- 18
- Episodes
- 2024
- First episode
About Success Means Business
On Success Means Business, Journalist and Entrepreneur Nicola Sands speaks to people who have shown tremendous dedication to reach success in their field. In each episode, Nicola uncovers the stories, challenges and triumphs of remarkable people who have carved their path to success through determination, resilience and unwavering commitment. The candid conversations that Nicola has with her guests provide insights into their strategies, setbacks and pivotal moments that have shaped their journeys. Prepare to be motivated and inspired by the multifaceted nature of success and the many ways it can be achieved when you really mean business. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
- Publisher
- Nicola Sands
- Category
- business · education · society & culture
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 11 Apr 2024
- Latest episode
- 3 Jun 2026
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
3 Jun 2026
How To Build An AI Business In 2026 - Travis Ralph-Donaldson
In this episode, @Nicola-Sands (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCAjnJeDyFHzdqJEsXAnqWrw) sits down with AI founder Travis Ralph-Donaldson to unpack what's really happening beneath the hype of artificial intelligence and where the biggest opportunities are emerging for founders and businesses in 2026. From the future of on-device AI to why outcomes matter more than features, Travis shares the lessons he's learned building AI platform Niter and explains how AI is rapidly levelling the playing field for a new generation of entrepreneurs. Whether you're building a startup, exploring AI for your business or simply trying to understand where technology is heading next, this conversation offers practical insights into the future of AI, innovation and entrepreneurship. Subscribe for more conversations with founders, leaders and innovators shaping the future of business. #ai #Manchester #technology #podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
6 Apr 2026
The Hidden Wealth In Your Creative Business (That You're Ignoring) - Erica Wolfe-Murray
In this episode of Success Means Business, Nicola Sands sits down with leading business and innovation expert Erica Wolfe-Murray. Erica's ability to help hundreds of small businesses grow with innovative and varied ideas has earned her a reputation as the 'Delia' of business. Her impressive background as a creative leader and financial director has given her a unique perspective and when it comes to building a business, she's a true powerhouse. One of Erica's key skills is helping businesses to discover the hidden wealth in their company that exists in intellectual property that many business owners often overlook. This episode is packed with insights about her journey, solid advice for anyone wanting to grow their business and some of the smartest ways to outsmart your competitors and fall back in love with what you do. Follow Nicola on Socials https://www.instagram.com/nicolasands70 https://www.instagram.com/appleheadmedia https://www.instagram.com/successmeansbusiness https://linkedin.com/in/nicola-sands-10604a90 https://x.com/nicolasands1 Erica's book "Simple Tips Smart Ideas " can be purchased from https://www.lola-media.co.uk Follow Erica on Socials https://www.instagram.com/ericawolfemurray/ linkedin.com/in/erica-wolfe-murray-a3533016 Website: https://www.lola-media.co.uk email : info@lola-media.co.uk Produced by Applehead Media Creative Studios - develop your own video podcast with us: https://www.appleheadmedia.co.uk email - studio@appleheadmedia.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
15 Dec 2025
How To Build A Business That Thrives Without You And Exit Big - Entrepreneur James Ashford
In this episode of Success Means Business, @Nicola-Sands (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCAjnJeDyFHzdqJEsXAnqWrw) sits down with James Ashford, founder of GoProposal, about his journey from running a marketing agency to creating a software business he sold for a major exit. James shares practical strategies and personal insights such as overcoming pricing challenges, how to productise services and how to feel confident with pricing conversations. He also talks about scaling for growth and how to turn bespoke offerings into scalable systems that help to prepare your business for acquisition. In this candid conversation, James also opens up about the realities of being an entrepreneur. He talks about managing self-doubt, imposter syndrome and the emotional transition after selling a business. The insights he provides are valuable lessons in balancing ambition with family, leveraging technology/AI and cultivating 'unlimited thinking' for success. James is also writing his third book about how to scale fast and exit to guide entrepreneurs through building strong foundations, scaling efficiently and planning exits with confidence. Whether you're building your first business or preparing for your next big exit, this episode is full of actionable advice, inspiration and behind-the-scenes insights from someone who's been there. Follow Nicola on Socials https://www.instagram.com/nicolasands70 https://www.instagram.com/appleheadmedia https://www.instagram.com/successmeansbusiness https://linkedin.com/in/nicola-sands-10604a90 https://x.com/nicolasands1 Follow James on Socials https://www.instagram.com/thejamesashford https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesashford Website: www.jamesashford.com email : james@jamesashford.com Produced by Applehead Media Creative Studios - develop your own video podcast with us: https://www.appleheadmedia.co.uk email - studio@appleheadmedia.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
1 Dec 2025
How To Network Successfully: Dos & Don'ts With Cheshire Business Connector Joanna Scott Aspray
In this episode of Success Means Business @Nicola-Sands (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCAjnJeDyFHzdqJEsXAnqWrw) sits down with Joanna Scott-Aspray, CEO of The Cheshire Club, one of the region's most renowned and rapidly expanding business network groups. If you've ever wondered how to walk into a room full of strangers and walk out with opportunities, friendships or even a little magic, this episode is for you. Joanna shares the honest truth about what makes networking actually work: the relaxed atmosphere, the genuine conversations and the courage to simply listen. From hilarious don't like shoving business cards at people, to the transformative power of authentic relationships, Joanna reveals the art of connecting without the awkwardness. She also opens up about the challenges of growing a fast-expanding networking brand, navigating personal hardship whilst running a business and why visibility, confidence and community matter more now than ever. Whether you're an introvert, an extrovert, a business owner or someone who's just curious about how connections shape success, Joanna's wisdom will leave you inspired, empowered and ready to enter the right rooms with the right mindset. It's a conversation that's honest, uplifting and full of actionable networking gold! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
2 Nov 2025
Stop Taking Every Client! The Smart Way to Grow Your Agency With Jonathan Leafe.
In this episode of Success Means Business, @Nicola-Sands (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCAjnJeDyFHzdqJEsXAnqWrw) sits down with agency founder, bestselling author, and leading business coach Jonathan Leafe to uncover the real truth about running a creative agency. From the accidental beginnings of many agencies to the systems, strategies, and mindset shifts that drive real growth, Jonathan shares candid insights every agency owner needs to hear. We explore: Why most agencies fail - and how to avoid it The hidden power of operational systems and processes How to adapt in an AI-driven world without losing the human touch Whether you’re building your first agency or planning your exit, this episode is packed with practical strategies and hard-earned wisdom to future-proof your business. If you want to thrive in the creative industry, this is one conversation you can’t afford to miss. You can purchase Jonathan's latest book "I'm an Agency Owner, Get Me Out Of Here!" with this link https://amzn.eu/d/enfJNfG Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/g_wfwk0zGJc Follow Nicola on Socials https://www.instagram.com/nicolasands70 https://www.instagram.com/appleheadmedia https://www.instagram.com/successmeansbusiness https://linkedin.com/in/nicola-sands-10604a90 https://x.com/nicolasands1 Produced by Applehead Media Creative Studios - develop your own video podcast with us: https://www.appleheadmedia.co.uk email - studio@appleheadmedia.co.uk Follow Jonathan on Socials https://www.instagram.com/jonathanleafe http://linkedin.com/in/jonathanleafe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
21 Jul 2025
Leadership Expert Blaire Palmer
Blaire Palmer is one of the UK's top leadership coaches, a best selling author and a keynote speaker. She works with organisations and individuals to help them drive real change in their businesses and create places where people can come and do their best work. In this episode, Blaire talks to Nicola Sands about the many challenges of leadership in an ever-changing landscape as well as the incredible opportunities that are currently presenting themselves. The world has changed so much in recent years that if we want to create a vibrant company where our people are solving complex problems, stepping up and taking ownership and giving us the edge in a tough market, we need to rethink what it means to lead today. This insightful conversation explores how to engage and motivate people, how to improve retention, attract the right talent and confidently lead through change. Blaire draws on her real experiences working with businesses across different sectors to present a new kind of leadership that is based on authentic human connection, trust, empowerment and continual innovation. If leadership is part of your role, this is a conversation you won't want to miss! You can purchase Blaire's book with this link https://amzn.to/4lE3NRp Follow Nicola on Socials https://www.instagram.com/nicolasands70 https://www.instagram.com/appleheadmedia https://www.instagram.com/successmeansbusiness https://linkedin.com/in/nicola-sands-10604a90 https://x.com/nicolasands1 Produced by Applehead Media Creative Studios - develop your own video podcast with us: https://www.appleheadmedia.co.uk email - studio@appleheadmedia.co.uk Follow Blaire on Socials https://www.instagram.com/blairepalmercoach https://www.linkedin.com/in/Blaire Palmer 00:00 Intro to Blaire Palmer 02:10 How I started my career 06:46 The people I work with 10:02 How leadership is changing 16:08 Working from home 20:20 The importance of connection 25:00 Stop thinking, just do 29:00 Women in male industries 33:30 Avoiding burnout 36:00 The new opportunities 39:00 Presenting yourself 43:31 Plans for the future Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
16 Apr 2025
Financial Awakening With Self-Made Millionaire Diane Watson
Diane Watson is an award-winning entrepreneur, leading financial advisor and best selling-author. In this episode, Diane talks about her own path to success and how sheer determination and focus took her from humble beginnings to tremendous success in a male dominated environment. Diane has been a practising financial planner since 1994 and grown a successful business whilst balancing family life. She understands first hand the challenges and pitfalls of being a successful female leader and also how it can feel to to show up and shine at work feeling financially secure. With an unshakable belief in empowering women to achieve financial independence, Diane has dedicated her career to guiding individuals towards a secure and prosperous future and opens up to Nicola about some of the main pitfalls to look out for. Through her career, Diane has seen first hand far too many women abdicate responsibility for their finances to their partners. The realisation that many women were being severely impacted by their lack of knowledge or input into shaping their financial future was the catalyst to write her book, 'She Can Prosper' and to create a whole ecosystem of events and resources around it. This episode is packed with value and insights and if you've been sleeping on your finances, you won't want to miss it. As Diane says, 'money is a cruel mistress' who needs constant attention. Learn how to take control of your finances and your future self will be forever grateful. Follow Nicola on Socials Instagram - nicolasands70 / appleheadmedia / successmeansbusiness LinkedIn - Nicola Sands X - nicolasands1 Produced by Applehead Media Creative Studios - make your own video podcast with us: www.appleheadmedia.co.uk Follow Diane on Socials https://www.instagram.com/shecanprosper https://www.facebook.com/shecanprosper https://www.linkedin.com/company/shecanprosper https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianewatsonsjp https://www.shecanprosper.com https://www.youtube@SheCanProsper Diane's book: "She Can Prosper" available on Amazon 00:00 Intro to Diane Watson 01:36 Starting out in finance 03:54 Career Path 05:39 Starting my own company in finance 09:40 Networking 10:40 Work life balance 13:33 Selling the business 15:51 Surround yourself with the right people 21:48 No longer the boss 26:10 The little things that add up with finance planning 30:08 Winning an award 30:40 Helping women with finances 38:30 Hopes for the future Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
27 Jan 2025
Leading Innovation Expert - Gillian Kavanagh
In this episode, Nicola is joined by Innovations and Growth Specialist Gillian Kavanagh. Gillian is an experienced entrepreneur who currently works for Innovate UK to help ambitious business owners who want to innovate and grow. Gillian has a rich background when it comes to spotting talent in the business world and has helped the careers of some very well known entrepreneurs including Alexander McQueen and Jimmy Choo. She is passionate about helping founders to flourish, protect and monetise their ideas and increase their revenues. Gillian's work for Innovate UK enables her to support a wide range of businesses and entrepreneurs with access to funding, information and advice. In this interview, Gillian talks about her work helping business owners, how she believes these are THE most exciting times to be an entrepreneur and why you need to make sure you've taken some key actions to make sure you keep ownership of your ideas. Disclaimer: All support information discussed in this podcast was accurate at the time of recording. Follow Nicola on Socials Instagram - nicolasands70 / appleheadmedia / successmeansbusiness LinkedIn - Nicola Sands X - nicolasands1 Follow Gillian on Socials LinkedIn - Gillian Kavanagh Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
9 Dec 2024
Insurance Entrepreneur Carole Nash
Entrepreneur Carole Nash OBE shares her remarkable journey from innovating motorcycle insurance to building a brand synonymous with trust and reliability through determination and customer-centric approaches.
17 Nov 2024
LinkedIn Sensation Jessica Paul
In this episode, Nicola Sands meets Jess Paul - a dynamic professional actor and branding strategist who has taken the LinkedIn world by storm! In just a few weeks she has amassed thousands of followers and continues to captivate audiences with her unique insights and engaging content. But Jess is more than just a LinkedIn sensation, she's a marketing powerhouse. Leveraging her unique background in showbusiness and PR, Jess helps CEOs and founders to craft their own personal brands that not only resonate by also create opportunities. Her strategic approach combines the art of storytelling with cutting-edge marketing techniques making her an invaluable resource for anyone looking to elevate their brand presence. Join us as we dive into Jess's journey, uncovering the secrets behind her rapid rise on social media and how she helps leaders shine in their industry. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that will ignite your passion for personal branding! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
20 Aug 2024
The Ace Negotiator: Being An Introvert Can Be A Superpower When It Comes To Making Deals
In this episode of @SuccessMeansBusiness (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCAjnJeDyFHzdqJEsXAnqWrw) Nicola Sands sits down with David Murray - a highly skilled negotiator who has agreed hundreds of media deals with the biggest sports federations in the world. For 15 years David was Head Of Sports Rights at the BBC where he negotiated multi million pound deals with major sports rights holders like the Olympics, the Football Association and Formula One. In recent years he has advised both sports federations and broadcasters on sports rights and strategy and he also works with Shoosmiths as a Broadcast and Negotiation Consultant. David applies the many lessons he has learned over the years to teach negotiation at Liverpool University and VSI Executive Education as a private negotiation coach and advisor. He has written two books on the subject and he believes that negotiation skills should be taught in schools. In this episode, David shares some incredible insights into the tried and tested methods he has used to seal multi million pound deals and explains how they can be applied in all areas of business and life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
23 Jul 2024
How to Grow Your Creative Business And Understand Your Value - With Top Business Coach Rob Sethna
Welcome to another wisdom-packed episode of the @successmeansbusiness podcast with me, Nicola Sands. This episode features the fabulous Rob Sethna - an Entrepreneur and Business Coach with 30 years experience in the Creative Sector. After running his own successful businesses, Rob now works for Manchester Growth Company and has helped hundreds of creative businesses in the North West to grow and thrive. I sat down with Rob to talk about all the challenges that creative entrepreneurs face when trying to scale their business. How do you get clients? How do you set your pricing? What are the most common mistakes? Wherever you are on your business growth journey, Rob's advice is invaluable. I hope you like it! instagram: nicolasands70 Applehead Media (own business): appleheadmedia.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
24 Jun 2024
Into The Minds Of Killers
Few detectives could claim to match Bob Taylor's incredible record. His 30 year career saw him head nearly 50 investigations where every killer, rapist and kidnapper he hunted ended up behind bars. In this episode he tells Nicola Sands how this amazing legacy in the police force owes much to his dogged determination and ability to enter the minds of the criminals he tracked. The high profile cases he worked on include arrogant killer Michael Sams, murderer of Julie Dart and kidnapper of Stephanie Slater who boasted that nobody could catch him. Early in his career when he was a sargeant, he also worked on the Yorkshire Ripper case and recalls the chaos and bungling that delayed his capture. Bob headed up the investigation into the murder of Wakefield mum Wendy Speakes and the forensic police work he oversaw on that case led to the capture and conviction of the brutal perpetrator. This is a rare insight into the mindset of an exceptional detective who instinctively knew how to catch a killler. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
11 Jun 2024
Nothing should hold you back!
Ex footballer, Entrepreneur and TV Star Joe Sealey talks candidly to Nicola Sands about his life story, the huge challenges he's faced and his determination to overcome them. Born into a family with a rich legacy in football, Joe is the son of Manchester United footballing legend Les Sealey. A talented footballer in his own right, Joe was signed by West Ham and a promising career beckoned until two devastating events changed the course of his life forever. Over the years, Joe has battled addiction and mental health but a chance meeting in a nightclub saved him from personal destruction. These days Joe is a businessman and a cast member on 'The Real Housewives of Cheshire' - a globally televised show seen in 36 countries. Joe's experiences have given him a unique perspective on addiction and recovery as well as the worlds of football, business and TV. His story is one of resilience, determination and the importance of sharing the reality behind the glamour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
28 May 2024
The Eyewear Stylist
Journalist Nicola Sands meets Dan Scott, one of the UK's leading eyewear stylists who styles people 'from the neck upwards' Featured in the prestigious Financial Times (FT) Dan is quickly becoming a rising star in the optics industry. With a vision to shake up the world of eyewear styling, he is gaining recognition for his unique perspective and fresh ideas. The former pop star's journey to success is nothing short of inspiring. Driven by a passion for stylish and functional eyewear, Dan has travelled the world to seek out the most stylish trends and refine his innovative approach. As he continues to gain momentum in the industry, Dan Scott's transformative styling method is increasingly resonating with consumers looking for something beyond traditional eyewear options. His dedication to pushing boundaries and challenging norms is setting him apart as a visionary in the field of optics. This episode will ensure you never buy glasses in the same way again! @successmeansbuisness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
14 May 2024
The Story Behind The Story: Top Tabloid Journalist Sheron Boyle Lifts The Lid On Reporting Crime
In this episode, Nicola Sands is joined by renowned investigative crime journalist Sheron Boyle on @successmeansbusiness The tenacious journalist who, over four decades has broken countless exclusives in the best selling UK newspapers, has repeatedly proved she is not afraid to confront murderers, con men, cheats and wrong doers. Sheron speaks candidly about the changes she's witnessed in journalism as well as some of the high-profile stories she has worked on throughout her career. She also speaks about why she's proud to be a journalist and provides the inside story on some of the country's most notorious crime stories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
28 Apr 2024
Vanity Is Not A Sin
In this episode, journalist and entrepreneur Nicola Sands is joined in the studio by leading Consultant Plastic Surgeon Andrea Marando to talk about his incredible journey to reach the top of his profession. This is the first time he has ever spoken in such detail about his career, his beliefs and his strategies for success. Mr Marando shares a fascinating insight into the mindset of a cosmetic surgeon at the very top of his game in a social media world obsessed by image. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
11 Apr 2024
Failure Is Opportunity!
In this episode, Nicola Sands meets the northern property powerhouse that is Mark Dransfield. His undiagnosed dyslexia led to him leaving school with just two GCSE's but he went on to build a multi-million pound property empire across the UK. Mark's company, Dransfield Properties has become one of the leading regeneration developers in the country turning blighted and rundown areas into thriving and prosperous communities. Hull born Mark shares the secrets of his success, the challenges he has faced along the way and provides valuable insights for anyone who wants to succeed in the world of business. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
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