ScaleX™ Insider Podcast

In this insightful episode of ScaleX™ Insider, Brendan McGurgan sits down with Claire Colvin, business partner, leadership strategist, and expert in scaling people-centred businesses, as they wrap up Season 18. Claire reflects on the most powerful lessons from the season and shares her personal and professional intentions for 2026, offering practical advice for leaders navigating growth, connection, and success in a noisy world. KEY INSIGHTS: Be clear on what success looks like—define it personally and professionally before getting distracted by tools, trends, or AI. Align with your values—living in alignment ensures fulfillment and authentic decision-making. Prioritise connection intentionally—relationships are a critical source of energy, support, and personal growth. Rituals and reflection matter—Claire shares how creating personal intentions and connection walks can help reset and refocus after challenging periods. Self-care fuels performance—prioritising your own well-being ensures you can show up fully for your team and business. Break vision into practical priorities—align long-term goals with actionable steps that move the business forward. THE CRITICAL LESSON: Scaling a business and leading with purpose requires clarity, alignment, and presence. By defining what success means to you, connecting intentionally, and nurturing your own energy, you can navigate challenges with confidence, make decisions in alignment with your values, and continue to grow personally and professionally. PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS FOR LEADERS: Take time to articulate what success looks like for you in 2026. Reflect on your values and ensure they guide decisions and priorities. Prioritise meaningful connections—schedule rituals and interactions that matter. Build daily or seasonal reflection routines to reset focus and energy. Break your vision into concrete actions that move the needle for your business. ABOUT CLAIRE COLVIN: Claire Colvin is a business partner, leadership strategist, and advisor to high-growth SMEs. She specialises in helping leaders scale people-centred businesses by combining strategy, values, and practical frameworks that enable teams to thrive. Her experience spans executive leadership, scaling businesses, and mentoring leaders to perform at their best while staying aligned to purpose. CONNECT WITH CLAIRE COLVIN: 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/claire-colvin

In this standout episode of ScaleX™ Insider, Brendan McGurgan is joined by Claire Colvin — business partner, leadership strategist, and expert in scaling people-centred businesses — to unpack one of the most powerful insights from Season 18: how presence, confidence, and intentionality can transform the way leaders show up. Claire reflects on a key message shared by guest Jim Murphy about confidence — and why all the usual advice around nutrition, sleep, exercise, and relationships, while important, misses one crucial element: being fully present in the moment. She explains how anxiety and self-doubt often arise when we overthink the future or worry about judgment, and how bringing your full attention to the here and now can unlock authentic confidence and enhance connection with others. Claire and Brendan explore actionable ideas for leaders to build this presence and intentionally show up in their professional and personal lives, offering practical takeaways to help SME founders, executives, and team leaders perform at their best. KEY INSIGHTS: Confidence isn't just about rituals — it's about being present in the moment. Anxiety and self-doubt often come from overthinking the future or worrying about others' perceptions. Presence allows you to focus on connecting and engaging with others, rather than getting lost in your own thoughts. Intentionality in actions and priorities is the bridge between confidence and authentic leadership. Self-care rituals (sleep, nutrition, exercise, relationships) are important, but mindful presence amplifies their impact. THE CRITICAL LESSON: True confidence emerges not from external routines alone, but from fully showing up in the moment. By focusing on presence and intentional action, leaders can engage authentically, reduce self-doubt, and inspire others around them. PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS FOR LEADERS: Pause before meetings or decisions — focus on the here and now. Bring attention to the people you are connecting with rather than your own worries. Align daily actions with your intentions to build confidence over time. Pair presence with your usual wellness rituals to maximize their effect. Reflect on how your leadership energy impacts others, not just yourself. ABOUT CLAIRE COLVIN: Claire Colvin is a business partner and leadership strategist specialising in people-centred business growth. She helps SME leaders and high-growth companies scale successfully by focusing on culture, values, leadership, and authentic connection. CONNECT WITH CLAIRE COLVIN: 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/claire-colvin

In this standout Season 18 wrap-up of ScaleX™ Insider, Brendan McGurgan is joined by Claire Colvin — business partner, leadership strategist, and expert in scaling people-centred businesses — to reflect on the most powerful themes, insights, and lessons from the season. Claire shares the key takeaways from conversations with high-performing leaders, founders, and experts, highlighting what drives success, authenticity, and growth in both business and life. From courage and confidence to presence, intentional connection, and leveraging AI wisely, Claire unpacks the insights that resonated most and how leaders can apply them to scale with purpose. Brendan and Claire explore actionable strategies for SME founders and business leaders, including frameworks for aligning values, building meaningful relationships, embracing discomfort, and living authentically — all while maintaining focus, energy, and resilience. Episode Highlights Why courage isn't the absence of fear — leaning into discomfort is key to growth ("scaling with wet pants") Authenticity as a performance lever — removing the armour to show up fully and bring your best self The power of presence — staying in the moment reduces anxiety, boosts confidence, and strengthens connection How intentional connection fuels energy and business success — exploring the Three Rs: Relationship, Ritual, Rhythm Using AI to create space for connection — technology as an enabler, not a distraction Lessons from standout guests: Jim Murphy on courage, ego, and wisdom; Anne Mahlum on recognition and support; Sunny Leonarduzzi on creating value over chasing fame Reflection on personal challenges — navigating grief, maintaining commitments, and showing up despite setbacks Practical advice for SME leaders: de-risking your business, scaling intentionally, and prioritising human connections Meet Claire Colvin Claire Colvin is a business partner, leadership strategist, and expert in scaling people-centred businesses. With extensive experience supporting high-growth companies and SME leaders, she specialises in: Leadership frameworks for scaling people and culture Aligning business growth with personal and organisational values Designing intentional connection and high-performing teams Guiding leaders to scale sustainably while maintaining authenticity and resilience Key Topics Covered → Courage, fear, and leaning into discomfort → Showing up authentically and removing performance barriers → Staying present to boost confidence and engagement → Intentionality in relationships and meaningful connection → Leveraging AI as a tool, not a distraction → Lessons from top leaders and founders on scaling, ego, and human performance → Managing personal challenges while leading effectively Who Should Listen This episode is essential for SME founders, CEOs, executives, and team leaders who want to: Lead authentically while scaling their business Prioritise energy, resilience, and human connection Navigate fear and uncertainty with courage Apply actionable insights from successful leaders and entrepreneurs Align personal and professional goals for sustainable growth About Claire Colvin Claire Colvin is a leadership strategist and scaling expert focused on people-centred growth. She works with SME leaders and high-growth companies to align strategy, culture, and execution, helping teams thrive while leaders scale with purpose. CONNECT WITH CLAIRE COLVIN: 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/claire-colvin About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling — creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme. A 12-month journey for ambitious SME leaders combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through growth plateaus. Host: Brendan McGurgan Website: simplescaling.com Subscribe & Listen Watch on YouTube: Simple Scaling Channel Listen on Apple Podcasts: ScaleX Insider Listen on Spotify: ScaleX Insider

Many leaders believe scaling starts with strategy—but in this ScaleX Bite-Size episode, sleep is revealed as the true foundation of mindset, resilience, and ambition. Drawing from personal experience and years of research, Mollie Eastman shares how chronic insomnia reshaped her life, health, and leadership capacity, and why sleep is not passive rest but a learnable skill that powers performance and growth. From identifying as a "night owl" and "short sleeper" to navigating debilitating insomnia as a high-performing entrepreneur, Mollie's journey challenges fixed beliefs about sleep and shows what becomes possible when sleep is treated as a strategic priority rather than an afterthought. KEY INSIGHTS: Mindset and sleep are deeply connected: poor sleep can disempower ambition and clarity Chronic insomnia affects health, mental resilience, and emotional regulation Even short-term sleep disruptions can create serious physiological and cognitive impacts Sleep is a skill that can be learned, measured, and optimized—no one is "just a night owl" forever Behavioral changes, circadian rhythm alignment, and accountability are crucial for consistent, high-quality sleep THE CORE SHIFT: Stop thinking "Sleep just happens." Start thinking "Sleep is a skill that powers my health, mindset, and performance." PRACTICAL TAKEAWAY: Track your sleep and notice patterns of disruption Implement behaviors that protect and enhance circadian rhythm Explore actionable strategies for optimising sleep beyond just quantity—lighting, timing, and routines matter Treat sleep as a foundational pillar of health, productivity, and scaling your life ABOUT MOLLIE EASTMAN: Mollie Eastman is the creator of Sleep Is A Skill. After navigating her own insomnia while traveling internationally, she became passionate about chronobiology and behavioral approaches to sleep. Mollie helps people optimise sleep through technology, accountability, and actionable behavioral change. She has built online courses, a weekly sleep newsletter, partnerships with luxury brands, and has appeared on over 150 podcasts. CONNECT WITH MOLLIE EASTMAN: 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollie-eastman 🔗 Website: https://www.sleepisaskill.com/ WATCH FULL EPISODE: 🔗 [Link to full episode]

Many people think sleep is just rest—but it secretly controls your health, brain, and every area of life. In this clip, Mollie Eastman explains how poor sleep impacts cognition, emotional regulation, and even long-term neurological health—and why optimizing sleep is the foundation for performing at your best. KEY INSIGHTS: Poor sleep affects every area of life: health, relationships, career, and decision-making Glymphatic drainage during sleep cleans your brain; poor sleep may contribute to Alzheimer's and dementia Just a few short nights of sleep can spike glucose levels and impair choices Sleep impacts immune function, longevity, and even beauty and aging High-performance requires optimizing sleep, not just surviving it THE CORE SHIFT: Stop thinking "Sleep is optional." Start thinking "Sleep is the skill that powers every part of my life." PRACTICAL TAKEAWAY: Anchor your day with sunlight exposure to regulate your circadian rhythm Prioritise consistent sleep duration and quality, not just time in bed Track sleep patterns and notice how small changes affect energy, focus, and performance ABOUT MOLLIE EASTMAN: Mollie Eastman is the creator of Sleep Is A Skill. She helps people optimise sleep using technology, accountability, and behavioral change. After navigating insomnia herself, Mollie became fascinated with chronobiology and the practical applications of sleep science. She has created signature courses, newsletters, and partnerships with luxury brands, and appeared on over 150 podcasts. CONNECT WITH MOLLIE EASTMAN: 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollie-eastman 🔗 Website: https://www.sleepisaskill.com/ WATCH FULL EPISODE: 🔗 [Link to full episode]

In this standout episode from last season of ScaleX™ Insider, Brendan McGurgan is joined by Mollie Eastman, sleep expert, creator of Sleep Is A Skill, and host of The Sleep Is A Skill Podcast, to unpack why so many leaders are unknowingly sabotaging their sleep — and how mastering this forgotten skill can transform energy, focus, and performance in business and life. Mollie shares why sleep is a skill you can learn, how daily behaviors unknowingly sabotage rest, and why circadian alignment, light exposure, and consistent wake-up routines are critical to performing at your best. Drawing on her journey from chronic insomnia to building a sleep optimization company, she reveals practical strategies, tools, and mindset shifts to help leaders reclaim rest, focus, and vitality. Brendan and Mollie explore actionable frameworks, behavioral hacks, and science-backed insights for mastering sleep — from sunlight anchoring and circadian rhythm entrainment to leveraging technology and accountability — and why mastering sleep is foundational to scaling your business and life with purpose. Episode Highlights Why sleep is not fixed — it's a skill you can learn How everyday habits unknowingly sabotage your rest Circadian rhythm and the importance of light-dark exposure The role of consistent wake-up times in optimizing performance Using wearable technology and metrics to quantify sleep quality Links between sleep, cognitive function, emotion regulation, and decision-making Sleep as a lever for scaling leadership energy, focus, and resilience The hidden health risks of sleep deprivation, from heart health to metabolic function Meet Mollie Eastman: Mollie Eastman is the creator of Sleep Is A Skill and host of The Sleep Is A Skill Podcast. After navigating chronic insomnia while traveling internationally, Mollie created a company to teach the skill set of sleep — blending behavioral change, technology, and accountability. She has written a weekly sleep newsletter for nearly six years, created the signature Optimise Your Sleep course, partnered with lifestyle brands and luxury hotels, and appeared on over 150 podcasts. Mollie specialises in: Teaching sleep as a learnable skill, not a fixed trait Behavioral strategies and circadian alignment for optimised rest Practical tools to improve energy, focus, and performance Using sleep to enhance overall health, resilience, and life performance Key Topics Covered → Mastering sleep as a skill for high performance → Identifying and eliminating everyday impediments to quality sleep → Circadian rhythm entrainment and sunlight anchoring → Consistent wake-up routines and anchor habits → Leveraging technology and accountability to optimize sleep → The profound effects of sleep on cognition, health, and leadership performance Who Should Listen This episode is essential for SME founders, CEOs, executives, and team leaders who want to: Optimise energy, focus, and productivity Build resilience and perform at their best Scale their business without burning out Use sleep as a strategic lever for health and leadership Transform daily habits into lasting performance gains About Mollie Eastman Mollie Eastman is the creator of Sleep Is A Skill, host of the The Sleep Is A Skill Podcast, and a sleep optimisation expert. She helps leaders, entrepreneurs, and high performers reclaim control over their sleep and energy, transforming health, performance, and overall life experience. CONNECT WITH MOLLIE EASTMAN: 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollie-eastman 🔗 Website: https://sleepisaskill.com About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling — creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme. A 12-month journey for ambitious SME leaders combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through growth plateaus. Host: Brendan McGurgan Website: simplescaling.com Subscribe & Listen Watch on YouTube: Simple Scaling...

Nancy Duarte breaks down the biggest mistakes leaders make when preparing presentations—and the simple mindset shift that changes everything. In this clip, she explains why empathy matters more than slides, how message always beats visuals, and why most leaders are using the wrong format for the wrong moment. KEY INSIGHTS: Empathy is the starting point of every great presentation—know how your audience consumes information Slides should never come before strategy; message and delivery matter more than visuals Not every meeting needs a PowerPoint—sometimes a whiteboard or diagram is more powerful Presentations and "slide docs" serve different purposes and should never be confused The messy middle—half presentation, half document—is where clarity goes to die THE CRITICAL LESSON: Great communication isn't about prettier slides—it's about respecting how your audience thinks, listens, and decides. When you design for empathy first, your message lands with far greater impact. PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS FOR LEADERS: Ask first: Who am I speaking to and how will they consume this? Clarify whether you're delivering a presentation or a document—never both Build the message before touching slides Use simple visuals to anchor ideas, not overwhelm them Create separate templates for stage presentations and slide docs ABOUT NANCY DUARTE: Nancy Duarte is CEO of Duarte, Inc. and one of the world's leading communication experts. She has advised global brands and leaders for over 35 years, authored six bestselling books, and decoded the structure behind the most influential speeches of our time. CONNECT WITH NANCY DUARTE: 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nancyduarte 🔗Website: https://www.duarte.com/ WATCH FULL EPISODE: 🔗 [Link to full Nancy Duarte episode]

Many leaders carry a powerful vision—but stay silent because of fear. In this clip, Nancy Duarte reframes glossophobia (fear of public speaking) and explains why nervous speakers often deliver the most meaningful messages. KEY INSIGHTS: Fear of public speaking is real—and more common than fear of death Leaders who feel nervous often care more and prepare more thoughtfully The fear isn't about the audience—it's your brain's fight-or-flight response When you focus on empathy, fear starts to dissolve Your vision isn't about you—it's about what your team loses if you stay silent THE CORE SHIFT: Stop asking "How do I perform?" Start asking "What do my people need to hear?" PRACTICAL TAKEAWAY: Create a pre-talk ritual. Some leaders need to calm themselves Others need to make themselves feel brave Do whatever helps you step on stage grounded, present, and empathetic. ABOUT NANCY DUARTE: Nancy Duarte is CEO of Duarte, Inc. and one of the world's leading communication experts. She has advised global brands and leaders for over 35 years, authored six bestselling books, and decoded the structure behind the most influential speeches of our time. CONNECT WITH NANCY DUARTE: 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nancyduarte 🔗Website: https://www.duarte.com/ WATCH FULL EPISODE: 🔗 [Link to full Nancy Duarte episode]

What if the real barrier to scaling your business — and inspiring your team — isn't strategy, talent, or effort, but your ability to communicate vision and empower people effectively? In this episode of ScaleX™ Insider, Brendan McGurgan is joined by Nancy Duarte, communication expert, author, and CEO of Duarte, Inc., to unpack why so many leaders struggle to turn vision into action — and how overcoming fear, articulating a compelling vision, and investing in people can create sustainable growth. Nancy shares why leaders often get stuck in silence, how fear signals that a message matters, and why empathy and preparation are critical to delivering vision with impact. Drawing on decades of experience guiding leaders and organisations, she reveals how to transform fear into focus, inspire your team, and design the people systems that actually scale your business. Brendan and Nancy explore practical tools, mindset shifts, and frameworks for turning ideas into action — from pre-talk rituals to building talent pipelines — and why empowering your team is as important as the vision itself. Episode Highlights Why fear often signals the importance of your message How leaders can turn glossophobia into thoughtful preparation The role of empathy in effective communication Pre-talk rituals and mindset practices that boost confidence Transforming vision into action for sustainable growth Building a people-first culture that drives business performance Identifying, developing, and empowering emerging leaders Creating psychological safety to encourage learning, experimentation, and ownership The hidden cost of staying silent on important strategic decisions Aligning your vision with what customers and your team actually need Meet Nancy Duarte: Nancy Duarte is a communication expert, CEO of Duarte, Inc., and author of multiple books on leadership, presentation, and organizational transformation. She helps leaders and organisations communicate vision and ideas with clarity, empathy, and impact — turning strategies into action and people into high-performing teams. Nancy specialises in: Transforming leadership fear into actionable vision Building talent pipelines and learning cultures Empowering teams to own initiatives and scale the business Teaching leaders to communicate strategically and empathetically Key Topics Covered → Overcoming fear of public speaking and strategic communication → Articulating vision to inspire commitment and alignment → Developing people systems that support scalable growth → Mentorship, emerging leaders, and talent pipeline development → Building culture, accountability, and ownership in teams → Pre-talk rituals and preparation to boost leadership presence → Aligning vision with customer and team needs Who Should Listen This episode is essential for SME founders, CEOs, executives, and team leaders who want to: Communicate vision with impact Build high-performing, empowered teams Scale their business without relying on themselves Turn fear into focus and action Create a sustainable, people-first growth culture About Nancy Duarte Nancy Duarte is the CEO of Duarte, Inc., a global communications firm, and author of several influential books on presentations and leadership. She has guided leaders and organisations in articulating vision, communicating effectively, and creating cultures that thrive. CONNECT WITH NANCY DUARTE: 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nancyduarte 🔗Website: https://www.duarte.com/ About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling — creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme. A 12-month journey for ambitious SME leaders combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through growth plateaus. Host: Brendan McGurgan Website: simplescaling.com Subscribe & Listen Watch on YouTube: Simple Scaling Channel Listen on Apple Podcasts: ScaleX Insider Listen on Spotify: ScaleX Insider

Dr. BJ Fogg explains how tiny, consistent habits and intentional morning routines can shift your identity, boost your productivity, and create lasting momentum. In this clip, he dives into the "Maui Habit," why starting each day by declaring it a great day sets an upward trajectory, and how small habits—like push-ups after using the bathroom—build consistency and confidence over time. KEY INSIGHTS: Small, repeatable behaviours create identity shifts that influence decisions throughout your day Starting the day with intention ("Today is going to be a great day") builds resilience and positive momentum Tiny Habits work not by size, but by consistency and emotional reinforcement Even minor actions, if tied to existing routines, compound into significant life and performance changes Feeling successful in small wins triggers larger ripple effects across personal and professional life THE CRITICAL LESSON: It's not about doing more—it's about designing easy, consistent behaviours that make you feel successful. Dr. Fogg's advice: "If you let yourself feel successful, yes, the habit wires in quickly because it's the emotion, not repetition, that creates habits of emotion." PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS FOR LEADERS AND ENTREPRENEURS: Start each day with an intentional statement to set a positive trajectory Attach small behaviours to existing routines to ensure consistency (e.g., push-ups after bathroom breaks) Focus on the emotion of success, not the size of the habit Use incremental actions to shift identity—become the kind of person who follows through Apply Tiny Habits principles to personal and professional routines to drive lasting change CONNECT WITH DR. BJ FOGG 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bjfogg 🔗 Website: https://www.bjfogg.com WATCH FULL EPISODE: 🔗 [Link to full BJ Fogg episode]

Dr. BJ Fogg explains how behaviour design can help CEOs, entrepreneurs, and SME leaders systematically achieve massive results. In this clip, he breaks down exactly how small, intentional behaviours—when prioritised and embedded consistently—can drive outcomes like doubling revenue in six months. KEY INSIGHTS: Doubling revenue isn't magic—it's a result of specific, measurable behaviours consistently applied CEOs and leaders can design weekly and one-time behaviours to drive business outcomes Behaviour design provides a system for clarity, confidence, and predictable results Even small actions, when strategically implemented, ripple through teams and organisations Training and structured practice accelerate mastery and maximise impact THE CRITICAL LESSON: Stop guessing—identify, prioritise, and embed the behaviours that truly matter. Dr. Fogg's advice: "You can get confident and you can have a system. The behaviours you design today directly shape your results tomorrow." PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS FOR LEADERS AND ENTREPRENEURS: Schedule recurring, high-impact behaviours (e.g., weekly revenue meetings or customer feedback reviews) Embed one-time strategic actions that create outsized impact (e.g., connecting with industry influencers) Use prompts, structure, and small, repeatable actions to ensure consistency Leverage hands-on training, online courses, or self-practice to master behaviour design Focus on systemised action, not guesswork or motivation CONNECT WITH DR. BJ FOGG 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bjfogg 🔗 Website: https://www.bjfogg.com WATCH FULL EPISODE: 🔗 [Link to full BJ Fogg episode] SCALEX™ AND SIMPLE SCALING: 📖 Book: Simple Scaling: 10 Proven Principles to 10x Your Business 🔗 ScaleX Elevate Community: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-elevate 🔗 ScaleX Accelerator Programme: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme 🔗 Website: https://simplescaling.com 📧 Email: hello@simplescaling.com 📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplescaling About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling: ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling—creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme, a 12-month journey for ambitious entrepreneurs combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through revenue plateaus. 🔗 Learn more: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme

As we wrap up the year on ScaleX™ Insider, we're revisiting one of the most impactful conversations we've ever had—because the lessons matter just as much now as they did when it first aired. From tiny habits to massive life transformations, this episode with Dr. BJ Fogg cuts through the noise of motivation hacks and productivity hype. No gimmicks. No hype. Just science-backed behaviour design that actually sticks. In this episode, Dr. BJ Fogg—world-renowned behaviour scientist and bestselling author of Tiny Habits—reveals why small, intentional actions, paired with the right emotional triggers, are far more powerful than willpower or repetition. The Three Core Principles: Emotion Trumps Repetition: Habits stick when you feel successful doing them, not just because you repeat them. Your emotional experience wires the habit faster than any number of days. Start Tiny, Think Big: Small, easy-to-do behaviours create momentum. Over time, they shift your identity, influence decisions, and ripple out to impact every area of life. Focus on Ability, Not Motivation: Make desired behaviours simple and accessible. Motivation is unreliable; controlling ability is where change truly happens. The Maui Habit—A Morning Game-Changer: Dr. Fogg shares his famous "Maui Habit"—starting every day by saying, "It's going to be a great day." This simple ritual primes your mind, builds upward momentum, and improves how you handle challenges throughout the day. Why Helping Others Matters: Whether it's colleagues, clients, or loved ones, helping people feel successful strengthens relationships, reduces anxiety, and encourages engagement. Small actions that boost others create exponential positive impact. Practical Tips for CEOs and Entrepreneurs: Narrow your focus: Start with one clear goal or habit—expand later. Leverage tiny wins: Even small achievements reinforce identity and boost confidence. Build habits around emotion: Positive emotional triggers accelerate adoption. Make good habits easy, bad habits harder: Control what you can—the ability, not motivation. Key Insights: Habits are not formed by repetition alone—they form when behaviours trigger positive emotions. Identity shifts faster when small successes are recognised and celebrated. Tiny actions can create massive ripple effects, influencing others around you. Motivation is overrated; ability and simplicity are the keys to behaviour change. About Dr. BJ Fogg: Founder and Director of the Behaviour Design Lab at Stanford University, Dr. BJ Fogg is a pioneer in behaviour design. His research, cited over 20,000 times, has shaped fields from persuasive technology to mobile health. As an Adjunct Professor in Health and Human Performance, he trains leaders and students to apply behaviour science for positive change. His book Tiny Habits has inspired millions worldwide, and his former students include co-founders of Instagram. Connect with Dr. BJ Fogg: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bjfogg Website: https://www.bjfogg.com About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling — creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme. A 12-month journey for ambitious SME leaders combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through growth plateaus. Host: Brendan McGurgan Website: simplescaling.com Subscribe & Listen Watch on YouTube: Simple Scaling Channel Listen on Apple Podcasts: ScaleX Insider Listen on Spotify: ScaleX Insider

Lloyd Thompson breaks down why so many founders feel busy, overwhelmed, and unable to scale — despite having a team. In clip, Lloyd explains what a "business drowning in chaos" actually looks like: founders acting as the answering machine for every decision, teams that help but don't own outcomes, and operations that can't run without constant founder involvement. Lloyd reveals how poor delegation, unclear accountability, and founder dependency create a vicious cycle that traps business owners in the day-to-day — leaving no time for strategy, growth, or new business. KEY INSIGHTS: Founder chaos is a symptom of poor delegation and unclear accountability Teams often become helpers instead of owners Founder-dependent businesses struggle to scale or run without the founder Answering every question trains the team to rely on the founder Operational chaos and time-poor founders go hand in hand THE CRITICAL LESSON: If your business can't run without you, it's not scalable. Founders stay stuck in chaos not because their team is incapable — but because ownership, clarity, and decision-making haven't been properly delegated. As Lloyd explains, answering every question feels helpful in the moment but reinforces founder dependency over time. PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS FOR FOUNDERS AND LEADERS: Clearly define ownership for each function (marketing, sales, finance, delivery) Stop answering every question — coach decision-making instead Use the 1-3-1 framework: one problem, three options, one recommendation Ask: "What would you do if I wasn't here?" Test your business: could it run for six weeks without you? CONNECT WITH LLOYD THOMPSON Website: https://virtualdoo.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lloydt 📘 Get your free copy of "9 Ways to Leave Your Day-to-Day Operations" WATCH THE FULL EPISODE: 🔗 [Link to full Lloyd Thompson episode] SCALEX™ AND SIMPLE SCALING: 📖 Book: Simple Scaling: 10 Proven Principles to 10x Your Business 🔗 ScaleX Elevate Community: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-elevate 🔗 ScaleX Accelerator Programme: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme 🔗 Website: https://simplescaling.com 📧 Email: hello@simplescaling.com 📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplescaling About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling: ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling—creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme, a 12-month journey for ambitious entrepreneurs combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through revenue plateaus. 🔗 Learn more: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme

Lloyd Thompson explains why hiring for skill over character creates chaos as your business scales. In this ScaleX™ Bitesize clip, Lloyd dives into one of the most common mistakes founders make as they grow: focusing on technical ability while neglecting values and character. He explains how this leads to misaligned hires, poor role fit, and founders feeling trapped by highly skilled individuals who don't truly belong in the business. Lloyd also unpacks the concept of right people, right seats — why promoting top performers often backfires, and how clarity around vision and values is essential for building a scalable, healthy team. KEY INSIGHTS: Hiring for skill without checking character leads to long-term problems Values alignment should be assessed before role competence Founders often feel "held hostage" by highly skilled but misaligned team members Promoting top performers doesn't mean they're right for leadership Many people are placed in roles they don't want or don't have capacity for THE CRITICAL LESSON: Scaling requires more than talent — it requires alignment. If people don't share your values or sit in the right roles, growth creates friction, not freedom. As Lloyd explains, rewarding performance by promotion can unintentionally damage both the individual and the business. PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS FOR FOUNDERS AND LEADERS: Define your core values clearly before hiring or promoting Assess your team against values, not just performance Separate reward from promotion — not everyone should manage people Check whether people want the role, not just whether they're good at their current one Regularly review if team members are in the right seats CONNECT WITH LLOYD THOMPSON Website: https://virtualdoo.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lloydt 📘 Get your free copy of "9 Ways to Leave Your Day-to-Day Operations" WATCH THE FULL EPISODE: 🔗 [Link to full Lloyd Thompson episode] SCALEX™ AND SIMPLE SCALING: 📖 Book: Simple Scaling: 10 Proven Principles to 10x Your Business 🔗 ScaleX Elevate Community: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-elevate 🔗 ScaleX Accelerator Programme: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme 🔗 Website: https://simplescaling.com 📧 Email: hello@simplescaling.com 📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplescaling About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling: ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling—creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme, a 12-month journey for ambitious entrepreneurs combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through revenue plateaus. 🔗 Learn more: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme

What if the real reason your business feels constantly busy — yet never truly scales — isn't lack of effort, talent, or ambition, but operational chaos and founder dependency? In this episode of ScaleX™ Insider, Brendan McGurgan is joined by Lloyd Thompson, founder of VirtualDOO and author of "9 Ways to Leave Your Day-to-Day Operations", to unpack why so many businesses hit a growth ceiling at €3–15M revenue — and how founders can scale without scaling burnout. Lloyd shares what "drowning in chaos" actually looks like inside growing businesses, why founders unknowingly train their teams to depend on them, and how poor delegation, unclear accountability, and broken operational rhythms keep leaders trapped in the day-to-day. Drawing on over 20 years of experience running complex global operations — from banking platforms handling billions to nimble SMEs — Lloyd reveals how to build operational smoothness, reclaim your time, and create a business that supports your life, not consumes it. Brendan and Lloyd explore the mindset shifts, systems, and structures founders must put in place to move from firefighting to strategy — and why stepping back is the hardest but most valuable decision a leader can make. Episode Highlights Why most founders don't scale — they scale chaos What "drowning in chaos" really looks like inside growing businesses The danger of founder-dependent operating systems Why teams become helpers instead of owners The hidden cost of poor delegation and unclear accountability How to break the cycle of being the answer to every question The 1-3-1 decision-making framework that builds ownership in teams Why "dual responsibility" leads to no responsibility How to design accountability with visibility and verification The three levels of accountability: org, process, and task Why documenting processes doesn't have to drain founder time The I Do / We Do / You Do method for scalable delegation How operational rhythms eliminate bottlenecks and firefighting The five core rhythms every scaling business needs Why clarity of vision is the foundation of operational smoothness Meet Lloyd Thompson Lloyd Thompson is the founder of VirtualDOO, a fractional Director of Operations service that helps busy founders escape the day-to-day and scale with purpose. He is also the author of "9 Ways to Leave Your Day-to-Day Operations", a practical guide for business owners ready to step out of operational chaos and back into strategic leadership. With over 20 years of corporate and global operations experience, Lloyd has led large-scale banking, trading, and technology platforms across Sydney, Manila, India, New York, and London — including systems responsible for billions of dollars in investment. Today, he applies those same principles to SMEs, marketing agencies, ecommerce brands, coaches, educators, and service-based businesses. Lloyd specialises in: Liberating founders from operational overwhelm Building accountable, owner-led teams Installing rhythms, dashboards, and feedback loops Creating predictable, scalable operations Key Topics Covered → Why your business feels busy but never truly scales → Founder dependency and the €3–15M growth trap → Delegation, ownership, and accountability done right → The psychology behind letting go as a founder → Operational smoothness vs operational chaos → Building systems that free up founder time → Vision, values, and right people in the right seats → Turning chaos into clarity through process and rhythm → How to scale revenue without sacrificing life and health Who Should Listen This episode is essential for SME founders, agency owners, ecommerce leaders, coaches, consultants, and service-based business owners who feel overwhelmed, time-poor, and stuck in the weeds. If your business relies too heavily on you, struggles with accountability, or feels busy but fragile, this conversation will help you see exactly what needs to change. About Lloyd...

Sunny Lenarduzzi explains whether YouTube is the right platform for businesses and solopreneurs looking to scale their reach and impact. In this clip, Sunny dives into who can benefit from YouTube, the difference between a mass audience and a targeted one, and how leveraging YouTube strategically can generate leads, revenue, and global impact without spending a dime on advertising. KEY INSIGHTS: - YouTube works best for businesses with subject matter experts who provide real value - Small, highly-targeted audiences are often more profitable than mass audiences - YouTube is an evergreen, search-based platform, unlike on-demand social media channels - Organic video content can create leads, sales, and authority over time - The combination of YouTube and AI tools can amplify your impact and efficiency THE CRITICAL LESSON: It's not about going viral; it's about reaching the right people. Sunny's advice: "You don't need a huge audience. You need the people who are ready to invest in what you do and benefit the most from your expertise." PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS FOR ENTREPRENEURS AND BUSINESSES: - Focus on creating content for your ideal audience, not everyone - Treat YouTube as a search engine and content library, not just a social media channel - Validate and deliver value through content before scaling programs or offers - Leverage organic visibility to create sustainable, profitable growth - Consider global reach—help people beyond your geographic area through video CONNECT WITH SUNNY LENARDUZZI 🔗 LinkedIn: /sunnylenarduzzi 🔗 Website: https://sunnylenarduzzi.com WATCH FULL EPISODE: 🔗 [Link to full Sunny Lenarduzzi episode] SCALEX™ AND SIMPLE SCALING: 📖 Book: Simple Scaling: 10 Proven Principles to 10x Your Business 🔗 ScaleX Elevate Community: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-elevate 🔗 ScaleX Accelerator Programme: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme 🔗 Website: https://simplescaling.com 📧 Email: hello@simplescaling.com 📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplescaling About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling: ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling—creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme, a 12-month journey for ambitious entrepreneurs combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through revenue plateaus. 🔗 Learn more: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme

Sunny Lenarduzzi reveals the step-by-step journey of how she went from a one-woman social media consultancy to a YouTube authority helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses. In this clip, Sunny shares her initial experiment with YouTube, how answering client questions turned into millions of viewers, and how she discovered a sustainable way to leverage her expertise through online programs and organic video marketing. KEY INSIGHTS: THE CRITICAL LESSON: You don't need fame or a huge audience to succeed on YouTube. Sunny's advice: "Start with solving the real problems your clients are asking you about. Visibility will follow, and opportunities will come to you." PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS FOR ENTREPRENEURS: TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 How Sunny got started on YouTube and why she chose the platform 01:15 The experiment that led to 3M views and 50,000 subscribers in 12 months 02:45 Turning repetitive client questions into scalable video content 04:00 First speaking engagements and growing opportunities globally 05:30 Discovering the power of online courses to scale expertise 07:00 Building a cohesive client journey and organic marketing strategy CONNECT WITH SUNNY LENARDUZZI: 🔗 LinkedIn: /sunnylenarduzzi 🔗 Website: https://sunnylenarduzzi.com WATCH FULL EPISODE: 🔗 [Link to full Sunny Lenarduzzi episode] SCALEX™ AND SIMPLE SCALING: 📖 Book: Simple Scaling: 10 Proven Principles to 10x Your Business 🔗 ScaleX Elevate Community: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-elevate 🔗 ScaleX Accelerator Programme: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme 🔗 Website: https://simplescaling.com 📧 Email: hello@simplescaling.com 📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplescalingAbout ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling: ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling—creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme, a 12-month journey for ambitious entrepreneurs combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through revenue plateaus. 🔗 Learn more: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme

What if you could scale your business, grow your income, and expand your impact using YouTube—without spending a dime on ads? In this episode, Sunny Lenarduzzi, a social media consultant, business growth coach, and expert in online education, reveals how entrepreneurs can leverage YouTube and video marketing to build profitable, sustainable businesses that scale. From targeting the right audience to creating content that converts, Sunny shares the step-by-step strategies behind her Authority Accelerator program, which has generated over $15 million in monthly revenue for clients. Host Brendan McGurgan dives deep with Sunny into the world of online courses, content strategy, and YouTube marketing, exploring how SMEs and entrepreneurs can reach a global audience, monetise their expertise, and create freedom in both business and life. Episode Highlights: Meet Sunny Lenarduzzi Sunny Lenarduzzi is a social media consultant, business growth coach, and philanthropist known for helping experts leverage video marketing to build successful online businesses. She has worked with clients across industries including tech startups, authors, and online course creators. Sunny is a recognised public speaker, having presented at NATO Headquarters and on national radio and television, and is the recipient of the Best in Social Media award for Western Canada. Sunny helps entrepreneurs scale their income, impact, and authority through her proven Authority Accelerator framework, empowering them to show up authentically, deliver incredible value, and achieve personal and professional freedom. Key Topics Covered: → Targeting the right audience for profitable growth → Building an evergreen YouTube strategy that generates leads over time → The Authority Accelerator format and how it drives revenue → Structuring content around real problems your audience faces → Maximizing ROI with minimal production investment → Calls-to-action and email list strategies for lead generation → Commitment and patience as critical factors for long-term success → Leveraging AI tools to optimize content creation → Overcoming mindset blocks and fear of putting yourself on camera Who Should Listen: This episode is essential for SME founders, entrepreneurs, coaches, consultants, and online course creators who want to grow their income, impact, and authority using YouTube. Anyone seeking actionable strategies to leverage video, scale their business, and create personal freedom will benefit from Sunny's expertise. About Sunny Lenarduzzi: Sunny Lenarduzzi is a social media strategist, business growth coach, and entrepreneur dedicated to helping experts scale their businesses with video marketing. Through her YouTube channel, consulting, online programs, and speaking engagements, Sunny empowers entrepreneurs to leverage their expertise, create profitable online businesses, and reach audiences worldwide. Website: https://sunnylenarduzzi.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunnylenarduzzi About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling — creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme. A 12-month journey for ambitious SME leaders combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through growth plateaus. Host: Brendan McGurgan Website: simplescaling.com Subscribe & Listen Watch on YouTube: Simple Scaling Channel Listen on Apple Podcasts: ScaleX Insider Listen on Spotify: ScaleX Insider

Most people think walking is just exercise. Michael J. Gelb says it's the engine of genius. For centuries, the world's greatest thinkers used walking as their main source of inspiration — and they even invented tools to measure how much of it they were doing. In this clip, Michael reveals a surprising truth: the first pedometer wasn't invented by Fitbit — it was invented by Leonardo da Vinci. Why the Geniuses Walked: As Michael researched the relationship between history's greatest minds and walking, one pattern became impossible to ignore: A book about geniuses who didn't rely on walking for inspiration would be very, very short. Da Vinci walked with such elegance that villagers came out just to watch his movement. Thomas Jefferson also invented his own pedometer — "Thomas meters" — because he believed people would walk more if they could measure their steps. Poets like Emily Dickinson, Mary Oliver, and philosophers like Thomas Hobbes all used walking to spark ideas. Hobbes even built an inkwell into his walking stick so he could write mid-stride. Why Walking Creates Ideas: Michael explains that while much of the evidence throughout history is anecdotal, modern scientific research now backs it up: Walking increases creativity, stimulates new connections in the brain, and unlocks solutions that sitting still often suppresses. The Universal Pattern: Across music, literature, philosophy, science, and leadership, walking shows up as the ultimate inspiration habit: Beethoven composing in the fields Mary Oliver stopping mid-walk to write Jefferson drafting the foundations of a nation Da Vinci inventing a pedometer centuries ahead of his time The Real Question: Is walking inspiring these ideas — or are inspired people naturally drawn to walking? According to Michael, the research points strongly to the first. Walking doesn't just correlate with inspiration. It causes it. Key Takeaway: If you want better ideas, don't sit at your desk waiting for them. Move. Walk. Carry a notebook. Let your mind unspool in motion — just like the geniuses did. About Michael J. Gelb: Internationally renowned author and leadership expert, known for "How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci," with over one million copies sold worldwide. A pioneer in creativity, innovation, and executive development, he helps leaders elevate their presence, unlock their best ideas, and cultivate cultures grounded in awareness, poise, and authentic connection. SCALEX™ AND SIMPLE SCALING: 📖 Book: Simple Scaling: 10 Proven Principles to 10x Your Business 🔗 ScaleX Elevate Community: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-elevate 🔗 ScaleX Accelerator Programme: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme 🔗 Website: https://simplescaling.com 📧 Email: hello@simplescaling.com 📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplescaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling—creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme, a 12-month journey for ambitious SME leaders combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through revenue plateaus. 🔗 Learn more: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme #ConnectionWalks #MeetingCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #TeamBuilding #SMEGrowth

Most leaders try to fix executive presence with confidence hacks, posture tricks, or communication frameworks. But as Michael J. Gelb explains, presence isn't about what you do — it's about what you stop doing. And nothing reveals this better than the Alexander Technique, the same methodology taught at the world's leading performance schools: the Royal Academy of Music, the Royal Academy of Drama, and Juilliard. It's also the foundation behind Michael's first book Body: An Introduction to the Alexander Technique. Why Most Leaders Repel Their Teams Without Realising It Walk into a room barking orders and people instinctively want to flee — especially creative, high-performing thinkers. But walk in with natural ease, openness, and curiosity, and everything changes. As Michael puts it: "The leaders people trust aren't the ones who tell you what to do. They're the ones who ask what's up for you — and how they can support you." What the Alexander Technique Really Teaches Alexander Technique is not about standing tall or fixing your posture. It's about retraining your nervous system so you can return to the natural poise you had as a child — upright, open-faced, free, and unarmoured. Michael trained three years in London to be able to guide others into this state through subtle, refined touch: Ease replaces tension Presence replaces intimidation Breath replaces bracing Openness replaces contraction It's the hidden foundation of true executive presence. A High-Pressure Coaching Story That Says It All Michael coached a CEO in a deeply tense, high-stakes Zoom meeting — board members, investors, and the executive chair all present. The CEO was intimidated, fidgeting, collapsing in on himself. Michael typed a single message in the Zoom chat: "Hands on the desk, palms up. Align through your vertical axis. Add a little smile." The CEO shifted — subtly, but profoundly. And suddenly, the entire room treated him differently. Because, as Michael says: "We teach people how to treat us. The most organised nervous system dominates the proceedings." Why Walking Is the Secret Accelerator Michael and co-author Bruce Fertman both realised that walking well is one of the fastest ways to embody the Alexander Technique. With just the first section of their book Walking Well, readers can transform how they move, breathe, and show up — without a single in-person lesson. Their vision: A global conscious walking community, guided by facilitators, grounded in ease, openness, and natural poise. Key Takeaways Executive presence is mostly about what you stop doing Natural poise is your birthright — tension and armor are learned A tiny shift in your nervous system changes how people respond to you The most regulated nervous system leads the room Walking well accelerates all Alexander Technique principles You can begin transforming your presence in minutes, not months About Michael J. Gelb: Internationally renowned author and leadership expert, known for "How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci," with over one million copies sold worldwide. A pioneer in creativity, innovation, and executive development, he helps leaders elevate their presence, unlock their best ideas, and cultivate cultures grounded in awareness, poise, and authentic connection. SCALEX™ AND SIMPLE SCALING: 📖 Book: Simple Scaling: 10 Proven Principles to 10x Your Business 🔗 ScaleX Elevate Community: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-elevate 🔗 ScaleX Accelerator Programme: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme 🔗 Website: https://simplescaling.com 📧 Email: hello@simplescaling.com 📱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplescaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling—creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme, a 12-month journey for ambitious SME leaders combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through revenue plateaus. 🔗 Learn more:...