What does it look like to build a consulting business that’s both globally in-demand and personally fulfilling?
In this episode, Melisa sits down with Rachel Hughes of Surbon Consulting, a seasoned independent consultant with over 12 years of experience working across London, Dubai, and mainland Europe.
Rachel has built a remarkable business in the public transportation and sustainability sectors, one that consistently generates inbound interest, repeat engagements, and recognition in high-stakes projects, such as London’s Elizabeth Line.
But her story isn’t just about external success. It’s also about the evolution of her mindset, from undervaluing the role of mental frameworks in business to fully embracing mindset as a growth accelerator.
Tune in to hear Rachel’s honest take on:
- How she carved out and committed to a highly specific niche and why she never looked back
- The simple CRM system she uses to build and nurture a powerful pipeline consistently (click here for the Consultant’s CRM Quick Start Guide)
- What it’s like to turn down work and raise pricing in a niche market
- How mindset shifts around identity, visibility, and imposter syndrome have elevated her strategy
- Why she’s training to swim the English Channel and what it’s teaching her about leadership and resilience
Rachel’s story is a refreshing reminder that clarity, consistency, and courage are the fundamental drivers of long-term consulting success.
Tune into Episode 226 for an inspiring conversation that blends strategy, mindset, and real-world consulting insight from one of the best in the business.
FOR MORE RESOURCES SPECIFIC TO THE INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT —
- OnePageCRM: Quick Start Guide
- Coaching for Consultants: Click here to schedule your Coaching Exploratory Call.
- Book: Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality
- YouTube Podcast Channel
- Website
- Related Podcast Episode: Episode 224 – The 6-Figure Pipeline Playbook with Ellie Holbert
- Meet Rachel: Rachel Hughes | LinkedIn
