for regular purchases then you should, especially if you are a business! Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell

Direct download: BBF076_Fly_Flat_with_Steve_Hui.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

Facebook marketing is something that every business could benefit from. This week’s guest Greg Cassar shares his online marketing expertise with us, offering some of the tricks of the trade to make your facebook campaigns stand out from the crowd. This is actually the second time Greg has appeared on the show (see his last appearance here: http://actioncoachanz.com/bbf-071-how-to-get-more-leads-customers-and-sales-with-digital-marketing-expert-greg-cassar). We decided to invite him back because the feedback from his last show was so darn good; so keep reading for a brief summary of Greg’s no-nonsense take on facebook marketing.

If you are uncertain whether Facebook is the right medium for you, then Greg will have changed your mind by the end of the podcast. Here are some of the main reasons why Facebook marketing is so powerful:

** Facebook is a more targeted form of marketing than banner ads

** Greg believes there has never been a better time in history to position your brand, and Facebook is one of the main reasons for this

** Every time someone clicks ‘like’ or they share or comment, Facebook logs this as part of an intelligent database that can be used when you buy Facebook advertising

** For no more than 20 AUD per day, you can run a very advanced and targeted advertising campaign

** By just changing an ad’s image, you can hit way more people

** Running a wide range of adverts is very easy on Facebook

The phrase that Greg keeps referring back to is “perpetual motion”, i.e. whatever marketing you do on facebook, make sure it is part of a consistent flow. A surefire way to waste money is by spending big and then pulling the plug. Facebook will also give your ads better priority if you’re consistent. Another important thing to consider is your mindset when analysing a campaign. If a campaign goes badly, don’t take it personally. See each advert and each campaign as an experiment, but an experiment that is always effective enough to give you the data you need to make your next marketing decision

In this episode of Business Brain Food you will learn:

** Why you should market on Facebook

** How ‘big data’ is set to shape Facebook marketing in Australia

** The different ways of advertising on Facebook (there are a total of 15 different advert types)

** The concept of ‘remarketing’

** The 95% rule

** The pros and cons of using a marketing agency

Resources mentioned in this episode:

** For a one-on-one business assessment (http://www.businessassessment.com.au)

** Greg’s website (http://www.collective.com.au)

** Podcast Addict for Androids (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bambuna.podcastaddict&hl)

** Facebook (www.facebook.com/businessbrainfood)

** Business Brain Food Facebook Group (www.facebook.com/groups/businessbrainfood)

** Twitter (https://twitter.com/bfewtrell)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/itunes)

** ActionCOACH (http://actioncoachanz.com/stitcher)

Remember, there are 1.5bn people on facebook worldwide (18m in Australia), so unless you want to miss out on a load of potential leads, you simply have to understand the brilliant marketing opportunities that facebook has to offer, and who better to teach you than a straight-talking Aussie called Greg? Also, if you are enjoying these Business Brain Food podcasts, then make sure to share them via social media sites or email the links to family and friends. A lot of time and effort goes into producing each of these podcasts with the goal in mind of the more people we can inspire about business the better. You can help us do just that! Until next time, have a profitable day. Cheers, Ben Fewtrell

Direct download: BBF075_Mastering_Facebook_Advertising_Greg_Cassar.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm AEDT

1