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The RL podcast series hosted by the Business Accelerator Team aims to offer practical advice and real-life examples of how you can Build a Better Business.

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Episode 116

Building a Profitable Business Using Sustainable Practices

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Quorum Park’s Sustainability & Community Director, Laura McGrath, about the easy ways you can improve your business’s sustainability and ESG impact.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Why you need to prepare now for future expectations around supply chain sustainability, how small businesses can easily improve their ESG impact.

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Episode 115

From Bankrupt to a 7 Figure Business – Sarah Pittendrigh’s Journey

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to business coach and entrepreneur Sarah Pittendrigh about her business journey and approach to overcoming personal setbacks.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to overcome your limiting beliefs, and how Sarah went from bankruptcy to a 7 figure multi-award winning entrepreneur.

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Episode 114

The Secrets of Effective Networking

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to executive director of BNI Northumbria, Alasdair Ross, about the secrets of effective networking.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How Alasdair was able to hold a 15-minute conversation with Richard Branson, and methods to help you maximise any networking opportunity.

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Episode 113

How Technology Is Ruling Your Life

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to the creator of Tech Rules®, Alexander Bell, about how technology is ruling your life and how to improve your relationship with technology.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Why Alexander posted his own phone in the mail back to himself, and how to prioritise real human interaction in a tech driven world.

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Episode 112

‘Gamify’ Your Business to Improve Customer Engagement

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about how to ‘gamify’ your business to improve both customer and staff engagement.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to use gamification with your team to improve productivity, and ways you could gamify your customer experience.

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Episode 111

Essential Legal Considerations for New Businesses

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Hugh Welch from Muckle (law firm) about the legal frameworks, agreements and contracts you will need if you’re starting in business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The legal frameworks new businesses need in place, and common mistakes businesses make with legal agreements and contracts.

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Episode 110

How to Use Social Media to Promote Your Business

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Helen Arnold from H Social about how to use social media to promote your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to use social media to attract your ideal clients, and how to build audience engagement.

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Episode 109

How to Maximise Your ROI with Staff Training

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to professional training provider John Paul Addison about the problems with modern professional training.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Why your team aren’t getting the most out of their training, and the importance of using tailored coaching over generic training programs

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Episode 108

Mastering Business Development and Marketing

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Bernard Savage from business development consultancy ‘Size 10½ Boots’ about how to approach business development.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to build customer relationships, and how to market to attract your ideal clients.

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Episode 107

From Ski Rep to Real Estate Consultant – Brian Welsh’s Business Journey

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Brian Welsh from OPRE Solutions about his journey through various industries to pioneering in the student accommodation sector.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How Brian developed himself through self-education and seizing diverse opportunities, strategies for managing teams and the importance of providing autonomy, and much more.

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Episode 106

Building Connections with Your Team – The Power of Empathy

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Paul Cheetham who returned to do another podcast on how to use empathy to build connections with your team.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The power of empathy in communication, and how to tailor your communication style to get the best out of your team.

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Episode 105

2023 Podcast Highlights

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle and Business Stuff Podcast editor James Bray about some of their favourite moments from the podcast in 2023.

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Episode 104

Lessons from building a property portfolio: Anthony Hunter’s story

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to property investor Anthony Hunter about some of the key turning points and lessons learnt on his business journey.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Transitioning from employment to owning a business, and growing a property portfolio while having a full-time job.

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Episode 103

The Importance of Knowing Your ‘Why’ In Business

In this episode, Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor talk about Simon Sinek’s ‘Golden Circle’ concept and the importance of knowing your ‘why’ in business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How a strong ‘why’ influences decision-making and leadership in business, and the role of your ‘why’ in shaping organisational culture and customer perception.

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Episode 102

Sourcing The Right Type of Finance For Your Business

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Jack Spoor talks to UBIO’s Chief Financial Officer, Bradley Channer, about sourcing the right type of finance for your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Finance options at different stages of your business, equity vs debt, and how R&D legislation may affect investor decisions.

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Episode 101

Understanding Business Hierarchies And Management Dynamics

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about understanding business hierarchies and management dynamics.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Internal company dynamics’ influence on customer experience, and the influence of leadership traits on company culture.

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Episode 100

Business Insurance – What You Need To Know To Protect Your Business

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Janet Fay from Coversure Insurance about the key types of insurance you may need for your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The dangers of not having the right insurances in place, and how insurance requirements change as a business grows.

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Episode 99

The Importance Of Good Corporate Governance

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about the importance of good corporate governance.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How good governance builds trust with stakeholders, and the impact of governance on long term business sustainability.

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Episode 98

Borrowing Money For Your Business – What Are The Options?

Description: In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Shaun Fooy from the British Business Bank about borrowing money for your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Different forms of funding available to businesses, and the relationship between business objectives and funding needs.

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Episode 97

How To Attract Top Talent In Competitive Markets

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to David Bolton from recruitment firm ‘Visuna’ about how to attract the right talent and remain competitive in the job market.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to make your job adverts attractive, and how to ensure cultural alignment between your firm and job candidates.

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Episode 96

How To Value Your Business

Description: In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to John Holbrook from Robson Laidler’s accounts team about company valuations and how to prepare your business for sale.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How and why you would get a business valuation, and how to prepare for a business sale.

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Episode 95

Will ESG Reporting Become Mandatory?

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about ESG, and the risks of not adopting ESG reporting practices in your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: What is ESG, how to measure it in your business, and how you may be caught out by not taking ESG seriously.

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Episode 94

How To Improve Your Communication And Message Delivery

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to public speaking and communication coach, Alfie Joey, about how to communicate effectively to make your business stand out.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to take advantage of a public speaking opportunity, and how to practice your message delivery.

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Episode 93

How To Choose A Legal Structure For Your Business

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about choosing a legal structure for your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include Pros and cons of the most common legal structures, Contractual agreements for partnerships and Ltd companies, Why you don’t need to be a Ltd company to look professional, Misconceptions and things businesses get wrong when choosing a structure and more…

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Episode 92

How To Create A Sales Strategy For Your Business

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jessica Williams from The Just Williams Sales Academy, about creating a sales and marketing strategy for your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include the difference between sales and marketing, why you must define your ideal client persona,  creating an upsell strategy, how to get more referrals, how to create sales targets for your team, and more…

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Episode 91

Pensions And Long Term Financial Planning – Where To Start

As part of Pension Awareness Week, Martin Wardle talks to financial planner Neil Cowie from Robson Laidler Wealth about pensions and long term financial planning.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Different financial products for long term planning, high risk vs lower risk investment portfolios, and more…

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Episode 90

The Common Pitfalls Of Payroll And HR (Part 2)

In this part 2 on the pitfalls of HR and payroll, Martin Wardle continues his discussion with Robson Laidler payroll manager, Michael Rivett, and Kathryn Rodgers from Face2Face HR.

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Episode 90

The Common Pitfalls Of Payroll And HR (Part 1)

In this episode, as part of National Payroll Week, Martin Wardle talks to Robson Laidler payroll manager, Michael Rivett, and Kathryn Rodgers from Face2Face HR.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Common HR and payroll mistakes when employing someone, what are the consequences of getting HR and payroll wrong, and how to make sure you get it right!

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Episode 89

Is Cash Really King?

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor answer the question: ‘Is cash king?’

Some things discussed in this episode include: Does profitability = cash in the bank, how to avoid cashflow issues, and why it is possible to hold too much cash.

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Episode 88

Discovering Your Motivations

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor discuss the topic of motivation.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to discover what motivates you, and how to utilise the motivations of your team to drive performance.

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Episode 87

How to maximise time efficiency in your business

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about how to maximise time efficiency in your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to decide what to delegate to your team, and how to identify inefficiencies.

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Episode 86

How To Successfully Structure Your Business

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about management structure within your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to optimise business structure for growth, and how to delegate effectively.

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Episode 85

Business Landscape Updates From A Chamber Of Commerce Executive

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to John McCabe from the North East England Chamber of Commerce about the current business landscape in the region.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Regional updates on the current business landscape, and how to become an attractive employer to improve recruitment.

Episode 84

How Trauma Affects Work And Business

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Gemma Graham talks to wellbeing coach Janet Ewans about how trauma and past experiences can affect people at work and in business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to overcome fear of certain business activities, and the importance of responding vs reacting.

Episode 83

Using The ‘OARBED’ Principle To Improve Organisational Culture

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about the ‘OARBED’ principle, and how it can be used to improve the culture within your organisation or team.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Why having accountability in place is good for culture, and the consequences of a blame and denial culture.

Episode 81

Will AI Replace My Job?

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about whether AI will replace our jobs!

Some things discussed in this episode include: What will happen if you don’t embrace AI, and how you can utilise AI for work efficiency.

Staff Retention Podcast

Episode 80

How To Stop Your Staff From Leaving

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor from Robson Laidler Accountants about staff retention.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to stop your staff from leaving, how to understand what motivates your team.

Business Stuff Podcast

Episode 79

The link between fitness and business

In this week’s episode, Martin Wardle talks to Joe Mclean from Body Hacks Fitness about link between fitness and business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How making excuses with personal fitness impacts your business, and how pushing yourself with fitness can help you achieve your business goals.

Business Management Podcast

Episode 78

How To Systemise Your Business

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to John Paul who founded The Castledene Group, about how to systemise your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The 5 areas to systemise in your business and why you should manage your team like you parent your kids.

Accountancy Podcast

Episode 76

Do you need an accountant?

In this week’s episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Kieran Reeve from Robson Laidler’s accounting team to answer the question ‘do you need an accountant?’

Some things discussed in this episode include: Why you don’t technically need an accountant, and what the benefits are of having one.

Increase Profit Podcast

Episode 75

5 Ways To Increase Profit In Your Business

In this week’s episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor from Robson Laidler’s Business Accelerator team about the 5 ways to increase profit in your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include:

A breakdown of the 5 areas to increase profit, how to effectively measure your lead to client conversion rates, and much more.

Rightsizing your business podcast

Episode 74

Rightsizing Your Business

In this week’s episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor from Robson Laidler’s Business Accelerator Team about rightsizing your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to eliminate waste in your business, and how to adjust pricing to help rightsize your business.

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Episode 73

The Link Between Golf And Business

In this week’s episode, Jack Spoor from Robson Laidler’s Business Accelerator Team talks to professional golfer Will Wilkinson about the link between golf and business.

Some things discussed in this episode include:

The mindset similarities between sport professionals and business owners, and how to use data to set improvement goals.

Starting a creative design agency podcast

Episode 72

Starting a Creative Design Agency – Adam Ball’s Journey

In this week’s episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Daniel Adamson from Robson Laidler’s Business Accelerator Team talks to Adam Ball about his journey of starting his creative design agency, Sandance Creative.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Taking the step from being employed to self-employed, the importance of saying no in business, and learning curves made from starting the business.

Scaling a company podcast

Episode 71

From Working For Free To Scaling A Company – Neil McGregor’s Journey

In this week’s episode, Martin Wardle talks to Neil McGregor from Neil McGregor Property Services about his journey growing and scaling a business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The challenges and phases a self-employed business owner goes through, and how to scale from a single person to a team of employees.

Growing and Scaling Cake Podcast

Episode 70

The Story Of Growing And Scaling Cake Stories

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Hannah Evans about the journey of starting and growing Cake Stories from a single location, to supplying products nationwide.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The process of turning a hobby into a business, and how to approach risk taking when starting a business.

What is ESG Podcast

Episode 69

What Is ESG, And How To Start On Your ESG Journey

In this week’s episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Jack Spoor talks to Nicki Clark from UMi about how to get started on your environmental, social and governance (ESG) journey.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The benefits of ESG for businesses, and some practical steps businesses can take to start their ESG journey.

Identifying and Preventing Personal Burnout podcast

Episode 68

How To Identify And Prevent Personal Burnout

In this week’s episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to business advisor Jack Spoor about personal burnout.

Some things discussed in this episode include: What causes burnout, how to identify burnout in yourself and in your team, and practical ways to prevent burnout.

Robson Laidler podcast

Episode 67

You Need More Than Just A Headshot

In this week’s episode, Martin Wardle talks to professional photographer Zoe Campbell about brand photography.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to use photography to build your brand image, and common mistakes people make with their brand photography.

Prevent self-sabotage podcast

Episode 66

Preventing Self-Sabotage – Part 2

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor expand on their previous episode about self-sabotage in more detail.

Some things discussed in this episode include:

How to actively spot your saboteurs when they arise and how you can stop your saboteurs from taking over your thinking.

Successfully acquire another business podcast

Episode 65

How To Successfully Acquire Another Business

Episode 65 of Business Stuff Podcast is now out. In this week’s episode, Martin Wardle talks to Ross Tomkins who has acquired multiple companies in the healthcare industry about how to successfully approach acquisitions.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to acquire another business successfully, and why acquisitions are a great method for growth.

Kind Currency Podcast

Episode 64

‘Kind Currency’ In Business

In this week’s episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Michelle Jones about her charity ‘Kind Currency’, and the benefits to businesses getting involved.

Some things discussed in this episode include: What is ‘Kind Currency’ and what are the benefits to businesses, and practical ways businesses can contribute to their local community.

Will ChatGPT replace jobs podcast

Episode 63

Will ChatGPT replace our jobs?

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Nick Wilson from Robson Laidler about the rise of artificial intelligence, and the impacts it could have on your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How likely is AI to replace our jobs, how to leverage AI in business, and what areas of business can’t be replaced with AI.

Apprenticeships not just for school leavers podcast

Episode 62

Apprenticeships Aren’t Just For School Leavers

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to apprenticeship training provider  Nick Atkinson about why apprenticeships are not just for school leavers. Some things discussed in this episode include: Why you should take advantage of the apprenticeships levy, and how to use apprenticeships to ensure your staff are strained to a standardised level.

Mortgages Podcast

Episode 61

All Things Mortgages

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to mortgage advisor Kirk Freeth about everything to do with mortgages.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The current market for getting a mortgage, buy to lets and what to do if you’ve got a mortgage.

Use copywriting to close more sales podcast

Episode 60

How To Use Copywriting To Close More Sales

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to professional copywriter Danika Stochosky about how to write copy to close more sales.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to optimise the copy on your landing pages for increasing sales, and why you should never assume what your customers pain points are.

Create a one page plan podcast

Episode 59

How To Create A One Page Plan

In this episode, Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor talk about how to create a one page plan to help you achieve your business and personal goals.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Why one page plans are effective, and how to use Pareto analysis to workout which goals to focus on.

2022 Podcast Higlights

Episode 58

Podcast Highlights From 2022

In this episode, Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor discuss some of their favourite clips from the 47 episodes of the Business Stuff Podcast filmed in 2022.

Strengthen employer brand podcast

Episode 57

How to strengthen your ‘employer brand’

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Kathryn Rodgers from Face to Face HR about employer branding, and how to recruit your ideal employees.

Some things discussed in this episode include: What is your ‘employer brand’ and how to advertise this when recruiting, and how to write job adverts that attract the right candidates.

Link between family, law and business podcast

Episode 56

The link between family law and business

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Jack Spoor and Emma Purvis from Robson Laidler talk to Rebecca Cresswell from Sweeney Miller Solicitors about the link between family law and business.

Some things discussed in this episode include:

How to structure your family business for best legal protection, why family businesses still need formal written agreements, and much more…

Author of The Floundering Founder interview

Episode 55

An interview with the author of ‘The Floundering Founder’

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to successful entrepreneur Raman Sehgal about his journey building ‘Ramarketing’ to over 70 employees.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The importance of specialising and choosing a niche, how to create a great company culture, and more …

Successful YouTube channel podcast

Episode 54

How to Build a Successful YouTube Channel

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Giles McMullen from the YouTube channel ‘Python Programmer’ about how to build a successful YouTube channel.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to incorporate YouTube as part of your business communication strategy, and how to use YouTube to showcase your expertise.

2022 Autumn Statement review podcast

Episode 53

Autumn Statement 2022 Review

In this episode of Business Stuff Jack Spoor talks to Lorraine Harnby from Robson Laidler’s tax team about the highlights from the 2022 Autumn Statement.

Some areas of the Autumn Statement reviewed in this episode include: Personal tax, cooperation tax, the headline changes for business owners and individuals, and more …

The importance of perspective podcast

Episode 52

The Importance of Perspective

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor from Robson Laidler’s Business Accelerator team about the importance of perspective in business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to make sure you’re aware of your progress overtime, and the role perspective makes in motivation.

Recruitment and retention podcast

Episode 51

Recruitment & Retention

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Sarah Furness from Hay & Kilner about recruitment & retention.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Tips to help retain your staff, tips for advertising job roles, what to include in an employment contract, and more.

Economic Growth podcast

Episode 50

How Economic Growth Impacts Your Business

In this episode of Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor from Robson Laidler’s Business Accelerator team about economic growth, and how it impacts businesses.  

Some things discussed in this episode include: How government can influence economic growth, and how businesses can deal with uncertainty around economic growth.

The emotion of change podcast

Episode 49

The Emotion of Change

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Agnesia Agrella from Symetize about ‘the emotion of change’.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How change effects your emotions, and the science behind why people find change difficult.

Consciously Connected podcast

Episode 48

Consciously Connected

In this episode of Business Stuff, Martin Wardle talks to Claire Thew and Clare Blunt from Venture Zero about the links between sustainability and mental health, and how it applies to your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The links between sustainability and mental health, and how investing in the health of your team can benefit your business.

Using Social Media to Grow Your Business podcast

Episode 47

Using Social Media to Grow Your Business

In this episode of Business Stuff, Martin Wardle talks to Scott Goodacre from Scott Digital about how to use social media to grow your business.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Why does your business need to be on social media, and the common mistakes businesses make with their content.

Episode 46

The Importance of Financial Planning

In this episode of Business Stuff, Jack Spoor talks to financial planner Emma Purvis about the importance of financial planning.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The difference between financial advice and financial planning, the myths about financial planners and what they do, and common misconceptions about who needs financial planning.

Episode 45

All Women Welcome

In this episode of Business Stuff, Martin Wardle talks to Lucy Batley from All Women Welcome about the importance of making workplaces more welcoming to women.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The business case for workplace diversity, how increased diversity can lead to increased profits, and practical ways to make sure everyone is equally included at work.

Episode 44

Change Success Modelling

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about ‘change success modelling’.

Some things discussed in this episode include: What change success modelling is and how it works, how to adapt to change, steps to take if you’re not ready for change, and what factors are necessary for successful change implementation.

Episode 43

Charities Accounts

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Liam Crowe from Robson Laidler’s Audit department about charity accounts.

Some things discussed in this episode include: The benefits and drawbacks of different charity structures, what most charities get wrong with their reserves policies, and the legal obligations of being a trustee.

Episode 42

Corporate Giving Made Easy

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Michelle Cooper from the County Durham Community Foundation about Corporate Giving Made Easy.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Different ways companies can give, the benefits of giving though a foundation, and what are the common barriers for companies that want to give.

Episode 41

Quiet Quitting

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor from Robson Laidler about ‘quiet quitting’.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to spot quiet quitting within your team, how it differs from ‘the great resignation’, and the impacts of quiet quitting on your business.

Episode 40

Managing Your Business Debts

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Allison Thompson from Sintons Solicitors about managing your business debts.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to approach chasing debts in business, what are the common mistakes in debt collection, and what to include on your invoice if you want to get paid.

Episode 39

The Business of Sport

In this episode of Robson Laidler’s Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor talk to Mick Hogan managing director at MMG Sports, about the business of sport.

During the first part of the interview, Mick talks about: How performance on the field affects revenue and game attendance, how and why finance changes between sports, how to build and retain a fan base, and much more.

Episode 38

Changing Lanes

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to BBC Radio Newcastle presenter Alfie Joey about what he calls ‘changing lanes’.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Alfie’s secrets to being successful in life and business, how to get out of a rut, and how to embrace change.

Episode 37

Why Emotional Intelligence Is Critical To Success

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Paul Cheetham about why emotional intelligence is critical to success.

Some things discussed in this episode include: What is emotional intelligence, why you need to be aware of your own emotions, and how to use emotional intelligence when working with other people.

Episode 36

The 9 Types of Self-Sabotage

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about the 9 types of self-sabotage.

Some things discussed in this episode include: What the 9 types of self-sabotage are, how you can spot them, and the importance of knowing which ones effect you and your team.

Episode 35

What Is An Audit, And Why Would I Need One?

In this episode, Jack Spoor talks to Andrea Simmons from Robson Laidler about auditing.

Some things discussed in this episode include: What is an audit, what an audit involves, and what are some of the different types of audit.

Episode 34

How to effectively engage your team

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Craig Smith about how you can effectively engage your team.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to keep your team motivated, ways to improve your internal communication, and how to make sure your team members feel valued.

Episode 33

How to use SEO to attract customers

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Johnny Ross of Fleek about how to ensure your content is attracting the right kind of customers.

Johnny learned the hard way that producing content for your website without considering search engine optimisation is sometimes just not enough.

Episode 32

How to use video content to attract customers

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Mark Bryant from Media Partnership about how to use video content to attract customers.

Likes, shares, comments and subscribers don’t pay the bills – sales do! But how do you use video marketing to take your audience down a sales funnel? Watch this episode to find out.

Episode 31

Buying, selling and all things property

In this episode of Robson Laidler’s Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Duncan Young from the North East’s leading estate agency and property consultancy Sanderson Young about all things property.

During the first part of the interview, Duncan talks about: How the property business has evolved, common mistakes made by both buyers and sellers of property, and what effects the value of a property.

Episode 30

An Introduction to Public Relations

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Keith Newman from Highlights PR on his boat office about public relations.

Some things discussed include: Why businesses should use PR in their marketing, how to manage a PR crisis, what makes a good PR story (and what doesn’t), and the importance of good headlines and photography.

Episode 29

Buying your first rental property

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Emma Watt from Hive Estates about buying your first rental property.

Some things discussed include: Legal compliance for landlords, marketing your property to attract the right kind of tenants, and pitfalls you should think about before purchasing your first rental property.

Episode 28

The 7 myths of R&D

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Jack Spoor about ‘The 7 myths of R&D’

This episode will be useful for anyone considering making their first R&D claim, as well as for anyone currently in the process of preparing one.

Episode 27

Commercial Finance

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Commercial Funding Specialist Graeme Harrison about commercial finance.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Sources of commercial finance, advantages and disadvantages of different finance types, and when and why do businesses use external funding.

Episode 26

Common pitfalls of commercial leases

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Emma Walker from EW Estates about the common pitfalls of commercial leases.

Some things discussed in this episode include: Common mistakes made by tenants of commercial properties, how commercial leases are different to residential, how to protect your business, and whether you’re a tenant or a landlord.

Episode 25

How to be more vocally confident

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Helen Ingham from Be Voice Confident about how you can improve your speaking confidence, and verbal communication skills.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to sound more confident when speaking, how your volume and tone of voice effects your communication, and how to overcome the fear of speaking.

Episode 24

Effective Performance Management

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle talks to Sarah Callender from Duo Global Consulting about ‘Effective Performance Management’.

Some things discussed in this episode include: How to motivate your team, tips on effective communication with your team, and the importance of company culture.

Episode 23

Financial Myths

In this episode, Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor talk about common ‘financial myths’.

The media often exaggerate financial claims to get a good story, and business owners commonly mistaken rules when it comes to things like allowable company expenses. This episode helps to provide some truth behind common financial myths in business.

Episode 22

Managing Your Financial Resources

Being able to pay yourself from your business is great, but what do you do with your money once you’ve earned it?

On this week’s episode, Martin Wardle talks to Financial Advisor Neil Cowie from Robson Laidler Wealth about ‘Managing Your Financial Resources’.

Episode 21

Wills & Powers of Attorney

A lot of people put off writing their will, thinking nothing is going to happen any time soon. However, some people leave writing their will until it’s too late. Therefore, it’s a good idea to write your will as early as possible.

In this episode, Martin Wardle talks to Brian Thomson from The Will Guys about wills and powers of attorney.

Episode 20

An introduction to R&D

In this episode, business advisors Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor talk about Research & Development (R&D) Tax Credits.

If you’ve heard of R&D but don’t know where to start, this episode gives an insight into some things you may need to consider before making a claim.

Episode 19

Why being a B-Corp is good for business

In this episode Martin Wardle and Graham Purvis talk about ‘Why being a B-Corp is good for business’.

As the first B-Corp in the North East, Robson Laidler have joined the movement to building a business that has a wider impact beyond just profits. However, being a B-Corp is not about turning your business into a charity, it also has great benefits for your business.

Episode 18

Getting feedback from your teams

In this episode, business advisors Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor, talk about two different tools to help leaders get feedback from their teams. Feedback is one of the most important things you can get from a team, so this episode runs through some simple tools you can use to gain feedback effectively.

Episode 17

The 7 Wastes In Business

In this episode, business advisors Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor, talk about ‘the 7 wastes in business’.

Waste in business isn’t just unsold stock that’s passed its sell by date. Waste can come in a variety of different forms such as time waste, or process inefficiencies. To hear all 7 wastes in business, and get some insight into how you can reduce waste in multiple areas of your business…

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Episode 16

Visualising Your Goals

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor talk about ‘Visualising Your Goals’.

Anyone who’s been in business for any length of time will know the importance of having clearly defined goals. This episode walks through a unique visualisation tool which you can use either individually or within your teams to help put your goals to paper in a creative a memorable way.

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Episode 15

Fraud In Business

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor talk about ‘Fraud in business’.

Some things discussed in this episode include: What the different types of fraud are, some common types of fraud to watch out for, and how can you avoid becoming a victim of fraud.

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Episode 14

What is inflation?

In this episode of the Business Stuff Podcast, Martin Wardle and Nick Wilson talk about inflation.

You might of heard the term inflation mentioned on the news… But what actually is it? How does inflation actually work? What is inflation caused by? And crucially, how does it affect your business, and what can you do to prepare for it? If you have any of those questions, this podcast episode has the answers!

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Episode 13

Listeners Questions

In this podcast episode, business advisors Jack Spoor and Martin Wardle answer questions sent in from listeners of the Business Stuff Podcast.

With a wide range of business questions, and two business advisors giving the answers, this episode is packed with value.

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Episode 12

Standing out from competition

In this Podcast episode, business advisors Jack Spoor and Martin Wardle talk about ‘Standing out from competition’.

Is your sustainable competitive advantage actually that competitive?

Is what you’re calling a unique selling point really just a basic client expectation?

If you don’t have a clear answer to any of these questions…

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Episode 11

Scaling Your Business

In this Podcast episode, business advisors Jack Spoor and Martin Wardle talk about ‘Scaling your business’.

Whether you’ve got plans to expand your business locally, nationally, or start trading in countries around the world, this episode is full of things you may need to consider when scaling up your business.

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Episode 10

4 Things to do in January

In this Podcast episode, business advisors Jack Spoor and Martin Wardle discuss the ‘4 things to do in January’ in your business.

Whether you’ve had a slow start to the new year, or already hit your January goals, this podcast episode has some useful tips to set you and your business up for a great 2022!

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Episode 9

How to effectively market to your audience

In this episode, Gemma graham and Martin Wardle talk about ‘how to effectively market to your audience’.

Marketing can be tricky to get your head around, but most people overcomplicate it. This podcast episode helps to break marketing down to basics, and gives some practical tips to help you get started in your own marketing journey.

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Episode 8

Business Planning for 2022

In this episode, business advisors Jack and Martin talk about business planning for 2022.

You may be thinking after this last year, ‘why even bother planning when there are so many factors out of our control’? Well… this episode helps to answer that question!

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Episode 7

How To Price Your Services

In this episode, Martin Wardle and Jack Spoor talk about ‘how to price your services’. The price point at which you sell your products and services can have significant impact on the success of your business. Price too high, and your customers may look to competitors. Price too low and you put your profitability at risk.

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Episode 6

Maintaining Success

A topic that isn’t talked about enough is the role tracking the right data plays in ensuring your business sustains its current performance. Without tracking data in your business, and the right kind of data, you cannot fully understand in a measurable way which areas of your business are performing.

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Episode 5

Embracing Change in Business

Benjamin Franklin once said, “When you’re finished changing, you’re finished”. Change is inevitable in business. If you don’t adapt to the new and rapidly changing market demands, you don’t stand a chance against your competitors who actively seek and embrace change.

In this podcast episode, we are going to discuss the importance of change, and give some practical first steps you can take to begin the process of change and innovation in your business.

Episode 4

Getting the right support at the right time

Find out what support is available to business owners right now.

We all know that the right support can really accelerate your business. There are three main areas all businesses need support in, these are: Funding, Coaching & Mentoring and Networking, and in this podcast business coaches Nick Wilson and Bob Evans briefly explore all three.

Episode 3

10 Hats in Every Business

There are 10 Hats in EVERY business. But this doesn’t mean you always have to wear them all! During this podcast we discuss how getting your organisation structure right allows you to take off some of those hats and delegate them to someone else. We also discuss above and below the line thinking and look at some practical examples of how you can grow your business sustainably.

Episode 2

Vision, Mission and Purpose

The Business Accelerator team discuss the theme of Vision, Mission and Purpose; why it is important to have clear direction for your business whatever the size and how your purpose should influence all decisions you make in your business.

Episode 1

Finding Direction in Business

Speakers, Nick Wilson, Martin Wardle, Jack Spoor and Bob Evans discuss how starting off in business can be like being dropped in “The Jungle” and how certain strategies can help you find your path to your end goal.

We also discuss the free freedoms of time, mind and finance.

Business Stuff podcast is available to download on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast. Or search ‘Robson Laidler’ in your preferred podcast platform.