B.D. Was the First Coach That Made Sense to me!
What’s the Story?
Tony Di Ponio, Director of Speed One Sports Ltd, leads a thriving business with a turnover exceeding £1 million, supported by a strong client base and dedicated team. Despite his success, Tony is focused on long-term objectives and sought guidance to align his business with personal goals. Recognizing the need for strategic change, Tony engaged a coach to facilitate these transformations.”
“B.D. spoke sense and he pulled me back and pushed me forwards where necessary. He gave me clarity, focus and direction. That’s when you know a coach is worth their salt – when they have the power to change your mindset.”
– Tony Di Ponio, Director of Speed One Sports
Here’s What Tony had to say
“As a business owner, I think we all face a similar problem: Being at the top is a hard and lonely position. Who do you turn to when you’re facing an issue, seeking advice or looking to make changes? You can’t turn to staff, competitors or friends as no one truly understands your obstacles and how to overcome them – this is why business coaches are so valuable.
My business, Speed One Sports, provides logo sports apparel for sport clubs, corporates, schools and more. We are a successful company, with £1 million+ turnover, staff and a good client base; despite this, I knew I was ready for change. I asked myself, ‘What do I want out of this business I’ve built?’ Not necessarily a change that would bring financial gains, but changes for me. It was important for me to get my time back to spend it with my family and do the things I really enjoy. Being a business owner wasn’t always my background. Prior to Speed One Sports, I was a badminton coach, so I knew exactly what to look for in my quest to find a mentor.
Countless coaches and companies had approached me in the past offering the same ‘one-size-fits-all’ sort of programs and services. I have attended previous courses that had been recommended but nothing resonated with me or my business. When you own your own business, it’s hard to put your trust in someone else outside of your circle. You build a wall and feel apprehensive to bare-all to someone you don’t know! This is one of the challenges I faced whilst looking for someone; I needed an individual I could connect with. It was at this point I was introduced to B.D. through a valued connection.”
“Why Did Tony Select B.D. as His Coach?”
“After speaking with B.D., we clicked straight away. He was the first person who made sense to me. His approach was refreshing as he didn’t talk like he was reading from a coaching and mentoring textbook. B.D. took the time to get to know me, my business and my specific needs.
One of the reasons I worked so well with B.D. on a 1-1 basis was because he was someone I could trust. He has a calming influence; he spoke sense and he pulled me back and pushed me forwards where necessary. I have been given clarity, focus and direction. That’s when you know a coach is worth their salt – when they have the power to change your mindset.
Already I’ve made the changes B.D. challenged me to put into practice. Little things like changing the emailing process, setting auto replies, changing voice mails, turning the phone off at set times and altering other systems and processes to ensure it’s not me dealing with everything. Roles are being handed over to other members of the team and I’m feeling the difference. I am confident I will see a return on my investment”
– Tony Di Ponio, Director of Speed One Sports
6 Months on…
Tony Di Ponio and the Speed One Sports team have successfully implemented new systems and processes, resulting in significant improvements. They have reclaimed valuable man-hours, cut overhead costs, replicated their top client’s success, and Tony has regained an additional 2 days each month to focus on his priorities.