Sweet Without Sugar

How are your customer service skills? Are you making customer service a priority in day-to-day business? Have your customers shared their positive experiences lately? In this episode, Kaity, Alyssa, and Karine talk about the art of customer service and how sometimes, in small business, it can be lost. We understand how much is on the shoulders of small business owners and how some days, staying on top of the client experience game can be a struggle.We highlight the small business approach to customer service, the most effective way to train staff,  how to develop practices to improve your customer service skills, and share experiences we've had. In this episode:  Kaity Russell, Alyssa Bilmer, and Karine Parthenais 

How do you feel about Tik Tok and Instagram? What differences do you see between both platforms?In this lighthearted episode, Liv,  Alyssa, and Karine chat about which platforms have the best reach, how to decide which platform would work for your small business, and the realities of being online. You'll also hear some backstories on how the team started using social media. Including Alyssa being a fangirl, Liv being a silent watcher on TikTok, and Karine being OG on the gram. In this episode: Olivia Barton, Alyssa Bilmer, and Karine Parthenais

Are there things in your business no longer serving you?  Is your team evolving as you grow? How has your day-to-day schedule pivoted? In this episode, we discuss changes in the structure of your business, changes in your team, and changes in the role you serve in your business to enlighten you and make you feel lighter about adjusting your sails.You'll also learn that our team has completely different takes on change. Who do you most align with? Listen to find out! In this episode: Kaity Russell, Olivia Barton, Karine Parthenais

Ever feel the need to 'fire' a client? You know, the kind of client that has you questioning why you started your business in the first place? We get it. We've been there too.In this episode, we discuss difficult experiences with customers, why it's important to be clear about boundaries, and we make you think about whether or not you're the problem when it comes to overbearing clients.

We're calling this Season 3 because after our move downtown, we kind of left the podcast hanging high and dry. Who knew so much good would come from getting closer to the small business community! (We totally did!)In this episode, we recap small business during a pandemic, how packing our bags and moving from the industrial park to downtown has impacted our business, and we acknowledge all of the folks who have held it together over the last year. What a ride it's been!

If you're reading past the title of this episode, chances are you're feeling like maybe you're not.In this episode, we're chatting about the mistakes we've made with our rates, the mindset needed to feel confident in your value, and why we're cautious about bending over for our clients.

We're kidding. Sort of.You've got a hot minute to make the best impression on perspective clients when they land on your website, so how confident do you feel with what you're putting out there?In this episode we're talking about three basic things we think you should invest in for a solid presence online. Not only will you suck less, but you'll begin to convert more prospects into paying clients.

We know how impactful it can be to find your people! So why haven't you?When you find yourself feeling unmotivated, uninspired, insecure or maybe even lost, connecting with people who get you is a game-changer.We're discussing how The Co. Lab has helped us feel connected and supported, and we hope to inspire you to find the kind of people who can help you stay the path in your business.

We're back with a conversation about vanity metrics! You know, the things you measure that don't mean sh!t and don't necessarily speak to your business success? Yeah. That.If you're struggling to focus on the metrics that matter, spend more time looking at the number count on your IG following than the numbers you're billing, this episode is for you!We're keeping it real while exploring what's important online and how not to get caught up with that influencer life.

It seems I couldn't do it alone, so now I've got Alycia with me from Social Sorcery!Together, we're going to continue spitting truths about business and brand from the comfort of The Co. Lab!

It's a weird time, isn't it?In this episode I hope to enlighten you and give you permission to choose a direction that works for you during these uncertain times.Best part? You can pick a new lane today and decide it's not for you tomorrow. There's no rule book to get all of us through this, so let's do what feels right.Oh, and the little steps you hear throughout this episode are from my pup. He's in isolation too, you know.

In this quick solo episode, I recap a part of the GEM sessions that struck me. A lot of the goals set by participants were money-related. And while I'm a big fan of making sure you're making bank with your venture, I think being profitable is the byproduct of a much bigger picture.You'll want to listen to this if you're looking to make an impact in your industry this year. Plus, I drop some Lizzo beats, so there's that.Listen now. ⤵️

Have you ever thought about starting your own YouTube channel? Are you hoping to be IG famous? Are you confused about which platform is for you? In this episode, Alyssa Beltempo and I chat about it all!After only two years, she's grown her YouTube subscriber number to over 70k! But that didn't come without its efforts. She dishes about the process of creating one of her videos, the world of slow fashion, and we get real about what it takes to grow a loyal fan base.Want to know more about Ms. Beltempo? Be inspired by her eco-friendly fashion tips? You can find her here:YouTube ChannelInstagramFacebook

Beverley and I have chatted a few times about the world of influencers and content creators. So, we decided it was time to take this conversation online.From a business perspective, I think there's a big miss in opportunity when creatives don't have a product or service to sell to their audience. And from a social media standpoint, Beverley believes there's too much plastic out there.Our opinions may be unpopular, but they are just that. Opinions.If you want to hear our thoughts, you can listen now!If you like what Beverley is all about you can follow her on:Twitter: @hellobeverleyInstagram: @hellobeverleyWebsite: hellobeverley.com

You want small business owners to support your cause this season? Well, it's a two-way street. If you're not willing to invest your dollars with them, why would they invest in you?This episode is quick and dirty, but I think it's a good reminder for those seeking donations or dollars from small business owners this holiday season.Psst. Owners, I'm also addressing how you need to get comfortable saying no when the ask isn't the right fit. Plus, I share tips on how to get involved when the time is right.

I know. This isn't exactly a sweet topic, but it is relevant. Sometimes life kicks you in the feels, and things become so clear.In this second episode, Ange from Nimble Web Co. and I talk about how losing our dads changed the course of our careers, led us to take chances, and helped us focus on what's important.

In this first episode, I give you the rundown on why I became a business & brand strategist, I tell you the truth about my failures, and I enlighten you on why I'm so passionate about working with small businesses and entrepreneurs.