The Business Take-Away Podcast

In this episode, Brad Nelms, founder of TekX, shares his journey from a 20-year career in entertainment behind the scenes to launching his own consulting business. He discusses the real challenges and lessons learned along the way, including managing business operations, leadership challenges, adapting to industry shifts post-Covid, start up sales and leveraging technology like AI.Main Topics Covered:Brad’s background in the entertainment industry and decision to start his own consulting firmThe importance of infrastructure setup and setting realistic expectations for growthNavigating financial and legal complexities as a solo entrepreneurThe impacts of Covid-19 on supply, demand, and industry practicesLessons learned from past corporate roles applied to his new businessThe role of AI and technology tools in small business operationsManaging burnout and understanding the importance of work-life balanceBuilding reputation and trust through consistent customer relationshipsScaling challenges and strategic decisions on choosing software solutionsBrad's advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and maintaining a positive mindsetTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and Brad's background in entertainment and consulting 02:04 - What motivated Brad to become an entrepreneur 03:26 - Managing family life and transitioning from burnout 04:49 - Brad’s business model and his vision for flexibility 06:07 - Lessons from corporate roles about processes and infrastructure 07:01 - Challenges with payment processors and legal considerations 09:05 - Balancing work hours and discovering ADHD impacts 10:16 - How ADHD awareness has influenced Brad’s business practices 13:09 - The post-Covid challenges in entertainment and supply chain delays 14:59 - How industry shifts have affected supply and demand cycles 17:35 - Brad’s reflections on business success and revenue fluctuations 18:49 - Economic uncertainties and planning for volatility 23:36 - The impact of global crises on industry and personal safety 23:53 - Brad’s perspective on technology, AI, and data analysis 25:46 - The importance of scalable software solutions 36:39 - Advice on selecting the right tools for growth 40:16 - Mistakes Brad would avoid if starting over 42:21 - The effects of self-employment on quality of life 44:41 - Managing stress and the importance of support systems 45:00 - Brad’s advice for new business owners 47:25 - The value of reputation and networking 49:16 - The art of listening to customers and solving real problems 50:28 - Brad’s vision of success in five years 52:22 - Recognizing burnout and the importance of self-awareness 53:45 - Brad’s golden rule for success: reputation and time management 55:09 - Rapid-fire questions: preferences on tech, travel, lifestyle, and more Resources & Links:TechX Consulting

Building a Lighting Business: 20 Years of Growth, Ceo insights, Leadership Skills, and business culture with Sam TamplinIn this episode, Sam Tamplin shares insights from building TSL from a small lighting rental start-up to a nearly 100-employee company with international ambitions. Discover how strategic focus, investing in people and systems, and fostering a strong culture have driven his success over two decades.Key topics:Sam's journey from van-based lighting to a global rental businessThe importance of consistency and focus in business growthThe role of reinvestment and the economic flywheel modelHow leadership and management style evolve with company sizeStrategic decisions around technology, systems, and scaling operationsBuilding a company culture based on character and valuesLessons learned from rapid growth, contractions, and industry challengesPlanning for the next decade: consolidation, international expansion, and innovationPractical tips for onboarding, risk management, and financial disciplinePersonal leadership principles: treating others well and long-term thinkingTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome and episode overview02:00 - Sam's background and early career influences05:20 - The importance of focus and specialization in long-term success08:00 - The evolution of TSL and growth milestones12:00 - Recognising the "business moment" and scaling challenges16:00 - Delegation and offloading roles in a growing business20:00 - Leadership changes as team size expands25:00 - Financial discipline and reinvestment strategies30:00 - Building systems: software, risk management, and operational tech35:00 - Recruiting, culture, and managing people effectively40:00 - Defining company values and embedding them into culture45:00 - The impact of rebranding and visual identity evolution50:00 - Balancing growth ambitions with consolidation and risk55:00 - Industry challenges, learning from past projects, and strategic flexibility60:00 - Planning for future growth: international markets and digital innovation65:00 - Leadership lessons: managing scale, culture, and the importance of character70:00 - Sam's personal golden rule and leadership philosophy75:00 - Rapid fire: favourite tools, habits, and personal preferences80:00 - Closing remarks and key takeawaysResources & Links:TSL WebsiteJeff Bezos Flywheel ModelThis episode offers actionable insights for entrepreneurs, managers, and industry professionals aiming to scale sustainably and cultivate a strong company culture.