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Explore every episode of the podcast Beyond the Business Card

Dive into the complete episode list for Beyond the Business Card. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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1–25 of 25

TitlePub. DateDuration
Second-Citizenship Business, Real Estate Empire & a Children’s Home by 31 | Jeffrey Henseler16 Jun 202501:08:44

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, Justin McGuire sits down with Jeffrey Henseler, the founder and Group Chairman of PL Group — a global citizenship-by-investment and passport solutions company, alongside real estate development, headquartered in Dubai.Jeffrey shares his inspiring journey from growing up in a small Swiss village, skipping university, and selling stones as a kid, to launching a company spanning eight countries with 70+ employees. From driving tanks in national service to creating an orphanage in Mozambique and helping high-net-worth individuals legally obtain second passports, this episode reveals a story of humility, hustle, and impactful entrepreneurship.💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:  • Why citizenship-by-investment is booming and often misunderstood• How Jeffrey launched PL Group without investors• How COVID accelerated his business success globally• The role of Switzerland’s apprenticeship system in shaping entrepreneurs• His honest insights on hiring, scaling teams, and building company culture• The reality behind luxury social media and false success narratives• What it takes to build trust in a complex industryThis episode is a reminder that success doesn’t require a degree, and that helping others can go hand-in-hand with building a legacy.🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more stories that go beyond the business card.    📲 Connect with Jeffrey Henseler:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffreyjayy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-henseler-a42421100/ Website: https://www.plgroup.com/   📲 Follow Justin McGuire:        Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/        LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire                📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:        Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com        LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/        Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/                📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:        Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/        LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/

How a Former Crime Reporter Built One of the UAE’s Top PR Agencies | Gregg Fray02 Jun 202501:30:47

What happens when a crime reporter swaps front-page headlines for building one of the UAE’s top communications agencies?In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, Justin McGuire sits down with Gregg Fray, founder of Seven Media, to unpack his bold leap from Liverpool’s newsrooms to the heart of the Middle East's PR industry.No fluff — just the real story of how Greg built a high-performing agency in a market he didn’t grow up in, the lessons he learned scaling it, and why storytelling is still the most powerful tool in business.💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: • How Greg’s journalism roots gave him a competitive edge in PR• The gritty reality of launching a business in a new country• Why storytelling can make or break a brand• How to lead a team that actually wants to stick around• Hard-won advice for anyone navigating the media industryWhether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a PR or media professional, or just curious about the real stories behind business growth, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more stories that go beyond the business card. 📲 Connect with Gregg Fray: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ3tcPigCJ2/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregg-fray-379a8620/ Website: https://sevenmedia.ae/ 📲 Follow Justin McGuire:       Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire              📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:       Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/       Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/              📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:       Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/

Beyond the Business Card with Idriss Al Rifai: The Rise, The Fall & The Comeback 24 Mar 202501:18:13

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with Idriss Al Rifai, a celebrated entrepreneur known for building and scaling Fetchr, one of the largest logistics startups in the Middle East. 

 

Idriss opens up about his journey from professional basketball to special forces, his rise as a startup founder, and the harsh realities of entrepreneurship. He also shares how he went from a personal worth of $300 million to zero, what he learned from the experience, and how he’s now building something even bigger. This is a must-watch for anyone serious about business, resilience, and personal growth. Tune in to hear his incredible story. 

 

 

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:  

 

✅ How Idriss Al Rifai transitioned from Special Forces to startup founder. 


✅ The real challenges of scaling a logistics company in the Middle East. 


✅ Why raising $25 million didn’t solve all the problems. 


✅ The mindset required to survive market crashes and investor pressure. 


✅ What most entrepreneurs get completely wrong about building a business. 


✅ The biggest lessons from seeing 25+ companies collapse — and why only 2 survived. 


✅ Why profitability and resilience matter more than hype. 

  

 

🔔 Subscribe to Beyond the Business Card for more inspiring stories! 

 

 

📲 Follow Justin McGuire:  

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/  

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire  

  

 

📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:  

 

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com  

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/?originalSubdomain=ae  

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/  

 

  

📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:  

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/  

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/mycompany/  

  

 

📲 Connect with Idriss Al Rifai:  

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ialrifai/ 

 

Website: https://www.flow48.com/ 

Beyond the Business Card with Susanna Gray-Jones: Resilience, Sales, and the Power of Influence 17 Mar 202501:13:46

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with Susanna Gray-Jones, a sales leader and entrepreneur with a remarkable journey of resilience, adaptability, and success. 


Susanna opens up about growing up as the headmaster’s daughter, learning to thrive with dyslexia and dyspraxia, and how those early challenges shaped her competitive edge in sales and recruitment. From hustling her way into Cambridge University to becoming a high-performing sales leader, she shares how influence, mindset, and self-awareness have driven her career. 

 

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: 


✅ How Susanna turned setbacks into a competitive advantage 

✅ The role of influence and persuasion in sales success 

✅ Why she believes mindset trumps education for entrepreneurs 

✅ The importance of resilience and adaptability in career growth 

✅ How she learned the hard way about leadership, humility, and trust 

 

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from top entrepreneurs. 


📲 Stay Connected with Beyond the Business Card Podcast:   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-the-business-card-podcast/   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthebusinesscardpodcast/   


📲 Follow Justin McGuire:   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/   


📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:   

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/     


📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:   

Website: https://www.mcgtalent.io   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/   

Beyond the Business Card with Mohammed Tayem: Turning Unemployment into Entourage 10 Mar 202500:41:07

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, Founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with Mohammed Tayem, Founder & CEO of Entourage, one of the leading marketing and events agencies in the Middle East.


From losing his job during the 2008 financial crisis to building a regional powerhouse that competes with global agencies, Mohammed’s story is packed with entrepreneurial grit, risk-taking, and strategic thinking.


💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:


✅ The bold risk he took that launched Entourage in the middle of a financial crisis.

✅ How he landed Google as a client, after thinking their email was spam.

✅ His biggest breakthroughs, including winning the World Government Summit account against global agencies.

✅ The additional business pivot that saved his business during the pandemic.

✅ Why he’s expanded into Milan and his ultimate goal of organising the FIFA 2034 opening ceremony


🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from top entrepreneurs!


📲 Stay Connected with Beyond the Business Card Podcast:   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-the-business-card-podcast/   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthebusinesscardpodcast/   


📲 Follow Justin McGuire:   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/   


📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:   

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/     


📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:   

Website: https://www.mcgtalent.io   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/   


📲 Connect with Mohammed Tayem:   

Website: https://entourageintl.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedtayem/

Beyond the Business Card with Helen McGuire: From Maternity Leave to Million-Dollar Business 03 Mar 202501:16:05

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, Founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with Helen McGuire, an entrepreneur who transformed her career from producing shows at BBC Radio 1 to founding Diversely, an AI-driven tech platform tackling workplace bias on a global scale. 

 

Helen opens up about her unique journey. From landing her dream job at BBC Radio 1 after two and a half years of unpaid work to pivoting into the advertising industry and eventually building a remote tech startup with a fully distributed team across five countries. She candidly discusses the challenges of scaling a purpose-driven business, navigating the 2022 tech downturn, and successfully selling Diversely to The Access Group, a £9 billion company. 

 

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: 

 

✅ The grit required to pursue a dream job, including two years of unpaid work at BBC Radio 1 before landing a role on her favourite show. 

 

✅ Why she left her dream job and how she navigated a career shift into the advertising world. 

 

✅ The birth of Diversely, an AI-driven solution to tackle workplace bias, which stemmed from her previous startup, Hopscotch. 

 

✅ The reality of building a remote tech startup and managing a team across five countries, without ever meeting them in person. 

 

✅ Her decision to sell Diversely, and why scaling during a financial downturn led to her exit strategy. 

 

✅ The power of curiosity and resilience: Helen’s philosophy on turning challenges into opportunities — lessons she now shares as the author of The Female Founder Formula and Founder of The Founder’s Sanctuary. 

 

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from top entrepreneurs. 

 

 

 

📲 Stay Connected with Beyond the Business Card Podcast:   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-the-business-card-podcast/   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthebusinesscardpodcast/   

  

📲 Follow Justin McGuire:   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/   

   

📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:   

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/   

   

📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:   

Website: https://www.mcgtalent.io   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/   

   

📲 Connect with Helen McGuire:   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenmcguireme/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helen_mcguire_official/?hl=en  

 

Beyond the Business Card with Shadi Abdulhadi: How He Built a Global Agency from Scratch 24 Feb 202500:51:36

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, Founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with Shadi Abdulhadi, Founder & CEO of Boopin, a leading digital agency that has expanded from Dubai to 10 global offices across the GCC, Asia-Pacific, and Europe. 

 

Shadi shares his incredible journey, from studying aerospace engineering to pivoting into investment and ultimately launching Boopin in 2011, despite having zero working experience in marketing.  

 

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:  

 

✅ How he landed his first major client (Dubai Economic Department) 

 

✅ The struggles of expanding to Singapore and why he refused to shut it down 

 

✅ His surprising take on personal branding (Hint: He doesn’t do it at all!) 

 

✅ The future of digital marketing, AI, and global expansion 

 

✅ How Boopin hit 9-figure revenues & continues to scale 

 

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from top entrepreneurs. 

 

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📲 Stay Connected with Beyond the Business Card Podcast:  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyond-the-business-card-podcast/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthebusinesscardpodcast/  

 

📲 Follow Justin McGuire:  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/  

  

📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:  

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/  

  

📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:  

Website: https://www.mcgtalent.io  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/  

  

📲 Connect with Shadi Abdulhadi:  

Website: https://www.boopin.com/en/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shadiabdulhadi/  


Beyond the Business Card with Adam Michael Toctan: Entrepreneurship, Growth & the MCG Talent Story 17 Feb 202501:05:10

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, Justin McGuire—entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment—sits down with Adam Toctan, co-founder of MCG Talent and the driving force behind its expansion into Asia. 

 

Adam grew up as an only child, watching his parents work tirelessly to build a better future. Their work ethic shaped his own, pushing him through private school, grammar school, and eventually into studying design. After landing a job with a product design company, he was let go just six months in—an unexpected turn that led him into recruitment. He quickly realised his love for sales and spent the next decade in creative recruitment before taking on his biggest challenge yet: launching MCG Talent’s Asia operations. 

 

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: 

 

• How growing up in a hardworking family shaped Adam’s work ethic. 

• The lessons he learned from being let go six months into his first job. 

• The real challenges of moving to Hong Kong and building a business from scratch. 

• His honest approach to recruitment and why it gets results. 

 

• How expanding into Asia saved MCG Talent during a major downturn in the Middle East. 

 

• The highs and lows of expat life, from rapid career growth to cultural adjustments. 

 

• Why most people don’t actually make the most of their time abroad—and how to avoid that mistake. 

 

This episode is packed with raw insights, candid lessons, and plenty of laughs from Justin and Adam’s years of working together. If you’ve ever thought about taking your career global, this is one you don’t want to miss. 

 

🔔 Subscribe to Beyond the Business Card for more inspiring stories from entrepreneurs and industry leaders. 

 

📲 Follow Justin McGuire:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire  

  

📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:  

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/  

  

📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/  

  

📲 Connect with Adam Toctan 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adammichaeltoctan/ 

Beyond the Business Card with Erika Doyle: Shaking Up the Non-Alc Industry10 Feb 202501:18:28

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire—entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment—sits down with Erika Doyle, founder and CEO of Drink Dry, the UAE’s first premium non-alcoholic drinks company. 

 

Erika’s path has been defined by taking risks and embracing change. From moving to the UK at 16 to balancing family life with ambition, she’s built a career on persistence and adaptability. With no prior experience in the beverage industry, she saw an opportunity and took the leap, turning Drink Dry into a market leader. In this episode, she shares the challenges of breaking into a new industry, the lessons she’s learned about resilience and risk, and what it really takes to scale a business while managing both personal and professional demands. 

 

 

 

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: 

 

• How Erika, at just 16, moved to the UK alone with nothing but determination—emailing a school and deciding she was going, no backup plan, no second thoughts. 

• The struggles of introducing non-alcoholic drinks to a market that wasn’t ready for them. 

• The sacrifices and turning points that tested her resilience as an entrepreneur and mother. 

 

• How Erika and her husband navigated the shifting dynamics of their personal and professional lives. 

 

• The bold move that turned a skeptical investor into a business partner—and why walking into that meeting unprepared might have been her greatest advantage. 

 

 

 

🔔 Subscribe to Beyond the Business Card for more inspiring stories and visionary ideas! 

 

 

📲 Follow Justin McGuire: 

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/ 

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire 

 

📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment: 

 Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com/ 

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/ 

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/ 

 

📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent: 

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/ 

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/ 

 

📲 Connect with Erika Doyle & Drink Dry: 

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-blazeviciute-doyle/ 

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinkdrystore/?hl=en 

 Website: https://drinkdrystore.com/ 

 

Beyond the Business Card with Mike Khouri: From Hustling to Tactical Success03 Feb 202501:01:33

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire—entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment—sits down with Mike Khouri, Founder & CEO of Tactical, a creative and innovation agency redefining digital marketing. Growing up between the UAE and Australia, Mike’s multicultural upbringing shaped his ability to adapt and take risks. But his journey wasn’t easy — after a career-threatening injury left him bedridden for months, he was made redundant and forced to start over. What began as a failed app idea turned into the launch of Tactical in 2013. Mike shares how he navigated setbacks, pivoted his business, and built a social-first agency working with some of the world’s biggest brands, while tackling the challenges of scaling, leadership, and resilience in a fast-changing industry. 💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: • How growing up between Australia and the UAE influenced Mike’s approach to business. • The bold pivots — some planned, some accidental — that turned Tactical into a global agency. • Why trial and error is the key to innovation in digital marketing. • Why losing his job and a devastating knee injury became unexpected turning points in his journey. • Why traditional advertising is outdated, and how social-first strategies are reshaping the industry. • The realities of scaling a company from 1 to 100+ employees, and the lessons Mike learned the hard way. • How his parents’ leap of faith in moving to the UAE influenced his own risk-taking approach in business. Whether you’re a business owner, marketer, or someone looking for inspiration, Mike’s insights on modern branding, leadership, and growth will challenge the way you think about success. 🔔 Subscribe to Beyond the Business Card for more inspiring stories and visionary ideas! 📲 Follow Justin McGuire: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire 📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment: Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/ 📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/ 📲 Connect with Mike Khouri & Tactical LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelkhouri/ Website: https://www.wearetactical.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearetactical/

Beyond the Business Card with Luca Allam: From Boardrooms to Breakthroughs27 Jan 202500:49:17

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire—entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment—sits down with Luca Allam, entrepreneur, talk show host, and former CEO of PHD MENA. Luca shares his remarkable journey from growing up between Nigeria and London, navigating nearly 20 years in marketing, and leading PHD MENA through a period of unprecedented growth, to stepping into entrepreneurship and launching his own consultancy and talk show, The Inside Track. Luca’s unique upbringing, passion for growth, and commitment to helping others find their voice is clear as he discusses the lessons he’s learned along the way, the risks he’s taken, and how he’s redefining success on his own terms. 💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: • The pivotal lessons Luca learned from his time at PHD MENA, where he helped grow the agency into one of the region’s leaders. • Why he left a high-profile CEO role to pursue a more entrepreneurial path and how he made the leap without a safety net. • The importance of building a winning culture, hiring for attitude, and fostering team growth. • Luca’s advice on how to overcome fear and communicate with confidence, whether in the boardroom or on stage. • His reflections on finding purpose and fulfillment through risk-taking, self-awareness, and trusting the process. Packed with actionable takeaways and inspiring reflections, this episode is a must-watch for professionals and entrepreneurs seeking to navigate their own career journeys with confidence and clarity. 🔔 Subscribe to Beyond the Business Card for more inspiring stories and actionable lessons! 📲 Follow Justin McGuire: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire 📲 Follow 7 Firgure Recruitment: Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/?originalSubdomain=ae Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/ 📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/ Website: https://www.mcgtalent.io 📲 Connect with Luca Allam: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luca.allam/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucaallam/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCrffFsC6gcVCuyMbs1yofUw

Beyond the Business Card with Akanksha Goel: From Scholarship to Social Media Stardom20 Jan 202501:04:34

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire—founder of MCG Talent and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment—dives into the inspiring journey of Akanksha Goel, the founder of Socialize, one of the Middle East’s leading social media agencies that was acquired by a global powerhouse, We Are Social. 

 

Akanksha shares her journey from leaving India at the age of 15 to study in Singapore on a prestigious scholarship, to becoming the youngest-ever editor-in-chief of a magazine, and eventually founding one of the region’s first social-only agencies. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and breaking barriers in a region just starting to embrace digital transformation. 

 

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

 

  • How Akanksha turned career setbacks into opportunities, including how a 30% pay cut led to the founding of Socialize. 

 

  • The origins of Socialize and its rise to prominence through bold campaigns and innovative ideas. 

 

  • Insights into the Bugles Crunch It campaign, which became the most-watched TikTok video in the region post-COVID. 

 

  • The challenges and triumphs of navigating entrepreneurship in Dubai during the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

 

  • How Socialize embraced TikTok’s potential early on, building a sound studio and leading the charge on creative campaigns. 

 

  • Akanksha’s deeply personal reflections on identity, self-awareness, and the journey to becoming a better leader. 

 

Akanksha’s candid reflections and actionable insights make this episode a must-watch for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, social media innovation, and personal growth. 

 

🔔 Subscribe to Beyond the Business Card for more inspiring stories and actionable lessons! 

 

 

📲 Follow Justin McGuire: 


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/ 


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire 


 

📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment: 


Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com 


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/ 


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/ 

 


📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent: 


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/ 


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/ 

 


📲 Connect with Akanksha Goel: 


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akankshagoel/ 


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akankshagoel/ 


Website: https://www.socializeagency.com/ 


 

 

He Shut Down His Own Real Estate Agency… Then Started Again on His Terms | Barney Crompton26 May 202501:27:08

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire sits down with Barney Crompton, one of Dubai’s most respected real estate figures, for a raw, honest look at the life behind the luxury homes.


From growing up in Portugal to building and later walking away from one of the UAE’s most recognisable brokerages, Barney opens up about the highs, the crashes, and the personal evolution that came in between.


This isn’t just about real estate. It’s about identity, reinvention, and the cost of doing business with integrity. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a real estate professional, or someone trying to figure out what “success” really means, this one hits hard.


💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:


• What growing up in a fiercely entrepreneurial family taught Barney


• The rise and fall of Crompton Partners, and why he walked away from his own company


• How Dubai’s volatile property market became his biggest teacher


• What imposter syndrome, burnout, and ego looked like behind closed doors


• Why he’s choosing “small and loyal” over “big and scalable” in business


• The personal principles that have kept him grounded through it all


This is one of the most unfiltered conversations we’ve had on the show, and a masterclass in self-awareness, humility, and starting over.



🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more stories that go beyond the business card.


📲 Connect with Barney Crompton:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barnaby.crompton/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barney-crompton-ba04b715/


📲 Follow Justin McGuire:     

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/     

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire           


📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:     

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com     

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/     

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/           


📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:     

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/     

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/

Beyond the Business Card with John Von Hofsten: Paving the Path from Hustle to Excellence 13 Jan 202501:04:39

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire—entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment—sits down with John Von Hofsten, founder and managing director of Home of Performance (HOP). HOP is a digital marketing agency redefining how businesses grow in the Middle East. Known for its commitment to performance and creativity, HOP has become a trusted name in the region’s digital marketing space, driving real success for its clients. 

 

John shares how a simple loan from his uncle became the spark that launched HOP, taking him from humble beginnings like owning a flower shop in Ajman to an agency that leverages strategy, execution, and data science to drive real results. From navigating the challenges of setting up right before COVID to expanding teams across Dubai, Riyadh, and Colombo, John reveals the lessons and strategies that shaped his resilient leadership style. He also dives into how his Swedish upbringing and the decision to keep pushing his limits helped him carve out a unique path in a competitive market. 

 

 

 

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: 

 

•⁠ Lessons from John’s trial-and-error beginnings, where every misstep became a stepping stone to build a thriving business. 

 

•⁠ The lessons from working in industries like F&B, event planning, and even running a flower business in Ajman. 

 

•⁠ Why setting goals and challenges is key to staying motivated and thriving as an entrepreneur. 

 

•⁠ How believing in yourself and finding the right kind of backing can spark your success – sometimes it only takes that one unexpected boost. 

 

•⁠ How to keep pushing your limits as your business grows and evolves. 

 

 

  

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a marketing professional, or simply curious about what it takes to build and lead in the digital space, John’s inspiring journey will motivate you to think bigger and act smarter. 

 

 

🔔 Subscribe to Beyond the Business Card for more inspiring stories and visionary ideas! 

 

 

 

📲 Follow Justin McGuire: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/ 

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire 

 

 

📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment: 

 

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com 

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/?originalSubdomain=ae 

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/ 

 

 

📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent: 

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/ 

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/mycompany/ 

 

 

📲 Connect with John Von Hofsten: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnvonhofsten/ 

 

Website: https://hop.rocks/about-us/ 

Beyond the Business Card with Tom Otton: From Late-Night Shawarmas to Building a Digital Empire 06 Jan 202501:12:36

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire—entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with Tom Otton, founder and CEO of Create, a leading media and advertising agency in the UAE. 

 

Tom shares how losing his job during the 2010 global financial crisis became the catalyst for launching Create. From starting as a one-person consultancy to building a 175-person agency competing with global giants, Tom reveals the lessons and strategies behind his success. He also dives into how his upbringing across Oman, South Africa, and the UK shaped his resilience, and how ultra-marathons taught him the clarity and focus needed to thrive in business.  Following the filming of this episode, Create was acquired by Stagwell, marking an exciting new chapter in the agency's journey.

 

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: 

 

  • ​⁠ How to turn career setbacks into opportunities for building something extraordinary. 

 

  • ​⁠ Why a global upbringing can teach adaptability and resilience that fuel entrepreneurial success. 

 

  • ​⁠ The key to creating long-term client relationships by delivering real value—not just focusing on profits. 

 

  • ​⁠ How endurance sports like ultra-marathons can transform your mindset and sharpen decision-making in business. 

 

  • ​⁠ The importance of managing risk and “protecting the downside” to navigate volatile markets successfully. 

 

  • ​⁠ Strategies for scaling a business from a one-person consultancy to a thriving agency with 175 team members. 

 

 

This episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring lessons for anyone looking to push boundaries and achieve greatness. 

 

🔔 Subscribe to Beyond the Business Card for more inspiring stories and visionary ideas! 

 

 

📲 Follow Justin McGuire: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire 

 

📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment: 

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/ 

 

📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/ 

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/mycompany/ 

 

📲 Connect with Tom Otton: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomotton/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tomotton/?hl=en 

Website: https://creategroup.me/ 

 

 

Beyond the Business Card with Richard Fitzgerald: From Unemployment in London to Lovin Dubai30 Dec 202401:00:37

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire—entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment—meets with Richard Fitzgerald, the driving force behind Augustus Media. Through platforms like Lovin Dubai, Lovin Saudi, and Smashi TV, Richard has transformed digital storytelling across the Middle East, capturing the attention of millions along the way.   💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:    • What it’s like to move from city to city and take the leap to start your own company.   •⁠ How to navigate the complexities of the Middle East’s media scene and turn challenges into opportunities.   •⁠ The behind-the-scenes story of how Lovin Egypt went from being challenged by other media companies to the place people trust for news.   •⁠ What it really takes to manage 22 offices across the region. • ⁠How to find some sense of work-life balance when you’re running a business that never stops. If you’re curious about making bold moves, growing something from nothing, and thriving in a place as dynamic as the Middle East, this one’s for you.   🔔 Subscribe to Beyond the Business Card for more inspiring stories and visionary ideas!          📲 Follow Justin McGuire:    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/     LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire       📲 Follow 7 Firgure Recruitment:    Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com     LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/?originalSubdomain=ae     Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/       📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/     LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/mycompany/       📲 Connect with Richard Fitzgerald:    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/fitzyrichard   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitzyrichard/?hl=en

Beyond the Business Card with Raja Abuljebain: From Late Nights to Fresh Pressed Success23 Dec 202400:59:09

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire—entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment—sits down with Raja Abuljebain, CEO and founder of Essentially, a health and wellness brand that has transformed how people approach clean living. Raja shares how he made bold decisions and took major risks to acquire and grow his brand, transforming Essentially into a leading wellness company, and proving that success as an expat in the UAE is achievable.


💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:


• ⁠The lessons behind acquiring and growing a health and wellness brand.


•⁠ Practical networking tips to help you build meaningful connections and grow your career.


•⁠ ⁠How leveraging personal passions, like Polo, can unlock business opportunities.


•⁠ The surprising ways COVID-19 became an opportunity for growth.



Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, an established leader, or someone curious about building a business from the ground up, Raja’s remarkable story will inspire you to take bold risks and embrace opportunities.


🔔 Subscribe to Beyond the Business Card for more inspiring stories and visionary ideas!


📲 Follow Justin McGuire:


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire


📲 Follow 7 Firgure Recruitment:


Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/?originalSubdomain=ae


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/


📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/mycompany/


📲 Connect with Raja Abuljebain:


LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raja-w-abuljebain-bsce-17235aa/


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/essentiallyuae/?hl=en


Website: https://essentially.ae

Beyond the Business Card: A Deep Dive with Leopold Ajami15 Dec 202400:55:32

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire—entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent (a renowned MENA and APAC recruitment agency), and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment (a coaching program for recruitment entrepreneurs)—sits down with Leopold Ajami, founder of the Novel Philosophy Academy, public speaker, and ethical persuasion coach. They discuss how adopting a philosophical mindset can improve decision-making, the transformative role of emotional intelligence in leadership, and strategies for building resilience and growth as an entrepreneur.


💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:


•⁠  ⁠The intriguing link between philosophy and advertising.


•⁠  ⁠How to enhance creativity, decision-making, and leadership through deep thinking.


•⁠  ⁠Practical strategies for improving public speaking and communication skills.


•⁠  ⁠The importance of being a lifelong student, embracing continuous learning, and the lessons Leopold gains from the world—and even from his daughter.



Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or simply someone seeking fresh perspectives, Leopold’s wisdom will inspire you to think differently and act intentionally.


🔔 Follow Beyond the Business Card and discover more inspiring guests and visionary ideas!


📲 Follow Justin McGuire:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire


📲 Follow 7 Firgure Recruitment:

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/?originalSubdomain=ae

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/

📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/mycompany/

📲 Connect with Leopold Ajami:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leopoldajami/


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leopoldajami/?hl=en


Website: https://learn.novelphilosophy.academy

He Left Banking… Then Built a Global Brand Havas Had to Buy | Sachinn Laala19 May 202501:44:42

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with Sachinn Laala, founder and CEO of Liquid Havas, one of the Middle East’s leading commerce marketing agencies, recently acquired by global advertising giant Havas.


Sachinn shares his extraordinary journey from growing up in a small town in India, stepping into the family business at the age of 12, and eventually building an independent agency in Dubai that scaled to 90+ people and caught the attention of a global network. With humility and sharp business insight, Sachinn opens up about his entrepreneurial roots, his bold career pivots, and the challenges of building a niche business in a highly competitive industry.


💡 In this episode, you’ll discover:


• Why leaving his father’s retail business to work in banking was his first act of rebellion

• How a 400 AED car instalment nearly consumed his entire salary when he moved to Dubai

• The hidden value of starting in customer service and how it shaped his leadership style

• How a forgotten corner of advertising, commerce marketing, became the foundation of Liquid’s success

• What it really takes to get acquired by a global agency

• Why grit, discomfort, and embracing chaos were crucial to his journey

• The role of early failures, culture, and partnership in building a scalable agency model.


It’s a raw and inspiring look at what it means to build something real in a region known for flash. No shortcuts. No façade. Just the true story behind the growth of a homegrown agency and the founder who made it happen.


🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more stories that go beyond the business card.


📲 Follow Justin McGuire:    

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/    

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire         


📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:    

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com    

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/    

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/         


📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:    

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/    

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/         


📲 Connect with Sachinn Laala:    

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sachinn-j-laala-01303a5/

Website: https://www.liquidhavas.com/

How a £50 PDF Sparked a Multi-Million Dollar Trading Education Business | William Brown12 May 202501:28:28

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with William Brown, a creative turned serial entrepreneur who built and exited a $16.4M e learning business in the trading education space.


William shares his remarkable journey from skateboarding and graffiti in Northern England to becoming a global DJ, and eventually launching a wildly successful info product empire.


Through raw stories and honest reflection, he unpacks how his creative roots, painful setbacks, and relentless hustle shaped the business mindset he has today.


From artistic rebellion to boardroom deals, this conversation is a deep dive into identity, drive, and building something from nothing.

 

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:


• How William turned skateboarding, graffiti, and music into a foundation for business success.


• The power of self-education and how one late-night documentary changed his life.

 

• His experience hustling outside nightclubs to hand-deliver vinyls to DJs, and what it taught him about resilience.

 

• Why he believes masterminds were the single biggest accelerator in his growth.

 

• The mental crash after selling his company and how he found new purpose in helping others build info businesses.

 

• Why success didn’t fill the emotional void, and how pain and the desire to be seen fueled his early ambition.

 

It’s a gritty, inspiring, and brutally honest episode about what it takes to win, creatively, financially, and mentally.

 

🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more stories that go beyond the business card. 📲 Follow Justin McGuire:    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire        📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:    Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/     

📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/   


📲 Connect with William Brown:    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-brown-01a310182/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willia_mbrown/?hl=en Website: https://buildgrowandexit.com/

How Nikita Sachdev Built a $10M Web3 Business in Just 2 Years05 May 202501:41:08

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent and creator of 7 Figure Recruitment, sits down with Nikita Sachdev, founder and CEO of Luna Media Corporation and its subsidiary, a global agency championing Web3, emerging tech, and the future of digital media.


Nikita walks us through her bold and unconventional journey – from growing up between Texas, Singapore, and Dubai, to launching her modelling career by chance, building a talent agency in her 20s, and then pivoting to start one of the most recognised PR firms in the blockchain space. With raw honesty and entrepreneurial insight, Nikita shares her behind-the scenes struggles, early wins, crypto learning curve, and how resilience, risk, and personal branding all played key roles in scaling her multi-million-dollar media empire.

 

💡 In this episode, you’ll discover:

 

• How Nikita turned a hair modelling gig into a 10-year commercial career – and used the earnings to fund her future.


• The story of how she accidentally became an early Bitcoin investor.


• Why she left the fashion world to build a business empire in crypto and emerging tech.


• How Luna PR grew from her mother’s kitchen table to a 100-person company doing $10M in revenue.


• The role her family, especially her mother, played in shaping her mindset and work ethic.


• Lessons from navigating volatility, both in crypto and the Middle East.


• Her biggest regrets, best advice, and what she would do differently if she started again today.

 

It’s a masterclass in grit, timing, vision, and the power of personal branding, and a reminder that success isn’t always linear, but it’s always worth it.


🎧Listen now and subscribe for more stories that go beyond the business card.

 

📲 Follow Justin McGuire:   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire   

   

📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:   

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/   

   

📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:   

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/   

   

📲 Connect with Nikita Sachdev:   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikitasachdev/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikitasachdev5/

Website: https://www.lunamediacorp.com/


From Burnout to a $17M Fitness Empire: The Wild Rise of Charlie Johnson28 Apr 202501:32:25

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with Charlie Johnson, a fitness entrepreneur, podcast host, and the founder of Charlie Johnson Fitness and 7-Figure Scaling Systems.


Charlie shares his incredible journey from working as a real estate agent in the UK to becoming one of the most successful online fitness entrepreneurs in the world. With raw honesty and energy, he opens up about the mindset shifts, personal sacrifices, and painful lessons that shaped his rise – from building a global fitness coaching business to launching a thriving B2B brand helping coaches scale to seven figures.


From burnout to breakthrough, Charlie offers a rare look into what it truly takes to build a high-performance life and business.💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: • How Charlie quit his real estate job and built a multi-million-dollar business from his shed.• Why pain, not motivation, is often the greatest driver of success.• His early struggles with anxiety, imposter syndrome, and insecurity, and how he pushed through.• Behind the scenes of managing global remote teams, running paid ads, and building a personal brand.• Why freedom, not just money, became his ultimate goal, and how he’s engineering life on his own terms.• The lessons he’s now applying as he prepares for fatherhood, and why legacy matters more than ever.It’s a bold, unfiltered conversation about ambition, risk, and the uncomfortable truths behind fast growth, and why sometimes, the best thing you can do is “run headfirst through walls.”🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more stories that go beyond the business card.📲 Follow Justin McGuire:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire   📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:  Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/   📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/   📲 Connect with Charlie Johnson:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-johnson-fitness/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charliejohnsonfitness/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh_TVSETtwjxuAvn-AOqifQ

Beyond the Business Card with Nic Cartwright: The Man Behind the Region’s OCR Revolution21 Apr 202501:35:38

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with Nic Cartwright, the founder of CAB Sports and the visionary behind Arabian Warrior, the Middle East’s first homegrown obstacle course racing brand.


Nic walks us through his unconventional journey – from sports school and accountancy, to running top-tier rugby clubs, launching sports programs in Oman, and eventually building a sports startup from scratch in Dubai. With honesty and clarity, Nic shares the behind-the-scenes of startup life, navigating government relationships, balancing risk, and building a business rooted in passion.

 

💡 In this episode, you’ll discover:


· How Nic went from accountant to CEO of the London Broncos.


· The role his entrepreneurial mum played in shaping his mindset.


· Why he left a stable career to follow his passion for sport.


· Behind the scenes of building sports organisations across the UK and Middle East.


· The vision behind Arabian Warrior and growing OCR in the region.


It’s an honest look at what it takes to build something meaningful, the risks involved, and why passion often beats the “safe” path.



🎧Listen now and subscribe for more inspiring stories!

 

📲Follow Justin McGuire:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire  

  

📲Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:  

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/  

  

📲Stay Connected with MCG Talent:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/  

  

📲Connect with Nic Cartwright:  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niccartwright/

Website: https://cab-sports.com/

Beyond the Business Card with Amara Javed: From No Work and No Income to Running an 18-Person Agency14 Apr 202501:13:07

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with Amara Javed, founder and managing director of Seamlify – one of Dubai’s fastest-rising boutique social media agencies. Amara opens up about her journey, from growing up between the U.S. and Pakistan, navigating life post-9/11, to building her agency from scratch during COVID, with no funding and zero clients. 💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: • How she boldly landed her first major client through a cold DM. • The grind of bootstrapping a social media agency in a post-pandemic world. • The lessons she learned from toxic work environments, and how she built the opposite. • What it’s really like managing cash flow, salaries, and growth in a boutique business. • Her vision for Seamlify’s future and why she’s still in it every single day. It’s refreshingly honest, deeply relatable, and packed with valuable lessons for founders, creatives, and anyone building something of their own. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more inspiring stories! 📲 Follow Justin McGuire:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire   📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:  Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/   📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/   📲 Connect with Amara Javed:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amara-javed/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amara.at.seamlify/ Website: https://www.seamlify.com/

Beyond the Business Card with Sophie Ghavidel: From Fish Breakfasts to Ferrari Clients08 Apr 202501:00:33

In this episode of Beyond the Business Card, host Justin McGuire, entrepreneur, founder of MCG Talent, and creator of 7-Figure Recruitment, sits down with powerhouse entrepreneur Sophie Ghavidel, the founder of one of the region’s most successful independent communications agencies, Toh PR. 

 

Sophie opens up about her journey — from a childhood of competitive scholarship exams (and fishy breakfasts!) to setting up shop in Dubai during the financial crisis with nothing but instinct and grit. 

 

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:  

  • How she landed her first major client (Zuma) with no team. 
  • The challenges and hustle behind building a business in a volatile market. 


  • The emotional and personal sacrifices behind the success. 


  • How she orchestrated a successful exit post Toh PR’s acquisition by PRCO. 


  • Her view on real estate, reinvention, and what’s next. 

 

It’s honest, raw, and full of gems for anyone in business, PR, or simply navigating their own career path. 


🔔 Subscribe to Beyond the Business Card for more inspiring stories and visionary ideas!  

  

📲 Follow Justin McGuire:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jussiemcg/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jumcguire  

  

📲 Follow 7-Figure Recruitment:  

Website: https://7figurerecruitment.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/7-figure-recruitment-scaling-systems/?originalSubdomain=ae  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7figuresrec/  

  

📲 Stay Connected with MCG Talent:  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcg_talent/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcgtalent/mycompany/  

  

📲 Connect with Sophie Ghavidel:  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-toh-03788418/ 


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