Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Anna Stella. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Anna, thanks for joining us today. We love asking folks what they would do differently if they were starting today – how they would speed up the process, etc. We’d love to hear how you would set everything up if you were to start from step 1 today

There’s a trusted saying in business: plan for it to cost five times more and take five times longer, especially if you plan to go global. When creating your projections, it’s easy to be drawn to optimistic forecasts and impressive figures. But the reality is often far more challenging. To manage expectations, build your forecasts conservatively. A well-researched business plan is essential. The more preparation you put in, the better equipped you’ll be to navigate the uncertainties of starting a business.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a marketing expert, academic researcher, and the founder of BBSA, a global marketing outsourcing agency. I also serve as the president of the BASA Awards® and host the YouTube show The Best of Business Show. BBSA was established on 12/12/2012 in a small kitchen in London, and since then, it has grown into a multi-award-winning company with offices in four countries.

Our mission is to help businesses grow and expand by providing innovative marketing solutions that empower our clients to develop their activities in new and exciting ways. What sets us apart is our commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and our 24/7 business model.
I am particularly proud of our commitment to sustainability – BBSA is proudly Green certified by Green America. For me, it’s not just about helping businesses grow but doing so in a way that aligns with our values of responsibility and positive impact.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

Leaders certainly need vision, confidence, energy, authority, and strategic ability, but these traits alone won’t inspire employees to perform at their best or build their commitment to you as a leader. The traditional transactional relationship—money in exchange for labor—is no longer enough to keep team members motivated. Today, people want more than just a paycheck; they want opportunities for growth, a sense of contribution, and a belief in the larger mission of the company. It’s essential for leaders to connect their teams to this bigger picture and create a culture where employees feel genuinely valued and cared for.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Sun Tzu’s The Art of War is a must-read for executives. Although it was originally written as a military manual, its principles have been widely adapted beyond the battlefield, providing valuable wisdom for overcoming challenges and achieving success in all areas of life, particularly in business. What fascinates me about the book is its distinctive perspective, frequently interpreted by Western business professionals and academics, which makes it especially relevant for entrepreneurs and business leaders. The Art of War offers valuable strategies for excelling in a competitive business landscape, from gaining a strategic advantage to making well-informed decisions and outwitting competitors.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bbsa-marketing.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theannastella/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annastella/
• Twitter: https://x.com/AnnaSte11a
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Bobshow-TV