In less than 20 minutes a week, we'll introduce you to an expert or business owner with deep experience in what they do. Grow you, grow your team, grow a small business. Welcome to the "Grow a Small Business" podcast with your host, Rob Cameron. In this episode, Rob interviews Tom Lewin, the Founder of ESOP Pal, based in Sydney, Australia.  Tom shares valuable insights into the importance of leveraging data to understand customers, boost retention, and drive business growth. As a small business owner employing 5 to 30 people, you'll discover actionable takeaways to implement immediately. Some Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Ownership Mindset: Discover how employee share plans can transform employees into motivated partners who actively contribute to your business's success.   Retention Strategy: Employee share plans offer a powerful retention strategy, especially for key staff members. Even if they lack initial financial capacity, they can accumulate equity over time.   Transparency Matters: Being transparent with financial numbers fosters understanding among your employees, aligns them with your business goals, and encourages them to contribute their unique skills. Our hero’s write kick-ass reviews after listening to our special guests. Are you our hero?   Competitive Advantage: Employee ownership isn't just a feel-good concept; it's a tool to gain a competitive edge. It drives growth, profit, and employee retention while aligning your culture with your business objectives.   Explore the Possibilities: Small business owners should explore employee share plans with an open mind. These plans have a rich history of success and can provide a significant competitive advantage. Connect with experts like Tom Lewin to learn more. One Key Advice for Small Business Owners: One piece of advice for small business owners is to "Explore employee share plans with an open mind. Leave your perceptions at the door and consider how these plans can be a significant competitive advantage for your business." Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can tell you to like to maximise your time.   Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. ?   Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Empowering your team with ownership fosters a culture of loyalty and innovation. - Tom Lewin Being transparent with financial numbers is essential. - Tom Lewin Employee share planning is not just a perk, it's a strategic advantage for small businesses. - Tom Lewin