THE SMALL BUSINESS OWNER PODCAST with Rachel Klaver

Finding Style and Sustainability with Mad Nomad: A Conversation with Bibi Maher

In this episode of The Small Business Owner Podcast, I sit down with Bibi, the founder and designer of Mad Nomad, a New Zealand-based, made-to-order clothing brand focused on sustainability, ethical production, and inclusive sizing. Bibi shares her journey from personal styling to launching her own brand, the challenges of small-scale fashion production, and how she creates clothing that evolves with the wearer. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Bibi’s search for well-fitting, breathable clothing led her to create Mad Nomad. The reality of sourcing sustainable fabrics and working within small-scale fashion production in New Zealand. Why Mad Nomad operates as a made-to-order brand and how that benefits both customers and the environment. The challenges of growing a fashion brand and why in-person interactions are so crucial for marketing. How Bibi integrates her background in personal styling with her new Mindful Wardrobe Edit service. Key Quotes from the Episode: “I couldn’t find anything breathable, comfortable, and stylish in my size, so I decided to create it myself.” – Bibi “Sustainability isn’t just about the fabric; it’s about making clothing that fits well, lasts, and doesn’t end up in landfill.” – Bibi “Made-to-order fashion is personal. It’s about building a wardrobe with intention.” – Bibi Where to Find Mad Nomad: Website: madnomad.nz [https://www.madnomad.nz/] Instagram: @madnomadapparel [https://www.instagram.com/madnomadapparel] In-person: Walk Lightly pop-up store, Christchurch Episode Resources: Learn more about Mad Nomad’s commitment to sustainability and ethical production: madnomad.nz [https://www.madnomad.nz/] Book a virtual Mindful Wardrobe Edit consultation: madnomad.nz [https://www.madnomad.nz/] Enjoyed This Episode? If you loved this conversation, please subscribe and leave a review! And if you’re in Christchurch, stop by Walk Lightly to see Mad Nomad’s designs in person. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and explore how thoughtful fashion can transform the way you dress. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit hellohumanbyrachelklaver.substack.com/subscribe [https://hellohumanbyrachelklaver.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

Emma McLean on why it's time to Stand with Dads

Emma asked me at the end of this “Why didn’t you ask me more about how I built my business?” and I said - because this topic of working parents is so important whether you are in a role, or own a business…. and part of MY joy is allowing that conversation to go where it’s supposed to go. So this episode is about parenting and work - I hope you enjoy it! The Small Business Owner Podcast Episode Three In this episode of The Small Business Owner Podcast, I’m sitting down with the inspiring Emma McLean, founder of Works for Everyone. Emma and I go way back to our high school days, and it’s been incredible to watch her career evolve. Now, she’s on a mission to make work genuinely work for families—not just employers—and she’s an absolute champion for working parents. Emma’s work focuses on helping parents, both mums and dads, find balance in a world that often feels impossible to juggle. We dive into her journey from corporate marketing to executive coaching and the founding of Works for Everyone, where she supports parents in navigating the often overwhelming demands of career and family life. Emma is particularly passionate about empowering women to step back from the societal pressures to "do it all" and about advocating for dads to step up more at home. We talk a lot in this episode about the mental load of motherhood—the endless list of invisible tasks that so many women carry, even when they’re working full-time. Emma sheds light on how this imbalance starts early and why it’s so important to not just teach girls that "they can do anything," but also to make space for dads to take on their fair share at home. For Emma, this isn’t just about gender equity in the workplace, it’s about creating stronger, healthier families. By supporting both mums and dads, we can start to break down outdated expectations and create environments where parents can truly thrive—at home and at work. She shares how advocating for dads to have more flexible working arrangements is one of the key ways we can level the playing field and ease the pressure on mums who are trying to juggle too much. Key Highlights: * Emma’s transition from corporate life to coaching, and how her experiences as a working mum inspired her to found Works for Everyone. * The invisible mental load of motherhood, and why so many mums feel like they have to "do it all"—while dads often feel like they can’t ask for the flexibility they need. * Why Emma believes supporting dads in taking a more active role at home is essential for true gender equity. * Practical strategies for parents to communicate more effectively, share responsibilities, and set up their families to thrive—just like you would with a successful business. * How Emma’s work helps both mothers and fathers find the balance they need to feel fulfilled at home and at work. This conversation is packed with wisdom and practical advice for any working parent. Whether you’re a mum trying to find balance, a dad wondering how to ask for more flexibility, or just someone who supports working families, this episode is a must-listen. Where to Find Emma:Website: Works for Everyone [https://www.worksforeveryone.com]Instagram: @worksforeveryone [https://www.instagram.com/worksforeveryone] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit hellohumanbyrachelklaver.substack.com/subscribe [https://hellohumanbyrachelklaver.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

The Small Business Owner Podcast Ep2- Renee Joblin

The Small Business Owner Podcast: Episode 2 - Choosing to Focus with Renee Joblin, Joblin Engineering IntroductionWelcome back to The Small Business Owner Podcast. I’m Rachel Klaver, and in this episode, I’m chatting with Renee Joblin from Joblin Engineering. Renee’s story is one that many of us as small business owners can relate to—the challenge of balancing more than one business and the difficult decision to let one go so you can focus entirely on the other. We’ll dive into her journey, the reasons behind her choice, and the impact it’s had on both her business and personal life. The Dual Business JuggleRenee Joblin wasn’t just running one business, she was managing two. Alongside her partner Gareth, she was helping grow their family business, Joblin Engineering, while also operating her own health and safety consultancy, Atalia. But balancing both eventually took its toll, especially when Renee had a baby. She openly shared how it felt like she was stretching herself too thin, trying to grow two businesses while also managing life as a new mother. “I was working full-time on Joblin Engineering and running Atalia at the same time. I was doing both during my pregnancy too. But it just got to the point where I couldn't sustain it all, and I had to choose,” Renee shared. The Decision to Let Go of AtaliaFor Renee, the choice to step back from her consultancy, Atalia, wasn’t an easy one. Atalia was growing well, and there was demand for her expertise. However, when she looked at both businesses, she had to think about what made sense for the long-term. “Atalia was growing, but so was Joblin Engineering. Joblin had bigger overheads and higher demands, but it was also the business that could provide the stability we needed for our family’s future. I had to be practical about where my energy went,” Renee said. This practical approach meant slowly letting go of her clients in Atalia and referring them to other consultants she trusted. It was a gradual process but one that ultimately gave her the space to dive fully into Joblin Engineering. The Impact on Joblin EngineeringBy focusing entirely on Joblin Engineering, Renee and her partner were able to grow the business more intentionally. Renee handles everything on the business side—strategy, marketing, quoting, invoicing—while Gareth focuses on the hands-on engineering work. “I love that I’m part of a business in a male-dominated industry, running the strategy and making things happen behind the scenes. Gareth’s great at the work, and together, we make it work.” Renee also shared how they’ve structured their business with an eye on the future. While they’re dedicated to growing it now, they’re also thinking ahead about ways to make the business less dependent on them, even considering the possibility of selling or stepping back at some point. Personal and Professional GrowthLetting go of Atalia wasn’t just about focusing on Joblin Engineering; it was about creating balance in her life. Renee admitted that running two businesses was exhausting, and the shift allowed her to put her energy where it was needed most. Now, she’s able to grow Joblin Engineering with a clear head and a sense of purpose, without the constant pressure of juggling two ventures. As we talked, it became clear that Renee’s decision wasn’t just about business—it was about making a choice that served both her family and her personal well-being. It’s a lesson many of us can learn from: sometimes, to truly grow one thing, we have to let something else go. Key Takeaways * Balance is Key: Running multiple businesses can be rewarding, but it can also lead to burnout. Knowing when to focus on one is crucial for long-term success. * The Power of Letting Go: Sometimes, the hardest decisions—like stepping back from a growing business—are the most necessary. It’s about prioritizing what will serve you and your goals in the long run. * Teamwork in Business: Renee and Gareth have built a strong dynamic at Joblin Engineering, each focusing on their strengths. Having clear roles in the business allows them to grow together. * Long-Term Vision: Renee and Gareth aren’t just thinking about now; they’re planning for the future. Whether it’s building a business that can eventually run without them or considering an exit strategy, they’re making sure the business grows sustainably. Get in Touch with Joblin EngineeringIf you’d like to learn more about Joblin Engineering, you can check them out online or reach out directly to see how they’re making their mark in the engineering world. Thank you for listening to The Small Business Owner Podcast. Join me again next week for another small business owner conversation (I’m loving this - I hope you are too!) This podcast is now on Apple Podcasts and Spotify if you want to listen there. I’d love to know what you think - would you leave a comment below? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit hellohumanbyrachelklaver.substack.com/subscribe [https://hellohumanbyrachelklaver.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

THE SMALL BUSINESS OWNER PODCAST. Ep 1: Helen Laidlaw, Business Advisor

Look this is indulgent of me I already have a podcast - which is relaunching this week (PLEASE LOOK OUT FOR CONFIDENT CONTENT [http://www.confidentcontentpodcast.com] THIS FRIDAY - ON ALL GOOD PODCAST PLATFORMS) But I want to talk to small business owners and ask them questions And I want it to be manageable. And not use my podcast editor so I have to justify the expense etc… And do it in a way that means if I miss a week - I miss a week So this is my new podcast, hosted right here on SUBSTACK (And I’ll go back to my podcast closet next week - I recorded this one in my bedroom because, in all honesty, I was rushing back from planting out a bunch of zucchini and I ran out of time to set it all up properly. INSTANT regret when I heard the echos on my voice. FORGIVE ME) I hope you enjoy this first episode! What do you think? THE SMALL BUSINESS OWNER PODCAST: EPISODE ONE IntroductionWelcome to the inaugural episode of The Small Business Owner Podcast. It's just me having authentic conversations with small business owners that I love talking to, about why they have their business, what they do, and what it’s like being a small business owner. Today, I’m thrilled to have Helen Laidlaw as my first guest. Helen is a business advisor, and I’m excited to dive into a discussion about her work and the unique challenges of running a business in New Zealand. Who is Helen Laidlaw?Helen Laidlaw is a business advisor based in New Zealand, helping business owners grow their businesses profitably. Unlike the terms business coach or consultant, Helen describes herself as a mix of both. “My goal is to get the business to be better than it was yesterday, but as a result, I also need to work with the business owner,” she explains. I find her perspective fascinating because it reflects a holistic approach, addressing both the business and the person running it. Understanding the Role of a Business AdvisorHelen and I discussed why she identifies as a business advisor rather than a coach or consultant. While coaches typically focus on the personal development of the business owner, and consultants work on specific projects with their expertise, Helen does both. “I work mainly on the business, but to make it better, I also need to work with the owner on changing habits and mindsets,” she says. This blend of roles is what makes her approach so effective. The New Zealand Small Business LandscapeWe talked about the ease of starting a business in New Zealand, which I believe is both a blessing and a curse. It’s great that there’s such a low barrier to entry, but it also means many business owners jump in without the necessary financial literacy. Helen agreed, adding, “The low barriers to entry mean that many jump into business ownership without the necessary financial literacy.” This often leads to confusion between turnover and profit, and a lack of understanding about what makes their business truly profitable. The Financial Literacy GapHelen highlighted the alarming lack of financial literacy among small business owners in New Zealand. She put it quite bluntly: “At least half of the small businesses that exist in New Zealand should not be operating as businesses; they should be employees.” This is because many business owners don’t have a clear understanding of cash flow, budgeting, and the true cost of running a business. The Paintball EffectHelen introduced the concept of the “paintball effect,” where business owners spend money haphazardly, trying different things without a clear strategy. “They’re not sure what works or doesn’t work, so they just spray paint everywhere,” she said. I found this analogy so spot-on because it perfectly describes the chaos that can happen when there’s no plan in place. The Trap of Over-OwnershipWe also discussed the New Zealand mindset of needing to own everything, whether it’s business assets or an office space. Helen pointed out that while ownership is great if you can afford it, leasing is often a better option for those who haven’t yet proven their business model. It’s a mindset shift that can save many small business owners from unnecessary financial strain. Pricing and Value PerceptionOne of the most important topics we covered was pricing. I know this is a big challenge for many business owners. People often undercharge because they’re worried about alienating clients. Helen had some great advice here: “I encourage clients to change their pricing every year because at the end of the day, we've got CPI increase and you pay your wages. Why shouldn't you increase your prices?” It’s about understanding your value and making sure your prices reflect that. The Importance of Asking for HelpWe talked about how crucial it is for business owners to ask for help. I shared my own journey of learning to see asking for help as a strength rather than a weakness. Helen agreed, “Asking for help is a sign of strength because it's actually being wise enough to short-circuit the problem.” It’s something I think all of us, especially in New Zealand, need to remember. Helen's Approach to Business AdvisingHelen shared her approach to working with business owners. She prefers long-term relationships, where she can really get to know a business inside and out. However, she also offers project-based support for businesses that just need help with specific challenges. “If you can’t develop a relationship with me during that initial conversation, then we’re not the right fit,” she says. I love how clear and straightforward she is about this because it’s so important to find the right advisor for your business. Final ThoughtsThis conversation with Helen has been so enlightening. Having a business advisor like her, who can offer both practical guidance and emotional support, is invaluable. Helen emphasized the need for accurate financials and a clear plan, reminding us that financial literacy and planning are key to business success. Key Takeaways * Know Your Numbers: Understanding cash flow, profit margins, and proper budgeting is crucial for any business owner. * Ask for Help: Seeking advice is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s a smart way to avoid pitfalls and make informed decisions. * Be Strategic: Don’t try everything and hope something sticks. Have a clear goal and a plan to achieve it. * Reassess Pricing Regularly: Your prices should reflect your value and the market. Don't be afraid to adjust them as your business grows. * Think Long-Term: Building a relationship with a business advisor can provide the ongoing support you need to navigate the ups and downs of business ownership. Get in Touch with HelenIf you’d like to connect with Helen for business advice, you can reach her at 021 548 082 or find her online by searching “Helen Laidlaw Business Advisor.” (So… what do you think? This is a goer?) Rachel PS: I’m running THIS EVENT [https://identify.ac-page.com/map-it-intensive] in Auckland in November - wanna come? Numbers limited. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit hellohumanbyrachelklaver.substack.com/subscribe [https://hellohumanbyrachelklaver.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

Confident Content: How to Get Your Sales Up and Going Before Content Marketing Kicks In - with Nick Manarangi

One of the worst things about using organic content marketing to build out your business and get those leads in is that it can take time And while it’s happening you still might need to get some leads today. Every time I’ve started a business I’ve had to do some cold calling, or networking to drum up initial leads. It’s hard work! But it works, and that work helps make it possible for me to grow my business while I’m waiting for the content marketing to kick in. Today Nick Manarangi, co owner of Ryze, a digital marketing agency specialising in creating websites, talks to us about his own journey into sales, and gives us three incredible prompts to get more leads from your existing networks. I’m going to be trying one of these myself for a new offer I’m launching later this year because I loved it - and I’ve got a strong aversion to anything that sounds too salesy! So come, learn and then (most importantly) try out on of his three (or ALL THREE) and see those targeted leads come rolling in In this episode we cover: * Why NO is a beautiful word in sales * How to change the way you see sales * What cold emails and phone calls get wrong * Three simple ways you can get new leads and sales  * Why content needs context * How to connect with your ideal customers more naturally in a sales process Important Links Check out Nick’s work here [https://ryze.co.nz/about] Buy Rachel’s Content Marketing planner [https://mymapitmarketing.com/products/the-kind-spider-marketing-planner-downloadable-pdf] Come to Rachel’s Free content strategy workshops [https://www.rachelklaver.com/events] Register interest for Rachel’s content coaching programme [https://www.rachelklaver.com/Group-Coaching-Programmentent-marketing-master/] Get a FREE copy of THE MARKETING FIX [https://identify.ac-page.com/the-marketing-fix] Rachel’s SUBSTACK [https://hellohumanbyrachelklaver.substack.com/] Rachel’s YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/marketingwithrachelklaver] Join the My MAP IT Marketing Strategy School [https://toolbox.identifymarketing.co.nz/my-map-it-marketing-strategy-course/] Become a part of our Facebook group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/MAPITwithRachelKlaver/] Buy your copy of Be a Spider, Build a Web [https://mymapitmarketing.com/products/be-a-spider-build-a-web-sticky-content-marketing-for-small-businesses]   See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit hellohumanbyrachelklaver.substack.com/subscribe [https://hellohumanbyrachelklaver.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]