Episodes

  • 12.Building a Powerful Business Network with Tiffany Anderson

    12.Building a Powerful Business Network with Tiffany Anderson
    Jul 8 2025
    Today, Sean engages in a discussion with Tiffany Anderson, a community engagement strategist and networking expert, focusing on the art of effective networking for early-stage entrepreneurs. Tiffany shares valuable insights on how to approach networking with a strategic mindset, emphasising the importance of building genuine connections rather than merely transactional interactions. She discusses the significance of preparation before attending networking events, the power of shared values in fostering relationships, and the concept of leaving a positive "echo" that enhances one's personal brand. KEY TAKEAWAYS Simply showing up to networking events is not enough. Entrepreneurs need to approach networking with a clear strategy, treating it with the same importance as other business activities. Successful networking is about making meaningful connections rather than just transactional interactions. Establishing rapport and shared values can lead to long-term relationships that benefit both parties. Before attending an event, do your research on the organisation and its members. Prepare a few key points about yourself and questions to engage others, which can help ease nerves and facilitate conversations. The impression you leave on others is crucial. Your reputation and the way people talk about you after the event can significantly impact your networking success. Aim to create a positive echo that resonates beyond the initial meeting. Not every connection will be an ideal fit, but every interaction can lead to new opportunities. If a conversation doesn’t align with your current goals, consider how you can connect that person with someone else in your network, keeping the door open for future possibilities. BEST MOMENTS "Showing up is no longer the end goal. Showing up is step one in a list of best practices." "It's not about only the people in the room. It's about every single person that they're connected to." "If you don't know what your values are as a business, you need to start there." "The echo that you leave behind, and the way that people talk about you, matters." "If you're treating networking like an extra thing, that's exactly what it's going to be." HOST BIO Meet Your Host: Sean O’Hara, MBA – Entrepreneur, Sales Strategist, and Relentless Business Optimist. With over 20 years in the entrepreneurial trenches—guiding scrappy startups and Fortune 1000 giants alike—Sean brings a rare mix of strategic insight and real-world experience to every conversation. Known for his sharp sales acumen and down-to-earth style, he doesn’t just talk business—he lives it. Sean’s superpower? Asking the right questions, then stepping back to let the wisdom flow. His curiosity-driven interview style unlocks actionable insights, powerful stories, and the kind of truth today’s entrepreneurs actually need. If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, Sean’s the guide you’ll want in your corner. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    53 mins
  • 11. Ed Gillcrist, USMC Helicopter Pilot and Co-Founder. Align with the Problems that Need Solving.

    11. Ed Gillcrist, USMC Helicopter Pilot and Co-Founder. Align with the Problems that Need Solving.
    Jun 30 2025
    Sean sits down with Ed Gillcrist, a U.S. Marine and co-founder of the Shackleton Group, a leadership and organisational development firm. Ed shares his journey from being a Marine helicopter pilot to establishing a successful consulting business over two decades ago. He discusses the importance of leveraging existing networks, adapting business models to meet market needs, and the critical role of hiring the right people. Ed emphasises the necessity of having difficult conversations, including letting go of employees who don't fit, to ensure the overall health of the organisation. KEY TAKEAWAYS Building a business is often more effective when you focus on your existing relationships and networks. This allows you to gain insights into the specific challenges potential clients face, enabling you to tailor your solutions to meet their needs. Successful entrepreneurs must be willing to pivot their business model based on market demands. Initially focusing on training systems, the Shackleton Group shifted to organisational development because that was what their network needed. When building a team, prioritise hiring individuals you trust and who demonstrate the potential to grow within the organisation. Establish clear criteria for hiring and ensure that the interview process is genuine and relevant to the roles being filled. Effective leadership involves not only rewarding good performance but also holding team members accountable. This includes making tough decisions, such as letting go of employees who are not a good fit for the organisation, to ensure the overall health of the team. In both military and business environments, sound judgment is crucial. While systems and procedures are important, they should never override the need for critical thinking and adaptability in complex situations. BEST MOMENTS "We unfortunately stuck our hand in the blender a few times over the years and hopefully we can share some of this stuff and it helps people realise, ouch, that hurts, don't need to go there." "By focusing on your existing network, you have more access to the problems and the challenges that they're specifically facing." "Hire people you'll trust. And then trust the people you hire." "Sometimes you gotta cut a man loose. You have to be willing to look at people and fire them." "None of the procedures or statements or steps in this book is intended to ever usurp good judgment and good thinking." HOST BIO Meet Your Host: Sean O’Hara, MBA – Entrepreneur, Sales Strategist, and Relentless Business Optimist. With over 20 years in the entrepreneurial trenches—guiding scrappy startups and Fortune 1000 giants alike—Sean brings a rare mix of strategic insight and real-world experience to every conversation. Known for his sharp sales acumen and down-to-earth style, he doesn’t just talk business—he lives it. Sean’s superpower? Asking the right questions, then stepping back to let the wisdom flow. His curiosity-driven interview style unlocks actionable insights, powerful stories, and the kind of truth today’s entrepreneurs actually need. If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, Sean’s the guide you’ll want in your corner. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • 10. Paolo Narciso. Profitably Tackling the "Most Wicked" Problems.

    10. Paolo Narciso. Profitably Tackling the "Most Wicked" Problems.
    Jun 23 2025
    In today's episode, Sean sits down for a conversation with Paulo Narciso, a seasoned entrepreneur and author of "The Founder's Journey." Paulo shares his insights on the importance of focusing on sustainability over scalability for early-stage entrepreneurs, emphasising the need for a mindset shift from founder to CEO as businesses grow. He discusses his role as a Build Fellow at Stand Together Ventures Lab, where he tackles some of society's most pressing issues, particularly in healthcare. KEY TAKEAWAYS Founders should prioritise the sustainability of their business rather than merely aiming for rapid scalability. This involves ensuring that the organisation can endure over time while maintaining its culture and achieving its original vision. Transitioning from a founder to a CEO requires a significant shift in mindset. Founders must acknowledge their new responsibilities and develop the necessary skills, both hard and soft, to lead an organisation effectively. Founders should engage in self-reflection to understand their motivations for growth and the changes they need to make. This internal change is crucial for external success and helps in building a sustainable organisation. It is essential to continuously monitor the effectiveness of strategies and be willing to adapt them based on real-time feedback. Regular evaluation helps ensure that the organisation is on the right path to achieving its objectives. As organisations grow, founders must learn to delegate responsibilities and trust their team members. This involves hiring individuals with diverse skills and allowing them to contribute in ways that enhance the overall success of the business. BEST MOMENTS "The moment you recognise that need for growth is the moment of self-reflection." "Sustainability is about how do I create that future, not scaling." "If the ladder is not leaning against the right wall, every step just gets you to the wrong place faster." "The most successful founders are the ones that scratch their own back." "Change doesn't happen if somebody doesn't internalise it." HOST BIO Meet Your Host: Sean O’Hara, MBA – Entrepreneur, Sales Strategist, and Relentless Business Optimist. With over 20 years in the entrepreneurial trenches—guiding scrappy startups and Fortune 1000 giants alike—Sean brings a rare mix of strategic insight and real-world experience to every conversation. Known for his sharp sales acumen and down-to-earth style, he doesn’t just talk business—he lives it. Sean’s superpower? Asking the right questions, then stepping back to let the wisdom flow. His curiosity-driven interview style unlocks actionable insights, powerful stories, and the kind of truth today’s entrepreneurs actually need. If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, Sean’s the guide you’ll want in your corner. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    45 mins
  • 9. Lee Benson. 1000 Rock Gigs, 8 Start-ups, and a 9-Figure Exit

    9. Lee Benson. 1000 Rock Gigs, 8 Start-ups, and a 9-Figure Exit
    Jun 17 2025
    In this episode, Sean interviews Lee Benson, an accomplished entrepreneur and author of the best-selling book "Your Most Important Number." With a remarkable track record as an eight-time founder and seven successful exits, Lee shares his journey from being a high school cook to building a thriving aerospace business that saved customers over $200 million. Their conversation delves into the concept of value creation, emphasising the importance of positive emotional energy and connectedness in driving business success. KEY TAKEAWAYS Emphasising a value creation mindset is crucial for entrepreneurs. It's not just about making money; it's about creating net positive value for customers and the community, which leads to long-term success. Positive emotional energy is considered the scarcest commodity. Leaders should focus on creating an energising environment that fosters collaboration and engagement among team members, which ultimately drives better business outcomes. To build a strong foundation for a business, it's essential to operationalise value creation by connecting culture to measurable outcomes. Each team should have a "most important number" that reflects the value they create, guiding their actions and decisions. Viewing challenges as healthy struggles is vital for personal and professional growth. Entrepreneurs should embrace the difficulties of building a business as opportunities to develop character and capabilities. Balancing work and personal life is about blending them into one cohesive experience. Entrepreneurs should prioritise their passions and maintain a holistic view, ensuring that they create value across material, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. BEST MOMENTS "I always felt more secure running my own thing. I can influence a lot of stuff and I have to keep creating more and more value for our customers." "Positive emotional energy to me is the scarcest commodity on the planet. I would rather live only half as long on a scale from one to ten on a nine or ten." "It sounds like you developed some fundamental business disciplines with the band. This may have been the beginning of your understanding of the value of positive emotional energy." "If you are really trying to create value and solving for a real problem in the world, you're just going to win." "You have to operationalise value creation. My goal is always to connect culture to creating value." HOST BIO Meet Your Host: Sean O’Hara, MBA – Entrepreneur, Sales Strategist, and Relentless Business Optimist. With over 20 years in the entrepreneurial trenches—guiding scrappy startups and Fortune 1000 giants alike—Sean brings a rare mix of strategic insight and real-world experience to every conversation. Known for his sharp sales acumen and down-to-earth style, he doesn’t just talk business—he lives it. Sean’s superpower? Asking the right questions, then stepping back to let the wisdom flow. His curiosity-driven interview style unlocks actionable insights, powerful stories, and the kind of truth today’s entrepreneurs actually need. If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, Sean’s the guide you’ll want in your corner. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    49 mins
  • 8. Bruce Smith. CFO Insights. Making Better Informed Decisions & Watching Cash Flow.

    8. Bruce Smith. CFO Insights. Making Better Informed Decisions & Watching Cash Flow.
    Jun 10 2025
    Today, Sean sits down with Bruce Smith, a seasoned C-suite executive with over 30 years of experience in leadership roles across start-ups and large corporations. Bruce shares invaluable insights on leveraging data and business analytics to create actionable plans, emphasising the importance of transforming raw data into meaningful information. He discusses strategies for entrepreneurs in the prelaunch phase to validate their business ideas and tailor their pitches for different types of investors. KEY TAKEAWAYS Entrepreneurs should not be intimidated by data; instead, they should focus on transforming raw data into actionable information that can guide decision-making and action plans. Before launching a business, entrepreneurs should conduct thorough research using articles and case studies to validate their business ideas and understand market expectations, avoiding confirmation bias. When seeking investment, it's crucial to tailor your business plan and pitch to the specific audience, whether it's venture capitalists, private equity, or state development corporations, as each has different risk tolerances and expectations. For start-ups, cash flow is vital. Entrepreneurs should prioritise understanding their cash flow statements to ensure they are generating cash from operations and using it effectively to sustain and grow the business. When assembling a leadership team, it's important to find individuals who share your values but can also challenge your ideas. This diversity in thought can lead to better decision-making and innovation. BEST MOMENTS "Don't be daunted by data, but really seek information because that's what you need in order to develop action plans and make decisions." "If the fundamentals of the business plan are not compelling, then the financial forecast data may not even matter." "You have to be obsessed with all results, not just financial results. Know about all your competition, all your stakeholders, employees, potential customers, vendors." "Manage your expectations of yourself before even thinking about managing the expectations of others." "There's always going to be something challenging you. And if you never walk away from it, it's always going to be there." HOST BIO Meet Your Host: Sean O’Hara, MBA – Entrepreneur, Sales Strategist, and Relentless Business Optimist. With over 20 years in the entrepreneurial trenches—guiding scrappy startups and Fortune 1000 giants alike—Sean brings a rare mix of strategic insight and real-world experience to every conversation. Known for his sharp sales acumen and down-to-earth style, he doesn’t just talk business—he lives it. Sean’s superpower? Asking the right questions, then stepping back to let the wisdom flow. His curiosity-driven interview style unlocks actionable insights, powerful stories, and the kind of truth today’s entrepreneurs actually need. If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, Sean’s the guide you’ll want in your corner. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    44 mins
  • 7. Delaney Mikolaycik. Solopreneur Spotlight. Starting a Daycare with Grant Funds. Ultimate Mom WFH Biz.

    7. Delaney Mikolaycik. Solopreneur Spotlight. Starting a Daycare with Grant Funds. Ultimate Mom WFH Biz.
    Jun 3 2025
    In this episode, Sean sits down with Delaney Mikolaycik as she shares her inspiring journey as the owner of Little Wildflowers, an in-home childcare business. Delaney discusses her background in working with children and how the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic led her to discover grant funding opportunities for starting her day care. She provides valuable insights into the process of securing grants, navigating licensing requirements, and the importance of mentorship in the childcare industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Delaney discovered grant funding available due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed her to start her in-home childcare business without needing to invest personal funds. This funding was crucial for renovations and acquiring quality materials. Engaging with mentors and coaches from organizations like ECPAC provided essential guidance throughout the process of starting her day care. Their support helped navigate licensing requirements and improve the quality of care offered. Initially, traditional advertising methods did not yield results. Delaney found success by leveraging social media and local mom groups, demonstrating the importance of understanding the target audience for effective marketing. Operating the day care from home allows for flexibility, but Delaney emphasises the importance of creating boundaries between work and family time, ensuring that her children have dedicated playtime away from the day care environment. Running the day care not only provides financial support but also allows Delaney to stay home with her children and contribute positively to her community by offering a nurturing environment for other kids, highlighting the personal rewards of entrepreneurship. BEST MOMENTS "COVID had wiped like 30% of the childcare in Colorado." "It's definitely something worth looking into; if you can help certain underserved communities." "I think starting with trying to find a mentor is definitely step one, I would say." "I was so anxious about being like, Oh, he's gonna have to share me." "If you go online and look up the rules and regulations, it's so much paper." HOST BIO Meet Your Host: Sean O’Hara, MBA – Entrepreneur, Sales Strategist, and Relentless Business Optimist. With over 20 years in the entrepreneurial trenches—guiding scrappy startups and Fortune 1000 giants alike—Sean brings a rare mix of strategic insight and real-world experience to every conversation. Known for his sharp sales acumen and down-to-earth style, he doesn’t just talk business—he lives it. Sean’s superpower? Asking the right questions, then stepping back to let the wisdom flow. His curiosity-driven interview style unlocks actionable insights, powerful stories, and the kind of truth today’s entrepreneurs actually need. If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, Sean’s the guide you’ll want in your corner. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    40 mins
  • 6. Chris Adams. Winning Government Contracts, Protecting Quality of Life, and Exit Strategy

    6. Chris Adams. Winning Government Contracts, Protecting Quality of Life, and Exit Strategy
    May 27 2025
    In today's episode, Sean O'Hara sits down with Chris Adams, founder and CEO of Adams Engineering Solutions and Adams Business Coaching. Chris shares his journey from being a computer technician in the U.S. Air Force to launching his own successful IT services firm that supports federal agencies and private sector clients. He discusses the challenges he faced in building his business, the importance of mentorship, and the strategic decisions that led to his success, including the significance of having an exit strategy. KEY TAKEAWAYS Having a mentor can significantly impact an entrepreneur's journey. A mentor can provide guidance, inspiration, and valuable insights, but it's crucial to ensure that the mentor is actively engaged and aligned with the mentee's goals. Building relationships and partnerships with established companies is essential for new businesses looking to enter the government contracting space. Utilising certifications, such as being a service-disabled veteran-owned small business, can open doors to set-aside contracts. Effective time management is critical for entrepreneurs. Utilising a calendar to block out time for specific tasks, including personal and family time, helps maintain a balance between work and life, ensuring that business owners do not neglect their personal lives. Entrepreneurs should consider their exit strategy early in their business journey. Whether planning to sell the business or pass it on to family or employees, having a clear exit strategy can help maximise the business's value and ensure a smooth transition. Conducting a thorough analysis of a business's finances, operations, and customer relationships can reveal hidden revenue losses and inefficiencies. This analysis serves as a foundation for developing tailored strategies to improve business performance and profitability. BEST MOMENTS "The first five years are the most important years when you're starting a business." "It sounds like you had a mentor who, looking back, was great because he gave you the inspiration to take those first steps." "You don't fail until you quit. You might have some setbacks, but you didn't fail until you quit." "A lot of times when you're a business starting out, the government wants you to have past performance." "You have to have a dream board and say, 'Hey, if you want a summer home, that's what I'm working for.'" HOST BIO Meet Your Host: Sean O’Hara, MBA – Entrepreneur, Sales Strategist, and Relentless Business Optimist. With over 20 years in the entrepreneurial trenches—guiding scrappy startups and Fortune 1000 giants alike—Sean brings a rare mix of strategic insight and real-world experience to every conversation. Known for his sharp sales acumen and down-to-earth style, he doesn’t just talk business—he lives it. Sean’s superpower? Asking the right questions, then stepping back to let the wisdom flow. His curiosity-driven interview style unlocks actionable insights, powerful stories, and the kind of truth today’s entrepreneurs actually need. If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, Sean’s the guide you’ll want in your corner. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    44 mins
  • 1. Dan Gleissner. Employee to Co-Founder. Winning with Strong Industry Partnerships.

    1. Dan Gleissner. Employee to Co-Founder. Winning with Strong Industry Partnerships.
    May 20 2025
    In this episode, Sean sits down with Dan Gleissner, co-founder of Ally Medical Partners, a medical real estate brokerage firm in Colorado. Dan shares his journey from being a sales representative to launching his own business, emphasising the importance of leveraging relationships and experience. He discusses the unique challenges of tenant representation in the healthcare sector, the significance of strategic partnerships, and the hard truths of bootstrapping a business. KEY TAKEAWAYS The business focuses on representing healthcare providers in real estate transactions, ensuring they receive the best terms possible, as real estate is often their second highest fixed expense. Success in entrepreneurship heavily relies on the relationships and networks built over time. Trust and credibility established in previous roles can significantly impact the ability to attract clients in a new venture. Entrepreneurs should be prepared for financial uncertainties and the emotional toll of starting a business. It's essential to manage expectations and understand that initial struggles are part of the journey. Focusing on how to serve others and improve their quality of life can lead to long-term success. Building a reputation for helping clients and partners can create a strong referral network. Entrepreneurs must be willing to make practical decisions, such as adjusting personal expenses, to ensure the sustainability of their business. Ego should be set aside in favour of what is necessary for growth and success. BEST MOMENTS "You have to believe in yourself first and foremost. You try to leverage all those things, put them together and say that you're ready." "I think people set out on an entrepreneurial journey. It's harder than what people think." "In the dental community, we're incredibly blessed to have a great referral group. It's all about transparency and showing the numbers." "You have to rip that band-aid off and you just have to jump in. And again, it's not comfortable, but nothing ever is that's hard." "What is the value that you're bringing to somebody else? Service to others, really." HOST BIO Meet Your Host: Sean O’Hara, MBA – Entrepreneur, Sales Strategist, and Relentless Business Optimist. With over 20 years in the trenches—working with businesses ranging from scrappy startups to Fortune 1000 giants — Sean brings a rare mix of strategic insight and real-world experience to every conversation. Known for his sharp sales acumen and down-to-earth style, he doesn’t just talk business—he lives it and loves it! Sean’s superpower? Asking the right questions, then stepping back to let the wisdom flow. His curiosity-driven interview style unlocks actionable insights, powerful stories, and the kind of truth today’s entrepreneurs actually need. If you’re serious about building a business that lasts, Sean’s the guide you’ll want in your corner. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    41 mins