"Getting the systems and the processes in place actually creates space for the creativity because there's certain things in business that just need to happen."
In this episode of Above the Business, Bradley Hamner is sharing a fan favorite episode with David Jenyns, author of "Systemology." This episode serves as a perfect introduction to systems thinking, as Bradley prepares listeners for an upcoming episode featuring David's new book "Systems Champion." Listen for an in-depth discussion about building business systems that create freedom rather than constraint.
David shares his entrepreneurial journey from running various businesses including a rock and roll clothing franchise, video production company, and digital agency, to his breakthrough moment that led him to systemize his way out of day-to-day operations. The conversation addresses the common entrepreneurial paradox: starting a business for freedom but ending up trapped by it.
Key Topics Discussed
Overcoming the Systems Mindset Barrier
- Why entrepreneurs often resist systemization despite wanting freedom.
- The counterintuitive truth that systems create space for creativity, not stifle it.
- How David's video production business breakthrough showed him that processes. handle routine tasks, freeing up mental space for high-value creative work.
What Business Systems Actually Look Like
- Moving beyond the overwhelming "McDonald's manual" perception of systems.
- Starting simple with screen recordings, checklists, and basic documentation.
- Systems as iterative, living documents that evolve over time.
- The importance of seeing actual system examples to understand what's possible.
The Master Skill for Business Owners
- Every business problem is fundamentally a systems problem.
- Lead generation issues = need better lead generation systems.
- Sales problems = need better sales systems.
- Cash flow issues = need better finance management systems.
- Staff problems = need better recruitment and onboarding systems.
Getting Started: From Blank Cursor to Documentation
- Practical first steps for solo entrepreneurs vs. teams with 5+ people.
- The power of Loom recordings stored in organized Google Drive folders.
- Capturing current processes before optimizing (not aspirational systems).
- Applying the 80/20 rule to focus on essential systems first.
The Systems Champion Role
- Why successful businesses identify a dedicated systems champion.
- The systems champion as the "department head" for processes.
- How this person celebrates wins, supports team members, and keeps systems front-and-center.
- The business owner's role in leading and supporting (not abdicating responsibility).
Building Business Assets vs. Trading Time for Dollars
- Understanding systems as business assets that generate value without owner presence.
- The transition from working in the business to working on the business.
- Why business owners must invest time and resources upfront to build systematic foundations.
Guest Information
David Jenyns is based in Melbourne, Australia, and is the author of "Systemology." He helps business owners systematize their operations to create freedom and scalability. David has experience across multiple industries and is currently working on his upcoming book "Systems Champion," which focuses on the person who actually implements and drives systematic business documentation.
Connect with the Show
Bradley Hamner hosts Above The Business, empowering business owners to rise above daily operations and embrace strategic ownership. The show
