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My guest today is Nikki, the founder of Accomplished Education. Nikki has over 22 years of experience in state and federal law enforcement in Australia. In her role, she has sat on recruitment and promotion panels, which inspired her to create Accomplished Education - a business focused on helping people write winning job applications and prepare for interviews. Nikki is passionate about empowering individuals to showcase their value and land their dream roles.
Episode Summary:In today's episode, Nikki and I dive deep into her journey of transitioning from law enforcement to entrepreneurship. Nikki shares how her frustration with seeing qualified candidates miss out on roles due to poor job application skills led her to create Accomplished Education as a "passion project" on the side. We discuss how Nikki leveraged a career break to focus on building the foundations of her business, setting up systems and processes to streamline operations. Nikki emphasizes her commitment to maintaining both her day job and her business, as she finds fulfillment in the different aspects each role provides.Nikki opens up about the ebb and flow of motivation, and the importance of being kind to herself and focusing on high-impact tasks. She also shares her plans to expand Accomplished Education's offerings, with a greater focus on training, workshops and teaching job seekers essential skills.Throughout our conversation, Nikki's authenticity and determination shine through. Her story is an inspiring example of how you can build a successful business while maintaining a fulfilling career. I hope this episode encourages listeners to define success on their own terms and not be swayed by societal expectations.Key Takeaways: Define success on your own terms - don't be limited by societal expectations of what a "real" business looks like. Embrace the ebb and flow of motivation and focus on high-impact tasks when energy is low. Leverage the strengths of both your career and your business to find fulfillment in both. Invest time upfront to build efficient systems and processes that support your business growth. Sharing your expertise through training and workshops can be a powerful way to help others and grow your business.Notable Quotes:"If it works for you, do it. We define our own success.""The to-do list will never be fully complete. Focus on what moves the needle.""I thrive on process and structure. Monthly planning helps me stay on track."
www.accomplisheducation.com.auFacebookInstagramlinkedinyoutube
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In this episode, I chat with Olga from Studio Thimble about her incredible journey from being a process engineer to launching a thriving sewing business. We dive into how she discovered her love for sewing, the transition from hobbyist to entrepreneur, and the challenges she faced along the way. Olga shares her insights on building a brand, creating an engaged community, and making a business out of a creative passion. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn something you love into a successful venture, this one’s for you. It’s packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a whole lot of encouragement for anyone looking to take the leap into entrepreneurship!
Key Takeaways:
You don’t have to start with a business degree—passion and persistence go a long way.
Community is key—building relationships helps grow a loyal audience.
Embrace your journey—even if it takes unexpected turns, it can still lead to success.
Teaching others your craft can be a great business model.
Authenticity is your superpower—people connect with real stories and genuine passion.
https://studiothimbles.com.au/https://www.facebook.com/StudioThimbleshttps://www.instagram.com/studio_thimbles/
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Hi, I’m Sarah Thomson, and in this episode, I’m flying solo! I wanted to dive into the idea that starting now is always fine—no matter the time of year. So many of us feel pressure to start fresh in January, but life gets in the way. I’ll share my thoughts on how to reset, build momentum, and set goals that actually work for your business and life.
Episode Summary: January can feel like a chaotic blur, especially for business owners juggling holidays, family, and the pressure of a ‘new year, new me’ mindset. In this episode, I explore why waiting for the perfect moment isn’t necessary and how you can start fresh anytime. I share practical ways to regain focus after a slow start, rethink goal-setting to fit real life, and embrace consistency over perfection. Whether you’re feeling behind or just need a reset, I’ll show you how to create momentum without the stress. Let’s ditch the overwhelm and make progress on our terms!
Key Takeaways:
It’s never too late to start fresh—momentum can begin any day.
Perfection isn’t the goal; small, consistent steps matter more.
Customizing your goals to fit your life leads to better success.
Overcoming the January slump starts with giving yourself grace.
Focus on what you can do rather than what you’ve missed.
Notable Quotes:
"The perfect time to start is whenever you decide to. No need to wait for a fresh calendar!"
"Small steps build big momentum—don’t underestimate the power of just starting."
"January isn’t a deadline; it’s just a month. Your progress is on your timeline."
"Forget the pressure to have it all figured out—just take action."
"Your goals should fit your life, not the other way around."
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In this episode, I’m joined by Mel Brown, a financial expert and author of My Financial Adulting Plan. With years of experience helping individuals and business owners take control of their money, she’s here to share her wisdom on making finance work for you. We unpack the myths around money, discuss practical strategies for managing cash flow, and explore why understanding your finances is crucial for business success. Mel shares her journey from struggling with money to becoming a financial powerhouse, offering relatable insights along the way. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to get a grip on your business finances or someone who just wants to feel more confident with money, this episode is packed with insights you can start using today. We also chat about the mindset shifts needed for financial success—because money isn’t just about numbers, it’s about confidence too!
Resource Page : https://www.melissabrowne.com.au/thesocialcircus
Join the next live round of My Financial Adulting Plan : More Info
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Key Takeaways:Financial literacy is the key to business success. Small changes in money habits create big results. Understanding cash flow helps you make smarter decisions. Investing isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for everyone. Confidence with money starts with knowledge and action.
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In this episode, I’m diving into the tradition of picking a "word for the year" and how it can set the tone for everything you do. I explore why this practice is so popular and share practical steps for choosing a word that feels authentic and aligned with your goals. Whether you’ve been doing this for years or it’s your first time, I’ve got tips and anecdotes to guide you through the process. I’ll also reflect on the podcast’s incredible three-year journey, sharing my excitement for the episodes ahead. If you’re ready to kickstart 2025 with focus and intention, this one’s for you!
Key TakeawaysReflect on your past year before choosing your word.Let your word align with your personal and professional goals.Avoid choosing a word arbitrarily; it should resonate deeply.Use your word as a decision-making anchor throughout the year.Revisit your word often to stay motivated and on track.Notable Quotes"Your word for the year isn’t just a word; it’s your North Star.""Choosing a word aligned with your values can be a game-changer.""Reflection is the key to finding a word that truly resonates.""This simple practice can create clarity in your life and business.""The word you choose will shape your focus and your year." -
In this reflective episode, I take you behind the scenes of "The Social Circus" as we close out 2024. It’s been three amazing years of podcasting, and I’m sharing what I’ve learned along the way—the challenges, triumphs, and why we take a well-deserved break over Christmas. I delve into what it takes to keep a podcast running weekly, from the energy and planning to the constant creativity. This episode is a mix of gratitude, storytelling, and a sneak peek at what’s to come for the podcast in 2025. Whether you're a fellow podcaster, a business owner, or just curious about the journey, there’s plenty of inspiration to take away. Let’s wrap up the year together with positivity and purpose!
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Key TakeawaysConsistency is the backbone of podcasting success.Taking breaks is essential for maintaining creativity and energy.Reflecting on accomplishments keeps motivation alive.Planning ahead ensures podcast longevity.Sharing gratitude fosters connection with your audience. -
Episode Summary
In this episode of The Social Circus, I dive into the power of reviewing your year—yep, we’re talking about the highs, lows, and everything in between for 2024! I share practical steps to evaluate your business performance, unpack what worked (and what didn’t), and identify where you can level up. You’ll also hear about my own reflections as I gear up for 2025, because who doesn’t love a sneak peek? Whether you’re a pro at annual reviews or feeling a bit clueless, this chat is packed with tips to wrap up your year with clarity and purpose. Ready to turn those lessons into goals for 2025? Let’s do this!
2025 Goal Setting and Planning Workshop
Key TakeawaysBreak your year into sections to identify trends.Celebrate wins, no matter how small.Use data to guide your decisions for 2025.Reflect on challenges to discover growth areas.Create actionable goals for the new year.Notable Quotes"Reflection isn’t about criticism—it’s about growth.""Your biggest wins might not be in the numbers but in the lessons learned.""Small steps forward are still steps forward.""Reviewing your year is like prepping your soil for next season’s harvest.""Clarity comes from looking back before moving ahead."2025 Goal Setting and Planning Workshop
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In this episode, I’m joined by Chris from MopTops Hair, and together, we dive into her incredible journey from founding a children’s hair salon to running a successful business for nearly two decades. Chris and I reminisce about our first meeting when she cut my son’s hair as a toddler, and we explore how her salon became a haven for families. We also discuss the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the importance of building community, and why understanding your customers is key. Whether you're a parent, a business owner, or just someone looking for inspiration, there’s something here for you!
Key Takeaways:Specialising in a niche can set your business apart.Building strong customer relationships is invaluable.Serving families requires a unique approach to customer care.Perseverance and passion are essential for business growth.Always adapt to changing customer needs.https://www.facebook.com/moptopshaircare?mibextid=LQQJ4dhttps://linktr.ee/moptops101https://www.instagram.com/chris_gaskell_moptopshaircare/
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This week, I had an inspiring conversation with Jenni Harding, the brains behind Greatest Good. We dived deep into the world of purpose-driven business, exploring how Jenni’s unique approach helps businesses thrive while creating a positive impact. We chatted about the challenges of blending social media strategy with mindset shifts, and Jenni shared her secrets to building resilience and staying authentic in a competitive world. Whether you’re a small business owner or dreaming of starting one, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you navigate growth, embrace innovation, and connect with your audience in meaningful ways.
Key Takeaways:
Purpose-driven businesses create lasting impact and build trust. Mindset is the foundation for successful decision-making. Authentic storytelling connects brands with their audience. Social media strategy must align with core business values. Resilience is essential for overcoming entrepreneurial challenges.
Website: https://www.greatestgood.com.au
Christmas Gift Guide: https://www.greatestgood.com.au/australian-christmas-gift-guide
Shopping: https://www.greatestgood.com.au/shop.html
Donating: https://www.greatestgood.com.au/donate.html
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In this episode of The Social Circus, I dive into the power of goal setting and why starting with a big number can make all the difference in achieving success. As we approach the end of the year, it's natural to feel a bit drained, especially with the summer holidays and Christmas looming for those of us in Australia. But this is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and think about what we want to achieve in the coming year. I guide listeners through actionable steps on how to set big, meaningful goals for 2025, break them down into manageable pieces, and keep the motivation alive even as the festive season kicks in. So grab your pen and paper, because I've got loads of tips to help you enter the new year with a clear and inspiring plan!
Key TakeawaysStart with a big, ambitious goal to inspire action.Break goals down into achievable steps for clarity.Avoid burnout by aligning your goals with your energy cycles.Take advantage of end-of-year momentum to set intentions.Regularly review your progress to stay on track.Notable Quotes"Big goals inspire big action; don’t shy away from aiming high.""Breaking goals down doesn’t make them smaller—it makes them achievable.""Align your goals with your natural energy flow to avoid burnout.""End the year strong by setting a vision for the next.""Your progress is a journey; keep revisiting and refining."Digital Queens Mastermind
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In Episode 129 of The Social Circus, I'm diving into the year-end hustle and the exciting energy of November as we gear up for the big finale of 2024. I'll chat about the unique rhythm of December, especially for those of us in Australia preparing for the summer holidays. With December as a hectic month, November is our golden window to finish strong! I’ll also share a peek into my Digital Queen's VIP Party Week—an event that has grown into a highlight for my community, designed to get everyone energised and aligned with their goals for the coming year. Whether you're planning big things for your business in 2025 or just trying to squeeze in those final 2024 to-dos, there’s something in this episode for you.
Key TakeawaysNovember’s the Time: Use November to lock in 2024 goals.Plan for 2025 Now: Start shaping those ambitions.Celebrate Progress: Reflect on what’s worked this year.Engage Your Community: Events like VIP weeks boost connection.Make Time for Rest: Balance work with self-care as the year closes. -
In this episode, I dive into a heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Mel Stibbs, the founder of ADHD Village. We explore the unique challenges neurodivergent women face, especially in the business world, where typical structures and approaches don’t always fit. Mel opens up about her personal journey, from her late diagnosis of ADHD and autism to the drive to create a community where women can feel seen and supported. Together, we talk about how to balance the superpowers of ADHD—like creativity and drive—with the daily struggles, including organisation, emotional regulation, and overcoming stigma. Mel shares insights on the dangers of self-diagnosis, the rise of ADHD awareness on social media, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who understand you. This episode is an open, honest conversation aimed at inspiring and empowering neurodivergent women to embrace their strengths and create a business journey that truly works for them.
Key TakeawaysEmbrace your neurodivergent strengths, but recognise the challenges.Surround yourself with a supportive community that "gets" you.Avoid self-diagnosis and consult a professional if ADHD resonates.ADHD can amplify both creativity and overwhelm; find strategies.Advocate for acceptance—neurodivergence should be understood. -
In this episode, I sit down with Julie, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, to explore what sets this approach apart from traditional healthcare. We dive into the differences between a nurse practitioner and a general practitioner (GP), highlighting the unique blend of experience and advanced training that nurse practitioners bring to the table. Julie shares insights into the core principles of functional medicine—like addressing root causes rather than just symptoms—and how this approach can make a real difference for patients. Whether you're curious about alternative approaches or seeking a deeper understanding of healthcare options, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone wanting to take charge of their wellbeing.
Key TakeawaysFunctional medicine focuses on identifying root causes, not just treating symptoms.Nurse practitioners combine clinical experience with advanced training for holistic care.There are fewer than 3,000 nurse practitioners in Australia, making them a unique asset.Functional medicine emphasizes patient education and empowerment.Collaboration between medical professionals can lead to more personalised care.juliefarrelly.com.auhttps://www.facebook.com/juliefarrellyatAchieveOptimalHealthhttps://www.instagram.com/achieveoptimalhealth/
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In this episode, I sit down with the inspiring founder of Aijan Skincare to uncover the story behind her brand. We dive into her transition from the world of finance to the skincare industry, and why redefining ageing is at the core of her brand's mission. She shares her insights on the misconceptions surrounding skincare, the importance of trust, and what it means to create a product line that truly resonates with women. If you're curious about how skincare can empower you to age on your own terms, this conversation is packed with wisdom and actionable insights.
Key Takeaways:Transitioning industries can spark innovative ideas.Redefining societal norms around ageing is empowering.Trust is key in building a successful skincare brand.Skincare goes beyond appearance; it’s about vibrancy.Pursuing passion leads to rewarding entrepreneurial journeys.www.aijan.com@aijanskincare@age__isjuatanumber
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In today’s episode, I’m chatting with the wonderful Caryn from Firefly Graphics about something super important but often overlooked: inclusive design. If you’re like me and hadn’t even heard of this concept until recently, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Caryn and I dive into what inclusive design really means, why it matters for small businesses, and how it can create a more welcoming experience for your customers. Caryn shares practical tips and insights on how to incorporate inclusivity into your branding and design without it feeling overwhelming. Trust me, after this chat, you’ll see how these small changes can make a big impact on your business.
Key Takeaways:Inclusive design ensures that everyone feels welcome when interacting with your brand.Small businesses can make big strides with simple design changes.Accessibility should be a priority from the start—not an afterthought.Inclusive design helps expand your audience and deepen customer loyalty.Being proactive about inclusivity reflects well on your business values.
Notable Quotes:"Inclusive design isn't just about accessibility; it's about creating an experience where everyone feels valued.""Small changes in your design can make a world of difference for people who might otherwise struggle to engage with your brand.""The future of business lies in inclusivity—it's not just a trend, it's a necessity.""Don't wait until you're bigger to focus on inclusive design—start where you are and grow from there.""Inclusivity reflects the heart of your business—show your customers they belong."
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In this episode of The Social Circus, I dive into the importance of entering awards, especially for women in business. I reflect on my own experiences, sharing how I’ve gone from being a finalist several times to winning my first major award this year. It wasn’t an overnight success, and I discuss how persistence and believing in yourself are key ingredients. Many of us hesitate to put ourselves forward, thinking we’re not good enough, but I encourage you to challenge that mindset. Whether you're early in your journey or further along, entering awards can boost your confidence, visibility, and credibility in ways you may not expect!
Key Takeaways:Awards can significantly enhance your business’s credibility.It’s important to overcome the mindset of "not being good enough."Persistence is key in being recognised—many stumbles happen before success.Women, in particular, need to get better at promoting their achievements.Entering awards can open doors you may not even realise exist.Notable Quotes:"For every success story, there’s usually a couple of stumbles behind the scenes.""This year was my year, but it took a lot of effort to get here.""Women, especially, are really bad at tooting our own horn." -
In this episode of The Social Circus, I chat with the amazing Roslyn Thompson, founder of Cheerful Days Co. We dive deep into the idea of blending business growth with positivity and mindset strategies. Roslyn shares her journey of building a business that focuses on creating joyful work environments while also driving success. We discuss how social media plays a role in fostering connections, what it’s like to work with clients who share your values, and some practical steps to maintain balance as a business owner. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned entrepreneur, this episode is full of insights to help you grow your business with more joy and ease!
Key Takeaways:Prioritise joy in your business to boost productivity.Balance social media efforts with authentic connection.The importance of mindset in business success.Building relationships with aligned clients.Incorporate self-care practices into your business routine.
Notable Quotes:"Joy is a key ingredient to a thriving business – it’s not just about the numbers.""When you’re authentically yourself, the right clients will always find you.""Success doesn’t have to be stressful – it’s about finding your flow.""Mindset is everything – how you think impacts your entire business.""Social media is a tool, but connection is the heart of it."
https://www.cheerfuldaysco.au
https://www.instagram.com/cheerfuldaysco
https://www.linkedin.com/in/roslyn-thompson
https://www.facebook.com/cheerfuldaysco
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In this episode of The Social Circus, I chat with Ash Battye from Career Pursuit HR, and we dive deep into the world of human resources for small businesses. We cover everything from the common HR challenges that business owners face to how to build a strong and efficient team. Ash shares her top tips for creating a positive work culture and the importance of compliance. This episode is packed with valuable insights for any business owner who’s looking to streamline their HR processes and ensure their team thrives. Tune in for an episode full of practical, no-nonsense advice, and plenty of encouragement!
Key Takeaways:HR compliance is crucial for business success and avoiding legal headaches.Creating a positive work culture can boost employee morale and retention.Streamlining your HR processes will save you time and reduce stress.Hiring the right people starts with a clear job description and strong recruitment strategy.Regular performance reviews help keep your team on track and motivated.https://www.instagram.com/careerpursuithr/https://www.facebook.com/careerpursuithr/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleighbattye/https://www.careerpursuit.com.au/
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In this episode, I sit down with Tania Carcenac, an inspiring entrepreneur, to talk about the rollercoaster that is running a business. We explore that familiar mix of excitement and fear, which Tania brilliantly coins as "terrified yet excited." We dig into her journey, touching on the moments when fear actually pushed her to make bold moves. Throughout our conversation, we explore how business owners can lean into their fears, turning them into a driving force for success. Tania’s honesty about the challenges makes this a relatable episode for any entrepreneur facing uncertainty. You’re sure to walk away with practical tips and plenty of inspiration.
Key Takeaways:Fear and excitement often coexist in entrepreneurship. Facing your fears head-on can drive business growth. It’s okay to be both terrified and excited—it’s part of the process. The key to overcoming fear is to take action, even when you're unsure. Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you.
Notable Quotes:"I’m terrified but excited all at the same time." "Fear can either paralyze you or push you forward." "Sometimes, taking that first step is all you need to unlock your potential." "The scariest moments in business often lead to the biggest breakthroughs." "Being both terrified and excited means you’re on the right track."
Website: https://taniacarcenac.com / Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tania.carcenac/ / facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniacarcenac.coaching / Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com.au/taniacarcenac/
The Midlife Makeover: A day of Style, Sass & Self Discoveryhttps://events.humanitix.com/the-midlife-makeover
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In this episode, I'm diving deep into the world of ChatGPT, the AI tool everyone seems to be buzzing about. We’ll explore what ChatGPT is, how it works, and why it’s relevant for small business owners. I'll walk you through the basics, break down the jargon, and share some practical tips on how you can start using AI to save time and enhance your business operations. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by the tech talk or just curious about what all the fuss is about, this episode is designed to be your easy-to-understand guide. Let’s turn that intimidation into inspiration and help you see how ChatGPT can be a powerful ally in your business toolkit!
Key TakeawaysChatGPT Demystified: Understand what ChatGPT is and how it works in simple terms.AI in Business: Learn how AI can streamline tasks and save time for small business owners.Practical Applications: Discover real-world ways to implement ChatGPT in your business.Overcoming Tech Fears: Tips on how to embrace AI without feeling overwhelmed.Staying Ahead: Why now is the time to start exploring AI for your business.Notable Quotes"AI isn’t just for the tech giants—small business owners can benefit immensely too!""Think of ChatGPT as your digital assistant, ready to help with the tasks that take up too much of your time.""The key is to start small; even a little AI can go a long way in boosting your business.""Don’t be intimidated by the tech—embrace it, and watch how it transforms your workday.""ChatGPT is like having a brainstorming partner who never gets tired or runs out of ideas." - Näytä enemmän
