The Australian Small Business Show

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. We sat down this week to talk about something that's been frustrating Matt for months: marketing that used to work just doesn't anymore. The core concepts of sales and marketing haven't changed, but everything around them has sped up, and the touchpoints that used to build a relationship with a customer now have to happen faster and smarter than they did even a year ago. The biggest shift we're seeing is where people go to find answers. It's no longer just Google, it's AI tools, and even when people are on Google, it's often Google's AI doing the summarising. That means the old SEO playbook of giving away just enough to get someone to click through doesn't work anymore. Your content has to actually answer the question, properly, or AI skips straight past it. Matt's been rebuilding his own website with this in mind, researching what's landing in those AI-generated answer boxes and making sure his content earns a spot there too. But being found by AI is only half the job. Once someone does land on your website or your socials, they're still checking whether they like you, whether they trust you, whether you're their vibe. That hasn't changed, and if anything it matters more, because trust has taken a hit across the board now that so much content is AI-generated. Kristy-Lee's approach has been to let AI analyse her own analytics and tell her what's resonating, without letting AI write the content itself, because the trust piece has to stay genuinely hers. We also talked about where to actually spend your energy. Referrals, recommendations, testimonials and Google reviews matter more than ever. Your email list is one of the only things you truly own. And rather than trying to be everywhere, it might be smarter to pick two or three platforms and do them properly instead of spreading yourself across five. We'd love to hear what you're noticing in your own marketing right now, what's working, what you've quietly stopped doing because it wasn't earning its keep anymore. Come find us on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok and tell us. Key Takeaways: Why the fundamentals of sales and marketing haven't changed, but the speed and format of every touchpoint has Why website and blog content now needs to directly answer questions to be picked up by AI search tools, not just rank in Google Why trust matters more than ever, and why that's a reason to be cautious about outsourcing your content creation to AI Why analytics are worth paying closer attention to right now, and how AI can help you interpret them without writing your content for you Why referrals, testimonials, Google reviews and your email list deserve more of your attention than chasing every new platform Why focusing on two or three platforms you can do well may beat trying to maintain a presence everywhere Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We’d love to hear from you! Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. In this episode we unpack single person risk from three angles. On the team side, we talk about what happens when one person holds all the knowledge in your business, prompted by a recent client experience where a well-structured team was still genuinely shaken by one unexpected resignation. We discuss why documenting processes and SOPs properly, rather than letting a team member build their own undocumented system, is the single biggest thing you can do to protect your business, and how much easier that's become with AI tools that can help capture a process as you talk it through. We then move to client concentration risk, sharing our own experiences of losing a client that made up a significant share of revenue, and why we think 20% of income from any one source is a sensible ceiling to work towards. We talk honestly about how easy it is to let marketing slide once a big, comfortable client comes along, and the flow-on risk of giving one client enough power to push down your prices as well as your time. Finally we cover supplier risk, particularly relevant right now given how many businesses across industries like construction are going into liquidation. We share an example of a manufacturing client who built a genuine three-tiered supplier strategy, with backup suppliers they maintained real relationships with, not just names on a list, so they were never completely exposed to one supplier's problems. Across all three, the common thread is control. If someone else, whether that's a team member, a client or a supplier, holds the power in the relationship, your business carries real risk. Have you been asking yourself, "How reliant is my business on any one person?" This episode gives you a practical starting point for finding out, and for building in the contingencies before you're forced to. Key Takeaways: Document your processes and SOPs properly rather than letting critical knowledge live in one person's head, and use AI tools to make capturing them easier than ever Aim to keep any single client below 20% of your revenue, and keep marketing running in the background even when a big client makes it tempting to stop Build genuine backup supplier relationships before you need them, not just a name in a drawer you've never actually ordered from Watch for situations where a team member, client or supplier holds enough power to start dictating terms, whether that's pricing, timelines or decisions Assume loyalty isn't a long-term plan; build a simple contingency matrix so a resignation, a lost client or a supplier collapse doesn't mean panic stations Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We’d love to hear from you. Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. This week we're joined by Frieda Maher from SalesPOD, an independent technology consultant who helps small businesses plan their CRM and customer facing systems without being tied to any particular software provider. That independence matters, because Frieda isn't trying to sell you a licence, she's trying to find what actually works for your business, and that's exactly the lens we bring to this conversation. We start by unpacking what "CRM" actually means, because it gets thrown around as if it's one thing when it's really a broad church. There's marketing CRM (newsletters, automated sequences), sales CRM (tracking conversations and pipeline so nothing falls through the cracks when more than one person is talking to customers), service CRM (think Zendesk style ticketing) and e-commerce CRM (the Shopify style "people who bought this also bought that"). Most small businesses don't need all four, and a lot of us are only using a fraction of what we're already paying for. Frieda gives us a genuinely useful filter for deciding whether you need a system at all: value only ever comes from two places, more sales or more efficiency. If a shiny new feature doesn't move you towards one of those, it's not worth the extra cost or complexity. We also dig into the real tipping points, when a spreadsheet stops cutting it (usually once more than one person is talking to the same customers), how to think about growth and pricing tiers before you commit, and why integration, making sure your systems actually talk to each other, is one of the most overlooked and most technical parts of the decision. One idea that reframes the whole conversation is Frieda's point that choosing software is a three to five year decision, not a forever one. Your business will change, the software will change, and planning with that horizon in mind changes how you evaluate cost, implementation time and what you're prepared to compromise on now. Have you been asking yourself whether the system (or spreadsheet) you're using is actually helping you grow, or just quietly costing you sales and hours every week? This episode gives you a genuinely practical framework for answering that, before you spend another dollar on software you might not need. Frieda Maher is an independent technology consultant at SalesPOD, specialising in helping small businesses plan customer facing systems, with a particular focus on CRM. Unlike many providers in the space, Frieda isn't aligned with any single software vendor, so her recommendations are built around what genuinely suits the business in front of her, not what she's incentivised to sell. Connect with Frieda: Website: https://www.salespod.com.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/friedamaher/ Key Takeaways: Understand that "CRM" isn't one product, marketing, sales, service and e-commerce systems each do a different job, and most businesses only need some of them Use Frieda's value filter (more sales or more efficiency) to cut through flashy features that won't actually move the needle for your business Recognise the real signs you've outgrown a spreadsheet, usually when more than one person is talking to the same customers Treat any software decision as a three to five year commitment, not a forever one, and let that shape how you weigh cost and implementation time Prioritise integration, checking new systems talk to what you already use, as one of the most overlooked steps in the buying process Go in with realistic expectations on switching costs and implementation time, because both are almost always underestimated Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We’d love to hear from you! Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Hello and welcome to this weeks episode of The Australian Small Business Show. Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. In this episode we get honest about something we don't talk about enough: why we're actually building our businesses in the first place. Kristy-Lee came back from a mastermind with a lot to think about rather than a clear next step, and it led to a realisation - she'd been chasing a goal she'd set because she thought she should, not because it actually motivated her. That fuzziness, we discuss, is something almost every business owner runs into eventually, and it's worth stopping to name. We unpack the different reasons people actually build small businesses, from wanting to create a legacy and build something bigger than themselves, to giving back to a local community, to chasing lifestyle and freedom of time and location. We also talk about the shift toward building a business as a wealth creation vehicle (a saleable asset) and how that single decision changes everything else, from how you handle a client leaving to how you make marketing and retention decisions. When you know what game you're playing, every decision gets easier. When you don't, you can end up going through the motions without realising it. Have you been asking yourself, "why am I actually doing this?" If so, this episode will help you get clear on what game you're playing, because once you know that, you can start playing to win it. Key Takeaways: Get honest about why you're really building your business: legacy, community contribution, lifestyle and freedom, or wealth creation are all valid, but they're not interchangeable. Notice when a goal has stopped being yours and started being one you think you "should" have, that fuzziness is a signal, not a failure. Understand that your real "why" should drive practical decisions, hiring, marketing, retention and systems all look different depending on the game you're playing. If you're building toward a sale, treat every decision as a test of whether it moves you closer to that outcome, not just whether it solves today's problem. Expect your reason for building the business to evolve as the market shifts or your own life changes, that's normal, not a sign you got it wrong the first time. We'd love to hear from you on this. Why are you building your small business? Let us know on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok, or email Matt directly at matt@thefootprintgroup.com.au . Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We’d love to hear from you! Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Hello and welcome to this weeks episode of The Australian Small Business Show. Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. If you want to get better results from conferences, training programs and networking events without wasting valuable time or money, this episode is for you. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. In this episode we discuss how Australian small business owners can maximise the return on the time and money they invest in conferences, training, masterminds and professional development. Whether you're attending because you genuinely want to learn, need to complete CPD requirements, or are looking to grow your professional network, we explore how to be intentional about the events you choose and the outcomes you want to achieve. We share practical strategies for selecting the right events, setting clear objectives before you attend, and making sure you're investing in opportunities that genuinely support your business. We also discuss balancing education with networking, planning for time away from your business, and why being present during an event is just as important as showing up. If you've been asking yourself, "How do I know whether a conference or training event is worth the investment?" or "How can I make sure I actually implement what I learn?" , this episode provides practical advice to help you turn learning into measurable business outcomes. We also discuss why following up with new connections, reviewing your key learnings, and creating space to implement new ideas are essential if you want to see a genuine return on your investment. Key Takeaways: Be clear about why you're attending an event before committing your time and money, whether your goal is education, networking, CPD or business growth. Choose conferences and training that align with your current business priorities rather than attending simply because they're convenient or industry standard. Create space before and during an event so you can be fully present and make the most of both the presentations and the conversations. Develop a follow-up plan for new contacts, relationships and opportunities so valuable connections don't disappear once the event ends. Schedule time after the event to review your notes, implement new ideas and share key learnings with your team to maximise the return on your investment. Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We’d love to hear from you! Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Hello and welcome to this weeks episode of The Australian Small Business Show. Today we are joined by returning guest Kristy Smith from Virtual Elves to chat about some tips and traps for engaging an offshore VA’s. Kristy and her team at Virtual Elves help busy entrepreneurs scale faster through virtual assistant support, without burn out or the high cost of hiring employees.Virtual Elves is an Australian-managed outsourcing agency connecting skilled Filipino virtual assistants with growing Australian businesses. Kristy started the business over 15 years ago and Virtual Elves has become a trusted partner to hundreds of business owners who value quality, consistency, and care. She is a speaker, mentor, and strategist, sharing what she has learned about building sustainable systems, leading with empathy, and growing teams that genuinely thrive — both in Australia and the Philippines. In this episode we explore why successfully working with an offshore VA involves much more than simply finding someone with the right technical skills. Understanding cultural differences, your own communication and leadership style, and how to confirm that instructions have genuinely been understood can make an enormous difference. We also discuss the role behavioural profiling can play in matching the right VA with the right business owner and the work they’ll be doing. We also unpack some of the traps to watch for when choosing a VA provider. From incredibly cheap hourly rates and questionable claims about ethical employment practices to large upfront fees and lengthy contracts, we discuss why doing your research matters. If you’ve been asking yourself, “How do I choose an offshore virtual assistant without getting locked into the wrong arrangement?”, this episode will give you some practical things to consider. Finally, we look at the rapidly changing relationship between virtual assistants and AI. With AI agents already replacing some tasks traditionally performed by people, we discuss why AI doesn’t necessarily mean the end of virtual assistance. Instead, the skills VAs need are likely to evolve, with people increasingly using AI and automation to create efficiencies within Australian small business. The challenge is making sure those efficiencies don’t come at the expense of appropriate oversight, risk management or the people within your business. Key Takeaways: Learn about the culture of the country you’re outsourcing to, particularly how cultural differences can influence communication, feedback and whether someone feels comfortable saying they don’t understand. Understand your own leadership and communication style before choosing a VA, and consider whether their behavioural profile suits both you and the tasks you need completed. Don’t automatically choose the cheapest VA provider. Understand how the VA is being paid, what support and matching processes are provided, and whether the arrangement aligns with your expectations around ethical outsourcing. Be cautious about large upfront engagement fees and long-term contracts, particularly if you haven’t had an opportunity to properly assess whether the VA and service model are right for your business. Think strategically about AI rather than assuming it should replace people. AI and virtual assistants can work together to create efficiencies, but businesses still need human oversight and a clear understanding of the risks involved. To connect with Kristy and her team you can find their website here: https://virtualelves.com.au/ Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We’d love to hear from you! Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. In this episode we explore one of the biggest barriers to sustainable growth for an Australian small business: becoming the bottleneck in your own business. As business owners, it's easy to believe that staying involved in every decision protects quality and customer service, but over time it can actually limit growth, create frustration for your team, and leave you working longer hours than ever. We discuss the warning signs that suggest you've become the bottleneck and why recognising them early is critical if you want to build a business that can grow beyond your own capacity. We unpack the common habits that create bottlenecks, including struggling to delegate, insisting on approving every decision, and unintentionally training your team to rely on you for everything. We also discuss why many Australian small business owners delay hiring or outsourcing for too long, the impact of previous bad hiring experiences, and how introducing buffer roles, virtual assistants, team leaders or outsourced support can remove pressure while allowing the business to continue delivering excellent customer service. Have you ever found yourself asking, "Why is my business growing but I still feel busier than ever?" If so, this episode is for you. We share practical strategies to help you identify where your time is really being spent, decide which responsibilities only you should retain, and confidently delegate the rest. The goal isn't to remove yourself from your business altogether, but to ensure you're focusing on the work that creates the greatest value while building a business that isn't limited by the number of hours you can personally work. Key Takeaways: Learn how to identify the warning signs that you've become the bottleneck in your business. Discover why control, delayed delegation and constant sign-off can unintentionally slow business growth. Understand how introducing buffer roles, virtual assistants or outsourced support can free up your time. Learn why hiring or outsourcing earlier can support sustainable business growth without immediately committing to full-time employees. Discover how choosing your ideal role in the business helps create greater freedom while continuing to deliver exceptional customer service. Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We'd love to hear from you! Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. If you've ever wondered whether entering business awards is worth the time, effort and investment, this episode is for you. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. Business awards can be a powerful way to build credibility, generate publicity and open doors for your Australian small business, but not every award is worth entering. In this episode we explore the real value of business awards, the different types of awards available, and how to determine whether they're the right fit for your business growth strategy. We share our own experiences of entering, winning and learning from business awards over the years, including the networking opportunities, marketing benefits and business credibility that can come from recognised and respected awards. We also discuss the importance of choosing awards with genuine merit, rather than those that simply require you to pay for recognition, and why the application process itself can be a valuable business exercise. If you've been asking yourself "Should I enter business awards, and how do I choose the right ones?" this episode will help you understand what to look for, how to prepare a strong application, and how business awards can become part of your broader PR and marketing strategy for your Australian small business. Key Takeaways: How to decide whether business awards are the right opportunity for your business. The difference between credible awards and "pay-to-play" award programs. Why respected business awards can strengthen your marketing, reputation and customer trust. How the application process can help you identify strengths and gaps within your business. Practical tips for selecting the right award categories and preparing a compelling submission. Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We'd love to hear from you! Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. If you've ever wondered whether public relations (PR) is only for big brands or businesses in crisis, this episode is for you. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. In this episode we explore what PR really is, why it matters for Australian small business owners, and how it can become a powerful part of your marketing strategy. We unpack the common misconceptions around PR and explain why earning media coverage, podcast interviews and industry recognition can help you build credibility, reach new audiences and grow your influence without relying solely on paid advertising. We discuss how PR fits into your broader marketing ecosystem, why it works best alongside your existing content and social media efforts, and how strategic media opportunities can improve your authority with both search engines and AI tools. We also share practical advice on choosing the right media outlets, crafting effective pitches, leveraging industry awards, and making the most of every PR opportunity you earn. Have you been asking yourself how you can stand out in a crowded market without spending a fortune on advertising? This episode answers that question by showing how Australian small business owners can use thoughtful, targeted PR to compete with much larger businesses, build trust faster, and position themselves as recognised experts in their field. Our special guest is Erin Huckle, founder of Chuckle Communications, a boutique PR consultancy helping small businesses and thought leaders increase their visibility through strategic public relations. Erin specialises in earned media, podcast opportunities and personal brand building. Connect with Erin via her website at https://chucklecommunications.com or on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinhuckle-pr-and-copywriting/ and be sure to check out her podcast, PR with Purpose , for practical PR advice and strategies. Key Takeaways: Understand what public relations is and how earned media differs from paid advertising. Learn why PR is an essential part of the marketing mix for Australian small business owners. Discover how strategic PR builds credibility, authority and trust with customers, search engines and AI platforms. Find out how to pitch yourself effectively to journalists and podcast hosts by making their job easier. Explore practical ways to maximise every PR opportunity through amplification, website credibility and ongoing marketing. Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We'd love to hear from you! Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. If you've been wondering how to reset your Australian small business for a stronger second half of the year, this episode is for you. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. The start of a new financial year is the perfect opportunity to pause, reflect and reset. In this episode we share our practical five-point mid-year reset framework to help Australian small business owners review what's working, identify what's no longer serving the business, and create a clear plan for the months ahead. Whether you're feeling energised or simply trying to keep up, this conversation will help you take stock and move forward with purpose. We explore five key areas every Australian small business owner should review at this time of year: your numbers, your goals, your team, your operations, and yourself as the business owner. We discuss reviewing your profit and loss, budgeting for the year ahead, improving cash flow, reassessing marketing spend, and ensuring your financial decisions are based on real data rather than wishful thinking. We also look at why your business goals should continue to align with your personal goals, how to reconnect and re-engage your team, and why now is the time to review systems, processes and the role AI can play in improving operational efficiency. Have you been asking yourself, "How do I know if my business is still on the right track halfway through the year?" We answer that question by sharing practical strategies you can implement immediately, including reviewing supplier terms, reassessing your ideal clients, identifying operational improvements, preparing for upcoming changes such as Payday Super, and ensuring your business remains sustainable without sacrificing your own wellbeing. Sometimes the biggest improvements come not from making massive changes, but from making intentional adjustments in the areas that matter most. Key Takeaways: Review your financial performance, profit and loss, cash flow and budget before making decisions for the new financial year. Reassess your business goals to ensure they remain realistic, achievable and aligned with your personal priorities. Reconnect with your team by communicating updated goals, reviewing team structure and preparing for upcoming workplace changes such as Payday Super. Audit your business operations by reviewing systems, subscriptions, marketing activities, processes and opportunities to use AI more effectively. Prioritise your own wellbeing by creating sustainable routines that support you as the business owner, because a healthy business starts with a healthy leader. Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We'd love to hear from you! Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. If you're wondering how to respond to the rising cost of running an Australian small business without simply increasing your prices, this episode is for you. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. The cost of doing business continues to rise for Australian small business owners. From software subscriptions and supplier price increases to wage growth, superannuation changes and new compliance obligations, business owners are feeling the pressure from every direction. In this episode, we explore practical pricing strategies that can help protect profitability while continuing to deliver value to your customers. We discuss why regularly reviewing your pricing should become part of your annual business planning, rather than something that only happens when costs become unsustainable. We also explore alternative approaches including restructuring your offers, reviewing your service model, identifying areas of over-servicing, streamlining processes and understanding which parts of your customer experience truly add value. If you're managing Australian small business finance, these strategies can help improve profitability without compromising customer relationships. If you've been asking yourself, "How do I increase my prices without losing customers?" or "What can I do if I can't increase my prices?", this episode provides practical strategies to help you make confident decisions. We also share tips on communicating pricing changes effectively, explaining the value you provide, preparing for customer questions and approaching price increases with confidence rather than apology. Key Takeaways: Review your pricing strategy every year instead of waiting several years between price increases. Consider restructuring your products or services to better balance value, profitability and customer expectations. Identify areas of over-servicing and remove activities that customers don't actually value. Review your business processes and eliminate unnecessary steps that increase your cost of delivery. Communicate price increases confidently by focusing on the value you provide and preparing for customer questions in advance. Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We'd love to hear from you! Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. If you've ever wondered how to become a more confident speaker, pitch your business more effectively, or handle media interviews with confidence, this episode is for you. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. In this episode we are joined by Theresa Miller, media and presentation skills trainer, former television journalist, and author of Speak Up: How to Be a Successful Presenter and Media Spokesperson . We explore why communication is one of the most valuable skills an Australian small business owner can develop, whether you're speaking to a potential client, presenting to your team, appearing on a podcast, or responding to media enquiries. We discuss the common challenges business owners face when talking about their work, including the "curse of knowledge" that can make it difficult to explain what you do in a clear and relatable way. We also unpack the importance of using plain English, focusing on the benefits you deliver for customers, and tailoring your message to suit your audience. If you've been asking yourself, "How do I explain what my business does in a way that people actually understand?", this episode provides practical answers. We share simple communication frameworks that can help you structure presentations, sales conversations, networking discussions, media interviews, and business pitches so your message is memorable and actionable. Our guest, Theresa Miller, is an experienced media and presentation skills trainer who previously worked as a television journalist in Australia, London and Switzerland. She now helps business owners, executives, academics and industry experts communicate with confidence and impact. Theresa is also the author of Speak Up: How to Be a Successful Presenter and Media Spokesperson . Key Takeaways: Why public speaking is about serving others, not promoting yourself. How to create a clear and compelling elevator pitch focused on customer outcomes. The importance of removing jargon and communicating in plain English. Practical communication frameworks such as Point-Reason-Example-So What (PRES) to structure presentations and pitches. Why researching your audience and understanding their challenges can dramatically improve your chances of success. How authentic, in-person communication is becoming increasingly valuable in an age of AI-generated content and misinformation. Connect with Theresa Miller: Website: https://www.theresamiller.com.au/ Grab your copy of: Speak Up: How to Be a Successful Presenter and Media Spokesperson https://www.theresamiller.com.au/books You can check our Theresa’s course here: https://www.theresamiller.com.au/online-course Connect with Theresa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresa-miller-tm-media/ Connect with Theresa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tm_mediatrainer/ Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. If you've ever wondered how to maximise your tax position before 30 June and set your business up for a stronger financial year ahead, this episode is for you. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. As the end of financial year approaches, many Australian small business owners focus on compliance tasks and tax returns, but there is also an opportunity to take a strategic approach to improving business performance. In this episode, we discuss the practical steps business owners can take before 30 June to ensure they are making informed financial decisions and preparing for a successful year ahead. We explore a range of end-of-financial-year strategies including reconciling accounts, understanding your profit position, reviewing business structures, making concessional superannuation contributions, identifying bad debts, prepaying eligible expenses, and improving debtor collections. We also discuss the importance of working closely with your accountant to understand the most appropriate tax planning opportunities for your specific circumstances. If you've been asking yourself, "What should I be doing before 30 June to reduce stress, improve cash flow, and make better financial decisions for my business?", this episode provides a practical roadmap. We also discuss how Australian small business owners can use the new financial year as a planning milestone by reviewing pricing, preparing cash flow forecasts, creating budgets, evaluating subscriptions and software expenses, and identifying opportunities to improve business performance over the next 12 months. We touch on upcoming changes such as payday super obligations and anti-money laundering reforms that may impact some professional service businesses. Key Takeaways: Ensure your accounts are fully reconciled and up to date before 30 June so you have an accurate understanding of your profit position. Speak with your accountant about tax planning opportunities, including concessional superannuation contributions and business structure considerations. Review outstanding debtors, write off bad debts where appropriate, and improve collections to strengthen cash flow. Consider prepaying eligible expenses such as insurance, subscriptions, training, and professional services where appropriate. Prepare a cash flow forecast and budget for the new financial year, particularly with upcoming payroll and superannuation changes. Review pricing, subscriptions, software tools, and operational expenses to identify opportunities for improved profitability. Use the start of the new financial year as an opportunity to plan staffing, marketing, growth initiatives, and business priorities. Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. If you're wondering what Fair Work changes are coming from 1 July and how they will impact your Australian small business, this episode is for you. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. In this episode we discuss the key Fair Work and workplace compliance updates that Australian small business owners need to be aware of as the new financial year approaches. With changes to minimum wages, Modern Award rates, superannuation obligations and parental leave provisions, now is the time to ensure your business is prepared and compliant. We unpack the Fair Work Commission's latest decision to increase the National Minimum Wage and Modern Award minimum rates, and what those changes mean for employers across Australia. We also explore the broader impact these increases may have on staffing costs, employee expectations around pay rises, and the importance of reviewing your pricing strategy to account for rising employment costs. If you've been asking yourself, "What do I need to do before 1 July to stay compliant with Australian employment law and the Fair Work Act?" this episode provides a practical overview of the key actions to take now. We also discuss the move to Payday Super, changes to the government-funded Parental Leave Pay Scheme, and some of the workplace law myths and scare campaigns currently circulating in the market. As discussed in the episode, a free annual compliance webinar will be held to help employers understand the changes and prepare their businesses for the new financial year. This is an excellent opportunity for Australian small business owners to stay informed and reduce compliance risks. Key Takeaways: Modern Award minimum rates of pay will increase by 4.75% from 1 July. The National Minimum Wage will increase to $26.44 per hour or $1,004.90 per week. Payday Super is being introduced, requiring superannuation contributions to be paid much more frequently and within strict timeframes. The Parental Leave Pay Scheme is expanding to 130 days (26 weeks) for eligible parents. Rising employment costs should prompt business owners to review budgets, cash flow forecasts and pricing strategies. Not every workplace law change being advertised is actually new, making it important to seek accurate advice and information. Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. If you’ve ever wondered how to grow a service-based side business without burning out, getting stuck in perfectionism, or feeling overwhelmed by marketing and money, this episode is for you. Hello and welcome to this week's episode of The Australian Small Business Show. In this episode we welcome back returning guest Shandra Moran from The Transit Lounge to unpack the five pillars she believes every Australian small business owner needs to build a sustainable and successful service-based business. Drawing on more than a decade of business experience, we explore the common mistakes side business owners make, the steep learning curve of entrepreneurship, and why sustainable growth requires more than simply having a great idea. We dive into the five M’s framework: Method, Marketing, Money, Mindset and Momentum. We discuss why systems and processes matter, why marketing needs to be a deliberate strategy rather than a “hope” strategy, and why understanding your numbers is essential for long-term success in Australian small business. We also explore the emotional relationship many business owners have with money, why pricing can feel uncomfortable, and how mindset can either accelerate or handbrake your growth. If you’ve been asking yourself how to stop overthinking and finally launch your business idea, this episode will give you practical insight into moving past perfectionism and building momentum. We also discuss resilience in business, dealing with disappointment when launches don’t go to plan, and why measuring results and tracking data helps business owners make more informed decisions instead of reacting emotionally. About Shandra Moran: Our guest for this episode is Shandra Moran, founder of The Transit Lounge. Shandra works with women who have service-based side businesses and helps them transition those businesses into sustainable long-term ventures through coaching, workshops and mentoring programs. Before creating the Transit Lounge, Shandra had an eclectic career as… • A national multi-award winning Promotions & Marketing Director in the dynamic Radio industry • Talent Manager for the Merrick & Rosso Show on Foxtel • Head of People & Operations at a human performance consultancy – including managing one of the largest organisational culture change programs ever undertaken in Australia She is also a qualified Executive, Business and Results coach, has completed the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction [MBSR] program, is an accredited international Money Breakthrough Coach, Podcast Host and co author of international best selling book Elevate Your Success . Shandra believes in lifelong learning, applying what I learn and sharing it with others so they can apply it too. I want to help as many people as possible to earn great money doing what they love, without burning out on the way. Shandra wants to help as many people as possible to create that world, by helping them to earn great money, doing what they love, without burning out on the way. If you’d like to connect with Shandra, you can visit her website here: https://thetransitlounge.com/ You can connect with her on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shandramoran/ Or on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thetransitlounge Key Takeaways: Why the five pillars of sustainable business growth are Method, Marketing, Money, Mindset and Momentum The importance of having systems and processes in place before scaling your business Why marketing should be a deliberate lead generation activity, not a passive strategy How mindset and perfectionism can stop Australian small business owners from launching or growing Why measuring results and tracking data helps you make better business decisions The importance of building financial buffers so every launch or promotion doesn’t feel “make or break” Why resilience and adaptability are essential for long-term small business success Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. Hello and welcome to this weeks episode of The Australian Small Business Show! In this episode we’re unpacking the recent Federal Budget and what it could mean for Australian small business owners, both in business and personally. We discuss some of the key announcements that have business owners talking, including the proposed changes to Capital Gains Tax, trust structures, instant asset write-offs and tax loss carry back measures. We also explore how these proposed changes may impact investment strategies, property ownership, entrepreneurship and future business planning. We share our thoughts on how younger Australians are currently entering the property market, why many business owners are concerned about the direction of the budget, and what these changes could mean for business growth and long-term wealth creation. In this episode we also touch on the practical realities facing small businesses right now, including cash flow pressures, superannuation changes coming into effect, and the increasing compliance obligations for accountants, lawyers and other professional service providers. We discuss the upcoming payday super changes, anti-money laundering obligations, and why many businesses should prepare for increasing professional service costs over the next financial year. Importantly, whilst we share our thoughts and opinions on the budget announcements, we also strongly encourage business owners to seek personalised advice from their accountant, financial adviser or legal professional before making any decisions. As always, our goal is to help simplify complex business topics and start important conversations for Australian small business owners. Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Join the waitlist for The Australian Small Business Show Club by clicking here. Hello and welcome to this weeks episode of The Australian Small Business Show! Today we’re celebrating a huge milestone with our 100th episode, and we couldn’t think of a better way to mark the occasion than by sharing some very exciting news with you all. In this episode we reflect on the journey to 100 episodes, why we started the podcast in the first place, and the conversations we’ve been having behind the scenes about small business for years. We discuss the importance of practical, actionable advice for business owners, why finding the right support network matters so much, and the realities of running a business when it can sometimes feel isolating and overwhelming. We also officially announce the launch of The Australian Small Business Show Club. We unpack why we decided to create this community, what has been missing from traditional networking groups, and why connection without pressure or forced referrals is so important. We discuss the challenges small business owners face in finding genuine support, the value of surrounding yourself with like-minded business owners, and how we hope the club will become an affordable and supportive space for Australian small business owners to connect, learn and grow together. We also share details about the founding member launch, why we’re intentionally building the club alongside our members, and what you can expect when the doors officially open. If you’d like to join the waitlist and be part of this exciting next chapter, head over to the website and sign up now. We are incredibly grateful to every listener, guest and supporter who has been part of these first 100 episodes, and we can’t wait to share the next 100 with you. Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Hello and welcome to this weeks episode of The Australian Small Business Show! In this episode we are joined by special guest Tracey Mylecharane from TM Legal Atelier to unpack why small businesses actually need better legal documents than big business. We discuss the common misconception that small businesses can “keep things simple” when it comes to contracts and legal protections, and why that mindset can create enormous risk for business owners. We dive into the real reasons strong legal foundations matter, including protecting your cash flow, avoiding disputes, setting clear expectations with clients, and safeguarding the future of your business. We also discuss why hiring friends or working with people you know can actually increase risk, and how properly drafted agreements can help preserve both the business relationship and the personal relationship. Another key topic we explore is the danger of relying on generic templates or AI generated contracts. In this conversation we unpack why “one size fits all” documents often fail small business owners, the hidden risks of DIY legal documents, and why investing in tailored agreements can save significant time, money and stress down the track. If you’d like to connect with Tracey, you can visit her website here: TM Legal Atelier Website or connect with her on Instagram here: TM Legal Atelier Instagram Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.

Hello and welcome to this weeks episode of The Australian Small Business Show! In this episode we dive into the rapid rise of AI and why, despite all the benefits, there are some real risks small business owners need to be aware of. We explore how easy it is to get caught up in the time saving and efficiency gains, and why that can sometimes lead to using AI in areas where it simply should not be trusted. From hallucinations to confidently incorrect answers, we unpack why AI can sound convincing even when it is completely wrong. We also discuss the high risk areas where using AI can create serious consequences for your business. This includes legal advice, financial reporting, HR decisions and contracts, where getting it wrong is not just inconvenient but potentially very costly. We share real examples and scenarios where relying on AI could land you in trouble, and why the responsibility always sits with you as the business owner, not the technology. Another key focus in this episode is the importance of critical thinking, human oversight and knowing when to seek expert advice. We talk about the hidden risks around data security, AI agents and team usage, and why having a clear AI policy in your business is becoming essential. We also reflect on when using AI can actually cost you more time rather than save it, especially when you factor in reviewing and correcting its output. Finally, we wrap up with practical guidance on how to approach AI in your business. We are not saying do not use it, because there are incredible benefits, but we are encouraging you to be intentional, cautious and clear on where it fits. If the stakes are high, it is simply not worth the risk. Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances. Intro Music Credit: Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/funky-junk License code: 5IA1B1XF5NGPXI2T

Hello and welcome to this weeks episode of The Australian Small Business Show! In this episode we dive into the world of grants for small business owners with Australia’s own Grant Master, Prue Saxby. We explore what grants actually are, how they work and why so many small business owners either overlook them or put them in the too hard basket. If you’ve ever wondered whether grants are relevant to your business, this episode is a great place to start. We discuss where to find grants, how often they become available and why timing is so important when it comes to applying. One of the key takeaways we unpack is the importance of being prepared before a grant opens, including having a clear plan and understanding what you would actually use the funding for. We also talk about the concept of alignment and why your application needs to clearly match the purpose of the grant. In this episode we also highlight some of the common mistakes small business owners make when applying for grants, including not properly checking eligibility, misunderstanding the criteria and rushing applications without the right information or data. We explore how thinking beyond your business and considering the broader impact can significantly strengthen your application. Finally, we touch on the value of building momentum with grants and why getting expert guidance can make a real difference. If grants are something you’ve been curious about, this episode will give you the clarity and direction you need to start exploring the opportunities available to your business. To connect with Prue, sign up for her newsletter and grant list here: www.indigogold.com.au Or join her Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/grantwritingacademy Connect with Us: If you're an Australian Small Business Owner, we'd love to connect with you on socials. You can give our Facebook Page a like here: https://www.facebook.com/theaustraliansmallbusinessshow Or follow us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/aussmallbizshow/ We’d love to hear from you! Subscribe to The Australian Small Business Show newsletter by visiting our website here: https://www.theaustraliansmallbusinessshow.com.au/ Disclaimer: The information shared on The Australian Small Business Show is general in nature and does not constitute professional advice, legal or otherwise. We recommend consulting with your advisors on your specific circumstances.