Small Business Sorted with Kay & Crystal: Practical Advice for Australian Small Businesses

Send us Fan Mail The economy is changing quickly, and small business owners are facing rising costs, cautious customers, tighter cash flow and continued uncertainty. So, what should you focus on during the next 90 days? Recorded live during NSW Small Business Month, this special episode of Small Business Sorted Live brings together an experienced panel to discuss the current economy, the challenges facing small businesses and the practical actions owners can take now. Meet the panel Michael Miller – Director of Mediation Services at the NSW Small Business Commission Wendy Lloyd Curley – Executive Director of BNI Sydney North East and an experienced business owner, professional speaker and networking specialist Andrew Lawrence – Owner of The Alternative Board for Sydney’s Upper North Shore and Hornsby, business coach and fractional CEO Hosted by Crystal Petzer and Kay Godfrey from Small Business Sorted Live The panel’s central message is clear: we cannot control the economy, but we can control how we manage our businesses, respond to change and prepare for what lies ahead. In this episode, we discuss: What the current economic conditions mean for small businesses Why the next 90 days are particularly important How to prepare for Christmas and the quieter January period Why cash flow should be reviewed every week The benefits of creating a 13-week cash-flow forecast Why business owners should follow up outstanding accounts before Christmas How to protect your pricing by adding value instead of discounting What changing customer behaviour means for your sales process Why sales are taking longer and customers are spending more carefully How to identify opportunities during difficult economic conditions Why good employees may be more available in the current market How AI and automation can reduce repetitive work and operating costs The importance of having trusted advisers, mentors and fellow business owners around you Why networking, partnerships and community become even more valuable in uncertain times How to protect your own wellbeing and support your team The assistance available through the NSW Small Business Commission How mediation can help resolve commercial and retail lease disputes The panel also discusses the importance of being realistic without becoming paralysed by negative news. Some businesses will struggle, some will close and others will emerge or find new opportunities. Your ability to manage cash, protect your margins and make timely decisions will be critical. The live audience completed a practical exercise to identify: Three recent business wins One opportunity to pursue One potential threat The most important action to take during the next 90 days This episode is not about creating another complicated business plan. It is about understanding your present position, deciding what you can control and taking focused action. Whether you are a sole trader, service provider, consultant, tradesperson or growing business owner, this conversation will help you approach the next 90 days with greater clarity, confidence and support. You cannot control the economic weather—but you can control how you steer the boat. Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail Are repetitive admin, disconnected systems and inefficient processes taking you away from the work you actually enjoy? In this episode of Small Business Sorted, Kay and Crystal speak with Natalie from You Do You about how small business owners can use better processes, automation and AI to reduce admin, save time and create a business that runs more smoothly. Natalie brings more than 20 years of experience in IT, business analysis and project management. She has also experienced the realities of running her own business, growing Mama Kombucha from a kitchen-bench idea into a production facility with staff, wholesale customers and a busy market schedule. After experiencing the pressure of rapid growth, staffing challenges, COVID disruptions and burnout, Natalie now helps other business owners avoid the same trap. She explains why introducing more technology is not always the answer. Sometimes the greatest improvement comes from examining how the work is being done, removing double handling and simplifying the process. In one business, a small process change saved approximately 68 hours of administration every year without adding any new technology. In this episode, we discuss: • The difference between AI and automation • How poor processes create unnecessary admin and stress • Why your original business systems may no longer support your growth • How to identify bottlenecks and repetitive tasks • When to improve a process before automating it • Practical ways to use ChatGPT and Claude in a small business • Connecting AI with email, your CRM, Xero and other business systems • Turning repetitive work into reusable AI skills • How AI agents could manage tasks and achieve business outcomes • Using automation to improve sales follow-up and marketing • Why AI should free people to do more valuable, human-focused work • The importance of password managers and secure access • What business owners should never enter into an AI platform • How to start using AI without becoming overwhelmed Natalie also shares her personal journey from South Africa to London and then Sydney, her experience building and exiting Mama Kombucha, and the lessons she learned about growth, resilience, systems and knowing when it is time to take a different direction. Her message is simple: technology should make your life easier not create another layer of complexity. If you are a small business owner who feels buried in admin, frustrated by double handling or curious about how AI and automation could help your business, this practical and honest conversation is for you. Listen now to discover how better processes can give you more time to focus on your customers, your strengths and the reason you started your business in the first place. W: http://youdoyou.work/ . Insta: https://www.instagram.com/youdoyou.work/ . FB: https://www.facebook.com/youdoyou.work/ Connect with Kay and Crystal: Crystal Petzer: https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey: https://upupandaway.net.au/ Listen to Small Business Sorted on Radio Northern Beaches, 88.7 or 90.3 FM: https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email: radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If you enjoyed this episode, follow Small Business Sorted and share it with a business owner who needs to spend less time on admin and more time growing their business. Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail Are you building a profitable one-person business or have you simply created an exhausting job for yourself? More people are becoming solopreneurs, freelancers, consultants and self-employed business owners. Technology, contractors, virtual assistants and AI have made it possible to build a successful business without employing a large permanent team. But staying small does not automatically mean staying profitable. In this episode, business growth coach Crystal Petzer and bookkeeper Kay Godfrey explore how to create a profitable one-person business without working every hour of the day. You’ll discover: • The difference between owning a business and simply working for yourself • How to price your services to cover tax, retirement contributions, leave and business expenses • Why revenue and turnover are not the same as profit • How to avoid becoming dependent on one major customer • The systems every solo business owner needs • How AI, automation and cloud software can save time • What to outsource before employing permanent staff • How to use contractors and virtual assistants effectively • Ways to increase revenue through packages, retainers, minimum charges and value-based pricing • What to do when you reach your personal capacity • Why staying small can be an intentional and profitable business strategy Crystal and Kay also discuss the less glamorous realities of working alone including isolation, procrastination, inconsistent marketing, late invoicing and keeping every business process in your head. Whether you call yourself a solopreneur, sole trader, freelancer, consultant, independent contractor or one-person business owner, this episode offers practical advice for building a business that supports your income, lifestyle and long-term goals. You don’t need a large team to build a successful business but you do need the right pricing, systems, support and financial discipline. Small Business Sorted with Kay and Crystal is an Australian business podcast sharing practical, straightforward advice for small business owners in Australia, New Zealand, the United States and beyond. Follow the podcast and share this episode with someone who is building a business on their own. Small Business Sorted with Kay and Crystal is an Australian small business podcast recorded on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Each episode provides practical, straightforward advice for Australian business owners who want better cash flow, stronger systems, improved profitability and a business that works for them. Follow Small Business Sorted so you don’t miss an episode. If you know a solo business owner who needs to hear this conversation, please share it with them. Connect with us: Crystal Petzer – Business Growth Coach https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey – Up Up and Away Bookkeeping https://upupandaway.net.au/ Listen to Small Business Sorted on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube. #OnePersonBusiness #Solopreneur #SmallBusinessAustralia #BusinessGrowth #AustralianBusiness Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Kay pretends to be a small gym owner but the real value isn’t in the gym example. It’s in the one‑page business plan framework that works for every small business, no matter the industry. We walk through the exact questions and decisions every owner needs to make: personal goals, business priorities, systems, customer retention, market expansion, staff culture, and competitive advantage. The gym scenario simply gives us a relatable way to demonstrate how the plan works in real life. Whether you run a gym, a studio, a consultancy, a retail shop, or any small business, this episode gives you a simple, practical plan you can print, stick on your wall, and actually follow. What you’ll learn: How to build a one‑page business plan that works for ANY small business The #1 improvement most owners need in their first 12 months How to identify new markets and strengthen your value proposition Why systems matter more than motivation How to create loyalty through personal connection Staff culture strategies that apply across all industries How to reduce business risk with simple, repeatable processes Why this episode matters: Even though the example is a boutique gym, the thinking applies universally. If you’re a small business owner who wants clarity, direction, and a plan that doesn’t live in a 40‑page document you’ll never read again, this is your episode. Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail What does a buyer’s agent actually do, and how can they help you secure the right property in Sydney’s competitive market? In this episode of Small Business Sorted , Kay and Crystal speak with Simon Dean, Director of Lock & Key Property Buyers, about the journey behind one of Sydney’s Northern Beaches buyer’s agencies. Simon shares how his wife and business partner, Hayley Woods, founded Lock & Key and how they grew it from a small operation into an established team servicing Sydney’s Northern Beaches and Lower North Shore. The conversation explores Simon and Hayley’s move from the UK to Australia, their experience in property and residential development, and the realities of building a successful business together. Simon also explains why finding an off-market property is only part of the equation. The property, price and opportunity must all work together and a good buyer’s agent should be a trusted adviser who is prepared to tell you when not to buy. In this episode, we discuss: What a buyer’s agent does and how they represent the buyer Buying property on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and Lower North Shore The difference between the Australian, UK and US property markets How Simon and Hayley built Lock & Key Property Buyers Why off-market property is not always a good opportunity Growing a business with your spouse Dividing responsibilities according to individual strengths Creating a strong team culture Building systems, processes and a tailored CRM Maintaining a consistent sales and follow-up pipeline Why effective marketing requires multiple touchpoints Time management and prioritising revenue-producing activities Allowing your team to make decisions and learn from mistakes Simon’s practical advice for business owners is simple: be relentless, manage your time carefully and keep doing the important work consistently even when the results are not immediate. Whether you’re considering using a buyer’s agent, looking to purchase property in Sydney, or building a service-based business with your partner, this episode offers practical lessons about property, leadership, sales and sustainable business growth. Connect with Simon and Lock & Key Property Buyers Website: https://lockandkeyproperty.com.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lockandkeyproperty Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lockandkeyproperty LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lock-key-property-buyers Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail Most business owners know what they should be doing but knowing and doing are two very different things. In this episode of Small Business Sorted, Kay and Crystal explore why business owners procrastinate, avoid important decisions and stay busy without necessarily moving their business forward. They discuss: • Why being busy doesn’t always mean being productive or profitable • The hidden cost of putting off bookkeeping, marketing and client follow-up • How overwhelm and too many choices can stop you from taking action • The difference between an employee mindset and a business-owner mindset • Fear of failure, fear of success and imposter syndrome • Why business owners must take responsibility even when tasks are delegated • How poor leadership affects employees, customers and cash flow • The value of systems, procedures and a business “playbook” • Why habits are more reliable than motivation • How accountability, peer groups and business coaching can help • A simple “to-do” and “to-don’t” list to make priorities more manageable You’ll also hear the memorable story of the dog on the side of the road and why ignoring warning signs can allow a business to become progressively “sicker.” The challenge from this episode is simple: choose one important task you’ve been avoiding and decide whether to do it, delegate it or deliberately remove it from your list. If you’re a small business owner, tradie, consultant or service-business operator who struggles with procrastination, business overwhelm, time management or accountability, this episode will help you take back control. Subscribe to Small Business Sorted for practical, honest conversations about running and growing a small business. Small Business Sorted with Kay and Crystal is also broadcast on Radio Northern Beaches on 88.7 and 90.3 FM. #SmallBusiness #BusinessOwners #BusinessCoaching #Procrastination #Productivity #TimeManagement #BusinessMindset #Leadership #SmallBusinessTips #AustralianBusiness Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail In this powerful and deeply human episode, Kay and Crystal sit down with Northern Beaches business owner, caterer, event producer, author, and funeral director Karin Slade —a woman reshaping how Australians think about saying goodbye. After experiencing “eight deaths in five months” and attending “three funerals on three Fridays in a row” , Karin realised how impersonal, rushed, and emotionally disconnected traditional funerals can feel. That experience sparked her mission to help families create farewells that are meaningful, personal, and truly reflective of the person being celebrated. Karin shares how her event‑production background and decades of bringing people together now inform her work through Funerals by Design , where she asks deeper questions, challenges outdated norms, and empowers families to slow down, breathe, and honour their loved one in a way that feels right—not just “the way it’s always been done.” From holding ceremonies at meaningful locations to involving children in the process, to rethinking flowers, wakes, and the role of celebrants, Karin offers practical guidance that removes stress and brings dignity back to the farewell. You’ll hear stories of grief, anger, healing, and courage—including Karin’s reflections on how personalised rituals can support families through shock, sudden loss, long goodbyes, and everything in between. This conversation is honest, warm, and full of insights that will change how you think about funerals forever. Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail Are you overwhelmed by administration and wondering whether outsourcing or hiring a virtual assistant could help your small business? In this episode of Small Business Sorted, Kay and Crystal sit down with Angie Beale from Offshore Virtual Assistants to explore the realities of outsourcing for small-business owners. Angie explains what business owners should delegate first, why clear systems and processes are essential, and how to build a productive relationship with an offshore virtual assistant. She also shares the story behind her longstanding Filipino team, the valuable cultural strengths they bring to their roles and the common mistakes businesses make when outsourcing. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: • What tasks a small business should outsource first • How to decide what to delegate and what to retain • Why systems and documented processes matter • How a virtual assistant can reduce administrative pressure • The importance of communication, training and expectations • Common outsourcing mistakes and how to avoid them • How to integrate an offshore team member into your business • The strengths Filipino virtual assistants can bring to a team • How outsourcing can support sustainable business growth • Why outsourcing is more than simply finding cheaper labour This practical and honest conversation is ideal for small-business owners, tradies and service-based businesses who want to save time, reduce chaos and build a business that can operate without the owner managing every task. CONTACT ANGIE BEALE: Angie Beale is the founder of Offshore Virtual Assistants, helping Australian businesses save time, reduce administrative pressure and grow through carefully selected and supported offshore team members. With extensive experience building and managing a longstanding team in the Philippines, Angie understands that successful outsourcing involves much more than delegating tasks. She helps business owners establish clear systems, improve communication and integrate virtual assistants into their teams effectively. Angie is passionate about connecting businesses with reliable, capable professionals who can provide ongoing support and become valued members of the organisation. Website: https://www.offshorevirtualassistants.com.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelabeale/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OffshoreVirtualAssistants/ Listen to the episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2600368/episodes/19757828 Small Business Sorted with Kay and Crystal delivers practical, jargon-free conversations for Australian small-business owners. #SmallBusinessOutsourcing #VirtualAssistant #OffshoreVirtualAssistant #Outsourcing #DelegateToGrow #BusinessSystems #BusinessAutomation #SmallBusinessAustralia #FilipinoVirtualAssistant #BusinessGrowth #TimeManagement #BusinessOwner #SmallBusinessTips #OffshoreTeam #SmallBusinessSorted Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail Thinking about selling your business, retiring or stepping away one day? In this episode of Small Business Sorted, Kay and Crystal unpack the real-world process of exiting a small business and explain why successful business exit planning should begin well before you are ready to sell. They share honest stories about rushed business exits, unexpected valuations, staff reactions and the emotional impact of leaving a business that has been a major part of your life. YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO: Start planning your business exit early and establish a realistic timeline. Work out your financial freedom number. Understand your personal financial position before selling. Prepare accurate books and financial records for a business sale. Improve profitability and cash-flow sustainability. Reduce the business’s dependence on you as the owner. Build reliable systems that allow the business to operate without you. Diversify your customer base and reduce concentration risk. Identify the risks that could reduce your business valuation. Protect your staff, customers, reputation and legacy during the transition. THIS EPISODE ALSO COVERS: How small businesses are valued. Goodwill and what creates genuine business value. Preparing a business for sale. Staff communication and transition planning. Customer and client retention strategies. Succession planning for small-business owners. Protecting the legacy you have worked hard to build. Creating a more valuable, saleable and owner-independent business. Whether you are planning to sell your business soon, preparing for retirement, considering succession or simply want to build a stronger business, this episode will help you understand what buyers look for and what you can do now to improve your options. Small Business Sorted with Kay and Crystal delivers practical, jargon-free advice for Australian small-business owners, tradies and service-based businesses. #BusinessExit #ExitPlanning #SellingABusiness #BusinessValuation #SuccessionPlanning #SmallBusinessAustralia #BusinessForSale #RetirementPlanning #BusinessGrowth #SmallBusinessTips #BusinessSystems #CashFlow #Goodwill #BusinessOwner #SmallBusinessSorted Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail What really happens behind the scenes in Australia’s most recognised handyman franchise Hire A Hubby? In this episode of Small Business Sorted , Kay and Crystal sit down with Jim Kelly (Hire A Hubby Mona Vale & Balgowlah) and Giles Smith (Hire A Hubby Forestville) two of the Northern Beaches’ highest‑rated handyman franchisees. Jim brings 30+ years of franchising and customer service experience, multiple Franchisee of the Year awards. Giles shares his journey from Cornwall farm kid → CIO → children’s book author → one of Sydney’s most Google‑rated handymen. Together, they unpack: How they got into Hire A Hubby including surfing conversations, failed ventures, and “do what you love” moments Why franchising reduces risk and how buying an existing customer base changes everything The three biggest complaints in the handyman industry (and how good operators avoid them) How to manage staff, avoid burnout, and stop the boom‑and‑bust cycle of tradie work The real misconceptions about handymen and why the job requires massive skill breadth Their biggest mistakes, warranty nightmares, and how they fixed them fast The habits and systems that keep their businesses profitable and customers loyal You’ll also hear brilliant stories from spray‑painting a neighbour’s house by accident to the infamous “wrong letterbox saga” plus practical advice for any small‑business owner about hiring, quoting, communication, and protecting your sanity. Perfect for: Small business owners, tradies, franchise buyers, Northern Beaches locals, and anyone curious about what it really takes to run a successful service‑based Handyman Property Maintenience business. Contact - Hire A Hubby - https://hireahubby.com.au/ Giles Smith - Hire A Hubby Forestville Jim Kelly - Hire A Hubby Mona Vale and Balgowlah #SmallBusinessSorted #HireAHubby #BNIAustralia #BNISydney #HandymanBusiness #TradieBusiness #FranchiseBusiness #SmallBusinessAustralia #NorthernBeachesBusiness #PropertyMaintenance #BusinessGrowth #CustomerService #BusinessSystems #TradieLife #PodcastAustralia Hire A Hubby, Giles Smith, Jim Kelly, Hire A Hubby Forestville, Hire A Hubby Mona Vale, Hire A Hubby Balgowlah, handyman franchise Australia, Australian franchise podcast, tradie business advice, property maintenance business, Small Business Sorted podcast. Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail Thinking about exiting your business - now or someday? In this episode of Small Business Sorted , Kay and Crystal dive deep into the 10 real reasons small business owners choose (or are forced) to exit their business , and what you can do to prepare long before the pressure hits. From retirement , burnout , losing passion , industry changes , health issues , partnership breakdowns , and financial decline , we unpack the honest conversations business owners rarely have but absolutely should. You’ll hear real stories from our own experiences, including: Kay selling her First Class Accounts franchise and rediscovering her passion for bookkeeping after finding The Strategic Bookkeeper (“ she just reignited something in me ” ) Crystal’s wake‑up call during emergency surgery (“ no one knows everything about what I’ve got ” ) Clients who faced sudden illness, unexpected offers, industry disruption, and the harsh reality of declining profitability Why burnout often shows up as snapping at family, heart palpitations, and feeling constantly “on” (“ I don’t relax. I can’t relax. ” ) We also explore: -How AI and automation are reshaping industries -Why selling when your business is performing well matters -The danger of handshake partnerships -What happens when your wealth is tied up in the business -Why every owner needs an exit plan even if you’re not ready to leave If you’ve ever wondered “Would I buy my business today?” , this episode will give you clarity, direction, and a few laughs along the way. #SmallBusinessSorted #BusinessExitStrategy #ExitPlanning #BusinessSuccession #SuccessionPlanning #SellingABusiness #BusinessValuation #SmallBusinessAustralia #AustralianBusiness #BusinessOwners #BusinessGrowth #BusinessPlanning #BusinessBurnout #BusinessPartnerships #FutureProofYourBusiness #NorthernBeachesBusiness #SydneySmallBusiness #WomenInBusinessAustralia #BusinessPodcast #AustralianPodcast #SmallBusinessSorted #ExitPlanning #BusinessExitStrategy #SuccessionPlanning #SellingABusiness #BusinessValuation #SmallBusinessAustralia #BusinessOwners #BusinessBurnout #BusinessPodcast Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail Are you undercharging, doing everything yourself or running your business without fully understanding your numbers? In this episode of Small Business Sorted, business growth coach Crystal Petzer and bookkeeper Kay Godfrey reveal 10 common small business mistakes and practical ways to avoid them. Drawing on their experience running businesses and helping Australian business owners, Kay and Crystal explore the problems that can damage your cash flow, profitability, team, customer experience and long-term business growth. The 10 small business mistakes covered are: Not knowing your numbers Pricing too low and undercharging Trying to do everything yourself Operating without proper systems and processes Hiring employees too quickly—or waiting too long Avoiding difficult conversations Not marketing consistently Ignoring the customer experience Failing to plan ahead Not looking after yourself as the business owner In this episode, you’ll learn: Why understanding profit, cash flow and job profitability matters How undercharging affects every part of your business Why delegation is essential for sustainable business growth How systems and procedures reduce business chaos When to hire your next employee How to approach difficult conversations with staff and customers Why marketing must continue when you’re busy How customer experience affects referrals and repeat business How a simple 90-day business plan can create direction Why business-owner burnout affects decision-making and performance Whether you’re a tradie, service provider, consultant, entrepreneur or established business owner, this episode will help you recognise the habits and decisions that may be holding your business back. If you recognise several of these mistakes, don’t panic. Choose one area, take one practical step and start improving it today. #SmallBusinessSorted #SmallBusinessMistakes #SmallBusinessAustralia #BusinessGrowth #BusinessCoach #KnowYourNumbers #BusinessPricing #CashFlow #Profitability #BusinessSystems #Delegation #CustomerExperience #BusinessPlanning #BusinessOwnerBurnout #TradieBusiness #ServiceBusiness #AustralianBusinessPodcast #NorthernBeachesBusiness Connect with Small Business Sorted: Crystal Petzer – Business Growth Coach https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey – Up Up and Away Bookkeeping https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches – 88.7 or 90.3 FM https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email: radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ Follow Small Business Sorted for practical Australian small business advice covering business growth, finance, pricing, leadership, staffing, marketing and business systems. #SmallBusinessMistakes #SmallBusinessAustralia #BusinessGrowth #BusinessAdvice #CashFlow #BusinessPricing #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessSorted Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail What does it take to reinvent your career, recover when a business model changes and keep moving forward? In this episode of Small Business Sorted, Kay Godfrey and Crystal Petzer sit down with keynote speaker, author and business leader Wendy Lloyd Curley to hear the story behind her remarkable career. While Wendy is the author of the Amazon bestseller Stop Wasting Your Time Networking, this interview is not focused on her book. It’s an honest conversation about Wendy’s personal and professional journey—the successes, setbacks, business pivots and lessons that shaped the leader she is today. Wendy takes us from her early days in hospitality and corporate strategic marketing to entrepreneurship, direct sales, professional speaking and business networking. She explains how she built Australia’s largest PartyLite sales group, growing its annual revenue from approximately $250,000 to $1.5 million, and how she reinvented her career when the business model changed. Today, Wendy is the Executive Director of BNI Sydney Northeast and creator of the Strategic Networking Masterclass. She has delivered keynotes and workshops across Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom and the Philippines. In this episode, we explore: Wendy’s journey from hospitality to corporate leadership Moving from corporate employment into business ownership Building and leading a successful national sales team Learning from business failure and knowing when to change direction Rebuilding when a successful business model suddenly changes The importance of business relationships and professional networks Delegation, virtual teams and why you shouldn’t run a business alone What to discuss before entering a business partnership Managing financial risk and maintaining a cash buffer Resilience, reinvention and developing a learning mindset Why business owners need community, accountability and choice Wendy’s move into BNI leadership and professional speaking Whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, professional, tradie or service provider, Wendy’s story offers practical lessons about leadership, resilience, relationships and adapting when life or business takes an unexpected turn. Links to Wendy Lloyd Curley Franchise Owner of BNI Sydney North East – www.bnisne.com.au Certified Professional Speaker – www.wendylloydcurley.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendylloydcurley/ #SmallBusinessSorted #WendyLloydCurley #CareerReinvention #BusinessResilience #BusinessLeadership #WomenInBusiness #WomenInLeadership #BusinessNetworking #BNIAustralia #BNISydneyNortheast #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #BusinessRelationships #ProfessionalSpeaking #KeynoteSpeaker #BusinessCommunity #SmallBusinessAustralia #AustralianBusinessPodcast #LeadershipPodcast #NorthernBeachesBusiness Connect with Small Business Sorted: Crystal Petzer – Business Growth Coach https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey – Up Up and Away Bookkeeping https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches – 88.7 or 90.3 FM https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email: radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ Subscribe for practical Australian small business advice covering business growth, finance, leadership, staffing, systems, marketing and entrepreneurship. #BusinessNetworking #StrategicNetworking #BusinessGrowth #SmallBusinessAustralia #Entrepreneurship #BusinessReferrals #Leadership #SmallBusinessSorted Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail Are you running your business with an employee mindset? In this episode of Small Business Sorted, Kay and Crystal explain how to develop a business owner mindset, step away from doing everything yourself and build a business that can grow without relying on you for every decision. Many new business owners unintentionally recreate their old job. They stay focused on completing tasks, solving daily problems and reacting to whatever happens next rather than concentrating on business strategy, leadership, profitability and long-term growth. In this episode, we explore: The difference between an employee mindset and a business owner mindset Why business owners get trapped working in the business How to make time to work on your business The dangers of doing everything yourself Why undercharging limits business growth and profitability How to delegate effectively and build a reliable team The importance of systems, processes and technology How to stop becoming the bottleneck in your business The different roles a business owner must manage, including marketing, sales, finance, risk, customer experience and workplace culture Kay and Crystal also share honest stories about pricing mistakes, hiring challenges, technology frustrations and learning to let go of tasks that someone else could handle. This episode offers practical small business advice for Australian business owners, tradies, service businesses and entrepreneurs who want to improve their leadership, delegate more effectively and build a profitable business that doesn’t depend entirely on them. If you’ve ever said, “It’s quicker if I just do it myself,” this episode is for you. #SmallBusinessSorted #BusinessOwnerMindset #EntrepreneurMindset #WorkingOnYourBusiness #BusinessGrowth #BusinessLeadership #StopDoingEverything #Delegation #BusinessSystems #BusinessProcesses #BusinessStrategy #BusinessProfitability #SmallBusinessAustralia #AustralianBusinessOwners #TradieBusiness #ServiceBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessCoach #BusinessPodcast #NorthernBeachesBusiness Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail How do you turn a personal problem into a successful global product business? In this episode of Small Business Sorted, Kay and Crystal interview Bambi Staveley, founder of Boost N Blend, about entrepreneurship, e-commerce, product development and spotting a profitable gap in the market. Bambi’s fascinating career has taken her from nursing and early internet innovation to global marketing and corporate leadership at Oracle. She shares how her interest in technology led her to help build one of Australia’s first government websites, establish a successful digital agency and eventually launch an international women’s hair-loss brand. The idea for Boost N Blend began with Bambi’s personal experience of thinning hair. After researching the global female hair-loss industry, she recognised that women needed a product created specifically for them. She went on to develop female hair fibres designed to conceal visible hair loss and help women feel more confident. In this episode, we discuss: How to turn a personal challenge into a business opportunity Identifying and researching a gap in the market Testing demand before investing in a new product The realities of product development and manufacturing Building an e-commerce business and selling internationally Using digital marketing to grow a product-based business Female hair loss and its effect on confidence The resilience required to build and grow a global brand Whether you’re developing a product, starting an online business or looking for your next business opportunity, Bambi’s story is filled with honest insights and practical lessons. Discover Boost N Blend: Website: https://www.boostnblend.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boostnblend Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boostnblend/ If Bambi’s story inspires you, share this episode with a business owner or aspiring entrepreneur—and follow Small Business Sorted for more practical Australian small business advice. #SmallBusinessSorted #BoostNBlend #BambiStaveley #WomenInBusiness #FemaleEntrepreneur #ProductDevelopment #EcommerceBusiness #OnlineBusiness #GlobalBusiness #BusinessInnovation #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #DigitalMarketing #ProductBasedBusiness #MarketResearch #WomenSupportingWomen #FemaleHairLoss #HairLossSolutions #SmallBusinessAustralia #AustralianBusinessPodcast Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail Are you fully booked today but worried about where your next job or customer will come from? In this episode of Small Business Sorted, Kay and Crystal explain how Australian small business owners can build a consistent sales pipeline, generate regular leads and avoid the “busy today, panicking tomorrow” cycle. We unpack why becoming too busy can be dangerous, how stopping your marketing kills momentum, and how poor quoting and a lack of follow-up can cost your business valuable work. Using practical examples from tradies, bookkeepers and service businesses, we explore common sales and marketing mistakes including ignoring enquiries, failing to follow up quotes, stopping networking and relying too heavily on word-of-mouth referrals. You’ll learn: How to create a consistent flow of leads Why marketing must continue when you’re busy How and when to follow up outstanding quotes How job management systems can improve your sales process Ways to strengthen customer retention and repeat business How to improve cash flow by building a reliable pipeline If you want more consistent work, stronger cash flow, better client retention and a small business that doesn’t fall apart whenever things get busy, this episode will help you take control. Small Business Sorted with Kay & Crystal delivers practical business growth, bookkeeping and financial advice for Australian small business owners, tradies, service businesses and entrepreneurs. #SmallBusinessSorted #SalesPipeline #LeadGeneration #BusinessGrowth #ConsistentLeads #SmallBusinessMarketing #MarketingStrategy #SalesStrategy #FollowUp #Quoting #CashFlow #CustomerRetention #RepeatBusiness #BusinessSystems #TradieBusiness #ServiceBusiness #SmallBusinessAustralia #AustralianBusinessOwners #BusinessPodcast #NorthernBeachesBusiness Connect with us: Crystal Petzer – Business Growth Coach https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey – Up Up and Away Bookkeeping https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches – 88.7 or 90.3 FM https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email: radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it—and follow Small Business Sorted so you don’t miss the next episode. Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail Running a small business with your partner can feel like a pressure cooker — invoices at dinner, staff issues on weekends, money stress, blurred roles, and zero work–life balance. In this episode, Kay & Crystal unpack the real challenges couples face when building a business together, and why so many tradie couples and family businesses struggle with communication, expectations, and boundaries. We dive into the most common pain points: admin overload, feeling unappreciated, arguing about money, unclear responsibilities, and the constant “Are we partners or business owners first?” tension. You’ll hear practical strategies to reduce conflict, improve communication, set clear roles, introduce weekly business meetings, and create boundaries that protect both your relationship and your business. If you’re a tradie couple, small business owner, or partner working behind the scenes in the admin/bookkeeping trenches, this episode gives you real‑world tools to work together without burning out — or burning down the relationship. Perfect for: tradie wives, small business owners, family businesses, couples in business, admin partners, bookkeepers, and anyone juggling love + business. #SmallBusinessSorted #TradieWives #CouplesInBusiness #TradieCouples #FamilyBusiness #WorkingWithYourPartner #SmallBusinessAustralia #TradieBusiness #BusinessRelationships #BusinessCommunication #WorkLifeBalance #BusinessBoundaries #BusinessPartners #SmallBusinessOwners #AdminSupport #Bookkeeping #BusinessBurnout #ServiceBusiness #AustralianBusinessPodcast #NorthernBeachesBusiness Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Small Business Sorted , Kay and Crystal dive into the Business Wheel of Success — a practical 10‑part self‑assessment that gives every business owner a clear “line in the sand” for where their business is really at. Using two example businesses — Kay as a bookkeeper and Crystal as a handyman/tradie — they walk through each section of the wheel, rating themselves honestly and unpacking what those scores reveal. From financial rewards , marketing , sales , culture , people development , leadership , operations , cashflow , enjoyment , and personal growth , nothing is off the table. Expect real talk, relatable stories, a few laughs, and some surprisingly honest scores. #SmallBusinessSorted #BusinessWheelOfSuccess #BusinessAssessment #BusinessHealthCheck #BusinessGrowth #BusinessPlanning #BusinessStrategy #KnowYourNumbers #CashFlow #FinancialManagement #MarketingStrategy #SalesGrowth #BusinessLeadership #TeamCulture #BusinessOperations #PersonalGrowth #TradieBusiness #BookkeepingBusiness #SmallBusinessAustralia #AustralianBusinessPodcast Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Small Business Sorted, Kay and Crystal dive into the Business Wheel of Success a practical 10‑part self‑assessment that gives every business owner a clear “line in the sand” for where their business is really at. Using two example businesses Kay as a bookkeeper and Crystal as a handyman/tradie they walk through each section of the wheel, rating themselves honestly and unpacking what those scores reveal. From financial rewards, marketing, sales, culture, people development, leadership, operations, cashflow, enjoyment, and personal growth, nothing is off the table. Expect real talk, relatable stories, a few laughs, and some surprisingly honest scores. #SmallBusinessSorted #BusinessWheelOfSuccess #BusinessAssessment #BusinessHealthCheck #BusinessGrowth #BusinessPlanning #BusinessStrategy #KnowYourNumbers #CashFlow #FinancialManagement #MarketingStrategy #SalesGrowth #BusinessLeadership #TeamCulture #BusinessOperations #PersonalGrowth #TradieBusiness #BookkeepingBusiness #SmallBusinessAustralia #AustralianBusinessPodcast Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.

Send us Fan Mail Most business owners only see their accountant at tax time — and it’s costing them clarity, confidence, and profit. In this episode, Kay and Crystal break down what your accountant should be helping you with, how often you should meet, and the key numbers every business owner must track to stay in control. We share real stories (including the million‑dollar business that didn’t know if it was making money), the difference between bookkeepers and accountants, how AI is changing reporting, and why clean, up‑to‑date books are non‑negotiable. You’ll learn: What accountants actually do — and what they don’t How often you should meet with yours The three numbers every business owner must know Why your business structure matters How to ask better questions so you get better advice If you’ve ever walked out of an accountant meeting thinking, “I still don’t get it,” this episode will change that. #SmallBusinessSorted #BusinessAccountant #KnowYourNumbers #BusinessFinances #FinancialClarity #BusinessProfitability #CashFlowManagement #BusinessStructure #FinancialReporting #Bookkeeping #AccountantVsBookkeeper #SmallBusinessAdvice #BusinessGrowth #BusinessPlanning #BusinessAI #SmallBusinessAustralia #AustralianBusinessOwners #TradieBusiness #ServiceBusiness #AustralianBusinessPodcast Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.