Owner to Owner is the boldest business podcast for Australia’s SMEs. Host Michael Kerr gets raw and real, talking to business owners like you. Exploring the everyday struggles they face and the different pathways they tread to success. Forget the slick stories of tech titans and out-of-reach solutions from people who’ve never put their hopes and livelihood on the line. Owner to Owner dives into the wins and losses, pitfalls, luck and moments that made a difference.
You’ll find grit, laughs, maybe a few tears and hard-won lessons only available from others who’ve been where you are—whatever your stage of ownership.
Every business owner has a compelling story to share. Join us to listen and learn.
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BizVal Global founder Graham Stephen on making your business more valuable and sellable.
Season 1 · Episode 159
Thursday, July 24, 2025 • Duration 01:00:24
@Michael Kerr and @Graham Stephen, founder of @BizVal Global, discuss #businessvaluation for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). With "85 to 95% of small businesses not sellable" we discuss the imperative for owners and advisers to understand business value today so they can begin proactively increasing it from tomorrow.
Graham explains why forward-looking valuations are the key to helping business owners make informed decisions.
They explore Graham's journey into entrepreneurship and his fascinating global perspective on business valuation,
Takeaways
Business valuation is often overlooked until a sale is imminent.
Many business owners do not understand the true value of their business.
Regular valuations can help business owners make informed decisions.
Owner dependency is a critical factor in business valuation.
Valuation should be a forward-looking process, not just historical.
Understanding cash profits is more important than revenue figures.
The compliance aspect of valuation can limit its effectiveness.
Data accuracy is essential for credible valuations.
Removing red tape can foster a better environment for SMEs.
Access to funding is crucial for small business growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to BizVal Global and Its Purpose
02:32 Graham's Journey to Entrepreneurship
05:27 Understanding Business Valuation Importance
08:43 The 85% of Unsellable Businesses
12:13 Global Perspectives on Business Valuation
14:25 Choosing the Right Valuation Approach
18:43 The Valuation Process Explained
21:40 Key Valuation Drivers for Business Owners
24:39 The Role of Accountants in Valuation
27:36 Valuation Multiples and Their Implications
30:39 Understanding Business Valuation: Buyers and Multiples
34:30 The Impact of Business Age and Owner Dependency
38:33 Mitigating Risks: Insurance and Business Preparedness
39:28 Data Sources and Valuation Challenges
43:21 Valuation Process: A Comprehensive Approach
49:23 Valuation Gaps: Realistic Expectations and Deal Structures
52:10 Improving Australia's SME Landscape: Key Recommendations
@kerrcapital
Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.
Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.
Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.
Amy Christopherson founder of Grounded HR, making your small business team click.
Season 1 · Episode 158
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 • Duration 54:37
In this conversation, @Michael Kerr and @Amy Christopherson, founder of @Grounded HR, discuss her pathway into small business ownership, the importance of HR in small businesses, and the challenges faced by business owners.
They explore the significance of leadership in employee engagement, navigating difficult conversations, and building a positive workplace culture. Amy shares insights on #exit planning, #employee ownership, and the impact of #remote work on business operations. The discussion emphasizes the need for a growth mindset and the importance of focusing on people within organizations.
Takeaways;
Amy started Grounded HR while traveling Australia.
HR should be accessible to small businesses from day one.
Disengaged employees can sacrifice profit.
Business owners need to learn people management skills.
Difficult conversations are acts of kindness.
Small gestures can build a positive workplace culture.
Remote work has changed employee expectations.
Exit planning is crucial for business resilience.
Employee ownership can be a viable transition strategy.
A growth mindset is essential for business leaders.
Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.
Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.
Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.
Honor Northam from Honorbread on employee ownership and fostering resilient local economies.
Season 1 · Episode 157
Tuesday, July 1, 2025 • Duration 46:21
Host @Michael Kerr speaks with @Honor Northam about her journey in business ownership and her advocacy for employee ownership. They discuss the challenges and benefits of transitioning to employee ownership trusts (EOTs), the impact of small businesses on local communities, and the cultural barriers that hinder the adoption of employee ownership in Australia.
Honor shares her experiences with her bakery, @Honorbread, and how with limited formal business qualifications she has successfully run multiple businesses.
The discussion covers;
the upside of employees having a real stake in the companies they work for
#employeeownership as a way to reward those who contribute to a business's success.
how transitioning to an employee ownership trust can be financially beneficial for business owners
why #communityimpact is a significant consideration for small business owners when thinking about #exitplanning
how small businesses play a crucial role in supporting local communities
why understanding #EOTs is essential for business transitions.
why cultural perceptions of ownership can hinder the adoption of employee ownership models.
why regular business valuations are important for planning transitions
how the future of employee ownership in Australia is promising but requires more advocacy and understanding.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Employee Ownership
02:47 Honor's Business Journey and Employee Ownership Experience
05:59 Challenges and Misconceptions in Employee Ownership
09:09 Financial Benefits of Employee Ownership
11:56 Transitioning Businesses to Employee Ownership
Rosy McEvedy entrepreneurial founder of IV League Drips on overcoming the challenges of starting up and recovering from 2 big financial hits.
Rosy founded the business in 2018 and has grown it to nearly 200 licensees.
She faced two major setbacks in her entrepreneurial journey.
The first setback was a partnership that ended poorly due to lack of compatibility.
Rosy's background in pharmacy and nursing influenced her business direction.
Rosy shares her personal take on the;
Importance of #resilience
Complexities of #businesspartnerships
Value of self-awareness in business
Need for thorough research and understanding when entering partnerships and the significance of hiring the right people to fill gaps in a business.
The conversation covers Rosy's innovative licensing model in the health industry, aiming to make preventative health services accessible across Australia.
Takeaways
She highlights the importance of hiring over partnerships for business growth.
Rosy's resilience and determination have been key to her success. Every business owner faces moments of doubt.
Jon Manning from Pricing Prophets on unlocking profitability through pricing strategies.
Season 1 · Episode 155
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 • Duration 01:03:59
@Michael Kerr and @Jon Manning on why #pricing is the biggest lever for improving profitability. They discuss using pricing strategies as a highly effective way to increase small business profitability. They explore the #psychology behind pricing, the common hesitations business owners face when considering price increases, and the importance of effectively communicating these changes to customers.
They cover innovative pricing tactics, the significance of choice architecture in proposals, and the necessity of establishing a systematic pricing cadence.
Key takeouts;
the need for businesses to understand their value proposition
how and when to reassess pricing models to ensure sustainability and growth
why business owners need to engage in meaningful discussions with their customers about value and pricing
the importance of understanding the different 'business unit' within a business when considering price changes
the psychological aspects of pricing that affect customer perceptions
how reframing pricing discussions as value conversations can help
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Pricing Strategies
09:37 The Psychology of Pricing and Business Owner Hesitation
18:34 Communicating Price Changes Effectively
23:07 Understanding Customer Value and Pricing Conversations
31:08 Reassessing Pricing Models for Profitability
37:41 Understanding Pricing Complexity
40:00 Innovative Pricing Tactics
47:12 The Power of Choice Architecture
55:48 The Psychology of Pricing
Marama Carmichael from Oracle Tree on helping owners fix their Frankenstein businesses
Season 1 · Episode 154
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 • Duration 01:01:00
@Marama Carmichael shares her pathway that started in science and now sees her as founder and CEO of @Oracle Tree, a full-stack digital marketing agency. She discusses the pivotal moments that led her to start Oracle Tree, emphasizing the importance of empowering business owners and better understanding their needs.
Marama highlights the challenges many business owners face, including the tendency to create 'Frankenstein' businesses that are reactive rather than strategic.
She advocates for financial literacy, mentorship, and the need for external perspectives in business.
The conversation also touches on her book, 'Fixing Frankenstein,' which aims to help business owners take charge of their operations and make informed decisions.
Marama's journey reflects the importance of adaptability in business.
Empowering business owners is at the core of Oracle Tree's mission.
Asking 'why' can lead to deeper insights for business owners.
Many business owners create reactive 'Frankenstein' businesses.
Financial literacy is crucial for business resilience.
Mentorship can provide valuable external perspectives.
Strategic marketing spending is essential for growth.
Curiosity can drive innovation and improvement in business.
Understanding client needs is key to effective marketing.
Creating a supportive business environment fosters success.
In this conversation, Michael and Bill discuss the challenges and strategies for building resilient businesses, emphasizing the importance of shifting from a short-term profit mindset to a long-term vision.
Bill shares his journey from a challenging upbringing in #Kununurra to becoming a successful entrepreneur and business leader. The conversation delves into key themes;
the importance of stewardship in small and medium enterprises (SMEs),
the lessons learned from selling his business Acquire,
the vision behind his current venture, ADAPT, which aims to support SME owners in building resilient businesses,
the need for leadership development within SMEs, and
the significance of creating a supportive community for business owners.
They explore the need for;
Role clarity,
Trust in business culture, and
The legislative changes required to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Bill highlights the significance of decision-making infrastructure and the need to rethink capital distribution to empower SMEs.
The discussion culminates in the idea that business owners should focus on creating options and flexibility rather than viewing selling as the only exit strategy.
Takeaways;
Stewardship is crucial for the success of SMEs.
Business owners often feel overwhelmed and isolated.
Leadership development is essential for SME growth.
The sale of a business should be approached strategically.
Bill's upbringing influenced his passion for supporting SMEs.
Jaryd Krause online business M&A advisor has a smart strategy to help grow your offline business
Season 1 · Episode 152
Wednesday, April 30, 2025 • Duration 52:25
@jaryd krause is an Online Business M&A Advisor with deep experience growing 7 & 8 Figure Online Businesses. In this discussion we talk about the huge potential for offline business owners to leverage online assets for grow, and also how to take advantage of the opportunities.
Jaryd shares his personal back story. From starting as a plumbing apprentice to becoming a leading M&A advisor in Online Businesses.
The conversation covers how traditional businesses can;
leverage online platforms
resolve major business challenges, including lead generation
create new revenue streams
save time and resources with a smart acquisition
We also talk about;
Why marketplaces like @Flippa are valuable resources for buying online businesses
the evolution of business models and the opportunities being created as a consequence
the critical aspects of assessing online business opportunities
learning from past mistakes, and strategies for small business growth
the significance of mentorship and the need for small businesses to innovate and share best practices for success
assessing financials and traffic sources when buying online businesses
Chapters
00:00Introduction to Online Business Acquisition
02:59Jared's Journey from Plumbing to Online Business
06:09The Synergy of Online and Offline Businesses
08:56Acquisition Strategies for Business Growth
11:46Leveraging Online Assets for Offline Success
15:06Exploring Marketplaces for Online Business Acquisition
18:01Understanding Business Valuation and Multiples
21:10Navigating the Online Business Landscape
Gabe Enslin from The Adapt Way on building thriving businesses that don't need their owners
Season 1 · Episode 151
Friday, March 28, 2025 • Duration 01:00:27
@gabe enslin from @the adapt way and @michael kerr discuss the importance of building resilience in small and medium businesses. They explore Gabe's diverse background, the Adapt mission, and the critical role of business owners in shaping their companies' futures.
The conversation covers;
the need for owners to clarify what they want from their business and then align their business strategies accordingly
the importance of resilience, culture, and role clarity
Gabe shares case studies of successful business transformations, emphasizing the need for a high-performance culture and effective ownership frameworks. They explore the vision for the future of ADAPT, along with policy recommendations to support SMEs.
The discussion highlights the significance of understanding employee needs and fostering an engaging work environment to drive business success.
Some key takeaways;
Many owners desire time back rather than just growth.
Understanding the owner's vision is key to business success.
Clarity of purpose can transform business strategies.
Resilient businesses are more valuable than those set up solely for sale.
The impact of a business extends beyond financial metrics.
Owners often want to contribute positively to their communities.
Effective communication of desires is essential for business alignment. Having clear conversations about what you want is crucial.
Building a resilient infrastructure enables sustainable growth.
Cultural metrics can improve even during rapid growth.
Role clarity is essential for high-performing teams.
Mark Fletcher founder Tower Systems on using tech to transform independent retail
Season 1 · Episode 150
Tuesday, March 11, 2025 • Duration 55:06
In this episode of Small Business Banter, @Michael Kerr and @Mark Fletcher discuss the evolution and future of independent retailers, particularly news agencies. Mark shares insights from his experience with News Express and Tower Systems, emphasizing the importance of adapting to change, leveraging technology, and understanding market dynamics. The conversation highlights the critical role of independent retailers in communities and the need for them to embrace innovation to thrive in a competitive landscape. In this conversation, Michael and Mark Fletcher discuss the journey of transitioning a long-standing business, the importance of local businesses in building sustainable communities, and the complexities involved in selling a business.
Mark shares his experiences with various acquisition processes, the significance of maintaining business performance during transitions, and the emotional challenges of business ownership.
They also touch on the need for government support for small businesses and the potential benefits of politicians gaining firsthand experience in small business operations.
Takeaways;
Independent retailers are crucial for community engagement.
Evolving product offerings is essential for survival.
Technology can significantly enhance retail operations.
Retailers must adapt to changing consumer preferences.
Online presence is vital for modern retail success.
Data-driven decisions can improve profitability.
Successful retailers embrace change and innovation.
Community-focused businesses can thrive despite challenges.
Understanding market trends is key to growth.
Retailers should leverage insights from their point of sale systems. Building sustainable communities relies on thriving local businesses.
Navigating the complexities of business transitions requires careful planning.
Timing is crucial when considering the sale of a business.
Maintaining business performance during a sale is essential for value.
michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.au
www.ownertoownerpodcast.com.au
15:01 Community Impact and Responsibility
18:01 Supporting Local Youth and Employment
20:52 The Complexity of Business Succession
24:09 Opportunities in Employee Ownership
26:09 Exploring Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs)
29:20 Challenges of Employee Buy-In
32:30 Cultural Perceptions of Employee Ownership
37:43 Valuing Business Equity and Its Implications
Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.
Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.
Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.
24:40 Second Setback: Financial Distress and Lessons Learned
28:03 Overcoming Financial Setbacks
34:00 The Importance of Support Systems
38:57 Purpose-Driven Business
50:56 Mentorship and Guidance for Growth
Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.
Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.
Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.
Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.
Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.
Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.
07:45Understanding Client Needs: The Importance of Asking 'Why?'
10:28The Challenges of Business Ownership: Navigating Flux and Reactivity
13:24Creating a Sustainable Business: The Role of Strategy
16:18Choosing the Right Clients: Culture Fit and Business Success
19:01The Importance of Self-Reflection for Business Owners
21:48Oracle Tree's Services: A Comprehensive Approach to Marketing
28:05Strategic Financial Management in Business
30:23The Importance of Mentorship and Guidance
32:49Understanding Business Structure and Roles
37:21The Need for Holistic Business Perspectives
39:03The Value of External Insights and Mentorship
43:48Curiosity and Continuous Learning in Business
47:27Key Priorities for Small Business Resilience
Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.
Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.
Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.
Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.
Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.
Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.
23:51The Future of Business: Online and Offline Integration
26:42Diversifying Business Models
32:06Assessing Online Business Opportunities
36:03Learning from Mistakes in Acquisitions
40:12Strategies for Small Business Growth
44:05Empowering Small Businesses for Success
Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.
Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.
Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.
Partnerships can alleviate the loneliness of business ownership.
"It has to start with the owner"
"What do you want?"
"I want time back"
Chapters
00:00Introduction to the Owner to Owner Podcast
01:46Gabe Enslin's Journey and Background
12:51Understanding the ADAPT Way
16:12The Importance of Owner's Vision
20:01Identifying Owner's True Desires
22:49Aligning Business Strategy with Owner's Goals
30:22Building Resilient vs. Sellable Businesses
33:10Navigating Business Transformation
34:29Case Studies of Success
36:56Building Resilience in Business
38:07The Importance of Culture
40:33Role Clarity and Employee Engagement
42:28Creating a High-Performance Culture
44:33Stewardship and Ownership Dynamics
46:42Designing Ownership Frameworks
49:39The Journey of Business Partnerships
54:29Vision for the Future of ADAPT
55:31Recommended Reads for Business Owners
57:02Policy Recommendations for SMEs
Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.
Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.
Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.
Defining roles post-acquisition can help ease the transition.
Business ownership can be a lonely journey, requiring support systems.
Preparing for a business sale should be an ongoing process.
Legislating for small business awareness can change political perspectives.
Reforming government procurement can better support small businesses.
Small businesses play a vital role in providing employment and community stability.
Sound Bites
"Retailers need to embrace change."
"I love your pathway out of school."
"Make every day a payday."
"Small businesses give people a start."
Chapters
00:00The Evolution of Independent Retailers
15:10Adapting to Change in Retail
29:59Leveraging Technology for Growth
28:52Navigating the Complexities of Business Transition
32:36The Importance of Timing in Business Sales
34:48Maintaining Business Performance During Transition
39:31Defining Roles Post-Acquisition
42:08The Loneliness of Business Ownership
44:25Preparing for a Successful Business Sale
48:22Legislating for Small Business Awareness
50:27Reforming Government Procurement for Small Business Support
@kerrcapital
@ownertoownerpodcast.com.au
Thanks for listening. Visit the Owner To Owner Podcast website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.
Search @ownertoownerpodcast on your favourite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.
Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.
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