Living the Small Business Life

In this episode we explore the rapidly evolving world of AI and its immediate and future implications for small businesses. We chat about our own levels of AI adoption, ranging from complete skepticism to leveraging it for daily operational efficiency. We talked about key tools like Microsoft Copilot, concerns over data security, the impact of AI on creative content and jobs, and the necessity of maintaining human connection in an increasingly automated world.00:07 - Introduction: AI in Small Business00:21 - Are We Using AI in Our Businesses?00:41 - Using Microsoft Copilot and Other AI Tools01:30 - AI Skepticism and Industry Challenges03:09 - The Creative and Tone Problem with AI04:31 - Managing AI with the Team and Copilot Benefits05:15 - AI for Meeting Efficiency and Proposal Drafting07:28 - AI Email Management with Fixer09:12 - Security and Data Concerns with Copilot and AI11:36 - The Fundamental Bias and Environmental Cost of Large Language Models12:41 - Using Gemini and Closed Data Sets13:36 - AI and Cyber Security Threats15:06 - Massive Increase in AI-Generated Email Threats16:44 - Deep Fake Voices and Financial Fraud Examples17:37 - The Rise of Deep Fake Video and Image Creative19:43 - Younger Generations' Perspective on AI Content20:57 - The Evolution of CGI and Creative AI23:33 - The Impact of AI on Jobs and Industries27:00 - Job Differentiation vs. Elimination28:47 - The Future of Work: AI Employees and Flexible Hours29:54 - Over-Employment Enabled by AI30:30 - Is AI a Bad Thing? Reflections on Current Use31:14 - Microsoft Power Platform and No-Code Solutions33:10 - Refining AI Output and Focusing on Human Connection35:17 - AI Tools Used by the Hosts39:03 - The Competitive Disadvantage of Not Using AI41:15 - AI Reducing Admin Burden42:58 - Conclusion and Future Outlook

Welcome back to Living the Small Business Life! In this episode, we're joined by Laura Dolphin, the founding director of Dolphin Outsourcing. Laura shares her inspiring journey of building a social enterprise that champions flexible work and empowers individuals facing challenging circumstances.She talks about the origins of her company, the unique services they offer, and how they navigate the evolving landscape of business, including the impact of the 2020 pandemic. Laura also offers valuable advice for aspiring business owners and introduces her new product, Will Plus, designed to help entrepreneurs plan for unexpected life events.0:00:00 Introduction to Laura Dolphin and Dolphin Outsourcing0:01:13 Services Provided by Dolphin Outsourcing0:02:20 Dolphin Outsourcing's Ideal Client0:04:22 The Driving Force Behind Starting Dolphin Outsourcing0:06:45 Laura's Career Before Starting Her Company0:08:31 Impact of COVID-19 on Dolphin Outsourcing0:14:12 Flexible Working Opportunities at Dolphin Outsourcing0:27:22 Laura's Approach to Work-Life Balance0:32:48 Advice for Aspiring Small Business Owners0:35:56 Biggest Challenges Faced by Dolphin Outsourcing0:44:39 Marketing Strategies and Growth Plans0:40:51 Will Plus: A Product for Business Owners Facing Challenging Times0:45:29 Conclusion---Find us on socials here: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-the-small-business-lifeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/livingthesmallbusinesslifeTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@living.the.smallFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Living-the-Small-Business-Life/61556920702846/Twitter / X - https://x.com/living_smblife

In this episode of "Living the Small Business Life," join us as we chat with Jamie Thacker, Managing Director of Hearn's Coaches. Jamie shares his unique journey of entering the family business straight out of university, the challenges of navigating the coach hire industry through the pandemic, and his insights on managing a growing fleet. He discusses the evolution of Hearn's Coaches from a school contract focus to a diverse business and the importance of adapting to change and investing in a supportive work environment.0:00 Intro0:20 About Hearn's Coaches1:01 Jamie's Journey with the Business2:34 Control of the Business3:20 Business Then vs. Now5:02 The Impact of COVID6:42 Acquiring a Competitor10:14 Starting in the Family Business13:19 Challenges in the Transport Industry16:14 Staffing Challenges in Small Business20:29 Creating a Positive Work Environment22:06 Starting a Small Business After University26:31 Work-Life Balance30:11 The Future of Electric Coaches33:57 Chinese Coach Manufacturing37:06 Advice for Small Business Owners38:33 Outro---Find us on socials here: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-the-small-business-lifeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/livingthesmallbusinesslifeTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@living.the.smallFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Living-the-Small-Business-Life/61556920702846/Twitter / X - https://x.com/living_smblife

Next up on Living the Small Business Life, we sit down with Chris from ACS Staffing Solutions to discuss the challenges and successes of scaling a recruitment business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hear about Chris's journey, from how he and his wife Helen started the business, to navigating the ups and downs of the recruitment industry. Learn about the impact of COVID-19 on their operations, the importance of strong company culture, and the lessons learned in managing cash flow and scaling effectively. Whether you're a business owner or interested in the recruitment sector, Chris's insights offer valuable takeaways.00:00 Introduction to the Episode00:19 Meet Chris: The Journey Begins02:19 Scaling the Business: Challenges and Strategies04:42 Navigating COVID-19: A Turning Point06:20 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business Operations13:17 Post-COVID Adjustments and Market Shifts21:40 Company Vision and Culture27:37 Strategic Partnerships and AI Integration28:11 Scaling Challenges and HR Foundations31:46 Leadership and Team Dynamics36:44 Economic Impact on Recruitment39:06 Navigating Financial Struggles49:41 Customer Relationships and Retention52:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts---Find us on socials here: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-the-small-business-lifeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/livingthesmallbusinesslifeTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@living.the.smallFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Living-the-Small-Business-Life/61556920702846/Twitter / X - https://x.com/living_smblife

Welcome to Season 3 of Living the Small Business Life! In our first episode we recap the end of 2024, discussing highs, lows, and market hesitancy. Then we dive into our strategies for 2025, highlighting plans for growth and customer retention. With personal anecdotes and insights, this episode provides valuable perspectives for small business owners facing uncertain times. Don't miss out on hearing from upcoming guests and learning effective business strategies - hit subscribe to get the next episodes straight away!00:00 Welcome to Season Three00:30 Reflecting on 202401:12 Business Hesitancy and Market Uncertainty03:43 Changes and New Beginnings05:01 Starting Fresh in 202508:54 Launching a New Business12:38 Strategies for Growth and Retention22:25 Customer Retention Challenges24:01 Challenges in Customer Retention24:57 The Impact of Relationships on Business27:23 Customer Service and Retention Strategies29:14 Dealing with Customer Loss31:12 Balancing New and Existing Customers33:05 Strategies for Long-Term Customer Relationships44:18 The Cost of Losing a Customer48:47 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes---Find us on socials here: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-the-small-business-lifeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/livingthesmallbusinesslifeTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@living.the.smallFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Living-the-Small-Business-Life/61556920702846/Twitter / X - https://x.com/living_smblife

In the final episode of 'Living the Small Business Life' Season Two, Ben, Ben and I reflect on the highlights and lessons learned from our conversations with various guests. We discuss the realities of running a small business, the unplanned nature of business growth, the importance of drive and determination, and the significance of work-life balance. We also emphasise the value of backing oneself, the freedom that comes with entrepreneurship, and the evolving nature of networking. Special mentions to our wonderful guests from Season Two - More Driver Solutions, Vision 29, Happydashery, and Red Rascal Creative. 00:00 Welcome to the Season Finale01:09 Reflecting on Our Guests01:49 Key Takeaways from Season Two02:11 The Reality of Business Planning04:04 Challenges with Admin and Regulations09:09 Balancing Work and Life12:21 The Importance of Physical Activity18:27 Would You Go Back to Employment?22:40 The Freedom of Running a Small Business24:43 Networking and Knowledge Sharing30:19 Looking Forward to Season Three31:28 Thank You and GoodbyeMore Driver Solutions - https://moredriversolutions.ltd.uk/Happydashery - https://happydashery.co.uk/Vision 29 - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocoxhillRed Rascal Creative - https://www.redrascalcreative.com/---Check out the dedicated page for the Living the Small Business Life Podcast: https://movedigital.co.uk/podcast/living-the-small-business-life/Or, connect with us in the comments below or find us on social media ⬇️https://www.instagram.com/livingthesmallbusinesslifehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/living-the-small-business-life/https://www.tiktok.com/@living.the.smallhttps://www.twitter.com/living_smblife