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Mitch's Business Journey: From Skateboard Decks to 400+ Staff (And Everything In Between) -

Mitch's Business Journey: From Skateboard Decks to 400+ Staff (And Everything In Between) -

Published 3 months ago
Description

In this episode of the Upscale Business Coaching Podcast, Mitch sits down to reflect on his business journey as Upscale celebrates its 4th birthday and kicks off a new financial year.


Need help growing your business? 


Mitch shares how he learned sales and margins as a teenager making skateboard decks, why he turned down a $300,000 law scholarship to support his family, and the lessons he picked up running a fruit and veg store before scaling a Jim's Franchise business to over 400 staff.

The conversation covers what separates business owners who dread the grind from those who genuinely love it, why sales is a skill that shows up in every part of life (not just business), the difference between wholesaling and selling at full margin, and why building a compelling offer matters more than competing on price.

Mitch also opens up about why the trade and construction industry carries more risk than almost any other in Australia and New Zealand, and why building a supportive community, rather than a brutal, tall poppy one, is one of the most underrated things a tradie can do for their business.

Whether you're a tradie thinking about stepping off the tools or a business owner wanting to enjoy the day to day again, this episode is full of real talk, hard won lessons, and a genuine love for the game.

In this episode:

  • Mitch's first business at 19 and what it taught him about partnerships
  • The difference between mass ticket sales and building a compelling offer
  • Why Australia's trade industry is one of the riskiest for business owners
  • How Upscale's mentor coach program is helping members give back
  • Why a supportive community changes the game for tradies growing a business


Follow Mitch: @mitchvan_

Need help growing your trade business?
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Find out where your business stands: Tradie Quiz
Hear real success stories: upscalecoaching.com.au/success-stories
Live Coaching Events 2026: upscale-coaching.com/upscale-live-events

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