Make it Your Business
Hosted by James Murray and Duncan Casey · Duncan Casey
- 18
- Episodes
- Monthly
- Cadence
- 2025
- First episode
About Make it Your Business
Make It Your Business is a podcast for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs who want real, no-BS conversations about the highs and lows of growing a startup. Hosted by Duncan Casey and James Murray, this show covers everything from cash flow struggles to scaling strategies, mental resilience, and everything in between. If you’re tired of the “hustle porn” and want honest, practical advice on making your business work, this podcast is for you.
- Publisher
- Duncan Casey
- Category
- business
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 19 Mar 2025
- Latest episode
- 9 Jul 2026
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
9 Jul 2026
Episode 19 - The Filmmaker’s Guide to Content: How to Stop Boring Your Audience
"Expositional dialogue is always a last resort." In this episode of Make It Your Business, James Murray and his co-host look at content marketing through a cinematic lens. Drawing from 16 years of filmmaking experience, they discuss why standard video content often falls flat and how deep film analysis can help you capture your audience’s imagination. In this episode, we discuss: The Problem with Efficiency: Why Ridley Scott's multi-camera soap-opera setup loses the magic of lighting and shadow. The Cameron Method: Breaking down the hidden subconscious cues in The Terminator techno scene. Emotional Hooks: How to map out camera movements (like floating POVs and extreme close-ups) to sell an experience, whether it's a luxury spa retreat or a rugged Scottish whiskey tour. Actionable Content Tips: Why you need to stop talking at your viewers and start using cutaways and B-roll to deliver exposition on the go. If you're a small business owner looking to create high-tier "hero" films for your brand without being bamboozled by flash-in-the-pan agencies, this conversation is for you. 💬 Enjoyed the episode? Leave us a review on Spotify, share it with a fellow business owner, and subscribe so you never miss an episode!
10 Jun 2026
Episode 18 - The Uncanny Valley: Why AI Content Kills Customer Trust
Are you using AI to build business relationships, or are you accidentally pushing clients away? In Episode 18 of Make It Your Business, James Murray and Duncan Casey break down a realistic framework for business owners navigating AI content production. Duncan shares how he uses modern machine learning for workflow efficiencies like rotoscoping, eye-correction, and ideation, while warning against the trap of "content dumping." Plus, they explore the concept of the "Uncanny Valley" in marketing: why human biology is hardwired to reject synthetic deception, and why keeping your unique human flavor in your blogs, emails, and videos is the ultimate way to build trust and win the long-term SEO game.
19 Mar 2026
Episode 17 - Will AI Kill Hollywood? | Artistry vs. The Algorithm
In this episode of Make It Your Business, James Murray and Duncan Casey dive into the heated debate surrounding AI in the film industry. Triggered by recent comments from Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, the duo explores whether AI is a revolutionary tool for creators or a "slop generator" that threatens the human connection at the heart of storytelling. Duncan, drawing from his experience in the indie film world, challenges the "AI evangelists" who claim traditional Hollywood is dead. They discuss the critical difference between novelty and quality, and why a photorealistic AI clip of Daniel Craig can't replace the empathy of a human narrative. In this episode, we cover: The "Human Condition" Problem: Why AI can mimic movements but can't empathize with the audience. Efficiency vs. Artistry: Using AI for workflows (CGI, rendering, pitch decks) vs. delegating the entire creative process. The "Slop" Phenomenon: How streaming platforms might use AI to create "background noise" content for distracted viewers. Democratizing Filmmaking: How AI can help indie creators with low budgets compete with big studios. The Future of Cinema: Why the "theatrical experience" is the ultimate defense against algorithmic entertainment. Key Moments: 01:25 – Likeness, copyright, and the concerns of A-list vs. "jobbing" actors. 04:13 – The Unanswered Question: How does AI actually improve the audience experience? 07:45 – Why sci-fi and fantasy (like Game of Thrones) rely on human souls, not just pixels. 10:18 – How Duncan uses AI effectively for horror series pitch decks and antagonists. 16:31 – The rise of "Cinematic Lego" and the danger of dual-screen viewing habits. 21:54 – Why "Experience Businesses" (like the cinema) will survive the AI wave.
30 Jan 2026
Episode 14: Everything You Need to Know About the Growth Guarantee Scheme (UK Government Business Loans Explained)
Everything You Need to Know About the UK Government’s Growth Guarantee Scheme (GGS) If you’re a UK business owner or company director looking to understand how the Growth Guarantee Scheme works — this episode breaks it all down. We cover how the GGS compares to previous government schemes like CBILS, Bounce Back Loans (BBL) and RLS, what funding is available, and how to use your loan to strengthen cash flow and fuel growth. We also explore whether you should take a loan or sell equity, how lenders assess new businesses, and why using a specialist finance broker can make a big difference to your approval chances and rates. 📊 Useful Links: 👉 Apply or learn more about GGS Business Loans: https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk/services/business-cashflow-loans/ (https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk/services/business-cashflow-loans/) 👉 Download your Free Cash Flow Forecast Calculator: https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk/cashflow-forecast-worksheet/ (https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk/cashflow-forecast-worksheet/) 💡 Topics Covered (Chapters Below) What is the Growth Guarantee Scheme? Who qualifies and how much can you borrow? GGS vs selling shares or equity The best ways to spend your loan for ROI How GGS differs from the Government Start Up Loan Tips if your business can’t get finance How much to borrow and when to apply 🎙️ Hosted by James Murray and Duncan Casey – Make It Your Business Podcast Helping UK business owners make smarter financial decisions. Timestamps 00:00 – What is the Growth Guarantee Scheme from the government? 02:30 – The marketing and history of GGS, including CBILS, BBL, and RLS. 06:50 – How GGS works: eligibility, rates, and how much you can borrow. 10:35 – Taking a GGS loan vs selling equity or shares to investors. 14:20 – How to spend your GGS loan for the best return on investment. 18:20 – Is the Government Start Up Loan the same as a GGS loan? 22:14 – Does being a homeowner help you get a new business loan? 25:40 – What to do when your business can’t get finance. 26:40 – What is the best loan to get as a new business? 32:45 – How much should I borrow on a business loan? Should I max out a lower rate? 36:10 – Avoid short-term “loan shark” lenders: why business loans require a specialist broker. 40:15 – When is the best time to apply for a business loan?
29 Jan 2026
Episode 13: How to Fix Cash Flow and Fund Business Growth
Cash flow tight even though your business is growing? You might be overtrading which is one of the biggest hidden risks for UK SMEs. In this episode of Make It Your Business, James Murray, founder of James Murray Finance, shares the same insights and systems he uses with his clients to help them fix cash flow problems and fund business growth the smart way. In this episode we uncover:What overtrading actually means and the early warning signsHow to choose the right business finance — from invoice finance to working capital loansWhen equity or debt makes sense (and when it doesn’t)Smart ways to manage supplier terms, deposits and JV dealsReal solutions used by UK business owners every day Whether you’re scaling fast or struggling to stay ahead of bills, this episode will help you understand your numbers, find the right type of funding, and avoid the pitfalls that catch so many growing companies. 👉 Learn more or get help with your business finance:https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk Chapters:00:00 - Introduction01:04 - Overtrading: what it is, why it happens and warning signs11:57 - Outline finance options and why people explore debt14:50 - Bootstrapping, examples like James Dyson, and what it means16:25 - Invoice Finance, Discounting and Factoring explained – including bad debt protection and credit control20:08 - Cash Flow Loans, Working Capital finance and unsecured loans23:30 - Equity and investors – the pros and cons of selling shares26:54 - Payday-style business loans – pitfalls and risks for UK businesses29:55 - Secured Finance – benefits of asset finance and ownership over renting33:00 - Smart Solutions – creative ways to manage cash flow and supplier terms38:00 - Outro – final tips and questions to take away
29 Jan 2026
Episode 15: Is Passive Income Dead? The New Rules of Evergreen Products in 2026
In this episode of Make It Your Business, James and Duncan break down the real role of lead magnets in modern business — and why they’re often confused with genuinely evergreen products. We explore what “evergreen” actually means in 2026, why it’s not the same as passive income, and how the landscape has changed now that AI, content saturation, and shifting buyer expectations have reshaped what works (and what doesn’t). From celebrity evergreen models to hybrid approaches that blend automation with real human value, this episode offers a grounded look at what still sells, what still attracts, and how business owners can build assets that pull people in year after year. We also share practical tools, including The 5 R’s Test, to help you assess whether your idea has true long-term legs. Whether you're creating tools, templates, downloads, calculators, or full product suites, this episode will help you think strategically about building assets that actually last. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Lead Magnets and Evergreen 01:25 – What Is an Evergreen Product? 09:00 – Challenges of Evergreen and Lead Magnets in 2026 13:00 – Celebrity Evergreen vs Normal Business Models 19:08 – Hybrid Models: Add Value, Educate, and Use Lead Magnets to Support Sales 23:15 – How to Know If Your Evergreen Is Sustainable (The 5 R’s)
17 Sept 2025
Episode 12: Marketing Secrets I Learned From Launching My Own Business Magazine
James Murray shares insights into launching Modern Business Magazine, discussing its role as a marketing tool, SEO strategies, content budgeting, and effective prospecting, revealing innovative approaches to business promotion in this interview.
1 Sept 2025
Episode 11: The Future of Remote Working: What Does It Mean For Your Business?
UK business owners James Murray and Duncan Casey interview industry experts on the evolving future of remote and hybrid work, offering insights for business leaders.
6 Aug 2025
Episode 10, The Power of Storytelling for Business Success: Connect, Inspire and Persuade
Co-hosts James Murray and Duncan Casey explore the power of storytelling for UK business owners, emphasizing human connection and practical tips to build trust and convert leads in today's marketing landscape.
17 Jul 2025
Episode 9: Behind the Scenes of a Luxury Promo Video – What Really Happened?
Duncan Casey recounts to James Murray the behind-the-scenes realities of producing a luxury promotional video for MacLean & Bruce, revealing key lessons in storytelling and brand elevation in this interview.
2 Jul 2025
Niche vs Generalist – Which Is Better for Business Owners? Make it Your Business Episode # 8
Hosts Duncan Casey and James Murray examine the niche versus generalist debate for business owners, exploring examples across industries to help entrepreneurs define their unique selling proposition in an evolving market.
2 Jul 2025
How to Plan a Promo Video: Budgeting, B-Roll & Business Strategy - MIYB Episode 7 #podcast #business
Hosts James Murray and Duncan Casey discuss the practical logistics of producing a business promo video, including budgeting, project planning, and B-roll strategy, in this interview episode.
28 May 2025
The 3 Business Mistakes That Cost the Most (and How to Avoid Them)
Hosts Duncan and James analyze the critical business errors of over-trading, spreading too thin, and ignoring cash flow, providing listeners with strategies to achieve sustainable growth and financial stability.
14 May 2025
The Truth About Business Networking – Tips No One Tells You - Make it Your Business
Welcome back to Make It Your Business! In this episode, James Murray and Duncan Casey unpack the real truth about business networking… the good, the bad, and the occasionally awkward. From overcoming the fear of walking into a room full of strangers to crafting a memorable 30-second pitch, we dive into what actually works when it comes to networking in the UK. Whether you're attending BNI, joining a business club, or just getting started on LinkedIn, this episode is full of first-hand advice and proven tips that can help you build genuine relationships and win more business. We also share personal stories (including a few cringeworthy ones), how to measure your return on networking time and spend, and why a branded hoodie might be your secret weapon. Plus, how to find the right group for your industry, how to avoid the “hard sell,” and ways to become the person others want to talk to at any event. 👥 If you're a UK business owner, freelancer, or founder looking to grow your network without feeling like a salesperson, this one’s for you. Timecodes 00:00 - Intro: Why Business Networking Matters 01:13 - The Downsides of Networking: Time Wasters & Pitfalls 06:22 - Business Clubs vs Traditional Networking 08:40 - Is Networking Worth It? Measuring ROI 10:18 - What Makes You Memorable in a Room 12:25 - Traits of a Good Networker: Listening Over Talking 14:35 - Why You Can’t Speak to Everyone 16:10 - The Dread of Walking In: Breaking the Ice 18:05 - Wear Your Brand: Clothing Hacks for Networking 19:55 - Mastering the 30-Second Elevator Pitch 23:50 - Lunch & Learn Events: Are They Worth It? 26:40 - Real-Life Story: What Not to Do at a Networking Event 30:49 - Barriers to Entry: Make It Easy to Follow Up 32:20 - Leveraging LinkedIn for Networking 35:40 - Speak Up: Becoming a Presenter at Events 40:45 - Final Thoughts: Just Start — Networking Pays Off 🔗 Learn more about your hosts: James Murray Finance: https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk (https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk/) Copper Sprocket Content Marketing: https://www.coppersprocketcontent.com (https://www.coppersprocketcontent.com/) 🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone else navigating the wild ride of business ownership. We’d love to hear from you—drop a comment or message us with your thoughts!
30 Apr 2025
Social Media Secrets For UK Business Owners! – Make It Your Business – Episode #4
Welcome back to Make It Your Business! In this episode, James Murray and Duncan Casey dive into the real-world experiences of using social media as a UK business owner. From winning enquiries through TikTok to navigating the evolving landscape of digital marketing, they share practical tips, challenges, and strategies for entrepreneurs, start-ups, and SMEs. We cover which social media platforms work best for small businesses, how to stay authentic on camera, when to hire a marketing expert, and why writing a blog can massively boost your SEO. Plus, we discuss using AI tools, the importance of knowing your audience, and clever ways to approach B2B outreach. If you’re a business owner in the UK looking to grow your brand online without wasting time or money, this episode is packed with actionable advice based on real experience — not theory! 👔 Whether you're a start-up founder, a growing SME, or just starting to explore digital marketing, Make It Your Business gives you honest conversations designed to help you succeed. Timecodes 00:00 - Introduction & Podcast Purpose: Social Media 01:45 - I Got an Enquiry from TikTok 03:07 - Duncan Explores New Tactics: B2B Outreach Strategies 06:35 - Today's Topic: Social Media Tactics for Small Businesses 09:48 - Different Platforms: Client Avatars and Content Placement 18:42 - Startups & SMEs: Key Marketing Moves for New Businesses 26:39 - Employing a Marketing Expert: Should You Hire or DIY? 27:10 - Video for Marketing: Why Authenticity Matters 31:26 - Knowing Your Audience: Does Accent Affect Trust? 33:21 - Advertising vs Marketing: What’s the Difference? 35:41 - Best Social Media Platforms for Business 38:54 - Writing Blogs: Boost Your Business SEO 41:07 - Using CapCut: Easy Video Editing for Businesses 42:50 - Should You Use AI to Create Your Content? 🔗 Learn more about your hosts: James Murray Finance: https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk (https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk/) Copper Sprocket Content Marketing: https://www.coppersprocketcontent.com (https://www.coppersprocketcontent.com/) 🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone else navigating the wild ride of business ownership. We’d love to hear from you—drop a comment or message us with your thoughts!
16 Apr 2025
How Do You Run a Business AND Raise a Family? – Make It Your Business – Episode #3
Parenting and entrepreneurship: can you really do both? In Episode 3 of Make It Your Business, UK-based small business owners James Murray (finance broker) and Duncan Casey (content marketing producer) share the real-life struggles and strategies of raising children while building their businesses. Expect honest chat on cash flow, mental health, seeking investment, content marketing, and how to grow sustainably—without losing your mind. Perfect for UK entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and anyone balancing ambition with everyday life. Episode Overview In this episode of Make It Your Business, James Murray and Duncan Casey dive deep into the chaos and clarity of running a small (or micro!) business while raising young children. From sleepless nights to strategic investments, this brutally honest conversation strips away the glossy entrepreneur façade and gets real about what it’s like to juggle family life with startup ambitions. If you’re a UK business owner, parent, or aspiring entrepreneur wondering how to build something sustainable without burning out, this one’s for you. You’ll hear candid stories, practical tips, and refreshingly honest perspectives from two founders navigating it in real time—not from the top, but from the trenches. Timecodes 00:00 - Intro & podcast purpose: The problem with advice from people who’ve "made it" 01:40 - Meet your hosts: James introduces himself and explains what James Murray Finance does 02:20 - Parenting & public sector partners: Balancing home life with startup pressures 04:51 - Seek counsel, not opinions: Why you shouldn’t take advice from Dave down the pub 06:57 - Business & burnout: Maybe the kids are sleeping, but you’re not 11:32 - Risk, reward & growth: There's always going to be an element of risk, but it depends on your business model 15:30 - Cash flow & investment mindset: Playing the £100k fantasy business game 17:15 - LinkedIn & cold outreach: James reflects on his experience with Sales Navigator 20:24 - Bootstrapping & CRM alternatives: Finding smarter ways to grow 21:09 - What makes great content?: A videographer might make it look pretty, but can they tell a story? 24:34 - Branding, ROI & storytelling: Why message clarity matters before pressing record 27:15 - Content strategy dilemma: Is there a strategy to just pick a platform and master it? 30:55 - Local reach or national play?: Who are you going to sell to, and what does that mean for your content? 34:55 - Vanity metrics vs business metrics: Why quality of views beats quantity 37:05 - Wrap-up & quote of the week: "Give away the secret. Sell the implementation." 🔗 Learn more about your hosts: James Murray Finance: https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk (https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk/) Copper Sprocket Content Marketing: https://www.coppersprocketcontent.com (https://www.coppersprocketcontent.com/) 🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone else navigating the wild ride of business ownership. We’d love to hear from you—drop a comment or message us with your thoughts!
8 Apr 2025
Adolescence & The Spring Budget - Make it Your Business Episode 2
Make It Your Business – Episode 2: The Filmmaking and Cultural Impact of AdolescenceEpisode Summary In this episode, we take a deep dive into Adolescence, the new Netflix drama that has everyone talking. As filmmakers, we examine the show’s storytelling techniques, cinematography, and direction—what works, what doesn’t, and what makes it stand out. We also discuss its broader cultural impact and explore what marketers can learn from its success. Filmmaking Insights: How Adolescence uses visual storytelling, pacing, and character development to create an immersive experience. Cultural Relevance: Why the show resonates with audiences and the themes that make it so compelling. Marketing Lessons: What brands and content creators can take from the show’s success, including audience engagement strategies and the power of strong narrative branding. Watch Adolescence on Netflix Behind-the-scenes featurette (if available) Previous episode: [Episode 1 – The Reality of Starting a Business] Join the conversation! Let us know your thoughts on Adolescence and what you took away from it. Follow us on social media and don’t forget to subscribe for more insights into filmmaking, culture, and marketing. Key TakeawaysLinks & Mentions
19 Mar 2025
The Reality of Growing a Startup - Make it Your Business Episode #1 - Duncan Casey & James Murray
In the debut episode of Make It Your Business, Duncan and James dive into the real, unfiltered struggles of growing a startup. From navigating cash flow issues to handling imposter syndrome, this episode is packed with honest insights and hard-learned lessons. Join us as we share our experiences, mistakes, and strategies to help fellow business owners and entrepreneurs push through the toughest stages of building a business. In This Episode, We Discuss: The hardest challenges we faced in our first year of business The mental game of entrepreneurship: dealing with stress, doubt, and burnout Balancing ambition with realistic growth How to know when to pivot or push through The biggest lessons we’ve learned so far 👉 Follow us for more real-talk on entrepreneurship!
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