The Starting Story Podcast

I speak with Sarah Hubbard, an expert in networking and building connections. She explains her 4-step framework to excel in your networking skills from even before you step into the room - and how to keep the connection alive once the event ends. With networking such a crucial part of a small business' success, this episode gives you the blueprints to make connections that are quicker, easier and long-lasting. Connect with Sarah here:

I speak with Yvonne Liao, on the topic of change and its necessity in life. She has made some significant growth since her younger years, and has now built thriving fashion in New York. Her take on why pursuing difficulty, and ensuring you don't suffer from change is invaluable. Stick around till the end to see her honest recount and advice for those stuck in constant change.

You have the plan and the motivation, yet the work isn't getting done. Author Kam Knight joins the podcast to expose "Internal Resistance"—the biological mechanism designed to keep you from growing. This is an autopsy of your "busy work" and a guide to killing the resistance maintaining your $0 revenue streak.Key Insights:The Wanting Mechanism: Your brain generates infinite desires that distract from actual execution.The Inner Critic: Action is often blocked by a subconscious "panel of judges" that prioritizes safety over progressSneaky Tricks: Planning and perfectionism are sophisticated avoidance tactics—they provide the "illusion of progress" without moving the needle.The Fix: Ruthlessly contain your environment and use targeted self-talk to reprogram your self-image.

You're already producing million dollar ideas, but don't have the system in place to make it a reality. How many failed attempts will you need before you focus on improving your daily habits and systems? This episode with Danielle Blum is a game changer. She explains how to get from the "scatterbrain" state to a more "flow" state where you can take charge of your creative projects. Her strategies for change will make you rethink just your diary and journalling, and give you steps to a system that accomodates and grows as fast as your ideas. https://www.danielleblum.com/Learn about more episodes: https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

If you open your eyes in the morning, struggling to get up, scrolling on your phone and watching the hours slip by - you are not in control of your body's 3 nervous states. Katie breaks them down into Red, Green and Yellow, and wonderfully describes how you can use them to finally get in control of your mood swings and start making the right steps today. This episode has had a direct impact on my podcasting process, and I'm sure it will help you too. Find out more about the podcast and how to get involved:https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

You already know how important branding is. But do you know how to create a strong identity and midset behind your brand? Join me as I sit down with Dan Ahlborn, a real estate investor and mindset/identity coach for over 17 years. He talks about the importance of self-identity building, and how you can take your first steps today to regain control of your character and business. @housebuyerdan IG/tiktok/youtubehttps://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Me and Mario talk about the growing need for your business to become digital, and how you can do it as quickly as possible.Mario is the CEO of Reyemtech, a Boutique Tech company finding solutions for those that can't see the way through the tech fog. To find out about Mario, just search Mario Meyer into LinkedIn, or go to https://www.reyem.techFor more Starting Story tips: https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Most entrepreneurs chase success, but few are honest about the cost of failure. James Erskine, the CEO of a successful youth marketing agency, openly shares his journey as a self-proclaimed "reluctant entrepreneur," detailing how a series of expensive mistakes taught him invaluable lessons about business. In this episode, he reveals why he's happier with a smaller team and the counterintuitive power of saying "no." This is a raw, honest conversation for any founder who wants to learn from the mistakes of others and build a business that prioritizes passion and quality of life over vanity [email protected]://www.linkedin.com/in/jameserskine?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app@JamesErskine on x https://bsky.app/profile/jameserskine.bsky.social

Are you paralyzed by a big idea? You're not alone. In this episode, Jackie Klein shares her incredible journey from a 28-year career as a teacher to becoming a successful solopreneur. She reveals why "doing it scared" was the most important step she took and how she overcame the imposter syndrome that holds so many people back. This is a powerful conversation about the courage to start messy, the freedom of not being a generalist, and the hidden power of your past experiences in shaping your future.

In the creative world, the most successful people aren't just talented—they're master marketers. In this episode, Jon Goehring shares the counterintuitive strategies he used to build his voiceover business and why cold calling and generic pitches are a recipe for failure. He reveals the power of playing the long game, focusing on adding value, and using a customer relationship management (CRM) system to nurture connections. This conversation is an essential guide for any creative professional who wants to build a business on a foundation of trust and authentic relationships.

We are living in an age of misinformation, but why do some lies spread faster than the truth? In this provocative episode, materials scientist Dr. Chris DeArmitt breaks down the science behind why our brains are so susceptible to misinformation, and how it's being used to fuel massive global movements. He reveals how a personal experience with a falsehood taught to his children led him to dedicate years of unpaid research to debunking myths about plastics and the environment. This conversation is an eye-opening exploration into cognitive dissonance, the illusory truth effect, and the simple but difficult act of seeking facts over fiction.

AI isn't coming for your job—but your attitude toward it might. In this episode, AI entrepreneur Wendy Molinares shares her "lazy person's" guide to success in a world of rapid technological change. She argues that the people most at risk aren't the ones who fear AI, but the ones who think they're irreplaceable. Learn the critical skills of communication and logic that will make you indispensable, how to use AI to handle the tasks you hate, and why your ego is the biggest threat to your professional growth.www.chatbotbuilder.ai

Life is full of challenges, but what happens when a physical ailment threatens to derail your entire career? Claire Lamb shares her deeply personal story of navigating a hip condition and a subsequent surgery that tested her belief in herself as a personal trainer. She explains her powerful mantra of "control what you can control" and how it helped her meticulously plan her recovery and business growth. This is a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed by circumstances beyond their control, offering a practical and honest guide to resilience.Instagram: @clairetyler.fithttps://www.instagram.com/clairetyler.fit/https://www.wellroundedyou.com/work-with-me/

Everyone wants to know how to deal with a crisis, but few have a system for it. In this episode, Debbie Simmons shares the powerful framework that took her from unimaginable personal tragedy to building a thriving ministry. She reveals the secret to moving from the paralyzing question of "Why?" to the actionable power of "How?". This is a high-yield conversation for anyone facing professional or personal turbulence, offering a proven method to turn struggle into momentum and find clarity in the chaos.Website: www.thedebbiesimmons.comFacebook: @thedebbiesimmonsInstagram: @thedebbiesimmonsLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/debbie-simmonsPodcast Features & Media: www.thedebbiesimmons.com/resources

What does the size of your bedroom TV have to do with your business? Kathrine Farris shares the unconventional logic behind her favourite automations — from quirky intake forms to AI-powered lead scoring. We explore why creativity matters more than code, and how the right automation can reveal insights you’d never expect.https://www.marketecs.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrinefarrishttps://www.youtube.com/@marketecs

Gala Glow believes the old rules of work harder, earn more" are broken. After two decades of entrepreneurship, she's crafted a new framework where energy, joy, and authenticity replace burnout as the path to real success. We discuss how her Zagrava Method helps women-and anyone--transition into a life and business aligned with who they truly are.

What do you do when you realise no one has built the thing you desperately need? Nicky Wake, veteran entrepreneur, tells the story of founding niche dating apps based on her own lived experiences—and how personal clarity led to commercial opportunity. She shares hard-won lessons on funding, PR, and navigating B2C tech as a first-timer.Chapter2Dating.app WidowsFire.Dating SoberLove.apphttps://kparmar.space/home/podcast/

There’s a strange pressure to stay ‘capable’ even when your job is draining you. Sabrina challenges that directly. In this episode, she opens up about letting go of roles that made her feel respected — but not herself. Her story invites you to ask whether your competence is costing you clarity. It’s an honest, unusual look at what true realignment can feel like.sabrinadelduca.com @DuchessSabrina@GetIntoFlowPodcast

In a world obsessed with trending platforms, Melanie Wakelin admits she's been "running like a dinosaur" when it comes to social media. Yet, her "old school" approach to connection and community is what truly built her empire. Uncover the timeless strategy you might be overlooking for genuine growth.

Forget what you’ve heard: passion won’t sustain a nonprofit. Dan Johnson reveals why clarity, tiny wins, and a well-built team matter more—and how most nonprofit founders get it wrong. This conversation might change how you start anything—from a business to a habit.https://nextlevelnonprofits.us

Mike Todasco has over 100 patents, built a niche e-commerce site before Shopify existed, and shaped innovation at PayPal during the rise of machine learning. In this episode, he shares how curiosity—not qualifications—pushed him from comic books to corporate innovation to AI education. A candid conversation about failing early, building ideas that don't scale, and why keeping a notepad by your bed might be your best decision in the age of AI.https://www.linkedin.com/in/todasco/https://kparmar.space/home/podcast/

In a world that glamorises risk and reinvention, Julee Sung did something bolder: she chose stability first. By pivoting into entrepreneurship through familiar territory, she built a resilient career without losing herself. This episode is a powerful rebuke to hustle culture — and a blueprint for building a meaningful path without burning everything [email protected]://juleesung.com/https://kparmar.space/home/podcast/

Barry Walton’s raw and revealing conversation explores the painful lows and the courageous highs of a life lived chasing meaning through chaos. From surviving a near-fatal car crash at 16 to navigating a spiritual crisis that Bible college couldn’t solve, Barry opens up about the price of purpose and the power of self-discovery. He shares how a failed third-grade year sparked his lifelong pursuit of the unknown—leading to filmmaking in Hollywood, life-threatening expeditions at 18,000 feet, and the eventual realization that adventure without balance can become a destructive addiction. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and redefining success beyond societal norms.https://www.endlessmedia1.com/reelhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-g-walton/https://www.facebook.com/WaltonBarry

What do you do with 25 years of personal diaries? For Bonny Buckner, the answer wasn’t a box in the attic — it was a national archive. In this episode, she shares the accidental origins of a movement that’s preserving anonymous lives with the same care as presidential [email protected]://www.facebook.com/americandiaryprojecthttps://www.instagram.com/americandiaryprojectwww.americandiaryproject.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/american-diary-project/posts/?feedView=all

At rock bottom, Jeremy was sitting outside his ex’s house with a petrol can in the backseat. Minutes later, he typed: “How do I stop negative thoughts?” That search changed his life — and set him on a path to help thousands.This episode contains discussions of mental health challenges and past trauma, which may be difficult for some listeners.To find out about Jeremy and his amazing work:[email protected]+1 413-459-5554Jeremyrodriguez.co Find out about the podcast

Sophie Biggerstaff quit her corporate job to travel the world—then the pandemic grounded her, jobless and stuck in a flat with a mortgage to pay. What began as a survival tactic turned into a thriving business. In this episode, she shares how the best parts of her career came from a moment when everything fell apart.Sophie's Free Masterclass: https://onlinebusinessschool.itssophiebiggerstaff.com/registration-pagehttps://www.itssophiebiggerstaff.com/https://www.instagram.com/itssophiebiggerstaffhttps://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Dr Rob Kelly, famously known as The Addiction Doctor, opens up about his fall from success to homelessness—and the eerie spiritual moment that sparked a complete mental, emotional, and financial rebirth. From bare-knuckle fights with gypsies to pioneering brain rewiring therapies, this episode uncovers the raw truth of addiction recovery, mindset mastery, and turning trauma into triumph.https://robbkelly.com/

Entrepreneur and former pro surfer Joseph Deskins shares how tree trimming, faith, and persistence shaped his journey. From writing books to coaching others, he reveals how long-term vision and taking the “next right step” can change everything.https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

I sit down with Carolyn Ann Wood. A mindset coach and heart healer who turned decades of emotional pain into a powerful journey of self-discovery. In this episode, she shares how losing her mum at 13, numbing out for years, and a wake-up call in her 40s led her to transformative healing tools like tapping and Heart Healing hypnotherapy. Tune in to hear how she helps others unlock self-love, clear inner blocks, and reconnect with who they truly are.Connect with Carolyn at her website and FaceBook

Super Excited to Launch Season 3, with more guests and better visuals. Want to be my next guest! -- Go to https://tally.so/r/nGBQlj

Today I sit down with Author Lacole Smith as she explains the importance of books and how she managed to successfully publish one whilst honoring the legacy of her mother. Find out more about Lacole: lacolesmith.com

I sit down with Eric Mitchell for a candid conversation about physical and mindset coaching. He's worked with athletes and knows just how much the mind matters if you want to create a change in your life. This goes deeper than motivation, it's about unravelling the reasons for our feelings and how to control them for success. He's now releasing his latest form of coaching - it's called The Tsunami Effect (listen in to find out why).-------Be on the lookout for The Tsunami Effect Coaching website, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!!The Tsunami 🌊 Effect book is on its way!Instagram: @coachericmitchellEmail: [email protected]

In today's episode, I explore why overanalysing thoughts can do more harm than good — and what a clearer, simpler model of the mind might look like.This episode dives into how clarity, not strategy, drives leadership, resilience, and creativity — especially for entrepreneurs.Featuring psychologist Craig Polsfuss, who shares the insights that reshaped his career — and why most coaching ignores the brain’s actual role in change.A powerful rethink of how we grow, lead, and make decisions — from the inside out.craigpolsfuss.com------https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

You may think that spirituality is a thing of the old, religious world - but after speaking to Gina Anayana, I am certain that spirituality has its place today as well. Everyone has their own method of spirituality, so what you WON'T get here is a one-size-fits-all guide, we're delving into the meaning and purpose behind spirituality and how you can use it in your own lives. Gina also talks about the process of turning a passion project like spiritual teaching, into a successful business. Find a calm place, put in some headphones, and give this a listen.------🌿 Website: www.innersensoryhealing.com📸 Instagram: @goddess_intention📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AEn4WBEDW/?mibextid=wwXIfrEmail: [email protected] ------https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Brooke Roberston had every reason to give up, helping someone build a company worth $33 Million, but then getting nothing when it sells. But she picked herself up and continued building businesses, currently focussing on her interior design venture (the pictures are stunning may I say!), which she has exciting ideas for - ones that I've never heard of before. This episode is a showing of how to bounceback from failure, and use it to fuel you further. I urge you to listen to her story!-----Brooke's Links:instagram.com/thatflipchickwww.linkedin.com/in/brooke-robertson-28baa51a-----https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Today I speak with Crystal Jordan, an autism advocate - who didn't even believe she was an advocate until others told her!She has built a brand based on the underrepresentation of black children in autism, after having a child born with autism. She has truly rocked the stage with this idea, and has created books, toys, videos, journals and so much more. This is a great episode for delving into personal passion projects and building an e-commerce business. Give it a listen!-----Visit Zachariah's World and Crystal's own page by clicking on the links-----https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Rev. Dr DeShaun Williams never expected to be where he is today. In fact, after trying suicide, he is a testament to the power of the mind and resilience. DeShaun now coaches others to life freedom and unstucking themselves from where they may be. This is a truly inspirational episode, and for some out there, even emotional. Give it a listen!-----Want to get involved with Rev Dr DeShaun Williams? Search "Write Your Way, LLC" into your search engine and he'll come up!-----https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Marcel Clarke comes onto the Starting Story Podcast to talk about his journey from 9-5 to owning a franchise business. Join our candid talks about the loneliness involved in business, and the inevitability of AI and how it changes everything. Give it a listen, and let me know what you've learnt!-----Marcel's link:https://linktr.ee/thehustleandgrowshow------https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Explore Brian Walsh's "failing forward" technique that has allowed him to learn so much so quickly, and keep that ego at bay. Brian speaks about how much habit formation matters if you want to be successful and his tips to those wanting to form unbreakable habits. This is an exciting one, give it a listen!------Brian's links:[email protected]/walshmegrowBad Day Excellence Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, etc-----https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Wow, what a journey and learning experience after speaking with Mark!He's pulled himself out of the pits of gang violence, assault and womanising to find purpose in helping others in doing the same. He strongly believes that everyone is in their own pit somewhere and all they need is some help to show them the light on the other side. This is an amazing episode for those:- Looking to find ways to unstuck themselves- Trying to break free from their surroundings- Trying to teach others based on their own life story.Listen in now!-----Mark's Coaching Packages and Services https://lightbrations.launchware.ai/lightbrations/social-page/ Social media https://www.facebook.com/share/166xdJm6rd/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.instagram.com/mark_my_magnificence/Sundays in the Shadows Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/4g0g1AdcYPsdr1mNBUTGKM?si=a231001fb7c0414d Free Mini Course https://lightbrations.launchware.ai/journeys/388?sign-up ------https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Explore Becca's journey with me, with a dual-venture strategy. She talks about the process of: - looking for opportunities, - growing to help everyone, and then - cutting down services once you know your niche. Her businesses include a successful marketing agency and scottish treat e-commerce brand. ------www.rk-creative.comwww.thescot-box.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/becca-guiller------https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

I speak with Nathan Baws on how he started over 15 businesses and grew many to over 7 figures. He talks about his smart strategy to scale with low costs and taking every opportunity as it comes. www.nathanbaws.com -----My 3 links:https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Join me as I talk with Emma, a wellbeing and burnout coach focussing on the growing problem of mental issues with healthcare workers. Listen to her story and journey into this field, and how Emma plans to reach out to more struggling clients with their life and wellbeing. All social links to Emma:https://linktr.ee/emmaleivesleycoaching-----https://linktr.ee/starting_story_podcast

Ever felt trapped in the 9-to-5 grind? In this episode of The Starting Story Podcast, I sit down with Mike Sieben, an Amazon Wholesale expert who walked away from a stable engineering career to build a multi-million dollar e-commerce business. 🚀We dive into:🔥 The exact moment Mike knew he had to escape the corporate world🎯 Why most new entrepreneurs fail—and how to avoid their mistakes🤯 The biggest misconception about making money on Amazon💡 How AI is changing e-commerce (and why relationships still matter)Mike’s journey is packed with insights, real talk, and lessons for anyone looking to take control of their financial future.Connect with Mike here:IG: https://www.instagram.com/mmsieben/YT: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketplaceSuperHeroesofficialURL: https://marketplacesuperheroes.com/mike-----⁠https://www.instagram.com/the_starting_story/⁠⁠https://kparmar.space/

Podcast SummaryIn this episode of The Starting Story Podcast, I sit down with Amy Hager, a marketing strategist and co-founder of the Content Personality Club, to talk about the power of authentic branding, finding your marketing superpower, and building a business that aligns with YOU.Amy’s career journey is nothing short of wild—from go-kart racing to running a B&B association to leading marketing teams. Now, she helps entrepreneurs grow their brands without the burnout. We dive into:🔥 How to discover your unique content personality and stop wasting time on marketing that doesn’t suit you🎯 The biggest mistakes business owners make in messaging & positioning (and how to fix them)🤯 Why working for free is hurting your business—and what to do instead💡 How taking a break can actually accelerate your successTake the quiz: https://joyfulbusinessrevolution.com/quizSee the full brand story here: https://joyfulbusinessrevolution.com/documentaryConnect with Amy: [email protected] on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-hager-cae-iom-393493a/Podcast SUMMARY here-----⁠https://www.instagram.com/the_starting_story/⁠⁠https://kparmar.space/

Ever wondered how to turn a passion for creativity into a thriving business? In this episode of Starting Story, I sit down with Kizzie St. Clair, founder of CGR Productions, to talk about how she went from organizing student events to launching her own production company.We discuss:🎭 How Kizzie’s background in acting, business, and event management shaped her entrepreneurial journey🚀 The power of networking and why face-to-face connections still matter in a digital world💡 Why personalization is the key to unforgettable event experiences🔥 The challenges of starting a business from scratch and how to push through self-doubtReach out to Kizzie at her instagram: @cgrproductions_Podcast SUMMARY here----⁠https://www.instagram.com/the_starting_story/⁠⁠https://kparmar.space/

In this episode of the Starting Story Podcast, I sit down with Gresham Harkless Jr., founder of Blue 16 Media, CB Nation, and Blue Star Franchise, to talk about the power of content, entrepreneurship, and navigating the chaos of building multiple businesses.Gresh shares how he went from selling snacks on the playground to running a digital media powerhouse, why every business is a media company, and the hard lessons he learned from getting laid off and taking risks. We dive into: 🔥 How a childhood newsletter sparked his passion for storytelling 🎯 The struggles of balancing multiple ventures without burning out 🤯 Why most businesses fail at marketing—and how to fix it 💡 The one thing every aspiring entrepreneur should focus on firstLearn more about Gresh from his one-pager here: https://progreshion.com/one-pager/InstaGram: https://www.instagram.com/progreshion-------Podcast SUMMARY herehttps://www.instagram.com/the_starting_story/https://kparmar.space/

Have you ever thought your next trade show could be the turning point for your business? In this episode of The Starting Story Podcast I sit down with Maree Louise, a trade show expert with 20+ years of experience, to uncover the hidden strategies behind successful exhibitions.We discuss: 🔥 Why most businesses fail at exhibitions (and how to avoid it!) 🎯 The #1 mistake exhibitors make that costs them leads and sales 🤯 How a $100K stand can generate $1M in return 💡 The 48-hour follow-up rule that can make or break your successIf you're planning an exhibition—or just curious about the power of face-to-face sales—this one’s for you!Look further into Maree's amazing work here:www.fortyfourprojects.comhttps://www.instagram.com/fortyfourprojects/https://www.facebook.com/FortyFourProjectsFind out about me and my podcast summaries:https://kparmar.space/https://medium.com/@starting_story

His biggest struggles were actually opportunities in disguise.In this episode, I sit down with Miki Farmer, an international student turned entrepreneur, who went from homelessness to running a thriving business.We dive into: 🌍 Leaving home with no plan – Miki’s journey from a small Indian village to Singapore 🏚️ Surviving on the streets – How he turned financial hardship into motivation 🎤 Busking for survival – The unexpected hustle that saved his education 📸 From dishwasher to photographer – Building a business from scratch with zero experience 💡 One ‘yes’ that changed everything – The power of networking and taking risksMiki’s story is raw, inspiring, and packed with lessons for anyone chasing success from a low point. Find out more about Miki and how he's helping others excel in small business here:Email : [email protected] : www.instagram.com/mikii_farmerkparmar.space

What if trading wasn’t just about making money, but about building a legacy? In this episode I sit down with Pepper Bradford, founder of GodlyTrading.com, to uncover the real truth about trading, mindset, and financial freedom.We discuss:🔥 Why most traders fail—not because of bad strategies, but emotions🎯 The biggest trading myths social media won’t tell you🤯 How faith and purpose can transform the way you invest💡 Why six months of discipline can change the next 60 years of your lifeThis conversation completely shifted my perspective on trading, success, and sticking to what truly matters. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trader, this episode is packed with game-changing insights. 🎧👉 Hit play now and discover the mindset behind real wealth!Find out more from Pepper at godlytrading.comkparmar.space