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Working On It
Brad Staines
11 episodes
5 hours ago
What if growing your business didn’t mean sacrificing your time, your health, or your freedom?  Working On It is the podcast for service-based founders who want to scale without burning out. Each episode brings you honest conversations with experts, operators, and mentors - the same kind of people who’ve helped shape successful businesses from the inside out. We dive into the systems, strategies, and habits that drive performance - and show you how to build a company that works without you always having to be there. It’s about clarity, leadership, and reclaiming control - of your time, your team, and your next chapter.  If you're focused on building a business that runs without you - and a life that works because of you - then you're in the right place
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Careers
Business,
Management,
Health & Fitness,
Mental Health
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All content for Working On It is the property of Brad Staines and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
What if growing your business didn’t mean sacrificing your time, your health, or your freedom?  Working On It is the podcast for service-based founders who want to scale without burning out. Each episode brings you honest conversations with experts, operators, and mentors - the same kind of people who’ve helped shape successful businesses from the inside out. We dive into the systems, strategies, and habits that drive performance - and show you how to build a company that works without you always having to be there. It’s about clarity, leadership, and reclaiming control - of your time, your team, and your next chapter.  If you're focused on building a business that runs without you - and a life that works because of you - then you're in the right place
Show more...
Careers
Business,
Management,
Health & Fitness,
Mental Health
Episodes (11/11)
Working On It
The 5 Minutes-a-Day Investing Technique with Ben Knight
In this episode, Brad interviews Ben Knight, the founder of Trade Tribe, dives deep into his personal journey and the philosophy behind his unique approach to investing. He shares the pivotal mindset shift that drove him away from the traditional 9-to-5 path, crediting his early exposure to his entrepreneurial grandfather. Ben outlines his educational journey, including his intentional pursuit of an international business degree to facilitate living abroad, and how these experiences broadened his perspective. He also breaks down his "5 minutes a day" investing strategy, which he developed to gain back time lost to intense, stressful day trading. KEY TAKEAWAYS Ben's primary drive from a young age was to avoid the traditional corporate grind, a desire that sparked his interest in business and investing. He used his university education strategically to live abroad (Florida, Spain, Canada), which he credits with opening his mind and challenging his pre-conceived notions. Ben created a streamlined, medium-term investing strategy focused on a few minutes of daily action to maintain a consistent income stream without sacrificing his time. He highlights that while compounding builds wealth, negative habits and stress (like trying to "day trade") compound into burnout and financial losses, illustrating his "either way you pay" mantra. Ben argues that conventional retirement saving (like a 3% yielding pension) is a "guaranteed loss" against real inflation, and learning to invest for higher double-digit returns is essential to growing wealth. BEST MOMENTS "It was always a way to not get into a 9-to-5 career. I was so desperate to not have that lifestyle that I saw so many people around me hating." "In life, there's always a cost to every action and inaction, and you always just choosing which price you'd prefer to pay. Either way, you pay." "Getting into like day trading and expecting to be good is like kicking a football for the first time and then expecting to play in the Premier League the next weekend." "If you're making 3% and you learn something to get to 15%, that's five times more you're making per year. It's an unbelievable amount." "The times of crashes and recessions, that's when the most millionaires are made. Knowing what to do when there is a crash is the most valuable thing that you could possibly have." HOST BIO Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow. He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting. Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader. Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week
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2 days ago
1 hour 1 minute

Working On It
The Traits That Drive Entrepreneurial Success with Chris Archer
Today, Brad sits down with Chris Archer as he shares his journey from building and selling CA Windows Systems to founding SME Success Group. Chris discusses the importance of aligning business goals with personal values, the emotional complexities of selling a business, and the dual feelings of disappointment and elation that come with such a significant transition. He emphasises the necessity of implementing effective systems within a business to ensure consistency and reliability, allowing entrepreneurs to reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters. KEY TAKEAWAYS Establishing effective systems within a business is crucial for ensuring consistency and reliability in operations. Systems allow businesses to produce repeatable and predictable outcomes, which is essential for building customer trust and satisfaction. Business owners should have a basic understanding of financial metrics such as profit and loss statements and balance sheets. This knowledge helps in making informed decisions about pricing, cash flow management, and overall business health. A successful business must focus on understanding and serving its customers. This involves developing strategies for customer attraction, conversion, and retention, ensuring that the business meets the needs and expectations of its target audience. Curiosity and a desire for progression are vital traits for entrepreneurs. Being open to new ideas and willing to challenge the status quo can lead to innovative solutions and improvements in business practices. Business owners should have a clear strategy for their future, whether it involves exiting the business or evolving it to better serve their lifestyle and goals. Planning for the future helps prevent stagnation and ensures that the business aligns with personal aspirations. BEST MOMENTS "A business should serve your life, not own it or disrupt it or ruin it." "If you can tell someone with confidence and conviction why what you're doing matters, it's much more believable." "Systems grow businesses, people run systems." "If you're doing something you know you can do well, all you've done is just created yourself a job." "What you're not changing, you're choosing." HOST BIO Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow. He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting. Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader. Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week
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1 week ago
53 minutes

Working On It
How Economic Downturns Sparked Entrepreneurial Spirit
Brad interviews Paula Mitchell on the challenges and triumphs of building company culture and leadership in the ever-evolving business landscape. Drawing from her experiences as a co-founder of multiple companies and her journey from a failed lawyer to a successful entrepreneur, Paula shares insights on the importance of trust, the impact of leadership on culture, and the necessity of continuous personal and professional growth. They touch on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on workplace happiness, the significance of mentorship, and the need for leaders to create an environment where employees feel empowered to contribute to the culture. KEY TAKEAWAYS Company culture is significantly influenced by leadership, but it can also be shaped by team members. A strong culture requires clear communication of values and behaviours, allowing everyone in the organisation to contribute positively. Trust is a complex concept that leaders must extend generously to their team members. While it takes time to build, it can be fragile, and leaders should communicate openly about any issues to maintain a healthy trust dynamic. Personal and professional growth should not be limited to climbing the corporate ladder. Mastery in one's current role or exploring new interests can lead to fulfilment and engagement. Leaders should encourage this mindset among their teams. Leaders often get caught in the daily grind, making it essential to carve out time for reflection and strategic thinking. This practice can help organisations adapt to changing cultures and improve overall employee satisfaction. Having mentors or advisors can help individuals navigate the overwhelming amount of information available today. Engaging with someone who has experience can provide valuable insights and guidance for personal and professional development. BEST MOMENTS "If your leadership aren't kind of pulling in the same direction, aren't aligned in what the message is, then sadly, the knock-on effect is that the culture is affected for everybody." "What the fuck? Like, how can that be that we spend so much of our time in work and it can be so poor for so many people?" "Trust takes years to build, but moments to break. I just think I don't like the moments to break bit." "I think it's important for the leaders to be the ones that extend [trust] first and to extend it generously." "We forget how freaking wonderful it is to get better at shit because we are not quite as deliberate about it as we were in our early years." HOST BIO Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow. He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting. Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader. Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week
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2 weeks ago
1 hour 1 minute

Working On It
Overcoming Mental and Physical Challenges with Byron Munford
In this episode, Brad interviews Byron Munford, a leading expert in personal health and fitness, who shares his journey from a young martial artist to a competitive weightlifter and health coach. They take a look at the importance of maintaining a healthy body and mind for service-based business founders looking to scale their operations without burning out. Byron discusses the significance of strength training, nutrition, and mindset, emphasising that health is wealth. KEY TAKEAWAYS A healthy body and mind are essential for service-based business owners to scale their businesses effectively and enjoy their lives. Prioritising personal health can lead to better decision-making and overall well-being. Both athletes and executives share a commonality in their mindset and resilience. Understanding and accepting pain as part of the process is crucial for growth and overcoming challenges. Incorporating strength training into any fitness routine is vital for maintaining muscle mass, bone health, and overall physical function. It should be tailored to individual capabilities and needs. Protein is a critical nutrient for muscle repair and growth. The amount needed varies based on body composition and activity level, with leaner individuals requiring more protein. Whole food sources like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy are recommended over processed protein products. Mastering the six pillars - exercise and movement, nutrition and hydration, sleep, mindset, stress management, and recovery - can significantly enhance overall health and quality of life. Each pillar plays a crucial role in achieving optimal well-being. BEST MOMENTS "If you believe you can do it, you will. If you don't, you won't." "Pain is perception. Pain to one person is life. If you can't accept that every bit of pain you feel is bad, you will never progress." "Strength training is essential. If you don't do it, you'll lose muscle mass, and your bones will degrade." "You can't do any of that if you haven't got a healthy body and mind." "The average person will only ever contract 30% to 40% of their max muscular units. Elite athletes can tap into a greater percentage." HOST BIO Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow. He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting. Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader. Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week
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3 weeks ago
58 minutes

Working On It
Doing Business in the UK, US, and the Middle East with Stephen Read
In this episode, Brad interviews Stephen Read in a thought-provoking conversation about leadership, business culture, and strategic planning with a focus on service-based businesses. Stephen shares his extensive experience in building and scaling companies across various regions, including the UK, US, Europe, and the Middle East. He emphasises the importance of nurturing talent within teams, the significance of a customer-centric culture, and the need for realistic business planning that goes beyond mere ambition. KEY TAKEAWAYS Effective leadership involves nurturing and developing team members, allowing them to excel and potentially surpass the leader. This approach fosters a supportive environment that contributes to overall business success. A strong company culture is essential for success and should be cultivated from the top down. Leaders must lead by example and ensure that the culture aligns with both employee needs and customer expectations. Business plans should be grounded in reality, outlining clear steps to achieve ambitious goals. It's crucial to break down objectives into manageable milestones and ensure that the team has the resources and support needed to execute the plan. Maintaining a strong focus on customer needs is vital for business growth. As companies scale, they must avoid losing sight of their customers, as this can lead to a decline in service quality and customer satisfaction. Businesses must be willing to adapt and evolve their strategies based on market conditions and internal capabilities. This includes being open to feedback, learning from failures, and adjusting plans to ensure sustainable growth. BEST MOMENTS "I've always felt that if people want something and they push hard enough, they don't wait to be told or asked, they grab it." "It's easier to be forgiven afterwards if you've done something or you've done too much than it is to ask permission in the first place." "The leader of the business is central to a good culture. The leader has to lead by example." "If you turn left or turn right, the price difference is huge, but the services for it isn't worth that." "The UK is the hardest place to do business, I think, by some way." HOST BIO Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow. He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting. Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader. Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week
Show more...
1 month ago
56 minutes

Working On It
Decoding LinkedIn Success and the AI-Driven Future with Mandy McEwen
This week, Brad is joined by Mandy McEwen, founder of Modgirl Marketing and Luminex, and a LinkedIn expert recognised as one of LinkedIn's top marketing voices. Mandy shares her journey from intending to be a school psychologist to accidentally launching a digital marketing agency. They deep dive into the current state of marketing, the dramatic shift caused by AI, and how you can leverage LinkedIn to build a successful personal brand and drive high-quality B2B leads.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Success in the challenging life of an entrepreneur is consistently linked to a relentless drive, passion, curiosity, and a "never say die" attitude, even when faced with zero initial returns. LinkedIn acts as an instant trust-builder and personal story platform, allowing people to get to know you quickly. A strong, consistent personal brand is becoming increasingly crucial for visibility, especially as AI-driven search evolves. The era of traditional SEO and Google search results is evolving, with AI tools like ChatGPT and Google's AI overview changing how people find information. To remain visible, content needs to be highly detailed, helpful, and optimized for both traditional search and AI, including creative methods like competitor list-style posts. The most important elements of a compelling LinkedIn profile are an easily visible professional headshot, a headline that clearly states your value, a compelling "About" section that tells your story, and utilizing the "Featured" media section for links, testimonials, and high-performing posts. To boost visibility and engagement, be active on the platform. LinkedIn's algorithm often rewards five to fifteen minutes of commenting on others' posts both before and after you publish your own content, as this signals that you are a genuine and active user. BEST MOMENTS “Honestly, I just kind of fell into it because I was obsessed with the internet back in the day. I literally went to Google and I typed in, 'How to make money online?'” "I don't want someone to tell me that I have to punch a clock from 8 to 5 every day. I want to be free and make my own money and not have to rely on someone else." "We almost have to have that delusional mindset, that, 'Yeah, these are my giant goals and you might think I'm crazy, but I'm going after it, you know, and I'm not going to stop.'" "People work with people they know, like, and trust. That's just human nature, right? I'm telling everyone this when I train sellers: you have to be known, liked, and trusted, period." HOST BIO Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow. He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting. Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader. Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.
Show more...
1 month ago
57 minutes

Working On It
Understanding Personality Types for Business Success with Neil Tuson
Today, Brad interviews Neil Tuson, founder of Perfect Teams, a personality profiling system. Neil shares his fascinating journey from a marine engineer in the Navy to a successful entrepreneur and public speaker, highlighting key turning points that shaped his career. He discusses the importance of personal development, the value of learning from failures, and the significance of understanding different personality types within teams. KEY TAKEAWAYS The transition from a career in engineering and the Navy to personal development highlights the importance of recognising one's strengths and seeking opportunities for growth. The realisation that public speaking could be mastered through training led to a significant career shift. The exploration of various personality profiling systems, such as those based on Carl Jung's theories, emphasises the value of understanding different personality types in team dynamics. This understanding can help identify strengths and gaps within a team. A successful team requires a clear vision (the "what"), mission (the "how"), and purpose (the "why"). These elements must be aligned to ensure that all team members are working towards the same goals and understand their roles in achieving them. Trusting and investing in team members is crucial for growth. Training and allowing individuals to learn from their mistakes fosters a culture of responsibility and empowerment, which is essential for a thriving business. Entrepreneurs must transition from working in their business to working on their business. This involves delegating operational tasks to focus on strategic growth, which can be achieved by building a capable team and creating systems that allow for scalability. BEST MOMENTS "Successful people do the things that failures don't like to do. It's where do you put your time and energy?" "It wasn't that I couldn't; I'd never been shown how to. Everybody I meet who says they can't do something, I say, look, it's not you can't do it. You've not yet been shown how to do it." "If you're running a business and you've got 24 to 30 people, you've got to find a way of bringing in somebody to run it for you." "It's almost like all your previous experiences have been a template laid out for you, but the moment you said, 'I need to learn this,' you started a new journey." "If you have those three, like a three-legged stool, you've got stability. If one of them's missing, it's going to fall over." HOST BIO Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow. He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting. Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader. Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week
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1 month ago
1 hour 1 minute

Working On It
How Nordic Chem is Revolutionising Floor Care with Matt Cooper
In this episode, Brad speaks with Matt Cooper about his journey from a garage door installation technician to a successful entrepreneur in the floor care industry with Nordic Chem. Matt shares his experiences with redundancy, a life-changing health scare, and how these events shaped his perspective on business and problem-solving. He discusses the innovative antimicrobial and ceramic coating products offered by Nordic Chem, emphasising their effectiveness in enhancing cleanliness and sustainability in various environments. The episode delves into the importance of trust, communication, and personal growth in leadership, as well as the challenges and strategies involved in scaling a business. KEY TAKEAWAYS Emphasising the importance of having a problem-solving attitude, the journey from garage door installation to floor care highlights how transferable skills can lead to innovative solutions in different industries. A significant health scare at a young age served as a catalyst for personal growth and a shift in perspective, leading to a more proactive approach to life and business. The importance of communication, trust, and relationship-building in business is underscored, with a focus on understanding client needs and delivering value through effective solutions. The commitment to ongoing personal and professional development is evident, with a focus on learning from failures and using feedback to improve business practices and product offerings. Establishing clear goals and regularly reviewing them is crucial for success. Utilising techniques like daily affirmations and strategic planning helps maintain focus and drive towards long-term objectives. BEST MOMENTS "I love being given a problem. I know it sounds absolutely ludicrous, but give me a problem and I'll find a way to solve it. That's just in my DNA." "If that deal hasn't come across the line, we haven't done our job properly. Have we not explained the product properly? Have we not listened to the client properly?" "Our motto is to coat the world. It's not ambitious at all, right? I see Nordic Chem playing a massive part in the commercial cleaning sector to solve problems." "You mentioned before that you were sort of like working early mornings, late evenings. Is that still a thing? Do you still need that?" "It's about solving those problems so that you can actually go chemical free, and you haven't got to haemorrhage hours doing monotonous tasks." HOST BIO Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow. He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting. Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader. Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week
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1 month ago
1 hour 2 minutes

Working On It
Key Strategies for Attracting Buyers and Scaling Without Burnout with Gillian Palmer
Today, Brad engages in an insightful conversation with Gillian Palmer, founder of Lending Made Simple. Gillian shares her entrepreneurial journey, from her early days in the corporate world with Xerox to building and selling her own businesses while raising a family. They delve into the mindset required for entrepreneurship, the importance of thinking outside the box, and the evolving landscape of finance and funding for businesses. Gillian highlights the significance of having a solid team, understanding the value of customer service, and preparing a business for potential sale or growth. KEY TAKEAWAYS Successful entrepreneurs often possess an innate ability to think outside the box and remain tenacious. This mindset drives them to continuously seek new opportunities and solutions, even in challenging circumstances. Building a strong team is crucial for delivering on promises made to clients. A business's success often hinges on its ability to execute effectively, which requires having the right people in place to support operations. The finance industry has evolved significantly, particularly with the rise of alternative funding options. Entrepreneurs should be aware of various financing avenues and the importance of maintaining a good credit rating, both personally and for their business. When considering selling a business, it's essential to have a clear plan and to prepare the business for sale by ensuring it has strong systems, processes, and a capable team in place. Engaging with advisors can help navigate this complex process. Selling a business can be an emotionally taxing experience, akin to significant life events such as moving or divorce. It's important to be prepared for the emotional ramifications and to seek support during the transition. BEST MOMENTS "I always say when I sell this one, I'm off to the beach. But funny enough, I was on holiday, and I was like, that's my next opportunity." "If you're not moving forward, you're actually moving. If you're stagnant, you're moving backwards." "You have to be a little bit of an outside the box thinker. You have to always be thinking about the next thing." "It's all about people. That connection. Yeah. Relationships." "You might have a business that somebody wants to get their hands on and it's an eye-watering amount of money." HOST BIO Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow. He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting. Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader. Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week
Show more...
1 month ago
1 hour

Working On It
How Self-Assessment and Discipline Drive Success in Business with Sandra Porter
In this very first episode of Working On It, Brad sits down with Sandra Porter, a people development specialist with extensive experience in HR and personality profiling. She shares her journey from recruitment to becoming a senior HR partner at major companies like O2 and Starbucks. Sandra discusses the evolving landscape of HR, the impact of technology and generational shifts on the workforce, and the challenges business owners face in navigating employment legislation. KEY TAKEAWAYS Sandra transitioned from recruitment to HR, starting with a background in psychology and gaining experience in various roles, including significant positions at O2 and Starbucks, where she served on the management board at a young age. Recent changes in employment legislation and generational expectations are reshaping the HR landscape, presenting challenges for business owners who must navigate these evolving requirements while managing their operations. Maintaining a strong company culture is crucial, especially when considering employment versus subcontracting. A cohesive team fosters collaboration and investment in personal development, which can be lost with a subcontracting model. The concept of work-life balance is viewed as a fluid integration of work and personal life, where passion for work can coexist with personal fulfilment. Engaging in activities like walking can provide mental clarity and enhance creativity. Regular reflection on experiences and outcomes is vital for personal and professional growth. This practice helps identify areas for improvement and prevents complacency, ensuring that time is used effectively and purposefully. BEST MOMENTS "There are so many changes in terms of technology that brings with it some implications from a HR perspective." "I do think it's putting people off recruiting." "I think it's very challenging... it does bring a lot of responsibility on the employer." "I think sometimes it's almost a battle between your head and your heart." "I can't bear the thought of wasting time." HOST BIO Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow. He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting. Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader. Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week
Show more...
1 month ago
1 hour 6 minutes

Working On It
Working On It | Trailer
What if growing your business didn’t mean sacrificing your time, your health, or your freedom?  Working On It is the podcast for service-based founders who want to scale without burning out. Each episode brings you honest conversations with experts, operators, and mentors - the same kind of people who’ve helped shape successful businesses from the inside out. We dive into the systems, strategies, and habits that drive performance - and show you how to build a company that works without you always having to be there. It’s about clarity, leadership, and reclaiming control - of your time, your team, and your next chapter.  If you're focused on building a business that runs without you - and a life that works because of you - then you're in the right place HOST BIO Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow. He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting. Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader. Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week
Show more...
2 months ago
1 minute

Working On It
What if growing your business didn’t mean sacrificing your time, your health, or your freedom?  Working On It is the podcast for service-based founders who want to scale without burning out. Each episode brings you honest conversations with experts, operators, and mentors - the same kind of people who’ve helped shape successful businesses from the inside out. We dive into the systems, strategies, and habits that drive performance - and show you how to build a company that works without you always having to be there. It’s about clarity, leadership, and reclaiming control - of your time, your team, and your next chapter.  If you're focused on building a business that runs without you - and a life that works because of you - then you're in the right place