Podcasts about Local Business

Everyone has some musical talent, says Sophia Hardesty. And she'd know. Sophia is the owner of Naptown Sings and Plays, a wonderful school for musicians from toddlers to teens. The catch? They specialize in modern music! What started out as a glee club in a shared space twelve years ago has blossomed into a full-fledged music school. If your child loves to sing, there is a group or individual class for them. If they love to strum on a guitar, Naptown Sings and Plays checks that box as well. With a cadre of professional musicians on staff, Naptown Sings and Plays positions kids for a lifetime of love for music! Plus a convenient location off West Street and plenty of free parking! Have a listen. LINKS: Naptown Sings and Plays (Website) Naptown Sings and Plays (Facebook) Naptown Sings and Plays (Instagram) Naptown Sings and Plays (YouTube)

Send us a textAI is reshaping how businesses manage their locations, from adoption challenges to AI Overviews in Google Search, to the renewed importance of citations and directories. Mike Blumenthal, Greg Sterling, and Ana Martinez from Uberall discuss AI's role in visibility, customer journeys, and local SEO strategy.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

This is a great look in the mirror type of an exercise. Some of us do business with the utmost passion, and often times our excitability can be mistaken as anger. Double check the way you talk and interact with associates, customers and executives. Are you projecting, genuine passion, or does your excitability project as anger?Support the show

As business owners, we're taught to excel. We're taught to lead well. We're given the books, the assessments, the coaches, and the tools to reach success. But then one day you stop and wonder—is this it? Is this really what success feels like? Because instead of fulfillment, you feel exhausted, disconnected, and maybe even a little lost.That's where today's guest comes in.Mel McSherry is an international business and life guide who uses Human Design to help inspired but overwhelmed entrepreneurs realign with their strengths, honor their lives, and become the architects of their own success. With her spiritual gifts and 15+ years of business-building experience, she blends Human Design with traditional business strategy to slash stress and help entrepreneurs create profit every day—mentally, emotionally, and financially.Get ready for a conversation that's going to challenge how you define success, and maybe, just maybe, help you feel more at home in your own life and business.A little bit about Mel: As an international business and life guide, Mel McSherry helps inspired but overwhelmedentrepreneurs honor their lives and become the architects of their own success. Mel uses theirspiritual gifts and their 15+ years of business-building experience to slash entrepreneurs' stressand bring their success to life! By merging Human Design with traditional business developmenttools, Mel coaches others on how to connect with what they want and implement their strengthsand strategies to be profitable every day - mentally, emotionally, and financially.LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/melmcsherry/Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/mel_mcsherryWebsite- https://www.melmcsherry.com Your GO-TO LINK for all things Brick and Mortar Visibility-: Level UP : Your Business, Your Life, Google Business Profile Workshop, Visibility Workshop, Hire Melissa, Newsletter, & Referral Partners.Love today's podcast?

Is your life a hot mess? Join the club! Is your home or office a hot mess? Join that club too! But, for that club, Tina Gann has the answer. Simply Organized is a professional organizer that was born out of Tina's own "aha" moment when, during an overseas move, she was forced to live out of a suitcase! Simply Organized doesn't just come and organize; they will actually learn how you live and organize according to your lifestyle, which makes perfect sense to me. They can work hand-in-hand with you, or you can give them free rein to get you less stressed and more productive. One service that made a lot of sense to me was unpacking. Say you are moving and your new home is a blank slate, why not let Tina and team come in and organize and unpack it for you? I'm planning an extra night in a hotel to let Simply Organized handle that for my next move! And, before we stopped recording, Tina left us with some solid DIY tips for getting our organizing act together! Have a listen.

If you want a contagious business quality to help grow your business, then try your hand at displaying genuine enthusiasm. Customers crave authenticity, transparency, and truth from suppliers, and they can sense one they run into a phony. So when they run into someone who is genuinely enthusiastic, it goes a long way to creating a healthier business relationship.Support the show

Customers want easy to understand product explanations. Brevity and clarity should be the horses pulling our product carts. Does this sound like your company? If not, we encourage you to find ways to become brief, clear, and understandable (BCU) to customers.Support the show

Ever feel like you're doing all the things but still stuck on a plateau? You're not broken—you're on the edge of a level up.In this episode, I'm talking about: ✨ Why confusion + frustration often show up right before breakthrough ✨ The #1 reason masterminds unlock massive growth (hint: it's not the coach) ✨ The power of vulnerability in business—and how it creates solutions ✨ Why Q4 is the time to set yourself up for your next-level yearIf you're ready to stop white-knuckling your business and finally surround yourself with people who “get it,” it's time to Level UP.Your GO-TO LINK for all things Brick and Mortar Visibility-: Level UP : Your Business, Your Life, Google Business Profile Workshop, Visibility Workshop, Hire Melissa, Newsletter, & Referral Partners.Love today's podcast?

Thankfully, mental health is no longer a quiet whisper. Taking care of your mental health is equally (if not more) important than your physical health. And thankfully we have a bunch of resources in the area for just that. Today we are speaking with Dr. Teresa Shank, the Director of Psychological Services at CPE Clinic in Annapolis and Lutherville. Dr. Shank specializes in treating anxiety disorders, pediatric and adult obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and body focused repetitive disorders (BFRBs) such as skin picking and hair pulling. We discussed many of the concerns she sees in today's youth and discussed ways to help them. CPE Clinic is uniquely situated due to their wide range of services, from coaching to counseling, to evaluations, to psychiatry, with specialists on staff for most disciplines. They are truly a practice where solutions are offered under one roof! And did you know that Octoebr 12-18 is International OCD Awareness Week? Have a listen. PS: Wondering what CPE stands for? I did, so I asked! LINKS: CPE Clinic (Website)

New managers, new leaders, new employers, and potential job opportunities all want to know what we have done in our careers. However, so many executives have been burned by people who say they did something, but never prove it, nor can they prove it. If you want to set yourself up for success, and get the best career opportunities, then start saving your business accomplishments in hard copy format. This way, they will never disappear, and you can always prove that you've done what you claim you have done. Start today!Support the show

Warhammer's local haunts face peril! ⚔️ Can community spirit & new strategies resurrect the hobby haven? FLGS future is on the line.

In this episode of The Small Business Podcast for Small Businesses, Farley explores the growing role of AI in business and why it's both a powerful tool and a potential pitfall.Farley breaks down:The biggest benefits of AI for small businesses, from saving time to streamlining workflowsWhy AI can't replace your experience, judgment, and personal touchThe risks of relying on AI's “people‑pleasing” answers that aren't always accurateHow to use AI as a support system, not a substitute, for decision‑makingPractical tips to integrate AI into your business without losing authenticityWhether you're curious about using AI for content, admin, or customer service, this episode will help you understand how to work smarter with AI while keeping your expertise front and centre.Support the show

This is all too common with face-to-face interactions. If you choose to consistently invade the personal space of a buyer, then be prepared for the possibility of losing that customer. Very few people like to feel crowded, or boxed into a corner. Above all, no one likes to smell the hot breath of someone standing too close to us while they are speaking!  Support the show

If your business isn't ranking on Google Maps, you might as well be invisible. In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I am joined by local SEO expert Josh Thompson, founder of Bright Beam SEO. They dive deep into practical strategies that local business owners can implement today to rank higher in local search results.Josh shares his powerful OCTBR SEO framework—Optimize, Content, Targeting, Backlinks, and Reviews—and explains why focusing on bottom-of-the-funnel searchers leads to real, revenue-generating results. From the future of AI in search to the simple tweaks you can make to your Google Business Profile, this episode is a masterclass for business owners who want to get found by customers ready to buy.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why Google Maps rankings matter more than everThe most common local SEO mistakes (and how to avoid them)The real deal on backlinks—and how to earn quality onesHow to future-proof your business against AI-driven searchJosh's go-to SEO strategies for immediate visibility gainsTimestamps: 00:00 Introduction: The Power of Google Search00:29 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing01:06 Understanding Local SEO with Josh Thompson02:19 The Importance of Google Maps for Small Businesses05:49 SEO Strategies: Optimize, Content, Target, Backlinks, Reviews09:38 Impact of AI on Local SEO14:02 Building Effective Backlinks19:26 Quick Wins for Improving Local SEO22:28 Common SEO Mistakes to Avoid26:59 Conclusion and Contact InformationDon't miss this chance to turn Google into your best lead generator. Tune in now and walk away with a game plan for better visibility, stronger reviews, and more ideal customers.Visit Joshua Thompson:Website: https://brightbeamseo.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshualinkedYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@brightbeamseoLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all know that knowing your numbers in business isn't just nice to have—it's essential. If you don't know your numbers, you can't optimize your business, pay yourself consistently, or make the kind of impact you want in your community.That's why I love bringing on experts who live and breathe accounting—bookkeepers, CFOs, and financial coaches—to remind us just how powerful it is to stay on top of this piece of our business.Today, I'm thrilled to introduce you to my guest, Megan Schwan. Megan is a mom, a business owner, and someone whose personal journey has fueled her entrepreneurial drive—something I deeply relate to as a single mama myself. Often, it's those challenging seasons of life that sharpen our grit and give us the tenacity to keep showing up, believing, and building.Megan is the CEO and founder of Sidekick Accounting Services, a national virtual accounting firm on a mission to change the statistic that 8 out of 10 small businesses fail. With over 20 years in the accounting industry and more than a decade educating thousands of business owners on accounting and taxes, Megan and her team are passionate about helping entrepreneurs build sustainable, successful businesses.Your GO-TO LINK for all things Brick and Mortar Visibility-: Level UP : Your Business, Your Life, Google Business Profile Workshop, Visibility Workshop, Hire Melissa, Newsletter, & Referral Partners.Love today's podcast?

Teens can be challenging. If only there was someone to coach you through those years that can be so tough for parents and teens alike! Well, now there is. Samantha Straub is the Founder of Teen Savvy Coaching and she has a thing or two to say! We sat down at Rise Up in Severna Park to discuss all the ways I screwed up when my kids were little how parents can make sure their teens thrive during that period and beyond! With a background in education, counseling, therapy, and parenting, Samantha is in a unique position to offer up some great advice including a free resource on her site! Have a teen? Or maybe an emerging teen? Need a tip or two? Have a listen. LINKS: Teen Savvy Coaching (Website) Teen Savvy Coaching (Facebook) Teen Savvy Coaching (Instagram) Teen Savvy Coaching (YouTube) Teen Savvy Coaching (Linked In)

When displeasing repetitive patterns continue without any change, aggravation grows, and customers disappear. Eventually the rubber band of customer grace breaks, and they are lost for good. It is essential for companies to determine their displeasing stress points. Promise keeping is an action that speaks to customers. Repetitive, and empty promise making becomes meaningless noise. We urge you to fix things before customers say enough is enough.Support the show

Many products require subcontractors to play a vital role producing what has been designed. If the final product quality is compromised, we have to alert these partners, and ask for them to modify their production in order to achieve success. Is there a disconnect in product production, or is the REAL disconnect hidden in the lack of clear expectations we gave our production partners?Support the show

LinkedIn isn't just for corporate types—it's a powerful visibility tool for local business owners too. But most of us are leaving easy wins on the table.In this episode, I'm sharing my top 3 LinkedIn fixes you can do today to boost your visibility, strengthen your SEO, and connect with the right people. We'll cover:How to make your profile banner instantly showcase who you are + what you doWhy engagement on LinkedIn is different from every other platform (and how to use it)The overlooked credibility builders that bring more referrals and leads your wayIf you've ever wondered if LinkedIn is worth your time, this episode is your quick audit guide.Want an expert to look at your LinkedIN profile.  Go to my girl Miranda VonFricken Meet me live at the Women's Business Bridge River Cruise (Sept 24).Your GO-TO LINK for all things Brick and Mortar Visibility-: Level UP : Your Business, Your Life, Google Business Profile Workshop, Visibility Workshop, Hire Melissa, Newsletter, & Referral Partners.Love today's podcast?

About the Show:"I want to see the guys that help build a company and the guys that are out there in the field...have something to fall back and be proud of, who they are. They're the backbone of this country." – Stephen Van Der MerweIn this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Stephen Van Der Merwe, founder of iHawl, an innovative excavation and civil construction business based in Northwest Arkansas. Stephen shares his remarkable journey from farming in South Africa to building a thriving company in Prairie Grove, Arkansas. With a blend of "old-school grit" and modern technology, iHawl is committed to delivering on promises, meeting deadlines, and shaping the land for the next generation.Listeners will hear how Stephen's background in farming, sports, and a strong faith shaped his work ethic and business philosophy. He details how iHawl started as a small side business with a trailer, hauling debris, and grew into a leading construction company by focusing on reliability, teamwork, and groundbreaking technology. Stephen also talks about the importance of “blue collar rising” and how iHawl supports team culture, community engagement, and career paths for both young and experienced workers in the trades.Key Takeaways:Grit and Innovation: Hard work, patience, and faith built the foundation for iHawl's growth and success in excavation and construction.Embracing Technology: Using advanced tools and machines, like GPS-enabled equipment, helps iHawl save time, avoid mistakes, and finish projects on schedule.Community Commitment: iHawl sponsors local sports teams and invests in education and outreach to encourage new generations to join the trades.Blue Collar Rising: Stephen believes blue collar work deserves respect, recognition, and strong support for workers and their families.Opportunity for All: Whether you're a young person considering the trades or someone looking for a career change later in life, there are rewarding jobs in construction.All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.Important Links and Mentions on the Show*Website: iHawl.comiHawl Careers and Contact: Visit the website for job openings and contact information.Phone: 479-900-4119Email: Office@ihawl.comAddress: 140 Southwinds Rd, Ste 137, Farmington, AR 72730FindItNWA.com NWA's Hyperlocal Business DirectoryThis episode is sponsored by*iHawl Land Specialist - Excavation and Civil Construction in Northwest ArkansasSignature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!" FindItNWA.com *Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:Grab our Newsletter Email Us at

Join Michael as he interviews Dr. Beau Beard, one of the founders of The Farm! The Farm, which stands for “Functional Athletic Rehabilitation & Movement,” is a facility located in the Birmingham/Chelsea, Alabama area that specializes in chiropractic care, rehabilitation, performance training, and functional medicine! Podcast Transcript: Michael Wienecke Hey and welcome to the Peskies […] The post The Farm Local Business Spotlight appeared first on Peskies Pest Control.

 In 2019, Gerardo Martinez had a crazy idea to buy a vacant lot in Edgewater that was overgrown and had become a town dumping spot and turn it into a sustainable farm. Here we are five years later and Wild Kid Acres is an international model for sustainability and Gerardo now sits as the Goodwill Ambassador for Regenerative Agriculture at the United Nations! To say this little farm has come a long way is a gross underestimate. We spoke with Gerardo back in 2022 and wanted to catch up and see what was new. Farm visits continue, but has expanded to include a huge educational element. Gone is the cinder block shed, replaced with a 10,000 SF barn built by a small Army (err I mean Navy) of volunteers. The present is busy, and the future looks bright as Gerardo takes his ideas around thye globe to demonstrate how farms will sustain us in so many ways--with nourishment to community! And to celebrate their success, they are hosting a 5-YEar Anniversary Celebration on October 4th! Have a listen. LINKS: Wild Kid Acres (Website) Wild Kid Acres (Instagram) Wild Kid Acres (Facebook)

Lost customers are the death of most young businesses. Finding out why customers are defecting is essential to long-term sustainability. How do you find out? Talk to your customers, and spend time thinking about things as if you were the customer. Sweeping the reason or reasons under the rug will surely send the business to the boneyard. As business owners, we MUST figure this out, and then we must change to customer-pleasing products and services.Support the show

Marissa Farrell, a high school English teacher in the Parkway School District, discusses her busy life as a mother of two daughters. She also runs a mentorship program for young girls called the Sister Project. Marissa and her husband, Luke, started a local business called Bucket List, which has grown to 230,000 followers on Instagram. They enjoy affordable family activities, such as the Magic House Toddler Time and the Missouri History Museum. Marissa values the importance of parental involvement in children's education and addresses the challenges of balancing work and family life as a teacher.Marissa Farrell, high school English teacher in the Parkway School District, co-founder of STL Bucket List, and mom of 2 girls under 2, Mila (20 months) and Vada (6 months). Just another mom taking on the balancing act of motherhood and a career. We hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! To learn more about Moms of the Lou you can go to stlouismom.com or follow us on Instagram and Facebook. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast and Spotify. And don't forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! This episode was produced by the St. Louis Mom. It was recorded and edited by STL Bucketlist Studios in St. Louis, Missouri. 

The Building Local Business podcast, hosted by Carl Ulinski, has officially launched, bringing inspiring stories from local entrepreneurs to the airwaves. In its debut episode, Ulinski sits down with Dave Warner, executive director of The Creative Outpost, for a captivating conversation about building a media empire in the heart of the Mohawk Valley.

Is your Instagram profile really working for you—or is it just…there?This week, I'm breaking down the five Instagram fixes every brick-and-mortar business owner needs to boost visibility, attract local clients, and actually get results from social media.You'll learn:✅ The who, what, where, and how of a powerful bio ✅ The SEO trick most business owners skip in their Instagram profiles ✅ Why niching your services isn't limiting—it's magnetic ✅ How to make it brain-dead simple for people to work with you ✅ Why hashtags are a mustIf you've been posting but not seeing results, this episode will show you how to optimize what you already have—without creating more work. Meet me live at the Women's Business Bridge River Cruise (Sept 24).Your GO-TO LINK for all things Brick and Mortar Visibility-: Level UP : Your Business, Your Life, Google Business Profile Workshop, Visibility Workshop, Hire Melissa, Newsletter, & Referral Partners.Love today's podcast?

“SPINIPULATORS” combine spinning plus manipulating to wreak internal, and external havoc. These truth-distorters vomit false narratives designed to elevate themselves at the expense of other teammates. We can knock them off their perch with facts. Document timelines, conversations, and emails. If you persistently follow these three suggestions, you will eventually defeat most of these crafty narcissists.Support the show

In this episode, we sit down with Designs By Jenn — and no, it's not a graphic design firm. Since 2006, Jenn Moselyn and her team have been bringing face painting, color, and creativity to events across Maryland, DC, and Virginia. From birthday parties and community festivals to corporate gatherings, their artistry transforms ordinary celebrations into unforgettable experiences. We talk about how the business began, what keeps it thriving nearly two decades later, and why a little paint and imagination can create lasting memories. Have a listen! LINKS: Designs By Jenn (Website) Designs By Jenn (Facebook) Designs By Jenn (Instagram)

Most customers are smarter than we give them credit for. Perpetual excuse- making vendors put themselves at high risk for a short business life. Many buyers can easily detect vendor BS, and the quick penalty is a lost customer. Sadly, often times these unhappy buyers will share their frustrations with many other people. If you are a vendor/supplier, maybe it's time to focus on results? Maybe it's time to stop making excuses?Support the show

Are you leaving visibility (and clients!) on the table with your Facebook page?Spoiler: you probably are—and the good news is, it's an easy fix.In this week's episode, I'm breaking down five quick places studio owners miss the mark on Facebook—and how to fix them in less than 10 minutes each. These aren't complicated hacks or paid ads. They're simple, SEO-friendly, visibility-boosting tweaks that make it easier for your ideal clients to find you, trust you, and book with you.You'll learn: ✅ Why your “About” section might be costing you leads ✅ The #1 post that should always be pinned at the top ✅ How your cover photo can do more of the heavy lifting ✅ Why local groups are your visibility goldmine ✅ And the overlooked power of creating Facebook eventsTake 15 minutes, run this mini-audit, and watch your visibility start to work harder for you.

Calculating all the variables that go into a establishing a standard cost is anarduous process. Like it or not, this is where we have to put on our lab coats, and become a doctor of details. Bypassing certain cost components can be deadly to a small company. Are you being a doctor of details?Support the show

From dolphins to dogs, today's guest has just about seen it all. We're talking with Kim Greco, the owner of Paws and Possibilities right here in Annapolis. Kim's background is as unique as it is impressive—she was once the lead dolphin trainer at the National Aquarium before turning her expertise toward man's best friend. Paws and Possibilities offers a full range of dog training options to fit any lifestyle—whether it's one-on-one sessions, group classes, virtual programs, or even self-guided training. And for those special pups with a little extra love to give, Kim can help them become certified therapy dogs, ready to share their unconditional joy with others. From solving everyday obedience challenges to creating meaningful connections that extend into the community, Paws and Possibilities is more than just dog training—it's about building better relationships between people and their pets. Have a listen! LINKS: Paws and Possibilities (Website) Paws and Possibilities (Facebook) Paws and Possibilities (Instagram) Paws and Possibilities (YouTube) Paws and Possibilities (X) Paws and Possibilities (Linked In)

Cheering local businesses in Ocala. Wes Strickland, Radiant Credit Union VP of marketing joins the show, as the financial institution's expansion into Ocala celebrates the 1-year anniversary. And Renee Genther, founder and owner of Funky Unicorn, on developing a unique new business serving horse owners. Promoting and supporting area businesses with the Ocala-Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership, on the Bob Rose Show with Greg Cassidy

KEVO discusses the vulgar, egotistical & vile comments of Mr. Shane Smiley towards a member of his staff as well as the rest of his staff that we know have been talked down to just like this young lady was. KEVO also discusses Shane's response to leaked audio of his vile/vulgar rant. KEVO discusses Shane's potential racism as seen in reviews as well as leaked text messages that have him degrading service dogs.....WOW! It's not hard: Do NOT talk down to or abuse woman (physically, mentally or verbally), do NOT be a prejudice piece of crap & do NOT be mean in anyway to service dogs. If you act out Any 1 of, let alone all 3, of these you are not in a position to be in our political arena. I do personally invite him on to set the record straight & tell his side of the story. I will cook the steak if he will have the tough conversation. The ball is in his court.......ALL THAT ON TODAYS EPISODE OF: Unwavering - Toxic Masculinity from the Dude's Den sponsored by @rhtcinc.com

Learn how Nicola Hamilton raised $120,000 for Issues Magazine Shop using alternative funding, dual business plans, and intuition over spreadsheets. Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

Do you charge customers for warranty, shipping and handling? If so, are you sure that's the way you wanna do things? When customers pay for mistakes they didn't make, they usually disappear into thin air. Think about it! Do you really want to partake in this upside down behavior?Support the show

Are you driving away your profits, literally?

What's actually working right now on social media for local, service-based businesses?After testing new strategies with my clients this month, I saw exceptional growth across the board — and I'm breaking it all down for you in this episode.Inside, I share: ✨ The #1 principle that makes every strategy work better ✨ How to roll out “what's new” in your business to get people's attention ✨ Why carousel posts are outperforming everything else right now (and how to create one that gets engagement) ✨ How adding humor (even if it's not “your thing”) can skyrocket connection and reachSocial media doesn't have to feel like a guessing game. These are the tactics that are working now — and you can start applying them today.And if you're ready for accountability and support to make this stick? Check out LEVEL UP—my mastermind for studio owners who want consistent action, real results, and more time back.Your GO-TO LINK for all things Brick and Mortar Visibility-: Level UP : Your Business, Your Life, Google Business Profile Workshop, Visibility Workshop, Hire Melissa, Newsletter, & Referral Partners.Love today's podcast?

Loans, data, and grants! Oh my! While this is not The Wizard of Oz, some may say that the AAEDC does the work of wizards! Today, we sit down with Amy Gowan, the President and CEO of this quasi-public entity whose sole purpose is to help businesses succeed in Anne Arundel County! We discuss how diverse the county is and how the EDC is involved, from supporting our farmers in South County to a new Town Center in Glen Burnie. We discuss the programs for minority businesses (IVP) and the depth of knowledge and connections within the team. If you are a business just starting out or one looking to expand, they should be your first call. Heck, if none of the above, they are THE resource for businesses in Anne Arundel County! Have a listen! LINKS:AAEDC (Website)AAEDC (Facebook)AAEDC (X)AAEDC (YouTube)AAEDC (Instagram)

Employee buy-in can be much deeper, and more productive if management leads by example. The days of executives telling employees to do one thing, and then they do another are long gone. Managers who grab an order and row with the team become an inspiration to the entire organization. Is it time to row with the team at your company?Support the show

What if the thing you see as your biggest weakness is actually your greatest asset?This week, I'm sharing one of the best lessons I ever got from a dance professor: “If you can't fix it, feature it.” At the time, it was about choreography—but over the years, I've realized it applies to business too.From my gray hair patch (that my stylist insists I feature!) to running a home studio out of my basement in the early days, to building six-week sessions that turned into our most profitable program—what started as “flaws” or “detriments” became the exact reasons people trusted and chose my business.Inside this episode, you'll hear:

They say that most businesses don't make it five years! So what about one that makes it SEVENTY FIVE years?? Today, we are talking about Ann's Dari-Creme up in Glen Burnie outside of the Marley Station Mall! There's a lot to unpack here, from a start in Coney Island to the change of ownership in 1976, when Howard and Thea Pinsky, along with their partner Joe, purchased the iconic "hot dog stand" based on the number of rolls purchased from a local bread distributor! Sadly, Howard passed away in 2021, but Joe and Howard's family are carrying on the tradition. Today, Joe joins us with Amy, Stacy, MaryLou, and longtime manager Cindy to talk about 75 years of goodness along Ritchie Highway. If there ever was a shining example of not messing with a good thing, Ann's is it. Spoiler, we tried to wrest a few secrets from the team, but failed miserably--so the chili, brand of dogs, and bread will remain a secret! On August 31st, they will kick off their 75th Anniversary all day with giveaways, t-shirts, ice cream, plenty of specials, and a surprise or two. Be sure to stop by and grab a double dog (as I did), or if you dare, a triple dog! What a great group and what a great, true legacy business in Anne Arundel County! Have a listen! LINKS: Ann's Dari-Creme (Facebook)

Boost productivity and visibility with AI tools tailored for local SEO, marketing, and automation. The future of marketing is AI-powered, make sure you're business doesn't get left behind. In this episode of SEO Tactics, we unpack a lineup of powerful AI tools designed to elevate your business. From automated review management to AI-powered ad optimization, learn how these platforms can save you time, improve customer engagement, and help you dominate local search. Whether you're a small business or a marketing agency, this episode delivers actionable insights and recommendations from hands-on experience with tools like BirdEye, MailChimp, BrightLocal, Jasper, and more. What You'll Learn  How AI tools can streamline local SEO, review responses, email marketing, and content creation The pros, cons, and real-world use cases of platforms like BirdEye, Podium, Jasper, ChatFuel, BrightLocal, and more Insider tips on using AI-driven chatbots, voice search optimization, and ad automation to boost customer conversion Get a free SEO audit at LocalSEOTactics.com and reach out to chat about the best-fit tools for your goals.    

Entrepreneurship isn't always glamorous, but it can be deeply fulfilling and rewarding. Jason Feller, owner of Crystal Clean Canz, joins us to discuss his journey from managing country clubs to growing a business centered on cleanliness and customer service. We talk about the surprises he encountered as a first-time business owner, how he diversified his services, refined his service area, and works to grow his recurring revenue. Jason also shares why he values his role as chair of the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce. Jason's story is a candid look at the risks, rewards, and realities of building a small business.OUR PARTNERSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceLINKSCrystal Clean CanzWebsite: crystalcleancanz.comInstagram: instagram.com/crystalcleancanzFacebook: facebook.com/CrystalCleanCanzEmail: info@crystalcleancanz.comAdditional LinksSouthern Chester County Chamber of CommerceNew London ConsultingThis Sober VetUnivestLBDesignRelated EpisodesNetworking, Local Community, and Business Connections with Tony PoluchTranscriptA full transcript will be posted on our website as soon as it is available.

Do you advocate for customers? How often? To what degree? Do customers bear witness to instances where you deliver on advocating for them, or do they just hear empty words? We all have inter-company directives, goals, and objectives, but the employees don't chip in and pay invoices for the goods and services we provide to customers. So, why don't we put the customer needs above ours? Afterall, customers pay the invoices that fuel our paychecks! Sometimes priorities can be really simple!Support the show

In the re-release of this MVP (Most Valuable Podcast) episode, I'm teaching a tool called "The Minimum Baseline" to help you create more consistency in your local marketing and business.This coaching tool is a game changer. The idea behind The Minimum Baseline is it's the smallest, doable amount of anything you can commit to.Your brain will tell you it's not enough. It will tell you that one post or 10 minutes a day isn't getting you anywhere.But you can't listen to it.It's changing the trajectory of where you end up over 3 months, 6 months... 1 year.It's changing who you're being.You're being someone who honors their word. You're being someone who is consistent.You're being that local go-to person.Tune into Episode 130 to learn:How to start with small, doable commitments to build consistencyHow to become the person who follows through no matter what vs needing instant gratification (likes, comments) in order to show up consistentlyPlus, practical tips for time management to fit something new into your dayMentioned in this episode:Work with me inside The Localpreneur AcademyClick here to book a free consult call with LeslieFollow me on Instagram @‌lesliepresnallDownload my Free Guide: How To Grow Your Local Instagram FollowingIf you're ready to grow your local business and bring in a steady stream of clients, you need to check out The Localpreneur Academy. Click here to join me inside.Rate, Review & Follow:“I LOVE listening to the episodes, especially since they're focused on local businesses and it's not just generic marketing advice.” If you love the show too, please leave a rating and review. This helps me reach more people just like you who want to reach more local people and create a business they love.

This week, I'm sharing the story of how I finally got my dream property—a year in the making, and really, years in the waiting.For so long I was hustling, grinding, stressing, and “doing all the things,” but not seeing the results I wanted. Sound familiar?Everything shifted when I stopped trying to do business like everyone else and started living in alignment with who I am. I got clear on what I wanted (yes, I literally drew it out), held onto the belief that it would happen, and released the pressure of how it would come together. That clarity—and willingness to walk away when things didn't fit—opened doors I couldn't have planned for.In this episode, I'll share:The miracles and setbacks that led me hereWhy unwavering belief (without attaching to the “how”) is powerfulHow living authentically creates alignment—and alignment attracts opportunitiesA simple reflection to check if what you're doing now is truly moving you where you want to beBy the end, you'll be inspired to pause, reflect, and get clear: Are you living in alignment with who you really are, or chasing someone else's version of success?Your GO-TO LINK for all things Brick and Mortar Visibility-: Level UP : Your Business, Your Life, Google Business Profile Workshop, Visibility Workshop, Hire Melissa, Newsletter, & Referral Partners.Love today's podcast?

What goes into a brand or a logo? A heck of a lot more than one might think. With Jennifer Cochran Designs, it all starts with a 4-page questionnaire! You see, before the ink hits the paper (and yes, that is how it starts with Jennifer), Jennifer Cochran Designs needs to know about you, your vision, your business (or side hustle), your competition, and a whole lot more, and that makes PERFECT sense! Today, Jennifer sits down with us to talk about her background and experience, and how she brings ideas to life for Anne Arundel County businesses and non-profits. Some of her challenging work and what drives the creative brain behind Jennifer Cochran Designs! Have a listen! LINKS: Jennifer Cochran Designs (Website)

AI is everywhere—and your clients can tell when you're using it. While that's not necessarily bad, it has created a shift: people are more skeptical, less trusting, and craving something real.This week, I'm talking about what that means for your marketing as a brick-and-mortar business owner—and why this is actually a massive opportunity.We'll cover:Why authenticity is your biggest marketing advantage right nowHow to meet your clients exactly where they are (instead of just telling them what you offer)Ways to make your marketing feel human without losing professionalismHow showing up less curated can create more connection—and more salesIf you've been feeling like your marketing isn't landing, this might be the shift you need.

It may have been the furthest thing from what he was thinking when our special guest today, John Caprani, ventured into copywriting. But he's come up with a fascinating specialty that's worth paying attention to, and that's Local Celebrity Advertising. See, we all know what so-called “omnipresence” is online. That's when your prospects see you everywhere, and so they become familiar with you, in the same way they become familiar with a celebrity. John was working as a construction project manager in 2016 when his boss asked him to start selling projects, too. It was a logical transition to starting his own copywriting business a couple years later. He ran the gamut of direct response copywriting. Niches like health, wealth, relationships. Fairly familiar stuff. But last year he found something he really liked–promoting US home service businesses become really well known in their physical, local communities with a method he calls Local Celebrity Advertising. He's joining us today to tell us all about it. Here's what we asked him: 1. How did you get into the idea of the Local Business Celebrity Program? 2. Could you walk us through a case study or two? Not just the numbers but also comments people have made to you; comments customers or people in the community have made to them; any funny or unexpected things that have happened that you'd enjoy sharing. 3. Did you try anything else before for local marketing that didn't work? Why do you think it didn't work? 4. What are the big mistakes you see other people making in promoting local service businesses? 5. What are some insider tips for video marketing you could share with our listeners? 6. What are some direct marketing ideas that you think more people should embrace and implement? 7. Tell us more about your program; who it's for and who it's not for; how it works; and how people can contact you if they're interested. If you're interested in his Local Celebrity Advertising service on Facebook & Instagram for 90 days, he'll send you the equipment you need so you can record professional videos with him right from your office computer. You can reach John by sending him a friend request on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jdcapraniDownload.