In this episode of What One Thing?, Phil flips the mic and interviews co-host Hayley Baxter about her journey from burnt-out corporate finance leader to founder of Corbar Accounting.

Hayley opens up about the fears and doubts she faced starting her business, why she didn’t call herself an accountant at first (despite being experienced and qualified!), and how a random taxi ride at a business event helped her build the support network that’s been pivotal to her success.

They chat about:
✔️ Making the leap from employment with no clear plan
✔️ How imposter syndrome shows up even after 20 years’ experience
✔️ Finding your first client through Facebook (and sheer nerve)
✔️ Why networking is a skill, not a personality trait
✔️ The one thing that’s made the biggest difference to Hayley’s business growth

If you’re a business owner navigating early growth — or still stuck on the edge of “should I start?” — this is one to plug into.

🔗 Connect with Hayley on LinkedIn: Hayley Baxter
📸 Instagram: @theoffgridaccountant
💼 Learn more about Corbar Accounting: www.corbar.uk

🔗 Connect with Phil on LinkedIn: Phil Davenport
💼 Learn more about Affirm IT Services: www.affirmit.co.uk

👂 Like what you hear? Follow What One Thing? for weekly real stories and lessons from real businesses on a growth journey.

In this opening episode of What One Thing?, Hayley sits down with co-host Phil Davenport to uncover the story behind his IT business, Affirm IT.

Phil shares how he went from redundancy (just a week before his daughter was born) to building a growing managed service provider — with nothing more than a £250 credit card, one client, and a whole lot of drive.

They cover:
✔️ The mindset shift from employment to business ownership
✔️ How he landed his first client (before he even quit his job)
✔️ Why hiring an apprentice early was a game-changer
✔️ The importance of cultural fit over technical skill
✔️ The one thing that’s rocketed business growth in the past 18 months

Phil’s journey is relatable, honest, and full of moments most business owners will recognise — from self-doubt and burnout to bold decisions and real progress.

🚀 Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, this one’s for you.

🔗 Connect with Phil on LinkedIn: Phil Davenport
💼 Learn more about Affirm IT Services Ltd: www.affirm-it.co.uk

🔗 Connect with Hayley on LinkedIn: Hayley Baxter
💼 Learn more about Corbar Accounting: www.corbar.uk

👂 Follow What One Thing? for weekly real stories and real lessons from real businesses on the grow.