supporting business owners to start up, scale and grow

Oxfordshire Based strategic business improvement
mentor & coach

Supporting business owners to close the gap between the business they have now and the one they desire.

To thrive not just survive 

“Mike actively listens, asks thoughtful questions and gives practical advice based on his vast experience”

I suspect you are here as there is something you want to change. Correct?

Are you like many business owners that I work with who are facing questions today that are different to those they’ve been able to answer in the past?

I’ve been working with business owners for over 30 years – the majority of business owners got to where they are now, finding their way, with true grit and determination. If you’re like most entrepreneurs I support, you’ve been hustling but you’re be experiencing some of these frustrations:

– a lack of control
– you are not charging what you are worth 
– you don’t have enough time and have too many distractions
– you’ve people challenges (employees, customers, suppliers, partners)
– you are not earning what you want or you want to earn more for less hard work
– your work / life balance is not what you want 
– it’s no longer enjoyable
– the feeling of stagnation
– the lack of regular buyers for your solution
– your capacity is impacted as you are giving away so much for free

Here’s the thing……

IF you always do what you’ve always done, then you’ll always get what you’ve always got (unless you get lucky)

Do you want to STOP repeating the same business year on year and accelerate towards the business you want or deserve?

It doesn’t have to be a dream providing you have a map, support and the desire.

for Start Ups

Pre-Start to £100k Revenue

to Scale

£100 – £250k Revenue

for growth

£250k +

My Promise to You

Starting a business is tough – you don’t need fluffy theory or empty motivation. You need guidance that works in the real world. That’s why I promise:

  • Real experience, not theory. I’ve built and run businesses myself, so I understand the pressures, pitfalls, and practicalities of being a founder.
  • Tailored advice, not templates. Your business is unique. I work with you to create strategies that fit your goals, resources, and market.
  • Practical support, not just mindset. Yes, confidence matters but so do cashflow, sales, marketing, and strategy. I’ll give you tools and know-how you can apply straight away.
  • Clear value for your investment. I focus on results that make a measurable difference whether that’s winning clients, improving profitability, or driving your growth platform.
  • Honesty over hype. No false promises of overnight success. Just clear, grounded advice that helps you grow at the right pace.
  • Accountability with action. I won’t just talk at you or ask questions. I’ll work with you to plan, prioritise, and hold you accountable for making progress.
  • Understanding of reality. I’ve been there, so know resources can be limited, so I’ll help you find smart, resourceful ways to achieve more with less.
 
Are you ready to make the changes you know you need to make?
  
 
Entrepreneur (noun, by definition): “a person who sets up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit.” You!
 
Mentor (definition): offers a blend of coaching and startegic advisory support. Not just asking you questions, not ‘telling’, but sharing experience and contributing, to fuel or spark thoughts, ideas and plans. Me!
 
Entrepreneurs Mentor (fact): Mentor+, Coach, Sounding board, Supporter, Motivator. One that brings you a greater return than your investment. An experienced mentor who is also an entrepreneur having started and grown 6 of my own businesses, franchised and sold two. I know your journey, your challenges and align with your emotion.

 

Strategically coaching business owners like you to have the business and lifestyle your hard work deserves.

Are you a business owner who feels stuck or trapped? Does your sales pipeline resemble a rollercoaster, unpredictable and stressful? Perhaps the profits from your business aren’t enough to support the lifestyle you desire and deserve, because the numbers don’t add up. Maybe your day is constantly interrupted because everything hinges on you.

If you feel this way, you are not alone.

You want something to change, but you can’t find the way or the how. You’ve been running your business on repeat but know something needs to change. This can certainly be the turning point. The point where you pause, reflect and give priority to what needs to implement change.

Does it feel like a jigsaw where you can see the picture, but can’t find which piece comes next? 

I’m sure you embarked on this entrepreneurial journey not to just scrape by or be overwhelmed with stress and worry. You aimed for success, and to have the lifestyle you deserve for your hard work. I promise you it is within reach.

Can I ask: What’s the areas of your business that are ‘top of mind’, worrying you, making you procrastinate, frustrating you?
Your Strategy? Your Model? The Plan? Your Marketing & Sales? The Finances? Your Systems and Operations? Your People? 
These are all the ingredients related to your strategic business model and I’d love to help you with my proven receipe.

Of course, I believe you are now in the right place to get the support you need! 
Give me a call and let’s discuss how my broad experience, expertise and practical knowledge can help you make the Step Change needed.

What other business owners say about my impact

"Mike is a brilliant sounding board. I highly value his perspective on things I am pondering in my business. I can rely on Mike always to come up with an alternative way of looking at things, he has a knack of saying something unexpected which has, more than once, completely altered my thinking. Having someone who has the courage and insight to point these things out is absolutely critical as a business owner. I highly recommend Mike as a coach and mentor."
“Mike was instrumental when I first started up, providing valuable tips that had I not learnt early on would have cost me dearly. Mike's an excellent coach if you're looking for someone to tell you how it is and provide you with a non-biased view on your thinking. He can genuinely help to steer your business down the right path and help it flourish."
"Mike has been actively involved in understanding the ins and outs of my business operations. His straightforward communication style is refreshing. He provides honest feedback, and his observations and actions are meticulously documented in a comprehensive report by the end of each day. I appreciate his proactive approach in identifying potential pitfalls early on and collaborating with me to implement effective management strategies.
What sets Mike apart is his exceptional responsiveness. He addresses queries promptly, making the mentorship process smooth and efficient. The regular reviews not only provide valuable insights but also contribute to maintaining accountability."
"Working with Mike has been transformational for my business. He has helped me create clarity in my processes, my message and my purpose. With a relaxed and yet still dynamic approach he guides you through the practicalities of building a strong and sustainable business whilst ensuring you take the actions you need to grow."

"Although I was sceptical at first, thinking we would have 'homework' to do, Mike does not actually work like that at all. He makes us think about priorities for business goals and then discusses how to make them happen in a realistic time scale. I’d say that if you’re stuck in a rut, working in your business - then give Mike a call.”

"I had a business plan but was struggling with what my value proposition was and what my pricing structure should be. I was immediately impressed by Mike's enthusiasm for my new venture, and the vision and passion with which he approached each aspect I was struggling with. Our session together brought me immediate clarity. Thank you Mike."

"I chose Mike because of his genuine desire to support and help his clients. I have worked with many respected senior leaders, and Mike still manages to bring new ideas and approaches. He’s good at encouraging me to focus on high impact activities which don't form a natural part of my skill-set."

"When I started my business, I was fairly sure I didn't need a mentor. I have discovered that it is hugely beneficial to have a mentor that has many years' experience in starting and running successful businesses. Mike is patient, non-judgmental and good fun to work with and I would highly recommend him to anyone. He has already helped me to clear the chaos that inevitably comes in the early stages of developing a business. He has helped me to prioritise what is important, and he has an impressive bank of useful hints, tips and knowledge at his fingertips."

"Mike's flexible approach is invaluable. He very skilfully guided me through areas I was vague and uncommitted on. The result has been that I've made significant progress on defining a new business which is authentically me. Moreover, the process he's taken me through has helped me build my confidence and certainty."

"I leverage Mike's business mentoring as a solid sounding board for my ideas. He is great at allowing me to collate my thoughts and ideas and ensure I stick to my plan. Great for those who feel a lonely founder sometimes."
"Having known Mike for a number of years, at events, networking and both being in Oxfordshire. I went to one of his events and thought 'this guys really does know his stuff'. I have been working now with Mike for 12+ months and would recommend him to any business owner that needs some clarity on there journey. Accountability reports weekly certainly work for me. Thanks Mike"

"

"Mike’s support and guidance have been invaluable since the start of the first UK lockdown. He understood the growing pains I was facing in my business and provided excellent advice during a very difficult time for many. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Mike to any business owner ready to take their business to the next level."

“Mike is well networked in the area and will actively connect and promote the people he knows. His experience with small businesses, generosity with his time and ability to actively promote others will help you develop your business in the way you want to. I am glad I chose Mike.”

"I wanted to take my business to the next level and Mike is the man to do that. Mike's phone is always on and he is not precious with his time. Most importantly my return on investment has been huge, not only the increase in new clients but the development of my business for the long term."

"More than Mike's experience is that he is an incredibly generous and supportive individual. He provides guidance and critiques our current and future business plans, he challenges us on 30 & 90 day goals, in particular making sure that we do not overwhelm ourselves. He is also very positive. I am very confident that with Mike onboard we will achieve our goals."

"I found it difficult to prioritise my ambitious growth plans, struggling to find time to plan for our next growth phase. Mike’s pragmatic, wise advice and his extensive knowledge has been invaluable and has helped me to scale my business. I can’t thank him enough."

"Mike was excellent at getting me to focus on what I needed to change straight away and what would be more long term changes to make. He really drilled down and got to the crux of the matter. He was very patient. I would definitely recommend using Mike"

"Mike has been invaluable in helping me find calm and clarity in the hustle and bustle of entrepreneurship. I highly recommend him for all things: Strategy, Business-mentorship and Business Development."

"Mike has become an integral part of our business management. He’s guided, supported, listened, and provided outstanding advice. We’re moving forward as a business in so many areas thanks to Mike's support.”

"Couldn’t recommend you enough Mike, you go above and beyond 👏 it’s been a complete game changer for me to chat things through and plan my business whilst we pivot and make some serious changes. Thanks again for all your hard work."

"Mike has been a fantastic mentor/coach. His past experience running businesses and franchises shines through in his teaching and has been invaluable to us. I can’t recommend him enough to anyone needing assistance taking their business forward."

"Mike has a wealth of experience and knowledge which shows in every meeting and phone call we have. He has helped me plan and map out the journey to the life I want and how my business will get me there. What’s more, he’s keeping me on track and accountable to achieving it. If you’re looking to take your business to the next level, speak to Mike!"

"I've had the pleasure of working with Mike for the past couple of years with my own business and I cannot recommend him enough. His calm manner to any situation or conundrum really helps me focus and stand back and assess the situation properly. His commercial knowledge and experience means he can approach a topic from many an angle to which I have been blinded and I find that invaluable. He is a great cheerleader, supporter and friend. I know he always has his clients' interests at heart and he regularly goes above and beyond the call of duty. The support has been immense and I always look forward to our sessions. "

"I engaged with Mike to enable him to 'kick my butt'. He’s supported me from when I first became an employer to where my business is now and how proud I am of my great team. He likes to play devil's advocate now and again and can always see a positive when some days I can't!"

"Mike has been a great support to me over the past 18 months. I have really valued his insights; suggestions; and tackling issues from another angle. He is generous with his time and will go out of his way to help a client’s business with his considerable network of trusted professionals.
Being a solo director, bouncing ideas off Mike has been invaluable and he has been a great source of encouragement, motivation and ideas.
Thanks for all your help to date!"
"I have known Mike for a few years, listened to his podcast, read his content, watched his videos. During the pandemic, I felt as some might say, lost in the woods. I initially engaged in Mike’s online business development program and resources. I like how Mike works, how he breaks things down. Through my sessions with Mike, my thoughts have become clearer again. Gone back to basics to build confidence in myself and my team. Ensure we consider things from all angles. Think about the team, our customers, and our overall alignment.  It is so easy to get lost in the day, the week, the month, or even the year. (Friends quote) but Mike has been there for me over the last 17 months and continues to be someone I trust, respect, and work with month to month. Keeping me accountable and focused. Thanks for keeping me on track Mike and for the support and awareness you have for my business and team. My choices are improving again, I feel much happier and my motivation and energy are back."

"I started 1-2-1 mentorship sessions with Mike earlier this year. His practical and pragmatic nuggets of wisdom in all aspects of business make him stand out from the crowd. Mike is super-fast in responding to all queries, and the regular reviews keep one accountable. Highly recommended."

"As a business owner, it's easy to procrastinate. Enter Mike... I’m getting results and achieving more than expected. Mike’s a good listener, a great sounding board and a meticulous action note taker! I would highly recommend any business owner booking some time with Mike."

"Mike combines a calm focus with incredible enthusiasm. He challenges my motives for doing something and more importantly for NOT doing something and then works with me to find the best solution.
Mike has helped me to articulate my personal brand and given me the confidence to develop this.”

"I was at a crossroads. Since that time Mike has been my rock; a voice of reason, listening, challenging, and ensuring I consider as much as possible in my decision making and keeping me focused. I’m now taking my business where I want it to go, not just getting by working in it."

"Mike’s ability to actively promote others, and provide a seasoned approach to business and the development of those businesses is second to none"

"We met with Mike Foster yesterday, and as always, it was an incredibly insightful experience. His depth of knowledge continues to be a game changer for us. Mike has played a crucial role in our growth and development, and his advice is always incredibly valuable! He brings a wealth of knowledge to the table and has been instrumental in helping us fine-tuning our services."

"
"For over a year now, Mike has been guiding and mentoring us here at Ginger Digital, consistently delivering immense value. We've known Mike for some time, and we selected him because of his genuine commitment to supporting and assisting his clients. Mike helps us in both longer term forward business planning and also focusing on the 30-day High Performing Activities necessary for our business's growth.
His extensive business experience often leads to insights that bring clarity to a topic or offer a fresh perspective. He serves as a truly valuable sounding board
Neil and I highly recommend working with Mike and we know he will continue to help our business grow."

"Mike has helped me consider my marketing and how the business is presented. The sessions with Mike have brought clarity; consolidated my thoughts and clearly defined what needs to be done. Overall, this has helped me make huge stride in my business."

"I attended one of Mike’s excellent workshops, and then a follow up 1-2-1 session, which was incredible. Like many business owners, I hate being dictated to but equally often need advice from experience. For me Mike is a highly experienced and successful entrepreneur acting almost as a business partner."

"I would highly recommend working with Mike, especially if you need focus, accountability, direction and simplification, but have an enormous to-do list and are not sure where to start. Mike will help you achieve what you want, whilst making you feel like you did it all. Thanks Mike!"

"Mike is different to the other coaches that I have worked with. He will ask me questions, but also challenges me on some of my responses. He has a much more commercial outlook than other coaches and is someone I trust as another pair of eyes. A perfect sounding board for me. Certainly recommended."

"Mike is an excellent business coach and mentor. He actively listens, asks thoughtful questions, and gives practical advice when needed based on his vast experience running other businesses. Mike has been incredibly helpful in my journey, and his support has been invaluable."

"I’ve ran my business for many years now and throughout that time I’ve had a number of advisors. Mike is one of the rare few I genuinely respect. Full of knowledge, experience and level-headed wisdom. Has a knack for putting forward ideas I hadn’t ever considered and coming at things from a different angle. A genuinely good guy who goes out of his way to help, always happy to give his time and an absolute pleasure to work with."

plus what two of them said to camera…….

and as also trusted by

Content from the Entrepreneurs Mentor

The support I can offer

I’m transparent about what I offer, the value to you and your investment.

I share a number of free resources to help you know how I think, how I work and the experience I’m likely to share with you. Why not take a listen, read or watch and I’m confident you will know you are in the right place to develop your business.

You can choose from 1-2-1 mentoring, with no minimum term, to any of my free resources or anything in between.

1-2-1 Mentoring

£495 per month
No minimum term 

Let’s work together on a personalised plan to develop your business. 

GROUP COACHING

 

If you prefer developing your business in a peer group environment, then my group offering may be best for you.

online BUSINESS programme

12 modules taking you through those critical considerations at Start Up or as an early stage business.

systems coach

As a systems expert I will help you create the systemised processes in your business and give you that business which can operate without you.

The marketing & sales system

….the Proven Step by Step Framework To Get & Keep More Customers

FREE RESOURCES

A collection of thoughts you can read, watch or listen to, that I am confident will help you to develop your business.

“His extensive business experience often leads to insights that bring clarity to a topic or offer a fresh perspective”

 


What’s stopping you from having the business you want & deserve?

Perhaps you don’t have a clear plan or way to move your business forward. You’re stuck and are unsure what to do next.

Maybe you need more customers or your current marketing campaigns are not delivering the results you hoped for.

Like others, you feel like you have no time to implement the strategies and techniques you know will move your business forward.

It could be that you feel like you don’t have the skills to improve the business or accelerate the growth of your business.

We know that business owners feel lonely, so you don’t have any one to turn to in your business or you feel that your family and friends don’t really understand.

Are you not generating enough revenue? but you’re paying others and the result – you’re not living the life you had planned when you set out in business.

Possibly, your staff don’t perform as you want them to, or you want to start employing staff.

If any of these resonate, rest assured you are not alone. I’ve seen these factors many times.

Is it time for change?

As I have for many other business owners, let me guide you to having the business you deserve and I guarantee you will see results within 3 months of working together, as we build a road map to maximise your investment with the return you desire.

Any change takes work, but I won’t be giving you more work to do, but easier ways to see the results you desire.

As your Mentor, I will fuel your thoughts with those valuable coaching questions but also share my experience, proven case studies, knowledge and innovative strategies.

The BIG question: Are you ready to improve your business and have the return on investment you’ve always deserved?

No contracted minimum term. I even guarantee that I’ll refund session one if you didn’t feel it was of value 

Perhaps these scenarios resonate with you?

  • You have a difficult business challenge to tackle or decision to make and would like to sanity check your thoughts but running the business is a lonely place 
  • You have a great service offering what people want and buy, but your leads are low and you’ve found it difficult to get your message heard by the right people, whilst it’s harder winning more customers.
  • You’re working far too many hours because everyone keeps adding to your ‘To Do’ list and you already have too many plates spinning
  • You’re frustrated as no one in your team seems to be able to do what you do, with the same thought and approach
  • You are finding it a constant effort to attract and retain the talent you need in your business
  • Your business is ok but the numbers don’t seem to add up to give you the return on investment for your hard work, but you can’t put your finger on the reason. You would like to better understand your numbers, your success drivers, your profitability and impact on cashflow.
  • You feel stuck as you’ve reached that point where the business is too big to pull back, or downsize, but your not big enough to scale at pace due to the time, people, and cash available. 
  • You have consistent revenues and loyal customers but your teams efficiency and productivity could be better 
  • You are experiencing the impact and influence of technology and software but are not an early adopter and fear being left behind
  • You don’t want to work forever but you haven’t started thinking about your exit plan and it’s now feeling timely to at least consider the options
  • Despite the passion you have for your business, there are frustrations and undoubtedly challenges. You feel a weight on your shoulders or pressure on your chest as something is ‘top of mind’ and is annoying you, frustrating you, causing you pain or sleepless nights or making your procrastinate

 

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and stressed with your business?

Look no further! I’m here to guide you on your journey towards greater success and a happier life. Say goodbye to sleepless nights and hello to a greater peace of mind. With my proven strategies, experience and expert advice, you can finally achieve the growth, success and status you deserve.

Do you struggle with managing your time and being able to focus on growing your business?

You’ll receive the support and tools you need to boost your cash flow, improve your business processes, and gain more control over your business. You can achieve the work-life balance you crave.

Would you like some help to unlock your full potential and take your business to the next level?

My customised coaching sessions and personalised approach will help you unlock your full potential – it’ll be a real hands-on, proactive approach to get you some quick wins, medium term priorities and a robust long-term plan. 

If any of these resonate, I’m here for a no-obligation chat. My clients have seen remarkable transformations, and I’m confident I can guide you too. Let’s Talk – No Strings Attached 

 

Where’s Your Business Heading? Imagine having a clear, structured plan, with the right tools, support, and motivation to propel your business forward. That’s what I offer.

More Than Just Day-to-Day Operations You’ve brought your business this far; let’s take it to the next level. With my guidance, you’ll focus on high-impact activities, develop your business, enhance revenue and profitability, and enjoy the rewards of your hard work.

You Deserve More Than Just a Job You started your business for more than just creating a job for yourself. Let me help you build it with minimal risk and maximum reward. As your business mentor, I’ll identify your strengths and weaknesses, develop a plan and equip you with the tools and guidance to thrive.

Ready to Transform Your Business?

I’d love to help you have the business your hard work deserves

  

Why I’m confident that I’ll ADD value as an ‘investment’ and NOT be a ‘cost’ to you

I’ve been there! I’ve owned, grown, franchised and sold various businesses, so I understand that you want to give your customers the best experience whilst increasing your revenue, but you don’t have time for all the other things you “need” to do.

A ‘step change’ is needed. Defined as an action that creates new habits, to implement change and delivers significant results.

Built from 30+ years of supporting business owners like you my brand of business mentoring, combined with coaching, helps you define a plan of action to invest in the future of your business.

As well as running my own businesses and working in senior roles, I have supported hundreds of other business owners. I know what works, I know why many don’t make it happen, I know what is needed and I’d love to share that with you as your mentor.

Many business owners have already experienced my value, see my testimonials by clicking here

 

Why do I position myself as a Mentor rather than a coach?

I’ve had coaches but was often frustrated when asked the coaching questions “how would you do that?” or “what do you think”. It was frustrating as I had engaged their support as I did not know the answers! I asked other business owners and their experience was the same.

As a mentor, Yes I primarily coach my clients but if they need something to spark or fuel their thoughts or ideas then I have a number of case studies, examples, tools or models to share from over 30+ years experience of supporting business owners.

Plus I’ve actually ran my own businesses, so I can empathise with the journey my clients are experiencing.

My support has a proven structure to help you consider where you are now, where you desire to be and how to create a plan of achievable actions to achieve this and have the business your hard work deserves.

It’s tough out there right now, so if you’re a business owner that is looking for an experienced sounding board, someone to help you move forward then let’s talk.

Click here to learn more about me and my own business experience

  

Back to you…

You CAN run a business without having to wear so many hats. You CAN develop your business to work for you. You CAN plan for growth without putting in even more hours.

Are you ready?

Running a business is not without risk, but you know that already! The most successful entrepreneurs in the world take calculated risks and do what is needed to make change happen. And today, they feel completely fulfilled financially, mentally, emotionally, and physically – because they accept a level of risk, execute a plan of activities and learn from their outcomes.

I’m here to steer you through those risks, to help your avoid the mistakes made by others and identify potential barriers before they occur. I want to make sure your hard work pays off.30

Mentor: Ask your self these questions around accountability
Mentor: Ask your self these questions around support
Mentor: Ask your self these questions around your future
Mentor: Ask your self these questions around your work and desires

What do you want for your business?

  • Are you getting the results your hard work deserves?
  • Are you maximising your opportunities to improve your revenue?
  • Are you in control and using your valuable time in the best possible way?
  • Do you know what’s holding you back?
  • Do you have a handle on your ‘success drivers’?
  • Do you have someone you bounce an idea off or provide another pair of eyes?
  • Are you clear where you want to be in a years’ time and how to get there?
  • Do you plan and execute what you really need to do, without distraction?

If you answered NO to any of these questions, OR if you are just ready to take your business to the next level, then let’s talk about how I can support you make the change often needed.

Let’s get started on YOUR step change today

If you’re serious about developing your business and turning all your hard work so far into even better results, then I’m ready to take your call. You can book a mentoring session with me right now.

I’ll share some immediate thoughts with you and recommend which of my mentoring packages is the best fit for where you are now, where you want to be, and what it will take to get there.

More than ‘coaching’, my practical, innovative, and focused mentoring provides exactly what you need to build on what you already have and start maximising your valuable time.

You’re great at what you do, and as you’ll see from my testimonials, so am I and that makes a great combination. 


Ready to team up?

Give me a call today on 01235 614809 or why not book some time in my diary using the button below. 

Still unsure?

Please take some time to read my blogs, listen to a podcast or watch some short YouTube videos.

BlogS

My blog is updated regularly with useful and interesting content for entrepreneurs like you.

Podcast

Listen in to my thoughts, experience and expertise to help you grow and develop your business.

YOUTUBE Channel

My thought provoking videos, handy hints & tips, interviews and more – please visit my Youtube channel.

LISTEN OR WATCH