In this episode of Best in Class, I chat with Chris Johnson, co-founder of Arx Nova, a crisis and stabilisation consultancy that helps businesses navigate tough transitions — whether that’s rapid growth, stagnation, or genuine distress.

They unpack the real meaning of “crisis,” reframing it as any point where a business risks losing control — from runaway success to financial pressure. Chris explains why most businesses don’t fail because of one big mistake, but because their foundations weren’t built to support growth, and how Arx Nova’s “business trauma doctors” model helps leaders regain stability fast.

Martin and Chris also dig into the emotional side of leadership — denial, pride, fear of letting people down — and why sometimes the hardest decisions (like restructuring) are the ones that save a company.

This is a frank, relatable chat about what happens behind the scenes when businesses hit a wall, how to spot the warning signs early, and why asking for help sooner is always the smarter move.

💡 Key Takeaways

• Crisis doesn’t always mean failure — it can mean rapid growth, stagnation, or loss of control.
• Speed matters. Arx Nova works like “business paramedics,” stabilising companies before deeper damage sets in.
• Foundations are everything. Growth without structure or systems inevitably leads to crisis.
• Denial is dangerous. Many leaders see warning signs but delay action due to pride or emotional ties.
• Outside perspective saves time and money. External experts cut through internal politics and help leaders make clearer decisions.
• The human element matters. Founders often carry the emotional weight of their team’s livelihoods, which clouds judgment.
• Every decision should link back to your true business goal — not just survival or keeping everyone employed.
• Admitting you need help isn’t weakness — it’s the start of getting unstuck.

⏱️ Chapters

00:00 – Introduction and why “crisis” deserves a rethink

01:00 – How Arx Nova was born from crisis and what it really does

04:10 – Why “crisis” isn’t always bad — sometimes it’s success gone too fast

07:50 – The “business trauma doctor” approach and acting fast

10:20 – Martin’s journey from recruiter to business leader and lessons learned

13:00 – Experience vs. exposure: how real-world lessons shape better decisions

16:40 – The denial trap: why leaders ignore red flags

18:00 – The emotional weight of leadership and tough calls

20:00 – Operational wastage and learning from mistakes

22:30 – Why people problems are often at the root of crises

23:30 – How Arx Nova partners with others (like Higher) to support recovery

24:00 – How to reach Arx Nova and final thoughts