ScaleX™ Insider Podcast

Money mindset blocks keeping you stuck? One entrepreneur went from $500K plateau to $1 million months by shifting ONE childhood belief. Serial entrepreneur Allison Maslan reveals the journaling work that uncovers hidden money blocks—and why strategy alone will never work if you're sabotaging yourself. Kita from Loosely Tea Market was stuck at $500K in revenue. Every strategy failed. Why? A hidden belief from childhood: "Nothing I do will work out." It wasn't conscious—but it was running her entire business. Allison Maslan's journaling work uncovered this self-sabotage pattern (foot on gas, foot on brake), and once Kita shifted to "Anything I set my mind to, I can make happen," everything changed. Within months: $1 million months. The lesson? Those money tapes—"money is evil," "who do you think you are?"—passed down from people we've never met, will run your entire life until you deal with them. What you'll discover: ✅ Real case study: $500K stuck to $1M months by shifting one belief ✅ Why strategy fails when money mindset sabotages (foot on gas AND brake) ✅ The journaling work that uncovers hidden childhood money blocks ✅ How "nothing will work out" became "I can make anything happen" ✅ Why worthiness issues cap your revenue ceiling ✅ The money tapes running your life: "Money is evil," "Who do you think you are?" ✅ How beliefs from people you've never met control your business ✅ Why shifting mindset unlocks empowerment, happiness, AND wealth Key Quotes: "She had this belief that no matter what she did, nothing was really going to work out. This came from her childhood—it wasn't reality, but it was a resistance." "As long as that belief was there, it didn't matter what strategies she implemented—she was always going to self-sabotage. Foot on the gas and foot on the brake at the same time." "Once we helped her shift that belief to 'anything I set my mind to, I can make happen,' she crossed her first million-dollar month. Now she's hitting close to that every single month." "Those beliefs—they're tapes that have been passed down from people we've never met. Money is evil, money doesn't grow on trees, who do you think you are? If we don't deal with them, they will run our entire life." 👉 Ready to uncover your money mindset blocks and scale with confidence? The ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme addresses both strategy AND mindset—helping you break through revenue plateaus by addressing the beliefs holding you back. Apply now: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme About Allison Maslan Allison Maslan is a serial entrepreneur (10 companies founded, 4 exited) and founder of Pinnacle Global Network. She combines strategic business frameworks with deep mindset work—including journaling practices that uncover hidden money blocks. Her client Kita (Loosely Tea Market) went from $500K stuck to $1M months by shifting a single childhood belief. Author of Scale or Fail: How to Build Your Dream Team, Explode Your Growth, and Let Your Business Soar. Connect with Allison: https://www.pinnacleglobalnetwork.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonmaslanScale or Fail About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling—creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme. A 12-month journey for ambitious SME leaders combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through revenue plateaus. 🔗 Learn more: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme Subscribe & Never Miss an Episode 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimpleScaling 🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/scalex-insider/id1494889789 🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0d7ZzJFe6uL3I6wzW3BlFx #MoneyMindset #500KTo1M #LimitingBeliefs #RevenueBreakthrough #ScalingWithPurpose #SelfSabotage

Imprisoned by your business? Can't see growth opportunities? Serial entrepreneur Allison Maslan explains why even successful founders need outside perspective to scale—and how her father's fashion empire taught her this lesson early. Allison Maslan built 10 companies and exited 4, but she still works with mentors today. Why? Because as she learned from her father—who built the largest privately-owned women's fashion business in 1960s-70s America—you're always limited in your view. In this powerful segment, Brendan McGurgan and Allison explore the "label in the jar" problem: when you're inside your business, you can't see the potential. Most leaders are imprisoned, unable to come up for air. Marshall Goldsmith was right: what got you here won't get you there. The solution? Outside eyes and mastering the art of letting go. What you'll discover: ✅ Why successful entrepreneurs still need mentors (you're limited in your view) ✅ The "label in the jar" metaphor that explains why founders get stuck ✅ How Allison's father built America's largest private women's fashion empire ✅ Why going store-to-store as a child beat business school ✅ Marshall Goldsmith's truth: "What got you here won't get you there" ✅ Why we cling to what we know (creatures of habit seeking security) ✅ The "run and gun" hustler phase that gets you started but blocks scale ✅ Why letting go is the hardest—and most essential—skill for growth Key Quotes: "I think it's really vital as a business owner to see that you're limited in your view. Why not work with people that have been there and done it?" "You can't see the label when you're inside the jar. So many leaders are imprisoned by their businesses and cannot see the potential." "What got you here won't get you there. We're creatures of habit—we hang on to what we know. It's like our security." "Letting go is probably the hardest thing business owners will ever do. When you can master letting go, then you can make room for the growth." 👉 Ready to get outside perspective and break free? The ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme gives you the mentorship, peer insight, and frameworks to escape being imprisoned by your business. Apply now: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme About Allison Maslan Allison Maslan is a serial entrepreneur (10 companies founded, 4 exited) and founder of Pinnacle Global Network. Her father built the largest privately-owned women's fashion business in 1960s-70s America—going store to store with him became her business education. Despite decades of success, she still works with mentors because "you're limited in your view." Author of Scale or Fail: How to Build Your Dream Team, Explode Your Growth, and Let Your Business Soar. Connect with Allison: https://www.pinnacleglobalnetwork.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonmaslanScale or Fail About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling—creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme. A 12-month journey for ambitious SME leaders who want outside perspective, expert mentorship, and proven frameworks to scale with purpose. 🔗 Learn more: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme Subscribe & Never Miss an Episode 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimpleScaling 🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/scalex-insider/id1494889789 🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0d7ZzJFe6uL3I6wzW3BlFx #ImprisonedByBusiness #OutsidePerspective #MentorshipMatters #LabelInTheJar #ScalingWithPurpose #SMEGrowth

In this episode of the ScaleX™ Insider podcast, Brendan McGurgan sits down with Allison Maslan — CEO and founder of Pinnacle Global Network, WSJ Best-Selling Author of Scale or Fail, and a serial entrepreneur who has scaled 10 companies since the age of 19. Alison has been recognised by Forbes as one of the Top 10 Women to Watch and is a regular contributor to Entrepreneur Magazine, with features in Success, Inc., Fortune, Fast Company, and Forbes. She has also appeared as an expert on ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, and Fox. Allison joins the show to explore what it truly means to scale a business with purpose, the mindset shifts leaders need to grow without burning out, and the practical strategies that allow entrepreneurs to expand impactfully while staying aligned with their vision. We dive deep into: What scaling with purpose really means in 2025 How leaders unintentionally hold themselves back and the mindset shifts required for growth Vision crafting: how to create a clear, inspiring roadmap that drives action Why letting go and empowering your team is critical to scaling Cash flow and financial organisation as the backbone of sustainable growth Building aligned leadership teams and fostering a culture of accountability How operational excellence, product development, and service leadership drive retention and long-term success Allison also shares powerful client success stories, including leaders who transformed their companies and scaled exponentially by implementing her methodology, showing that scaling is both achievable and strategic. 👉 Tune in to hear how purpose, vision, and empowered teams can fuel exponential growth while creating freedom and impact in your business. 📌 Connect with Allison Maslan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonmaslan/ Book: Scale or Fail – https://pinnacleglobalnetwork.com/book/ Podcast: The SCALEit Method | Women Who Own It About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you're an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (£750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/elevate #LeadershipImpact #MultipliersMindset #ScaleUpSuccess #SimpleScaling #SMEGrowth #ExecutiveLeadership

In this episode of the ScaleX™ Insider podcast, Brendan McGurgan sits down with Ranjay Gulati — Harvard Business School professor, leadership and organisational growth expert, and author of seven books including Deep Purpose: The Heart and Soul of High-Performance Companies. Ranjay joins the show to explore what it truly means to scale with purpose, how leaders can cultivate courage in themselves and others, and the principles that allow businesses to grow rapidly while retaining culture, innovation, and impact. We dive deep into: What scaling with purpose really means in 2025 How identity, mindset, and self-narratives determine whether a business can thrive The role of courage and confidence in leading through uncertainty Lessons from top-performing companies on balancing growth, culture, and long-term vision How leaders can build resilient organisations while activating purpose-driven teams Ranjay also shares his insights from decades of research, his interviews with entrepreneurs, and practical examples from business, sports, and real-life courageous acts to illustrate how leaders can navigate fear and uncertainty while driving transformation. 👉 Tune in to hear how purpose and courage can become the twin engines for scaling your business with impact. 📌 Connect with Ranjay Gulati: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ranjay-gulati/ Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001ITX0NG About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you’re an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (£750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/elevate #LeadershipImpact #MultipliersMindset #ScaleUpSuccess #SimpleScaling #SMEGrowth #ExecutiveLeadership

Scaling with purpose, leadership under pressure, and building a global SaaS platform from Belfast—Liam McStravick shares the raw truth about entrepreneurship in this episode of the ScaleX™ Insider podcast. Liam McStravick, Co-Founder and CEO of TeamFeePay, has founded seven businesses, remortgaged his house to fund his vision, and scaled from £1M to £5M ARR while growing his team from 20 to 70 people. In this conversation with host Brendan McGurgan, Liam reveals the pivotal moments that shaped his entrepreneurial journey—from collecting cash on football pitches to building Europe's fastest-growing grassroots football platform. In this episode you'll discover: - What scaling with purpose really means—and how it became Liam's decision-making framework - The three catalysts that sparked TeamFeePay (including a holiday revelation and a $54M startup exit story) - Why Liam remortgaged his house to extend his runway—and the conviction that kept him going - How leadership must evolve from 20 to 70 people (what got you here won't get you there) - The non-negotiable principle: "We serve at the pleasure of our customers" - Three timeless entrepreneur takeaways: embrace imperfection, prioritise self-care, and surround yourself with people you love - The audacious 2030 vision: £50M revenue, 300 employees, and owning the global grassroots football market Key Quotes: - "Scaling with purpose is figuring out what we stood for and what we stood against—what were absolute must-haves with everything we do as a company." - "Of every 10 customers we were winning, nine were in England and we were doing it from Belfast. - All the early signs were working." "It's always going to feel a little bit broken—and that's okay. It doesn't have to be perfect as long as every day you're taking another step towards that North Star." - "Do it with people you love and care about. The strength in our leadership team isn't about the boardroom—it's about being connected inside and outside work." Ready to scale your SME with purpose? The ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme is now open for applications. It's a 12-month transformational journey designed for ambitious SME leaders who want clarity, capability, and community to scale sustainably. Apply here: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme About Liam McStravick and TeamFeePay Liam McStravick is the Co-Founder and CEO of TeamFeePay, a SaaS platform supporting grassroots football clubs across the UK and Ireland. An entrepreneur since 2004, Liam has founded seven businesses and is a UEFA A Licensed Coach deeply committed to youth football development and community engagement. TeamFeePay helps clubs streamline operations, collect payments cashlessly, and free up volunteers to focus on developing players and strengthening communities. Connect with Liam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liammcstravick https://twitter.com/TeamFeePayWebsite: https://www.teamfeepay.com About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling, creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme—a 12-month cohort-based journey designed to inspire, connect, and enable ambitious leaders of SMEs to scale with purpose. Through world-class frameworks, peer learning, and expert mentorship, Simple Scaling helps entrepreneurs achieve clarity, build capability, and create lasting impact. Learn more: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme Subscribe & Never Miss an Episode Get weekly insights from world-class entrepreneurs and business leaders scaling with purpose. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimpleScaling Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/scalex-insider/id1494889789 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0d7ZzJFe6uL3I6wzW3BlFx Episode Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Liam McStravick and TeamFeePay 08:30 – What scaling with purpose means to Liam 15:45 – Growing up in North Belfast and learning entrepreneurship 23:20 – Six...

In this episode of the ScaleX™ Insider podcast, Brendan McGurgan is joined by Kim Scott — bestselling author of Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity and Radical Respect: How to Work Together Better. Kim is also the co-founder of Radical Candor, a company helping leaders worldwide put her frameworks into practice. Previously a CEO coach at Dropbox, Qualtrics, Twitter, and other tech giants, Kim has also been a faculty member at Apple University and held leadership roles at Google. Beyond tech, her eclectic career includes managing a pediatric clinic in Kosovo and launching a diamond-cutting factory in Moscow. Together, Brendan and Kim dive into: Why Radical Candor is the ultimate leadership framework for scaling companies How to avoid the traps of obnoxious aggression and ruinous empathy Practical ways SME leaders can build a culture of feedback while under pressure Why staying centred as a leader matters more than any management technique How to design your personal “recipe” for resilience and focus The power of soliciting feedback before giving it — and the right questions to ask Why empathy and accountability go hand-in-hand in high-growth environments Kim also shares stories from her time coaching leaders at some of the world’s fastest-growing companies, the lessons she’s learned about feedback and respect, and practical steps you can implement immediately to transform your leadership and culture. 👉 Learn more about Kim’s work at RadicalCandor.com and explore her books Radical Candor and Radical Respect to take your leadership to the next level. Connect with Kim: LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/kimm4/ 📈 About Simple Scaling: Simple Scaling helps SME leaders achieve exponential growth through expert coaching, masterclasses, and peer communities. Website: https://simplescaling.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simple_scaling Email: mailto:hello@simplescaling.com About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you’re an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (£750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/elevate #LeadershipImpact #MultipliersMindset #ScaleUpSuccess #SimpleScaling #SMEGrowth #ExecutiveLeadership

Scaling with Purpose: Adam Coffey on Private Equity, Empire Building & SME Growth. In this ScaleX Insider podcast, host Brendan McGurgan sits down with bestselling author, entrepreneur, and private equity expert Adam Coffey to uncover the playbook for scaling SMEs with purpose. From buy-and-build strategies to unit-level economics, Adam shares timeless takeaways on wealth creation, private equity partnerships, and building empires that last. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why scaling with purpose is critical for SMEs. The truth about private equity — and how SME leaders can leverage it. Buy-and-build explained in plain English. The importance of unit-level economics (the 30-20-10 rule). How to avoid the arrogance of success and shift from control freak to conductor. Creating generational wealth through multiple exits, not just one. Adam’s daily non-negotiables for energy, strategy, and family. Three timeless takeaways for entrepreneurs: focus on needs not wants, build recurring revenue, and always have a destination in mind. Adam’s passion, energy, and clarity turn the complex world of private equity into a simple, practical masterclass for ambitious SME leaders ready to scale with purpose. 🔗 Connect with Adam Coffey LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcoffeyceo Website: https://adamcoffey.com Seminars & Peer Groups: https://adamecoffey.com 🔗 Connect with ScaleX™ Insider & Simple Scaling Learn more about the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme Simple Scaling Website: https://simplescaling.com Contact Simple Scaling: https://simplescaling.com/contact Subscribe to the ScaleX Insider podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimpleScaling Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/scalex-insider/id1494889789 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0d7ZzJFe6uL3I6wzW3BlFx

In this episode of the ScaleX™ Insider podcast, Brendan McGurgan sits down once again with Claire Colvin — business partner, leadership strategist, and expert in scaling people-centred businesses. As Season 17 comes to a close, Claire reflects on the most powerful themes, insights, and lessons from the season, highlighting what truly drives leaders to scale with purpose. With extensive experience supporting high-growth companies and SME leaders, Claire shares her reflections on leadership, culture, values, and the practical frameworks that enable teams and businesses to thrive. We dive deep into: ✅ Multipliers vs. Diminishers – How leaders can unlock 100%+ of their team’s potential and avoid diminishing behaviours ✅ Giving Teams Permission – Creating safe spaces for feedback and accountability ✅ AI as a Challenger – Using AI to test assumptions, poke holes, and evaluate ideas effectively ✅ Commitment vs. Interest – The difference between casually showing up and fully committing to your growth and goals ✅ Scaling with Purpose – Why the journey transforms the leader as much as the business, and how purpose drives lasting impact ✅ Values & Behaviours in Action – Understanding personal and organisational values, and how they shape decisions and culture ✅ Reframing Control – From “letting go” to “inviting the village in” to support growth Claire also shares personal reflections on lifelong learning, testing herself through challenges, and the importance of curiosity, resilience, and ambition in scaling businesses. 📌 Connect with Claire Colvin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-colvin-586a162b 📈 About Simple Scaling: Simple Scaling helps SME leaders achieve exponential growth through expert coaching, masterclasses, and peer communities. Website: https://simplescaling.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simple_scaling Email: mailto:hello@simplescaling.com About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you’re an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (£750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/elevate #LeadershipImpact #MultipliersMindset #ScaleUpSuccess #SimpleScaling #SMEGrowth #ExecutiveLeadership

In this episode of the ScaleX™ Insider podcast, Brendan McGurgan sits down once again with Nick Bradley — entrepreneur, private equity veteran, and host of Scale Up Your Business. Nick returns to the show to discuss his brand-new book Exit for Millions: The Private Equity Blueprint for Scaling and Selling Your Business for Maximum Value. We dive deep into: What scaling with purpose means in 2025 Why identity and mindset determine whether your business can scale The biggest mistakes founders make when thinking about exits Private equity truths every entrepreneur must understand The Scale to Sale methodology — 5 pillars to maximise value How to build a business that is less dependent on you as the founder Why recurring revenue, strong margins, and predictable growth matter most The difference between being interested in scaling and being truly committed Nick also reveals why he went back into private equity after leaving it disillusioned, how entrepreneurs can leverage M&A to accelerate growth, and why every business owner should prepare for an exit — even if they never plan to sell. 👉 Nick’s new book Exit for Millions launches October 1st. Grab your copy to learn how to play the private equity game, scale your business, and achieve a life-changing exit. 📌 Connect with Nick Bradley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realnickbradley Website: https://highvalueexit.com Book: https://books.google.com/books/about/Exit_for_Millions.html?id=6JSL0QEACAAJ About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling, the business behind the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme — designed to inspire, connect, and enable millions of ambitious SME leaders to scale with purpose. 👉 Learn more about the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme: https://simplescaling.com/scalex-accelerator-programme 📧 Contact: hello@simplescaling.com 🌐 Website: https://simplescaling.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simplescaling Subscribe & Never Miss an Episode Stay inspired with weekly insights from world-class leaders. Subscribe to the ScaleX Insider podcast:

In this episode of ScaleX Insider, we’re joined by Robert Glazer, founder and Chairman of the Board of Acceleration Partners, the premier global partner marketing agency that has won over 30 awards for its world-class company culture. Leading a fully remote team of over 270 people, Robert shares his insights on building high-performance cultures, scaling businesses with purpose, and leading with values that drive both personal and organisational success. Drawing from his experience creating award-winning workplaces recognised globally, Robert unpacks how leaders can: Discover and align their personal core values to drive better decisions Translate those values into company culture and core principles Navigate challenging decisions and conflicts with clarity and integrity Build resilient teams that thrive in hybrid and rapidly changing environments Apply frameworks to foster accountability, ownership, and high engagement Through engaging stories and real-world examples, Robert demonstrates how values-driven leadership not only strengthens teams but also fuels sustainable growth and impact across organisations of all sizes. 💡 Key topics: Personal values discovery, values-driven leadership, high-performance culture, hybrid work strategies, resilient teams, ownership & accountability, decision-making frameworks, scaling with purpose. 🔎 About Robert Glazer: Robert Glazer is the founder and Chairman of the Board of Acceleration Partners, a global partner marketing agency recognised for its award-winning culture. He leads a fully remote team of over 270 people and is the author of Friday Forward, an inspirational newsletter reaching over 200,000 readers each week, as well as the #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling books Elevate, Friday Forward, and How To Thrive In The Virtual Workplace. Robert is also a global keynote speaker, TEDx presenter, host of the Elevate Podcast, and his work has been featured on the Today Show and in Harvard Business Review, Inc, Forbes, Entrepreneur, Fast Company, and Business Insider. Above all, he is passionate about sharing ideas that help people and organisations elevate their performance and reach their full potential. https://robertglazer.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/glazer/ElevateFriday ForwardHow To Thrive In The Virtual Workplace 📈 About Simple Scaling: Simple Scaling helps SME leaders achieve exponential growth through expert coaching, masterclasses, and peer communities. Website: https://simplescaling.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simple_scaling Email: mailto:hello@simplescaling.com About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you’re an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (£750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/elevate #LeadershipImpact #MultipliersMindset #ScaleUpSuccess #SimpleScaling #SMEGrowth #ExecutiveLeadership

In this episode of ScaleX Insider, we’re joined by Chad Jenkins and Dean Jackson to unpack the secrets of scaling businesses with purpose, impact, and clarity. Chad dives into his frameworks like Collaboration Currency and the IC3 formula, while Dean brings his decades of marketing wisdom as the co-creator of I Love Marketing, showing how vision, capability, and reach can be combined to create exponential growth. Together, they explore the VCR formula (Vision + Capability × Reach), demonstrating how entrepreneurs can: Identify and validate a scalable idea Build repeatable protocols to replicate success Extend reach through intentional “reach goggles” thinking Leverage collaboration to amplify outcomes Apply practical strategies for both SME and SMB leaders to scale faster They share real-world examples, from Kylie Jenner’s lip kits to MrBeast Burger, illustrating how vision, capability, and reach combine to create massive impact. The conversation also touches on the importance of clarity in vision (from black-and-white to 4D), the role of collaboration in business growth, and how modern tools like AI can accelerate capabilities and efficiency. 💡 Key topics: Collaboration currency, VCR formula, visionary leadership, scaling with purpose, marketing as leverage, partnership design, mindset for growth, leveraging AI for capability acceleration. 🔎 About Chad Jenkins: Chad is a growth strategist and the creator of SEEDSPARK CoLAB. Through his groundbreaking frameworks like ICM and icVCR, and a portfolio of 300+ high-impact collaborations, Chad helps entrepreneurs transform how they solve challenges and seize opportunities. Website: https://seedspark.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadtjenkins/ Books: Friction Fuel and Just Add Zero 🔎 About Dean Jackson: Dean Jackson is the co-creator of I Love Marketing, often regarded as the Marketing Buddha and a marketing philosopher. He teaches entrepreneurs how to use marketing as the ultimate lever to create a life of freedom, fun, and impact. Website: https://ilovemarketing.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thatdeanjackson/ 📈 About Simple Scaling: Simple Scaling helps SME leaders achieve exponential growth through expert coaching, masterclasses, and peer communities. Website: https://simplescaling.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simple_scaling Email: mailto:hello@simplescaling.com About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you’re an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (£750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/elevate #LeadershipImpact #MultipliersMindset #ScaleUpSuccess #SimpleScaling #SMEGrowth #ExecutiveLeadership

Is your career path really serving you — or is it time to rethink what “success” looks like? In this episode of the ScaleX Insider Podcast, Derek Coburn — entrepreneur, financial advisor, co-founder of CADRE, and bestselling author of Networking Is Not Working — shares his insights on building authentic professional connections, creating lasting value beyond the traditional networking playbook, and redefining what retirement really means. From challenging outdated models of career progression to showing leaders how to prioritise meaning, impact, and relationships, Derek helps entrepreneurs and CEOs unlock more freedom and fulfillment — now, not “someday.” We explore: ✅ Why most networking doesn’t work — and what to do instead ✅ The power of “un-networking” to create meaningful connections ✅ Why retiring retirement opens up new possibilities for living fully ✅ Balancing professional ambition with personal fulfillment ✅ Practical ways to connect, contribute, and thrive in business and life 📌 Connect with Derek Coburn 🌐 Website: https://www.derekcoburn.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekcoburn/ 📖 Books: Networking Is Not Working (2014), Let’s Retire Retirement (2025) 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you’re an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (for £750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/ 🌐 Website: https://www.simplescaling.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 🎧 Listen to More ScaleX™ Insider Episodes 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimpleScaling 🎙 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kxPOgS4YArDZtP3VhXlJY 🎙 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/scalex-insider-podcast/id1556396323

Is your leadership and team performance stuck… or is it a purpose problem? In this episode of the ScaleX Insider Podcast, Sarah Rozenthuler — Chartered Psychologist, leadership coach, dialogue consultant, and author of Powered by Purpose — shares her insights on how connecting with purpose can energise people, transform teams, and scale your organisation with impact. From fostering authentic conversations to embedding purpose at every level of your business, Sarah shows SME leaders how to unlock motivation, alignment, and ambition by focusing on meaningful work before chasing metrics and processes. We explore: ✅ How purpose drives engagement, performance, and wellbeing ✅ Creating authentic conversations that connect teams and stakeholders ✅ The four capacities for leading with purpose ✅ Using stories — not slogans — to make purpose real ✅ Practical steps to embed purpose in day-to-day work 📌 Connect with Sarah Rozenthuler 🌐 Website: https://sarahrozenthuler.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarah-rozenthuler 📖 Book: Powered by Purpose (2020) 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you’re an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (for £750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/ 🌐 Website: https://www.simplescaling.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 🎧 Listen to More ScaleX™ Insider Episodes 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimpleScaling 🎙 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kxPOgS4YArDZtP3VhXlJY 🎙 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/scalex-insider-podcast/id1556396323

Is your marketing a traffic problem… or a belief problem? In this episode of the ScaleX Insider Podcast, Billy Broas — author of Simple Marketing for Smart People — shares his Five Light Bulbs Framework for crafting marketing messages that build belief, cut through the noise, and scale your business. From shifting your mindset to creating a unique approach that differentiates you in crowded markets, Billy shows SME leaders how to win more customers, more predictably, by focusing on the right message before chasing channels and tactics. We explore: ✅ Why belief — not traffic — drives sustainable scaling ✅ The Five Light Bulbs Framework for core marketing messaging ✅ How to position your unique approach in competitive markets ✅ Turning empathy and proof into powerful customer arguments ✅ Using AI as a “debate partner” to strengthen your messaging 📌 Connect with Billy Broas 🌐 Website: https://www.billybroas.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billybroas 📖 Book: https://www.simplemarketingbook.com 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you’re an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (for £750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/ 🌐 Website: https://www.simplescaling.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 🎧 Listen to More ScaleX™ Insider Episodes 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimpleScaling 🎙 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kxPOgS4YArDZtP3VhXlJY 🎙 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/scalex-insider-podcast/id1556396323

In this episode, Natasha Hawker — leading people strategist, workplace culture expert, and author of From Hire to Fire & Everything in Between — joins Brendan McGurgan on ScaleX Insider to explore how purpose-driven leadership, people-first practices, and courageous conversations drive sustainable business growth. With over 25 years of HR experience and as founder of Employee Matters, Natasha brings a wealth of knowledge on building compliant, high-performing teams. She shares hard-won insights on how entrepreneurs can scale with purpose while balancing the demands of business and family. From modelling leadership at home and in the workplace, to understanding the hidden costs of poor people practices, Natasha unpacks the real-world strategies that enable business owners to lead with impact, integrity, and intention. You’ll hear how Natasha navigated entrepreneurship while raising a young family, why giving back to your team and clients is essential, and how to stop being “unconsciously incompetent” when it comes to people management. 💡 Key topics: Scaling with purpose Modelling leadership in business and life Building strong people practices Balancing entrepreneurship and family Courageous conversations in the workplace Compliance and culture as growth tools Can Small Businesses Win with AI? 🔎 About Natasha Hawker: Natasha Hawker is a leading expert in people management, workplace culture, and HR strategy. With over 25 years of experience in senior HR roles across global firms and as the founder of Employee Matters, she helps businesses unlock their potential through better people practices. Her bestselling book, From Hire to Fire & Everything in Between, is a practical guide for business owners and managers on how to hire, manage, and exit staff legally and effectively. Natasha’s approach is grounded in deep expertise, commercial insight, and a passion for changing workplaces for the better. Website: https://www.natashahawker.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natashahawker Book: From Hire to Fire & Everything In Between 📈 About Simple Scaling: Simple Scaling helps SME leaders achieve exponential growth through expert coaching, masterclasses, and peer communities. Website: https://simplescaling.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simple_scaling Email: mailto:hello@simplescaling.com About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you’re an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (£750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/elevate #LeadershipImpact #MultipliersMindset #ScaleUpSuccess #SimpleScaling #SMEGrowth #ExecutiveLeadership

In this episode, Chad Jenkins — collaboration strategist, entrepreneur, and author of Friction Fuel and Just Add Zero — joins Brendan McGurgan to explore how visionary leaders unlock growth through purpose-driven collaboration. Chad shares the powerful frameworks behind SEEDSPARK CoLAB, including his signature models like Collaboration Currency, the IC3 formula, and Vision + Capability × Reach. With insights from guiding 300+ collaborations, Chad reveals how to think bigger, scale with purpose, and build a high-impact network of vision partners. You’ll discover how to apply “just add zero” thinking, the daily GRACE routine for mindset, and the vital role of a collab architect in designing scalable partnerships — all grounded in Chad’s deep experience helping entrepreneurs move beyond friction and into exponential success. 💡 Key topics: Collaboration currency, exponential growth, visionary leadership, scaling with purpose, partnership design, mindset routines, entrepreneur breakthroughs, the power of thinking bigger. 🔎 About Chad Jenkins: Chad is a growth strategist and the creator of SEEDSPARK CoLAB. Through his groundbreaking frameworks like ICM and icVCR, and a portfolio of 300+ high-impact collaborations, Chad helps entrepreneurs transform how they solve challenges and seize opportunities. Website: https://seedspark.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadtjenkins/ Books: Friction Fuel and Just Add Zero 📈 About Simple Scaling: Simple Scaling helps SME leaders achieve exponential growth through expert coaching, masterclasses, and peer communities. Website: https://simplescaling.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simple_scaling Email: mailto:hello@simplescaling.com About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you’re an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (£750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/elevate #LeadershipImpact #MultipliersMindset #ScaleUpSuccess #SimpleScaling #SMEGrowth #ExecutiveLeadership

In this episode, Liz Wiseman — bestselling author of Multipliers and global leadership expert — joins Brendan McGurgan to explore how leaders scale teams, multiply impact, and unlock performance in fast-growing businesses. Liz shares insights from her work with Apple, Google, and Netflix, explaining how “diminisher” vs. “multiplier” behaviors impact business growth. You’ll learn practical strategies to lead with curiosity, delegate for scale, and build resilience in leadership teams. 💡 Key topics: leadership impact, scaling teams, multiplier mindset, executive development, avoiding burnout, high-performance culture, leadership transformation. 🎙 About Liz Wiseman: Website: https://thewisemangroup.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizwiseman Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/wisemanl Book: Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter 📈 About Simple Scaling: Simple Scaling helps SME leaders achieve exponential growth through expert coaching, masterclasses, and peer communities. Website: https://simplescaling.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simple_scaling Email: mailto:hello@simplescaling.com About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ helps SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast shares insights from top entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you’re an SME leader looking for a proven plan to scale, here are two ways to work with us: 👉 Join the Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme (2026) For CEOs, founders & MDs of SMEs (£2m–30m revenue) ready to scale leadership, teams, and value. Join the waitlist: https://scalexaccelerator.simplescaling.com/ 👉 Join ScaleX Elevate (£750k–2m businesses) A digital learning community with weekly training, support, and expert sessions — designed to give you a roadmap to 2x your revenue and talent within 2 years. Register your interest: https://scalexinsights.simplescaling.com/elevate #LeadershipImpact #MultipliersMindset #ScaleUpSuccess #SimpleScaling #SMEGrowth #ExecutiveLeadership

In this episode of the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast, Brendan McGurgan speaks with Richard Harpin, founder of HomeServe and author of How to Make a Billion in Nine Steps. Richard shares his extraordinary journey from childhood entrepreneur to building a multi-billion-pound global business. Discover: ✅ The brutal lessons from near-bankruptcy ✅ How to copy, pivot, and find your magic business model ✅ Why hiring local talent is the key to global success ✅ How to build resilience, persistence, and entrepreneurial grit ✅ The real power of a “Not To Do” list for scaling ✅ Why mentoring and hiring your replacement can transform your leadership If you’re an SME leader, this episode is packed with practical steps and inspiring insights to help you scale with purpose. 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast ScaleX™ is a platform designed to help SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast brings insights from world-class entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you're an SME leader who wants help to scale with purpose and a proven plan and framework to get there, here's two ways you can work with us: 👉 Join our Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme in 2026! (For SME leaders generating £2m–30m annually.) Since 2020, we've run a 12-month group coaching programme designed for CEOs, founders, and MDs of SMEs who want to scale their business, their own leadership, their teams, and their value proposition. In 90 days, we'll spot the bottlenecks stopping you and devise a plan to achieve limitless business. 🌐 Richard Harpin Contact Details Website: https://harpin.com Business Leader: https://businessleader.co.uk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-harpin-5123a723/ Instagram: (no public profile found — recommend just using LinkedIn and website) Newsletter sign-up (coming soon via harpin.com) Book: How to Make a Billion in Nine Steps (check site for updates) 🌐 Simple Scaling Contact Details Website: https://simplescaling.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simple_scaling/ Email: hello@simplescaling.com #Entrepreneurship #ScalingBusiness #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #RichardHarpin #ScaleXInsider

In this heartfelt and high-value episode of the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast, host Brendan McGurgan sits down with sibling co-founders Clare and Paul Vallely of Kukoon, a global e-commerce business born out of humble beginnings in Northern Ireland. What started as a side hustle selling leftover rugs on eBay has transformed into a powerhouse business shipping 8,000+ rugs weekly to over 60 countries, generating £16.5M in revenue and £2M in profits in 2024 alone. The Vallelys are now scaling toward £20M turnover, while building a purpose-led team of 55, developing strategic partnerships, and entering retail. This is more than a story of growth — it’s a journey of resilience, family, purpose, and belief. Graduates of the ScaleX Accelerator, Clare and Paul open up about their pivotal mindset shifts, the power of intentional scaling, and the risks they took when no one was watching — including putting £100K of credit card debt on the line with the help of their mum. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: What scaling with purpose really means — and how to apply it Why intentionality is the secret ingredient to sustainable growth How the Vallelys went from taking photos of rugs in their living room to managing 40ft shipping containers What it takes to build trust, engagement, and resilience in your team How belief — both self-belief and support from others — is often the biggest catalyst for scaling Why Kukoon’s story resonates with SME leaders trying to scale without losing who they are ⏱ Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome to Kukoon: The Story Behind the Brand 03:12 – What Scaling With Purpose Means (Claire) 06:40 – The Role of Values and Community Impact (Paul) 10:15 – Humble Beginnings: From eBay Course to Startup 14:28 – The Power of Grit, Curiosity & Trading DNA 18:20 – Our First Trade Show & The 40ft Container Gamble 21:45 – £100K in Credit Card Debt — and Mum’s Unshakable Belief 26:10 – The Impact of Family Support on Our Scaling Journey 29:55 – Sliding Doors Moments: Paul’s Pivot Toward Entrepreneurship 32:50 – Why We Still Scale With Intention Today 🔗 Connect with Kukoon: 🌐 Website: https://www.kukoonrugs.com 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/clare-vallely-62980a21/?originalSubdomain=uk| linkedin.com/in/paulvallely-kukoon/ 🔎 Learn More About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling: 🌐 Website: https://www.simplescaling.com 🎙 Podcast: https://www.simplescaling.com/podcast 📩 Newsletter: https://www.simplescaling.com/newsletter 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ is a platform designed to help SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast brings insights from world-class entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you're an SME leader who wants help to scale with purpose and a proven plan and framework to follow to get there, here's two ways you can work with us: 👉 Join our Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme in 2026! (For SME leaders generating £2m–30m annually.) Since 2020, we've run a 12-month group coaching programme designed for CEOs, founders and MDs of SMEs who want to scale their business, their own leadership, their teams and their value proposition. In 90 days, we'll spot the bottlenecks stopping you right now and devise a plan throughout the rest of the programme on how you can achieve limitless business. If that sounds good to you, click here to join our waitlist for 2026 📢 Subscribe for weekly insights on how to Scale with Purpose: https://www.youtube.com/@scalexinsider #ScalingWithPurpose, #SMELeadership, #PurposeDrivenBusiness, #FounderMindset, #EthicalEntrepreneurship

In this reflective and uplifting episode of the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast, host Brendan McGurgan is joined once again by Claire Colvin — strategic advisor, leadership coach, and longtime friend of the ScaleX community — to recap the standout moments, lessons, and voices from Season 16. From climbing 26 peaks across Ireland to raising £1.4 million for children affected by cancer, Claire brings her own personal stories into the fold, offering vivid metaphors for leadership, team alignment, and scaling with heart. Whether you're navigating uncertainty, building your team, or questioning what success really means, this episode is a powerful reminder that you don’t need to have it all figured out—you just need to keep moving with intention. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: Why scaling alone is meaningless—and how to bring your team with you What climbing 26 mountains taught Claire about leadership and resilience The power of bold goals and a shared purpose to move people How to course correct when the path no longer feels right Why intentionality beats perfection in life and business What emerging female leaders brought to this season How reflection can fuel the next phase of your journey ⏱ Chapters: 00:00 – Thanking our global audience and contributors 03:10 – Claire’s summer mission: 300-mile cycle for charity 06:40 – Climbing 26 peaks in 9 days: A metaphor for real leadership 14:00 – The journey matters more than the view 17:45 – Reflections on purpose-led fundraising and vision 22:20 – Highlights from our female guests and their wisdom 25:10 – The rising theme of intentionality and course correction 33:00 – Encouragement for young leaders and second acts 36:00 – Claire’s personal journey of self-questioning and decisive chang 🎧 Tune in now to discover why the greatest change you'll ever lead… is the one within yourself. Connect with Claire Colvin: 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/claire-colvin-586a162b/?originalSubdomain=uk 🔎 Learn More About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling: 🌐 Website: https://www.simplescaling.com 🎙 Podcast: https://www.simplescaling.com/podcast 📩 Newsletter: https://www.simplescaling.com/newsletter 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simple-scaling 🧭 About Simple Scaling & ScaleX™ Insider Podcast: ScaleX™ is a platform designed to help SME leaders scale with purpose using the proven ScaleX™ Framework. Hosted by Brendan McGurgan, the ScaleX™ Insider Podcast brings insights from world-class entrepreneurs and business thinkers. If you're an SME leader who wants help to scale with purpose and a proven plan and framework to follow to get there, here's two ways you can work with us: 👉 Join our Northern Ireland ScaleX Accelerator Programme in 2026! (For SME leaders generating £2m–30m annually.) Since 2020, we've run a 12-month group coaching programme designed for CEOs, founders and MDs of SMEs who want to scale their business, their own leadership, their teams and their value proposition. In 90 days, we'll spot the bottlenecks stopping you right now and devise a plan throughout the rest of the programme on how you can achieve limitless business. If that sounds good to you, click here to join our waitlist for 2026 📢 Subscribe for weekly insights on how to Scale with Purpose: https://www.youtube.com/@scalexinsider #ScalingWithPurpose, #SMELeadership, #PurposeDrivenBusiness, #FounderMindset, #EthicalEntrepreneurship