Small Business Big World

 We've enjoyed an amazing journey with our guests, sharing tales of entrepreneurship and the heart that beats within America's small businesses. However, just like any small business owner knows, sometimes you need to take a step back, re-evaluate, and strategize to come back stronger. Join us as we reflect on our progress, and share our plans for an exciting new chapter filled with fresh insights and engaging content that will captivate both current and new listeners.Keep those small business dreams alive and stay tuned for our next chapter!

Unlock the secrets of effective customer relationship management with insights from Jason Atwood of Arkus. You'll discover how CRMs have transformed from simple databases into powerful tools essential for tracking interactions, managing leads, and boosting sales for both B2B and B2C businesses. In this episode of Small Business Big World, Jason breaks down the evolution of CRM systems and their crucial role in providing actionable insights, such as lead scoring and origin tracking, to enhance communication strategies and propel prospects through your sales pipeline.

Learn how to scale a small business with insights from our guest, Jason Atwood of Arkus. Jason shares his journey from a three-person startup to a flourishing company with over 75 employees. Listen as he emphasizes the crucial importance of cash flow management and financial health, providing a candid look at the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Learn from his experiences to better understand how to manage your business's finances and avoid common pitfalls.

Can AI tools really transform your small business into a powerhouse of efficiency and innovation? Join us as we talk with our Marketing Director, Jon Portanova, and learn how AI is not just a tech buzzword but a valuable ally for your small business. From video editing to social media strategies, we'll share real-world examples of how these advanced tools can optimize operations and support your growth journey.

Unlock the power of Individual Contribution Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICRA) and revolutionize your approach to employee benefits! Join us as Ashley McQuade from Venture shares her expertise on how ICRA can transform the way small businesses manage health benefits, offering flexibility and personalization like never before. 

Let's talk about building a business that not only thrives but is also primed for a successful sale. We promise you'll gain invaluable insights from our conversation with Denver business coach Steven Kohnke, as we explore strategies that transform a "mom and pop" operation into a saleable, structured entity. Together, we'll discuss the necessity of having an exit strategy from the start, inspired by Steven's wisdom to "begin with the end in mind." Discover why reducing dependence on a single individual is crucial for increasing your business's value, and learn how to prepare for potential unforeseen circumstances that could force an unexpected exit

Learn how to craft effective Paid Time Off (PTO) policies with HR consultant Dawn Powell as our guide. Why settle for a generic approach when you can tailor your PTO policy to fit your industry's unique needs? Join us as we talk through the best practices, such as simplifying PTO into a single category to avoid micromanaging vacation and sick leave. We also explore the particular challenges of adapting PTO policies across states with varying regulations, including Maine's specific legal requirements for earned paid leave. Dawn shares invaluable insights on the importance of a well-documented policy in an employee handbook, ensuring clarity and fairness for all.

As you prepare for the next chapter of life, what hurdles await you? Join us and special guest Josh Chase from BGA Financial as we unravel the often-overlooked transition into retirement, a significant shift especially challenging for small business owners whose identities are tightly interwoven with their careers. Josh shares his insights into balancing financial plans with emotional readiness. We explore personal stories like that of a newspaper editor grappling with his sense of self-worth after retiring and a receptionist's unexpected approach to her final workday.This episode promises a holistic approach to retirement planning, blending financial readiness with emotional well-being. We emphasize the power of conversations with loved ones and advisors to navigate the fear and uncertainty of retiring. Whether you're considering retiring soon or planning for the distant future, this discussion offers insights to prepare for a satisfying and meaningful life beyond the workforce.

This week, we sit down with Andrea Tetzlaff, the publisher at MaineBiz, who guides us through the publication's journey from a modest monthly issue in 1994 to a vital resource for Maine's small businesses. Andrea sheds light on how MaineBiz has consistently provided valuable content and organized networking events to support and connect the local business community. This episode is packed with insights that highlight the intersection of media and small business.

Unlock the secrets of strategic planning and elevate your small business with insights from Amanda Majewski, Vice President of HCM Services at Higher Level. This episode of Small Business Big World promises you a front-row seat to Amanda's journey of refining business strategies and cultivating a robust company culture. Discover how tools like DISC assessments can transform your hiring processes and enhance team dynamics, and why clearly articulating your mission, vision, and values is essential for attracting top talent, especially those transitioning from larger corporations.Get ready to transform your approach to business planning with our deep dive into brainstorming sessions, vision boards, and the strategic prioritization of ideas. Amanda shares her personal experience with planning retreats and the critical role of management feedback in shaping a cohesive strategy. Learn the importance of community involvement and regular company-wide training sessions in fostering alignment and growth. Through heartfelt self-reflection and continuous dialogue, we'll guide you on how to ensure your team is always working towards the same objectives.Discover the power of team collaboration and the role of regular meetings in assessing operational efficiencies and client relationships. Amanda and I discuss how empowering employees can lead to better client experiences and the tough decisions involved in parting ways with clients who aren't a good fit. By setting clear service standards and maintaining constant communication, align your team and clients on processes and expectations. We'll explore strategic planning methods like SWOT analysis and strategic alignment to enhance client satisfaction and drive internal growth. This episode is your roadmap to operational and performance improvements that can make a significant impact on your small business.

Unlock the secrets of powerful public relations for small businesses with our special guest, Laura Dolce, the director of the Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel Chamber of Commerce. Discover how even the smallest news—like promotions, product launches, and anniversaries—can make headlines and breathe new life into your business. Laura explains how lean newsrooms are hungry for ready-to-publish stories and offers actionable insights on crafting compelling press releases. Tune in and give your small business the PR boost it deserves!

Navigate legal challenges that small businesses face daily with insights from our special guest, attorney Pat Brady of Bergen and Parkinson. Learn how corporate housekeeping and record-keeping, such as maintaining up-to-date bylaws and operating agreements, can protect your business from potential liability risks. Pat talks the necessity of documenting significant decisions through consent resolutions and the importance of getting signatures on certain documents. This episode is packed with actionable insights to help you safeguard and sustain your small business in a legally compliant and professionally sound manner. Don't miss it!

Unlock the secrets to growing your social following with digital marketing expert Matt Diamante from HeyTony Agency! Matt takes us on his journey from a referral-based business to becoming a social media sensation, all thanks to the wisdom from "The One Thing" and "Jab Jab Jab Right Hook." Get ready for some actionable tips on content writing, blog posts, and effective keyword utilization to boost your Google rankings and enhance your social media game.Join us for this episode packed with practical advice, real-world examples and Matt's story that will transform your approach to creating content for your social media.

Can networking truly transform your small business? Join us on Small Business Big World as we sit down with Ashley Winslow from Bangor Savings, who brings her wealth of experience in networking to the table. With insights from her own initiative, Ashley uncovers the secrets to expanding your business's reach through a community built on trust and professionalism. Learn why commitment is crucial and how surrounding yourself with reliable professionals can be a game-changer for your referrals and client relationships.We also share actionable strategies for making networking a consistent and effective part of your business routine. From engaging new contacts with confidence to setting clear goals and seeking advice from seasoned networkers, Ashley and I explore the nuances of both formal and informal networking events.  Get inspired to start, commit, and grow on your networking journey with tips that prioritize meaningful connections over superficial ones.

Unlock the secrets to standing out in today's crowded digital marketplace with insights from Rich Brooks of Flyte New Media. Rich introduces us to his "Remarkability Formula," a powerful tool comprising four key lenses: Find, Focus, Forge, and Frame. Discover how these elements can help you pinpoint what makes your business unique, zone in on your niche, create offerings aligned with your mission, and reposition your brand to attract your ideal customers. This episode is packed with actionable strategies for branding, customer targeting, and effective marketing, all essential for small businesses aiming for growth and success. Rich Brooks also hosts a podcast called 'The Agents of Change'.  Further, he hosts a digital marketing conference called the 'The Agents of Change Conference' each October.  This conference brings in many marketing experts from across the country to cover things like local SEO, AI in marketing, creating successful LinkedIn ads, and much more!  'Listeners of Small Business Big World' can receive $25 off tickets by using the promo code "bigworld" when purchasing.

Unlock the secrets to online success with our latest episode of Small Business Big World, where we break down the essentials of search engine optimization (SEO) with our very own marketing director, Jon Portanova. Ever wondered how small tweaks can boost your website's visibility on Google? Jon takes us through the must-know basics of on-page, off-page, and technical SEO. From the importance behind keywords and meta descriptions to the power of internal linking, learn how the latest changes in Google's algorithm can either help or hinder your web presence.This episode offers tips on optimizing your Google My Business profile and leveraging the full potential of social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Jon also shares the often-overlooked technical aspects of SEO that can make a huge difference, including site structure and optimized image formats to enhance page speed and user experience.  Whether you're new to SEO or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insights that could propel your small business to online prominence. Don't miss out!

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to safeguarding your small business? Join us as we sit down with Detective Steve Borst from the Kennebunk Police Department, who shares his insights on essential security measures that every small business owner should know. From the basics of securing your premises with locks, lighting, and cameras to the importance of community programs like Virtual Neighborhood Watch, Detective Borst provides expert advice on creating a safe environment for your employees and customers. We'll also discuss the critical need for registering your business with local authorities, ensuring effective communication and support during incidents.

Why are small businesses in Maine facing skyrocketing health insurance premiums, and what can they do about it? Join us as we dive into this urgent issue with Connor Kennedy from Acadia Benefits. We'll unpack the complexities of the community-rated small group market, discussing how Maine's aging population and high healthcare costs are pushing premiums higher and higher. You'll gain insights into the implications of merging the individual and small group markets, the standardization of plans and rates, and the effects of the individual mandate's repeal on the insurance pool. This episode promises to equip you with the understanding needed to navigate these turbulent waters.

Unlock the secrets of effective HR management for your small business with our HR consultant Dawn Pahel on "Small Business Big World".  Dawn and I dissect these nuances of employee classifications, alongside essential compliance topics like overtime laws and youth employment regulations. We share practical strategies for managing remote employees spread across multiple states and emphasize the importance of keeping labor law posters updated and accessible to all staff, whether they're in the office or working from home. Tune in as we highlight the significance of annual harassment training, focusing on state-specific mandates in places like Maine and California. Dawn offers valuable tips for seasonal businesses and the benefits of digital training solutions. We also discuss the meticulous handling of I-9 forms and the strategic importance of performance development, succession planning, and backup plans for key employees. 

Commercial insurance isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about safeguarding your business's future. This week on "Small Business, Big World," we sit down with Derek Stevenson from Varney Insurance to dissect the essential types of coverage every small business needs and mistakes that they make. From general liability and property insurance to workers' compensation and EPLI, Derek provides a comprehensive guide to securing your business against unforeseen setbacks. Derek and I discuss the often-overlooked exclusions in property insurance policies that could leave your business vulnerable. As our world becomes increasingly digital, we uncover how this shift impacts insurance underwriting and risk assessment, offering practical advice for staying ahead.  Cybersecurity is no longer optional; it's a necessity. In this episode, we offer actionable tips for business owners to safeguard your operations. This is one not to miss!

Let's talk cash flow and entrepreneurial growth with our guest, Doug Spurling, founder of Waves and Wilderness and Spurling Fitness. In this episode of "Small Business Big World," Doug takes us through his journey from building Spurling Fitness to venturing into consulting and real estate investment. Learn about some strategies of managing cash flow and increasing net worth, and discover why it's essential to work on your business rather than just in it. Doug shares insights on scaling a business, shifting from a doer to a manager, and the importance of sales, marketing, and team development.  Then, Doug talks about his personal experience of turning a lake house into a successful Airbnb venture, emphasizing planning for the future and using your business cash flow adequately. This episode is packed with practical tips to help you manage and grow your net worth effectively.Paper Trails was recently ranked on FeedSpot's list of the Top 100 Small Business Podcasts!

Get ready to talk small business ownership with Pat Brady, an attorney at Bergen Parkinson and a small business owner in Maine. Have you ever wondered how to find the perfect business to buy or what steps are involved in making it legally yours? We'll guide you through online platforms and dive into the importance of industry relationships and succession planning. Pat shares his firsthand experiences acquiring small businesses, offering invaluable insights and practical tips for aspiring business owners.Forming a legal entity for your new venture doesn't have to be scary. Learn about the role of a Letter of Intent (LOI) in setting the groundwork for your purchase, and discover why an LLC might be the best choice for your business structure. Pat emphasizes the flexibility and liability protection LLCs offer, especially compared to corporations and sole proprietorships. We also explore the strategic benefits of setting up multiple LLCs, particularly for real estate investments, and the essential elements of an operating agreement to keep your business running smoothly.This is a great episode for anyone looking into buying and/or selling a small business.

Ever wondered how small business owners manage everything when it comes to traveling for work? Join us as Kortney Nedeau, a small business professional, shares her fascinating journey from her grandfather's shoe leather sales legacy to building her own thriving business. With Kortney, we explore the relentless world of travel for business. Learn how she uses certain hacks to streamline her travel and maximize certain (tax!) rewards.This episode isn't just about logistics—it's about the art of balancing work and personal life on the road. Discover Kortney's approach to managing her schedule and the importance of embracing local culture to enrich each trip.  Whether you're a seasoned business traveler or gearing up for your first trip, this episode is packed with tips and inspiration to make your journeys more efficient and enriching.

What happens when an internship transforms from a simple summer job into a comprehensive, career-shaping experience? Join us as we welcome Don Golini, the visionary behind the Nonantum Resort's revitalized internship program in Kennebunkport. From an informal start to a structured, multifaceted initiative post-COVID, Don takes us through the program's evolution. Discover the blend of departmental rotations, workshops, volunteer opportunities, and personal portfolio development that not only attracts hospitality majors but also students interested in honing their business skills. Gain insights into the recruitment process and the significant positive impact the program has made on the resort's workforce.We also explore the intimate and vibrant work culture at the Nonantum Resort, emphasizing the essential role of having a dedicated internship manager. Learn how cross-functional collaboration and creative problem-solving—like assigning special projects during a rainy summer—have propelled the program's success. Small Business Big World was recently ranked #48 on FeedSpot's list of the Best Small Business Podcasts!

Unlock the secrets to content marketing with insights from our marketing director, Jon Portanova. Discover how adopting the "They Ask, You Answer" philosophy has transformed Paper Trails' approach to addressing customer queries upfront. We dive deeper into the strategic value of high-quality content creation. We'll guide you through our journey of producing varied content, such as blogs, videos, and webinars, that has set us apart from other competitors. By openly discussing pricing and competitor comparisons, we build trust and credibility. Hear how one well-crafted article led to significant recurring revenue by addressing potential clients' needs and questions upfront, proving the long-term benefits of comprehensive content.Small Business Big World was recently ranked #48 on FeedSpot's list of the Top 100 Small Business Podcasts!

Are you ready to unlock the secrets of scaling a small business from the ground up? Join us on "Small Business Big World" as we sit down with Chris Fortin, the owner of Service Bros. Chris started his entrepreneurial journey during the COVID-19 lockdown while still in high school, initially watering lawns for his father's landscaping business and quickly expanding into odd jobs. He shares how he leveraged word of mouth and local Facebook groups to grow his business. Chris's story is a must-listen for anyone navigating the early stages of business growth.Chris discusses why transparency and understanding their limits were crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction. We also touch on the dynamics of running a business with a close friend, managing operations remotely while attending college, and their commitment to community support through affordable moving options and partnerships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity. Small Business Big World has been featured by FeedSpot as a top 50 small business podcast!  Check it out here!

Ever wondered how honing in on a niche could transform your business? This week's episode of Small Business Big World promises to uncover the power of specialization.  We're joined by Derek Stevenson from the Varney Agency, who shares his journey of overcoming the initial hesitation of narrowing his focus. We unpack the complexities of industries like construction and hospitality, where specialized knowledge is essential, and discuss the importance of having advisors who understand the intricacies of your field.We explore various strategies, from leveraging social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to more traditional methods such as trade groups and maintaining relationships for long-term success. Packed with practical advice and inspiring stories, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to refine their business niche and achieve sustainable success.Small Business Big World was featured by FeedSpot as a top 50 small business podcast.  Check it out here!

Unlock the secrets of small business lobbying with Lauren LePage from Fyre Strategies. In this episode, we dissect the complexities of government affairs and their impact on small enterprises. This episode promises to steer you through the legislative maze, shedding light on strategies that can turn policy hurdles into strides of advocacy for your business. Discover how trade associations and industry groups can amplify your voice in the legislative arena, and why these connections are particularly potent in states like Maine. Listen in for practical advice on staying ahead of legislative developments and leveraging the collective power of small businesses to influence policy that impacts our economy's backbone.Small Business Big World has been featured in Feedspot's Top 100 Small Business Podcasts!  Check it out at here!

Unlock some unique employee benefits to help drive a dedicated and driven workforce as we sit down with Nate Moody from LaBelle and Harriman. In the rapidly evolving job market, learn how companies are moving beyond the norm to provide holistic support systems to their employees.  This includes everything from tackling student loan debt with expanded Section 127 plans to cultivating a shared sense of ownership through Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). Learn some of the innovative strategies at play in the world of employee perks, as our conversation with Nate sheds light on the trend towards flexibility, authenticity, and personalization in the workplace.

Have you ever wondered what it's like to juggle the energy of a teen workforce? This week, we're scooping out insights with Scott McNeff, whose seasonal ice cream shop has become a hub for responsible, local teenagers looking to dip their cones into the world of work. Scott shares his recipe for blending school schedules, sports, and service in a business that thrives on evening rushes and the fleeting summer months.Turn up the volume as we unwrap the layers of running a family business that's not just about profits, but about shaping the future. It's a place where mentoring goes hand-in-hand with managing, and where the off-season stirs up a quest for purpose that lasts all year round. 

Join us as we chat with Eric Hrubant from CIRE Travel for a practical discussion on the evolving role of travel agents in today's industry. Discover strategies for attracting both agents and influencers to your business, along with tips for curating exceptional travel experiences and standing out in the market. We'll debunk myths about influencers overshadowing traditional consultants, explore social media tactics, and offer insights on online reputation management. Plus, learn about the importance of building strong relationships and deep knowledge to enhance your travel services.

In this episode, we sit down with Josh Holt from Steward Partners to break down essential tax strategies and investment advice for small business owners. We'll talk through complex tax laws and discuss the value of professional advice in protecting and growing your assets.Moreover, we delve into broader investment and financial planning, highlighting options like cash balance plans and Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). We also cover recent updates in tax legislation that could impact your business. Join us to gain insights into securing your business's financial health.

In this episode, we sit down with former small business owner, Nick Wright, to talk through the process of successfully selling your small business. Nick shares his recent, firsthand experience and expert insights on navigating the intricate process of selling a business, from preparing your company for sale to negotiating with potential buyers. Whether you're considering an exit strategy or simply curious about the process, this episode is packed with practical tips, real-world advice, and invaluable lessons learned from Nick's journey.

In this episode of Small Business Big World, we sit down with Conner Kennedy, an expert from Acadia Benefits, to explore the often complex world of benefits for small businesses. From health and wellness programs to employee benefits packages, Conner shares invaluable insights and practical advice to help small business owners navigate the ever-evolving landscape of benefits.  Whether you're just starting out or looking to enhance your existing benefits package, this episode is a must-listen for any small business owner. 

In this episode of "Small Business Big World," we're joined by Jonathan Johnson from Kasprzak Insurance to delve into the world of insurance for small businesses. Jonathan will share expert insights and practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of insurance and make informed decisions to help safeguard your business against unforeseen risks and liabilities.

In this episode of Small Business Big World, we sit down with Mark Osborn, owner of the Topside Inn located in Boothbay Harbor, ME, to dive deep into how hospitality businesses gear up for the bustling tourist season.Mark shares insights from his experience managing two distinct hotels and a vacation rental business, shedding light on the meticulous preparations required for a successful season. From timing renovations to estimating business volume and navigating staffing challenges, Mark provides practical advice and strategies for maximizing success during the busy season.

In this episode of Small Business Big World, we're joined by Becky Jacobson, representing HospitalityMaine, to dive deep into the world of trade shows and details the immense value they offer to small business owners. From networking opportunities to showcasing products and services, Becky shares invaluable insights and practical advice on how to maximize your presence and ROI at trade shows. 

In this episode of "Small Business Big World," we're joined by Laura Dolce, the Director of the Kennebunk Maine Chamber of Commerce, to explore how small businesses can maximize their membership benefits in a chamber or trade organization. Laura shares insights on how to navigate the various programs, events, and networking opportunities available through the chamber, as well as tips on how to actively engage and contribute as a member. Join us as we dive into practical strategies for leveraging the resources and opportunities offered by these organizations to support your business growth.

In this episode of "Small Business Big World," join Chris and Jeff to discuss the ins and outs of pricing your services. Together, they dive into best practices for determining the value of your offerings and recognizing the expertise of both yourself and your business.  Tune in as they share practical tips and strategies to help you set prices that reflect the true worth of your services while ensuring profitability and sustainability for your business. 

In this episode of "Small Business Big World," we explore retirement plans for small businesses with our guest, Nate Moody from Lebel and Harriman Retirement Advisors. Join us as we break down different retirement plan options, review defined benefit versus defined contribution plans and discuss tax credits for employers.  Tune in to hear Nate's expertise on simplify the complexities of retirement planning, ensuring you're equipped to secure a stable future for yourself and your employees.

In this episode of "Small Business Big World," we dive into the world of video content marketing with our guest, Graham Duval from Valüd Productions. We discuss the impact of video content on social media engagement and discover strategies for creating videos that resonate with your audience. From increasing brand awareness to driving sales, tune in to learn actionable tips and insights on using video content to boost your business's online presence and drive growth.

In this episode of "Small Business Big World," we're diving into the world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the workplace alongside our special guest, Colby Bracy from Hello Humans HR Consulting and the esteemed Nonantum Resort in Kennebunk. Join us for an insightful discussion on how DEI practices influence real-life workplaces, promoting inclusivity and driving business success. Tune in for practical strategies and meaningful conversations that can help shape a more diverse and equitable workplace environment.

Welcome to Small Business Big World! I'm Chris Cluff, and I'm thrilled to kick off this podcast journey with you.In this first episode, we're here to give you a warm introduction to Small Business Big World, your go-to resource for small business insights. Think of us as your friendly guide through the maze of small business management.Join us for a quick chat about what you can expect from future episodes. We'll touch on everything from HR and payroll, to small business tips and tricks, that will help you thrive in your business.And hey, let's stay connected! Find us on social media and become part of our growing community on your favorite podcast platform.Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, there's something here for everyone. So hit that subscribe button, and let's dive into the world of small business together!