Entrepreneur MBA

In the competitive world of business, finding your unique market position is not just an advantage—it's a necessity. Most business owners intuitively understand this, but when you're in the thick of building your business, it's incredibly challenging to constantly try to find that unique niche.  After building seven different companies over 30 years in the $5 million to $25 million range, including two that made the Inc. 500 fastest-growing list, I've learned that the key to sustainable success lies in identifying and focusing on a specific small niche that others either haven't found, have over looked, or have a hard time competing in. Finding that profitable niche is one of the hardest things anyone can do, but it really is the key to your success.

Building the life of your dreams from ease involves a deliberate and mindful approach to personal and professional development. By combining clarity of vision, realistic goal-setting, mindful planning, efficient work habits, a positive mindset, self-care, and a supportive network, you can create a life that aligns with your deepest aspirations. Embrace the journey with ease, and watch as your dreams unfold in ways you never imagined possible. In this podcast, Donna Tashjian from Vibrant Living International and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss building the life of your dreams from ease.  

Living life on fire requires a dynamic and intentional pursuit of personal growth. To achieve this, it is important to embrace your passions, set clear goals, maintain a positive mindset, prioritize your well-being, build meaningful connections, embrace learning, live in the present moment, contribute to others, celebrate successes, and reflect on your journey. By doing so, you can create a fulfilling life that is not only successful but also filled with peace and joy. Remember, the flame within you has the power to illuminate not only your path but also the paths of those around you. In today's podcast, Lynita Mitchell-Blackwell from Leading Through Living Community LLC and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss how to live life on fire - a successful life full of peace, joy, and fulfillment.

Nowadays, digital marketing, social media, and other forms of advanced communication systems are prevailing in lead generation. However, when done strategically, B2B cold calling remains a powerful tool in building and growing your business. By understanding your audience, crafting compelling scripts, and continuously refining your approach, you can use the personal touch of cold calls to establish meaningful connections and drive business success. So, endeavor to leverage the power of B2B cold calling and watch your business succeed. In today's Podcast, Robert Poole from Total Business Results and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss building your business through B2B cold calls.

There's no doubt the COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the way businesses operate and has brought about a change in the role of leaders. It has shown the importance of being flexible, adaptable, and putting people first. As we move forward, we can learn from this challenging period and use those lessons to guide us in navigating the uncertainties of the future. To build resilient and successful organizations in the new normal, leaders must embrace change, prioritize employee well-being, and take advantage of digital advancements. In today's podcast, Rebecca Weaver from HRuprise and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss how post-COVID has changed us as business leaders.

Selling your business should not be left to chance or addressed only when you are ready to retire. It is a process that starts the day you launch your business. When you approach entrepreneurship with the possibility of a future sale in mind, you create a more valuable and attractive asset for potential buyers. Whether you ultimately decide to sell or not, the steps you take to prepare for a sale will also make your business stronger, more resilient, and better positioned for long-term success. So, embrace the idea that selling your business starts the day you launch, and you'll be on the path to building a more valuable and sustainable enterprise. In today's podcast, Lorraine Ball from “More than a Few Words” and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss “Selling your business: Why this starts the day you launch.”  

While the "click here, buy now" approach may work effectively for certain products and services, it's important to acknowledge that not all offerings are suited for this type of sales strategy. For customized, creative, or complex products, a more personalized and consultative approach can lead to better outcomes. Such strategies create deeper connections, foster trust, and often justify higher price points. In a world where customers value uniqueness and meaningful experiences, adapting your sales approach to cater to these needs can be a game-changer for your business. Whether you're selling handcrafted goods, personalized services, or intricate solutions, the future of selling is increasingly about engaging and serving customers in a way that makes them feel seen and heard. In today's podcast, Merit Kahn from SELLect Sales Development and Steven Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss "Sell Custom, Creative or Complex vs. "click here, buy now”."

Becoming a listening leader and fostering a culture of trust and empowerment involves active listening skills, empathetic communication, and deliberate actions demonstrating your commitment to your team's well-being and growth. By consistently practicing these principles, you can create an organizational culture where trust and empowerment flourish, ultimately leading to improved morale, creativity, and performance. In today's podcast, Kyle Gillette from Blue Shirt Coaching and Steven Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss “The Listening Leader: How to Build a Culture of Trust and Empowerment.”

Knowing your "why" is a transformative force in both life and business. It provides clarity, motivation, authenticity, and long-term fulfillment. It is the driving factor behind personal success and the key to building a thriving, purpose-driven business. So, take the time to reflect on your "why" and let it guide you towards a more meaningful and fulfilling life and business journey. Remember, success is not just about what you achieve; it's about why you do it. In today's podcast, Sonya Shelton from Executive Leadership Consulting and Steven Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss "the importance of knowing your why in life and your business."  

In an era of constant cyber threats, organizations can no longer view cybersecurity solely as a cost center. Businesses can turn it into a profit center by adopting a proactive approach and leveraging cybersecurity as a strategic asset. Whether through customer trust, offering cybersecurity services, monetizing threat intelligence, engaging in cybersecurity insurance, capitalizing on compliance efforts, protecting intellectual property, or providing education and training, the opportunities to generate revenue from cybersecurity initiatives are abundant. Embracing these strategies enhances the bottom line and strengthens an organization's overall resilience in the face of evolving cyber threats. Today, cybersecurity is not just a cost to bear but a valuable asset to cultivate for long-term profitability and success. In today's podcast, Chris Moschovitis from Technology Management Group and Steven Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss Turning cybersecurity from a cost to a profit center.  

In the world of small business, effective communication is not just a tool but a strategic imperative. It is the bridge that connects your brand to your audience, helping you build awareness, trust, and loyalty. A well-executed brand strategy, driven by thoughtful and consistent communication, can give small businesses the competitive advantage they need to succeed in today's challenging marketplace. Therefore, investing time and resources in developing a communication strategy that aligns with your brand goals and resonates with your target audience is essential. By doing so, you can position your small business for long-term growth and success. In today's podcast, Ashley Sang from Ashlee Sang Consulting LLC and Steven Halasnik from Financial Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss “Why Communication Is So Important in Small Business Brand Strategy.”

Relying solely on your active income is no longer prudent or sustainable in today's business terrain. The significance of proactively building passive income streams cannot be overstated. Passive income offers financial security and the flexibility and freedom to savor life on your own terms. And it provides peace of mind, diversification, and a reliable income source during retirement. Whether you're just embarking on your entrepreneurial journey or have been a seasoned business owner for decades, it's never too early or too late to begin constructing a portfolio of passive income streams. Therefore, make it a top priority and unlock the financial freedom and lasting prosperity that every business owner rightfully deserves. Your financial future depends on it. In today's podcast, Chris Miles from Money Ripples and Steven Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss “why every business needs passive income.”

A strong company culture remains a constant pillar of success in a world where business strategies and technologies rapidly evolve. It influences not only employee satisfaction and performance but also a company's reputation and long-term viability. A positive company culture does not happen by chance; it requires intentional efforts, dedication, and ongoing commitment from leaders and employees alike. Therefore, businesses can build a culture that propels them toward growth, innovation, and prosperity by fostering an environment that prioritizes values, communication, development, and inclusivity. In today's podcast, Orrin Klopper from Netsurit and Steven Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss "why and how a company culture is so important".

QuickBooks undoubtedly remains one of the leading accounting software options on the market. Its user-friendly interface, comprehensive feature set, and adaptability make it a strong contender for businesses aiming to streamline their financial operations. Remember, the "right" solution ultimately depends on how well it aligns with your business requirements. In this article, Brad White from VARC Solutions and Steven Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss “Is QuickBooks the Right Solution for Your Business?”

Scaling a 7-figure business is an exciting journey filled with growth opportunities and potential. However, it also presents unique challenges that demand careful planning, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. By addressing operational efficiency, talent acquisition, financial management, market competition, marketing and sales strategies, customer experience, and leadership, entrepreneurs can navigate the path to sustainable growth and success. Moreover, the challenges are part of the process, and with the right strategies, you can turn them into valuable learning experiences that propel your business forward. In today's podcast, Brett Gilliland from Elite Entrepreneurs, LLC, and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss the business scaling challenges of 7 figure businesses.

Optimizing processes and leveraging technology go hand in hand in today's business landscape. By understanding existing workflows, setting clear objectives, involving your team, adopting user-friendly technology, embracing automation, and using data-driven insights, you can transform your operations and achieve remarkable efficiency and productivity gains. Remember, the journey toward process optimization is continuous, and fostering a culture of innovation will be the driving force behind sustained success. Embrace technology as an enabler and a partner in your quest for excellence, and you will undoubtedly reap the rewards of a streamlined and thriving organization. In today's podcast, Marquis Murray and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions(https://financingsolutionsnow.com) discuss How to Optimize Your Processes and Get the Most Out of Technology. 

Leadership in business is not just about complex strategies and theories; it's about applying common sense in a way that empowers individuals, strengthens the team, and drives the business toward long-term success while maintaining a harmonious work environment. With these key principles in mind, business owners can embark on a transformative journey, elevating their leadership to new heights and achieving remarkable results. In today's podcast,  Doug Thorpe from  HeadwayExec. and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss Business Owner Leadership Powered by Common Sense: Key Principles for Effective Leadership in Business.

Building a business that supports your lifestyle and dreams is an extraordinary accomplishment that every business owner desires. However, even successful entrepreneurs may encounter boredom or a lack of excitement along the way. By reflecting on your journey, setting new goals, delegating responsibilities, embracing continuous learning, innovating, seeking challenges outside of business, mentoring, networking, and practicing self-care, you can effectively manage boredom and reignite your passion for your business. Remember, embracing change and seeking new experiences can lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful entrepreneurial journey, even after achieving remarkable success.

Enhancing the market value of your business for a potential future sale requires strategic planning and execution. To achieve this, you should leverage your competitive advantage, maintain accurate financial records, develop a strong management team, diversify and strength customer base and seek professional guidance.  In today's podcast,  Ryan Urban from Alpha Management Inc. and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss Making your business more  valuable to sell in the future.   

Courageous leadership is essential in steering your business toward success in volatile times. Business leaders who are unshakable, resolved and resilient, confident, and more are better equipped to navigate uncertainty and inspire their teams to overcome challenges. In today's podcast, Tim Lupinacci from Baker Donelson and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss courageous leadership in volatile times: key leadership traits to drive.    

Building a billion-dollar business requires strategic planning to chart a clear path, differentiation to stand out in the market, hiring passionate employees, creating a unique customer experience, and embracing uniqueness to disrupt and become a leader in your niche. In today's podcast, Roy Osing from Roy Osing Company and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss the topic: from startup to a billion dollars in sales: my audacious and unheard ways.     

Small companies can effectively harness the power of PR by developing a comprehensive PR strategy, building relationships with media professionals, crafting compelling stories, utilizing press release distribution platforms, engaging in content marketing, and monitoring media coverage. Consistency, persistence, and authenticity are vital to achieving PR success. In today's podcast,  Brandi Sims from Brandinc PR and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss leveraging PR for small business results- tools and tactics.  

Small business branding fosters loyalty, differentiates your business from competitors, and attracts new customers. When well executed, it can contribute to the rapid growth of your company, ensuring long-term success and sustainability. In today's podcast, Amanda Guerassio from Studio Guerassio and Stephen Halasnik discuss small business branding-finding clarity, being strategic, and crafting identity. 

Scaling a business is an ambitious but rewarding journey. However, some factors can impede your scaling efforts and business growth. It's paramount that you find out the constraining variable early and confront them head-on before taking the plunge to position your company for future growth and success. In today's podcast, Reza Farahani from WFHomie and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss what happens when you see your company cannot scale.     

The Daily RAP is a structured framework that helps business owners streamline their workflow and maximize productivity. CEOs that plan their day with Review and Action Plan maintain focus, prioritize tasks effectively, and proactively attend to essential issues, ultimately driving their businesses' success. In today's podcast, Amber Garza from Productivity Specialist and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss 'how CEOs plan their day with the Daily RAP (Review &Action Plan).    

Social media advertising provides numerous benefits to small businesses, including precise targeting, cost-effectiveness, real-time performance tracking, and engaging with audiences through likes, comments, and shares. It has become critical to marketing campaigns, helping business owners increase brand awareness, drive website traffic, generate leads, and boost sales. In today's podcast, Eroslav Georgiev & Rohaan Khan from Orange Trail and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss how to scale Facebook Ads, Google, TikTok, Twitter,  Snapchat, and more.     

Being an effective problem-solver, decision-maker, and driver of innovation is essential for small business owners who desire to thrive in today's dynamic and competitive business landscape. As a business owner, you can fine-tune your problem-solving, decision-making, and innovative breakthrough by cultivating a growth mindset, analyzing problems from multiple perspectives, utilizing data and technology, encouraging collaboration and diversity, investing in continuous learning, and more. In today's podcast, Christie Turley from Christie Turley Company and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss how business owners can be better at problem-solving, decision-making, and innovative breakthrough. 

Understanding the DNA of money is a transformative journey that can shape our businesses and lives. By cultivating a positive money mindset, implementing sound financial practices, and embracing the power of money to make a positive impact, we can build a solid foundation for financial prosperity. Remember, money is not an end but a means to create the life we desire and make a difference in the world. In today's podcast, Daniels Mangena from DreamWithDan and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss the DNA of money in your business and life.     

Creating a great brand takes time and effort, but it's worth it. A strong brand can help you stand out in a crowded market and build customer trust. By defining your brand, developing a consistent visual identity, being authentic, creating a brand voice, being consistent, investing in design, and staying true to your brand, you can create a brand that truly represents who you are and what you stand for. In today's podcast, Johanna White from Design By Jo and Stephen Halasnik from Finance Solutions discuss brand like the best - how to look as good as you are.    

Building a profitable company in good and bad times requires a combination of factors, including strategic planning, financial management, employee engagement, and customer satisfaction. To succeed, a company must have a clear vision and mission, a solid understanding of its target market, and a flexible business model that can adapt to changing market conditions. In today's podcast, Lance Cayko from F9 Productions Inc. and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss the keys to building a profitable company in good and bad times.       

When transitioning from hourly to project-based pricing as a consultant, it's essential to consider the terms and conditions of the contract carefully. This includes defining the scope of work, deliverables, timeline, payment structure, and any provisions for changes or termination of the agreement. Establishing clear communication and expectations with the client is crucial to ensure a successful project outcome and avoid any potential disputes or misunderstandings. In today's podcast, Mandy Pearce from Funding For Good, Inc. and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss contract considerations for consultants and from hourly to project-based pricing.

Franchising offers entrepreneurs a proven business model, established brand, training and support, economies of scale, proven marketing strategies, faster expansion opportunities, reduced risk of failure, access to a network, brand recognition, and more. These factors make franchising an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking for a higher chance of success, support, and scalability in their business ventures. In today's podcast, Jon Ostenson from FranBridge Consulting and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss why franchising is so popular with entrepreneurs.  

To revolutionize how we reward good talent, we must focus on providing employees with meaningful work, autonomy, and recognition. We also need to create a culture of transparency and accountability, where employees feel like they are part of a team and their contributions are valued. In todays' podcast, David Valentine from Avadel Agency and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss how to revolutionize the way we reward good talent.  

The success of every business of all sizes hinges solely on its level of customer acquisition and retention. Successful companies have mastered the secret to attracting and retaining their customers. Attracting the right-fit clients and boosting your revenue requires defining your ideal client, crafting a compelling message, choosing the proper marketing channels, creating valuable content, building relationships, and more. In today's podcast, Patty Block from The Block Group and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss the secret to attracting right-fit clients and boosting revenue.  

Sales strategies are critical for the success of small businesses as they enable them to effectively reach and persuade potential customers to buy their products or services. By developing a clear sales strategy, small businesses can identify their target audience, tailor their messaging, and prioritize their sales efforts. Effective sales strategies also help small businesses to differentiate themselves from competitors and build customer loyalty. In today's podcast, Lynn Whitbeck from Petite2Queen and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss sales strategies to get more clients and boost profits. 

Social media has become a veritable tool for small business owners to reach their target audiences. It can also be valuable for acquiring customers, as businesses can target specific audiences based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. Social media analytics can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of social media campaigns, allowing businesses to refine their strategies and target their audience efficiently. In today's podcast, Hemant Varshney from DigiCom and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss real-life experiences of acquiring customers through social media.    

Self-affirmations are well known to be a powerful tool that can help business owners and their teams improve their performance, productivity, and overall well-being. However, Noah St. John has coined the phrase Afformations. Afformations are positive and empowering questions you ask yourself to change your beliefs and focus on what is right about you instead of wrong. Positive Afformations help business owners and their teams operate at their peak performances, allowing them to reach their goals quickly. In today's podcast, Noah St. John from SuccessClinic.com and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions, a leading provider of unsecured small business loans, discuss how self Afformations can help business owners and their teams.

Running a business when the owner dies can be challenging and stressful for those left behind. The sudden absence of the owner can create uncertainty and confusion, and it is crucial to have a plan in place to ensure the company's continuity. Adequate planning, prudent financial management, hiring the right team, branding, and marketing strategies are vital for running a business when the owner dies. In today's podcast, Mike Kaeding Norhart and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss running a business when the owner dies.

As a small business owner, taking control of your relationship with the IRS is essential to avoid potential issues and maintain a healthy financial status. And you can achieve this by keeping accurate records, filing and paying taxes on time, understanding tax laws and regulations, seeking professional help when needed, and addressing any issues promptly. In today's podcast,  Joe Mastriano from Joe Mastriano, P.C.and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss taking control of your relationship with the IRS.    

For entrepreneurs, speed is of the essence whether you're reading a financial report, software manual, business magazine, legal document, and more. Hence, you must enhance your speed reading skills to get through tons of important information that comes your way now and then quickly, even as you juggle other responsibilities in your life and business. In today's podcast, Abby Marks Beale from Rev It Up Reading and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss speed reading skills for busy entrepreneurs.  

Digital and offline marketing are essential for businesses of all sizes to connect with their target customers and stand out in a crowded market. While both approaches have unique benefits and drawbacks, they can also be used together to create a more powerful and effective marketing campaign. However, to be successful in both marketing efforts, you must first and foremost identify what makes you unique from your competitors and leverage it to position your business before your target customers.  

In today's highly competitive small business world, making your company stand out from the pack has become more important than ever if you want to reach your business goals. However, to differentiate your company from other businesses operating in your niche, you must go the extra mile to provide superior value to your customers. In today's podcast, Rick Elmore from SimplyNoted.com and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss how to make a business stand out.

Building your business to reach the 10 million dollar benchmark can be very tricky, especially when you don't have the needed experience. To succeed in your business, you should be aware of the landmines that could trip you up and avoid making critical mistakes that might make your company fail. In today's podcast, Chris Joyce from Gusher and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss the landmines once you pass the business startup.

Forming a thriving partnership can be challenging when one is running a business with a spouse or life partner. There are many ups and downs in both a business and a romantic relationship. And if you're unable to manage them effectively, it might affect your company and marriage. In today's podcast, Elma & Dov Levy from The Eldov Group LLC and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss ‘building and growing a successful business with your partner”.

Irrespective of the size of your company, marketing and promotion are ultimately important in driving its growth. However, not every marketing effort will affect your small business's bottom line. Therefore,  to have a successful marketing campaign, you must factor in measurable marketing by following the SMART methodology. In today's podcast, Howard Wolpoff from Profit Master Business Solutions and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss ‘measurable marketing: the key to business growth.' 

Publishing a book in your industry is a great way of building credibility and expanding your business reach. Although there might not be money in the book sales, however, the true value of the book is that it will position you as an authority in your business niche, leading to increased sales of services or products. As a small business marketing technique, writing a book that's relevant to your niche will go a long way in spurring your small business's growth. In today's podcast, Vince Warnock from Chasing the Insights and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss opening doors and profit for your business by being an author.  

The advent of digital technology has intensified competition in the business world today. And as a small business owner that wants to stand out from the crowd, you must go the extra mile to project your business to the public domain and gain the trust of your customers. However, to do this successfully, you should invest in creating a strong and trusting brand. When you develop the right brand for your small business, you can influence how people perceive your company. In today's podcast, Scott Baradell from Idea Grove and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss 'the value of small businesses building a trusting'.

Pivoting is a key strategy in business, but unfortunately, many small business owners tend to wait too long to implement it. Pivoting your business allows you to explore new markets, products, or services that will enable you to expand your revenue or to even help your business survive. In today's podcast, Dennis Kelly from Postalytics and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss how and when to pivot a business for optimal performance.

Today's business world is incredibly competitive, and small business owners who desire to grow and sustainably remain competitive must invest time and resources in their marketing efforts to reach the $ 5 million revenue benchmark. Effective small business marketing demands that you put in place systems, processes, and procedures to achieve your marketing goals. In today's podcast, Ken Cook from The Prepared Group and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss the top five business marketing strategies for small businesses under $ 5 million in revenue.

Starting and running a successful business can be challenging, especially when one lacks the requisite skills. However, smart entrepreneurs always strive to learn what it takes to build a thriving and sustainable company. Building a robust business entails dedication, hard work, planning, and more. As a business owner, you must consistently put efforts into sales and marketing campaigns to drive growth. In addition, you must understand the nitty-gritty of your business niche and show expertise to stand out of the pack and build trust and loyalty. In today's podcast, Mike Konrad from Aqueous Technologies and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss 'Lessons Learned As a "Reluctant Entrepreneur.

Building a successful business is not all about rolling your sleeve, putting your nose to the grindstone, and getting things done by any means. Although this scrappy means can help get your business off the ground, it cannot lead to sustainable growth and development. Hence, you must have a system in place on which to run your small business. Companies with processes, policies, and procedures achieve their goals faster, minimize errors and maximize productivity. In today's podcast, Owen Enaohwo from Sweet process and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions discuss the keys to effectively building business processes, policies, and procedures.