In this episode I sit down with award-winning TEDx speaker and business coach Katrena Friel to unpack how a devastating $30,000 scam became the best thing that ever happened to her — and how it launched a 25-year career helping SME owners become recognised experts in their field.

Katrena shares her "Becoming the Expert" program, a 12-month done-for-you journey that takes experienced professionals and turns their knowledge into a published book, a signature talk, and a high-value signature program — all in 90 days of build time.

In this episode you'll learn:

Why building a business is the greatest personal development program you'll ever do

How to identify your unique "field of excellence" and package it correctly

Why writing a book is the #1 confidence and positioning tool for new coaches and consultants

The truth about online courses (and why high-touch 1-on-1 programs convert better)

How Katrena has helped 100% of her clients hit #1 bestseller on Amazon

Whether you're a consultant, coach, or service-based business owner with 1–10 staff, this episode is packed with practical insight on how to stand out, charge your worth, and build a business that reflects who you truly are.

🌐 Find Katrena at: https://becomingtheexpert.com.au

🌐 Find Mike at https://mikesonlineacademy.com

This is a recording from my presentation to the Cofi Business Network session.If you’re having issues with Google Ads, feel like you’re wasting money, not getting leads, or simply don’t understand what’s going on behind the scenes — this is a must-watch.I break Google Ads down in a clear, practical way for real business owners, covering what actually matters, what to avoid, and how to make your ads work smarter, not harder.Perfect for small businesses, founders, and anyone running their own marketing.

Join my community on skool for free at https://mikesonlineacademy.com/skool

Posting daily but getting nowhere?Boosting ads but seeing no return?You don’t need “more marketing”.You need better strategy.Watch this talk delivered to the CR38IVES Club in February 2026

I break down how organic and paid marketing complement each other and how creatives can use both to build momentum without overwhelm.

Learn about paid ads in my community on skool:

https://mikesonlineacademy.com/skool

Visit CR38IVES Club:

Real talk. Real tactics. Real connections.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cr38ives-club-online-networking-event-tickets-1975281842163