Episodes

  • Join us for an inspiring conversation with Allana Ford, the founder and CEO of Muse Pilates, who has built an incredible fitness empire across Australia in just five years. Since opening her first studio in December 2019, Allana has grown Muse Pilates to 13 locations with nearly 100 team members - and she's just getting started.

    In this conversation with Paula, Allana openly shares her leadership journey and the essential business insights that drove her successful scaling story - from building high-performing teams to successfully launching into franchising.

    In this episode, Allana shares her entrepreneurial journey with refreshing honesty, including:

    How a personal setback led to spotting a gap in the marketThe real challenges of scaling while raising young childrenKey turning points in her business growthRecent exciting developments including franchising and online education

    If you're looking to scale your business or dream of building something bigger than yourself, this episode is packed with practical insights.

    Allana gets candid about:

    The critical decisions that accelerated her growthHow she's built and maintained quality across multiple locationsHer approach to building high-performing teamsThe realities of protecting your energy while scaling

    You'll especially love this episode if you're:

    A business owner looking to scaleInterested in franchising opportunitiesBalancing business growth with family lifeLooking for practical leadership insights

    Don't miss this honest conversation about what it really takes to build a multi-million dollar business while maintaining high standards and a great culture.

    Highlights

    [00:01:33] From startup to scale: The Muse Pilates origin story
    [03:35] Critical business scaling lessons from the early years
    [05:30] Leadership strategies while managing rapid growth
    [08:06] Essential systems for scaling from 2 to 13 studios
    [12:14] Team building and hiring processes evolution
    [21:52] Strategic business expansion through franchising
    [27:50] Scaling through online business diversification
    [30:55] Key leadership decisions that accelerated growth

    Connect With Allana

    Instagram @theallanaford and Tiktok @allana.ford
    Website: musepilates.com.au and spicypilates.com

    Connect with Paula

    Website:https://paulamaidens.com/
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/paulamaidensconsulting/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams
    LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulamaidens/

    Keen to explore working with Paula? >> Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

  • In this episode, Paula shares her thoughts on the debate between time management and energy management. Paula reflects on a recent discussion she heard about the shift from time management being the gold standard to energy management taking the lead and explores how both concepts are crucial for productivity and well-being, ultimately arguing that they complement each other rather than compete.

    Highlights

    Effectively managing time creates the space needed for energy management practices.Without time awareness, maximising energy becomes challenging.Balancing time and energy is essential for achieving high performance.Each person has different brain thinking styles, affecting how they approach tasks and manage time and energy.Recognising your thinking patterns can enhance your efficiency and enjoyment in business.Learn a little about different brain thinking styles and their impact on productivity.

    Resources Mentioned:

    "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen R. Covey
    "The Power of Full Engagement" by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz

    Connect with Paula:

    Website:https://paulamaidens.com/
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/paulamaidensconsulting/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams
    LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulamaidens/

    Explore Working with Paula:

    Check out & Book a 90 Minute Strategic Clarity Session with Paula >> Here

    Not sure what you need? Book a FREE call to discuss what's right for you >> Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

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  • In this episode of The Big Dreams Great Teams Podcast, Paula sits down with Dr. Jodi Richardson, a leading expert on anxiety and mental health, to dive deep into the complexities of anxiety, stress management, and burnout. Dr. Jodi shares her personal journey and professional insights, offering practical tools and strategies for managing anxiety in both personal and professional contexts.

    You'll gain a clear understanding of the difference between normal and problematic anxiety, and learn effective techniques to manage in-the-moment anxiety and reduce overall stress. They also discuss how to recognize the signs of burnout and the critical connection between anxiety and burnout.

    If you're a business owner or manager, Dr. Jodi provides valuable advice on supporting team members struggling with anxiety. You'll learn how to approach mental health conversations in the workplace, recognize the signs of burnout in yourself and others, and provide meaningful support for a more resilient team.

    Highlights:

    Understanding the difference between normal vs. problematic anxietyPractical strategies for managing anxiety and reducing stress in the momentWhy avoidance and anxiety are often linkedAddressing mental health in the workplace and supporting team members with anxietyKey signs you're nearing burnout and how to manage it before it impacts your mental health


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Anxiety and Burnout

    02:48 Understanding Anxiety: Definitions and Symptoms

    06:11 Normal vs. Problematic Anxiety

    09:05 Practical Strategies for Managing Anxiety

    12:04 Supporting Others with Anxiety in the Workplace

    18:52 The Connection Between Anxiety and Burnout

    30:00 The Importance of Connection for Mental Health

    Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson:

    Website: https://drjodirichardson.com/

    Books:https://drjodirichardson.com/shop/

    Hello Anxiety Podcast https://podfollow.com/1585382774

    Enquiries:[email protected]

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJodiRichardson/

    LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jodi-richardson-15589240/

    Connect with Paula:

    Website:https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams


  • In this episode of The Big Dreams Great Teams Podcast, Paula dives deep into the strategic activities you can prioritise in Q4 to wrap up 2024 on a high note and set your business and team up for success in 2025.

    From celebrating wins and reflecting on lessons learned to checking in on your team's well-being, this episode is packed with actionable insights for small business owners.

    Paula shares practical tips for incorporating team feedback, recognition, and incentives into your year-end planning.

    Plus, she explores how these activities will minimise your potential staff turnover, by boosting your team morale and create a proactive, high-performing team who are excited for the year ahead.

    Don't skip this episode!

    Highlights

    Strategic activities to prioritise in Q4 to set your business and team up for success in 2025Why it’s critical to recognise your team's hard work and how learning and reflection activities will boost your culture and proactivity in 2025Whether end-of-year Team Member check-ins are necessary (or if they can be rolled to the new year).Simple ways to incorporate incentives into End Of Year celebrations like Christmas parties in an online or in person wayWhich of these to choose or skip if you are feeling BUSY (or maybe just super tired!) as you run to the finish line of 2024

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Year-End Strategies

    04:22 Capacity Planning and Resource Allocation

    08:09 The Importance of Performance Reviews

    10:58 Goal Setting for the New Year

    12:46 Team Reflection and Celebrating Wins

    15:33 Feedback and Team Check-Ins

    19:18 Recognition, Incentives, and Rewards

    23:31 Strategic Planning for 2025

    LINKS:

    Check out & Book a 90 Minute Strategic Clarity Session with Paula >> Here

    Not sure what you need? Book a FREE call to discuss what's right for you >> Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

    CONNECT with Paula on Socials:

    Website:https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

  • In this episode of The Big Dreams Great Teams Podcast, we dive into the strategies that can help small business owners turn challenging days into opportunities for growth and innovation and ultimately make business more profitable and sustainable.

    Paula is joined by special guest Peta Serras, founder of Professional Babe, who shares her extensive entrepreneurial journey and insights into profitability, email marketing, and business automation.

    We discuss the importance of setting up businesses for sustainability, particularly through effective onboarding processes and the use of email marketing as a powerful tool for engagement and sales.

    Peta shares her 'bad day business model' concept to build a resilient and profitable business and we explore the role of AI in streamlining business operations, team management and business strategies.

    Dive in to hear the transformative power of business automation and how this can help you to keep your team costs low and lean.

    What You’ll Learn:

    Effective Email Marketing: Discover how to leverage email marketing to communicate with your team and clients during tough times, ensuring clarity and collaboration.Smart Business Automation: Learn how implementing business automation tools can streamline your operations, allowing you to focus on strategic growth rather than daily chaos.Team Management Techniques: Practical team management techniques to foster a supportive environment.Building a Resilient Business Model: Understand how to create a 'bad day' business model that prepares you for unexpected challenges and maintains your momentum.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Peta Serres and Her Journey

    03:02 The Importance of Profitability and Streamlining

    05:52 Email Marketing: A Game Changer for Businesses

    08:55 Onboarding and Customer Experience Automation

    11:55 Building a Bad Day Business Model

    14:51 The Role of AI in Business Efficiency

    18:01 Identifying Opportunities for Automation

    21:02 Behind the Scenes: Peta's Team and Operations

    23:52 Key Takeaways and Final Advice

    CONNECT with Peta:

    Website — https://www.professionalbabe.com/

    Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/professionalbabe/

    Give Good Email — https://www.professionalbabe.com/give-good-email/

    CONNECT with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

    Explore working with Paula Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

  • In this episode of The Big Dreams Great Teams Podcast, we're diving into one of the most crucial aspects of building a strong and loyal team—rewarding employees. As your small business grows, choosing the right remuneration model can be a game-changer for attracting and retaining top talent. From salary-based pay to commission structures and staff incentive schemes, we’ll cover the simplest and most effective ways to reward your team and keep them motivated.

    Join me, Paula Maidens, as I walk you through the most common pay models that small businesses like yours are using today—including salary-based pay, hourly wages, commission-based structures, and performance bonuses. I’ll also touch on more advanced incentive-based remuneration models and when they might make sense for your business. Tune in for real-world examples from both Australian and global companies, and learn how these models can help you create a high-performing team without complicating your payroll.

    Whether you're hiring your first employee or scaling your team, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you choose the right approach for rewarding your staff effectively!

    In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

    The key differences between salary-based, commission-based, and performance-based pay models.Real-world examples of businesses using these pay structures to grow their teams.Why staff incentive schemes are more than just a perk—they're essential for employee motivation and retention.Simple tips for implementing a pay model that suits your business needs and budget.How to avoid common pitfalls when choosing a remuneration model for your small business.

    Takeaways: Rewarding your employees is more than just paying a salary—it's about creating a staff incentive schemes that drives performance and builds a loyal, motivated team. Listen to this episode to discover the best ways to implement pay models that work for your small business, without overcomplicating the process!

    Chapters

    00:00 Understanding Pay Structures in Business

    03:06 Exploring Salary-Based Remuneration

    06:07 Hourly Wage Model Explained

    08:51 Commission-Based Pay: Incentivizing Sales

    12:05 Performance-Based Bonuses: Rewarding Achievements

    17:47 Incentive-Based Remuneration: Flexibility in Rewards

    22:53 Complex Models: Profit Sharing and Equity

    30:09 Choosing the Right Pay Structure

    Explore working with Paula:

    Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

    Connect with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

  • In this episode of The Big Dreams Great Teams Podcast, host Paula Maidens dives into the five critical leadership habits that CEOs of small businesses need to break in order to scale successfully.

    As your business grows, the leadership strategies that worked in the early days often become roadblocks to further success. Paula explores common pitfalls such as expecting employees to work at the same speed as the CEO, hiring for comfort rather than business needs, and promoting based on tenure.

    Packed with practical advice, real-life examples, and insights on how to shift your mindset, this episode is essential listening for small business CEOs looking to elevate their leadership and grow their teams effectively.

    Tune in to discover how breaking these leadership habits can help you build a stronger, more scalable business.

    Highlights

    Stop thinking, I'll tell them once and then they should just do it.Context creates clarity in communication.You can't expect everybody to work as fast as you do.Your job as a leader is to build a cohesive team.Hire for skills and capabilities, not for comfort or familiarity.Loyalty should not be the sole reason for promotions.Comfort in hiring can limit business growth.Leadership requires letting go of old habits.Stretching yourself is essential for business growth.Your business will only grow to the extent you're willing to be uncomfortable.

    Chapters

    00:00 Elevating Leadership: Key Traps to Avoid

    06:12 Building a Diverse and Effective Team

    12:31 The Importance of Challenging Comfort Zones

    Explore working with Paula

    Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

    Connect with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams











  • In this episode, Paula reveals five proven strategies to measure and optimise your team’s productivity. With real-world examples, she demonstrates how increasing team productivity leads directly to higher profitability and greater financial success for your business.

    If you’re a small business owner committed to growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you quickly identify areas where your team can improve and drive tangible gains in efficiency and profit.

    Highlights

    How to create a clear roadmap to success for your team with self-tracking, defined goals, and KPIs.The hidden links between high-quality work, rework costs, and how they impact your profitability.The often-overlooked power of team collaboration, and how to measure its direct impact on your bottom line.The unnoticed opportunity cost of disengaged employees, and how their lack of initiative could be limiting your profits.

    Every successful small business should prioritise productivity—tune in to discover how to transform your team’s performance and boost your financial results!

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Productivity in Small Businesses
    06:16 Chapter 2: The Impact of Quality Work on Profitability
    09:54 Chapter 3: Timely Delivery: A Key to Increased Revenue
    12:08 Chapter 4: Team Collaboration: Eliminating Bottlenecks and Boosting Efficiency
    15:07 Chapter 5: The Power of Employee Engagement in Driving Profitability
    22:01 Conclusion: The Link Between Productivity and Profitability

    Explore Working With Paula:

    Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

    Connect with Paula:

    Website:https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

  • Jane McFadden, an entrepreneur, former psychologist, author, neurodiversity specialist, and neuroscientist, shares her personal experience and academic knowledge on ADHD, entrepreneurship, and business.

    She discusses her journey from traditional psychology to starting her own psychology company (now the largest in Australia), and the challenges she faced in the early years as a neurodivergent individual.

    Jane talks about the importance of understanding neurodivergent individuals and breaking the stigma surrounding autism and ADHD.

    She shares her experiences with managing a team and the difficulties she faces in small talk, performance management and prioritizing tasks.

    Dive in to hear this open, raw and real conversation where Paula and Jane discuss neurotypical versus neurodivergent traits and the challenges and strengths of being an entrepreneur with ADHD and in particular, the unique perspectives and abilities of neurodivergent entrepreneurs overall.

    Highlights

    Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with ADHD and autism, may struggle in traditional work settings and with consistency in tasksUnderstanding and accepting neurodivergent individuals is crucial in breaking the stigma surrounding autism and ADHD.Neurodivergent individuals may have unique strengths, such as intense focus and attention to detail, that can contribute to their success in specific areas.Self-awareness and self-diagnosis are important for individuals with ADHD, even if they choose not to pursue a formal diagnosis.Being aware of how your brain works and understanding the needs of your team and family members is essential for creating an inclusive environment.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background of Jane McFadden

    05:29 Starting Body and Mind Online: Challenges and Early Years

    12:43 Managing Staff and Overcoming Struggles

    18:10 Understanding Autism and ADHD: Language and Awareness

    29:09 The Expertise and Challenges of Being an ADHD Entrepreneur

    30:05 The Benefits of Entrepreneurship for Neurodivergent Individuals

    32:08 Navigating Team Management and Small Talk

    36:44 The Highs and Lows of ADHD and Entrepreneurship

    39:34 Finding the Right Balance and Prioritizing Tasks

    44:47 The Importance of Hiring Thinkers

    49:26 The Power of Self-Awareness and Inclusion


    Connect with Jane

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

    Website www.adhdmums.com.au

    Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/adhd-mums/id1686843092


    Connect with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

  • In today’s episode, Paula shares her #1 philosophy in business and life and that is… the power of choice. In this personal share, she opens up about how this applies to various aspects of her life and business and how this belief is empowering and stress relieving!

    Paula shares personal examples of how she has applied this philosophy including closing her yoga studio during the pandemic and making numerous changes in her multiple businesses over the years.

    She also explores common situations where entrepreneurs may feel stuck and offers insights on how to approach them with a mindset of choice.


    Highlights

    Having a choice does not dismiss the feelings or discomfort we feel when things aren’t going the way we want them to.Recognizing our power to choose can be empowering and stress-relieving.Feeling stuck often comes from forgetting that we have a choice.When faced with a situation that is not ideal, we can choose to accept it, change it, or make a decision later.Making choices consciously and strategically will lead to positive outcomes and personal growth.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction: The Philosophy of Choice

    01:25 The Power of Choice in Various Areas of Life

    06:26 Personal Example: Choosing to Close a Business

    13:29 Common Situations: Feeling Stuck and Making Choices

    20:39 The Relief and Empowerment of Recognizing Your Choices


    LINKS:

    Explore working with Paula

    Book a Dream Team Discovery Call


    CONNECT with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

  • In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of Team Events and how to build High Performing Teams with the incredible Mykel Dixon - a jazz musician, award-winning speaker, award-winning author and recognised authority and professional speaker for Fortune 500 and ASX200 listed companies.

    He shares his expert insights on engaging participants and creating transformative experiences at team events. Starting with a clear purpose through to prioritising connection over content, Myke’s approach ensures that every event becomes an opportunity for meaningful interactions and lasting memories.

    Discover how you can design events that foster vulnerability, authenticity, and genuine connections. Whether you’re planning a team-building retreat or a company celebration, this episode will provide you with valuable takeaways to elevate your events and enhance your team's performance.

    Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more tips on creating impactful events and building high-performing teams!

    Highlights

    Start events with a clear purpose and set the right context to engage participants.Prioritise connection over content and create opportunities for people to connect with each other.Create a safe space for vulnerability and encourage authenticity.Events have the power to transform people's lives and create lasting memories.The purpose of events is to connect people to themselves and each other.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Myke Dixon

    07:03 The Importance of Connection at Events

    10:56 Creating a Safe Space for Vulnerability

    19:52 Designing Events with Purpose

    25:07 Overcoming Challenges in Event Planning

    32:25 The Power of Gifted Experiences

    CONNECT WITH MYKEL DIXON
    Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mykeldixon/
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mykeldixon
    Website: https://www.mykeldixon.com/

    CONNECT WITH PAULA
    Website:https://paulamaidens.com/
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/paulamaidensconsulting/
    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulamaidens/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

  • In this episode, Paula dives into the different types of subcontractors that are available, and in particular she compares hiring a Subcontracting Team to a Freelancer.

    She explains that while the terms are often used interchangeably, there are technical differences between the two and like all things, each different type has benefits and considerations to consider, to know what’s right for you.

    Paula compares the pros and cons of working with subcontractors, such as the potential for scaling up and accessing diverse expertise, as well as the cons of limited control and potential team turnover. She discusses flexibility and cost-effectiveness of working with freelancers, but also discusses the limitations of relying on a single individual.

    This episode will help you to work out which is right for you and what factors to keep in mind, including your stage of business, desired level of control, and specific project requirements.

    Highlights

    The key difference between Subcontractors and Freelancers including independent entities operating as individuals or companies with a team versus self-employed individuals who offer services to multiple clients without being tied to a particular company.The pros and cons of working with subcontractors that include the potential for scaling up and access to diverse expertise, but also limited control and potential team turnover.The pros and cons of working with Freelancers who can offer flexibility and cost-effectiveness, but are limited in capacity and individual skills and may be less reliable due to personal circumstances.How to know which is right for you - the key factors to consider including the stage of business, desired level of control, and specific project requirements.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Overview

    01:20 Defining Subcontractors and Freelancers

    06:26 Pros and Cons of Working with Subcontractors

    11:32 The Benefits of Hiring Freelancers

    19:27 Choosing the Right Option for Your Business


    LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING MASTERY™

    Learn more about Paula's HIRING MASTERY™ Method here.

    SAVE $ OFF HIRING MASTERY™

    Use coupon code PODCAST24 (at checkout) to get $300 off the upfront price. Use coupon code PODCAST24PP at checkout to get $50 off per month for the payment plan option.

    Learn more here: https://paulamaidens.com/hiringmastery/


    Connect with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams
























  • This episode addresses a commonly asked question which is How to Retain Employees. Paula discusses the elements to both Attract and Retain Loyal Employees and Team Members which to her, is much more than someone who just ‘stays’ and ‘shows up’ every day in your business.

    Paula starts by sharing what loyalty means to her and shares examples of how various employees have demonstrated that in her own businesses in the last 14 years, allowing you to reflect on what loyalty means to you.

    Paula then shares practical ways as an entrepreneur that you can ATTRACT and RETAIN loyal employees and team members starting with how you are showing up as the leader.

    Paula discusses the practical elements required to create a supportive work environment, lead by example, show appreciation, and support your team members to prioritise work-life balance which are all factors that LOYAL team members are looking for when they join a new business.

    Highlights

    Loyalty is more than how long you retain an employee in your business or the fact that they show up every day. It’s a deeper commitment to the team and the business.How to create a supportive work environment which is a crucial element for attracting and retaining loyal team members.The practical challenge of ‘leading by example’ as an entrepreneur in a small growing business.How being consistent in your actions and words helps build trust and loyalty in your team. The practical side of being able to prioritise work-life balance for your team and how being able to do this will contribute to an overall sense of loyalty.The importance of transparency, clarity, and realistic expectations when hiring and how this links to a long-term loyal team member.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction

    09:34 Creating a Supportive Work Environment

    13:08 Leading by Example and Consistency

    16:28 Showing Appreciation and Acknowledging Effort

    21:57 Prioritising Work-Life Balance

    27:04 Transparency, Clarity, and Realistic Expectations

    29:22 Conclusion

    Explore working with Paula

    Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

    Connect with Paula:

    Website:https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

  • In this episode, Paula Maidens addresses the importance of reference checks in the hiring process for small business owners. She shares unique insights into a candidate's past performance and work ethic, which you can gather from a reference check, including information that cannot be obtained through interviews or resumes.

    When conducted effectively, reference checks can confirm the accuracy of information, and provide a deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. Paula dives into exactly how to extract that information so you can uncover potential red flags well before someone has been offered the job or has been employed to work with you.

    This episode also addresses how to handle negative feedback received during reference checks and whether that means you shouldn’t hire the person into your business.

    Highlights

    Reference checks ARE an important step in the hiring process for small business owners and this episode explains why that is the case and how to make them an incredibly helpful step for you.How to conduct a Reference Check so that potential red flags are uncovered so you know in advance if the candidate is the right fit for your role.Tips for effective reference checks given the limited time you may have with the person.What to do if you get a negative reference check. Should you still hire? Does that make them a no? What to consider and further examine to know what to do.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Importance of Reference Checks

    01:28 Insights from Reference Checks

    04:32 Confirming Accuracy and Understanding Strengths and Weaknesses

    07:34 Tips for Effective Reference Checks

    12:35 Handling Negative Feedback in Reference Checks

    16:21 Conclusion and Invitation to Learn More

    LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING MASTERY™

    You can learn Paula’s HIRING MASTERY™ METHOD here.

    You can now get started at any time and join up to 3 months of group implementation calls for tailored guidance and support.

    SAVE $ OFF HIRING MASTERY™

    Use coupon code PODCAST24 (at checkout) to get $300 off the upfront price. Use coupon code PODCAST24PP at checkout to get $50 off each month for the payment plan option.

    *Coupon codes expire 31st Aug 2024.

    Learn more here: https://paulamaidens.com/hiringmastery/


    Connect with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

  • Welcome to our Client Lessons Series.

    These are short sharp episodes where Paula Maidens draws on her client coaching calls each week to share a key lesson, learning or tip in a way that is quick and easy for you to digest.

    Client Lesson Summary

    In this episode, Paula shares a personal lesson from the universe about the importance of delegation and recognising when to ask for help.

    Despite having the ability to update her own website, Paula found that doing so was not always the best use of her time. She recounts her experiences with two major website mishaps and the valuable lessons learned about efficiency, delegation, and the importance of pausing before diving into tasks.

    Key Takeaways:

    The Importance of Delegation: Just because you can do something doesn't mean you should. Recognising when to delegate can save time and improve outcomes.Learning from Mistakes: Paula shares two stories where her attempts to update her website led to more problems, highlighting the complexities of seemingly simple tasks.The Value of Pausing: Taking a moment to assess whether you should do something yourself or delegate it can prevent mistakes and inefficiencies.Balancing Excitement and Patience: Paula discusses how adrenaline and excitement can lead to impulsive decisions and the importance of channelling that energy into effective delegation.


    Explore working with Paula

    Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

    Connect with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams






  • In this episode, Paula Maidens discusses the difference between hiring a subcontractor and an employee. She addresses common assumptions and myths about each option and provides insights into the pros and cons of both.

    Paula covers the importance of considering three key factors: time, commitment, and control and offers insightful questions to help you assess what you need in relation to each of these areas to land on the right answer for you and your business.

    Highlights

    The key assumptions and myths that are made when it comes to subcontractors versus employees.Whether one model is more ‘flexible’ than the other and if one is better when you are starting out. Whether one arrangement is ‘easier’ than the other if it’s ‘not working out’.Why you should consider 3 key factors including Time, Commitment, and Control, and how to think about each of these to decide which is right for you.Things to consider with subcontractors include flexibility, training, other clients, their business goals and how this may affect your business in the long term.Things to consider with employees include the benefits of commitment, control and oversight, and why having a dedicated person in your business creating and following your processes can help you in the longer term.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction: Subcontractor vs. Employee

    03:10 Ending Relationships and Honoring Commitments

    09:07 Control: A Key Factor in Hiring

    10:53 Finding Clarity for the Right Hiring Model

    12:13 Hiring Mastery Method: A Program for Successful Hiring

    13:26 Conclusion and Call to Action


    LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING MASTERY™

    You can learn Paula’s HIRING MASTERY™ METHOD here.

    You can now get started at any time and join up to 3 months of group implementation calls for tailored guidance and support.

    SAVE $ OFF HIRING MASTERY™

    Use coupon code PODCAST24 (at checkout) to get $300 off the upfront price. Use coupon code PODCAST24PP at checkout to get $50 off each month for the payment plan option.

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    Learn more here: https://paulamaidens.com/hiringmastery/

    Connect with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

























  • Welcome to our brand new Client Lessons series.

    These are short sharp episodes where Paula Maidens draws on her client coaching calls each week to share a key lesson, learning or tip in a way that is quick and easy for you to digest.

    Client Lesson Summary

    The theme of this lesson is the importance of pausing and not reacting immediately to every urgent situation that arises. By finding the power of the pause, entrepreneurs and CEOs can make considered decisions and regain control of their time and priorities.

    The lesson provides strategies for determining the true urgency of a situation and resisting the urge to react immediately.

    Key Takeaways

    Not everything that seems urgent actually requires immediate attention.By pausing and assessing the true urgency of a situation, entrepreneurs and CEOs can make better decisions.Most problems can solve themselves or be handled by someone else if given time.Taking a pause allows the initial emotional impact of a situation to dissipate, leading to better clarity of thought.By resisting the urge to react immediately, individuals can regain control of their time and priorities.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Power of the Pause

    01:29 Making Considered Decisions

    02:28 Letting Problems Solve Themselves

    03:26 Clarity of Thought

    04:45 Regaining Control

    LINKS:

    Explore working with Paula

    Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

    Connect with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

  • In this episode, Paula Maidens discusses the stress that comes with having employees and provides practical tips and strategies to reduce that stress. She emphasises the importance of normalising the stress and reframing the mindset to view employees as an investment rather than just an expense.

    Paula also talks about the significance of effective communication, time management techniques, setting boundaries, and building a support system.

    Takeaways

    Feeling stressed when you have employees is completely normal and acknowledging it is the first step to managing it effectively.Reframe your mindset to view employees as an investment in your business's growth rather than just an expense.Effective communication, regular check-ins, and team meetings can prevent misunderstandings and reduce stress.Implement time management techniques and set boundaries to protect your time and prioritise tasks.Build a support system, including a coach or mentor, and a peer group where you can be vulnerable and discuss your stress.View your leadership journey as a continuous learning process and invest in the training and development of your team.Reducing your own stress and supporting your team's growth will create a positive culture and reduce overall stress in the business.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction: The Stress of Having Employees

    03:10 Chapter 1: Normalising the Stress

    05:03 Chapter 2: Reframing Your Mindset

    09:40 Chapter 3: Effective Communication

    11:39 Chapter 4: Time Management Techniques

    16:52 Chapter 5: Building a Support System

    20:10 Chapter 6: Continuous Learning and Development

    22:46 Chapter 7: Creating a Positive Culture

    Explore working with Paula

    Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

    Connect with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulamaidens/



  • Welcome to our new Client Lessons series.

    These are short sharp episodes where Paula Maidens draws on her client coaching calls each week to share a key lesson, learning or tip in a way that is quick and easy for you to digest.

    Client Lesson Summary

    In this episode, we discuss the critical considerations when hiring someone to deliver the same services you provide, meaning when you are hiring someone to do more of what you already do.

    This applies to every single business owner and business type, whether you are service-based, e-commerce, in person or remote… It's essential to decide and distinguish between tasks that must be standardised and what areas can vary or where creativity can flourish.

    Tune in to hear practical examples and tips on how to ensure your team maintains the quality and integrity of your brand while allowing room for individual expression.

    Key Points:

    Introduction (00:00 - 00:30)Understanding Standardisation vs. Creativity (00:30 - 01:00)Example 1: Yoga Studio (01:00 - 02:30)More examples in different industries (02:30 - 03:00)Considering the customer experience (03:00 - 04:00)The importance of avoiding assumptions (04:00 - 04:30).Conclusion & Summary of key takeaways (04:30 - 05:00)

    LINKS:

    Explore working with Paula

    Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

    Connect with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams

  • In this episode, Paula Maidens explores the necessity of team meetings and how to make them effective. She discusses the signs of unnecessary meetings, such as boredom and long durations, and highlights the importance of impactful and purposeful meetings.

    Paula talks about how meetings can foster the key elements required to have a ‘high performing team’ and provides tips for making meetings impactful, relevant, and motivating.

    Dive in to hear practical advice including how to plan your meetings in advance so that the right participants are present and participating.

    Highlights

    Unnecessary meetings can be identified by key signs including boredom, long meetings and lack of interest from participants.The benefits of Effective Team Meetings and how they will foster and encourage a high-performing teamClear steps you can take to make meetings impactful, relevant, and motivating including planning the meeting in advance, defining outcomes and ensuring only the right participants are present.Hear Paula’s P-O-P method (Purpose, Outcomes, Participation) and how this can be used for effective meeting preparation.Team bonding and whether to incorporate these into regular team meetings

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction: Are Team Meetings Really Necessary?

    03:20 Supporting Key Elements of a High-Performing Team

    05:40 Not All Meetings Are Made Equal

    07:08 Tips for Effective Meeting Planning

    11:21 The P-O-P Method for Meeting Preparation

    15:04 Focusing on Purpose, Outcomes, and Participation in Regular Team Meetings

    LINKS:

    Explore working with Paula: Book a Dream Team Discovery Call

    Connect with Paula:

    Website: https://paulamaidens.com/

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

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulamaidensbuildingawesometeams