KEY TAKEAWAYS

Growth begins only when you move from a dependent state to an independent mindset by accepting 100% responsibility for your outcomes.

Business owners must differentiate between support, operational, and strategic tasks to avoid the trap of "peeling spuds" when they should be leading.

Most criticism from others is actually a reflection of their own internal struggles, making it easier to ignore the noise and stay focused on your vision.

Public speaking and sales are the two most critical skills for any young professional looking to fast-track their career in a digital-heavy world.

Taking time for silence and internal reflection is often the missing ingredient in solving complex business and life problems.

QUOTES

The moment you take responsibility, things will happen; until you do, you are going to hide into nothing.

Successful people become successful in the time that other people waste.

If you start paying attention to the noise at the edges, it disperses the focus on the centre.

You do not build relationships through screens; real relationships come from being face-to-face, eyeball to eyeball.

Money is just an outcome of doing something that becomes successful.

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

We dive deep into the "scary as hell" moments, like the morning 99% of his revenue vanished and how he fought back through pure persistence. Brad shares the "ruthless" reality of building a team that actually cares, why he still jumps in the van to clear his head, and the exact steps needed to step off the tools and start acting like a businessman. If you’re feeling stuck in the day-to-day firefighting of your trade, this is the wake-up call you need to stop winging it and start scaling.

Key Takeaways

The Tools Bottleneck: You can’t grow a business while you’re wiring sockets all day; leveraging other people's time is the only way to break the ceiling.

Speed Wins: Returning quotes in 10 minutes rather than 2 days is often the difference between winning a massive contract or losing it.

Incentivize Results: Moving from hourly pay to pay-per-job creates engineers who treat the business like their own.

Resilience is Non-Negotiable: When you lose your biggest client, you either shut the phone down or get on LinkedIn and hunt—there is no middle ground.

Integrity Over Flash: Success isn't about Ferraris; it’s about being a man of your word and treating your team like family.

Direct Quotes

"You can wire a socket up, but apart from that, you ain't got a scooby."

"I put four grand into this business... we probably hit 10 million this financial year."

"There’s nothing better than proving someone wrong. It’s the greatest feeling ever."

"I had two options: I could have turned around or I could say... I’m going to find a way."

"If you haven't got the bottle to do that, you're going to be on the tools for the rest of your life."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Invest in your own development: Neil paid his own way through his initial Dale Carnegie public speaking courses. He emphasizes that true growth requires taking individual responsibility and investing your own resources rather than waiting for an employer to do it for you.

Embrace the uncomfortable: A foundational mantra for Neil, borrowed from Albert Gray's The Common Denominator of Success, is that successful people willingly choose to do the things that failures dislike doing.

Sales is a process of listening: Rather than simply pushing a product onto a prospect, effective selling is a questioning process designed to actively listen to the customer and elicit their true needs.

Delegation is required for scale: To grow a business beyond a sole operator, founders must transition from working in the business to working on the business. This requires hiring strategic experts, delegating tasks, and trusting your team enough to let them safely fail and learn.

Great teams require diverse skills: The three essential components of a highly successful team include an intuitive visionary, an organized process planner to execute the ideas, and an empathetic culture builder to maintain harmony.

BEST MOMENTS

"Successful people do the things that failures don't like to do."

"Two parties come together, there's a sale going on. Either you sell them on listening to you, or they sell you on going away."

"If you look at anything that's sustainable, it's got a great education policy behind it."

"You've got to break this dependent cycle and get more people recognizing that if they take responsibility and invest in themselves, they will get the rewards."

"I consider  to be my master's level intern that's sitting by my side answering all the questions that I can't answer."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Embrace change and take calculated risks: Leaving a comfortable job to explore unknown territories, like moving from the US to Saudi Arabia to help build a university newsroom, can lead to unprecedented career growth.

Take control of your personal brand: If you do not actively update your personal brand and tell your own story, others will write it for you based on outdated information.

Be a language architect: Effective communication requires building a solid foundation of messaging rather than just using generic words, ensuring your core values are clear across all platforms.

Avoid AI-generated fluff: While AI is a powerful tool for writing, it often produces generic corporate jargon, meaning you must inject your unique perspective and specific facts to stand out.

Maintain consistency across channels: Your core message should remain identical whether it is on a website, a press release, or a podcast, even if the delivery format changes.

BEST MOMENTS

"Sometimes you just have to go where the journey takes you."

"If you're not always talking and updating people, your personal brand whatever you're doing is stuck in somebody else's mind and it is incorrect. And they make up your own history for you and your own future."

"If you don't change, your brain I think kind of can go to mush."

"Language is almost like a system... you find these key stories, these key things that will be interesting to your audience, and you build your messaging from there."

"AI won't know your personal stories; it will only know what it can find on the internet."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS 

Early struggles with severe dyslexia made James immune to the fear of failure. Because he was already used to failing in traditional academic settings, he had nothing holding him back from taking risks in business.

Instead of letting his inability to read and write stop him, James hired a Personal Assistant at just 18 years old. By outsourcing his weaknesses, he freed himself up to focus entirely on his strengths—sales, networking, and growth.

Business is fundamentally about people. If you lack certain technical skills, lean heavily into authenticity, relationship-building, and trust. People buy from people they like and trust.

There is a clear evolution from being a "solopreneur" (doing the mechanical work), to an "owner-preneur" (managing the business and team), to an "invest-preneur" (buying businesses and providing stewardship while others run the day-to-day). To scale, you must let go of the tools.

Don't rely on the government or external economic conditions to dictate your success. Build a highly profitable business by delivering exceptional, "surprise and delight" customer experiences that keep your pipeline full regardless of the broader economy.

BEST MOMENTS

"When you're used to failing as much as I did from say six years old to say 14... failure was my friend. It was more prominent in my life than most other things. So I just tried everything and anything."

"We are on sale. As business people, we are salespeople of us every single day. I soon learned that my superpower was to be very social and be very capable of meeting new people."

"A brand is just about promise. More than anything, that is what defines what your brand is. You say you're going to clean windows, they're going to be clean... and they're going to be at a price point. That is the promise."

"They've got to have their own set of scars themselves. You can't just have your scars told to them, they need to feel them... you have got an environment where they are allowed to make mistakes."

"You need to be your own economy. You need to make sure your company is making profit to afford these turnover taxes that are crippling companies."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Many business owners mistakenly equate their bank balance with profit, forgetting upcoming liabilities like VAT and Corporation Tax.

There is a critical difference between a P&L statement and a cash flow statement; profit is theoretical until the cash is actually collected from the customer.

Every business is made of the same basic parts. To fix a business, you must identify and repair only the malfunctioning "part".

To protect margins, business owners must have a clear minimum profit target for every project and be willing to walk away if it isn’t met.

Tracking cash flow on a rolling 13-week basis is the most effective way to prevent crises and make proactive decisions.

BEST MOMENTS

"It's very easy to get into the trap... of making decisions based on how much money's in the bank account... and forgetting that we have upcoming liabilities."

"We're just tax collectors for the government, basically. The VAT and the corporation tax—it was never really our money in the first place."

"Financial statements were designed by accountants, for accountants... no wonder it’s easier to just look at your bank account."

"You can't cut your way to growth. You can cut your way to improved margins, but there’s a limit to how far that can go."

"For every small business that's struggling, there is one that's doing tremendously well... the way we choose to see the world isn't out of our control."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week. I

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Christina highlights that life often requires us to recreate ourselves multiple times, and dropping out of traditional paths (like university) can lead to discovering true passions, such as social media and marketing.

Christina introduces her ‘COGH’ model for overcoming adversity: 

Community (having the right people around you)

Vision (owning where you want to go)

Reality (understanding your current situation)

Happy (finding joy in the journey).

True success in business and personal branding comes from removing the ‘mask’ and being the same person in every environment, from a boardroom pitch to a 2 AM reflection in the mirror.

In marketing, focus 80% on educational, inspirational, and motivational content, and only 20% on direct sales to build a loyal audience.

When faced with a prognosis that she might never walk again, Christina focused on the ‘possible’ rather than the ‘unlikely’, using the same mental tools that helped her succeed in business to navigate her physical recovery.

BEST MOMENTS

"You get to a point in life and you realise that you've recreated yourself way too many times."

"Success to me is the freedom to be who I am every hour of the day."

"The mind only knows what you tell it."

"Unlikely means it’s possible, and I’m going to focus there."

"Everything happens for you, not to you."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Lead from the Front: Transitioning into management requires setting the standard and maintaining clear expectations across the board.

The Power of Discipline: Motivation is fleeting, but discipline is what gets the job done on tough days. Sticking to non-negotiables and pushing through difficult moments ultimately generates the motivation needed to keep moving forward.

Always Have a Backup Plan: In operations, unexpected challenges are inevitable. Staying calm under pressure and ensuring you always have a Plan B and Plan C allows the team to pivot smoothly without panicking.

Embrace Accountability: A blame culture is toxic to any growing business. Fostering an environment where team members own up to mistakes and use them as active learning opportunities is vital for long-term organizational success.

Prioritize Your Own Well-being: You cannot effectively lead a team or support your family if you are burnt out. Committing to your own health and happiness acts like putting on your own oxygen mask first, equipping you to be a stronger, more present leader and parent.

BEST MOMENTS

"Leaders have to lead. As in, whether I'm in the office or on the field, I've always led from the front."

"Discipline creates motivation when all motivation isn't there... once you've done what you should be doing, that motivates you to continue."

"If you make a mistake, be accountable for it. I think in order for you to grow, you have to understand where you made the mistake and be accountable for it."

"I didn't start as a window cleaner, I started actually as a personal trainer... but I think definitely those fundamentals and the foundations that I learned, work ethic, the simple things I learned in the gym, definitely shaped the way I was going to go about window cleaning."

"I just want to inspire people. I think that's a major thing for me this year is like, be like an inspiration if you can."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges of the trade industry is crucial for growth and emotional support.

Success in the trade business hinges on seven key areas: vision, marketing, sales, operations, finance, team building, and scaling up.

Understanding and regularly monitoring your P&L, cash flow, and balance sheets is the lifeblood of any successful company.

It’s essential to move beyond simply paying bills and focus on producing profit after all expenses and stakeholders are paid.

While information is readily available, the key to success lies in taking deliberate, strategic action and having accountability for those actions.

BEST MOMENTS

"Running a business can get lonely. Sometimes you don't need more hustle, you need more clarity, structure, and the right people around you."

"The number one rule or the number one purpose of a business is to make money and produce profit."

"The finances are the blood of the company. You have to get that first—for investment, for paying bills, for growing."

"Build your business to sell, whether you're going to sell or not, because then it gives you options."

"Action is literally the enemy of procrastination, and it will move you forward."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Personal branding is often about transitioning from being ‘hidden’ to being ‘seen’, often providing the confidence and clarity that people are truly buying into.

A successful personal brand must be consistent across multiple digital platforms, including LinkedIn, Instagram, websites, and even search results.

Your personal brand sits at the top and evolves with you, while business activities and joint ventures may come and go beneath it.

Effective personal branding requires an intentional strategy (who you are and what you want to be known for) before jumping into social media content.

Storytelling is a crucial element of personal branding that allows for a relational experience, moving beyond generic AI-generated content.

BEST MOMENTS

"While you think that you're offering transformation and personal branding, ultimately what people are buying into is confidence."

"Dubai is the home of reinvention. And more than that, presence and brand is very much Emirates standards."

"Your personal brand never stays still. It always evolves. You evolve as a person."

"Visibility is your responsibility. No one else is going to talk about you than you."

"It's the small things done consistently that makes you memorable, not one big thing."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A bad hire can cost a company up to 200% of that employee's salary when factoring in recruitment fees, training, onboarding, and lost productivity.

Beyond defining the perfect candidate, companies should create a ‘red line’ list of traits and qualifications they absolutely do not want to protect the company culture.

A successful hiring process should include at least three stages: a line manager interview, a ‘peer-to-peer interview’ to assess team fit, and a final meeting with the CEO or founder.

For professionals seeking growth, being visible, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn, and quantifying your specific impact (outcomes over responsibilities) is essential for triggering promotions.

Companies should strive to be in a state of constant recruitment rather than ‘turning the tap on’ only when a desperate need arises, allowing them to hire for potential rather than just immediate relief.

BEST MOMENTS

"The riches are in the niches. You just can't be a generalist; you've got to zero in on one micro area."

"I think you have to be delusional. You have to be delusional about what you can achieve and you've got to pitch into existence what you dream."

"I've always been a big believer in you either win or you learn."

"AI is excellent at repeatable tasks. The big differentiator is being able to talk about your impact, being able to demonstrate that you can make decisions, assess risks."

"Your LinkedIn profile should be treated as a professional digital CV."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Beth shares how she transitioned from dental nursing to managing a Dubai skyscraper by being willing to learn on the job and projecting confidence even when she was still learning basic office skills.

In property management, silence creates anxiety. Beth emphasises the importance of constant updates, even if there is no new news, to build trust with residents during building emergencies.

Successful property managers must be adept at juggling multiple high-priority tasks simultaneously while recognising their limits to ensure service standards don't slip.

Beth discusses how her management style evolved through personality profiling (like the ‘Surrounded by Idiots’ workshop), moving from a ‘High Red’ dominant style to a more empathetic ‘High Yellow’ approach.

The industry has become significantly more complex with the Building Safety Act, requiring managers to be constantly learning and leveraging new technologies to track compliance and safety.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was faking it till I made it. I didn't know how to use computers, I didn't know how to file anything, but I just seemed to get away with it."

"Over-communicating is definitely going to be better than under-communication... that's where you build up the trust with your residents."

"I like to be a medium fish in a big pond. I like to be somebody, but I also like to be surrounded by a lot of other somebodies."

"On a Sunday evening, none of my team are feeling sick about going to work the next day. As long as we have that, then we're happy."

"The more times you say no, the more successful you can be, because then you focus on the stuff that really matters." 

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Despite the rapid acceleration of AI and digital communication, business remains fundamentally relationship-based. Real trust is earned through face-to-face interaction and consistent touchpoints.

The 2008 financial crisis forced a strategic shift from consumer leasing to a B2B focus. Embracing constraints can lead to discovering a more profitable and sustainable niche.

Maintaining a team for 10-15 years requires more than just high salaries; it’s about structure, clear progression paths, and small, consistent acts of recognition that make employees feel valued.

Selling a business is a multi-year process. Paul suggests a five-year window to refine systems, clean up credit control, and ensure the business is attractive to potential acquirers.

Success in 2026 requires consistent habits, such as regular strategy sessions out of the office and staying ‘present’ in the business while leveraging AI to handle operational heavy lifting.

BEST MOMENTS

"No trust, no transaction."

"You've got to celebrate the wins, little and often, just making sure you take stock, look at what's worked well."

"As business owners, quite often the best ideas or best solutions to problems come when you're taking yourself out [of the office]."

"You've got to be the best version of yourself, you need to work on yourself massively before the business."

"If you're in a hole, the only way to deal with that is to try and grow out of it."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Successful marketing isn't about a single tool; it’s about the synergy between the ‘instruments’ (tools like Google Ads or AI), the ‘music’ (your messaging and tone), and the ‘conductor’ (strategy).

Exceptional customer experience is defined by doing the unexpected. Small, innovative shifts in how you treat customers can lead to massive increases in referrals and lifetime value.

Small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) have a distinct advantage in their ability to pivot quickly. By leveraging AI to accelerate research, they can outmaneuver slow-moving corporate competitors.

A brand isn't just a logo; it’s the internal culture of the business. When employees are aligned with the brand's values, they naturally deliver the ‘operating standards’ that keep customers coming back.

To avoid the ‘Red Ocean’ of cutthroat price wars, businesses must identify their ‘sweet spot’ - the intersection of what they do best and what the market uniquely needs.

BEST MOMENTS

"Marketing shouldn’t be a cost; it should be a profit driver, a growth driver, contributing actively in the fiscal year and beyond".

"The instruments are the tools, the music you play is the messaging and the tonality of it all. I need to be the conductor, not the instrument player".

"Customer experience is what your customers feel and actually experience. It’s not what you say; it’s how you say it. It’s not what you do; it’s how you do it".

"Brand exists because what it does is it helps attract the right people to your business. That’s customers, but it’s also talent".

"A customer that strongly recommends your business typically creates eight times their own lifetime value through recommendation".

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Don't view AI as a simple chatbot; view it as a tool that allows you to see data patterns, customer needs, and business inefficiencies that are invisible to the naked eye.

Start by augmenting yourself (speeding up your own tasks), then augmenting your team (standardising processes), and finally reaching transformation (redefining revenue capacity and customer experience).

To get the best results from AI, you must feed it your ‘company DNA’, your specific tone of voice, ethos, and unique industry insights, rather than asking for generic content.

We all have a limited ‘budget’ of attention each day. Success comes from automating or avoiding distractions so you can apply your focus to high-impact, creative decisions.

2026 is a ‘compression year’ where technological advancement is moving at an unprecedented pace. Those who experiment and implement now will be ‘above the fog’ while others are left struggling to take off.

BEST MOMENTS

"Use AI like special glasses, spectral night vision, to see things that other people couldn't see before."

"You're not limited by technology; you're limited by creativity."

"If you're a free user, you're the product. When you pay, you're the partner."

"It’s more elegant to avoid than to say no. Guard your attention; it’s your most valuable currency."

"It’s not what you don't know that gets you; it’s what you think you know that isn't true."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Success comes from owning your unique blend of experiences, skills, and personality quirks. 

In an era of AI-generated content and endless ads, consumers crave authentic human connection. Building trust through a personal brand is more effective than shouting the loudest.

True accountability isn't about being told off; it's about having a support system or community that validates your progress and keeps you moving toward your goals when motivation wanes.

Avoid ‘throwing spaghetti at the wall’. Use Claire's ‘Vivid Framework’ (Vision, Identity, Visibility, Innovation, Data) to ensure every marketing action aligns with your core business goals and customer needs.

Don’t ignore the numbers. Regularly reviewing simple metrics, like engagement or consistency, can reveal what’s actually working, allowing you to pivot before you waste resources on ineffective strategies.

BEST MOMENTS

"You can only see the journey when you join the dots backwards."

"Success comes from your own mix of experiences, of the trial and error, and also of what makes you unique."

"You don't ask somebody to marry you on day one... [that's] probably not the most effective strategy."

"All data is good data. I think sometimes people don't want to look at it because the data can be stuff you don't want to hear, but actually that's the good stuff to hear."

"If you can really own who you are and what you want that life to be... take that stand aside from what is considered the 'safer route'."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Bones are not just static structures; they are living, breathing organs similar to the heart and lungs. Just like muscles, they require specific stimuli to remain healthy and can decondition without it.

There is a neurological connection between bone density and muscle strength. If your bones (the chassis) are weak, your central nervous system limits your muscle output to prevent self-injury. Strengthening the bone removes this governor, allowing for greater muscle gains.

To trigger new bone growth, the skeletal system needs to experience forces of roughly 4x body weight. This is nearly impossible to do safely in a traditional gym, but is the core principle behind OsteoStrong’s robotic loading technology.

The decisions you make regarding your health in your 40s and 50s dictate the quality of your life in your 70s and 80s. Training now is about ensuring you have the mobility to put your own luggage in the overhead locker during your final decade.

Biohacking and training provide the stimulus for growth, but the actual repair happens during rest. Without adequate sleep and protein intake, the body cannot utilise the stimulus to build denser bone and stronger tissue.

BEST MOMENTS

"I learned that bones are living, breathing organs, like your heart or your lungs."

"No trust, no transaction."

"Thinking about the last 10 years of your life, we should all be training like athletes for that quantum decade."

"No one plans to be in a mobility scooter. Some plan ‘not’ to be in one."

"Your bone strength becomes your new limitation, athletes realise the only way they can break through that barrier is to improve their bone strength."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Life's challenges, such as personal losses, can serve as catalysts for change. Embracing these moments can lead to significant personal and professional growth, encouraging individuals to pursue their passions and take calculated risks.

Poker teaches valuable life skills such as patience, discipline, and strategic thinking. These skills can be applied in business settings, helping individuals navigate high-stakes situations and make informed decisions.

Recognising when to cut losses is crucial in both poker and business. It's important to assess situations objectively and make decisions that minimise potential losses rather than stubbornly holding on to failing ventures.

Maintaining a calm and composed mindset is essential for effective decision-making. Practicing mindfulness can help individuals respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively, especially in high-pressure situations.

Engaging in activities like poker can boost confidence and assertiveness, particularly among women. By creating inclusive environments and encouraging participation, individuals can develop skills that translate into professional success and personal growth.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think sometimes it's the cracks that let the light in, right? It's those moments where you think, well, actually, what is important to me?"

"Poker teaches you about patience and discipline, statistics and picking your moments."

"I realized I've got aces and there was no way I was folding."

"It's about authenticity. I absolutely would have had that what if, and I probably wouldn't have forgiven myself."

"You don't need to gamble to take the value from poker."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Achieving and maintaining weight loss requires a fundamental change in identity. Individuals must see themselves as someone who engages in healthy behaviours, such as exercising regularly and making mindful food choices.

Weight management fundamentally revolves around the principle of calories in versus calories out. To lose weight, one must consume fewer calories than they burn, but this equation is influenced by various factors, including metabolism, activity level, and the thermic effect of food.

High protein intake is crucial for weight loss and satiety. Increasing protein levels can help individuals feel fuller and more satisfied, making it easier to adhere to a calorie deficit.

Motivation can get someone started on their fitness journey, but discipline is what sustains long-term success. Building discipline involves saying no to unhealthy choices and developing habits that align with one's health goals.

Finding the right caloric intake for weight loss is often a process of trial and error. It's essential to monitor how one feels and responds to different calorie levels, adjusting as necessary to ensure sustainable progress.

BEST MOMENTS

"Calories in, calories out, is a very simplistic way of describing a quite complex equation that is always going on. But it is absolutely 100% true."

"The perception of hunger is very different to one person to the next."

"If you don't believe that I'm someone that gets 10,000 steps a day, or hits the gym three days a week, you'll never have that six-pack."

"I like to be quite aggressive in the first two weeks. If we can get someone to lose five, six pounds in the first two or three weeks, their level of trust has just gone through the roof."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The journey to becoming a mindset coach began with a desire to escape a challenging childhood. Engaging in acting provided an early outlet for self-expression and exploration, which later translated into a passion for helping others change their thinking.

Exposure to books like "The Power of Positive Thinking" and "The Power of the Subconscious Mind" ignited a belief in the potential to control one's thoughts and emotions, leading to significant personal and professional achievements, including becoming the youngest cruise director in the world.

The importance of experiences over material possessions is emphasised. True fulfillment comes from meaningful experiences and relationships rather than simply accumulating wealth or status.

A structured approach called "Engage" was developed, consisting of six steps: Evolve, Nirvana, Grace, Action, Grit, and Education. This framework guides individuals in transforming their mindset and achieving their goals.

Emphasising the need for resilience, the discussion highlights that challenges are a natural part of life. Viewing setbacks as feedback rather than failures is crucial for personal growth and maintaining a positive mindset.

BEST MOMENTS

"I came to the understanding that you can become anything you want if you can control your thinking and your emotions."

"I decided to believe in myself, and it was the most apparent thing ever, because I made up in my head that I was going to prove him wrong."

"If you're a miserable person, it doesn't matter where you go in the world; you can go to Mexico on holiday, and you'll still be miserable."

"It's really funny that something when you're a child can shape the rest of your life."

"The key to success is to live in what I call a state of grace and grace is the system to do this."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The journey into tech began in the teenage years, sparked by experiences with early internet technologies like dial-up and MSN Messenger, leading to the creation of a first website at age 16.

The initial fascination with technology shifted from coding to understanding user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design, emphasising the importance of improving user journeys and processes.

After graduating, the decision was made to start a business immediately, driven by a desire for independence and entrepreneurship, leading to the founding of a web development agency with friends.

The agency has worked with the NHS for over a decade, focusing on automating manual processes to improve efficiency, such as developing booking platforms and reporting tools for training hubs.

BEST MOMENTS

"I remember at the age of 16, I built my first website. What fascinated me was actually not the code, it was actually the experience."

"When one door closes, another one opens. I always kind of look at it in the sense that when one door closes, another one opens."

"If we can automate that, can we make more space for the human element to grow?"

"The reality is that the bits that are being automated are the bits that are taking the admin and heavy processes that are causing the pain for the businesses."

"We went in and we said, look, why does it have to be done manually? Like you're a small team. Capacity is massively a big problem in the NHS."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Sales is often undervalued as a profession, yet it is essential for business success. The focus should be on helping people buy and solving their problems rather than just selling a product.

Establishing deep, meaningful relationships with clients is crucial. Long-term partnerships can lead to sustained business success, as demonstrated by the speaker's experience with clients over many years.

A strong value proposition is vital for differentiating a business in a competitive market. It should clearly communicate the unique benefits offered to customers and align with their needs and desires.

In times of economic difficulty, businesses can still thrive by focusing on quick wins, understanding customer needs, and being willing to let go of clients who do not align with their value.

Building a culture of trust and providing opportunities for impact can significantly enhance employee satisfaction and retention.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think the sad thing, Brad, is that sales is still, even today, not seen as a profession."

"Without sales, you don't have a business."

"The biggest way to stand out is to be different."

"It's amazing how often you've tried it, but I've often said to clients or prospects, 'This is a great opportunity. I can't actually deliver it for you.'"

"You need to have your hard line. You need to be able to say no."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Physically writing down goals, rather than typing them, creates a direct link to the subconscious, helping to prioritize and focus on what truly matters. This practice can lead to achieving significant milestones over time.

Facing financial challenges, such as nearing bankruptcy, can serve as a catalyst for personal growth and resilience. Learning from tough experiences and maintaining relationships can provide support during difficult times.

Establishing a solid financial foundation involves participating in company pension schemes, securing life insurance, and considering income protection. These steps are crucial for long-term financial security.

Adopting a mindset of abundance and believing in one's potential can lead to greater achievements. Writing goals as if they have already been accomplished can create a sense of urgency and motivation to reach those goals.

Focusing on traditional investment strategies, such as buying and holding assets, is essential for building wealth over time. Avoiding impulsive spending and prioritising savings can lead to financial freedom and a more secure future.

BEST MOMENTS

"Don't give up. There's always somebody. You need to do what you need to do."

"The writing down gives your subconscious the instruction you've already achieved it."

"You should really be saving about 15% of your monthly wage."

"If you cut your cloth, don't go chasing everybody else."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Focus on Afters: When communicating with potential clients, emphasise the "afters" – the benefits and outcomes they will experience after working with you, rather than just listing credentials or services.

• Experience and Outcomes Matter: It's essential to provide both a positive customer experience and tangible outcomes. Clients want to enjoy the process while also achieving their goals, such as increased sales or saved time.

• Use Stories to Sell: Instead of relying solely on facts and credentials, share relatable stories that illustrate how you've helped others achieve their desired outcomes. This approach makes your message more engaging and memorable.

• Tailor Proposals to Client Needs: When creating proposals, ask clients what they want in terms of format, length, and content. This customisation can help you stand out from competitors who may not take the time to understand client preferences.

• Simplify Next Steps: Always include clear instructions on how clients can accept your proposal and what the next steps will be. This clarity can prevent confusion and increase the likelihood of a positive response.

BEST MOMENTS

"What they care about, the afters. In other words, after you, why are they better off?"

"Facts tell, stories sell."

"If you want other people to really latch on to what you do, you've got to let them know why they will be better off after you."

"Your job is to enhance the condition of the other person."

"If you want to see someone again at the end, you don't say, When shall we meet again? Change it to, How soon can we meet again?" 

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Ben's primary drive from a young age was to avoid the traditional corporate grind, a desire that sparked his interest in business and investing.

He used his university education strategically to live abroad (Florida, Spain, Canada), which he credits with opening his mind and challenging his pre-conceived notions.

Ben created a streamlined, medium-term investing strategy focused on a few minutes of daily action to maintain a consistent income stream without sacrificing his time.

He highlights that while compounding builds wealth, negative habits and stress (like trying to "day trade") compound into burnout and financial losses, illustrating his "either way you pay" mantra.

Ben argues that conventional retirement saving (like a 3% yielding pension) is a "guaranteed loss" against real inflation, and learning to invest for higher double-digit returns is essential to growing wealth.

BEST MOMENTS

"It was always a way to not get into a 9-to-5 career. I was so desperate to not have that lifestyle that I saw so many people around me hating."

"In life, there's always a cost to every action and inaction, and you always just choosing which price you'd prefer to pay. Either way, you pay."

"Getting into like day trading and expecting to be good is like kicking a football for the first time and then expecting to play in the Premier League the next weekend."

"If you're making 3% and you learn something to get to 15%, that's five times more you're making per year. It's an unbelievable amount."

"The times of crashes and recessions, that's when the most millionaires are made. Knowing what to do when there is a crash is the most valuable thing that you could possibly have."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Establishing effective systems within a business is crucial for ensuring consistency and reliability in operations. Systems allow businesses to produce repeatable and predictable outcomes, which is essential for building customer trust and satisfaction.

Business owners should have a basic understanding of financial metrics such as profit and loss statements and balance sheets. This knowledge helps in making informed decisions about pricing, cash flow management, and overall business health.

A successful business must focus on understanding and serving its customers. This involves developing strategies for customer attraction, conversion, and retention, ensuring that the business meets the needs and expectations of its target audience.

Curiosity and a desire for progression are vital traits for entrepreneurs. Being open to new ideas and willing to challenge the status quo can lead to innovative solutions and improvements in business practices.

Business owners should have a clear strategy for their future, whether it involves exiting the business or evolving it to better serve their lifestyle and goals. Planning for the future helps prevent stagnation and ensures that the business aligns with personal aspirations.

BEST MOMENTS

"A business should serve your life, not own it or disrupt it or ruin it."

"If you can tell someone with confidence and conviction why what you're doing matters, it's much more believable."

"Systems grow businesses, people run systems."

"If you're doing something you know you can do well, all you've done is just created yourself a job."

"What you're not changing, you're choosing."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Company culture is significantly influenced by leadership, but it can also be shaped by team members. A strong culture requires clear communication of values and behaviours, allowing everyone in the organisation to contribute positively.

Trust is a complex concept that leaders must extend generously to their team members. While it takes time to build, it can be fragile, and leaders should communicate openly about any issues to maintain a healthy trust dynamic.

Personal and professional growth should not be limited to climbing the corporate ladder. Mastery in one's current role or exploring new interests can lead to fulfilment and engagement. Leaders should encourage this mindset among their teams.

Leaders often get caught in the daily grind, making it essential to carve out time for reflection and strategic thinking. This practice can help organisations adapt to changing cultures and improve overall employee satisfaction.

Having mentors or advisors can help individuals navigate the overwhelming amount of information available today. Engaging with someone who has experience can provide valuable insights and guidance for personal and professional development.

BEST MOMENTS

"If your leadership aren't kind of pulling in the same direction, aren't aligned in what the message is, then sadly, the knock-on effect is that the culture is affected for everybody."

"What the fuck? Like, how can that be that we spend so much of our time in work and it can be so poor for so many people?"

"Trust takes years to build, but moments to break. I just think I don't like the moments to break bit."

"I think it's important for the leaders to be the ones that extend [trust] first and to extend it generously."

"We forget how freaking wonderful it is to get better at shit because we are not quite as deliberate about it as we were in our early years."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A healthy body and mind are essential for service-based business owners to scale their businesses effectively and enjoy their lives. Prioritising personal health can lead to better decision-making and overall well-being.

Both athletes and executives share a commonality in their mindset and resilience. Understanding and accepting pain as part of the process is crucial for growth and overcoming challenges.

Incorporating strength training into any fitness routine is vital for maintaining muscle mass, bone health, and overall physical function. It should be tailored to individual capabilities and needs.

Protein is a critical nutrient for muscle repair and growth. The amount needed varies based on body composition and activity level, with leaner individuals requiring more protein. Whole food sources like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy are recommended over processed protein products.

Mastering the six pillars - exercise and movement, nutrition and hydration, sleep, mindset, stress management, and recovery - can significantly enhance overall health and quality of life. Each pillar plays a crucial role in achieving optimal well-being.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you believe you can do it, you will. If you don't, you won't."

"Pain is perception. Pain to one person is life. If you can't accept that every bit of pain you feel is bad, you will never progress."

"Strength training is essential. If you don't do it, you'll lose muscle mass, and your bones will degrade."

"You can't do any of that if you haven't got a healthy body and mind."

"The average person will only ever contract 30% to 40% of their max muscular units. Elite athletes can tap into a greater percentage."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Effective leadership involves nurturing and developing team members, allowing them to excel and potentially surpass the leader. This approach fosters a supportive environment that contributes to overall business success.

A strong company culture is essential for success and should be cultivated from the top down. Leaders must lead by example and ensure that the culture aligns with both employee needs and customer expectations.

Business plans should be grounded in reality, outlining clear steps to achieve ambitious goals. It's crucial to break down objectives into manageable milestones and ensure that the team has the resources and support needed to execute the plan.

Maintaining a strong focus on customer needs is vital for business growth. As companies scale, they must avoid losing sight of their customers, as this can lead to a decline in service quality and customer satisfaction.

Businesses must be willing to adapt and evolve their strategies based on market conditions and internal capabilities. This includes being open to feedback, learning from failures, and adjusting plans to ensure sustainable growth.

BEST MOMENTS

"I've always felt that if people want something and they push hard enough, they don't wait to be told or asked, they grab it."

"It's easier to be forgiven afterwards if you've done something or you've done too much than it is to ask permission in the first place."

"The leader of the business is central to a good culture. The leader has to lead by example."

"If you turn left or turn right, the price difference is huge, but the services for it isn't worth that."

"The UK is the hardest place to do business, I think, by some way."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Success in the challenging life of an entrepreneur is consistently linked to a relentless drive, passion, curiosity, and a "never say die" attitude, even when faced with zero initial returns.

LinkedIn acts as an instant trust-builder and personal story platform, allowing people to get to know you quickly. A strong, consistent personal brand is becoming increasingly crucial for visibility, especially as AI-driven search evolves.

The era of traditional SEO and Google search results is evolving, with AI tools like ChatGPT and Google's AI overview changing how people find information. To remain visible, content needs to be highly detailed, helpful, and optimized for both traditional search and AI, including creative methods like competitor list-style posts.

The most important elements of a compelling LinkedIn profile are an easily visible professional headshot, a headline that clearly states your value, a compelling "About" section that tells your story, and utilizing the "Featured" media section for links, testimonials, and high-performing posts.

To boost visibility and engagement, be active on the platform. LinkedIn's algorithm often rewards five to fifteen minutes of commenting on others' posts both before and after you publish your own content, as this signals that you are a genuine and active user.

BEST MOMENTS

“Honestly, I just kind of fell into it because I was obsessed with the internet back in the day. I literally went to Google and I typed in, 'How to make money online?'”

"I don't want someone to tell me that I have to punch a clock from 8 to 5 every day. I want to be free and make my own money and not have to rely on someone else."

"We almost have to have that delusional mindset, that, 'Yeah, these are my giant goals and you might think I'm crazy, but I'm going after it, you know, and I'm not going to stop.'"

"People work with people they know, like, and trust. That's just human nature, right? I'm telling everyone this when I train sellers: you have to be known, liked, and trusted, period."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Successful entrepreneurs often possess an innate ability to think outside the box and remain tenacious. This mindset drives them to continuously seek new opportunities and solutions, even in challenging circumstances.

Building a strong team is crucial for delivering on promises made to clients. A business's success often hinges on its ability to execute effectively, which requires having the right people in place to support operations.

The finance industry has evolved significantly, particularly with the rise of alternative funding options. Entrepreneurs should be aware of various financing avenues and the importance of maintaining a good credit rating, both personally and for their business.

When considering selling a business, it's essential to have a clear plan and to prepare the business for sale by ensuring it has strong systems, processes, and a capable team in place. Engaging with advisors can help navigate this complex process.

Selling a business can be an emotionally taxing experience, akin to significant life events such as moving or divorce. It's important to be prepared for the emotional ramifications and to seek support during the transition.

BEST MOMENTS

"I always say when I sell this one, I'm off to the beach. But funny enough, I was on holiday, and I was like, that's my next opportunity."

"If you're not moving forward, you're actually moving. If you're stagnant, you're moving backwards."

"You have to be a little bit of an outside the box thinker. You have to always be thinking about the next thing."

"It's all about people. That connection. Yeah. Relationships."

"You might have a business that somebody wants to get their hands on and it's an eye-watering amount of money."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Emphasising the importance of having a problem-solving attitude, the journey from garage door installation to floor care highlights how transferable skills can lead to innovative solutions in different industries.

A significant health scare at a young age served as a catalyst for personal growth and a shift in perspective, leading to a more proactive approach to life and business.

The importance of communication, trust, and relationship-building in business is underscored, with a focus on understanding client needs and delivering value through effective solutions.

The commitment to ongoing personal and professional development is evident, with a focus on learning from failures and using feedback to improve business practices and product offerings.

Establishing clear goals and regularly reviewing them is crucial for success. Utilising techniques like daily affirmations and strategic planning helps maintain focus and drive towards long-term objectives.

BEST MOMENTS

"I love being given a problem. I know it sounds absolutely ludicrous, but give me a problem and I'll find a way to solve it. That's just in my DNA."

"If that deal hasn't come across the line, we haven't done our job properly. Have we not explained the product properly? Have we not listened to the client properly?"

"Our motto is to coat the world. It's not ambitious at all, right? I see Nordic Chem playing a massive part in the commercial cleaning sector to solve problems."

"You mentioned before that you were sort of like working early mornings, late evenings. Is that still a thing? Do you still need that?"

"It's about solving those problems so that you can actually go chemical free, and you haven't got to haemorrhage hours doing monotonous tasks."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The transition from a career in engineering and the Navy to personal development highlights the importance of recognising one's strengths and seeking opportunities for growth. The realisation that public speaking could be mastered through training led to a significant career shift.

The exploration of various personality profiling systems, such as those based on Carl Jung's theories, emphasises the value of understanding different personality types in team dynamics. This understanding can help identify strengths and gaps within a team.

A successful team requires a clear vision (the "what"), mission (the "how"), and purpose (the "why"). These elements must be aligned to ensure that all team members are working towards the same goals and understand their roles in achieving them.

Trusting and investing in team members is crucial for growth. Training and allowing individuals to learn from their mistakes fosters a culture of responsibility and empowerment, which is essential for a thriving business.

Entrepreneurs must transition from working in their business to working on their business. This involves delegating operational tasks to focus on strategic growth, which can be achieved by building a capable team and creating systems that allow for scalability.

BEST MOMENTS

"Successful people do the things that failures don't like to do. It's where do you put your time and energy?"

"It wasn't that I couldn't; I'd never been shown how to. Everybody I meet who says they can't do something, I say, look, it's not you can't do it. You've not yet been shown how to do it."

"If you're running a business and you've got 24 to 30 people, you've got to find a way of bringing in somebody to run it for you."

"It's almost like all your previous experiences have been a template laid out for you, but the moment you said, 'I need to learn this,' you started a new journey."

"If you have those three, like a three-legged stool, you've got stability. If one of them's missing, it's going to fall over."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Sandra transitioned from recruitment to HR, starting with a background in psychology and gaining experience in various roles, including significant positions at O2 and Starbucks, where she served on the management board at a young age.

Recent changes in employment legislation and generational expectations are reshaping the HR landscape, presenting challenges for business owners who must navigate these evolving requirements while managing their operations.

Maintaining a strong company culture is crucial, especially when considering employment versus subcontracting. A cohesive team fosters collaboration and investment in personal development, which can be lost with a subcontracting model.

The concept of work-life balance is viewed as a fluid integration of work and personal life, where passion for work can coexist with personal fulfilment. Engaging in activities like walking can provide mental clarity and enhance creativity.

Regular reflection on experiences and outcomes is vital for personal and professional growth. This practice helps identify areas for improvement and prevents complacency, ensuring that time is used effectively and purposefully.

BEST MOMENTS

"There are so many changes in terms of technology that brings with it some implications from a HR perspective."

"I do think it's putting people off recruiting."

"I think it's very challenging... it does bring a lot of responsibility on the employer."

"I think sometimes it's almost a battle between your head and your heart."

"I can't bear the thought of wasting time."

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week

Working On It is the podcast for service-based founders who want to scale without burning out. Each episode brings you honest conversations with experts, operators, and mentors - the same kind of people who’ve helped shape successful businesses from the inside out. We dive into the systems, strategies, and habits that drive performance - and show you how to build a company that works without you always having to be there. It’s about clarity, leadership, and reclaiming control - of your time, your team, and your next chapter. 

If you're focused on building a business that runs without you - and a life that works because of you - then you're in the right place

HOST BIO

Brad Staines is a founder in the thick of it - but by design, not by default. As the face of Aquamark Cleaning, he’s built a multi-million-pound operation with 30+ team members, strong systems, and a culture that gives people space to grow.

He’s still involved in the business a couple of days a week - but only doing the parts he genuinely enjoys: building relationships, growing the brand, spending time with the team, and spotting new opportunities. The day-to-day grind? That’s been handed over to a structure that runs without constant firefighting.

Brad’s also found his rhythm outside of business - with a deep commitment to physical and mental training. Whether it’s strength work, early morning runs, or cold plunges, he’s a believer that how you show up for yourself shapes how you show up as a leader.

Working On It is where he brings it all together - growth, grit, and getting better every week