business innovation

Katrena Friel

Katrena Friel Reveals Business Transformation Roadmap on Talk Commerce

In this episode of Talk Commerce, host Brent Peterson connects with Katrena Friel, a Sydney-based business expert who has spent 25 years helping entrepreneurs transform their career aspirations into thriving businesses. The conversation unveils valuable insights about personal branding, business development, and a roadmap for entrepreneurial transformation.

Key Takeaways

  • Business success requires basic to intermediate computer skills in today’s digital landscape
  • The ideal time to start a business is while maintaining current employment
  • Personal branding can generate seven streams of income within 90 days
  • COVID-19 catalyzed business innovation and entrepreneurial creativity
  • Technology platforms should prioritize ease of use and comprehensive functionality

About Katrena Friel

With 25 years of experience, Katrena Friel leads Becoming the Expert, a comprehensive business development service that transforms entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Her approach combines strategic planning, technical implementation, and ongoing coaching support. Based in Sydney, Australia, she specializes in helping professionals, particularly those over 40, transition from traditional employment to successful business ownership.

Detailed Episode Summary

The conversation begins with Katrena sharing her journey of developing a refined business development process. She explains how her service evolved from group coaching to a hands-on “done-for-you” approach after recognizing that many aspiring entrepreneurs needed more practical support.

Katrena’s ideal clients typically possess solid computer skills and are often professionals seeking fulfillment beyond traditional employment. She emphasizes working with entrepreneurs before they’ve invested significant time and resources in potentially misguided directions.

The discussion explores how economic challenges can present unexpected opportunities. Katrena notes that during COVID-19, her business experienced unprecedented growth as people reassessed their career paths and prioritized personal fulfillment.

Personal Commentary and Analysis

Katrena’s approach reflects a deep understanding of the modern entrepreneurial landscape. Her emphasis on maintaining employment while building a business demonstrates practical wisdom, allowing entrepreneurs to validate their business models before making major career changes.

The focus on technical competency highlights an often-overlooked aspect of modern entrepreneurship. While many business coaches focus solely on strategy, Katrena’s recognition of the importance of technical skills shows her practical, results-oriented approach.

Memorable Quotes

“Through adversity comes creativity and innovation.” – Katrena Friel

“My belief is that you step into the beginning of your peak at 40.” – Katrena Friel

“You can have just a whole business that is your personal brand that you can have seven streams of income attached to.” – Katrena Friel

Engaging the Audience

To learn more about transforming your business ideas into reality, visit becomingtheexpert.com.au for a free discovery session with Katrena. This opportunity allows potential clients to explore their business dreams with an experienced guide who understands both the strategic and technical aspects of modern entrepreneurship.

Final Thoughts

This episode underscores the importance of combining technical competency with strategic vision in modern entrepreneurship. Katrena’s practical approach to business development offers a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to transform their career trajectories.

Listen to more conversations with entrepreneurs here

Connect with Katrena on your favorite platform:

Website www.becomingtheexpert.com.au

Free Discovery Session FREE DISCOVERY SESSION | Becoming the Expert

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrenafriel

Instagram (@katrenafriel)

FB Katrena Friel

Marianela Nanninga

Revolutionizing Retail: How Commercial Robotics is Reshaping Customer Service with ToDo Robotics

Hey there, Brent Peterson here! On this exciting episode of Talk Commerce, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Marianela Nanninga, the innovative founder and CEO of ToDo Robotics. Her journey from spotting a simple serving robot in South Korea to deploying over 250 commercial robots across America is nothing short of remarkable.

The Entrepreneurial Spark

When Marianela shared her story of discovering that first robot in a South Korean restaurant, I couldn’t help but smile. It reminded me of how transformative moments in technology often start with a simple observation. She saw beyond the novelty of a slow-moving serving robot to envision a future where commercial robotics would revolutionize multiple industries.

Breaking Through Corporate Barriers

What struck me most about Marianela’s journey was her persistence. After developing a successful robotics program within a larger company, she faced rejection from the board. Instead of giving up, she recognized her unique position – she was the only one with the knowledge, experience, and vision to make it happen. This led to her founding ToDo Robotics, a decision that has proven transformative for the industry.

Real-World Applications

During our conversation, Marianela highlighted several key applications:

  • Restaurant Service: The Bellabot serves as a reliable food runner, supporting (not replacing) wait staff
  • Commercial Cleaning: Industrial-scale robots handling 20,000 square feet per hour
  • Cooking Systems: Automated woks ensuring consistency in institutional kitchens
  • Senior Living Support: Robots facilitating telemedicine and resident check-ins

The Human Element

One aspect I particularly appreciated was Marianela’s emphasis on workforce development. As she explained, “We’re not replacing workers; we’re upgrading their skills.” The story of a housekeeper proudly becoming a robot operator perfectly illustrates this transformation.

Looking Ahead

The future of commercial robotics is bright but measured. Marianela’s practical approach to AI integration – preferring simplified language models over complex chatty systems – shows a deep understanding of what businesses and customers actually need.

Personal Takeaway

As someone who’s witnessed numerous technological transitions in commerce, I find Marianela’s approach refreshingly practical. It’s not about robots taking over; it’s about making businesses more efficient and jobs more sustainable.

Final Thoughts

This episode of Talk Commerce reinforced my belief that the future of retail and service industries lies in finding the right balance between human touch and technological efficiency. Marianela’s vision of robots as assistants rather than replacements sets a positive trajectory for the industry.

Find more conversations about innovations in commerce here