The Business Connector Grows Your Business

Want to be part of The Kent Business Show?🎟️ Get your ticket to The Kent Business Show, Kent’s largest business networking event, and connect with businesses from across the county:👉 https://www.kentbusinessshow.co.uk/events/kent-business-show🎙️ Want to be on the show? Apply to feature on the podcast and share your business story with Kent’s business community:👉 https://www.kentbusinessshow.co.uk/live-podcastsIf you’ve ever felt like you’re figuring business out on your own, this conversation will resonate.Rachael is joined by Jane Martin — known across Kent as “the Business Connector” and a Membership Advisor for the Federation of Small Businesses. Together, they unpack what real business support looks like beyond surface-level networking.What this episode coversWhy connection is a strategic growth tool — not just a social activityThe real challenges small businesses face, from late payments to legal worriesHow community reduces isolation and increases confidenceWhy paying yourself is critical to long-term sustainabilityThe power of lobbying and how small businesses influence policyThe shift from employment to freelance models — and what it means for business ownersJane shares her own journey from hospitality consultant to trusted connector, and explains how supporting thousands of small businesses has shaped her perspective on resilience, leadership and growth.This episode is practical, honest and encouraging — especially for founders who want to scale sustainably without feeling overwhelmed.Who this is forKent-based business ownersFreelancers and sole tradersBusiness owners considering scalingAnyone feeling isolated in their entrepreneurial journeyConnect with Jane Martin[Insert Jane’s website or contact link][Insert FSB membership link]Chapters00:00 Are You Using Your Network Well?01:48 Meet Jane Martin: The Business Connector02:24 How Jane Became “The Connector”04:02 The Real Value: Introductions That Grow05:15 Making Networking Easier for Everyone07:16 Turning Events Into Real Community10:21 What FSB Actually Helps With12:00 Late Payments, Cashflow and Support13:21 The £400 Story: Why We Joined16:23 Hospitality Consulting and Fresh Eyes18:31 Pay Yourself First (And Pay Staff)22:15 Money Stress, Shame and Finding Momentum26:04 Sponsor: Your Video Team41:25 Scaling Challenges + What’s Next