This episode explores the real challenges facing small businesses in regional Victoria—from rising costs and labour shortages to digital struggles, shifting forestry policy, and increasing compliance burdens.

Drawing on recent local research and direct feedback from business owners across sectors, including trades, retail, agriculture, hospitality, and more, Sam highlights why small businesses are vital to community resilience and what support they urgently need.

Listeners will gain insight into the current pressures, opportunities for collaboration, and the practical steps that government and business networks can take to help regional businesses not just survive, but thrive.

Sources -

• What's Driving SMB Success in 2025: 7 Business Statistics — Salesforce
• Australian Business Statistics 2025: Facts & Industry Insights — Money.com.au
• 55 Insightful Small Business Statistics (2025) — Shopify
• Australian Small Business Insights — Xero US
• Xero data reveals Aussie small business sales volatile in 2025 — Xero
• A Growing Economy — Victorian Budget 25/26
• Esoteric Festival Got Cancelled: What's The Next Steps? — FeedFreq
• Small Business Trends for 2025 — SBAAS
• World Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day 2025 — business.vic.gov.au
• Esoteric Music Festival's Abrupt Cancellation Sparks Outcry and Calls for Reform — Flowmusic.one

Based on feedback and research from regional business owners and advisors across Murrindindi, Mansfield, and Victoria in Sam Hicks’ July 2025 report presented to the Victorian Small Business Commissioner and local government.

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If you love the episode… subscribe, share, and like. I’d love a review, or let me know about a future topic.

While you’re on the website, check out my Small Business Kickstart Kit — it’s a one-page plan, social media calendar, marketing checklist, and Canva templates, all ready to go. Instant download at samhicks.com.au.

Sign up for the 5-Minute Business Boost newsletter, or see how we can work together to achieve your small business goals — whether through mentoring, attending a workshop, or a brief 1-hour course or even your choice of training..

Follow me on social media (@samhickscomau) and remember, anything is possible in business.

#smallbusiness #podcast #newepisode #5minutebusinessboost #tunein #smallbiz #aussiesmallbusiness #samhicks

Ready to move on from your small business?

In this episode, Sam discusses breaking down the essentials of effective exit planning—why starting early matters, the key steps every business owner should take, and practical options for passing the baton.

Whether you’re considering retirement, a sale, or transitioning to a family member, you’ll hear expert tips on maximising value, smoothing the handover, and avoiding common pitfalls.

Get straightforward advice and bite-sized tips to help you plan your exit, protect your legacy, and feel confident about what comes next.

Sources:

How to value a business – business.gov.au

https://business.gov.au/finance/seeking-finance/how-to-value-a-business

Exit your business – business.vic.gov.au

https://business.vic.gov.au/business-information/exit-your-business

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If you love the episode… subscribe, share, and like, I’d love a review or let me know about a future topic.

Head over to the website, samhicks.com.au and sign up for the 5-minute business boost newsletter.

Or see how we can work together to achieve your small business goals, whether through mentoring, attending a workshop, or a brief 1-hour course.

Follow me on social media (@samhickscomau) and remember, anything is possible in business.

In this episode, Sam dives into the legendary career of Ozzy Osbourne—the “Prince of Darkness”—and uncovers powerful lessons in personal branding, resilience, and innovation that every small business owner can apply.

From pioneering heavy metal with Black Sabbath to reinventing himself as a solo artist, reality TV star, and festival creator, Ozzy’s journey is a masterclass in staying true to your brand while adapting to change.

We explore how his authenticity built lifelong fan loyalty, how diversification and bold storytelling expanded his influence, and how his final concert raised £190 million for charities close to his heart.

Plus, we highlight Sharon Osbourne’s pivotal role as the visionary strategist behind his enduring success.

Tune in for actionable takeaways on building a unique brand, turning challenges into opportunities, and leaving a lasting legacy.

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If you love the episode… subscribe, share, and like, I’d love a review or let me know about a future topic.

Visit samhicks.com.au and sign up for the 5-minute business boost newsletter.

Or see how we can work together to achieve your small business goals, whether through mentoring, attending a workshop, or a brief 1-hour course.

Follow me on social media (@samhickscomau) and remember, anything is possible in business.

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Link for the Online Birmingham Condolences Book

Book of Condolence for Ozzy Osbourne (Birmingham City Council):

https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/blog/Ozzy/post/1643/in-remembrance-of-ozzy-osbourne-1948-2025/comment

Sources for Ozzy Osbourne’s final concert and charities

Fox News article: https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/ozzy-osbournes-legendary-final-performance-raised-staggering-190m-worthy-causes

Good News Network report: https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/ozzy-osbournes-final-concert-with-black-sabbath-raised-190-million-for-charity/

Billboard coverage (highest-grossing charity concert): https://www.billboard.com/lists/highest-grossing-charity-concerts-list-ozzy-black-sabbath/

Cure Parkinson’s official statement about the gig: https://cureparkinsons.org.uk/2025/07/black-sabbath-and-ozzy-osbourne-reunite-for-epic-farewell-concert-to-support-three-charities-including-cure-parkinsons/

Charity breakdown and confirmation: https://www.the-independent.com/news/uk/home-news/ozzy-osbourne-black-sabbath-birmingham-beginning-b2794045.html