PODCAST · business
The 5 Minute Business Boost®
by SAM HICKS
Podcast OverviewIn this weekly podcast, Sam shares real, practical insights on small business — from marketing and business development to what’s actually happening on the ground in regional Victoria.Expect honest conversations, simple strategies, and the occasional reality check to help you move your business forward.Show notes and resources are available with each episode via the Sam Hicks website.About SamSam Hicks is a small business advisor specialising in business development, marketing, and photography.Based in North East Victoria, she’s been running businesses since she was 18 and works closely with small business owners to simplify, focus, and grow.Her approach is grounded in real-world experience — both in business and through active involvement in community and regional initiatives.Work With SamIf you’re ready to take your business to the next level, you can w
-
139
Substack for Small Business: worth it or just another platform?
You may have heard of Substack, but what actually is it — and does it have any real value for small business owners?In this episode, Sam looks at how Substack combines blogging, email, podcasts and social discovery, who it could suit, and whether it’s worth adding to your marketing mix.Before you sign up for yet another platform, tune in and find out whether Substack could actually help you build a stronger audience — or just create more work.-------------------888--------------------------------------If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible..
-
138
Special Guest Series - Lets meet Mel from GIVIT ( Not for Profits )
In this episode of The 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam chats with Mel Peverill, Victorian Engagement Officer with GIVIT, to learn more about the organisation and the role it plays in connecting generosity with genuine community need.GIVIT is a national Australian not-for-profit that has been leading responsible donation management for more than 15 years. Its online platform connects people, businesses and community groups wanting to give with charities, councils and support services requesting specific goods and services for people experiencing hardship.Sam and Mel talk about how GIVIT works, why giving people exactly what they need matters, and how businesses and individuals can make their generosity count — particularly when communities are facing disaster, recovery or difficult times.If you wish to help or simply see what we have been chatting about visit https://givit.org.auIf you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
137
5 business lessons from Dolly Parton: building more than a business ( Business Development )
Dolly Parton was one of the world's most recognisable entertainers, but behind the rhinestones, music and humour was also an extraordinary businesswoman who understood branding, intellectual property, partnerships, tourism and the power of investing back into the community that helped shape her.In this special episode of The 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam looks beyond Dolly's music to explore five practical lessons small-business owners can take from the way she built her career and legacy. From refusing to give away the publishing rights to I Will Always Love You, to helping transform tourism in East Tennessee through Dollywood, Dolly's story is a fascinating example of knowing the value of what you create and remaining unmistakably yourself as you grow.We also explore Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, which began in her home county in 1995, inspired by her father who could not read or write, and grew into an international program delivering free books to children from birth to age five. It's a wonderful example of solving a real problem, removing barriers and building something capable of becoming much bigger than the person who started it.In memory of DollyDolly's family has asked those wishing to honour her memory to consider supporting Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in lieu of flowers.Donate to Dolly Parton's Imagination LibraryA fitting way to continue a remarkable legacy — helping put books into the hands of children.------------------------------------------888----------------------------------If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
136
Your time is inventory: stop giving it away ( Business Development )
If you run a service-based small business, your time is one of your most valuable assets — but how much of it are you accidentally giving away?In this episode of The 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam Hicks looks at the hidden cost of no-shows, unpaid advice, meetings that run overtime, endless “quick questions” and other small time leaks that can quietly add up to thousands of dollars each year.You'll also hear about three simple booking options — Google Calendar appointment scheduling, Calendly and Setmore — and why the most important question isn't necessarily “What does this software cost?” but “What is the problem costing my business?”In this episode:Why your available time should be treated like inventoryHow to calculate the real cost of lost or unpaid timeThe difference between deliberately giving your time and simply losing itHow booking systems, reminders and deposits can reduce no-showsWhy boundaries around meetings, quoting and free advice matterA simple five-day exercise to identify where your time is disappearingYour time is inventory. Make sure you're deciding what happens to it.If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
135
AI and Photography: It’s already in your Camera Bag ( Business Development )
AI is already changing photography — and not just through completely generated images.In this episode of The 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam looks at how AI is becoming embedded in the photography tools we already use, from iPhones and Photoshop to specialist platforms such as Magnific and online galleries like Zenfolio.Sam explores how AI can help with editing, image enhancement, culling, face recognition and workflow, as well as the questions worth asking before you add another subscription: what problem does it solve, is it already included in something you pay for, and are there tutorials to help you actually use it well?The goal isn’t to use more AI. It’s to choose the right tools to save time, improve your images and make your photography workflow a little smarter.If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
134
Guest Series - Kate from Zaza & Douglas ( Art and Business Development )
In this special guest episode of The 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam chats with artist and ceramicist Kate from Zaza & Douglas about the journey of turning creativity into a successful handmade business. From studying dance at the Victorian College of the Arts to travelling the world with Qantas and visiting some of the world's greatest galleries, Kate shares how each chapter of her life has shaped her artistic style and inspired her work.Discover how Kate creates deeply personal commissioned artworks by weaving together the stories, emotions and values of her clients with the symbolism found in Australian native plants and wildlife. She also shares the inspiration behind her expressive paintings, handcrafted ceramics and the importance of creating art that brings calm, connection and meaning into people's homes.Whether you're an artist, maker and or a small business owner, this episode is full of practical wisdom about backing yourself, putting your work out into the world and not being afraid to "try another table" if the first opportunity doesn't work out. It's an inspiring conversation about creativity, resilience and building a business by staying true to your passion.Zaza & Douglas works are available from the following art spaces :Mira MarysvilleGippsland Art GalleryYea Wetlands Discovery CentreShepparton Art MuseumOr Contact Zaza & Douglas directly via : email: [email protected] Mobile: 0407 017 694If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
133
I upgraded my webcam… and it changed more than just the picture ( Business Development )
If you spend a lot of time on Zoom, Teams or Google Meet, you may have wondered whether upgrading your webcam is actually worth the investment.In this week's episode of The 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam shares her experience upgrading from a basic HD 1080p webcam to the iContact Pro after delivering more online workshops, mentoring sessions and webinars.This isn't a technical review filled with camera specifications. It's a practical look at whether better video quality and natural eye contact can help build stronger relationships with clients online.Sam also shares where business owners should spend their money first before investing in premium camera equipment.In this episode you'll discover:• Why a $50 webcam was enough for years.• What changed as more of Sam's business moved online.• How the iContact Pro creates more natural eye contact during video meetings.• Whether an iPhone might already be the best camera you own.• The order you should upgrade your lighting, audio and camera equipment.The biggest lesson isn't about buying new technology it's about investing in equipment that supports the way your business has evolved.As always, this isn't about having the fanciest setup. It's about communicating better, building trust and making a stronger impression online.-----------------888-----------------If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
132
From Chatbot to Business assistant: 5 Chat GPT features every small business should be using ( Business Development )
Think ChatGPT is just for writing social media posts or emails? Think again.In this week's episode of The 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam explores five of the biggest new ChatGPT features that are changing the way small business owners can work.From setting reminders and monitoring important information to connecting your Google tools, creating dedicated business projects and exploring the new Codex capability, AI is rapidly evolving from a simple chatbot into a genuine business assistant.If you've been curious about what ChatGPT can actually do for your business beyond writing content, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can start using today.In this episode you'll discover: • How ChatGPT can remind you about important business tasks • Why AI can now monitor information instead of you constantly checking • How connecting Google Calendar, Drive and Gmail can save time • Why Projects make ChatGPT far more useful for ongoing work • What Codex is and why it's worth knowing about even if you can't write a single line of codeAs always, this isn't about replacing people it's about reducing repetitive tasks so you have more time to focus on your customers and growing your business.If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
131
From Clay to Customers: The 5 stages every small business should know ( Business / Product Development )
Have you ever wondered why some new products and services take off while others quietly disappear?In this episode of The 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam Hicks shares a simple five-stage framework that has helped some of the world's biggest brands develop successful products—and shows how small business owners can use exactly the same thinking.Drawing on personal stories from her early ceramics business, years working in tourism and regional marketing, and insights from the marketing classic New Products Management by Professors C. Merle Crawford and C. Anthony Di Benedetto, Sam translates an academic model into practical steps any business owner can use.You'll learn how to:• Spot opportunities your customers are already telling you about• Turn observations into new products or services• Test ideas before investing too much time or money• Develop and refine your offer with confidence• Launch new products without feeling overwhelmedWhether you're thinking about introducing a new menu item, workshop, tourism experience, online course or service, this episode will help you move from random ideas to a repeatable process.Your 5-Minute Business Boost challenge this week:Choose one idea that's been sitting in your notebook and work it through the five stages. You might just discover your next best-selling product.If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a review and share it with another small business owner.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
130
Repurpose like a pro: one piece of content. Ten opportunities. ( Marketing )
Creating content can feel like a full-time job, especially when you're running a small business or volunteering for a community group.But what if you didn't need to create more?In this episode, Sam shares one of the simplest marketing strategies that can save you hours every month: repurposing your content.Discover how one photo, one blog post or one event can become multiple pieces of content across your social media, website, newsletter, podcast, LinkedIn, grant applications and more.In this episode you'll learn:• Why creating more content isn't always the answer. • How one photo can become ten pieces of marketing. • The difference between repurposing content for businesses and community groups. • Practical ways to build a simple content library. • How AI can help you turn one idea into many without losing your own voice. • A simple question to ask every time you create something.Whether you're a small business owner, volunteer, committee member or simply trying to make your marketing easier, this episode will help you work smarter—not harder.Key takeawayBefore creating something new, ask yourself:"How many more times can I use this?"The answer might surprise you.Thanks for listening to The 5-Minute Business Boost®, where your next five-minute investment could make all the difference to your business.------------------------------------------------888---------------------------------------If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
129
Stop starting from scratch every time you use Gemini ( Business Development )
Are you using Google Gemini to write social media posts and emails?If so, you're only scratching the surface.In this week's episode of the 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam shares one of the most practical ways small business owners can save time with AI by using Gemini Gems.You'll also learn the difference between Gemini, Gems and NotebookLM—three Google AI tools that are often confused.In this episode you'll discover:The difference between Gemini, Gems and NotebookLM.Why repeating the same prompts every time is costing you time.How to create your first custom Gem in just a few minutes.What business documents to upload first.Better questions to ask AI that go beyond "write me a Facebook post."Why creating multiple Gems can give you your own team of AI assistants.A few important privacy considerations when using business information with AI.Whether you're just getting started with AI or you're already using Gemini every day, this episode will help you get more value from a tool you probably already have.This week's five-minute investment:Spend five minutes creating your first Gemini Gem. Teach it about your business, upload a few key documents and ask it to solve a real business problem instead of simply creating content.You might be surprised how quickly it becomes another member of your business team.--------------------888------------------------------------If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
128
The tipping point: what retail giants can teach small business (Business Development)
What can a fabric retailer and a barbecue chain teach small business owners?Quite a lot, actually.Inspired by recent commentary from Scott Phillips on the challenges facing Lincraft and Barbecues Galore, this episode explores what happens when customer behaviour changes, technology reshapes industries and business models reach a tipping point.In this episode, Sam discusses:• Why customers are always voting with their wallets• How small declines in sales can have a major impact on profitability • The difference between temporary setbacks and structural change • Why technology is influencing every industry, not just retail • How flexibility and diversification create resilience • The opportunities available to regional businesses in a digital worldSometimes the most valuable business lessons come from watching what happens to companies much larger than our own.The question is simple:Are you skating to where the puck is going, or are you still standing where it used to be?Thanks to Scott Phillips for the inspiration behind this episode and for highlighting the broader conversation around change, adaptation and the future of Australian business.----888-----If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
127
Food photography for smartphone users: 5 principles for better food photos ( Marketing & Photography )
People eat with their eyes first.In this episode of The 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam explores how small business owners can create better food photographs using nothing more than the smartphone already in their pocket.Whether you're a café owner, baker, winery, restaurant, market stallholder or food producer, great food photography doesn't require expensive equipment. It starts with understanding a few simple fundamentals.In this episode, Sam shares five practical principles that can dramatically improve your food images:• Light First • Clean Your Lens • Composition and Framing • Focus, Exposure and Portrait Mode • Styling and StorytellingYou'll also learn how artificial intelligence is now helping smartphone cameras capture better images through computational photography, automatic scene recognition and smart editing tools.Most importantly, you'll discover why technology can enhance a photo, but creativity, storytelling and good photography fundamentals still matter most.If you'd like to create images that showcase your products, tell your story and attract more customers, this episode is for you.--------888-------If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
126
Food photography for DSLR users: 5 principles for better food photos ( Marketing & Photography )
People eat with their eyes first.In this episode of The 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam shares five practical food photography principles that can help cafés, wineries, food producers, bakers, restaurants and small businesses create more appealing food images using a DSLR camera.Drawing on years of commercial food photography experience, Sam explains why great food photography isn't about expensive equipment—it's about understanding light, texture, composition, camera settings and storytelling.Whether you're photographing products for social media, your website, menus or marketing materials, these simple techniques can help your images stand out and make customers hungry.In this episode you'll learn:• Why lighting is the most important ingredient in food photography • How texture and shine create appetite appeal • Simple composition techniques that improve every image • DSLR settings that help achieve professional-looking results • How styling and storytelling bring food photos to lifeMaster these five principles and you'll be well on your way to creating food photographs that don't just look good—they help sell your product.If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
125
What Canva, Boost Juice, Redballoon and iVorey can teach small business owners ( Business Development )
What do Canva, Boost Juice, RedBalloon and iVorey have in common – and what can their stories teach you as a small business owner?In this short, practical episode, I break down five lessons from some of Australia’s most recognisable brands: starting with a problem (not a product), launching before you feel “ready”, backing yourself through rejection, adapting as markets change, and thinking bigger than your postcode.You’ll walk away with three simple reflection questions and one tiny action you can take today to move your business forward – no huge budget, investors or big team required.Check them out hereCanva – https://www.canva.comcanvaBoost Juice – https://www.boostjuice.com.auwikipediaRedBalloon – https://www.redballoon.com.auherbusinessIvorey – https://www.ivorey.ioIf you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
124
Why buying local helps your business (Business Development &Marketing)
We often ask customers to support local, but how often do we think about where our own business dollars are going?In this episode, Sam explores why buying local isn't just good for the community — it's good business.From building stronger relationships and improving service levels to supporting local jobs and creating economic resilience, buying local can have a significant impact on your business and the region around you.Drawing on Australian research and real-world examples, Sam explains the local multiplier effect and why even small purchasing decisions can make a difference.What You'll Learn:• Why small businesses make up 97.3% of Australian businesses • The economic impact of spending locally • What the local multiplier effect means for your community • Why local suppliers often provide greater value than the cheapest option • How buying local strengthens regional economies and creates jobs • A simple question every business owner should ask before making their next purchaseBecause when local businesses support local businesses, everybody wins.------------------------------------------------888----------------------------------------If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.#smallbusiness #marketingstrategy #businessdevelopment #5minutebusinessboost #podcast #regionalbusiness #samhicks
-
123
The art of selling: monetising your creativity online ( Business Development &Marketing )
Creative talent is only part of the equation, artists also need visibility, confidence and practical business skills to grow sustainably.In this episode of the 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam shares five key lessons artists can learn from creative business workshops delivered across regional Victoria.From photographing artwork properly and telling the story behind your work, to social media, pricing and building confidence as a creative business owner — this episode is packed with practical insights for artists, makers and creatives.What You’ll Learn:Why storytelling matters in selling artworkSimple photography tips for showcasing your artHow to make social media feel manageableThe real challenges behind pricing creative workWhy artists need small business skills tooPerfect for artists, makers, creatives, market stall holders and anyone building a creative practice.----------------------------------------------888------------------------------------------------If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
122
From search to success: 5 things every small business needs to know about online visibility (Marketing )
From Search to Success: Elevating Your Business’s Online VisibilityOnline visibility has changed — and small businesses can no longer rely on just having a website and hoping customers find them.In this episode, Sam explores the changing world of SEO, GEO, Google Business, social media and AI tools, and what small businesses actually need to focus on in 2026 to stay visible online.From Google rankings and reviews through to AI-generated search results and social media discovery, this episode breaks down the practical things businesses can do right now to improve their digital presence without getting overwhelmed.What You’ll Learn:Why Google Business still matters enormouslyThe difference between SEO and GEO explained simplyHow AI tools are changing online searchWhy social media is now a search engineHow to use AI tools without losing your authentic voiceSimple ways to improve your online visibility this weekA practical episode for small business owners wanting to stay visible, relevant and easier to find online.--------------8--------------------If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible..
-
121
Artful Engagement: social media & brand building for creatives ( Marketing )
In this episode of the 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam shares insights from the 2025 “Artful Engagement: Social Media & Brand Building for Creatives” workshop series delivered with Yea Arts.This episode explores the realities of social media for artists, makers and creatives — without the fluff, overwhelm or pressure to become a full-time influencer.From building an artistic brand to sharing process, consistency and using AI tools without losing authenticity, this is a practical conversation designed to help creatives promote their work with more confidence.What You’ll LearnWhy your process is often more engaging than the finished artworkHow consistency beats perfection onlineThe importance of building a recognisable creative brandWhy artists don’t need to be on every social platformWhere AI can help creatives — and where your voice still mattersSimple ways to connect with audiences without feeling “salesy”If your arts group, gallery, council or creative network would like to host an “Artful Engagement” workshop in your region or online, get in touch with Sam Hicks via samhicks.com.au-----------------------------------------------------------If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
120
Sticking to your knitting: why your point of difference matters (Marketing)
In this episode of the 5-Minute Business Boost, Sam talks about the old business saying “stick to your knitting” or is her saying...? And why it still matters for small businesses today.From competing against nearly 20 ceramic studios within a 20-kilometre radius in the 1980s, to today’s world of endless trends, reels, AI tools and shiny marketing distractions, this episode explores the importance of staying focused on your point of difference.Because customers don’t need you to do everything. They need to clearly understand what you do well.If you’ve ever felt pulled in too many directions by trends, competitors or marketing noise — this episode is your reminder to get back to what makes your business memorable.If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible.
-
119
Websites – SEO and GEO explained simply ( Marketing )
Websites don’t need to be complicated to work—but they do need to be clear.In this episode, Sam breaks down the difference between SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) and GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation) in plain English.With search shifting towards AI-driven results, it’s no longer just about being found on Google it’s about being understood and recommended by AI tools as well.This episode walks through what actually matters on your website, how WordPress plugins can support you behind the scenes, and how to use AI to create content that is searchable, useful, and still sounds like you.If your website feels a bit “set and forget”… this is your reset.If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, share it with another small business owner, and leave a review — it helps more people find the show.Head to the website to sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or explore how we can work together across consulting, marketing strategy, social media, workshops, mentoring, or a focused 1-hour session.New podcast episodes drop weekly every Wednesday at 10 am and newsie now monthly.Follow along on social media @samhickscomau — and remember, in small business, anything is possible..
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Podcast OverviewIn this weekly podcast, Sam shares real, practical insights on small business — from marketing and business development to what’s actually happening on the ground in regional Victoria.Expect honest conversations, simple strategies, and the occasional reality check to help you move your business forward.Show notes and resources are available with each episode via the Sam Hicks website.About SamSam Hicks is a small business advisor specialising in business development, marketing, and photography.Based in North East Victoria, she’s been running businesses since she was 18 and works closely with small business owners to simplify, focus, and grow.Her approach is grounded in real-world experience — both in business and through active involvement in community and regional initiatives.Work With SamIf you’re ready to take your business to the next level, you can w
HOSTED BY
SAM HICKS
CATEGORIES
Loading similar podcasts...