In this holiday episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor tackles a familiar but rarely confronted reality for entrepreneurs: most don’t truly rest over the Christmas break, they simply pause while staying mentally tethered to work.
Debra unpacks the subtle behaviours that sabotage real downtime, from “just checking emails” to quietly solving work problems in your head and explains why these habits prevent genuine recovery. She shares why true rest isn’t indulgent or irresponsible, but essential for clear thinking, strong leadership, and sustainable businesses.
Through her signature lens of fierce clarity and loving truth, Debra outlines five practical steps for a healthy Christmas break, choosing presence, resting without guilt, reflecting lightly, reconnecting with who you are beyond the business, and letting go of martyr behaviour. She also explores why family businesses often struggle at Christmas, and how blurred boundaries can quietly undermine both rest and relationships.
The episode closes with Debra sharing her own plans for switching off properly, offering a grounded reminder that a business strong enough to survive your absence is a sign of leadership done well.
So if you’re heading into the festive season exhausted, distracted, or secretly planning to “just check in,” this episode is your permission slip, and your plan, to truly rest.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
Episode 252 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:38 – Christmas Break Realities for Entrepreneurs
02:32 – The Truth About Entrepreneurs’ Christmas Breaks
04:23 – The Importance of Rest for Entrepreneurs
05:20 – Family Businesses and Christmas
08:50 – Preparing Your Business for a Proper Break
11:26 – Debra’s Personal Christmas Plans
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Kerry Boulton, an experienced exit planner, business coach, and investor, for a candid conversation about what really happens when business owners don’t plan their exit.
Drawing on decades of lived experience, Kerry shares her journey from running a major division in the 1980s to owning, exiting, and reinvesting in multiple businesses. She unpacks a confronting statistic from the Exit Planning Institute: 73% of business owners regret selling their business, largely because they failed to plan both the exit itself and what comes next.
Together, Debra and Kerry explore what it truly means to be exit-ready, from strong financials, systems, and succession planning, to reducing owner dependency and thinking deeply about purpose beyond the business. The conversation also dives into family business succession, the emotional realities of exiting, and why starting at least three years early can make all the difference.
This episode is a powerful reminder that exiting a business isn’t a single transaction, it’s a transition. And done well, it can set you up not just for financial security, but for a meaningful and intentional next chapter of life.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
___________________________________________
GUESTS DETAILS:
► Kerry Boulton – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/businessvaluebuildermelbourne/
► Get Her Complimentary Valuation Assessment: https://theexitstrategygroup.com.au/value-builder-questionnaire/
► Get Her Book, The Uncensored Truth about Exit Strategies: https://freeexitstrategybook.com.au/
Episode 251 Chapters:
0:00 – Kerry’s Introduction and Background in Exit Planning
2:29 – The Journey to Business Ownership and Initial Challenges
7:33 – Implementing TQM and Attracting International Buyers
11:25 – The Importance of Exit Planning for Baby Boomers
14:35 – The Impact of Not Having an Exit Strategy
19:53 – Financial Considerations and the Role of Professionals
25:38 – Family Business Succession Planning
32:58 – The Importance of Systems and Financial Health
36:48 – The Role of Earn-Outs and Private Equity
40:22 – Top Tips for Exit Planning
In this week’s Better Business, Better Life podcast, Debra Chantry-Taylor delves into the costly consequences of half-committing to EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), revealing how partial implementation leads to confusion, trust issues, and stunted growth. Through real-life examples and stories, Debra stresses the importance of committing fully to EOS, including consistently running Level 10 meetings, maintaining accurate scorecards, and setting realistic rocks (priorities).
Debra also highlights the essential leadership practices required for success with EOS, such as clear direction, accountability, and the LMA (Lead, Manage, Accountability) tools, which provide structure and ensure the right people are in the right seats. The episode provides actionable insights for business leaders to get back on track and achieve transformation by embracing EOS tools and practices with dedication and consistency.
If you’re struggling with half-implementing EOS or facing bottlenecks in your business, this episode is a must-listen. It’s time to break free from the chaos and make the full commitment to EOS for your company’s success.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
___________________________________________
Free Resources:
Organisational Checkup: https://bbbl.pub/OrgCheckUp
Episode 250 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:41 – Commitment to EOS and Leadership Practices
01:43 – The Great Business Lie and Half-Using EOS
04:50 – Costs of Half-Using EOS
06:26 – The Role of LMA in EOS
08:40 – Full Commitment to EOS
12:19 – Steps to Get Back on Track with EOS
14:57 – Conclusion and Call to Action
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor sits down with Owen Garrity, founder and lead creative of FPW Media, to explore his remarkable journey from professional photographer to leading a 50-person full-service agency, all without external investment.
Owen shares the pivotal lessons he’s learned along the way, from paying four months’ rent upfront just to secure his first space, to scaling through grit, creativity, and an unshakable belief in saying “yes” to opportunity. He opens up about the challenges of delegation, the balance between control and trust, and the importance of celebrating wins, even when growth feels relentless.
Together, Debra and Owen dive into the core principles that have shaped FPW Media’s success: client-centricity, a commitment to team culture, and the courage to follow intuition. Owen also gives a glimpse into his next chapter, expanding into AI-driven services, new industries, and strategic acquisitions, while maintaining the same passion and purpose that started it all.
This episode is an inspiring listen for entrepreneurs who believe in building something extraordinary from the ground up, one bold decision at a time.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
___________________________________________
GUESTS DETAILS:
Episode 249 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:43 – Owen Garrity’s Journey and Philosophy
04:31 – Building FPW Media from Scratch
08:50 – Lessons Learned in Leadership
17:30 – Growth and Client-Centric Approach
31:02 – Building Trust and Team Dynamics
35:27 – Future Plans and Personal Life
39:07 – Advice for Entrepreneurs
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor welcomes back Scott Rusnak, EOS Implementer, author and cyclist, for an inspiring conversation on designing a life that truly aligns with your values.
Drawing from his new book, Who is the Architect of Your Own Life, Scott shares practical exercises to help you achieve clarity, purpose and balance. He uses his signature analogy of juggling life’s “balls” such as business, family, health and faith to illustrate how to prioritise what matters most without dropping the ones that cannot bounce back.
Together, Debra and Scott explore how EOS tools and strong core values can guide your business decisions and also support your personal growth. They discuss the importance of planning intentional time with loved ones, maintaining daily health habits and surrounding yourself with supportive people.
With plenty of warmth and wisdom, this episode is a reminder that true success is not just about business wins. It is about living deliberately, loving fully and designing your life on purpose.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA: ___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ ►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/ ___________________________________________
GUESTS DETAILS:
►Scott Rusnak – LinkedIn
►Scott Rusnak – Website
Episode 248 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:38 – EOS Life and Importance of People
05:45 – Scott Rusnak’s Journey and Insights
07:05 – Balancing Business and Personal Life
11:04 – EOS Implementation and Core Values
18:02 – Core Values and Business Success
29:04 – Planning and Clarity Breaks
32:15 – Scott’s Book and Personal Stories
39:28 – Final Thoughts and Future Plans
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor dives deep into the Issues Solving Track (IDS), a core component of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). She explains how spending 80-85% of your problem-solving time on identifying the right issue can lead to better solutions, faster results, and a more efficient team.
She walks you through the three-step IDS process: Identify, Discuss, and Solve, emphasising the power of asking the right clarifying questions, like the Five Whys, to uncover root causes. She also introduces the concept of the Issue Champion, the person who drives the issue-solving process forward, ensuring the issue gets the attention it needs.
Debra also shares real-world examples and practical tips for using IDS effectively, so you can tackle your business problems like a pro. If you're struggling with recurring issues in your business, this episode will help you break them down and come up with actionable solutions.
Tune in to learn how mastering IDS can lead to more sustainable business growth and smoother team dynamics!
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
___________________________________________
FREE RESOURCES:
IDS - Getting Clear on the Issue: https://bbbl.pub/IDS
Episode 247 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:36 – Understanding the Issues Solving Track (IDS)
03:49 – The Importance of Proper Identification
05:30 – The Role of the Issue Champion
06:15 – Clarifying Questions in the Identify Step
09:16 – The Discuss and Solve Steps
12:16 – The Five Whys Technique
13:48 – Real-World Examples of IDS in Action
15:14 – Recap and Challenge
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Beth Fahey, a former filmmaker turned bakery owner who grew her business from two to 32 employees before discovering the power of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS).
Beth shares how tools like the Accountability Chart and Level 10 Meetings transformed her team’s communication, culture, and focus, and how she now helps other business leaders achieve the same results as a professional EOS Implementer. Together, she and Debra explore what it really takes to create strong leadership, foster accountability, and maintain alignment as a company scales.
They also chat about Beth’s upcoming book on EOS rollout, her inspiring podcast Bad Boss Confessional, and the importance of self-care and vulnerability in leadership.
Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting your EOS journey, this episode is packed with relatable insights and practical tools to help you lead with clarity, courage, and compassion.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
____________________________________________
GUEST DETAILS:
► Beth Fahey – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethfahey/
► Beth Fahey – Website: https://www.bethfahey.com/
► Beth Fahey – EOS Worldwide: https://implementer.eosworldwide.com/beth-fahey/
► Bad Boss Confessional Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/07WsPdrtQt3h69PPdL2GXB?si=9980d86bf5c94556
Episode 246 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
01:08 – Leadership and Accountability in Business
30:05 – Beth’s Career Journey and EOS Implementation
30:16 – The Impact of the Traction Book and EOS Implementation
30:36 – Level 10 Meetings and Team Engagement
32:08 – Rolling Out EOS and Overcoming Resistance
32:21 – The Role of Leadership Teams and Operational Teams
37:40 – Financial Transparency and Team Engagement
43:36 – The Importance of Self-Care for Leaders
44:44 – Beth’s Podcast: Bad Boss Confessional
49:39 – Final Thoughts and Contact Information
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor tackles one of the hardest parts of leadership, dealing with underperforming employees. With honesty and compassion, she explains why avoiding tough conversations only damages trust, culture, and team morale.
Debra introduces practical EOS tools like the People Analyser and the SBI (Situation, Behaviour, Impact) model to help leaders give clear, kind, and effective feedback. She explores how to balance courage with compassion, offering coaching and support where improvement is possible, and guiding respectful exits when it’s not.
Packed with real-world stories, including how one business boosted performance by 20% after making a difficult staffing change, this episode is a must-listen for any leader who wants to strengthen trust, improve culture, and lead with confidence.
Because great leadership isn’t about avoiding discomfort, it’s about doing what’s right for the business and the people in it.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
____________________________________________
Episode 245 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:38 – Handling Persistent Performance Issues in Leadership
02:12 – Reasons for Avoiding Tough Decisions
04:10 – Using the People Analyser Tool
07:51 – Radical Candour and Specific Feedback
09:58 – Changing the Person or the Role
11:46 – Reflecting and Taking Action
14:05 – Final Thoughts and Resources
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor chats with Sarah Thomas, an email marketing automation expert who reveals how smart, personalised emails can outperform social media and transform customer relationships.
Sarah shares her journey from managing data systems at Debenhams to helping businesses craft meaningful automations, from welcome sequences to post-purchase follow-ups and re-engagement campaigns. She explains why success isn’t about list size, but about clean data, segmentation, and connection.
Listeners will learn how to audit their customer journeys, implement high-performing automations, and focus on metrics that truly drive conversions. With open rates up to 40%, compared to social media’s 3%, Sarah proves that email remains the most powerful tool for turning subscribers into loyal customers.
If you’re ready to ditch generic blasts and start building relationships that convert, this episode is your step-by-step guide.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
____________________________________________
GUEST DETAILS:
► Sarah Thomas – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-thomas-9417493a/
► Tierra Marketing Co. Website: https://www.tierramarketingco.com/
► Free Resources:
Email Growth Blueprint: https://www.tierramarketingco.com/email-growth-blueprint
Episode 244 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction and Background
01:36 – Early Career and Email Marketing
04:18 – Challenges and Importance of Data
05:30 – Customer Life Cycle and Email Automation
11:44 – Mapping the Customer Journey
13:24 – A/B Testing and Metrics
32:32 – Case Studies and Real-World Examples
32:57 – Practical Tips and Tools
33:10 – Final Thoughts and Resources
In this heartfelt episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor welcomes back relationship coach and former therapist Kathy Rushing to explore how entrepreneurs can strengthen their marriages while building successful businesses.
Drawing on decades of experience, and her own 45-year marriage to a serial entrepreneur, Kathy shares her powerful CRAVE framework: Communication, Rituals and Rhythms, Appreciation and Affirmation, Vision, and Energy. Together, she and Debra unpack how small, intentional habits can keep relationships strong through the chaos of entrepreneurship.
From recognising early warning signs of drifting apart to using tools like the DISC profile and the Weekly Marriage Compass, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help couples stay connected, communicate better, and build shared visions for life and business.
Warm, wise, and deeply relatable, it’s a reminder that success at work means little without harmony at home, and that every great business starts with a strong foundation of love and understanding.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
____________________________________________
GUEST DETAILS:
► Kathy Rushing – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-rushing/
► Lodestar Relationship Coaching Website: https://kathyrushing.com/
Episode 243 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction and Recap of Previous Discussion
01:54 – Kathy Rushing’s Background and the CRAVE Framework
04:50 – The Importance of Communication and Rituals
05:13 – Balancing Business and Marriage
18:44 – Tools and Assessments for Improving Marriage
31:06 – Identifying Early Warning Signs of Drift
32:40 – Strategies for Managing Stress in Marriage
32:57 – Top Tips for Improving Marriage
49:48 – Conclusion and Resources
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor sits down with Ian Murray, visionary of Murray Insurance and EOS Implementer, to explore how implementing EOS turned his chaotic insurance agency into a thriving, values-driven business.
Ian opens up about his early struggles, working nonstop, feeling frustrated with his team, and trying to self-implement EOS before realising the true power of doing it with his people, not to them. With honesty and humour, he shares how EOS tools like the Level 10 Meeting, Vision/Traction Organizer (VTO), and Leadership + Management Accountability (LMA) framework reshaped his leadership and his company’s culture.
From the moment a simple book recommendation, Traction, changed his path, to the pivotal “focus day” that led to one leader stepping down (and the business stepping up), Ian’s story is a powerful reminder that clarity and consistency beat chaos every time.
Whether you’re self-implementing EOS or considering bringing in an implementer, this episode is packed with real-world lessons about alignment, accountability, and leading with vision.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
____________________________________________
GUEST DETAILS:
► Ian Murray – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianasmurray
► Ian Murray – EOS Worldwide: https://www.eosworldwide.com/ian-murray
► Murray Insurance Website: https://www.murrayinsurance.ca/
Episode 242 Chapters:
00:00 – Ian Murray’s Journey to EOS Implementation
07:16 – Challenges and Learnings in Implementing EOS
10:29 – The Impact of Vision and Core Focus
16:17 – The Role of the VTO and Accountability Chart
20:45 – The Power of Quarterly Conversations and LMA
45:17 – Ian’s Ideal Client and Final Tips
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor dives into one of the most common traps for business leaders, taking on too many priorities and finishing none.
Drawing on her experience as a certified EOS Implementer, Debra breaks down the power of setting clear, focused quarterly priorities or “rocks.” She explains why most leaders only have about 65 hours per quarter to work on the business, and how spreading that time too thin leads to burnout and stalled progress.
Through practical examples and relatable stories, Debra shows how to define true rocks (not boulders), write SMART goals, and block time to make meaningful progress. She also shares how integrating rocks into weekly meetings and scorecards keeps teams aligned and accountable.
Whether you’re a visionary constantly chasing new ideas or a leader buried in the day-to-day, this episode will help you refocus on what truly moves the business forward, fewer priorities, done better.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
____________________________________________
FREE RESOURCES:
► ROCKS – Why You Don’t Get Them Done
► How to Think & Build SMART Rocks
Episode 241 Chapters:
00:00 – Episode Introduction and Purpose
01:22 – Understanding the Concept of Rocks
01:38 – Time Management and Prioritisation
05:08 – Defining and Managing Rocks
13:58 – Writing SMART Rocks
14:10 – Practical Tips for Managing Rocks
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by therapist and entrepreneurial spouse Kathy Rushing, as they explore how couples can thrive in both business and love.
Kathy opens up about her own journey with her husband, Mark, a serial entrepreneur, and the strain that long hours, financial pressure, and constant business demands can place on a relationship. Together, Debra and Kathy dive into practical ways to protect your marriage from becoming a casualty of entrepreneurship.
Through Kathy’s powerful CRAVE framework, Communication, Rhythms, Appreciation, Vision, and Energy - listeners discover how small, consistent habits can create deeper connection and resilience. From setting non-negotiable date nights to maintaining shared vision and gratitude, this episode offers a roadmap for couples who want both a thriving business and a fulfilling relationship.
Warm, honest, and deeply relatable, this conversation reminds us that behind every great entrepreneur is often a great partner - and nurturing that partnership is the key to a better life.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
____________________________________________
GUESTS DETAILS:
► Lodestar Relationship Coaching - Website
Episode 240 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction and Guest Overview
02:47 – Kathy Rushing’s Background
11:27 – Challenges in Entrepreneurial Marriages
12:22 – The Importance of Enthusiastic Agreement
19:27 – Tools and Frameworks for Marriage Success
20:31 – Vision and Energy in Marriage
30:27 – Practical Tips for Entrepreneurial Couples
30:44 – Conclusion and Resources
This week on Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor sits down with Laurie Seymour, an EOS implementer, and Curtis Williams, her very first client and the owner of a thriving personal training studio.
Curtis shares how the pandemic forced him to adapt, offering free Zoom classes that eventually evolved into a structured, scalable business model. Laurie, who found EOS after struggling with self-implementation, helped Curtis bring order and accountability into the business through tools like the Level 10 Meeting and the scorecard. Together, they reveal how EOS has transformed Curtis’s gym into a model built for growth.
The conversation also explores the personal side of their relationship, from Laurie regaining her health and strength through Curtis’s training, to Curtis finding clarity and confidence as a leader. With insights on defining core values, staying the course with EOS, and planning for expansion, this episode is a masterclass in how structure and discipline create freedom.
Whether you’re running a small business or looking to scale, Laurie and Curtis’s journey proves that with focus and the right tools, long-term success is well within reach.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
►Claim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/
____________________________________________
GUESTS DETAILS:
► Laurie Seymour - LinkedIn
► Laurie Seymour - EOS Worldwide
► Curtis Williams - LinkedIn
Episode 239 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:53 – Background of the Guests
01:35 – Laurie’s Journey to Becoming an EOS Implementer
05:48 – Curtis’s Introduction to EOS
09:00 – Implementing EOS in a Personal Training Business
12:40 – Challenges and Solutions in Implementing EOS
13:37 – Impact of EOS on Business Operations
27:16 – Personal and Professional Growth
27:47 – Tips for Business Owners
41:12 – Final Thoughts and Future Plans
In another episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor welcomes EOS implementer and marketing agency owner Will Watrous, to share his remarkable business journey.
Will opens up about the stressful early days of running his agency, when explosive growth left him burnt out and barely scraping a 6% net profit. Everything changed when he discovered EOS. By embracing tools like the accountability chart and three-year picture, and partnering with an integrator, he transformed his company into a thriving, stable business delivering 34% profit.
In this inspiring conversation, Will explains why profit and cash flow are more than accounting measures, they’re leadership tools. He also shares his top tips: taking regular clarity breaks, applying the systems mindset from Work the System, and remembering that everything you need is already within reach.
Whether you’re a visionary overwhelmed by growth or a leader striving for balance, this episode offers practical insights to help you build a healthier, more profitable business and life.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUESTS DETAILS:
► Will Watrous - EOS Implementer
Episode 238 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
01:00 – EOS Journey and Initial Challenges
04:00 – Discovering EOS and Initial Implementation
05:26 – Personal Insights and EOS Tools
06:58 – Value of an EOS Implementer
15:01 – Favourite EOS Tools and Client Success Stories
19:52 – Economic Impact and Financial Education
24:58 – Impact on Team and Business Stability
28:40 – Top Tips for Better Business and Life
34:00 – Final Thoughts and Contact Information
This week on Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by venture capitalist and bestselling author Ben Wiener to unpack the art and challenges of startup pitches. With only two out of ten startups likely to succeed, Ben shares how founders can stand out using his H.E.A.R.T. framework: Hypothesis, Enormous Stakes, Alternatives, Radically Different, and Team.
From his journey in law and venture capital to writing Fever Pitch, Ben offers practical insights into what investors really want to hear and why storytelling matters as much as strategy. He explains how anticipating questions, neutralising competition early, and presenting a differentiated solution can make all the difference.
Beyond pitching, Ben emphasises the value of active reading, empathy, and paying it forward - reminding us that business success is often rooted in doing the right thing for others.
Whether you’re a startup founder, a leader refining your communication, or simply curious about what makes ideas resonate, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable tools.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUESTS DETAILS:
Episode 237 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
00:50 – Venture Capital and Entrepreneurial Journey
03:14 – Challenges and Successes in Venture Capital
05:58 – The Concept of “Fever Pitch”
10:48 – The H.E.A.R.T Framework
51:08 – Practical Applications and Benefits of the Framework
52:49 – Ben’s Investment Philosophy and Personal Insights
53:04 – Advice for Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders
This week on Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor tackles the trap of “smoking hopium”, when leaders rely on misleading metrics that give a false sense of security. From the all-green illusion of vanity measures to the always-red fantasy of unrealistic targets, Debra unpacks why both approaches damage trust, morale, and results.
Through real-world stories and practical tools, she explains how to replace hopium with clarity: setting outcome-driven measurables, building scorecards that truly predict success, and fostering a culture where honest reds and greens are celebrated.
Whether you’re a visionary frustrated with slow progress or a leader striving for accountability, this episode will equip you to measure what matters, set achievable goals, and build momentum the right way, one honest metric at a time.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
Episode 236 Chapters:
00:00 – Smoking Hopium: Introduction to Data Scorecards
02:57 – The All-Green Illusion: Measuring the Wrong Things
03:38 – The Always-Red Fantasy: Setting Realistic Targets
05:45 – Replacing Hopium with Clarity: Practical Steps
08:36 – The Importance of Numbers: Clarity, Behaviour, and Action
08:50 – Scorecard Measurables: Sales, Marketing, HR, and Finance
27:44 – Building Trust in Numbers: Avoiding Manipulation
28:52 – Fixing a Broken Scorecard: A Seven-Step Reset
29:52 – The Five Leadership Abilities: Simplify, Delegate, Predict, Systemise, and Structure
32:10 – Systemise and Structure: Ensuring Consistency and Accountability
37:05 – Building a Culture of Truth: Celebrating Honest Results
38:22 – Call to Action: Auditing and Improving Scorecards
In this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor dives into a challenge many visionaries face, having too many brilliant ideas and not enough follow-through. With energy and insight, she unpacks how constant pivots and unfinished projects can create chaos, overwhelm teams, and stall real progress.
Debra shares how the right mix of focus, data, and discipline can turn that visionary energy into lasting results. She explores the power of committing to just 3–7 priorities per quarter, using an integrator to filter and execute ideas, and building a scorecard that predicts the health of your business, not just reports on the past.
Through real-world success stories, including one business that boosted revenue by 20% while reducing workloads, Debra shows how less really can be more. She highlights practical tools like the Eisenhower matrix, clarity breaks, and leading indicators to help visionaries lead with confidence and reduce anxiety.
If you’ve ever felt like your ideas are running ahead of your team or your sanity, this episode will show you how to channel your creativity, trust your data, and build a business that grows without the chaos.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
Episode 235 Chapters:
00:29 – Introduction
00:00 – Visionaries and Their Impact on Businesses
02:04 – The Visionary Trap and Whiplash Culture
03:11 – The Role of Data in Providing Freedom and Clarity
06:49 – Strategies for Managing Visionary Energy
10:39 – Implementing Idea Filters and Delegation
14:25 – Embracing Data and Scorecards for Growth
In a lighthearted twist, this week’s episode of Better Business, Better Life sees host Debra Chantry-Taylor joined by two very special guests, her dogs, Hermes and Apollo. Together, they explore the simple but powerful wisdom we can learn from our furry friends.
From Hermes’ worries about separation to Apollo’s critique of human judgement, the pups deliver big messages in adorable ways. Through their lens, Debra reflects on timeless truths: the power of living in the moment, showing unconditional love, and letting go of stress.
The episode is filled with warmth, laughter, and gentle reminders to embrace gratitude, make time for play, and prioritise what really matters, like bottoms, bones, cuddles, and smoochies.
Whether you're a dog lover or just in need of a reset, this episode will lift your spirits and nudge you towards a more joyful way of being.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
CONNECT WITH APOLLO & HERMES:
► Apollo Chantry-Taylor - LinkedIn
► Hermes Chantry-Taylor - LinkedIn
Episode 234 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction & Lessons from Dogs
00:10 – Be in the Moment
01:00 – Judge Less and Love More
01:31 – Always Be Grateful
01:46 – Play and Relax
02:11 – What’s Really Important
In another episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Lacey Hayes, a seasoned EOS Implementer with a deep background in hospice care and organisational growth. Lacey shares how EOS helped scale a hospice business from $45 million to $78 million, and the lessons that apply to any growth-focused business.
They explore the tools that made the biggest impact, like the meeting pulse and Level 10 meetings, and how they shifted communication and accountability across a team of over 400 employees. Lacey stresses the importance of anchoring tough conversations in the company’s purpose and vision, using core values as a compass for leadership.
Together, they talk about how to spot the right people for the right seats, how to keep values alive throughout the organisation, and why external facilitators are crucial in complex settings like family businesses.
Whether you're new to EOS or deep in implementation, you’ll gain actionable ideas to keep your team focused and connected to a larger mission.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:
___________________________________________
►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner
►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au
►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/
____________________________________________
GUEST DETAIL:
► EOS Implementer - Lacey Hayes
Episode 233 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
03:04 – Transition to EOS Implementation
05:16 – Impact of EOS Tools and Meetings
08:51 – Structuring the Organisation and Accountability
11:21 – Processes and People in EOS
16:43 – Using EOS Tools for Evaluation and Improvement
24:01 – The Role of Purpose and Vision in EOS
30:43 – Anchoring Hard Conversations in Purpose
33:23 – Engaging the Entire Team in the Vision
36:24 – Final Tips and Recommendations