Real Talk: What I’ve Learned After 17 Years of Building a Business That Lasts

Let’s get one thing straight — I’ve spent nearly two decades building leaders and businesses that actually work.We’ve coached thousands. We created amazing 100’s of teams and organisations.

I’ve also made many mistakes, some of which were caused by bad advice from people I thought I could trust.

One of my biggest leadership lessons?

👉 Not all coaches, strategists, or advisors are created equal.

Let me give it to you straight.

• I hired a coachI was genuinely excited about. She turned into a nightmare. But she refused to meet face-to-face. Every session needed to be via phone, so I pushed back. There was no real energy, no connection, just flat and awkward. She was distracted and not engaged. Hence, we take our coaching seriously.
• Then came a BD advisor whose actual growth strategy? Spam people. That’s it. No actual business development, no plan, no integrity. Just digital cold-call hell.
• And don’t even get me started on the website and digital strategist who told me to shut down one of my brands — a brand I had poured my heart, time, and vision into. Their advice? Scrap it all and start fresh. Spoiler alert: my LeadershipHQ brand now has a powerful online presence, loyal community, and impact that speaks for itself.

But wait, there’s more…

One “advisor” (I use the term loosely) said this to me: “Your little leadership business won’t last long. There are too many others out there.” Excuse me? WTF?!

Guess what? I’m still here. Still leading. Still growing. And still changing lives.

💡 That’s Why the Right Support is Everything

Bad advice isn’t just annoying. It’s dangerous to your brand, confidence, and business growth. That’s why I’m so proud to be partnering with DG Group — a team that actually understands:

• Great business strategy
• Bold, courageous leadership
• The importance of backing exceptional talent

They get it — and together, we’re going to help others make it happen.

We’re not here to hand out fluff. We’re here to deliver real results, with real people, backed by real experience.

🔥 5 Brutally Honest Tips for Building a Business That Lasts

After 17 years, here’s what I know better than most:

1. Vet your advisors like your business depends on it. Because it does. If their energy is off, their advice is off, or they’re stuck in 2012 — walk away.

2. Build a brand that feels like you. Not someone else’s vision. If you lead with heart, authenticity, and purpose — you’ll stand out even in a saturated market.

3. Don’t let anyone call your business “little.” Your dream doesn’t need their permission. Keep showing up. Keep building. The right people will see your fire.

4. Strategy without soul is useless. Don’t settle for generic plans and spammy tactics. Great strategy is human, bold, and tailored to YOU.

5. Surround yourself with those who believe in you. Not those who try to shrink your vision. Your circle should fan your flames — not throw shade.

🚀 This Partnership is Different. And It Matters.

I built LeadershipHQ because I saw the need for real leadership, not corporate buzzwords and empty programs. Now, with DG Group, we’re taking it up a level.

We’re here to build bold businesses. Support brilliant talent. Lead with heart, courage, and action. And most importantly — make sure no one else has to go through what I did.

Want to build something great? Let’s talk.

Because leadership isn’t about fitting in — it’s about standing out and making it happen.