This Is Small Business

What happens when your viral moment finally comes — and you're not ready for it?Aliett Buttleman, co-founder of Fazit, only had 300 TikTok followers when she said her goal was to get Taylor Swift to wear her product. And she made it happen. But that moment wasn't luck. It was the result of two scrappy founders, a small but strategically allocated budget, and years of rejection, pivots, and TikTok experiments. Host Andrea Marquez unpacks the strategy behind how Aliett made a viral celebrity moment happen and why she keeps leaning into discomfort to keep growing. You'll learn how to build buzz without a big budget, why your wildest ideas might be your best ones and how to stay ready so that when your big moment comes, you're not just hoping it works. You're ready to make it count.Got a bold leap of your own? Share it with us in an Apple Podcasts review, Spotify comment, or email us at thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com – you might hear it in a future episode.In this episode you'll hear:(02:07) Ever felt lost in your career or like you don't quite fit into a single box? Here's why Aliett started her own company.(04:50) Why start a business when you've seen how hard it is? Aliett's early consulting work almost convinced her not to become a founder – here's what changed her mind.(07:25) How do you kickstart sales with a small budget and no team? The scrappy TikTok strategy Aliett used to grow an audience and why 30 million views didn't lead to a single sale.(09:11) What keeps you going when investors say no again and again? Aliett opens up about the emotional toll of 150 VC rejections and why she kept going.(12:20) Curious how to raise money for your startup when VCs say no? Hear how Aliett and her co-founder Nina pushed through rejection, won a competition, and raised their first $200,000.(15:50) What do you do when retailers and investors aren't interested even when you've gone viral? For Aliett and Nina, it meant pivoting and moving on to the next product.(19:01) Is it crazy to imagine Taylor Swift wearing your product one day? That's exactly what happened to Aliett. And here's how that surreal moment unfolded and how Aliett capitalized on it.(25:17) How do you get Taylor Swift to wear your product? It's not luck and Aliett reveals the behind-the-scenes scramble and marketing strategy that turned a viral moment into a lasting brand.(29:45) What does it take to succeed without a Plan B? Aliett reflects on discomfort, delusion, and why chasing safety never built anything bold.

What were you doing when you were 12? Blake Shook, the founder of Desert Creek Honey, was wrangling swarms of bees and selling honey – all before middle school let out. What began as a childhood hobby sparked a decades-long entrepreneurial journey that led to the creation of a multi-million honey empire with over 120 employees. But before reaching that level of success, Blake lost his entire bee population – just as he was deciding whether to go to college – and had to choose whether to walk away or take the biggest risk of his life. Host Andrea Marquez explores how Blake scaled a business built around something delicate and unpredictable and what it takes to keep moving forward when your livelihood depends on something you can't fully control. If you've ever wondered whether you really need a degree to build something big or how to bounce back when everything you've built disappears overnight, this is the story for you.Got a bold leap of your own? Share it with us in an Apple Podcasts review, Spotify comment, or email us at thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com – you might hear it in a future episode.In this episode you'll hear:(01:04) What is it like to peer into a beehive for the first time? Blake describes the moment he lifted the lid and discovered a hidden world of 80,000 bees working in perfect harmony.(6:54) When do you know a hobby can turn into a business? Blake shares the “aha” moment when he got his very first honey order.(10:36) What if your business disappeared overnight? In beekeeping, that can mean the death of all your bees. Blake talks about the hardest lesson he ever had to learn.(14:42) When everything seems to be going wrong, do you give up or go all in? Blake explains the choice he made.(16:14) How do you rebuild after losing everything? Blake turned failure into fuel by learning from seasoned beekeepers—and earned his comeback one hive at a time.(18:02) Looking for some advice on managing risk? Here's why diversification is important. (19:21) What happens when you're suddenly forced to scale up? For Blake, a reality TV show became an unexpected opportunity that ultimately led to six separate businesses.(23:07) Is passion enough to sustain an entrepreneur? Hear why Blake believes his real job is to work himself out of a job.

What if your business took off before you were ready? No team. No investors. Just a homemade product and a sudden wave of demand. That's exactly what happened to Adria Marshall, founder of Ecoslay. When her flaxseed hair gel went viral overnight, she had to decide: shut it down or take the risk and build something bigger. Host Andrea Marquez unpacks how Adria scaled her side hustle into a purpose-driven brand, why staying small was her boldest move, and how she learned to embrace risk despite being a planner obsessed Virgo. Adria's journey will show you how to build something real with what you already have. No MBA, no perfect plan – just purpose, persistence, and a few exploding jars along the way. If you're waiting for the “perfect” moment to start, this is your sign: the mess is the journey.Got a bold leap of your own? Share it with us in an Apple Podcasts review, Spotify comment, or email us at thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com – you might hear it in a future episode.In this episode you'll hear:(01:47) Can solving your own problem turn into a business? Hear how Adria's hair journey – and an obsession with DIY – sparked the beginnings of Ecoslay.(05:00) Do you have to know what you're doing before you start? Adria talks about launching her first product with no experience and no formal plan.(06:53) What do you do when an expert says your idea won't work? Adria hires a chemist who said her formula was impossible – so she proved him wrong.(08:13) What would you do if your side hustle goes viral overnight? The moment a YouTuber changed everything for Ecoslay and how Adria juggled the chaos with a full-time job.(14:40) What if your product starts exploding in the mail? The hard (and messy) lessons Adria learned and how she bounced back from her mistakes.(16:38) How do you keep going when everything feels like too much? Adria shares how she grounds herself in difficult moments – and why making risky, values-driven decisions (like ditching plastic packaging) became her boldest moves.(22:27) Still waiting for the “perfect” moment to start? Why Adria now sees risk as a teacher – and how she learned to bet on herself before she felt ready.

When Partake Foods founder Denise Woodard's daughter had a life-threatening allergic reaction, everything changed. That moment inspired Denise to launch an allergy-friendly snack company that's now worth millions and serves thousands of families across the U.S. But starting a food business from scratch with no baking experience and no outside funding meant taking one bold risk after another. Host Andrea Marquez talks with Denise about her transition from corporate executive to entrepreneur, how she kept going after getting 86 investor no's (at least) until she landed a yes from Jay-Z's VC firm, and how to validate a product before it exists. If you've ever been afraid of hearing “no,” Denise's story will change how you think about risk, resilience, and the power of starting small.Got a bold leap of your own? Share it with us as an Apple Podcasts review, Spotify comment, or email us at thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com – you might hear it in a future episode.In this episode you'll hear:(00:00) Ever felt like you needed a “perfect” plan before starting? Hear how Denise launched Partake Foods with no product, no baking skills – just a very personal “why.”(04:55) What if a stranger at the zoo told you to start a business? Denise shares the serendipitous moment that gave her the push she needed.(09:20) Struggling to get others to believe in your idea? Learn how Denise turned a cold shoulder from a manufacturer into a yes.(11:21) Feel like you have to do it all yourself? Denise opens up about making costly mistakes, asking for help, and finding the right people to bring her vision to life.(16:27) Thinking about quitting your job to go all in? Denise shares the very unglamorous reality of her first day as a full-time founder.(21:17) Tired of rejection? Hear how Denise pushed through 86 investor no's and how one yes from Jay-Z's VC firm changed everything.(25:28) Afraid to take risks? Denise's advice for fellow risk-averse founders will make you rethink what it really means to start small.

What do you do when your glasses don't fit well – and the eyewear industry doesn't see the problem? For best friends Tracy Green and Nancey Harris, co-founders of Vontélle Eyewear, the answer was bold: start their own company. In the season six premiere of This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez kicks off her personal mission to become more of a risk-taker so she could eventually start her own business by learning from two women who embraced the curveballs that life threw at them and came out stronger. If you've ever felt like you couldn't take the leap, Tracy and Nancey's story might just be the push you need.Got a bold leap of your own? Share it with us as an Apple Podcasts review, Spotify comment, or email us at thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com – you might hear it in a future episode.In this episode you'll hear:(00:33) How listeners like you are stepping outside their comfort zones – plus, Andrea shares why she's finally facing her fear of risk.(03:35) How losing a favorite pair of glasses sparked an impromptu trip to Paris and a new business idea – and why noticing everyday problems is your first step to innovation.(10:51) Ever wonder how to know when it's time to go all in? Tracy and Nancey were juggling full-time jobs, family responsibilities, and a pandemic – until they realized they couldn't wait for the “perfect” time to start.(14:17) When everything goes wrong, do you pause or push through? From a health scare to a fire, these founders share how staying focused on their mission helped them overcome obstacles and keep building.(17:58) The small wins, like a single email from a customer, can keep you going when self-doubt creeps in. Hear what kept Tracy and Nancey going, even when things got rough.(20:17) How Tracy and Nancey pivoted from direct-to-consumer to wholesale and got creative about growing their business.(22:55) Get advice on how to decide when to leap, when to pause, and how to bounce back from failure without losing momentum.

What if your customers could become your best marketers?In this minisode of Small Business Bytes on This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez dives into the power of user-generated content (UGC) and why UGC is a game-changer for businesses of all sizes. You'll learn how UGC builds trust, loyalty, and engagement with your audience, discover simple ways to encourage your customers to create content, and get actionable tips to use UGC effectively.Whether you're a brand that's just getting started or an established business looking to grow, this minisode will give you tools you can tap into when it comes to the content your customers are already creating.So, how will you start leveraging UGC? Share your ideas or results with us in a Spotify comment, Apple Podcasts review, or email us at Thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com. Doing that will not only hold you accountable but could also inspire another entrepreneur to take their next big step.Sources: If you want to know more about influencer marketing and Brittany Hennessy's story, listen to: How Influencer marketing Can Help You Grow Your Business - This is Small BusinessIf you want to know more about marketing and Liz Downing's story, listen to: How to Build Your Marketing Strategy - This is Small BusinessConsumer Behavior Stats 2021: The Post-Pandemic Shift in Online Shopping Habit - NostoUGC Content 101: A Comprehensive Introduction - American Marketing AssociationConsumer Confessions: How does UGC Impact and Influence the Shopping Experience? - TurnTo NetworksWhy User-Generated Content Is Winning - Forbes

Your pitch is more than just words – it's your first impression, your story, and your chance to stand out. But how do you pack all that into just 60 seconds or less?In this minisode of Small Business Bytes on This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez walks you through how to craft an elevator pitch that grabs attention, tells a compelling story, and leaves people wanting more. Whether you're pitching to a potential customer, investor, or partner, you'll walk away with actionable steps to make every second count.You'll also get inspired by real-life examples of past guests who've crafted pitches that opened doors for their businesses – like Felicia Jackson, founder of CPR Wrap, who turned a personal crisis into a life-saving product, Matthew Tesvich, founder of Skunk Skin, who solved a smelly problem with humor and creativity, and more! These stories will bring the steps to life and show you exactly how to apply those lessons to your own pitch.So, what's your pitch? Share it (or just one line) with us in a Spotify comment, Apple Podcasts review, or email us at Thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com. Doing that will not only hold you accountable but could also inspire another entrepreneur to take their next big step.Sources: If you want to know more about CPR Wrap, listen to Felicia's story here: Every Entrepreneur's Dream: ‘Your Product Is a Life Saver!' - TISB: Behind The BuyIf you want to know more about Skunk Skin, listen to Matthew's story here: Knock Their Socks Off: A Fresh Solution to a Stinky Problem - TISB: Behind The BuyIf you want to know more about Shezza Socks, listen to Tiffany's story here: From Blisters to Breakthrough: Behind Shezza Socks' Viral Success - TISB: Behind The BuyIf you want to know more about Agua Bonita, listen to Kayla's story here: A Taste of Tradition: Infusing Heritage in Every Sip - TISB: Behind The Buy11 actually great elevator pitch examples and how to make yours - Zapier

People don't just buy products – they buy stories. So how do you tell yours in a way that sticks, connects, and builds loyalty?In this minisode of Small Business Bytes on This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez explains how you can write a brand story that does more than just sell – it builds a loyal customer base. You'll learn how to craft your story, why embracing your struggles can make your brand more relatable and inspiring, and how to weave your customers into your story so they see themselves in your mission.Plus, you'll hear real-life examples from past guests like Conchita Pleasant, the founder and CEO of Nefertiti's Secrets and Ray Phillips, the CEO of Soap Sox, who turned personal challenges into powerful brand stories that inspire and connect.By the end of this minisode, you'll have tools to craft a story that doesn't just explain what you do – it'll show why it matters.So, what's your story? Share it with us (or even just a piece of it) in a Spotify comment, Apple Podcasts review, or email us at Thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com. Doing that will not only hold you accountable but could also inspire another entrepreneur to take their next big step.Sources: If you want to know more about Nefertiti's Secrets, listen to Conchita's story here: How Looking Back Can Lead to Forward-Thinking Business Ideas - This is Small BusinessIf you want to know more about Soap Sox, listen to Ray's story here: From Concept to Reality: Building and Validating Your Business Idea - This is Small BusinessHow to Tell a Compelling Brand Story [Guide + Examples] - HubspotPeople Buy Feelings, Not Things - Tony RobbinsStart with Why - Simon Sinek

Perfectionism is the enemy of progress. It's the voice that whispers, ‘Just one more tweak,' while your competitors are already out there, learning and growing. In this minisode of Small Business Bytes on This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez dives into why waiting for perfection can sabotage your success – and what you can do to break free and start making progress.Hear from past guests like Mayra Luz Colón, founder of Healthy Rican, who built a thriving business by learning from her mistakes, Val Fishbane, co-founder of Spread the Love Foods, who refined her product through real customer feedback, and Trinity Mouzon Wofford, the founder and CEO of Golde, who shares how to know when your product is ready to launch. Learn why launching, even when it's not perfect, can build momentum, kill fear, and give you the data you need to grow.Whether you're stuck tweaking a product, redesigning your website, or hesitating to hit “send” on that email, this episode will give you the tools to stop perfecting and start making meaningful progress.So, what's one thing you've been overthinking? And what's one small step you're taking to move forward? Share it with us in a Spotify comment, Apple Podcasts review, or email us at Thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com. Doing that will not only hold you accountable but could also inspire another entrepreneur to take their next big step.Sources: If you want to know more about Spread the Love Foods, listen to Val's story here: Growth Secrets for Food Entrepreneurs: Expanding from Farmer's Markets to E-Commerce - This is Small BusinessIf you want to know more about Healthy Rican, listen to Mayra's story here: How Culture Can Lead to Unique Business Opportunities - This is Small BusinessIf you want to know more about Golde, listen to Trinity's story here: How to Know When You're Ready to Launch Your Product - This is Small BusinessFear Of Failure: The Silent Saboteur Of Entrepreneurial Dreams - Forbes3 Ways Perfectionism Kills Your Business (and How To Overcome It) - Entrepreneur

Discover how your deeper purpose can be a practical tool for long-term planning and overcoming challenges. In the first minisode of Small Business Bytes on This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez dives into the #1 thing every business needs to work on to be able to thrive: your why.Get inspired from past guests like Sean Brownlee of Ravenox, who built his business to create jobs, and Teri Johnson of Harlem Candle Company, whose passion for Harlem's history shaped her unique brand.Whether your ‘why' is rooted in personal passion, solving a problem, chasing financial freedom, or making an impact, this episode will help you define (or refine) your purpose and keep it at the heart of your business.So, what's your why? Share it with us in a Spotify comment, Apple Podcasts review, or email it to us at Thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com. Doing that will not only hold you accountable but could also inspire another entrepreneur to take their next big step.Sources:What ‘Finding Your Why' Really Means - Forbes If you want to know more about Harlem Candle Company, listen to Teri's story here: BONUS: The Benefits of Integrating Culture into Your Products - This is Small BusinessIf you want to know more about Ravenox, listen to Sean's story here: Benefits of Acquiring a Manager - This is Small Business

What's the boldest risk you've ever taken? For entrepreneurs, risk is the heart of the journey. In our newest season of This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez takes you behind the scenes with founders who've turned "maybe one day" into "let's do this!"Join Andrea as she digs into the stories of fearless entrepreneurs who've made life-changing decisions and bet everything on their dreams. From nail-biting moments of uncertainty to those breakthrough successes, Andrea's on a mission to uncover what drives people to take risks.Packed with stories of grit, helpful advice, and a touch of chaos, this podcast will have you asking: What bold move will I take next?So, whether you're dreaming of your first big leap or already living on the edge, This is Small Business is here to inspire you to take that next risk and see where it takes you.And no matter where you fall on the risk spectrum, we want to hear from you! Share your own stories of risk and growth as an Apple podcasts review, Spotify comment, or email them to us at Thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com – maybe you'll get to hear it in an upcoming episode.Before this new season of risk kicks off, we'll be dropping small business bytes on This is Small Business – bite-sized episodes packed with quick tips and actionable insights that could help you level up your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're just starting out or ready to take your next big step, these shorter episodes are your go-to source for small business inspiration.

In the season finale of This is Small Business: Behind the Buy, we follow Derek Tillotson, founder of Haven Tents, and his journey from world traveler to entrepreneur. His game-changing hammock blends the comfort of a bed with the freedom of camping. What started as a family adventure evolved into a crowdfunding success! You can watch Haven Tent's episode on the Buy it Now show titled: The Panel Find Their Haven in the Woods. Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video.In this episode you'll discover:(2:03) Derek shares how a family adventure sparked the idea for Haven Tents, starting with a simple desire to improve outdoor sleeping.(7:15) How a Facebook video seeking a travel nanny unexpectedly went viral, giving Derek his first taste of public attention and setting the stage for his entrepreneurial journey.(12:45) We learn about the challenges he faced while developing the hammock prototype, including design failures and early setbacks that tested his resolve.(18:30) How Derek successfully crowdfunded his product, turning early skepticism into financial backing that made production possible.(22:10) Tensions rise as Derek pitches his hammock on Buy It Now, with a humorous mishap when one of the judges accidentally falls.

Meet Kerry Cooke and her daughter Kat, the founders of Spleash—a multi-functional dog leash holder that hydrates, cools, and cleans your pet on the go. Kerry and Kat share the emotional journey behind their product, born from a need to care for their own dogs during tough times. They reveal the challenges they faced, from sketching the first design to overcoming manufacturing hurdles, and how they finally made it onto the Buy It Now show. You can watch Spleash's episode on the Buy it Now show titled: Jamie Gets Buff.Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video.In this episode you'll discover: (0:00) Kerry and Kat were motivated by a genuine need to care for their dogs and give back to the pet community. Their product isn't just practical—it reflects their mission to make a difference. (6:07) Kerry and Kat faced multiple setbacks during the creation of Spleash, including leaks in the first batch and the complexities of manufacturing. Their perseverance and willingness to go back to the drawing board were key to overcoming these challenges. (11:56) The mother-daughter duo rehearsed their pitch relentlessly, practicing in everyday moments until they had it down perfectly. This preparation paid off when they stepped in front of the live audience. (15:49) The judges' feedback, including Tony Hawk's comments and Jamie Siminoff's praise for the design, highlighted how important it is to listen to constructive criticism and make necessary adjustments. (19:59) Kerry and Kat's advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is clear: don't let fear of failure hold you back. They emphasize the importance of pushing forward with belief in your idea, no matter how difficult the road may be.

Tiffany Gil, the CEO and inventor behind Shezza Socks, creates foam-padded socks designed to prevent blisters. Tiffany's journey to entrepreneurship started as a high schooler struggling with painful blisters from new shoes. After years of refining her idea and overcoming challenges—like securing funding by winning a cross-country lawnmower race—Tiffany's product went viral on TikTok. This led Tiffany to pitch her brand on the Buy It Now show, where she impressed a panel of judges, including Jamie Siminoff (founder of Ring) and celebrity entrepreneur Gwyneth Paltrow. You can watch Shezza Socks' episode on the Buy it Now show titled: The Panel Get Grilled. Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video. In this episode you'll discover: (0:07) How Tiffany solved a personal problem. Tiffany created Shezza Socks after struggling with painful blisters from new shoes, turning a personal issue into a business idea.(5:55) Tiffany funded her business by winning a lawnmower race and entering pitch competitions, showing the value of persistence and resourcefulness.(7:59) How Tiffany leveraged social media to gain entrepreneurial recognition. A viral TikTok video helped Shezza Socks gain traction, demonstrating the power of social media for marketing.(14:10) The importance of valuing and embracing feedback. Tiffany received valuable feedback on her brand name from industry leaders, showing the importance of being open to criticism and adapting.

Meet Khadijah Robinson, the founder and CEO of Aqua Waterproof Headwear, a line of waterproof turbans and head wraps. Khadijah's journey began with a personal challenge: trying to protect her hair extensions while snorkelling on vacation. Frustrated by the lack of suitable products, she created her own solution—waterproof headwear that is both stylish and functional!Khadijah faced numerous setbacks, from struggling to find the right fabric to losing money when her first manufacturer went bankrupt. Her determination paid off when she found a supportive seamstress and, eventually, a new manufacturer. Eventually, Khadijah's product gained traction and, against the odds, she auditioned for the Buy It Now show on Prime Video earning her a spot on the Buy It Now Amazon store, along with a $20,000 cash prize. You can watch Aqua Waterproof Headwear's episode on the Buy it Now show titled: The Panel Get Confused - And They Like It. Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video. In this episode you'll learn: (03:14) Khadijah's idea for waterproof turbans and headwraps came from a frustrating personal experience while on vacation. She needed a way to keep her hair dry while snorkelling but struggled with the limitations of regular hats and shower caps. (04:19) Khadijah faced significant challenges in bringing her product to life, from struggling to find waterproof fabric to working through multiple prototypes. It took years of effort before she had a working design. (04:49) A chance encounter with a past acquaintance, Lele, a seamstress who had designed Khadijah's prom dress, turned out to be pivotal. Lele helped Khadijah with fabric sourcing, prototypes, and navigating her first manufacturer meetings. (07:18) Even though Khadijah was confident in the demand for her product, she still conducted extensive market research by surveying friends and visiting hair stores to confirm the need for waterproof headwear.(07:46) Khadijah describes the overwhelming sense of gratitude when she made her product live and started receiving orders. It reaffirmed that her hard work was paying off, even though the process had been stressful and uncertain. (08:17) After her original manufacturer went bankrupt, Khadijah didn't give up on her business. Instead, she used the setback as fuel to push harder and ultimately find a new, better manufacturer. (11:25) For the "Buy It Now" show, Khadijah practiced tirelessly to perfect her pitch. She used flashcards, rehearsed in front of a camera, and worked on her delivery to ensure she'd make a strong impression on the judges.(19:40) Winning the $20,000 prize not only boosted Khadijah's confidence but also helped her expand her product line, restock inventory, and invest in broader marketing efforts, including reaching more diverse audiences.

Jaime Salcedo, the founder of Painless Picasso, a numbing cream designed to alleviate pain during tattooing, piercing, waxing, and laser treatments shares his entrepreneurial story. From his beginnings as a tattoo artist to creating a product that challenges the norm in the beauty industry, Jaime shares the highs and lows of building a business from the ground up. Despite freezing up during his pitch on Buy It Now and facing tough questions from the judges, Jaime's authenticity and passion for helping people shone through, earning him a spot on Amazon's Buy It Now store and a $20,000 cash prize. You can watch Painless Picasso's episode on the Buy it Now show titled: The Panel Meet Dua Leafa. Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video. In this episode you'll learn: (03:43) Jaime shares how, as a tattoo artist with no chemistry background, dove into the world of numbing creams and sought advice to create a safer alternative.(04:52) Jaime's first step in turning his idea into a business was calling the FDA to learn about the regulations surrounding numbing creams, demonstrating the value of asking questions when starting something new.(05:16) Jaime reflects on his experience with joining the bio-tech community, such as Techstars, a venture accelerator that taught him business fundamentals and helped him connect with key resources like chemists.(06:27) Jaime talks about overcoming imposter syndrome by focusing on his strengths as a problem solver and team builder, rather than worrying about what he didn't know.(11:13) Despite freezing during his pitch, Jaime's deep understanding of his product allowed him to answer audience questions with ease, reinforcing the importance of knowing your business.(11:41) Jaime discusses how carefully choosing a price point ($19.99) helped his product stand out and led to a favorable response from the audience during his pitch.(18:26) Jamie Siminoff advises that focusing on one core product—rather than trying to do everything—helps businesses gain traction before expanding into additional markets.

Meet Debra Mastic, the founder of Fluff Trough, a pet feeder designed to enhance mealtime comfort for our furry friends. Debra shares her heartfelt journey, inspired by her beloved pug, Porkchop, who struggled during mealtime. From the challenges of launching a business to overcoming personal obstacles, including a cancer diagnosis, Debra's story is one of resilience and innovation. Discover how she transformed her passion for pets into a thriving product that's making a difference for animals everywhere. You can watch Fluff Trough's episode on the Buy it Now show titled: The Legacy of Porkchop.Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video. In this episode you'll discover:(00:05) Debra emphasizes that how pets are fed is as crucial as what they are fed, advocating for more comfortable feeding solutions.(03:01) Debra's journey began with her pug, Porkchop, whose eating difficulties motivated her to find a better solution for pet feeding.(04:02) After realizing existing products didn't work for Porkchop, Debra used a 3D printer to create prototypes, demonstrating the iterative process of innovation.(04:48) Debra made a significant financial decision by investing her savings into Fluff Trough instead of purchasing a home, showing her commitment to her vision.(06:27) Debra encountered difficulties finding quality manufacturers and managing supply chains, highlighting common hurdles for small businesses.(08:01) Debra's battle with cancer and the loss of Porkchop added emotional depth to her entrepreneurial journey, showing the personal stakes behind her work.(09:28) Despite challenges, Fluff Trough gained international recognition, winning awards and receiving positive customer feedback, underscoring the product's impact.(19:43) Debra shares her belief that businesses should start to solve problems authentically, emphasizing the importance of resilience and learning from failures.

Meet Anissa Pfeifer, the CEO and inventor of the Whiskee Straw, a unique straw with a whisk at the bottom designed to mix drinks like smoothies and coffee. Anissa shares the emotional journey behind creating her product, from the early struggles of running a small boutique to the breakthrough moment when she invented the Whiskee Straw. With her business on the brink of failure, Anissa finds new hope after being invited to pitch her product on the Buy It Now show. After overcoming nerves and delivering an outstanding pitch, Anissa took home a $20,000 prize, which she plans to use to grow her business. Listen to the highlights and challenges of entrepreneurship, the power of perseverance, and the importance of believing in your product and story! You can watch Whiskee Straw's episode on the Buy it Now show titled: A Shocking Game of Golf. Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video. In this episode you'll discover: (00:00) Anissa shares the overwhelming feeling of pride and accomplishment when she uses a product she created, even on the hardest days. This insight emphasizes the emotional toll and reward that comes with building a business from scratch.(04:19) Anissa almost gave up on her entrepreneurial dream after her boutique failed, but she found renewed hope when a new idea emerged. This highlights the need for perseverance, especially when faced with setbacks.(04:33) The idea for the Whiskee Straw came from Anissa's frustration with her smoothie separating while driving to a store. Recognizing real-life problems is often the catalyst for innovation.(05:55) After her husband helped create the first prototype, Anissa realized that having a prototype was just the first step. Convincing customers to buy it was the real challenge, reflecting how launching a product involves more than just creation—it requires customer buy-in.(06:44) Anissa's business gained traction after a few viral reels. This underscores the importance of social media in expanding reach, especially for small businesses with limited marketing budgets.(08:04) After seeing initial success, Anissa faced a slowdown in sales, which led her to question her business's viability. This demonstrates how entrepreneurial journeys often involve peaks and valleys, and how critical it is to stay focused during tough times.(08:46) Anissa received an unexpected email about the Buy It Now show, which she initially thought was spam. This highlights how unforeseen opportunities can sometimes lead to breakthrough moments for small businesses.(09:28) Anissa's emotional breakdown before the show demonstrates how vulnerability can sometimes serve as a motivator. She found strength in her vulnerability and used it as a catalyst to keep going, showing how authenticity can inspire resilience.(12:53) Anissa overcame her nervousness and delivered an engaging pitch, earning 46 green lights from the audience. This proves the importance of being prepared and confident in your pitch—especially when the stakes are high.

Meet Chris Osse, the founder of Armbie, a unique dual-arm support sling designed for comfort during long flights. Chris shares his journey from engineer to entrepreneur, revealing the challenges and triumphs he faced while bringing his innovative product to market. Join us as we explore the passion behind Armbie, the lessons learned along the way, and the pivotal moment that led Chris to pitch his product on the Prime Video show, "Buy It Now.” In this episode, you'll discover:(03:10) Chris discusses his day job as an engineer and how it has shaped his problem-solving mindset. (03:35) A long flight next to large passengers sparks Chris's idea for Armbie. (04:09) Chris reflects on how discomfort led to his engineering brain devising a solution. (04:15) Using a scarf, Chris creates the initial version of Armbie, emphasizing simplicity and portability. (04:46) The lengthy process of perfecting the prototype involved hours of experimenting with fabrics and sizes. (06:05) Life challenges, including a separation, test Chris's resolve but do not extinguish his passion for Armbie. (07:27) During COVID, Chris realizes he has the time and resources to finally pursue his business idea. (09:16) After applying to various entrepreneurial shows, Chris receives encouragement and interest in Armbie. (10:17) The importance of practice and finding the right balance in his pitch becomes clear to Chris. (12:10) Chris's pitch garners 46 green lights from the audience, showing significant interest despite initial skepticism about the product's appearance. (15:14) Positive feedback from judges, despite concerns over price, highlights the innovation of Chris's product. (16:40) Chris celebrates winning a $20,000 cash prize, marking a significant milestone after years of hard work. (17:30) Following his success on the show, Chris receives news that two of his patents are approved, adding to his momentum. (18:58) Chris shares his belief that grit and perseverance are key to success in entrepreneurship.

Kayla Castañeda, founder of Agua Bonita, brings a refreshing twist to the traditional Mexican drink, aguas frescas, blending heritage and innovation in every sip. With a rich personal story rooted in her family's heritage, Kayla's mission is to share an elevated version of this beloved beverage. After navigating challenges like job loss during the pandemic and financial struggles, she successfully funded her startup through pitch competitions, culminating in a victory on Amazon Prime Video's Buy It Now series, where she secured a $20,000 cash prize. Her winning recipe? A powerful blend of authenticity, determination, and connecting with the right audience. You can watch Agua Bonita's episode on the Buy it Now show titled: Tony Pops Off.Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video.

From a chaotic childhood to joining the military at 17, this entrepreneur discovered the therapeutic power of science and gamified it. In this special Veteran's Day episode of This is Small Business, John Coveyou, founder and CEO of Genius Games, a science-based board game company that has sold over half a million units worldwide, shares his journey. He discusses how military principles shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and led him to create engaging educational games. John shares the pivotal moment that inspired his first game and how crowdfunding transformed his hobby into a successful business.In this episode you'll discover: (0:00) How various business principles overlap with lessons learned in the military.(1:50) John explains how his interest in science helped him cope during tough times in the military.(2:59) While teaching chemistry, John noticed that his students were intimidated by the subject, sparking his idea for a game.(03:09) John connects the excitement of gaming to learning science and decides to create a game.(3:50) John details his early experiments with game mechanics and his journey through game design clubs.(4:12) How feedback from play-tests led to the creation of John's first game and the push to publish it.(4:49) John discusses how his crowdfunding campaigns validated his business idea and led to further success.(5:37) The moment John decided to leave his engineering job and pursue his passion full-time.(7:20) John explains the After Action Review process and how it encourages continual improvement in business.(12:35) The power of perspective in entrepreneurship, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.

Matthew Tesvich, the CEO of Skunk Skin turned his personal battle with stinky feet into a thriving business with his innovative odorless socks. Hear about his experience on "Buy It Now," where he impressed judges like Jamie Siminoff, and learn the key lessons he gathered on entrepreneurship, marketing, and overcoming challenges. You can watch Skunk Skin's episode on the Buy it Now show titled: Lions and Ducks and Skunks, Oh My!Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video. In this episode you'll learn: (0:06): How Matthew's lifelong issue with stinky feet inspired him to create Skunk Skin, a line of odorless socks, highlighting the power of turning personal challenges into innovative solutions.(02:38): After a career-ending injury, Matthew pivoted from aspiring baseball player to entrepreneur, demonstrating how setbacks can lead to new opportunities and the importance of creative problem-solving.(06:02): Matthew discusses how he used press and publicity strategies, including catchy email subject lines, to gain media attention and boost sales, underscoring the value of effective marketing in a startup's success.(11:43): Matthew reveals his pitching tactics, including price anchoring and engaging storytelling, that helped him impress the judges and win a spot on the Buy It Now Amazon store, illustrating key techniques for successful pitches.

Meet Keith Lorren, a.k.a. The Spice King on Buy It Now. With his aromatic cooking seasonings, he swooned a panel of industry judges, complete with a live cooking demo and an original song. We delve into how his vibrant personality and unique approach won him a spot in the Buy It Now store and a $20,000 prize. Tune in for an inspiring story of perseverance and creativity that might just ignite your own entrepreneurial dreams. You can watch The Spice King's episode on the Buy it Now show titled: Turning Up the Spice.Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video. In this episode you'll discover: (03:28): Keith's culinary passion stems from a rich family history of cooking, highlighting the importance of heritage in his business journey.(05:46): Overcoming financial hurdles, Keith shares how he used creative strategies like selling Ziploc bags of spices to fund his dream before scaling up.(10:11) His theatrical pitch included a catchy original song, demonstrating the power of creativity in capturing audience attention and standing out in a competitive space.(16:11): After winning the $20,000 prize, Keith immediately focused on improving his product and packaging, showcasing his commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

“Stumble, stumble forward.” That's the key advice of Scott and Paige Putnam, founders of Swat n Scoop, and winners of Prime Video's Buy It Now. This father-daughter entrepreneurial duo share the origins of their innovative product, which began with a scream— the kind every parent knows all too well. With a blend of humour and heart, they discuss the challenges of creating a humane bug-catching product. Scott describes the evolution of their idea from a father's determination to save the day without harming any being. From facing fears and finding unexpected solutions, to learning the power of saying, “no', their insights are invaluable for anyone considering starting their own business. You can watch Swat n Scoop's episode on the Buy it Now show titled: The Big Scream.Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video. In this episode you'll discover: (05:42): Scott's initial idea for the Swat N Scoop evolved from a basic bug-removal tool to a more refined product through extensive feedback and design iterations, showcasing the importance of a minimal viable product.(06:16): Scott conducted rigorous testing to ensure the product's durability, including extreme scenarios like freezing the tool and swatting it against sharp objects, emphasizing the need for quality assurance in product development.(08:44): Despite significant personal challenges, including a house fire and health issues, Scott remained focused on launching Swat N Scoop, demonstrating resilience and determination in the face of adversity.(13:10): Scott and Paige's engaging pitch on the "Buy It Now" show resulted in 51 green lights from the audience, validating their product and confirming its market potential, further supported by positive feedback from the panel.

A tragedy near-miss turned this healthcare professional into an entrepreneur. Her toddler was crying, but no sound was coming out: a clear sign of choking for any medical professional. Felicia Jackson's nightmare scenario inspired a product that is literally saving lives: CPR Wrap.Host, Andrea Marquez explores the backstory and journey of Felicia's invention, what led her to audition to Buy it Now, and how that experience (and the $20,000 cash prize) will take her business to new heights. While featured guest, Jamie Siminoff, founder and inventor of RING, points out key lessons you can takeaway from Felicia's pitch. You can watch CPR Wrap's episode on the Buy it Now show titled: The Panel Gets Dirty.Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video. In this episode, you'll discover: (00:21) How Prime Video's Buy It Now show works, the stakes involved, and just how difficult it is to convince an audience of 100 to buy your product. (04:02) The backstory of how Jamie Siminoff created the Ring app, and why shows like Buy it Now can be life-changing for entreprenuers. (06:41) What made CPR Wrap a unique and essential product. (08:03) The moment that changed Felicia's life trajectory. A moment that could have been fatal, and propelled her to dream up CPR Wrap. (11:07) How Felicia quit her job in secret to create CPR Wrap, a risk she says was inevitable. Thankfully her husband was fully committed at that point, too. (12:13) Why having a strong support system and community is paramount to being successful. (14:55) What stage Felicia's business was at when she decided to send in an audition to the Buy it Now show.(15:57) How Felicia spent countless hours practicing her show-day pitch. (18:43) Jamie's first impression and feedback of CPR Wrap.(23:00) Felicia's reaction to winning and how she's planning on spending her cash prize.(25:04) Jamie, Andrea, and Felicia share some actionable takeaways that you can use to take your business to the next level!

A behind-the-scenes look into Emmy Award-nominated entrepreneurship show "Start Up" on PBS. Gary Bredow and Jenny Feterovich explore the power of storytelling in entrepreneurship and the journey that led them to creating their successful show Start Up. Gary reflects on his childhood experiences that ignited his entrepreneurial spirit, while Jenny shares her journey from the Soviet Union to becoming a successful storyteller and business owner. They discuss how Start Up has evolved to inspire others to pursue their dreams, emphasizing resilience, community support, and the impact of authentic storytelling in connecting with audiences and driving meaningful change.In this episode you'll discover:(01:06) "Start Up" is a national PBS series that explores the mindset and experiences of American entrepreneurs, aiming to inspire and educate viewers.(01:19) The show's goal is to motivate dreamers to take action by showcasing relatable stories of diverse individuals pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams, both in America and globally.(1:53) Gary's entrepreneurial spark was ignited by witnessing a small business story unfold in his own home.(4:49) Jenny's entrepreneurial journey was sparked by a trip across the globe. (7:33) How Gary came up with the idea behind Start Up to solve a problem.(9:10) How Gary and Jenny started working together.(11:42) The ways in which the show evolved over time. (13:59) Why sharing personal stories is important and brings people closer together. (15:05) How Start Up pushed an aspiring entrepreneur to pursue his dreams. (16:20) Beyond helping entrepreneurs, Start Up also helps the featured businesses that make it on the show grow. (18:45) Motivational words from Jenny and Gary.

Are you an entrepreneur looking to turn your big idea into a successful business? Welcome to "This is Small Business: Behind the Buy", the official companion podcast to the Buy it Now show from Amazon Prime Video. Hosted by Andrea Marquez from This is Small Business, and featuring Jamie Siminoff, creator of Ring, this special season of TISB dives deep into the world of Buy it Now and the entrepreneurs who are building their businesses one pitch at a time. Every Thursday, we follow up with the winner of the previous night's episode of Buy It Now on Prime Video. You'll hear directly from the entrepreneurs who took the stage, revealing the backstories, challenges, and business strategies that turned their dreams into reality.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an avid fan of the Buy It Now show, "Behind the Buy" offers behind-the-scenes stories that will inspire you to take the next step in your own business journey. From the intense preparation to the thrill of winning, we explore every angle of what it takes to pitch, win, and build a thriving business. Discover how each Buy It Now winner plans to use their prize to scale their business and how you can apply these lessons to your own entrepreneurial path.Tune in and get inspired by the real stories behind the entrepreneurs and products featured on Buy It Now. You can find winning products on the Buy It Now Store. Follow TISB: Behind the Buy on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts and make sure to watch Buy It Now on Prime Video.

Can you still start a business if you've got no space or time to create, store, and pack your products at home? Just ask Marilyn Yang, the Co-Founder and CEO of Popadelics, who managed to do just that by starting her business remotely using third party logistics. She shares the ins and outs of outsourcing your operations as a startup, some of the early risks she had to take to make it work, and the benefits and challenges that might come your way.In this episode, you'll learn: (01:05) How Marilyn, a picky eater, created and introduced mushroom chips to the snacking world. (02:38) The steps it took for Marilyn and her husband to collaborate with a food start-up consulting firm. (03:25) What to do if you hit a snag with your outsourced co-packer. In this case, Marilyn had ingredients that took many months to arrive with nowhere to go, and a co-packer that was still on the fence – but she still managed to make it work. (6:42) Why Marilyn started her business using third party logistics – something that companies usually do as they scale.(7:30) How outsourcing your operations can help your business scale faster.(8:29) How having your operations spread out across the US can make your business eligible for more opportunities but makes applying to them more complicated. (10:11) How to balance running a remote business with the rest of your life.

How can the right ad strategy help your business stand out in a crowded market? Just ask Kyle Goguen and Garrett Gosselin, the co-founders of CRBN Pickleball, who transformed their passion for pickleball into a thriving brand by leveraging the power of Amazon Ads. Discover how the right advertising helped them showcase their unique brand identity and stay ahead of the competition. Whether you're new to advertising or looking to fine-tune your approach, you'll walk away with actionable lessons on maximizing your ad spend, using Amazon ads to increase brand awareness, and converting potential customers into loyal fans.Learn the importance of testing and refining your ad strategy, how to use data-driven insights to optimize campaigns, and why it's crucial to tell your brand's story through ads. In this episode, you'll discover:(1:08) How Garrett came up with CRBN pickleball(2:33) How to find the perfect business partner by combining complementary talents, just like Garrett and Kyle did to build CRBN Pickleball.(4:35) How to stand out in a competitive market by creating a strong brand identity. CRBN's "Southern California" vibe helped them break through the noise — how can your brand story do the same?(6:58) Why incorporating Amazon Ads into your marketing strategy could be the game-changer your business needs.(8:41) How CRBN used data to track the results of their ad campaigns and how you can implement that. (11:11) Why you should embrace experimentation and data analysis to continuously improve your Amazon Ads strategy and how those insights can shape other areas of your businessWatch full episodes of Rising Stars by Amazon Ads here: thisissmall.biz/crbn

Ever wondered how to get a cash injection for your business without giving up equity or taking on debt? Just ask Elise Lambkin, the founder of Lil Sippers, who landed a game-changing for-profit grant that helped propel her business forward. Elise breaks down the entire process of applying for the Amazon Business Small Business Grant, from finding the opportunity to making sure her brand story resonates with everyone. You'll also hear from Bria Arline, the Founder and CEO of IQ Ignited, a boutique grant writing firm, who reveals the secrets behind crafting a winning grant proposal. From finding the right grants to nailing your application, this episode gives you a crash course on what you need to know to secure your next grant and grow your business.Learn how to identify grants that align with your business goals, what makes a standout application, and what you should focus on to make your application shine.(2:18) How Elise Lambkin transformed a common parenting struggle into a thriving business(4:50) Where to find the best business grants and how to kickstart your search for funding opportunities to grow your business.(6:05) Elise's approach to winning the Amazon Business Small Business Grant.(6:57) Bria's lessons on how you could craft a winning grant application which includes understanding the funder's perspective, aligning your budget with your goals, and presenting a strong narrative that highlights your business's potential.(10:51) Why Elise's grant application stood out from the crowd with strong brand messaging and a clear vision for her business's growth.(12:17) Why taking your time and planning carefully can improve your chances of success in the grant writing process.(13:52) The benefits of getting rejections and how that could help fine-tune your approach for future success.(15:09) How Elise used her Amazon Business Small Business Grant to propel her business forward.

What if you could revolutionize your Amazon business with cutting-edge AI tools? Join us as we uncover the latest advancements from the Amazon Accelerate event in Seattle, with exclusive insights from Andrea Marquez of Amazon's This Is Small Business podcast. We dive into the game-changing world of AI-generated A+ content, as well as the exciting debut of Project Amelia, Amazon's generative AI that promises to transform seller capabilities.Our discussion takes you to the heart of Amazon's evolution in supporting sellers, highlighting the critical role of video content and improved analytics. Explore new tools designed to help brands create high-quality video content, alongside a detailed look at the updates that brands can benefit from. We also shine a light on Amazon's “Sellers in Your Community” initiative and hear the inspiring stories of Amazon entrepreneurs and their impact on communities.In the second part of this episode, let's discover how A+ content has evolved, with insights from Lauren Coury, Senior Product Manager at Amazon, and learn how to utilize your basic, shoppable A+ content, premium, brand story A+ content and AI integration to elevate your brand storytelling. Get ready to explore this wealth of knowledge and uncover new ways to make your Amazon presence more engaging and impactful than ever before.In this episode, you'll discover:00:00 – Amazon Accelerate Highlights and A+ Content Powered By Generative AI04:36 – Innovative Video Generation Revolutionizes Advertising06:29 – Enhancing Amazon Seller Experience and Analytics10:16 – Improved Amazon Seller Support Features12:43 – Entrepreneurial Stories and Amazon Product Ideas18:48 – Success Stories From The Amazon Accelerate Event21:56 – Brand Experience and A+ Content Creation25:19 – A+ Content and Brand Story 26:59 – Importance of A+ Content for Brands32:50 – Shoppable A+ Content and AI Benefits42:00 – Enhancing A+ Content With Graphics46:23 – Leveraging A+ Content and Generative AI

Want to build an award-winning business that not only thrives but also makes a real difference? Just ask Justin Forsett, former NFL player and CEO and co-founder of Hustle Clean, who turned his side hustle to a successful community-focused brand! In a live recording, we catch up with Justin, winner of the Amazon Force for Good Award. He reveals how his personal experiences – from humble beginnings to the highs and lows of professional sports – shaped his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to giving back. We also bring back some of his essential steps to building a successful business from “Justin tackles the top 3 steps to start a business” so you can have key insights into what makes purpose-driven brands successful. Learn the actionable steps you need to set up your business for success and how to integrate community impact into your core values even in the early stages of your entrepreneurial journey.In this episode, you'll discover:(1:35) How Justin transformed a personal experience into a thriving award-winning business.(2:58) Why community impact is important to Justin and how he prioritizes it. (4:37) How winning the Amazon Force for Good Award helped Hustle Clean overcome a major setback and continue their mission.(5:58) How to give back to your community in the early stages of your business.(7:30) The critical questions you need to ask yourself before launching your business.(8:41) Why establishing a strong legal foundation is essential for long-term success.(9:39) Key elements of a winning business plan, from market research to cash flow management.(10:32) The importance of building a supportive "huddle" of mentors and advisors.(12:09) Why defining your core values is crucial for navigating challenges and attracting the right team.(13:39) How to avoid spreading yourself too thin by focusing on your core customer.(14:30) Why embracing the entrepreneurial journey – with all its ups and downs – is key to finding fulfilment.

Ever wondered how being part of an entrepreneurial community can be the game-changer your business needs? Just ask Jen Earle, CEO of the National Association of Women Business Owners aka NAWBO, who believes that surrounding yourself with a good network can propel your business to the next level. To celebrate National Women's Small Business Month, we're taking a look back to see how the entrepreneur founders behind NAWBO transformed the landscape for women entrepreneurs and the impact that women-owned businesses have on today's economy. Jen also breaks down the four C's—Capital, Community, Confidence, and Congress—and explains why they're crucial for any business to thrive and how you can leverage them for your own success.Learn how to find your entrepreneurial community and how that can help you unlock funding opportunities, boost your confidence, and give you the support you need to build or grow a successful business. In this episode, you'll hear: (00:58) How NAWBO was founded.(02:06) The progress that's been made to support women-owned businesses and their impact on the US economy.(03:41) Jen's entrepreneurial journey and how she became the CEO of NAWBO.(5:49) A breakdown of the four essential pillars for business success which Jen calls the 4 C's: Capital, Community, Confidence, and Congress and how you can tap into them.(9:52) The importance of building a strong community for business success.

How do you transform an everyday problem into a product that people want to buy? Just ask Ray Philips, the CEO of SoapSox, who turned children's bath-time struggles into a product that resonated with so many people. Ray shares how he validated his idea and navigated the bumps throughout his entrepreneurial journey. And if you're still in the brainstorming stage, Morgan DeBaun, the CEO of Blavity, has you covered with her DRIP method, a decision-making framework designed to help you turn your ideas into actionable steps. Whether you're stuck in the ideation phase or just need a motivational pick-me-up to ride the wild rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, this episode will give you the confidence and clarity to turn your next big idea into reality.Learn how to leverage constructive criticism, stay balanced through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and push past the doubt to start or build your business. In this episode, you'll hear: (3:00) How Ray Philips turned a bath-time challenge into a business, and what made him launch his entrepreneurial journey.(5:12) Morgan DeBaun breaks down her powerful DRIP decision-making framework which can help you come up with ideas and turn them into real, validated business opportunities.(8:32) How to refine your product using feedback that matters—and more importantly, how to filter out the noise that could throw you off track.(10:48) Ray talks about funding his business and Morgan shares how to handle the inevitable highs and lows of entrepreneurship while keeping your vision alive.(14:26) Setbacks are part of the journey. Here's what to do when your first big obstacle hits—and how Ray and Morgan turned their first major setbacks into fuel for success.(17:31) How Ray pushed through tough times and scored a coveted spot on Shark Tank, and what it took to get there.(21:36) If you're battling self-doubt, stick around—this advice might be the boost you need to keep chasing your entrepreneurial dreams.

Want to know how your culture can give your business an edge? Just ask Mayra Luz Colon, the founder of Healthy Rican, who fused her Puerto Rican roots with her passion for healthy living to create a successful line of mom-approved seasonings. Mayra shares how she overcame imposter-syndrome, connected with her community, and pivoted from coaching to creating a product that resonated with so many people. You'll also hear from Ramiro Cavazos, CEO of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC), who'll dive into how Hispanic-owned businesses are shaping the future of entrepreneurship despite the challenges they face and how the USHCC is helping entrepreneurs get access to more capital, contracts and connections, and the tools and resources they need to grow their businesses.In this special Hispanic Heritage Month episode, you'll discover the importance of staying connected to your roots, how to build a strong community around your brand, and why empowering Hispanic-owned businesses benefits everyone.In this episode you'll hear:(02:06) How a health issue inspired Mayra to start her business(04:27) Why Mayra pivoted to a product based business(06:06) How to get customer feedback and build a supportive community(8:52) The growth and impact of Hispanic businesses and what makes them stand out(10:15) How the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) is helping Latino entrepreneurs overcome the challenges they face by focusing on the 3 C's: access to capital, building connections, and capacity building(14:50) Why supporting Hispanic-owned businesses benefits everyone(16:13) How resilience and being open to pivoting can help you build a successful business

Ever wondered how to make influencer marketing a game-changer for your small business? Just ask Brittany Hennessy, the bestselling author of "INFLUENCER: Building Your Personal Brand In The Age of Social Media." Brittany reveals how small businesses can leverage the power of influencers to enhance their brand, reach new audiences, and drive sales. Whether you're new to the influencer marketing scene or looking to refine your approach, Brittany's insights can help you navigate the ever-evolving world of influencer marketing.Discover strategies for working with influencers, from understanding the different types of influencer marketing to finding a good match for your brand and maximizing conversions.In this episode, you'll learn: (2:07) How starting a blog launched Brittany into the world of influencer marketing and led to her first brand trip.(4:05) Three powerful ways to boost your brand through influencer marketing: content creation, community engagement, and driving conversions.(6:25) How you can make influencer marketing work for your small business if you're on a tight budget.(7:49) Why picking the right influencer that aligns with your brand and goals is crucial for a successful campaign.(9:10) Practical tips on how to find the perfect influencer that could take your business to the next level.(10:53) How to reach out to influencers in a way that'll make them excited to collaborate with you and build valuable partnerships.

Want to make sure everyone knows about your product before it launches? Just ask Jay Clouse, the founder of Creator Science, who was able to generate six figure sales within the first few days of launching his product, Creatore HQ, all thanks to a carefully thought out pre-launch strategy. Jay shares his approach to building anticipation through consistent communication and engagement with his audience and why you should be planning your launch months before your product hits the market. Learn how to leverage your audience, what incentives to offer, and how to build an engaged audience that wants to buy your upcoming product.In this episode, you'll hear: (1:44) Why you should be talking about your product months before it launches.(3:24) How you could see who might be interested in your upcoming product and reach them(4:58) Jay breaks platforms down into two categories: Discovery platforms and relationship platforms. Learn the difference between both types and how to use them to build an engaged audience that will buy your product when it launches!(6:49) How consistently posting can build trust(8:29) Should you have a discount or a special incentive when you first launch? (9:24) How to keep the momentum after you launch

Wondering if your small business is ready to scale and how to smoothly transition into e-commerce? Just ask Val Fishbain, co-founder of Spread the Love Foods, who successfully took her business from the local farmer's market to the online world, all while staying true to her community roots. Val shares her experience selling at farmer's markets, what it took to make the leap to e-commerce, and the importance of giving back as her business grew. You'll also hear from Viridiana Ponce, a business consultant and food industry expert, who dives into how to leverage farmer's markets to enhance your business and the crucial steps for expanding beyond your local market while staying connected to your community.Learn the essential steps for scaling up like maintaining product quality, engaging with your community, and conducting market research to confidently take your business online.In this episode, you'll hear: (2:28) How Val's thoughtful wedding favor quickly turned into a full-blown business.(4:22) Thinking of starting a food business from home? Learn the preparation and licenses to make sure you do it right!(5:41) Val's first experience selling her products at a farmer's market.(9:34) The benefits that come with starting at a farmer's market.(10:44) How tracking sales at a farmer's market can help you get funding.(11:40) When should you consider expanding? Viridiana lists what you should be looking for to make sure you're ready for that next step. (15:02) Three essential strategies for a successful transition to e-commerce.(18:58) How giving back through your business can help your business grow and succeed.

Ever wondered how podcasting can help you grow your business? Just ask Hala Taha, the host of the Young and Profiting (YAP) podcast and the founder of YAP Media Network and YAP Media, who knows all the podcasting secrets that'll help you get big. Hala aka the Podcast Princess shares her own entrepreneurial journey and reveals the secrets behind her rapid growth, including how she harnessed LinkedIn for visibility and used creative strategies to break through the podcasting noise. Learn how to start your podcast, different monetization options, and why you should be advertising your business on podcasts. In this episode, you'll learn: (01:38) How Hala went from a corporate marketing role to founding a leading podcast network in just two years.(03:20) Hala's game-changing LinkedIn tactics that increased her podcast's visibility and engagement.(05:04) How Hala used her LinkedIn presence to grow on other platforms.(06:40) How Hala leveraged her podcast as a lead generation tool and built a successful social media agency from it.(08:48) Why podcasting can help you grow your business.(10:20) The three key components for a successful podcast: being searchable, designing an eye-catching cover, and utilizing platforms like TikTok and YouTube.(11:28) How to advertise your business on other podcasts.

Starting a business on a tight budget might sound tough, but it can be more beneficial than you might think. Just ask Alice Kim, founder of Elizabeth Mott, who turned a small budget into a flourishing business. Alice explains how she reduced costs by building a strong network, coming up with creative solutions, and the importance of buying enough time to build the momentum you need to get your business noticed. You'll also hear from Caroline Castrillon, founder of the Corporate Escape Artist, who'll share budget-friendly ways to understand your target audience and do market research.Learn how you can make your business thrive with limited funds and turn your small budget into a big success!In this episode you'll hear: (1:08) How Alice Kim launched Elizabeth Mott on a shoestring budget.(3:57) How Alice tapped into her network to cut costs and find creative solutions.(5:05) How to tackle research and development without breaking the bank.(6:47) Five budget-friendly tips for effective market research.(8:48) Why having a co-founder or a solid support system can make all the difference.(9:25) The benefits of being resourceful and scrappy.(12:10) Why focusing on the journey is just as important as reaching your end goal.(14:19) Why prioritizing your tasks can help you navigate the startup hustle.(15:38) How being scrappy can give you the time and space to get your business off the ground.

Want to learn how to turn your cultural heritage into a successful business idea? Just ask Conchita Pleasant, the founder and CEO of Nefertiti's Secrets, who looked at Ancient Egyptian remedies to create a hair care line. Conchita opens up about the struggles of battling breast cancer and how it led her to start her business. Learn how to conduct effective market research through direct feedback, the importance of pivoting, and how to turn obstacles into opportunities and empower yourself and others along the way.In this episode, you'll hear: (01:22) How Conchita's breast cancer diagnosis became a turning point in her entrepreneurial journey.(05:10) How Conchita utilized feedback to improve her formula.(07:15) How Conchita started to mass produce her product. (09:04) How Conchita's brand aims to uplift customers and the significance of history to her and her customers. (11:14) How you can replicate Conchita's success by drawing inspiration from your past.

Ready to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey or looking for a refresher on some essential tips? Join us as we dive into key insights from Season 4 that will help you start, build, and grow your business. To kick off Season 5, we're revisiting some of the most valuable advice from experts and successful small business owners like Amy Porterfield, Kat Norton, Jenna Kutcher, and more. Whether it's mastering your mindset, pinpointing your target audience, networking like a pro, or cracking the social media code, we've got you covered.In this episode, you'll learn how to:(02:05) Cultivate a Success-Oriented Mindset(03:02) Network Effectively for Business Growth(04:24) Define and Reach Your Target Audience(06:13) Build a Comprehensive Marketing Strategy(07:44) Leverage the Power of Email Lists(09:55) Implement Effective Social Media Strategies(13:36) Stay Persistent and Keep Moving Forward

Every entrepreneur needs a community - people who inspire us with their stories and share practical advice to help us make a decision or take the next step (or leap!). This is Small Business is that community. We hear from a diverse group of small business owners about how they found success, and the challenges they faced along the way.Not only will you feel inspired, you'll get tips you can apply to your own business right now. Whether you're trying to grow your business through social media, find a manufacturer to bring your idea to life, or figure out how to price your product - we got you!Hosted by Andrea Marquez, an aspiring small business owner, This is Small Business brings a diverse group of entrepreneurs and experts together to help you along your journey.New episodes are out every week. Follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen. You won't want to miss an episode!

Are you trying to figure out if it's the right time to launch your first product? Just ask Trinity Mouzon Wofford, co-founder and CEO of Golde, who's going to give us a look into all the behind-the-scenes work she put into their brand as she prepared to launch. She'll teach us how to prepare your MVP (minimum viable product), tips on how to have a successful launch, and how to know that your product is ready to be on the shelves. In this episode you'll hear:(05:56) - How distinctive packaging and vibrant colors helped Trinity's brand stand out in a crowded marketplace (07:58) - Copying big businesses' marketing tactics doesn't always work! Trinity explains how she found success by staying true to her vision(09:10) - How to leverage friends and family to gather early feedback on your product - before you launch(09:42) - Trinity explains how she knew she was ready to launch her business(11:06) - Andrea's key takeaways for launching your MVP

How do you nail the perfect price for your product? Just ask Mark Stiving, Chief Pricing Educator of Impact Pricing, who will share insights on pricing strategies. He'll explain how understanding your business strategy and customer decision-making process can help you value your products and how to find out how much your customer is willing to pay. In this episode you'll hear:(02:05) How figuring out your business strategy will influence your pricing.(03:00) How to find out how much your customer is willing to pay. (04:52) Should you start selling your products or services at a higher price point? (06:05) The benefits of a subscription model and how to build one.(07:50) How understanding the customer decision process can help you set prices.

Identifying your target market, without a plan, can be a struggle. Just ask Amber Murray, the founder of Fidget Stickers, who's going to break down the customer journey into 5 simple steps and show you how you can improve it so your customers keep coming back for more. Amber also gives advice on how to find customers for your products in places you wouldn't expect. After you've identified your ideal customer, Darian Kovacs, founder of Jelly Digital Marketing, spills the secrets on how to reach them. Darian tells us what social media platform might work best for you (spoiler: it's all about trial and error) and breaks down how you can use SEO to get the right people to notice your business. In this episode you'll hear:(02:50) Why Amber started Fidget Stickers.(06:05) Amber uses her business as a case study to explain the five phases of the customer journey: awareness, consideration, decision purchase, retention, and advocacy.(10:12) Questions you should ask yourself when you evaluate your customer journey. (12:54) How to identify your ideal customer BEFORE launching your product.(18:31) Tools that small business owners can use to learn more about their customers..(20:36) How to figure out what social platform you should be using to reach your ideal customer.(23:48) How to use SEO to be more discoverable.(25:59) Andrea's key takeaways for understanding your customer journey.

Wondering how to navigate common entrepreneurial pitfalls and ensure the success of your business? Just ask Christina Wallace, senior lecturer at Harvard Business School, who's going to tell us the top three mistakes (or lessons learned as Christina calls them) early stage entrepreneurs make and how you can avoid them.In this episode you'll hear:(01:18) Why you shouldn't do everything yourself. Christina recommends ways to overcome the entrepreneurial urge to do it all.(04:32) Why cash flow is important and the consequences of ignoring it.(06:11) How to manage your cash flow by putting liquidity in place before you need it, keeping an eye on any lumpy cash flow throughout the year, and being creative.(07:41) How to avoid scaling prematurely.

Trying to figure out how and when you should start scaling your side hustle? Just ask Max Ash, the young creator and founder of MAX'IS CREATIONS, who managed to start his business at just 8 years old (with the help of his mom, Jen) and grew it into a successful business. Max and Jen will share their own experiences with protecting their intellectual property, licensing, manufacturing, and evaluating the future of their business. You'll also hear from Verne Harnish, Founder and CEO of Scaling Up and the Entrepreneurs' Organization, who shares actionable steps you can take to scale your business.In this episode you'll hear:(02:15) How Max'is Creations started.(05:19) When Jen and Max realized that Max'is Creations could be more than a side hustle.(08:18) Jen talks about their experience with licensing – a way for you to partner with other companies without needing to do all the work yourself. (17:33) Verne emphasizes the importance of marketing and finding influencers to talk about your product or idea if you want to scale your business. (22:28) Having a routine can save you time.(23:48) Surround yourself with other like-minded entrepreneurs or mentors.(27:09) Verne tells us how being bold can land you opportunities.

Are you trying to figure out if a rebrand is worth the high price tag? Just ask actors turned entrepreneurs David McGranaghan & Julian Miller, co-founders of McMiller, a company that creates games designed to make you laugh, who went over-budget to rebrand their business. “Strong design [...] turns a four-star review into a five-star review, and I think that's definitely what we've learned, and it's money well spent [...] I would encourage people to put money into design," says David. In the season finale of This is Small Business, you'll hear how Julian and David's love story sparked the idea to start their business, the challenges and benefits of being married to your business partner, and how design can elevate your products. They'll also talk about the importance of taking it slow when you're first stepping into entrepreneurship.In this episode you'll hear:(01:23) How David and Julian met and started Mcmiller (06:11) Why David and Julian wanted to get into entrepreneurship despite being professional actors(09:55) The challenges and benefits of starting a business with your romantic partner(12:28) How you could use reviews to improve your products(15:12) How design can elevate your products(22:36) How success can hurt your business if you're not prepared for it(23:54) How to add sustainability into your business – Andrea mentions two This is Small Business episodes about sustainability. If you want to learn more, check out this season's bonus episode “How your business can have an impact” or an episode from season 4 called “How to Grow a Sustainable Business.”(25:58) Julian and David give us a look into their future goals and their upcoming game(26:55) Julian and David emphasize the importance of taking things slow when you're starting your business – it'll help you avoid mistakes and give you time to work on the best version of your product

Are you planning on selling your business but don't know where to start? Just ask Emmet Apolinario, President of the International Resource Group. Having transitioned into becoming a business broker after navigating the pitfalls of selling his own business, Emmet offers insights on how to evaluate your business to spare you from the same mistakes he made. “Selling a business is not like selling real estate. It's not going to sell tomorrow.” says Emmet, “[...] preparing and planning is very important.” Learn how you can increase your business value, who you may need on your team, and when you could be selling your business.In this episode you'll hear:(01:41) Why and when you could be selling your business(02:40) Challenges that might make your business difficult to sell(03:26) Who you might need on your team to sell your business(04:36) How to figure out what your business is worth(06:27) How to increase your business' value

Considering buying a business? Whether it's your first venture or you're trying to expand your business, it can be a game-changer. Just ask Brian Shields, an Acquisition Entrepreneur who knows what it takes to successfully buy a business. “Try to look at at least a hundred deals to help dial yourself in so you know what kind of risk you're willing to take, what kind of business plan you really feel comfortable with, what kind of industries you feel like make sense,” Brian says, “because once you get those under your belt, then you'll feel a little bit more sophisticated when the time really comes.”We'll dive into the essentials: from why you should consider buying a business to breaking down all the thorough due diligence and financing options so you can find the right business that works for you! In this episode you'll hear:(00:35) How Brian bought his first business(2:42) Why buying a business could be right for you(5:06) Research and analysis (aka due diligence) that needs to get done before you buy a business(6:39) Where you can find businesses to buy(8:01) Brian breaks down what the due diligence process looks like by using a coffee shop as an example(11:00) Three ways you can pay for the business you want to buy(13:50) Andrea and Brian go over three points you should focus on when you're trying to find a business to buy