Andrew Spira is the founder of Skyecap ( https://skyecap.com.au/ ), a fintech company that provides fast funding solutions for small businesses. Andrew shares his journey as a serial entrepreneur and discusses the innovative use of AI in automating loan approvals, allowing for funding in as little as two hours. He highlights the challenges faced by small businesses in securing finance and how Skyecap addresses these issues. The conversation also covers the typical Skyecap customer, case studies of successful funding, interest rates, and the importance of leveraging debt for business growth.

In this Spotlight episode, Skyecap founder Andrew Spira flicks the switch on how:

• Skyecap provides funding as fast as two hours.
• AI plays a crucial role in automating loan approvals.
• Documentation and time in business are major pain points for SMEs.
• Skyecap has a high approval rate of 90%.
• The typical Skyecap customer is a small business owner aged 40-55.
• Interest rates for Skyecap loans start at 20% per annum.
• Andrew encourages leveraging debt for business growth.
• Skyecap's application process is streamlined and efficient.
• Case studies illustrate Skyecap's positive impact on businesses
• Andrew plans to expand Skyecap into the UK and New Zealand.
• Borrow funds quickly and easily using Skyecap.

Andrew Spira of Skyecap - Key Takeaways ...

• Skyecap provides funding as fast as two hours.
• AI has revolutionised the loan approval process.
• Documentation is a major pain point for SMEs.
• Skyecap approves 90% of loan applications.
• The typical Skyecap customer is a small business owner.
• Interest rates for Skyecap loans are higher than traditional banks.
• Speed of response is crucial in customer service so Skyecap responds promptly.
• Skyecap is expanding into the UK and New Zealand in 2025.
• Andrew believes in leveraging debt for business growth.
• Skyecap focuses on business loans, not personal loans.

In Andrew's own words ...

Skyecap's the newest private lender in the Australian market, but we’re backed by years of industry experience and have the systems in place to get your business where it needs to be, fast. Whatever you need, we want you to take the next big step in your business. Get fast business loans with Australia’s newest private lender Skyecap. Ignite your business with funds in your account within two hours.

Listen to other episodes of The Small Business Big Marketing Spotlight here - https://smallbusinessbigmarketing.com/spotlight .

And if you're a business owner focussed on improving the marketing of your business then you'll love The Small Business Big Marketing Podcast which you can listen to here - https://smallbusinessbigmarketing.com/podcasts .

Thanks for tuning in. May your business shine.

Tim Reid

#Skyecap #AndrewSpira #fintech #AI #smallbusinessfunding #fastloans #smefinance #interestrates #businessloans #casestudies

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Mike Paulus of Encore Investments is today's guest, who's a successful entrepreneur in the FinTech sector. Mike shares his journey of bootstrapping businesses, emphasising the importance of customer focus, identifying overlooked problems, and leveraging technology, particularly AI, to enhance business efficiency. He discusses the significance of metrics in driving growth and the strategic approach of choosing the right customers for long-term success. Mike's insights provide valuable lessons for entrepreneurs looking to navigate the complexities of business growth and customer satisfaction.

Takeaways

• Bootstrapping is viable in certain industries, but not all.
• Customer focus is crucial; measure and improve customer satisfaction.
• Identify overlooked problems in less competitive markets.
• Leverage technology and AI to enhance business efficiency.
• Choose customers wisely; long-term relationships matter.
• Understand your business's unit economics for sustainable growth.
• Be self-critical and continuously seek improvement.
• Invest in technology to streamline operations and improve service.
• Measure everything; data-driven decisions lead to success.
• A positive mindset and a focus on incremental improvements are key.

Chapters

00:00 Bootstrapping Success: The Journey Begins
09:05 Customer Focus: The Heart of Business
15:59 Identifying Overlooked Problems: Fishing in Your Own Pond
25:00 AI in Business: Embracing Technology for Efficiency
30:02 Choosing Your Customers: Building Meaningful Relationships

Mike Paulus in his own words

Michael Paulus is a recognised corporate leader who built two successful financial technology companies, which collectively report on more than $6 trillion of assets. Michael’s previous ventures have helped millions of Americans meet their financial goals and asset protection needs.

Michael is a financial thought leader, who holds two patents for his innovations in financial technology. Both of these inventions help financial institutions and advisors better understand and manage client portfolios.

Michael is a graduate of Stanford University, where he combined his love of finance and technology to earn an undergraduate degree in Economics and a Master’s degree in Management Science and Engineering. While at Stanford, Michael helped manage the Charles R. Blyth Fund, a student-run investment portfolio that invests a portion of Stanford University's nearly $37 billion endowment.

Michael has deep expertise in alternative investments, including experience as a Partner at Andreessen-Horowitz, a leading Venture Capital firm that manages more than $42 billion and a General Partner at ACG, a real estate firm responsible for more than $2 billion of developed properties.

PCM Encore (Encore Investment)

Hawx Pest Control

Listen to other episodes of The Small Business Big Marketing Spotlight here. And if you’re a business owner focussed on improving the marketing of your business then you’ll love The Small Business Big Marketing Podcast which you can listen to here.

Thanks for tuning in. May your business shine.

Tim Reid

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charles Burt & Omar Parker of Egerton Crescent Productions share their journey of building a successful production company and creating impactful content. Starting in college, they used networking and cold emails to connect with filmmakers. Attending Sundance in 2018 marked a turning point with two short films in competition and valuable industry connections. They discuss working with YouTubers like MrBeast and Preston, learning the importance of grabbing audience attention.

In this Spotlight episode, Charles & Omar flick the switch on:

• How they got their start in a college dorm
• The power of just doing it!
• How to network effectively in the film industry
• Why they wrote a Japanese poetry book
• How and why they had a billboard in Times Square!
• What they learnt working alongside YouTube stars Mr. Beast and Preston.

Check out all of Omar and Charles's work over at the Egerton Crescent Productions.

Charles Burt of Egerton Crescent Productions Key Takeaways ...

1. Building a successful production company requires networking and reaching out to filmmakers to grow your network.
2. Attending industry events like Sundance can be a catalyst for career growth and networking opportunities.
3. Working with YouTubers can provide insights into audience connection and the importance of grabbing attention from the start.
4. Creating impactful content involves understanding what your audience cares about and adapting strategies to stand out in a competitive media landscape.
5. They are involved in web-based content creation and have their own YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram channels.
6. The entertainment industry has faced challenges with the rise of streaming services and the impact of COVID-19.
7. The barrier to entry in the industry has been lowered, allowing more people to create and share their content.
8. Having a good idea and storytelling skills are still crucial in getting noticed.
9. The company has ventured into other creative projects, such as publishing a haiku book and running a billboard campaign in Times Square.

In Charles's own words - Charles Burt is a British-American global media executive. Burt's projects have been in competition at such festivals as Festival de Cannes, Sundance, Tribeca, TIFF, Berlinale, Sitges, and more. His film works are distributed by Canal+, Shudder, Amazon Prime, Gravitas Ventures and other major brands. Burt strives to balance creativity and commercial mass appeal in his work.

Listen to other episodes of The Small Business Big Marketing Spotlight here. And if you're a business owner focussed on improving the marketing of your business then you'll love The Small Business Big Marketing Podcast which you can listen to here.

Thanks for tuning in. May your business shine.

Tim Reid

#CharlesBurt #OmarParker #EgertonCrescentProductions #ProductionCompany #Filmmaking #Networking #Sundance #ShortFilms #YouTubers #AudienceConnection #FilmProduction #HorrorGenre #WebBasedContent #EntertainmentIndustry #StreamingServices #BarrierToEntry #Storytelling #HaikuBook #BillboardCampaign #TimReid #SmallBusinessBigMarketingSpotlight

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Andrew Spira, a serial entrepreneur and recovered drug addict, shares his compelling story of transformation and redemption. From living in a $10 million house to ending up in jail, Andrew hit rock bottom before seeking recovery. He discusses his experiences in jail and the challenges he faced after getting out. Andrew emphasises the importance of routine and daily practices in maintaining sobriety and staying focused on positive goals. He also talks about his advocacy work in Vanuatu and his plans to create a support network for recovering addicts.

In this Spotlight episode, Andrew Spira flicks the switch on:

• How he turned his life around and went on to make millions
• How his past struggles shaped his success in real estate and other ventures
• Business-building tips for the budding entrepreneur who's dealing with addiction
• Plus Andrew will take us inside his advocacy work in Vanuatu

Andrew Spira's Key Takeaways ...

1. Addiction can lead to rock bottom, but it is possible to turn your life around and find success.
2. Routine and daily practices are crucial in maintaining sobriety and staying focused on positive goals.
3. Building relationships and fostering authentic love and friendships can be challenging for those who have struggled with addiction.
4. Everyone deserves a second chance, and it is important to support and provide opportunities for those in recovery.
5. Advocacy work and giving back to the community can be a meaningful way to make a positive impact.

In Andrew's own words - I'm a highly motivated and physically fit person who thrives on challenges. In my spare time, I enjoy travelling and long-distance running. Keen to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, business leaders, and others who share my passion for financial services and technology.

Listen to other episodes of The Small Business Big Marketing Spotlight here. And if you're a business owner focussed on improving the marketing of your business then you'll love The Small Business Big Marketing Podcast which you can listen to here.

Thanks for tuning in. May your business shine.

Tim Reid

#AndrewSpira #smallbusinesstips #smallbusinesspodcast #smallbusinessbigmarketingspotlight #Spira #recoveringfromaddiction

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marcella Guidry is the dynamic owner of Belle L'adore, a 10-year-old beauty brand renowned for its natural skincare products. Belle L'adore offers luxurious body butter, liquid butter, and deodorant, all handcrafted with natural ingredients. Marcella's journey began when her daughter reacted to store-bought lotions, prompting her to create gentle, effective skincare solutions. Discover how Belle L'adore stands out in a crowded market, the importance of natural ingredients, and Marcella's vision for the future.

In this Spotlight episode, Belle L'adore founder Marcella Guidry flicks the switch on:

• What inspired her to create a bespoke natural skincare range
• Why she's laser-focussed on natural ingredients
• How she competes in such a crowded marketplace
• And her hopes and dreams for the future of Belle L'adore

Check out all of Marcelle's natural skincare products over at the Belle L'adore's online store.

Belle L'adore founder Marcelle Guidry's Key Takeaways ...

1. Using natural ingredients and homemade products can be better for the skin and overall health.
2. The beauty industry is dominated by big brands that often use chemicals in their products.
3. Educating consumers about the benefits of natural skincare is important.
4. Belle L'adore aims to expand its reach and potentially collaborate with larger retailers or open a physical store.

In Marcella's own words - I wanted to create something beautiful, so I created Belle L'adore, 100% handmade, with all natural ingredients. No water or waxes, no harmful ingredients or useless fillers. I wanted something for all skin types and something you can proudly display, something that makes you love and adore your skin and is both healthy and beneficial. After 10 years of creating and recreating, I'm proud to share with you Belle L'adore.

Listen to other episodes of The Small Business Big Marketing Spotlight here. And if you're a business owner focussed on improving the marketing of your business then you'll love The Small Business Big Marketing Podcast which you can listen to here.

Thanks for tuning in. May your business shine.

Tim Reid

#MarcellaGuidry #BelleLadore #NaturalSkincare #EcoFriendlyBeauty #RadiantSkin #OrganicBeauty #SkinCareExpert #EcoConciousLiving #BeautyTips #HealthySkin #SustainableSkincare #TimReid #SmallBusinessBigMarketingSpotlight

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kim Williams, owner of Shanti Life, a hemp and CBD business, discusses the uses and benefits of hemp, the challenges of operating in the industry, and her own product line, Woke Botanicals. She emphasises the importance of integrating wellness practices into daily life and offers tips for relaxation and stress relief.

In this Spotlight episode, Kim Williams flicks the switch on:

• Hemp - its uses and well-being benefits
• The mainstream corporate takeover of the Hemp industry, and how the little guys can still compete
• We’ll explore how Kim has created her own line of well-being products she’s sells online and off
• Plus I’ll get Kim to share how we can integrate little well-being hacks into our lives to feel just that little bit better.

Check out all of Kim's Hemp products over at the Shanti Life store.

Shanti Life founder Kim William's Key Takeaways ...

1. Hemp is an industrial plant that offers various health benefits, including relaxation, anxiety relief, and inflammation reduction.
2. The hemp industry is facing challenges due to the corporate takeover and regulatory issues.
3. Integrating wellness practices into daily life can be achieved through deep breathing and finding humor in stressful situations.
4. Kim Williams created her own product line, Woke Botanicals, to ensure high-quality and effective CBD products.

In Kim's own words - Founder and owner Kim Williams has been in the health space for as long as she can remember. Her life is a continuous journey to learn about the mind, body, spirit, nutrition, health, fitness, and relaxation methods. She has practiced holistic face and bodywork therapy for over 20 years and has taught yoga and various complementary therapies for over 20 years.Kim’s personal experience has given her a drive and passion for helping others achieve a better version of themselves through natural remedies. If you’re in Warwick, drop in and say hi; Kim will welcome you warmly to Shanti Life.

Listen to other episodes of The Small Business Big Marketing Spotlight here. And if you're a business owner focussed on improving the marketing of your business then you'll love The Small Business Big Marketing Podcast which you can listen to here.Thanks for tuning in. May your business shine.

Tim Reid

#kimwilliams #shantlilife #medicinalmarijuana #hemp #CBD #wellbeing #holistic #business #health #wellness #relaxation #stressrelief #wokebotanicals #holisticwellbeing #smallbusinessbigmarketingspotlight #timreid

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chad Allen, founder of Convenit Consultants, shares insights on crafting bespoke financial strategies for businesses in diverse global markets. His travel experience and understanding of local market conditions shape his business approach. Chad emphasises the need for customised strategies and the challenges of emerging markets. His expertise spans financial operations, legal aspects, taxation, risk management, and other considerations. He offers top-tier global consulting with a personalised touch and provides a free consultation for businesses looking to expand internationally.

In this Spotlight episode, Chad Allen flicks the switch on:

• How his extensive travel experience has shaped his approach to financial strategy consulting.
• A real-world example of a business Chad's supporting in their offshore endeavours.
• Why are tailoring financial strategies to the specific requirements of an organisation’s host country ia essential to ensure success in global markets.
• Plus many more actionable business insights.

Contact Chad to make a no-obligation appointment.

Chad Allen's Key Takeaways ...

1. Tailoring bespoke financial strategies is crucial for businesses operating in diverse global markets.
2. Understanding local market conditions and cultural nuances is essential for successful international business strategies.
3. Convenit Consulting offers top-tier global consulting expertise with a personalised touch, addressing financial operations, legal aspects, taxation, risk management, and HR considerations.
4. Businesses looking to expand internationally can benefit from a free consultation with Convenit Consulting, helping them save time, money, and alleviate frustrations in the process.

In Chad's own words - With over 18 years of work experience, I am a passionate and driven leader with a mission to provide innovative solutions and opportunities for businesses and communities across borders. I have a strong background in finance, accounting, and entrepreneurship, with a CPA and an MBA from the Kelley School of Business. I am the founder and CEO of Convenit, a consulting firm that helps clients navigate the challenges and opportunities of international business, and Convenit Holdings, an investment company that supports the telecom and broadband industry in Africa.

Listen to other episodes of The Small Business Big Marketing Spotlight here.

And if you're a business owner focussed on improving the marketing of your business then you'll love The Small Business Big Marketing Podcast which you can listen to here.

Thanks for tuning in. May your business shine.

Tim Reid

#ChadAllen #ConvenientConsulting #TimReid #SmallBusinessBigMarketing #GlobalBusiness #FinancialStrategy #BusinessConsulting #InternationalMarkets #EntrepreneurSpotlight #BusinessInsights #smallbusinesstips #smallbusinesspodcast #smallbusinessbigmarketingspotlight

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

J.D. Barker, an international bestselling author, discusses the importance of book covers, his transition from a corporate job to becoming an author, and his views on the broken traditional publishing model. He also shares insights on working with co-authors, the impact of Stephen King on his career, and the future of publishing.

In this Spotlight episode, J.D. Barker flicks the switch on:

• How he got his start as an author, and getting his first book to market
• What role Stephen King plated in J.D.'s early career
• Why the traditional publishing model is broken and what J.D.'s doing about it.
• Revenue streams for authors in 2024 and beyond.
• And how J.D. is helping co-authors get a start.

Check out all the books J.D. Barker has written here.

J.D. Barker's Key Takeaways ...

1. The importance of book covers in the success of a book, and the difference between indie publishing and traditional publishing.
2. The transition from a corporate job to becoming a successful author, and the challenges and rewards of this career change.
3. Insights into the broken traditional publishing model and the emergence of a new approach to publishing.
4. The impact of Stephen King on J.D. Barker's career and the significance of influential mentors in the author's journey.
5. The future of publishing and the role of co-authors in the creative and business aspects of writing and publishing.

In J.D. Barker's own words - I'm an international bestselling author known for suspense novels that often blend elements of horror, crime, and the supernatural. My works include titles like "The Fourth Monkey" and "Behind a Closed Door." Besides writing, I host the Writers Inc. podcast, and I'm deeply engaged in discussions about the evolving state of the publishing industry, particularly the challenges and innovations shaping it in 2024. I've also experimented with the publishing model, blending traditional and indie methods to maximize control over my work. As I continue to navigate the dual roles of writer and industry innovator, I aim to empower other authors with the tools and knowledge to succeed in this challenging space. Whether it's through co-authoring, workshops, or podcasting, my goal is to make a lasting impact on the publishing industry.

Listen to other episodes of The Small Business Big Marketing Spotlight here.

And if you're a business owner focussed on improving the marketing of your business then you'll love The Small Business Big Marketing Podcast which you can listen to here.

Thanks for tuning in. May your business shine.

Tim Reid

#JDBarker
#SuspenseAuthor
#PublishingIndustry
#smallbusinessbigmarketingspotlight
#smallbusinesspodcast
#smallbusinesstips
#StephenKing
#IndiePublishing
#WritersIncPodcast
#BookMarketing
#AuthorInterview
#JamesPatterson
#WritingProcess

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