60 acast.com Vision to Venture - With Neil Betts https://www.visiontoventure.uk/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=podcast_launch&utm_content=podcast_description en Neil Betts Entrepreneurship,Vision to Venture,Go True North,Business growth,Lean startup,Business improvement,UK entrepreneurs,Innovation,Founder stories,Business strategy,Neil Betts,Business mentoring,Start-up journey,Scaling a business,Small business success Neil Betts Turning bold ideas into lean, sustainable ventures. Go True North – Business Growth & Vision to Venture


At Go True North, we’re a hands-on team of Business Growth Consultants passionate about helping organisations and founders work smarter, leaner and with purpose.


Originally founded in Australia, we’ve partnered with start-ups, SMEs and government agencies across the UK and beyond to drive transformation through Lean thinking.


Our mission is simple: to empower entrepreneurs and businesses to unlock their full potential. We do this through our award-winning Vision to Venture programme and Lean Business Improvement services — helping you cut waste, create value and scale sustainably.


From defining your first business idea to building efficient operations, we provide clear direction, practical tools and expert mentorship every step of the way.


Join us as we share real stories, practical insights, and the mindset that turns ideas into ventures — faster, smarter, and leaner.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Go True North – Business Growth & Vision to Venture


At Go True North, we’re a hands-on team of Business Growth Consultants passionate about helping organisations and founders work smarter, leaner and with purpose.


Originally founded in Australia, we’ve partnered with start-ups, SMEs and government agencies across the UK and beyond to drive transformation through Lean thinking.


Our mission is simple: to empower entrepreneurs and businesses to unlock their full potential. We do this through our award-winning Vision to Venture programme and Lean Business Improvement services — helping you cut waste, create value and scale sustainably.


From defining your first business idea to building efficient operations, we provide clear direction, practical tools and expert mentorship every step of the way.


Join us as we share real stories, practical insights, and the mindset that turns ideas into ventures — faster, smarter, and leaner.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> false Neil Betts neil.betts@gotruenorth.uk 690bbb37d4fac9e84b16fa1c vision-to-venture-podcast episodic https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690bbb37d4fac9e84b16fa1c/1762378477738-91de1288-29ec-4392-b4ed-f4f2b0d272e6.jpeg https://www.visiontoventure.uk/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=podcast_launch&utm_content=podcast_description Vision to Venture - With Neil Betts 170c5820-ba8f-11f0-9839-cb373d7aaa3b Stop Guessing at Google — Ben Bradley on Getting Found, Getting Clicked, and Getting Clients Stop Guessing at Google — Ben Bradley on Getting Found, Getting Clicked, and Getting Clients Tue, 21 Apr 2026 08:00:00 GMT 43:09 69e60ad766c3374f7e96eaa1 false https://shows.acast.com/vision-to-venture-podcast/episodes/stop-guessing-at-google-ben-bradley-on-getting-found-getting 69e60ad766c3374f7e96eaa1 690bbb37d4fac9e84b16fa1c stop-guessing-at-google-ben-bradley-on-getting-found-getting full 1 9 Is your business showing up on Google — or just hoping it is?


In this episode of Vision to Venture, Neil Betts sits down with Ben Bradley, founder and director of Cosmik Carrot, a digital marketing agency he's been building for over 18 years. Ben started Cosmik Carrot in 2008 with a simple belief — that great web design and smart digital strategy should help real businesses grow, not just tick boxes.


What began as a one-person studio has become a trusted agency helping founders and small business owners across the UK get found on Google, attract the right clients, and grow with confidence. In this honest, no-fluff conversation, Ben and Neil dig into:


→ What Ben got completely wrong about marketing when he started out

→ Why Google visibility isn't just about rankings — and what it actually means for your revenue

→ The biggest mistakes local businesses make with SEO (and how to avoid them)

→ How to stay visible in a world where Google and AI keep changing the rules

→ The real story behind building a business that lasts nearly two decades


Whether you're just starting out or trying to figure out why your website isn't pulling its weight, Ben brings the kind of practical, grounded advice that actually makes a difference.


This one's a must-listen for any founder who wants to be found — not just exist. --- 🌐 Cosmik Carrot: https://www.cosmikcarrot.com 🚀 Vision to Venture programme: https://visiontoventure.uk

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Is your business showing up on Google — or just hoping it is?


In this episode of Vision to Venture, Neil Betts sits down with Ben Bradley, founder and director of Cosmik Carrot, a digital marketing agency he's been building for over 18 years. Ben started Cosmik Carrot in 2008 with a simple belief — that great web design and smart digital strategy should help real businesses grow, not just tick boxes.


What began as a one-person studio has become a trusted agency helping founders and small business owners across the UK get found on Google, attract the right clients, and grow with confidence. In this honest, no-fluff conversation, Ben and Neil dig into:


→ What Ben got completely wrong about marketing when he started out

→ Why Google visibility isn't just about rankings — and what it actually means for your revenue

→ The biggest mistakes local businesses make with SEO (and how to avoid them)

→ How to stay visible in a world where Google and AI keep changing the rules

→ The real story behind building a business that lasts nearly two decades


Whether you're just starting out or trying to figure out why your website isn't pulling its weight, Ben brings the kind of practical, grounded advice that actually makes a difference.


This one's a must-listen for any founder who wants to be found — not just exist. --- 🌐 Cosmik Carrot: https://www.cosmikcarrot.com 🚀 Vision to Venture programme: https://visiontoventure.uk

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Facing Africa's Toughest Barriers | Mike Calder's Comeback]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT 30:28 69af1070a94467652550508f false https://youtu.be/v_cl4xuV9r4 69af1070a94467652550508f 690bbb37d4fac9e84b16fa1c facing-africas-toughest-barriers-mike-calders-comeback full 1 8 In this podcast, we explore the inspiring journey of Mike Calder, who built Ethical Retreats, a venture dedicated to wildlife preservation. Discover how he overcame significant challenges and leveraged social media marketing to grow his platform. This story offers motivation for anyone looking to make a difference and achieve personal growth through their entrepreneurial endeavours.

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this podcast, we explore the inspiring journey of Mike Calder, who built Ethical Retreats, a venture dedicated to wildlife preservation. Discover how he overcame significant challenges and leveraged social media marketing to grow his platform. This story offers motivation for anyone looking to make a difference and achieve personal growth through their entrepreneurial endeavours.

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Purpose, People and Building a Business That Matters Purpose, People and Building a Business That Matters Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:46:58 GMT 1:00:55 69a55c9216315a936f1dd33a false https://youtu.be/cf2MeuRLjEo 69a55c9216315a936f1dd33a 690bbb37d4fac9e84b16fa1c purpose-people-and-building-a-business-that-matters From idea to impact – honest lessons on growth, leadership and staying true to your values. full 1 7 In this episode, I sit down with Marke Goode for a grounded and honest conversation about what it really takes to build a business that lasts.

We explore the journey behind the scenes. The early decisions. The challenges that don’t make the highlight reel. And the mindset required to keep moving when things feel uncertain.


Marke shares practical insight on leadership, clarity of direction and why purpose must sit at the heart of sustainable growth. We also unpack the balance between ambition and authenticity, and what founders often overlook when scaling.


If you are building something of your own, or thinking about it, this conversation will give you perspective and a few useful nudges.


A quick question for you after listening:


What is one decision you are currently avoiding that could unlock your next level of growth?


Let me know your thoughts.

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this episode, I sit down with Marke Goode for a grounded and honest conversation about what it really takes to build a business that lasts.

We explore the journey behind the scenes. The early decisions. The challenges that don’t make the highlight reel. And the mindset required to keep moving when things feel uncertain.


Marke shares practical insight on leadership, clarity of direction and why purpose must sit at the heart of sustainable growth. We also unpack the balance between ambition and authenticity, and what founders often overlook when scaling.


If you are building something of your own, or thinking about it, this conversation will give you perspective and a few useful nudges.


A quick question for you after listening:


What is one decision you are currently avoiding that could unlock your next level of growth?


Let me know your thoughts.

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Donna and Dennis Hall Reveal What They Wish They'd Known Earlier]]> Tue, 27 Jan 2026 08:59:56 GMT 50:06 69787e8c4366b0662daa5384 false https://youtu.be/DqpSmRje6qU 69787e8c4366b0662daa5384 690bbb37d4fac9e84b16fa1c In this engaging discussion, we explore key business strategies and the importance of learning from your mistakes to achieve long term success. full 1 6 In this engaging discussion, we explore key business strategies and the importance of learning from your mistakes to achieve long term success. We talk openly about the realities of entrepreneurship, from moments of self doubt to the lessons that only come from taking action and getting things wrong along the way.


In this video, we feature an interview with Donna and Dennis Hall, who share their journey of achieving business success. They discuss the importance of business expansion and the critical lessons learned from their mistakes. This conversation is packed with valuable business tips for any entrepreneur navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this engaging discussion, we explore key business strategies and the importance of learning from your mistakes to achieve long term success. We talk openly about the realities of entrepreneurship, from moments of self doubt to the lessons that only come from taking action and getting things wrong along the way.


In this video, we feature an interview with Donna and Dennis Hall, who share their journey of achieving business success. They discuss the importance of business expansion and the critical lessons learned from their mistakes. This conversation is packed with valuable business tips for any entrepreneur navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[How to Utilise Video & YouTube to drive Business Strategy]]> Wed, 14 Jan 2026 13:29:55 GMT 1:27:23 69679a1be9172b8320157d8f false https://www.gotruenorth.uk/post/using-youtube-as-a-business-strategy-not-just-a-content-channel 69679a1be9172b8320157d8f 690bbb37d4fac9e84b16fa1c The back story to Vision to Venture full 1 5 In this episode of Vision to Venture, I sit down with entrepreneur Dan Dennis and talk about the backstory to Vision to Venture and the use of YouTube as a business strategy.


We recently passed 100,000 YouTube subscribers, and in this episode, we unpack the full story of how we used video and YouTube to find the audience, test his business idea, and build trust online — without the need for perfection.


We talk about:

The power of “fail fast” thinking in business

Why every video is a learning opportunity

How to use YouTube as a trust wall to grow a brand

Turning long-form interviews into shorts

The mindset shift needed to show up consistently

The secret sauce behind real community building


Whether you’re just starting out or growing something new, this episode is packed with honest insights, laughs, and practical advice on how to use video to bring your idea to life.

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this episode of Vision to Venture, I sit down with entrepreneur Dan Dennis and talk about the backstory to Vision to Venture and the use of YouTube as a business strategy.


We recently passed 100,000 YouTube subscribers, and in this episode, we unpack the full story of how we used video and YouTube to find the audience, test his business idea, and build trust online — without the need for perfection.


We talk about:

The power of “fail fast” thinking in business

Why every video is a learning opportunity

How to use YouTube as a trust wall to grow a brand

Turning long-form interviews into shorts

The mindset shift needed to show up consistently

The secret sauce behind real community building


Whether you’re just starting out or growing something new, this episode is packed with honest insights, laughs, and practical advice on how to use video to bring your idea to life.

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Business Stories: Are You Making These Costly Mistakes with Traditional Estate Agents? Business Stories: Are You Making These Costly Mistakes with Traditional Estate Agents? Tue, 09 Dec 2025 14:42:02 GMT 51:20 6938353aa07cce4ec574484d false https://youtu.be/IricxnBg5TA 6938353aa07cce4ec574484d 690bbb37d4fac9e84b16fa1c A helpful watch for anyone trying to turn an idea into a real business. full 1 4 In this relaxed interview, Michael and Lucy share the moments that shaped them, the mistakes that taught them the most and the simple approaches that helped them move from uncertainty to action. We talk resilience, mindset and how to keep going when the pressure builds. A helpful watch for anyone trying to turn an idea into a real business.


Go True North Website: https://gotruenorth.uk

Vision To Venture Website: https://visiontoventure.uk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoTrueNorthUK

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gotruenorth

Instagram: @gotruenorthuk

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> In this relaxed interview, Michael and Lucy share the moments that shaped them, the mistakes that taught them the most and the simple approaches that helped them move from uncertainty to action. We talk resilience, mindset and how to keep going when the pressure builds. A helpful watch for anyone trying to turn an idea into a real business.


Go True North Website: https://gotruenorth.uk

Vision To Venture Website: https://visiontoventure.uk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoTrueNorthUK

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gotruenorth

Instagram: @gotruenorthuk

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Small Business Cybersecurity Small Business Cybersecurity Thu, 27 Nov 2025 19:54:06 GMT 25:37 6928ac5ea443330de96f3d6c false https://bluefootprint.co.uk/ 6928ac5ea443330de96f3d6c 690bbb37d4fac9e84b16fa1c Stop Hackers by Fixing This ONE Weakness full 1 3 Cybercriminals aren’t just targeting big corporations—your small business is at risk! Discover the shocking truth about human error and how to protect yourself **now**.


Discover why **human error** is the #1 cybersecurity risk for small businesses—and how to fix it fast. This video breaks down real-world threats, from reused passwords to phishing scams, and reveals why **employee training** is your best defence. Learn actionable tips to protect your business **today** before it’s too late. Perfect for owners, managers, and IT teams who want to stay ahead of cybercriminals. **No jargon, just practical advice!**


Links:

- Go True North Website: https://gotruenorth.uk

- Vision To Venture Website: https://visiontoventure.uk

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoTrueNorthUK

- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gotruenorth

- Instagram: @gotruenorthuk

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Cybercriminals aren’t just targeting big corporations—your small business is at risk! Discover the shocking truth about human error and how to protect yourself **now**.


Discover why **human error** is the #1 cybersecurity risk for small businesses—and how to fix it fast. This video breaks down real-world threats, from reused passwords to phishing scams, and reveals why **employee training** is your best defence. Learn actionable tips to protect your business **today** before it’s too late. Perfect for owners, managers, and IT teams who want to stay ahead of cybercriminals. **No jargon, just practical advice!**


Links:

- Go True North Website: https://gotruenorth.uk

- Vision To Venture Website: https://visiontoventure.uk

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoTrueNorthUK

- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gotruenorth

- Instagram: @gotruenorthuk

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Business Stories: How I Balanced Family, Business, and Community Business Stories: How I Balanced Family, Business, and Community Mon, 17 Nov 2025 06:55:21 GMT 19:56 691ac6d71029ec1fedb1950b false https://www.thebestof.co.uk/local/walsall/business-guide/feature/the-best-of-walsall/ 691ac6d71029ec1fedb1950b 690bbb37d4fac9e84b16fa1c With Sarah Rhodes from The Best of Walsall full 1 2 How do you juggle school runs, family life, and running a thriving business network? 💡


In this inspiring interview, Sarah Rhodes, the driving force behind The Best of Walsall, shares her journey from busy mum of three to influential business leader.


We talk about:

👉 Balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship

👉 The challenges women face in business—and how to overcome them

👉 Why community and networking are vital for growth in towns like Walsall

👉 Her advice for other mums ready to step into business or leadership roles


This is a story of resilience, community spirit, and proving that with passion and support, you can thrive both at home and in business.


✨ If you’re a parent, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the real lives behind local business success, this conversation is for you.


Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> How do you juggle school runs, family life, and running a thriving business network? 💡


In this inspiring interview, Sarah Rhodes, the driving force behind The Best of Walsall, shares her journey from busy mum of three to influential business leader.


We talk about:

👉 Balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship

👉 The challenges women face in business—and how to overcome them

👉 Why community and networking are vital for growth in towns like Walsall

👉 Her advice for other mums ready to step into business or leadership roles


This is a story of resilience, community spirit, and proving that with passion and support, you can thrive both at home and in business.


✨ If you’re a parent, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the real lives behind local business success, this conversation is for you.


Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[AI & Entrepreneurship: Building Smarter Start-ups with Mark Blake & Gabriel Imevbore]]> Wed, 05 Nov 2025 21:40:52 GMT 28:06 690bbf48b27ff20ceb33e99f false https://youtu.be/y2uG9QFNkrY 690bbf48b27ff20ceb33e99f 690bbb37d4fac9e84b16fa1c Real founders share how AI is shaping the future of small business. full 1 1 Unlock the power of AI for your small business! Experts reveal how to automate tasks, save time, and grow smarter—without losing the human touch.


Join Mark and Gabe as they break down AI for small businesses in this insightful discussion. Learn how to leverage AI to streamline workflows, cut costs, and boost productivity without losing the human touch. From understanding AI agents to avoiding common myths and pitfalls, this video is packed with actionable advice for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Discover how AI can give you life back by automating repetitive tasks, allowing you to focus on what truly adds value to your business. Whether you're overwhelmed by AI or just starting, this conversation will help you navigate the world of AI with confidence and clarity.

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Unlock the power of AI for your small business! Experts reveal how to automate tasks, save time, and grow smarter—without losing the human touch.


Join Mark and Gabe as they break down AI for small businesses in this insightful discussion. Learn how to leverage AI to streamline workflows, cut costs, and boost productivity without losing the human touch. From understanding AI agents to avoiding common myths and pitfalls, this video is packed with actionable advice for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Discover how AI can give you life back by automating repetitive tasks, allowing you to focus on what truly adds value to your business. Whether you're overwhelmed by AI or just starting, this conversation will help you navigate the world of AI with confidence and clarity.

Vision to Venture Academy - Build a Business & Get Your First Customer - in Just 12 Weeks

Vision to Venture YouTube - See our interviews

Go True North - Business Evolution & Innovation That Ignites Growth & Makes Your Business Unforgettable.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>