Welcome to Better Business, Better Life. In this episode, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by Barry LaBov, two-time Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and branding expert, to explore the power of differentiation in business.

Barry introduces the idea of the “Commodity Monster”, the danger of becoming just another option in the market. He shares powerful stories and practical advice on how to identify your business’s key differentiators, use specific language to tell your brand story, and ensure your customer experience lives up to the promise.

If you’re launching a new product, looking to refresh your brand, or simply want to avoid blending in, this episode will show you how to stand out and stay that way.

Tune in to learn how to define your difference, and make sure the world knows about it.

CONNECT WITH DEBRA:        

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►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner

►Connect with Debra: ⁠debra@businessaction.co.nz⁠

►See how she can help you: ⁠https://businessaction.co.nz/⁠      

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GUEST’S DETAIL:

► ⁠LaBov Website⁠

► ⁠Barry LaBov Writes⁠

► ⁠Grab Your Copy of "The Power of Differentiation"⁠

► ⁠Barry LaBov - LinkedIn⁠

Chapters:  

00:35 – Introduction

02:10 - Barry LaBov's Journey and Philosophy

05:40 - The Commodity Monster and Differentiation

09:43 - Examples of Successful Differentiation

18:07 - The Role of Words and Storytelling

30:59 - Practical Tips for Fighting Commoditisation

31:12 - The Importance of Imperfection and Innovation

35:54 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In another episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor is joined by leadership expert and author Kevin Eikenberry to explore what it truly means to lead with flexibility in an ever-changing world. Drawing from his latest book, Flexible Leadership, Kevin unpacks how great leaders adapt their style based on context, not habit—and why that’s more important now than ever.

Together, Debra and Kevin dive into the realities of hybrid work, proximity bias, ego management, and how to balance urgency with long-term vision. Kevin introduces the idea of “flexors”—simple questions that help leaders move beyond their default responses—and explains how staying curious, context-aware, and open to new perspectives can dramatically improve team performance and trust.

Whether you're leading a small team or a growing organisation, this conversation is filled with timely insights and practical tips to help you lead with confidence and clarity in uncertain times.

Tune in to learn how to lead with greater flexibility, curiosity, and confidence.

CONNECT WITH DEBRA:        

___________________________________________        

►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner

►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz

►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/      

____________________________________________        

GUEST’S DETAIL:

► The Kevin Eikenberry Group Website

► Grab a Copy of Kevin's Book - Flexible Leadership

► Kevin Eikenberry - LinkedIn

Chapters:  

00:36 - Introduction

02:27 - Understanding the Concept of Flexible Leadership

04:12 - The Concept of Flexible Leadership

06:52 - Navigating Uncertainty and Leading with Confidence

12:27 - The Role of AI in Leadership

23:06 - Effective Leadership in a Hybrid Work Environment

28:37 - Managing End Runs and Building Trust

33:02 - Challenges for Leaders in a Changing World

44:02 - Practical Tips for Leaders

45:09 - Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of Better Business, Better Life, host Debra Chantry-Taylor welcomes Renee Russo, CEO of Rise Up Business Coaching, to explore the power of aligning personal and business goals. Renee shares her journey of self-discovery, the importance of honoring oneself, and how EOS and Exit Planning can help business owners create value, freedom, and a life of fulfillment.

She discusses key strategies for ensuring a business can thrive independently of its owner, integrating personal, financial, and business goals for long-term success. Renee also introduces insights from her book Ready to Rise, offering practical tools like the "555 Playbook" for personal growth and alignment.

If you're a business owner looking to gain clarity, create a sustainable business, and design a future that aligns with your vision, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom.

Tune in to take the next step toward building a business—and life—that truly works for you.

CONNECT WITH DEBRA:        

___________________________________________        

►Debra Chantry-Taylor is a Certified EOS Implementer | Entrepreneurial Leadership & Business Coach | Business Owner

►Connect with Debra: debra@businessaction.co.nz

►See how she can help you: https://businessaction.co.nz/      

____________________________________________        

GUEST’S DETAIL:

► Rise Up Business Coaching Website

► Ready to Rise - Renee’s Book

► Renee Russo - LinkedIn

Chapters:  

00:22 - Introduction

02:12 - Renee Russo's Journey and Personal Growth

04:35 - Rediscovering Oneself and Business Alignment

10:33 - The Importance of Personal Alignment in Business

13:45 - Exit Planning and Business Value Creation

25:48 - The Role of Advisors and Peer Groups

34:59 - EOS and Exit Planning Integration

41:30 - Practical Tips for Business Owners