Growing Your Small Business Even When it Feels Tough

Episode Summary

If you’ve ever felt like running your small business is a bit like juggling flaming swords while blindfolded, you’re not alone. In this episode of the Small Business Made Simple Podcast, I’m joined by the brilliant Troy Trewin from Grow Your Small Business. Troy’s a man who’s seen it all—over 26 years in business, more than 30 partnerships across three countries, and enough wisdom to fill a library.

We dive into:

• The top three mistakes small business owners are still making in 2025 (and how to dodge them)

• Why people and marketing are your greatest growth levers

• How to think about your exit strategy—even if you’re nowhere near ready to sell

• The secret to professional development that actually moves the needle

• What to look for in a business partner (and how to avoid the horror stories)

This conversation is jam-packed with practical strategies, golden nuggets, and a few good laughs along the way. Whether you’re a solopreneur or managing a growing team, Troy’s advice will help you work smarter, lead better, and grow with confidence.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

1. The 3 Common Mistakes That Can Stall Your Growth

   • Why your strategy needs to start with the numbers

   • The make-or-break role of people in your business

   • How to recruit and manage world-class talent

2. What Successful Owners Are Doing Right Now

   • The power of ongoing professional development (PD)

   • Why planning your exit early can make your business more valuable

3. The 5 Growth Pillars of Business

   • People, Strategy, Marketing, Funding, and Systems—and why people and marketing are your perpetual priorities

4. Business Partnerships Without the Drama

   • How to choose the right partner and protect yourself legally

   • Why clear communication is the ultimate kindness

5. Books That Will Change Your Business Game

   • The E-Myth Revisited – Michael Gerber

   • The Great Game of Business – Jack Stack

   • Built to Sell, The Art of Selling Your Business, and The Automatic Customer – John Warrilow

Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

• Troy Trewin’s Website & Free Resources – growsmallbusiness.com

• Troy’s Podcast – Grow Your Small Business (700+ episodes and counting!)

• Books Recommended by Troy:

  • The E-Myth Revisited – Michael Gerber

  • The Great Game of Business – Jack Stack

  • Built to Sell, The Art of Selling Your Business, The Automatic Customer – John Warrilow

Don’t Miss This!

If you loved Troy’s take on PD and growth, then you’ll definitely want to grab your ticket to the Social Media & Marketing Conference on Friday 29 August 2025 in Melbourne CBD.
🎟 Tickets: socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

I’d love to know your biggest takeaway from this episode!
Come and share it inside my free Facebook community – Like Minded Business Owners.

Remember: As the opening song says, there’s no point in dreaming small.