Explore every episode of the podcast EOS for a Better Business, Better Life
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rajesh Nagjee: The CEO You Become Determines the Business You Build | 01 juin 2026 | 00:37:30 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor sits down with Rajesh Nagjee to explore the connection between the business you build and the life you ultimately create.
Rajesh, founder of the CEO Business Growth Programme and creator of the CEO Freedom Operating System, shares his remarkable journey from working in his family business to building a 450-bed trauma care hospital that transformed healthcare outcomes in his region. Along the way, he discovered that business success is not simply about strategy, systems, or execution. It is about aligning the inner game and outer game of leadership.
Throughout the conversation, Rajesh explains that while frameworks such as EOS and Rockefeller Habits can produce exceptional business results, sustainable success requires leaders to develop the mindset, self-awareness, and emotional resilience needed to drive those systems effectively. Without this inner work, many founders achieve external success while sacrificing personal fulfilment, relationships, and wellbeing.
Drawing on lessons from healthcare, entrepreneurship, and decades of coaching business owners, Rajesh highlights the importance of time-criticality, intentional leadership, and creating businesses that are aligned with personal values. He shares how fear, doubt, anxiety, and limiting beliefs can quietly undermine performance, even when a business appears successful on the surface.
The discussion also explores the difference between the fruits of success and the experience of success. Rajesh challenges founders to think beyond revenue, growth, and achievement, and consider whether the business they build is actually creating the life they want to live.
Rajesh introduces the CEO Freedom Operating System, a framework designed to help entrepreneurs align personal purpose with business outcomes, creating both commercial success and personal fulfilment. He explains how focusing on the inner game allows leaders to make better decisions, build stronger teams, and create lasting impact.
This episode is a powerful reminder that the business you build should not come at the expense of your relationships, health, or happiness. Instead, it should become a vehicle for creating freedom, fulfilment, and a meaningful legacy both inside and outside the business.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner āŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ GUESTāS DETAILS: āŗ Rajesh Nagjee ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajeshnagjee/ āŗ Website: LevelUp Management Consultancy: https://www.levelupmentor.ae
Episode 274 Chapters:āÆāÆ
00:00 ā Introduction 00:37 ā Purpose of the Podcast 02:47 ā Rajesh Najeeās Background and Early Career 06:05 ā Lessons from Running a Hospital 14:31 ā The Inner Game of Business 18:07 ā Case Study: American Express Saudi Arabia 23:13 ā Identifying Stuck Founders 25:27 ā The CEO Freedom Operating System 28:05 ā Advice for Founders and CEOs 28:50 ā Conclusion and Contact Information | |||
| How to Get Up the Pointy End with Greg Lipschitz | 30 mai 2026 | 00:31:09 | |
Greg Lipschitz is founder & CEO of Summit Internet, a telecommunications company that owns and manages their national network. Through innovation & customer-oriented service, theyāre challenging the way their competitors do business - as a result, Summit Internet is one of Australiaās fastest growing internet providers.Ā Greg has been a business owner for over 22 years and he is most proud of growing & maintaining a high performing team. He loves seeing his team succeed & completely trusts them, knowing that he can step out of the business and they will continue to strive & achieve amazing things.Ā Earlier this year, he actually had to take 6 weeks off due to a broken collarbone & didn't have to do a thing. He could & did walk away knowing full well that everything would run exactly as it should.Ā In this episode, Greg shares insider tips & tricks to points hacking ā being smart about where & how you spend your money to get some extra perks.Ā āWe all work so damn hard as business owners and we sometimes forget about the things that we can take out of the business that might not be financial. It might just be being able to travel in style.āĀ So one of the things heās focused on over the last 22 years is how he can points hack through business and get that extra value & additional benefits to enjoy life even more. And one of these benefits can be travelling up at the pointy end of the plane! He shares the differences between points and status & how you can leverage both to your advantage. Not only that, you can use these points to reward amazing staff ā for example, picking up their flight costs when they go on holiday.Ā Listen to the full episode to find out how you can change your spending habits to get you the biggest rewards. It may be something as simple as changing where you put petrol in your car!Ā | |||
| Adam Harris: AI & Its Implications For Companies Running In EOS | 25 mai 2026 | 00:52:25 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor and Adam Harris explore AI & its implication for businesses, leadership teams, and the future of EOS. The conversation dives into how AI is rapidly moving from being a āfuture issueā to something businesses must actively integrate into their daily operations. Debra and Adam discuss the growing role AI can play in productivity, accountability, communication, and leadership support, while also acknowledging the risks and limitations that come with it. Debra shares her personal experiences using tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, explaining how AI can dramatically improve efficiency when used properly. At the same time, she highlights the importance of human oversight, noting that AI still lacks the empathy, emotional intelligence, and human connection required for many leadership and people-focused roles. Throughout the episode, Debra and Adam explore whether AI could ever replace EOS implementers, leadership teams, or integrators. While they believe AI will continue transforming workflows and automating repetitive tasks, they argue that trust, empathy, coaching, and difficult conversations still require human interaction. The discussion also touches on the fears many employees and leaders have around AI replacing jobs. Debra emphasizes that AI should be viewed as a tool to augment people, not remove them, freeing teams from repetitive work so they can focus on higher-value thinking, creativity, and leadership. Adam and Debra also discuss the importance of businesses integrating AI intentionally, rather than simply chasing trends. They highlight the need for training, communication, experimentation, and involving the whole organization in the AI journey to avoid resistance and confusion. This episode is a thought-provoking conversation about the future of work, leadership, and EOS, and how businesses can thoughtfully integrate AI in a way that improves efficiency while still protecting the human connection that great businesses are built on.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner āŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ GUESTāS DETAILS: āŗ Adam Harris ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adam-harris-eos/ āŗ Website ā EOS Worldwide: https://www.eosworldwide.com/adam-harris
Episode 273 Chapters:āÆāÆ
00:00 ā Introduction to AI and EOS Implementation 03:49 ā Debraās AI Tools and Initial Insights 08:10 ā Human Connection and AIās Limitations 09:24 ā AIās Role in EOS Implementation 22:00 ā Challenges and Opportunities with AI 31:26 ā AIās Impact on Business Culture and People 34:57 ā Future of AI in Business 39:58 ā Conclusion and Next Steps | |||
| If Itās Not Working In the Bedroomā¦ with Adam Harris | 23 mai 2026 | 00:34:27 | |
Adam Harris is Frank and Fearless. As a leadership coach, consultant and facilitator, he applies this approach in all areas of his professional and personal life. In this episode, he discusses why so many great companies miss out on their potentialĀ and shares the important questions all business owners must ask themselves. He stresses the importance of havingĀ difficult conversationsĀ -Ā avoiding them is a disservice to everyone involved. Despite the discomfort, disagreement and uncertainty then creates opportunity. His mission is to create the space to have the right conversations, at the right time, with the right people.Ā Having worked with 25 businesses to implement EOS, heĀ alsoĀ tells us his favouriteĀ EOS tools and how theyāve transformed his clients. Find out how leaning into being frank and fearless has takenĀ him to incredibleĀ and challenging new heights,Ā both figuratively and literally! | |||
| Peter Coppinger & Philipp Maucher: From Chaos to Clarity Using EOS and AI Together | 18 mai 2026 | 00:47:11 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor explores the power of EOS and AI Together with guests Peter and Philipp from Success.co. After scaling a software company to more than $40 million, Peter and Philipp share how discovering EOS completely changed the way they operated their business. Before EOS, their company was growing rapidly but felt chaotic, with leadership spending more time reacting than creating clarity and alignment. Everything shifted when they implemented EOS properly. The structure, accountability, and discipline helped them organize the business, improve communication, and scale far more effectively. But along the way, they became frustrated with the existing EOS software options, finding them clunky, outdated, and lacking the integrations modern businesses needed. That frustration led them to build Success.co, an EOS-focused platform designed to combine the simplicity and purity of EOS with the power of modern technology and AI. Throughout the conversation, Peter and Philipp discuss the importance of staying true to EOS principles while using AI to enhance execution, visibility, and accountability. They explain how their software includes features like real-time updates, mobile accessibility, AI-generated insights, and automation to help leadership teams make better decisions faster. Debra, Peter, and Philipp also explore the future of AI in business, discussing how AI can augment leadership thinking, automate repetitive tasks, improve meetings, and provide deeper operational insights. Rather than replacing people, they believe AI becomes a powerful tool for helping teams work smarter and stay aligned. The episode also highlights the importance of having an EOS implementer, trusting the EOS process fully, and separating facilitation from participation so leadership teams can focus on solving real issues instead of managing meetings. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs interested in the future of business operations, leadership alignment, and how combining EOS and AI together can create more efficient, scalable, and accountable businesses. CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner āŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ GUESTāS DETAILS: āŗ Philipp Maucher ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipp-maucher-42747798/ āŗ Website ā Success.co: https://www.success.co/ āŗ Peter Coppinger ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petercoppinger/ āŗ Website ā Success.co: https://www.success.co/ Episode 272 Chapters:āÆāÆ 00:00 ā Introduction 00:39 ā Introduction and Overview of AI and EOS 02:21 ā Peterās Journey and Initial Challenges 03:47 ā Transition to Success.co and Philipās Role 07:34 ā Implementing EOS and the Role of an Implementer 10:52 ā Challenges with Existing EOS Software 11:17 ā Developing the Success.co Software 19:33 ā Benefits of Using EOS Software 32:52 ā AI and the Future of EOS Software 40:38 ā Final Thoughts and Tips for Implementing EOS | |||
| Failure Isn't a Person with CocoVinny Zaldivar | 16 mai 2026 | 00:29:07 | |
You will know CocoVinny from Shark Tank and The Profit - his passion for his company Coco Taps is contagious! CocoVinny Zaldivar has been an entrepreneur since 16 years old. Through his experiences, he narrowed down his three non-negotiables. Whatever he did next needed to be good for people, good for the planet, and it had to be fun. With Coco Taps he found his life-long passion, building something of value that continues to create value. In this episode, he shares his ups and downs through the pandemic and how he's never had an exit strategy. Despite the uncertainty and losing several million dollars revenue in the lockdown, CocoVinny used this time to focus on what was really important for the future of his business and stepped on the gas. He went full steam ahead on the development of a new machine, reached out to potential investors and got creative with marketing strategies. He shares that EOS helped Coco Taps respond to COVID with agility. "It's probably one of the best things that happened to us during COVID. We did everything remote, but it was still helpful to go through these processes and still learn how to pivot and learn how to adapt." Fortunately, he was able to keep all his staff. The lockdown helped his team focus and re-focus. With all their future planning, they were able to bring ideas forward and use this difficult time as an opportunity to innovate. He also shares that the way Coco Taps is run is so tied to their core values that they don't have to fire people, they just self-select out if they're not in alignment. Listen to the full episode to find out how CocoVinny approaches business, life and the beautiful future of Coco Taps!Ā | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: Your Best Year Might Be the Start of Your Worst | 11 mai 2026 | 00:13:54 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor explores why having your best year in business can actually become one of the most dangerous moments for a leadership team.Ā Ā Drawing on both her experience working with entrepreneurs and the research from Jim Collins, Debra explains how success often creates complacency, weakens discipline, and slowly introduces the behaviours that eventually lead businesses into decline.Ā Ā She walks through the five stages that many businesses experience after a major period of success. From arrogance built on past wins, to chasing growth without focus, explaining away problems, searching for a saviour, and eventually giving up quietly, Debra highlights how decline is rarely sudden. Instead, it happens gradually when leadership teams stop asking hard questions and start avoiding uncomfortable truths.Ā Ā Throughout the episode, Debra shares why the businesses that continue scaling successfully are the ones that stay humble, disciplined, and curious, even after major wins. She explains how leadership teams often begin to lose traction when meetings become too polite, scorecards are ignored, and difficult conversations stop happening.Ā Ā Debra also discusses the dangers of relying on āsaviour hiresā to fix deeper systemic issues, and why true growth comes from maintaining strong leadership discipline, accountability, and honest communication across the business.Ā Ā This episode is a powerful reminder that success should never reduce focus or discipline. The businesses that continue to grow after their best year are the ones willing to stay honest, challenge themselves, and keep evolving long after the celebrations are over.Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 271 Chapters:āÆāÆ Ā | |||
| Creating a Human Culture with Mel Rowsell | 09 mai 2026 | 00:35:11 | |
Mel Rowsell is a leadership coach & facilitator, as well as co-founder of Vend, a tech startup with rapid growth. Affectionately known as camp mother, she managed People & Culture as Vend grew from 0 to 250 employees. Ā In this episode, Mel discusses the constant feeling of imposter syndrome while wearing the many, many hats founders & entrepreneurs are required to wear.Ā After leaving day-to-day operations to start her coaching practice, she was surprised at her own resilience and resourcefulness. She shares how she overcame imposter syndrome and the ups & downs of a founder's journey. An expert at human connection in the workplace, she also sharesĀ tried and true advice on creating a curious & empathetic workplace culture. Find out if you're inadvertently rewarding behaviour that's harming your company and how to lead in the Fourth Imagination Age. | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: Why Leadership Teams Avoid the Very Conversations That Would Unlock Growth | 04 mai 2026 | 00:17:59 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor tackles one of the biggest barriers to scaling: the conversations leadership teams avoid that could unlock growth.Ā Ā Debra exposes the āpolite meeting trap,ā where teams stay comfortable, avoid conflict, and leave meetings with no real decisions or progress. While it may feel safe, this behaviour quietly stalls growth and erodes accountability. She makes it clear that politeness does not build great businesses, effectiveness does.Ā Ā The episode dives into why leaders avoid hard conversations in the first place. Fear of conflict, protecting relationships, and power dynamics all play a role. When the most senior leader avoids tough topics, the entire team follows, leading to side conversations, misalignment, and slow execution.Ā Ā Debra explains how EOS provides the structure needed to make these conversations easier and more productive. With clear roles, accountability, and objective data, teams can separate people from problems and focus on solving real issues without emotion taking over.Ā Ā She also shares practical strategies to shift from avoidance to action, including eliminating sidebar conversations, bringing issues into the room, and regularly assessing whether team members are aligned with core values and truly fit their roles.Ā If your leadership team feels stuck, overly polite, or avoids the real issues, this episode is a direct call to step up, have the conversations that matter, and create the clarity needed to grow.Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 270 Chapters:āÆāÆ Ā | |||
| EOS Guilt-Free Weekends with Justine Parsons | 02 mai 2026 | 00:28:49 | |
The last in our series for Season 2 & a special for Australia & New Zealand, who are in lockdown. Justine is the Visionary / Founder at Your Virtual Assistant. The company has around 30 virtual assistants & Virtual Business Managers, based all around New Zealand. She came across EOS a few years ago & tried to self-implement. I'll let her tell you why it didn't work, however, she came to me back in March 2020, just before the lockdown in New Zealand hit.Ā We were excited that I could help her to implement it into her business. However, once lockdown was announced, she came to me & said she wanted to pause. We had a Ā discussion and fortunately, she decided that there probably wasn't a better time to be starting - given all the uncertainty that comes with a global pandemic. 16 months later & Justine & her new Leadership team have smashed all their goals & are continuing to achieve their rocks each quarter. In a time when many businesses are struggling, the Your VA Leadership Team has Clarity, they have Simplified their business & they are achieving their Vision. And most importantly, Justine is back doing what she loves & takes her weekends off, without feeling even a little bit guilty. If you'd like to understand how she did this, then take a listen. | |||
| Amanda Barkey: Using EOS vs Running on EOS | 27 avr. 2026 | 00:50:12 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor sits down with Amanda Barkey to explore the difference between using EOS vs running a business on EOS, and why that distinction changes everything.Ā Ā Amanda shares her journey from self-implementing EOS in her Soccer Shots franchise business to becoming a certified EOS implementer. Starting with limited support and plenty of early struggles, she and her husband turned their business around by applying EOS tools and disciplines, eventually scaling and successfully selling multiple franchises.Ā Ā A key insight from Amanda is that simply using EOS tools is not enough. Real transformation happens when you fully commit to running your business on EOS with consistency, discipline, and accountability. She highlights how tools like the Level 10 Meeting, People Analyzer, and clear compartmentalisation improved communication, strengthened team health, and drove results.Ā Ā The conversation also dives into the importance of the visionary and integrator relationship. Amanda credits having a strong integrator as a major factor in their success, helping maintain structure and execution while the visionary focused on growth and direction.Ā Ā Beyond business, Amanda shares how she applies EOS principles in her family life, using tools like a family VTO and core values to create alignment and reduce conflict. She also discusses her nonprofit work in Cameroon, funded by her business success, demonstrating how EOS can support not just better businesses, but better lives.Ā Ā If you are currently āusingā EOS but not seeing full results, this episode will challenge you to step up into truly running your business on EOS.Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 269 Chapters:āÆāÆ Ā | |||
| Growth Junkies Unite with Emily Ransone | 25 avr. 2026 | 00:28:37 | |
Emily is the owner of SideMark, which she started 7 years ago. It is a highly successful company & she puts its success down to implementing EOS (The Entrepreneurial Operating System) into the business. Apart from the successful business, Emily is living her dream career life which she has crafted intentionally over time. She has just recently written a. book called Growth Junkies Unite ā A Simple Guide to Invigorate your Journey. In this episode, she shares with us what being a growth junkie really is & how she has created a multi-faceted career, as co-owner of the business, a Professional EOS Coach & Business Coach, a published Author & a peer-group facilitator, as well as enjoying a full life outside of business. After implementing EOS to help them run their business 5 years ago and seeing tremendous success, Emily launched her EOS coaching practice to help other entrepreneurs and leadership teams get more of what they want from their business. She describes herself as the poster girl for EOS as she has run a business without EOS & with EOS. And she wishes she had found it earlier. "When I first got into entrepreneurship, I didn't know what I was doing. It's not like I went to school and learn how to run a business. And at the time, I found this business was in need of a turnaround situation, it was a $13 million office furniture dealership down in the southwest part of the United States. And it was just so much fun to dig into. And yet I could have done it better now that I know what I know, it would have been easier and faster. And so when I moved into the opportunity to buy in as third owner of a $15 million office furniture dealership, my two partners and I quickly realized that we really wanted to come together and figure out our vision for where we wanted to take the company. And so luckily, at that time, I was a part of a peer group. And in that group, I heard about EOS, which is the entrepreneurial operating system. It's a way of operating and running a business more effectively and efficiently so that you can get more out of the business and actually enjoy the business more." Emily shares her journey to bring EOS into the business & how it changed not only the business but her life too. | |||
| Adam Harris: Why Businesses Get Stuck (and What Founders Can Do About It with EOS) - Part 2 | 20 avr. 2026 | 00:47:29 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor and Adam Harris go deeper into what it really takes to get a business unstuck, moving beyond surface-level fixes to uncover the root causes holding companies back.They explore why so many businesses face the same issues again and again, and why most teams jump to solutions too quickly without properly identifying the real problem. Using tools like the EOS Issue Solving Track (IDS) and simple but powerful W questions (Who, What, When, Where, Why), they explain how to dig deeper and solve issues properly the first time.A major theme in this conversation is clarity. Without it, teams become reactive, communication breaks down, and founders feel increasingly overwhelmed as the business grows. Debra and Adam highlight how lack of clarity around roles, expectations, and outcomes leads directly to stagnation.They also discuss the importance of accountability, structured meetings, and consistent practice. High-performing teams donāt just talk about issues, they build the muscle to solve them through repetition, trust, and open, honest conversations.The episode also tackles tough topics like having the wrong people in key roles, unproductive meetings, and early warning signs that a business is losing traction. Founders are encouraged to step back, take a clarity break, and seek external support such as coaches, mentors, or peer groups to gain perspective and momentum.If your business feels stuck in cycles of the same problems, this episode provides practical tools and mindset shifts to help you regain clarity, fix root causes, and move forward with confidence. CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business OwnerāŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.auĀ āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/Ā ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ GUESTāS DETAILS:Ā Ā āŗ Adam Harris ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adam-harris-eos/Ā āŗ Website ā EOS Worldwide: https://www.eosworldwide.com/adam-harris Episode 268 Chapters:āÆāÆ 00:00 ā Introduction 00:36 ā Why Businesses Get Stuck: Introduction and Initial ThoughtsĀ 02:48 ā Exploring the Root Causes of Repeated IssuesĀ 13:35 ā The Importance of Teamwork and PracticeĀ 18:47 ā Identifying the Wrong People in Key RolesĀ 23:47 ā Unproductive Meetings in Growing CompaniesĀ 35:58 ā Communication Breakdown and Reactive vs Proactive BehaviourĀ 38:53 ā Overwhelm Among Founders and Lack of ClarityĀ 41:27 ā Early Warning Signs of Businesses Losing TractionĀ 41:39 ā The Role of Lack of Clarity in Business StagnationĀ 44:28 ā First Steps for Founders to Take When Recognising Symptoms | |||
| It's Not About the Money... But It Is! with Sam Stubbs | 18 avr. 2026 | 00:33:42 | |
Sam Stubbs is the founder of the nonprofit KiwiSaver fund Simplicity. A reformed investment banker and stockbroker his career also spans politics, philosophy and technology. His mission is to make the finance industry a force for good as a source of profit which he thinks can be achieved by companies embracing long-term thinking, sustainability and full diversity. He set up Simplicity with the aim to disrupt the KiwiSaver model, in the midst of a midlife crisis. It was never about the money for him but the money he can create for other people! What is Simplicity and what is its mission and vision?ā We're a nonprofit fund manager. If you're overseas you might have heard of Vanguardā¦ the vanguard of New Zealandā¦ wouldn't be too far wrong. Our main aim is to give people dignity in retirement and how we do that is we give them choices. People who have choices in life have dignity. We run as a nonprofit fund manager, which charges the lowest fees and making people richer. Simplicity is a charity, a social enterprise, a nonprofit, a whole lot of things! We give 15% of the fees we do earn to charity. We've been running for almost five years now and we manage about $3 billion on behalf of over 60,000 members, in total we're giving away about $100,000 a month to charity, and making extremely good returns.ā In this podcast, Sam talks about the journey from Westie to Corporate & back to fighting for the people. Simplicity was an idea developed by four guys at a pub with a piece of paper. Sam shares how he got the right people into the business & some of the challenges along the way. Why the title of the Podcast? Sam shares that he didn't start Kiwisver to make money - rather help other people have dignity in retirement, however, he also shares how cash flow really is king in building a business & how you should treat every last dollar as if it were your own. | |||
| Adam Harris: Getting Your Business Unstuck Starts with You and EOS | 13 avr. 2026 | 00:49:13 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor and Adam Harris dive into what it really takes to get a business unstuck and moving forward again with EOS. Ā They explore the hidden forces that cause businesses to stall, particularly fear and complacency. Fear often shows up as indecision or hesitation, while complacency creeps in when things are going well and leaders stop pushing for growth. Together, these can quietly bring momentum to a halt. Ā A key theme in the conversation is how founders themselves can become the bottleneck. Without self-awareness and clear accountability, visionaries can drift back into day-to-day operations, slowing the business instead of leading it. Adam highlights the importance of rediscovering your āmojoā and finding where you truly add value as a leader. Ā Debra and Adam emphasise that getting a business unstuck is less about strategy and more about execution. That means having a clear vision, strong accountability structures, and consistent communication rhythms. Tools like the accountability chart and regular leadership meetings ensure alignment and keep everyone moving in the same direction. Ā They also discuss the powerful role of external facilitators, who bring objectivity, challenge thinking, and hold founders accountable in ways internal teams often cannot. Ā If your business feels stuck or slow, this episode offers practical insights to help you regain clarity, rebuild momentum, and lead with confidence. Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.auĀ Ā āŗĀ Adam Harris ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adam-harris-eos/Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 267 Chapters:āÆāÆĀ 00:36 ā Why Businesses Get Stuck and How Founders Can Address It Ā | |||
| Living the EOS Life with Daniel Davis | 11 avr. 2026 | 00:33:44 | |
In this podcast episode of Better Business, Better Life, Daniel Davis shares some tips on what the EOS life really is & how you can live the EOS life as an Entrepreneur or Business Owner. Daniel has a 20+ year history of building companies, and his obsession is helping entrepreneurial organisations to clarify, simplify and achieve their vision. He has been a founder, owner and leader in six successful companies in varying industries, and is now responsible for bringing the tools of EOSĀ®, The Entrepreneurial Operating SystemĀ®, into Australia, New Zealand and the Asia Pacific region. In this podcast, Daniel talks about: His love for fast cars, what he learned as life as an IGA owner in the Blue Mountains, how he discovered EOS & his 'twin' Gino Wickman, how he uses EOS in his personal life, how something can be simple but not easy! Daniel's passion to help others is evident in this podcast - you don't want to miss this episode! Daniel's EOS Life: When I read the book Traction by Gino Wickman, I loved it so much that I made it my mission to bring EOSĀ® to Australia. EOS, the Entrepreneurial Operating SystemĀ®, is widely used in the USA and Europe by tens of thousands of companies, and we want to see as many companies as possible enjoying the benefit of the EOS tools across Australia and beyond. Since 2017 the team at EOS Worldwide has entrusted me with the honour of representing and expanding the EOS brand here in Australia and New Zealand, and the wider Asia Pacific Region, where we are building a thriving community of entrepreneurs who are running their businesses using the EOS Process, Model, and Tools. As the regional Community Leader, I train and prepare EOS Implementers for a successful journey to EOS Mastery. At EOS Worldwide, we are devoted to finding, training and supporting like-minded entrepreneurs who want to become master EOS Implementers and live the "EOS Life":
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| Mark C. Winters: The EOS Framework for Aligning Visionaries and Integrators | 06 avr. 2026 | 00:50:24 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by EOS expert and Rocket Fuel co-author Mark C. Winters to explore the power of the visionary integrator relationship and why it is critical for entrepreneurial success. Mark shares his journey from corporate life to building and advising over 15 businesses, and how discovering EOS transformed the way he understood leadership, growth, and team dynamics. At the heart of the conversation is the visionary integrator partnership, a relationship that, when done well, creates clarity, momentum, and sustainable growth. They unpack the common traps entrepreneurs fall into, including the āentrepreneurial seizureā and the āsuccess trap,ā where business growth comes at the expense of personal fulfilment. Mark explains how visionaries must reconnect with their intrinsic genius rather than feeling āput out to pastureā once the business stabilises. The episode also dives into practical tools and frameworks, including the 10 pillars of greatness for visionaries and the Rocket Fuel Power Index, which helps assess and strengthen the health of the visionary integrator relationship. Mark emphasises the importance of self-awareness, role clarity, and healthy friction between visionary and integrator as the engine that drives real progress. If you are a visionary struggling to let go, or an integrator trying to create alignment and traction, this episode offers powerful insights to help you build a stronger partnership and a better business.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner āŗConnect with Debra: ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ GUESTāS DETAILS: āŗ Mark C. Waters ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markcwinters āŗ Website ā Mark C. Winters: https://www.markcwinters.com/
Episode 266 Chapters:āÆāÆ
00:00 ā Introduction 00:40 ā Entrepreneurial Traps and Introspective Work 02:35 ā Mark C Wintersā Journey and EOS Involvement 05:02 ā The Concept of Visionary and Integrator 07:01 ā The Visionaryās Role and the āPut Out to Pastureā Feeling 10:24 ā The 10 Pillars of Greatness for Visionaries 12:38 ā The Importance of Understanding the Business and Role Clarity 23:46 ā The Role of Integrators and the Importance of Healthy Friction 31:26 ā The Visionaryās Personal Operating System and Domains of Freedom 37:51 ā The Entrepreneurial Seizure and Success Trap 40:22 ā Supporting Integrators and the Rocket Fuel Power Index 45:27 ā Final Tips and Tools for Visionaries | |||
| The Power of Focus, Discipline & Believing with Renee Russo | 04 avr. 2026 | 00:24:22 | |
In this podcast episode of Better Business, Better Life, Renee Russo talks about how she worked with her husband to turn around the business, finding her superpowers & the power of focus, discipline & believing.Renee Russo is a highly respected entrepreneurial business coach dedicated to helping people get more out of their businesses. Effective in teaching leadership teams a proven methodology and tools that empower them to get Vision, Traction, Healthy.She prides herself on creating ripples & positive change! She discovered EOS whilst helping her husband run his business. Since then she has become a Certified EOS Implementer & now also coaches other EOS Implementers. | |||
| Erik Dodier: The Power of the Visionary/Integrator Relationship in EOS | 30 mars 2026 | 00:45:02 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor sits down with Erik Dodier to explore the power of the Visionary/Integrator relationship and how it can completely transform a business. Erik shares his journey from growing Pixel Media from zero to $15 million without EOS to an impressive $75 million after implementing it. The turning point? Fully embracing EOS, particularly the visionary-integrator dynamic, which brought clarity to roles, improved decision-making, and reduced the chaos that often comes with rapid growth. He dives into how separating visionary and integrator responsibilities allowed both leaders to play to their strengths, creating a more aligned and accountable leadership team. Erik also highlights the impact of key EOS tools such as the accountability chart, quarterly rocks, and Level 10 meetings, along with the use of platforms like Ninety.io to keep the business focused and connected. The conversation also covers how EOS helped the company navigate the uncertainty of COVID-19, maintain strong communication, and continue scaling through strategic acquisitions. Erik reflects on lessons learned, including the importance of fully committing to EOS rather than partially implementing it. Now an EOS implementer himself, Erik works with businesses of 10 to 500 employees, helping them achieve the same clarity, structure, and growth he experienced. If you're looking to scale your business without losing control, this episode offers practical insights into building a strong leadership partnership and leveraging EOS for long-term success. CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner āŗConnect with Debra: ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ GUESTāS DETAILS: āŗ Erik Dodier ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikdodier/ āŗ Website ā EOS Worldwide: https://eosworldwide.com Episode 265 Chapters:āÆāÆ 00:00 ā Introduction 00:36 ā Introduction to Visionary Integrator and EOS 05:30 ā Erikās Journey with EOS 05:44 ā Challenges and Benefits of the Visionary Integrator Concept 09:06 ā Implementation of EOS Tools and Software 09:31 ā Impact of EOS on Business Growth and Structure 09:41 ā Erikās Transition to EOS Implementer 09:58 ā Challenges and Mistakes in Implementing EOS 26:44 ā Impact of EOS on Business Communication and Accountability 36:31 ā Erikās Experience with Clients and EOS Implementation 41:17 ā Final Thoughts and Advice for Business Owners | |||
| Beyond Burnout with Suzi McAlpine | 28 mars 2026 | 00:24:19 | |
In this episode I am talking to Suzi McAlpine on the launch of her new book - "Beyond Burnout - a New Zealand Guide. How to spot it, stop it and stamp it out." Ā A leadership coach, award-winning blogger and keynote speaker, Suzi works alongside CEOs, managers and executives to facilitate clarity, direction and optimal performance in the areas people need it most. Ā Suzi McAlpine is a Leadership Development Specialist and author of award-winning leadership blog, The Leaderās Digest. She writes and teaches about accomplished leadership, what magic emerges when itās present, and how to ignite better leadership in individuals, teams and organisations. Ā Suzi has been a leader and senior executive herself, working alongside CEOs and executive teams in many guises. Her experience has included being a head-hunter and executive coach, and a practice leader for a division at the worldās largest HR consulting firm. Ā Suzi provides a range of services as a Leadership Development Specialist, including executive coaching, leadership workshops and leadership development programmes for CEOs, leadership teams and organisations throughout New Zealand. She has worked with IAG, Weta Workshop, The Department of Conservation, Contact Energy, Merchant (Overland) Footwear, BDO Accounting, and Nelson Airport to name a few. Ā In 2012, Suzi started The Leaderās Digest, now an internationally acclaimed blog, which provides tips and insights to CEOs and executives around the globe. The blog has been named in CMOEās Top 100 Socially-Shared Leadership Blogs, Serve To Leadās Best 21st Century Leadership Blogs, Charles Spechtās Top 50 Global Leadership Bloggers, Hubworks Global Top 25 Leadership and Management Blogs and MP Star Financialsā global Top 25 Leadership Blogs for Small Business. Ā In 2018, she launched an online leadership programme for emerging leaders, The Leaderās Map. The programme fills a void in the leadership arena, teaching leadership skills and providing support to people who are thrust into roles in which they must lead. The programme gives emerging leaders the necessary tools to succeed in their role. Ā Suzi has used her expertise in the leadership space to write a book on burnout and how leaders can create environments in which people, as well as profits, thrive. Ā In this podcast, she shares some insights, actionable tools & practical tips for Leaders & businesses of all sizes. Ā | |||
| John Munsell: Exploring How Businesses Can Move Beyond Basic AI Usage | 23 mars 2026 | 00:53:36 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor sits down with AI expert and CEO of Bizzuka, John Munsell, to explore how businesses can move beyond basic AI usage and into true capability and scale. John shares his journey from financial services to becoming a leader in AI strategy, and introduces powerful tools such as the AI strategy canvas and scalable prompt engineering. These frameworks help businesses integrate AI into their operations in a structured, repeatable way rather than relying on ad hoc experimentation. Through real-world examples, including a case where AI reduced a three-week project to just three days and saved $70,000, John demonstrates the tangible impact of doing AI properly. He explains why using multiple AI models, structuring prompts effectively, and building knowledge-based documents are critical for achieving consistent, high-quality results. The conversation also tackles common barriers to AI adoption, including fear, lack of training, and unclear use cases. John outlines how organisations can elevate their teams by moving up the levels of AI mastery and embedding AI into everyday workflows across marketing, HR, finance, and operations. If you want to turn AI from a novelty into a true business advantage, this episode offers practical insights, frameworks, and next steps to help you scale smarter and faster. CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner āŗConnect with Debra: ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ GUESTās DETAILS: āŗ John Munsell ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jwmunsell/ āŗ Website ā Bizzuka: www.bizzuka.com Episode 264 Chapters:āÆāÆ 00:00 ā Introduction 00:35 ā Background of John Munsell 02:56 ā Johnās Journey into AI and Business Applications 06:23 ā Johnās Book and Certified Implementer Programme 13:23 ā AI Adoption and Business Efficiency 20:15 ā AI in Different Business Functions 28:58 ā AI Tools and Best Practices 47:36 ā AI in Meetings and Note-Taking 50:06 ā Johnās Tips for AI Implementation 50:21 ā Conclusion and Future Plans | |||
| Sailing Forward with Your Business with Steve Morris | 21 mars 2026 | 00:32:51 | |
Steve started his career designing multi-million dollar racing yachts, and building and coaching high performing teams to help his clients win the world's most demanding races.Ā He has run and grown a small business, and then transitioned his career to become a certified PMP program manager managing million dollar budgets and helping the US Navy launch ships into the fleet.Ā Six years ago he started his own business, Catylator, with the mission and passion to help business owners build better lives through building better businesses, getting unstuck, fueling growth, achieving more profit and having more fun with their crew.Ā He is a Professional EOS Implementer, is certified in the LEGO Serious Play method, and teaches, facilitates and coaches individuals, leaders, and business leadership teams on their voyage to success.Ā He can be reached atĀ steve@catylator.com, or through his website atĀ https://www.catylator.com. | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: What Has to Change in the Leadership Team Before the Business Can Scale Again | 16 mars 2026 | 00:18:19 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor explores why scaling a business is rarely a strategy problem. Instead, it is often a leadership evolution challenge.Ā Debra explains that as businesses grow, the leadership team must grow with them. Behaviours that worked in a smaller business can quickly become bottlenecks in a larger one. Without clear decision rights, role clarity, and true accountability, leadership teams struggle to scale effectively. Ā She discusses the common challenge where visionaries struggle to let go, unintentionally blocking their integrator and leadership team from stepping up. Debra highlights the importance of productive tension in leadership meetings, clear accountability charts, and decision-making authority that moves down as the business grows.Ā The episode also explores the unique challenges faced by family-owned businesses, where family, ownership, and management roles can easily overlap and create emotional friction. Debra explains why separating these roles and clarifying decision rights is essential for healthy leadership dynamics and sustainable growth.Ā If your business has hit a ceiling, this episode offers practical insights on how evolving leadership behaviours, improving accountability, and embracing healthy tension can unlock the next stage of scale and create a better business and a better life.Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.auĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 263 Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā IntroductionĀ | |||
| Success isnāt Rocket Science with Scott Rusnak | 14 mars 2026 | 00:26:47 | |
Scott Rusnak is an accomplished business owner, having built & successfully exited 2 of his companies.Ā He is now a Certified EOS Implementer whose passion is helping business owners and burgeoning entrepreneurs get what they want from their businesses so they can live the life they want. Scott is also the author of 'The Entrepreneurs' field guide - Design your life before someone else does it for you!' In this podcast, we talk about how success isnāt rocket science... Itās all about getting clear on what you want and focusing on it. Scott shares his journey through building & exiting 2 businesses of his own, some of his client success stories, as well as his top 3 tips for helping you to design your best life. We chose to go freestyle on this podcast, with Scott sitting outside on his balcony, next to his surfboard. The sound quality might not be the greatest, but it was a real, open, honest & fun conversation which I hope you'll enjoy! | |||
| Haraya Del Rosario: From Corporate Career to EOS Driven Entrepreneur | 09 mars 2026 | 00:45:44 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor speaks with Haraya Del Rosario Gust about what it means to become an EOS Driven Entrepreneur. Haraya shares her journey from the corporate world into entrepreneurship and how implementing EOS helped her scale her business from 13 to more than 50 employees in just two years. She explains how clarity, accountability, and strong leadership structures transformed the way her company operated and allowed her to step out of the day-to-day operations. The conversation explores the power of the accountability chart, the challenge many founders face when transitioning from operational roles into strategic leadership, and why building strong leadership teams is essential for sustainable growth. Haraya also introduces her new book, The 90-Day Leadership Field Manual, designed to help first-time leaders build confidence, structure, and clarity in their roles. Haraya and Debra also discuss the importance of prioritising health, creating supportive leadership environments, and building communities that allow entrepreneurs and leadership teams to grow together. Haraya shares her vision for expanding EOS communities across Southeast Asia and supporting more leaders on their journey. If you want to understand what it truly means to operate as an EOS Driven Entrepreneur, this episode offers powerful insights on clarity, leadership development, and scaling a business with the right systems in place.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner āŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ GUESTāS DETAILS: āŗ Haraya Del Rosario ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iadelrosario/ āŗ Website ā Satori: https://teamsatori.asia/ Episode 262 Chapters:āÆāÆ 00:00 ā Introduction 00:42 ā Journey to Entrepreneurship and EOS Implementation 10:26 ā Discovering EOS and Scaling the Business 10:51 ā The Impact of Accountability Charts 29:52 ā Challenges and Growth in Leadership 35:05 ā The Role of Visionaries and Strategy 37:40 ā Personal Growth and Professional Fulfilment 37:51 ā The Science of Scaling and Personal Development 39:58 ā Supporting New Leaders and Building Communities 40:47 ā The Importance of Clarity and Health First 44:41 ā Future Plans and Exciting Announcements | |||
| How to Become a True Authority Through Thought Leadership with Verity Craft | 07 mars 2026 | 00:21:43 | |
Verity Craft is an entrepreneur, writer, consultant, speaker (and musical theatre nerd!) based in Auckland, New Zealand. Together with founder Christina Wedgwood, sheās built content agency Intelligent Ink into the experts on thought leadership content in New Zealand. For Verity, thereās nothing better than working with people who are passionate about improving their corner of the world (and nothing worse than random capital letters in the middle of sentences!). Her career has seen her work with hundreds of businesses, brands, and champions of industry who also believe in better ā developing and leveraging clientsā expertise into exceptional content that positions them as authorities in their industries. āTo me, better means leading the conversation; not just doing whatās always been done, or saying whatās already been said. Better means adding value for the people youāre here to serve ā it means serving them up something extraordinary.ā In this podcast with Debra Chantry-Taylor (Professional EOS Implementer & Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach), she talks about how you can use thought leadership to become a true authority. She gives examples of what to do & what not to do, as well as tips for how you start on your better-thinking journey. | |||
| Elevate the Genius Around You! with Dan William | 04 mars 2026 | 00:29:20 | |
Dan Wiliams started his entrepreneurial journey at age 10 earning money as a paperboy and local lawnmower kid. The thrill of the enterprise always meant more to him than the money.Ā He started building and selling computers at the age of 15 and became the go-to for all technology needs for all friends and family.Ā He eventually had his first experience running and owning a business after joining a small IT business at the age of 21.Ā He helped grow it to over $20M in revenue and replaced himself in it and exited.Ā He has done about 5 mergers, sales and acquisitions throughout that time and started his own advisory in 2017 to share his experiences with other business owners.Ā These days he is a director in a software company, a fulfillment company and has his own EOS practice. In this episode, Dan shares with me his journey to exit & how it's important to elevate those around you in order to really let go! The Formal Bio Dan is a Certified EOSĀ® Implementer and has more than 20 years experience in the IT industry. He is the former CEO of Australian MSP and certified Great Place to Work, Powernet. He has facilitated hundreds of sessions globally on leadership, growth, and culture. Dan is driven by his passion for helping others and lifting the tide across the IT industry. Dan is a facilitator in the IT Nation Evolve program and former peer group member. Dan spends the majority of his time pursuing his purpose of connecting people with possibilities to unlock potential. As a lifelong entrepreneur himself, Dan now works with over 25 technology service providers across the APAC region as their EOS Implementer and Coach on their journey. | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: The Science of Scaling - How to Grow Bigger and Better Without Losing Your MindĀ | 02 mars 2026 | 00:22:02 | |
In this episode ofĀ Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor unpacks what scaling really means and why most leadership teams get it wrong.Ā Scaling is not about adding more projects, more people, or more hustle. It is about raisingĀ minimumĀ standards,Ā eliminatingĀ tolerated nonsense, and using time as a strategic tool. Drawing on Dr Benjamin Hardyās bookĀ The Science of Scaling, Debra explains why reasonable goals protect the status quo while impossible goals force clarity, discipline, and structural change.Ā She challenges leaders to stop confusing effort with progress and to start designing businesses that no longer tolerate āzombie workā such as unnecessary meetings, reports, and projects that quietly drain energy and capacity. Through practical examples and sharp insights, Debra outlines how impossible goals with clear timelines create focus, expose inefficiencies, and demand better leadership.Ā If you want to scale without burning out your team or sacrificing quality, this episode will shift how you think about growth, standards, and execution.Ā Ā Ā
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra:Ā ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā Ā Episode 261Ā Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 āĀ IntroductionĀ 00:42Ā āĀ ScalingĀ Businesses: The Science of ScalingĀ Ā 01:21 ā Challenges in Scaling BusinessesĀ Ā 03:15 ā The Role of Impossible Goals in ScalingĀ Ā 04:13 ā Practical Examples of ScalingĀ Ā 06:00 ā The Frame-Floor-Focus Execution LadderĀ Ā 08:36 ā Eliminating Zombie WorkĀ Ā 10:05 ā The Real Science of ScalingĀ Ā 11:36 ā Ad Lib Questions and AnswersĀ Ā 20:43 ā Conclusion and Contact InformationĀ | |||
| How to Work Together in Your Business & Stay Married with Jeni & Nick Clift | 28 fƩvr. 2026 | 00:48:09 | |
Nick and Jeni Clift are the owners & Directors of DWM Solutions, now merged with Milan Industries Group. Ā They have been working together in their own businesses for close to 25 years. Nick is Director of MIG, and holds the role of Visionary. Jeni is Head of People & Culture at MIG. She also has a consultancy business, Tenassia, working with her clients as an EOS Implementer and providing Business & Leadership Coaching. DWM Solutions opened for business in February 2002. We provide proactive IT support services for Local Government, Water Authorities, Education and Health entities as well as small to medium Commercial organisations. In a nutshell, we think about your IT so you donāt have to! Our clients are located across Victoria, we support them from our offices in Melbourne, Bendigo and Echuca, and in January 2017 we relocated our Geelong office to Torquay. Ā We currently employ 16 staff. Prior to founding DWM Solutions, Nick held various roles within the computer and information technology industry. These included Director and General Manager of TriTech Computer Services; and Engineer, Service Manager and National Technical Services Manager over a 13-year career with Unisys. Ā Nick holds Certificate of Technology in Electronics and Certificate of Technology in Computer Servicing from RMIT. Ā These, coupled with his extensive industry and product certifications, highlights a wealth of knowledge and skills. More than 30 years of experience in the computer industry has given Nick a sound understanding of the important role technology plays in business. His ability to keep abreast of the ever-changing pace of information technology is second to none. Jeniās background is in Human Resources & Administration, she has worked with many of Australiaās best known brands, including Morgan & Banks, P&O, KPMG, NAB, Unisys and Phillips. Jeni is a Professional EOS Implementer and works as a Business Coach specialising in Leadership and Personal Development. Ā Jeni is a regular speaker at IT industry events and internationally, sharing her experiences in running a family business and managing the āpeopleā side of a business.
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| Managing the People Issues (or How to Let People Go!) with Tony Falkenstein | 25 fƩvr. 2026 | 00:25:58 | |
In this episode, I am joined by Tony Falkenstein who will be sharing his experiences with the Topic of āManaging the People Issuesā. Tony was born in Auckland, and has a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Auckland. He is a also serial entrepreneur, who has started over 50 companies. In 2003, Tony established New Zealandās first Business High School, at Onehunga High School, with a view to include ābusiness and entrepreneurshipā as a subject in the National Curriculum. In 2011 this goal was attained, and he has assisted the Ministry of Education with establishing Business High Schools throughout the country. In 2008, he was inducted into the New Zealand Business Hall of Fame. In 2010, he was appointed as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for services to business. In 2011, Tony received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Auckland. In 2012, he received the World Class New Zealand Award for āNew Thinkingā. Tony has been married to Heather for 39 years, and has one daughter. In this episode we learn from Tony:
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| Keith Gillispie: From Marine Corps to Real Estate Empire Builder | 23 fƩvr. 2026 | 00:52:14 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Keith Gillispie, co-founder of REI Automated, who shares his powerful journey from serving in the Marine Corps to building a multi-state real estate empire.Ā Keith opensĀ up aboutĀ the discipline and systems mindset he developed in the military, and how that foundation shaped his approach to business. From investing in 34 states to raising over 10 million dollars and helping more than 400 students pursue financial freedom, Keith credits much of his success to one thing: simple, clear, documented systems.Ā The conversation explores the critical role of Standard Operating Procedures in scaling a business, why clarity beats complexity, and how strong systems create both freedom and resilience. He also shares the reality of overcoming significant personal debt, the pressure of entrepreneurship, and how coaching and accountability helped him turn things around.Ā This episode is a practical and inspiring look at how structure, principles, and leadership discipline can transform both business and life. Keith also generously offers his real estate courses free to podcast listeners, making this an episode packed with both insight and opportunity.Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra:Ā ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā GUESTās DETAILS:Ā Ā āŗĀ LinkedIn Profile:Ā https://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-gillispie/ Ā Ā āŗ Website:Ā www.reiautomated.ioāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ Ā Episode 260Ā Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā Keith Gillispieās Journey from Marine Corps to Real Estate EmpireĀ Ā Ā 06:24 ā Transition to Real Estate and Building SystemsĀ Ā Ā 12:17 ā The Role of Systems in Personal and Business LifeĀ Ā Ā 24:23 ā Challenges and Successes in Business GrowthĀ Ā Ā 29:32 ā Implementing EOS and Principle-Based Decision MakingĀ Ā Ā 47:41 ā Keithās Free Real Estate Courses for ListenersĀ Ā Ā | |||
| Marisa Smith: The Psychology Behind Successful EOS Adoption | 16 fƩvr. 2026 | 00:39:18 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Marisa Smith, EOS Implementer and co-author of the new book Rollout, to explore The Psychology Behind Successful EOS Adoption.Ā While many leadership teams implement EOS tools, far fewer successfully embed them across the entire organisation. Marisa shares her journey from software entrepreneur to EOS Worldwide marketing director and now implementer, revealing why self-implementation often stalls and why context, patience, and repetition are essential for lasting traction.Ā Together, Debra and Marisa unpack the four-phase rollout roadmap: prepare, launch, integrate, and sustain. They discuss why the accountability chart and Vision-Traction Organizer are foundational, how leaders must master the tools before teaching them, and why change management is more psychological than procedural. The conversation also dives into the neuroscience of change, the importance of repetition, and the leadership discipline required to reach 100% strong.Ā If you have ever wondered why EOS works brilliantly in some organisations and fizzles in others, this episode explains the human side behind successful adoption.Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.auĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 259 Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā Introduction Ā 02:02 ā Marisaās Entrepreneurial JourneyĀ Ā 04:59 ā Transition to EOS and Becoming an ImplementerĀ Ā 07:19 ā Challenges and Benefits of Rolling Out EOSĀ Ā 10:58 ā The Importance of Context and PreparationĀ Ā 12:26 ā Practical Tools and Tips for RolloutĀ Ā 12:43 ā The Role of an ImplementerĀ Ā 16:20 ā The Psychology of EOSĀ Ā 25:17 ā The Journey to 100% StrongĀ Ā 32:22 ā Final Thoughts and ResourcesĀ | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: Why Priorities Fail in Real Businesses & What Strong Teams Do DifferentlyĀ | 09 fĆ©vr. 2026 | 00:20:47 | |
In this episode ofĀ Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor breaks down why so many leadership teams keep setting priorities that never quite land.Ā Drawing onĀ hundreds of leadership sessions, Debra explains that priorities usually fail not because teams are lazy or uncommitted, but because the system is working against them. Too many priorities, vague outcomes, āforeverā initiatives, and reliance on external factors quietly erode confidence, trust, and momentum.Ā Debra unpacks what strong teams do differently. They limit priorities to three to seven clear,Ā finishableĀ goals per quarter. They write SMART priorities, protect focus time, assume interruptions will happen, and use weekly check-ins to realign rather than panic. She also tackles common leadership traps like founders changing direction mid-quarter, teams chasing perfection instead of progress, and the hidden cost of never finishing anything.Ā This episode is a practical reset for leadership teams who want fewer priorities, cleaner execution, and the confidence that comes fromĀ actually finishingĀ what they start.Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra:Ā ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you:Ā https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā āŗClaim Your Free E-Book:Ā https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 258Ā Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 āĀ IntroductionĀ 00:35 ā Why Priorities Fail in BusinessesĀ Ā Ā 01:36 ā Patterns of Priority FailureĀ Ā Ā 02:39 ā Clarity andĀ PrioritisationĀ Ā Ā 03:47 ā Strategies for EffectiveĀ PrioritisationĀ Ā Ā 04:54 ā Handling Forever Priorities and External DependenciesĀ Ā Ā 07:32 ā Managing Interruptions and Trade-offsĀ Ā Ā 09:31 ā Audience Questions and AnswersĀ Ā Ā 15:25 ā Weekly Meetings and Balancing Flexibility with AccountabilityĀ | |||
| David Hori: The Right Time to Start Exit Planning Is Now | 02 fƩvr. 2026 | 00:42:39 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by David Hori, a business acquisition specialist who has led and supported multiple successful exits, including a sale to Toyota. David unpacks why exit planning is not a future event but a leadership discipline that needs to start early. He explains how strong teams, clear processes, and transparency create real business value and allow a business to operate without its founder at the centre. Drawing on his experience across VC-funded startups, acquisitions, and exits, David shares practical insights into building businesses that are genuinely exit-ready. The conversation explores the role of EOS in reducing owner dependency, the importance of involving the leadership team in exit conversations, and why understanding valuation drivers early gives owners more choice and control. David also shares details of his upcoming webinar series designed to help business owners navigate exit planning with clarity and confidence. This episode is essential listening for founders who want optionality, continuity, and a business that can thrive beyond them. CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner āŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/Ā ___________________________________________Ā GUEST'S DETAILS:Ā āŗ David Hori ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamdavidhori/ āŗTopline Operators ā Website: https://www.toplineops.com/ Episode 257 Chapters:āÆāÆ 00:00 ā IntroductionĀ 00:47 ā Introduction and Overview of Business OutcomesĀ Ā 01:23 ā David Horiās Background and ExpertiseĀ Ā 02:39 ā Davidās Journey from Law Firm to VC-Funded StartupsĀ Ā 05:28 ā The Importance of Processes and Systems in ScalingĀ Ā 07:15 ā Scaling and the Theory of ConstraintsĀ Ā 08:09 ā Factors Influencing VC-Funded Business SuccessĀ Ā 10:16 ā The Role of Transparency and Team in Exit PlanningĀ Ā 14:11 ā Davidās Experience with the Toyota ExitĀ Ā 16:21 ā Key Considerations for Business Owners Planning an ExitĀ Ā 26:16 ā Davidās Tips for Business Owners Considering an ExitĀ Ā 33:54 ā Davidās Upcoming Webinar on Exit PlanningĀ Ā | |||
| Ryan Hogan: Turning Hard Failures into Business Success with EOS | 28 janv. 2026 | 00:45:49 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Ryan Hogan, a serial entrepreneur and CEO of Talent Harbour, shares his incredible journey from bankruptcy to scaling a business to $55 million using EOS and other tools. Ryan discusses the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, including the crucial role of communication, accountability, and structure in scaling a business.
Ryanās entrepreneurial journey spans various ventures, from a murder mystery company to Hunt a Killer, where he pivoted to subscription boxes and landed major retailers like Target and Walmart. He attributes much of his success to implementing EOS, joining peer groups like Vistage and EO, and surrounding himself with brilliant problem-solvers.
He offers valuable advice for entrepreneurs, including the importance of having an operating system, seeking business coaching, and investing in peer support. Ryanās journey serves as an inspiring example of resilience, learning from failure, and the strategic approach needed to grow a business.
CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner āŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/ ___________________________________________ RYAN'S DETAILS: āŗRyan Hogan ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanehogan/ āŗTalent Harbor ā Website: https://talentharbor.com/
Episode 256 Chapters:āÆāÆ
00:00 ā Introduction 00:42 ā Entrepreneurship and Communication Challenges 02:39 ā Ryan Hoganās Entrepreneurial Journey 04:10 ā Transition to Hunt a Killer 45:25 ā The Role of EOS in Business Success 45:38 ā Talent Harbour and Future Plans | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: The January Reality Check ā Why Momentum Dies & How to Rebuild It FastĀ | 19 janv. 2026 | 00:15:15 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor unpacks why January so often feels harder than it should for entrepreneurs and leadership teams, and why losing momentum early in the year is far more common than most people admit.Ā Debra challenges the idea that momentum is about speed, explaining instead that it is built through direction and consistency. She explores the five key reasons January momentum collapses, including unrealistic expectations, goals built on optimism rather than truth, avoiding last yearās unresolved issues, mismatched team energy, and the habit of trying to do everything yourself.Ā Drawing on real client stories and lived experience, Debra reframes January as a warm up month rather than a sprint. She encourages leaders to start with honest conversations, prioritise fewer meaningful actions, reset team rhythms, and address family business tensions that often surface over the holidays.Ā This episode is a grounded reminder that momentum is not created through hype or hustle. It comes from clarity, honesty, and giving yourself permission to rebuild at a sustainable pace. If January has already felt heavy or disappointing, this conversation will help you reset without guilt and move forward with confidence.Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.auĀ Ā āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 255 Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā IntroductionĀ 00:34 ā Januaryās Emotional and Productivity ChallengesĀ Ā 02:56 ā Biological and Emotional Factors Affecting January ProductivityĀ Ā 04:05 ā Common Pitfalls and Real Examples of January MadnessĀ Ā 08:59 ā Rebuilding Momentum with Real SolutionsĀ Ā 11:11 ā Practical Tips for Maintaining MomentumĀ Ā | |||
| Justine Parsons: Finding Business Freedom Without Losing Yourself | 12 janv. 2026 | 00:51:28 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Justine Parsons, founder of Your VA and The Lever, to explore the pivotal shift from managing a business to truly leading one. Justine shares her 27-year journey of building a virtual assistant business from the ground up, growing a team of more than 50 people, and eventually realising that success should not mean constant reactivity, exhaustion, or being needed for every decision. Together, Debra and Justine unpack the moment many founders face where the business works, but the role they are playing no longer does. The conversation dives into the emotional and practical challenges of stepping out of day to day management, trusting others to lead, and redefining what success looks like beyond revenue and growth. Justine reflects the importance of external support, mentorship, and frameworks like EOS in helping her create clarity, build a strong leadership team, and put the right people in the right seats. This episode is a powerful reminder that businesses are meant to serve their owners, not consume them. If you are feeling stuck in the weeds, questioning your role, or sensing it is time to move from managing to leading, this conversation will help you see what is possible on the other side. CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner āŗConnect with Debra: debra@businessaction.com.au āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/ ___________________________________________ JUSTINE'S DETAILS: āŗJustine Parsons ā LinkedIn: https://nz.linkedin.com/in/justineparsons āŗThe Lever ā Website: https://thelever.co.nz/ Episode 254 Chapters:āÆāÆ 00:00 ā Introduction 00:35 ā Transitioning from Manager to Leader 03:24 ā Challenges and Solutions with EOS 05:32 ā Personal Success and Business Balance 08:43 ā The Role of Leadership and Management 18:45 ā Building a Strong Leadership Team 47:38 ā The Journey to Becoming a Leader 48:03 ā The Impact of EOS on Business Growth 48:32 ā The Role of External Support in Business Success 50:54 ā The Importance of Trust and Accountability 51:08 ā The Journey to Personal and Business Freedom | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: Start the Year Off Right: No More Broken New Yearās Resolutions | 05 janv. 2026 | 00:12:26 | |
In this weekās episode ofĀ Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-TaylorĀ challenges the annual ritual of New Yearās resolutions and explains why most of them quietly collapse by February.Ā Debra unpacks the three big illusions that keep entrepreneurs stuck. The belief in a magical fresh start, the short-lived energy of January, and the assumption that wantingĀ changeĀ is the same as committing to it. She shares a loving truth many leaders need to hear. You are not lazy orĀ undisciplined,Ā you are overloaded and unsupported by structure.Ā Rather than chasing motivation, Debra offers a simpler, more sustainable approach. Choosing just two non-negotiable anchors for the year, one personal and one business, and building a consistent weekly rhythm that makes progress unavoidable. She explores how creating friction for old habits, setting firm boundaries, and planning energy into the calendar are essential for real change.Ā The episode also highlights a crucial but often ignored factor in personal follow-through. Your team. Debra explains why individual willpower is not enough, and how tenacious, accountable teams make long-termĀ changeĀ possible.Ā If you are tired of settingĀ goalsĀ you do not keep and ready to build a year thatĀ actually sticks, thisĀ episode will help you replace resolutions with systems and start the year with clarity, compassion, and traction.Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra:Ā ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you:Ā https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 253Ā Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā IntroductionĀ 00:33 āĀ New Yearās Resolutions and Structural FailuresĀ Ā Ā 01:54 ā Three January IllusionsĀ Ā Ā 02:51 ā Loving Truths and OverloadingĀ Ā Ā 04:49 ā The Three-Week SlumpĀ Ā Ā 06:40 ā Setting Goals and Building SystemsĀ Ā Ā 07:13 ā Creating Friction and Setting BoundariesĀ Ā Ā 09:04 ā Treating Yourself with CompassionĀ Ā Ā 10:19 ā The Role of Tenacious TeamsĀ Ā Ā | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: Use Your Holidays to Set Yourself Up for Success | 29 dƩc. 2025 | 00:12:18 | |
In this holiday episode ofĀ Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor tackles a familiar but rarely confronted reality for entrepreneurs: mostĀ donātĀ truly rest over the ChristmasĀ break,Ā they simply pause while staying mentally tethered to work.Ā Ā Debra unpacks the subtleĀ behavioursĀ that sabotage real downtime, from ājust checking emailsā to quietly solving work problems in your head and explains why these habits prevent genuine recovery. She shares why true restĀ isnātĀ indulgent or irresponsible, but essential for clear thinking, strong leadership, and sustainable businesses.Ā Ā Through her signature lens of fierce clarity and loving truth, Debra outlines five practical steps for a healthy Christmas break, choosing presence, resting without guilt, reflecting lightly, reconnecting with who you are beyond the business, and letting go of martyrĀ behaviour. She also explores why family businesses often struggle at Christmas, and how blurred boundaries can quietly undermine both rest and relationships.Ā Ā The episode closes with Debra sharing her own plans for switching off properly, offering a grounded reminder that a business strong enough to survive your absence is a sign of leadership done well.Ā Ā SoĀ ifĀ youāreĀ heading into the festive season exhausted, distracted, or secretly planning to ājust check in,ā this episode is your permission slip, and your plan, to truly rest.Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra:Ā ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you:Ā https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 252Ā Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā IntroductionĀ 00:38 āĀ Christmas Break Realities for EntrepreneursĀ Ā Ā 02:32 ā The Truth About Entrepreneursā Christmas BreaksĀ Ā Ā 04:23 ā The Importance of Rest for EntrepreneursĀ Ā Ā 05:20 ā Family Businesses and ChristmasĀ Ā Ā 08:50 ā Preparing Your Business for a Proper BreakĀ Ā Ā 11:26 ā Debraās Personal Christmas PlansĀ | |||
| Kerry Boulton: Steps to Make Your Business More Exit Ready | 22 dƩc. 2025 | 00:45:48 | |
In this weekās episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Kerry Boulton, an experienced exit planner, business coach, and investor, for a candid conversation about what really happens when business ownersĀ donātĀ plan their exit.Ā Drawing on decades of lived experience, Kerry shares her journey from running a major division in the 1980s to owning, exiting, and reinvesting in multiple businesses. She unpacks a confronting statistic from the Exit Planning Institute: 73% of business owners regret selling their business, largely because theyĀ failed toĀ plan both the exit itself and what comes next.Ā Together, Debra and Kerry explore what it truly means to be exit-ready, from strong financials, systems, and succession planning, to reducing owner dependency and thinking deeply about purpose beyond the business. The conversation also dives into family business succession, the emotional realities of exiting, and why starting at least three years early can make all the difference.Ā This episode is a powerful reminder that exiting a businessĀ isnātĀ a singleĀ transaction,Ā itāsĀ a transition. And done well, it can set you up not just for financial security, but for a meaningful and intentional next chapter of life.Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ ___________________________________________āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business OwnerĀ āŗConnect with Debra:Ā ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you:Ā https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā āŗClaim Your Free E-Book:Ā https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/Ā ___________________________________________Ā GUESTS DETAILS:Ā āŗ Kerry Boulton ā LinkedIn:Ā https://www.linkedin.com/in/businessvaluebuildermelbourne/Ā āŗĀ Get Her Complimentary Valuation Assessment:Ā https://theexitstrategygroup.com.au/value-builder-questionnaire/Ā āŗĀ Get Her Book, The Uncensored Truth about Exit Strategies:Ā https://freeexitstrategybook.com.au/Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 251Ā Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 0:00 ā Kerryās Introduction and Background in Exit PlanningĀ Ā Ā 2:29 ā The Journey to Business Ownership and Initial ChallengesĀ Ā Ā 7:33 ā Implementing TQM and Attracting International BuyersĀ Ā Ā 11:25 ā The Importance of Exit Planning for Baby BoomersĀ Ā Ā 14:35 ā The Impact of Not Having an Exit StrategyĀ Ā Ā 19:53 ā Financial Considerations and the Role of ProfessionalsĀ Ā Ā 25:38 ā Family Business Succession PlanningĀ Ā Ā 32:58 ā The Importance of Systems and Financial HealthĀ Ā Ā 36:48 ā The Role of Earn-Outs and Private EquityĀ Ā Ā 40:22 ā Top Tips for Exit PlanningĀ Ā Ā | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: Why Half EOS is Worse Than No EOS | 15 dƩc. 2025 | 00:15:57 | |
In this weekāsĀ Better Business, Better LifeĀ podcast,Ā Debra Chantry-TaylorĀ delves into the costly consequences of half-committing toĀ EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), revealing how partial implementation leads to confusion, trust issues, and stunted growth. Through real-life examples and stories, Debra stresses the importance of committing fully to EOS, including consistently runningĀ Level 10 meetings,Ā maintainingĀ accurateĀ scorecards, and setting realisticĀ rocks (priorities).Ā Debra also highlights the essential leadership practicesĀ requiredĀ for success with EOS, such as clear direction, accountability, and theĀ LMA (Lead, Manage, Accountability)Ā tools, which provide structure and ensure the right people are in the right seats. The episode provides actionable insights for business leaders to get back on track and achieve transformation by embracing EOS tools and practices with dedication and consistency.Ā IfĀ youāreĀ struggling with half-implementing EOS or facing bottlenecks in your business, this episode is a must-listen.Ā ItāsĀ time to break free from the chaos and make the full commitment to EOS for your companyās success.Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra:Ā ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you:Ā https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā Free Resources:Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 250Ā Chapters:āÆāÆĀ 00:00 ā IntroductionĀ 01:43 ā The Great Business Lie and Half-Using EOSĀ Ā Ā 04:50 ā Costs of Half-Using EOSĀ Ā Ā 06:26 ā The Role of LMA in EOSĀ Ā Ā 08:40 ā Full Commitment to EOSĀ Ā Ā 12:19 ā Steps to Get Back on Track with EOSĀ Ā Ā 14:57 ā Conclusion and Call to ActionĀ | |||
| Owen Garrity: Inside the Journey of Scaling Without Investors | 08 dƩc. 2025 | 00:43:46 | |
In this weekās episode ofĀ Better Business, Better Life,Ā Debra Chantry-TaylorĀ sits down withĀ Owen Garrity, founder and lead creative ofĀ FPW Media, to explore his remarkable journey from professional photographer to leading a 50-person full-service agency, all without external investment.Ā Owen shares the pivotal lessonsĀ heāsĀ learned along the way, from paying four monthsā rent upfront just to secure his first space, to scaling through grit, creativity, and an unshakable belief in saying āyesā to opportunity. He opensĀ up aboutĀ the challenges of delegation, the balance between control and trust, and the importance of celebrating wins, even when growth feels relentless.Ā Together, Debra and Owen dive into the core principles that have shaped FPW Mediaās success: client-centricity, a commitment to team culture, and the courage to follow intuition. Owen also gives a glimpse into his next chapter, expanding intoĀ AI-driven services, new industries, and strategic acquisitions,Ā whileĀ maintainingĀ the same passion and purpose that started it all.Ā This episode is an inspiring listen for entrepreneurs who believe in building something extraordinary from the ground up, one bold decision at a time.Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra:Ā ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you:Ā https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā GUESTS DETAILS:Ā āŗOwen GarrityĀ ā LinkedInĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 249Ā Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā IntroductionĀ 00:43 ā Owen Garrityās Journey and PhilosophyĀ Ā Ā 04:31 ā Building FPW Media from ScratchĀ Ā Ā 08:50 ā Lessons Learned in LeadershipĀ Ā Ā 17:30 ā Growth and Client-Centric ApproachĀ Ā Ā 31:02 ā Building Trust and Team DynamicsĀ Ā Ā 35:27 ā Future Plans and Personal LifeĀ Ā Ā 39:07 ā Advice for EntrepreneursĀ Ā Ā | |||
| Scott Rusnak: Why EOS Life Is About More Than Business Success | 01 dƩc. 2025 | 00:43:35 | |
In this weekās episode of Better Business, Better Life, Debra Chantry-Taylor welcomes back Scott Rusnak, EOS Implementer, author and cyclist, for an inspiring conversation on designing a life that truly aligns with your values. Drawing from his new book, Who is the Architect of Your Own Life, Scott shares practical exercises to help you achieve clarity, purpose and balance. He uses his signature analogy of juggling lifeās āballsā such as business, family, health and faith to illustrate how to prioritise what matters most without dropping the ones that cannot bounce back. Together, Debra and Scott explore how EOS tools and strong core values can guide your business decisions and also support your personal growth. They discuss the importance of planning intentional time with loved ones, maintaining daily health habits and surrounding yourself with supportive people. With plenty of warmth and wisdom, this episode is a reminder that true success is not just about business wins. It is about living deliberately, loving fully and designing your life on purpose.
āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner āŗConnect with Debra: ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/ āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/ ___________________________________________ GUESTS DETAILS: āŗScott Rusnak ā LinkedIn āŗScott Rusnak ā Website Episode 248 Chapters:āÆāÆ 00:00 ā Introduction 00:38 ā EOS Life and Importance of People 05:45 ā Scott Rusnakās Journey and Insights 07:05 ā Balancing Business and Personal Life 11:04 ā EOS Implementation and Core Values 18:02 ā Core Values and Business Success 29:04 ā Planning and Clarity Breaks 32:15 ā Scottās Book and Personal Stories 39:28 ā Final Thoughts and Future Plans | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: Solve Issues Properly and Stop Talking About the Same Issues Every Week | 24 nov. 2025 | 00:17:26 | |
In this weekās episode ofĀ Better Business, Better Life,Ā Debra Chantry-TaylorĀ dives deep into theĀ Issues Solving Track (IDS), a coreĀ componentĀ of theĀ Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). She explains how spending 80-85% of your problem-solving time onĀ identifyingĀ the right issue can lead to better solutions, faster results, and a more efficient team.Ā SheĀ walks you through the three-step IDS process:Ā Identify,Ā Discuss, andĀ Solve,Ā emphasisingĀ the power of asking the right clarifying questions, like theĀ Five Whys, to uncover root causes. She also introduces the concept of theĀ Issue Champion, the person who drives the issue-solving process forward, ensuring the issue gets the attention it needs.Ā DebraĀ alsoĀ shares real-world examples and practical tips for using IDS effectively, so you can tackle your business problems like a pro. IfĀ you'reĀ struggling with recurring issues in your business, this episode will help you break them down andĀ come up withĀ actionable solutions.Ā Tune in to learn how mastering IDS can lead to more sustainable business growth and smoother team dynamics!Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra:Ā ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you:Ā https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: Ā https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 247Ā Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00Ā ā IntroductionĀ 00:36Ā ā Understanding the Issues Solving Track (IDS)Ā Ā Ā 03:49 ā The Importance of Proper IdentificationĀ Ā Ā 05:30 ā The Role of the Issue ChampionĀ Ā Ā 06:15 ā Clarifying Questions in the Identify StepĀ Ā Ā 09:16 ā The Discuss and Solve StepsĀ Ā Ā 12:16 ā The Five Whys TechniqueĀ Ā Ā 13:48 ā Real-World Examples of IDS in ActionĀ Ā Ā 15:14 ā Recap and Challenge | |||
| Beth Fahey: The EOS Rollout Book Every Company Running on EOS Has Been Waiting For | 17 nov. 2025 | 00:54:07 | |
In this weekās episode ofĀ Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Beth Fahey, a former filmmaker turned bakery owner who grew her business from two to 32 employees before discovering the power of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS).Ā Beth shares how tools like the Accountability Chart and Level 10 Meetings transformed her teamās communication, culture, and focus, and how she now helps other business leaders achieve the same results as a professional EOS Implementer. Together, she and Debra explore what it really takes to create strong leadership, foster accountability, andĀ maintainĀ alignment as a company scales.Ā They alsoĀ chatĀ about Bethās upcoming book on EOS rollout, her inspiring podcastĀ Bad Boss Confessional, and the importance of self-care and vulnerability in leadership. WhetherĀ youāreĀ a seasoned leader or just starting your EOS journey, this episode is packed with relatable insights and practical tools to help you lead with clarity, courage, and compassion.Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra:Ā ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you:Ā https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā āŗClaim Your Free E-Book:Ā https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/Ā GUEST DETAILS:Ā āŗĀ Beth FaheyĀ ā LinkedIn:Ā https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethfahey/Ā āŗĀ Beth Fahey ā Website:Ā https://www.bethfahey.com/Ā āŗĀ Beth Fahey ā EOS Worldwide:Ā https://implementer.eosworldwide.com/beth-fahey/Ā āŗĀ Bad Boss Confessional Podcast:Ā https://open.spotify.com/show/07WsPdrtQt3h69PPdL2GXB?si=9980d86bf5c94556Ā Episode 246Ā Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā IntroductionĀ 01:08 ā Leadership and Accountability in BusinessĀ Ā Ā 30:05 ā Bethās Career Journey and EOS ImplementationĀ Ā Ā 30:16 ā The Impact of the Traction Book and EOS ImplementationĀ Ā Ā 30:36 ā Level 10 Meetings and Team EngagementĀ Ā Ā 32:08 ā Rolling Out EOS and Overcoming ResistanceĀ Ā Ā 32:21 ā The Role of Leadership Teams and Operational TeamsĀ Ā Ā 37:40 ā Financial Transparency and Team EngagementĀ Ā Ā 43:36 ā The Importance of Self-Care for LeadersĀ Ā Ā 44:44 ā Bethās Podcast: Bad Boss ConfessionalĀ Ā Ā 49:39 ā Final Thoughts and Contact InformationĀ Ā | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: Change the Person or Change the Person | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:14:52 | |
In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor tackles one of the hardest parts of leadership, dealing with underperforming employees. With honesty and compassion, she explains why avoiding tough conversations only damages trust, culture, and team morale.Ā Debra introduces practical EOS tools like the People Analyser and the SBI (Situation, Behaviour, Impact) model to help leaders give clear, kind, and effective feedback. She explores how to balance courage with compassion,Ā offering coaching and support where improvement is possible, and guiding respectful exits when itās not.Ā Packed with real-world stories, including how one business boosted performance by 20% after making a difficult staffing change, this episode is a must-listen for any leader who wants to strengthen trust, improve culture, and lead with confidence.Ā Because great leadership isnāt about avoiding discomfort,Ā itās about doing whatās right for the business and the people in it.Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗDebra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business OwnerĀ āŗConnect with Debra: ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/Ā Episode 245 Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā Introduction 00:38 ā Handling Persistent Performance Issues in LeadershipĀ Ā 02:12 ā Reasons for Avoiding Tough DecisionsĀ Ā 04:10 ā Using the People Analyser ToolĀ Ā 07:51 ā Radical Candour and Specific FeedbackĀ Ā 09:58 ā Changing the Person or the RoleĀ Ā 11:46 ā Reflecting and Taking ActionĀ Ā 14:05 ā Final Thoughts and Resources | |||
| Sarah Thomas: Turning Clicks into Customers Beyond the Inbox | 03 nov. 2025 | 00:34:13 | |
In this weekās episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor chats with Sarah Thomas, an email marketing automation expert who reveals how smart, personalised emails can outperform social media and transform customer relationships.Ā Sarah shares her journey from managing data systems at Debenhams to helping businesses craft meaningful automations, from welcome sequences to post-purchase follow-ups and re-engagement campaigns. She explains why success isnāt about list size, but about clean data, segmentation, and connection.Ā Listeners will learn how to audit their customer journeys, implement high-performing automations, and focus on metrics that truly drive conversions. With open rates up to 40%, compared to social mediaās 3%, Sarah proves that email remains the most powerful tool for turning subscribers into loyal customers.Ā If youāre ready to ditch generic blasts and start building relationships that convert, this episode is your step-by-step guide.Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra: ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/Ā GUEST DETAILS:Ā āŗ Sarah Thomas ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-thomas-9417493a/Ā āŗ Tierra Marketing Co. Website: https://www.tierramarketingco.com/Ā āŗ Free Resources:Ā
Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 244 Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā Introduction and BackgroundĀ Ā Ā 01:36 ā Early Career and Email MarketingĀ Ā Ā 04:18 ā Challenges and Importance of DataĀ Ā Ā 05:30 ā Customer Life Cycle and Email AutomationĀ Ā Ā 11:44 ā Mapping the Customer JourneyĀ Ā Ā 13:24 ā A/B Testing and MetricsĀ Ā Ā 32:32 ā Case Studies and Real-World ExamplesĀ Ā Ā 32:57 ā Practical Tips and ToolsĀ Ā Ā 33:10 ā Final Thoughts and ResourcesĀ | |||
| Kathy Rushing: Strengthen Your Marriage with CRAVE Before It Drifts | 27 oct. 2025 | 00:51:51 | |
In this heartfelt episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor welcomes back relationship coach and former therapist Kathy Rushing to explore how entrepreneurs can strengthen their marriages while building successful businesses.Ā Drawing on decades of experience, and her own 45-year marriage to a serial entrepreneur, Kathy shares her powerful CRAVE framework: Communication, Rituals and Rhythms, Appreciation and Affirmation, Vision, and Energy. Together, she and Debra unpack how small, intentional habits can keep relationships strong through the chaos of entrepreneurship.Ā From recognising early warning signs of drifting apart to using tools like the DISC profile and the Weekly Marriage Compass, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help couples stay connected, communicate better, and build shared visions for life and business.Ā Warm, wise, and deeply relatable, itās a reminder that success at work means little without harmony at home, and that every great business starts with a strong foundation of love and understanding.Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra: ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/Ā GUEST DETAILS:Ā āŗ Kathy Rushing ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-rushing/Ā āŗ Lodestar Relationship Coaching Website: https://kathyrushing.com/Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 243 Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā Introduction and Recap of Previous DiscussionĀ Ā Ā 01:54 ā Kathy Rushingās Background and the CRAVE FrameworkĀ Ā Ā 04:50 ā The Importance of Communication and RitualsĀ Ā Ā 05:13 ā Balancing Business and MarriageĀ Ā Ā 18:44 ā Tools and Assessments for Improving MarriageĀ Ā Ā 31:06 ā Identifying Early Warning Signs of DriftĀ Ā Ā 32:40 ā Strategies for Managing Stress in MarriageĀ Ā Ā 32:57 ā Top Tips for Improving MarriageĀ Ā Ā 49:48 ā Conclusion and ResourcesĀ Ā Ā | |||
| Ian Murray: The Hard Truth About Implementing EOS as a Visionary | 20 oct. 2025 | 00:47:37 | |
In this weekās episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor sits down with Ian Murray, visionary of Murray Insurance and EOS Implementer, to explore how implementing EOS turned his chaotic insurance agency into a thriving, values-driven business.Ā Ian opens up about his early struggles, working nonstop, feeling frustrated with his team, and trying to self-implement EOS before realising the true power of doing it with his people, not to them. With honesty and humour, he shares how EOS tools like the Level 10 Meeting, Vision/Traction Organizer (VTO), and Leadership + Management Accountability (LMA) framework reshaped his leadership and his companyās culture.Ā From the moment a simple book recommendation, Traction, changed his path, to the pivotal āfocus dayā that led to one leader stepping down (and the business stepping up), Ianās story is a powerful reminder that clarity and consistency beat chaos every time.Ā Whether youāre self-implementing EOS or considering bringing in an implementer, this episode is packed with real-world lessons about alignment, accountability, and leading with vision.Ā Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra: ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/Ā GUEST DETAILS:Ā āŗĀ Ian Murray ā LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianasmurrayĀ āŗ Ian Murray ā EOS Worldwide: https://www.eosworldwide.com/ian-murrayĀ āŗ Murray Insurance Website: https://www.murrayinsurance.ca/Ā
Ā Ā Episode 242 Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā Ian Murrayās Journey to EOS ImplementationĀ Ā 07:16 ā Challenges and Learnings in Implementing EOSĀ Ā 10:29 ā The Impact of Vision and Core FocusĀ Ā 16:17 ā The Role of the VTO and Accountability ChartĀ Ā 20:45 ā The Power of Quarterly Conversations and LMAĀ Ā 45:17 ā Ianās Ideal Client and Final TipsĀ Ā | |||
| Debra Chantry-Taylor: How Much Time Do You Really Have To Do EOS Rocks? | 13 oct. 2025 | 00:23:49 | |
In this weekās episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor dives into one of the most common traps for business leaders, taking on too many priorities and finishing none.Ā Drawing on her experience as a certified EOS Implementer, Debra breaks down the power of setting clear, focused quarterly priorities or ārocks.ā She explains why most leaders only have about 65 hours per quarter to work on the business, and how spreading that time too thin leads to burnout and stalled progress.Ā Through practical examples and relatable stories, Debra shows how to define true rocks (not boulders), write SMART goals, and block time to make meaningful progress. She also shares how integrating rocks into weekly meetings and scorecards keeps teams aligned and accountable.Ā Whether youāre a visionary constantly chasing new ideas or a leader buried in the day-to-day, this episode will help you refocus on what truly moves the business forward, fewer priorities, done better.Ā Ā Ā CONNECT WITH DEBRA:āÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆāÆĀ āŗConnect with Debra: ā debra@businessaction.com.au ā Ā āŗSee how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/Ā āŗClaim Your Free E-Book: https://www.businessaction.co.nz/free-e-book/Ā FREE RESOURCES:Ā āŗ ROCKS ā Why You Donāt Get Them Done Ā Ā Ā Ā Episode 241 Chapters:āÆāÆĀ Ā 00:00 ā Episode Introduction and PurposeĀ Ā 01:22 ā Understanding the Concept of RocksĀ Ā 01:38 ā Time Management and PrioritisationĀ Ā 05:08 ā Defining and Managing RocksĀ Ā 13:58 ā Writing SMART RocksĀ Ā 14:10 ā Practical Tips for Managing Rocks | |||