Podcasts about Small business

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou, the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI, breaks down one of the most powerful—and most misunderstood—PR tools available to small business founders: press releases. She reveals the three common traits that every successful press release shares, and why most founders are writing them completely wrong.Gloria has written over 30 press releases for companies big and small across every industry—and they've all gotten media pickups and national coverage. In this episode, she shares the exact formula she uses to make press releases concise, compelling, and impossible to ignore, even if you're competing in a saturated market.The 3 Things All Winning Press Releases Have in Common1. They're Specific Around One Time-Sensitive Event

SummaryIn this episode of the Fuel Podcast, host Caleb Talley sits down with Sanjay Ahuja, founder of Believ.ai, to discuss his inspiring entrepreneurial journey. Sanjay shares how, after twenty-seven years of thriving in global corporate roles across India, Dubai, and the U.S., he embraced his entrepreneurial spirit to address a crucial gap in AI: clean data.Believ.ai emerged from Sanjay's firsthand experience with the complexities of onboarding merchants efficiently and securely. The platform's focus is on streamlining onboarding for marketplaces, payments, and logistics companies, tackling the dual challenge of speed and fraud prevention. Additionally, Sanjay explains his experience with Fuel Accelerator, describing Bentonville's unique, supportive environment for tech founders, and praising the city's vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.For those looking to launch their own ventures, Sanjay offers sage advice: “Be an entrepreneur at an early stage of life. You'll fail, and that's fine—you'll learn and move on to build something bigger and better.” This episode is a must-listen for founders seeking inspiration, practical insights, and a sense of belonging in the startup community!Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(04:22) Believ: An AI-Powered Onboarding Platform(07:07) Sanjay's Fuel and Bentonville Experience(12:20) Insights into the Fuel Accelerator(16:09) Adopting an Entrepreneurial Mindset(17:34) Closing ThoughtsLinksCaleb TalleyFuel AcceleratorFuel Accelerator YouTubeSanjay AhujaBeliev.ai

In this episode, I'm sharing my favorite things - the tools, apps, tech, resources, and just-for-fun goodies that are making a big difference in my business and life right now. Whether you're a real estate pro, entrepreneur, or just looking for new inspiration, this is my personal list of what I truly love and use.I'll walk you through exactly why I love each one, how I use them day-to-day, and where you can check them out for yourself. It's a mix of practical and personal - and a fun way to wrap up the year with purpose, intention, and a little joy. You can watch the full show here on YouTube.

Using AI and automation isn't just a trend—it's the secret to scaling your business without burning out. In this episode of Walk In Victory, host NaRon Tillman sits down with Dr. Bradford Carlton, business coach and automation expert, to reveal the blueprint for future-proofing your operations.Discover the critical difference between simple automation and true AI agents, and learn how to build an "Executive Assistant Suite" that runs your business for you. Whether you're a solopreneur or running a growing team, this conversation breaks down exactly how to reduce operational costs and reclaim your time. 

In this episode of the I Fired My Boss podcast, host Dan Claps sits down with Mike Hagan, the very first franchise owner in the Voda Restoration system and the original believer in the brand. Mike shares his journey from a successful but unfulfilling career in financial sales to becoming a business owner and top performer in the Voda network. He dives into the due diligence process he went through before committing to the brand, what attracted him to Voda over other restoration franchises, and how the hands-on support from Dan and the HQ team gave him the confidence to take the leap. Mike also reflects on the early days of running his franchise while still holding a W-2 job and the importance of surrounding yourself with driven people who share a common mission.The conversation touches on everything from the growth of the Voda system—now over 100 franchisees strong—to Mike's plans for scaling his business into reconstruction and hiring a business development manager. He talks candidly about the highs and challenges of ownership, including the freedom he never imagined and the admin work that caught him off guard. Mike also shares insights on what sets Voda apart in the restoration industry, the power of networking, and how having a husband-and-wife team (with his wife Trish managing the cleaning side) gives them a strategic advantage. Whether you're considering franchise ownership or already on the path, this episode is packed with practical takeaways and real-world perspective from someone who's walked the road and fired his boss for good.

As the year comes to a close, I often reach out to John Arensmeyer, who is founder and CEO of Small Business Majority, to get his take on the state of small businesses in America. The picture John paints this year, based on his own observations as well as a recent survey, is not pretty. He points to a host of issues -- health insurance, tariffs, immigration, cuts to federal programs -- every one of which can represent an existential threat to a business. John does note, however, that through it all, owners appear to remain surprisingly optimistic heading into 2026—even if that optimism speaks more to the resilience of business owners than it does to the economic outlook.

From Swiss banker to international bestselling author, Nathalie Botros shares how choosing self-love over external success became the catalyst for a life and business rooted in joy, authenticity, and impact.In this episode, I sit down with Nathalie Botros, known globally as The Bon Vivant Girl and a powerful Happiness Activator. Nathalie is an author, psychotherapist, mindset architect, and the Executive Editor of Ageless Living Magazine, where she curates stories that celebrate unapologetic living at every age. Our conversation begins with the magic of being together in person and the energy of women truly supporting women, not transactionally, but from a genuine place of “how can I help you.”Nathalie opens up about the pivotal moments that reshaped her life, from leaving a prestigious banking career in Switzerland to searching for fulfillment through fashion, success, and external validation. Despite checking all the “achievement” boxes, she found herself deeply unhappy. That awakening led her inward, where she began dismantling perfectionism, diet culture, and self-criticism, and replacing them with radical self-love. One simple mirror practice changed everything, transforming not only how she saw herself but how the world responded to her.We dive into the science of happiness, the myths women are conditioned to believe, and why self-love is the foundation of confident leadership, healthy relationships, and sustainable success. Nathalie also shares powerful insights for women entrepreneurs: why authenticity fuels growth, how setting boundaries protects your business, and why saying no, especially to unpaid labor, is an act of leadership, not selfishness.This episode is a reminder that true success means building a life where joy, impact, and alignment coexist. Nathalie's story will inspire you to stop chasing validation and start leading from a place of love, clarity, and self-worth. Tune in and let this conversation reset how you live, love, and lead.Chapters

We spotlight a unique small business, Horror Vibes Coffee! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melissa Franks, Founder of On Call COO, which helps women-led businesses scale with stronger operations, smarter strategy, and sustainable growth joins Enterprise Radio. Listen … Read more The post How Small Businesses Can Plan, Scale, and Avoid Burnout appeared first on Top Entrepreneurs Podcast | Enterprise Podcast Network.

Leah Long joins Don Dubuc to talk about small business shopping as we're days away from Christmas.

In this episode, Hailey shares all the holiday cheer happening across Wisconsin counties! From north to south, communities are lighting up with festive downtown celebrations and unique shopping experiences you won't want to miss. Gather your family and friends, and make this season one to remember with a little holiday magic in every corner of the state!The Bobber is brought to you by Something Special from Wisconsin: https://www.somethingspecialwi.com/Read the blog here: https://discoverwisconsin.com/holiday-cheer-in-wisconsin-counties-downtown-celebrations-shopping-experiences/Oneida County: https://www.wicounties.org/counties/oneida-county/; Lights of the Northwoods: https://lightsofthenorthwoods.org/; Rhinelander: https://www.rhinelanderwi.us/; Rock County: https://www.wicounties.org/counties/rock-county/; Rotary Botanical Gardens Holiday Light Show: https://www.rotarybotanicalgardens.org/holiday-light-show; Janesville: https://www.janesvillewi.gov/; Ozaukee County: https://www.wicounties.org/counties/ozaukee-county/; The Shops of Cedar Creek Settlement: https://www.cedarcreeksettlement.com/; Cedarburg: https://www.cityofcedarburg.wi.gov/; Waukesha County: https://www.wicounties.org/counties/waukesha-county/; German Christmas Market: https://germanchristmasmarket.org/The Bobber: https://discoverwisconsin.com/the-bobber-blog/The Cabin Podcast: https://the-cabin.simplecast.com. Follow on social @thecabinpodShop Discover Wisconsin: shop.discoverwisconsin.com. Follow on social @shopdiscoverwisconsinDiscover Wisconsin: https://discoverwisconsin.com/. Follow on social @discoverwisconsinDiscover Mediaworks: https://discovermediaworks.com/. Follow on social @discovermediaworksWisconsin Counties Association: https://www.wicounties.org/

Todays episode is a replay episode from May 2024Want To Quit Your Job In The Next 6-18 Months Through Buying Commercial Real Estate & Small Businesses?

Building a business is easy compared to building one that actually lasts.In this episode, I sit down with Corey Lewis, CEO and Owner of Xtra Mile Fitness, to talk about leadership, resilience, and what it takes to grow through hard seasons without losing your values. We unpack what it means to build a business around people, culture, and long-term thinking instead of quick wins.Corey founded Xtra Mile Fitness in 2012 with a simple mission: help people become stronger physically and mentally through coaching and community. Over the years, he's built more than a gym. He's built an environment where accountability, leadership, and personal growth come first.This conversation goes beyond fitness. It's about navigating uncertainty, leading a team with intention, and creating a business that supports your life instead of consuming it.If you're a business owner or leader trying to grow while staying aligned with your values, this episode will resonate.Connect with Xtra Mile FitnessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtra-mile-fitness/Website: https://xm.fitness/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gothexmInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtra.mile.fitness/Connect with Corey LewisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-lewis-955361165/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corey_j_lewis/Connect with Builders of AuthorityWebsite: https://buildauthority.comFREE Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/7685392924809322BOA Mastermind: https://buildauthority.co/order-form-mastermindGoHighLevel Extended 30-day Free Trial w/TONS of Personal Branding Bonuses: http://gohighlevel.com/adammcchesney

The last clinical corner article of 2025! Matt and Allie are back to discuss this month's article about a familiar topic: Prehab! This specific article is a literature review that gathers information from thousands of cases and reports covering controlled trials that compared treatments for total hip and total knee surgeries. Matt poses his monthly question to PT students listening, and describes the findings in the article. Read the article here: https://www.jospt.org/doi/10.2519/jospt.2025.13075Are you a current/past patient tuning in from the link in your email? Leave a comment on our socials and share this with a friend! Have a question or are looking to start prehab for yourself? Contact us here: https://www.oxfordphysicaltherapy.com/ask-a-questionDid you know that you don't need a doctor's prescription to receive physical therapy? The laws of Direct Access allow you to receive physical therapy without a referral and still use your insurance benefits! Learn more on how Direct Access can help YOU! Our website: https://www.oxfordphysicaltherapy.com/

Today, I am pleased to welcome The Honorable Stuart Nash, CEO and Founder of Nash Kelly Global, a bespoke consultancy that specializes in facilitating New Zealand permanent residency and resettlement through the country's Golden Visa program. Stuart was a senior Cabinet Minister for 5.5 years in the Ardern Administration and launched New Zealand's Golden Visa (or as it is titled: the Active Investor Plus Visa) in September 2022 as Minister of Economic Development. His portfolios included Minister of Police, Economic Development, Small Business, Tourism, Revenue, Forestry, and Fisheries. Before politics, Stuart worked in senior and general management roles in both the private and public sector. For those in our audience who have not kept close tabs, Stuart updates us on the latest developments in New Zealand and describes how the social, economic, and political environment has developed in recent years. Stuart led the team that created and launched New Zealand's Golden Visa program – the Active Investor Plus Visa. He describes the program and its unique features and attractions, commenting on what makes New Zealand an attractive destination for wealthy individuals and families looking for alternative residence jurisdictions. Stuart offers some practical tips for families and family offices that are looking at New Zealand as a jurisdiction, providing useful pointers on some of the basics on how to set up their life there, including things like housing, education, health insurance, and others. For those who are interested to explore residency or citizenship in New Zealand, Stuart has a number of suggestions on how to get started and paints a picture of the different services and options available, including those offered by his firm, Nash Kelly. Enjoy this insightful conversation with one of the pioneers of the golden visa programs that are attracting families and their family offices to New Zealand.

Expressing appreciation is a dying principal in modern business. There is no way around this. Saying THANK YOU to customers is all but dead. An expression of appreciation on a paper, or text receipt is not making any customer feel warm and fuzzy. When are you going to pick up the phone, write a handwritten note, or send some chocolates to a customer?Support the show

00:00:00 - Introduction00:00:52 - Small Business & Charity: How Communities Support Ronald McDonald House00:11:16 - Call For Small Campaign Winners00:11:50 - Inside Black Friday 2025: What the Data Tells Us00:21:22 - OutroChapter 1: Small Business & Charity: How Communities Support Ronald McDonald House  Al is joined by Kate Horton from Ronald McDonald House Canada. She shares stories of how the organization supports families during their child's medical treatments. Ronald McDonald House Canada has supported more than 500,000 families across Canada since inception in 1981.Learn how you can help make a difference.Chapter 2: Inside Black Friday 2025: What the Data Tells UsJoin Al as he dives into the results from Black Friday 2025 with resident data expert Sean McCormick. Despite high hopes, spending was down 4% year-over-year, revealing intriguing regional differences and consumer behaviors. Discover key insights into the holiday shopping season, economic pressures, and strategic tips for merchants.Links of InterestRoncy PacksRonald McDonald House Canada / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookMoneris Data Services  Subscribe now!If you have a payment-related or business question you'd like to submit to one of our experts, you can email us at podcast@moneris.com.Just Good Business is a Moneris podcast production hosted by Al Grego.

Stephen Grootes speaks to Bulelani Balabala, Business Speaker, Media Contributor and Township Entrepreneur at TEA, about how hustle is part of the eKasi culture, and how burnout is a silent threat that can collapse both the individual and the business. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reach Out Via Text!In this episode Jeremiah Jennings walks through the real planning process behind Growing Green Landscapes heading into twenty twenty six and explains why growth without discipline nearly broke the business the year before. He shares how revenue growth exposed weak systems cash leaks and the absence of a predictable lead engine and why the next season must be built on data instead of emotion. Jeremiah breaks down his focus on building a legitimate marketing pipeline tracking close rates and average job size and using real numbers to evaluate return on investment. He explains how spending money on marketing without analytics is gambling and why knowing your numbers allows you to hold vendors accountable and make confident decisions. This episode is a practical look at how to move from guessing to leading and how disciplined planning can turn chaos into controlled growth.Support the show 10% off LMN Software- https://lmncompany.partnerlinks.io/growinggreenpodcast Signup for our Newsletter- https://mailchi.mp/942ae158aff5/newsletter-signup Book A Consult Call-https://stan.store/GrowingGreenPodcast Lawntrepreneur Academy-https://www.lawntrepreneuracademy.com/ The Landscaping Bookkeeper-https://thelandscapingbookkeeper.com/ Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/growinggreenlandscapes/ Email-ggreenlandscapes@gmail.com Growing Green Website- https://www.growinggreenlandscapes.com/

Get your FREE 7 Pricing Essentials for CPAs and EAs here:https://geraldinecarter.com/7Still think the safest move is squeezing in more clients and chasing bigger numbers? The numbers will never fix money worry – thinking differently will.In this episode, hear Peak Freedom's resident mindset coach Natalie Hunt unpack beliefs driving overwork: more-is-better, don't-leave-money-on-the-table, guilt over pricing, fear of being “greedy.” Learn to redefine success, spot “can't” stories, price to value, and say no without spiraling. Walk away with practical reframes to create time, calm, and profit – on purpose and it ways that actually stick.…Link to full shownotes: https://www.businessstrategyforcpas.com/377…Want Pricing Essentials?If you feel trapped by your own accounting firm, it's not because of the work – it's how you've priced the work. Too many accountants are stuck in undercharging, overdelivering, and people-pleasing cycles. Break the pattern with my short PDF guide: 7 Pricing Essentials »It's free and you can read it in 5 minutes.I want to help you get your prices up without losing loyal clients.  …Want client interviews?310 From Exhausted to Having Her Life Back: Wendy Norman, CPA304 From 55 Down to 15 Hours; Same Take-Home Pay with Melissa Downs, EA293 What it Takes to Work 15 Hours per Week with Erica Goode, CPAComplete list:geraldinecarter.com/client-interview-episodes…Connect with Natalie:https://www.simplylovingleadership.com/…FOUR ways I help overworked CPAs go down to 40 hours without losing revenue or hiring:THE EMAIL COURSE – Freegeraldinecarter.com/stop-working-weekendsStop Working Weekends will teach you how to reduce your hours without giving up revenue. THE BOOK – $9.99geraldinecarter.com/bookDown to 40 Hours – A Roadmap for CPAs to End Overworking Without Losing RevenuePEAK FREEDOM COMMUNITY – $197/mogeraldinecarter.com/peak-freedomFor solo and small accounting firm owners who want to rise above the insanity of hustle-cultureDOWN TO 40 HOURS ACCELERATOR – $995/mogeraldinecarter.com/40For the overworked CPA at multiple six figures of revenue who is ready to stop working weekends, wants to implement overdue changes, and doesn't want to do it alone. You'll make progress faster and with more confidence. … Get your FREE 7 Pricing Essentials for CPAs and EAs here:https://geraldinecarter.com/7

How do you go from seven employees to seven figures 11 years? Heather Piselli, Aliscia Martinelli and Monica Rivera did it together. They're co-owners of Privé Salon Co., with three comission salon locations and a suite rental facility in the Phildelphia metro area. The also co-host the GoHam podcast, featuring unfiltered conversations on business, leadership, and the beauty industry.On this episode, Blake is joined by Healther, Alisica, and Monica; and their Summit salon coach, Kierstin Nemer, who's been at their side throughout the journey. Yes this is the most guests we've ever had on a single episode -- but the conversation really demonstrates how each team member plays to her strenghts! You'll hear about their strategies for hiring, taking risks, growing service providers, and why the phrase "Go Ham" describes their business ethos.    Follow Summit Salon Business Center on Instagram @SummitSalon, and on TikTok at SummitSalon. SUMM IT UP is now on YouTube! Watch extended cuts of our interviews at www.youtube.com/@summitunlockedFind host Blake Reed Evans on Instagram @BlakeReedEvans and on TikTok at blakereedevans. His DM's are always open! You can email Blake at bevans@summitsalon.com. Visit us at SummitSalon.com to connect with others in the industry.

HR compliance isn't just paperwork—it's what stands between your business and costly mistakes that can derail growth. In this conversation, Lisa DeMaria from Utopia Solutions breaks down the five most common HR misconceptions in trades businesses, from misclassifying workers to why your office manager can't do it all and the multi-state compliance traps that catch expanding companies off guard. This conversation gives you the roadmap to get HR right before problems show up at your door—protecting your business while creating the kind of culture that keeps great people around.Today's Podcast is brought to you by Boolean Automation

Resilience isn't just for small startups—it's vital for businesses of all sizes. In this episode, Jonathan Biddle, author of Supply Chain for Startups, joins Reid Jackson to discuss how companies can build resilient supply chains using key metrics and smart strategies. Jonathan explains how early decisions about structure, visibility, and supplier engagement can set you up for long-term success.  This conversation offers a clear view of what it takes to build supply chain operations that can adapt as the business grows. In this episode, you'll learn: How process mapping uncovers weak points that limit supply chain stability Why consistent supplier communication strengthens visibility and reduces risk The early operational signals that indicate it's time to upgrade systems Things to listen for: (00:00) Introducing Next Level Supply Chain (04:07) Building resilience for early-stage supply chains (06:37) Why supplier insight matters for managing risk (09:41) Daily and weekly habits that improve operations (14:36) Signals that current processes are no longer scalable (20:06) Tools that support growing operations (25:11) How AI can help small supply chain teams (30:21) Jonathan's favorite tech Connect with GS1 US: Our website - www.gs1us.orgGS1 US on LinkedIn   This episode is brought to you by: Aarongraphics and Wholechain If you're interested in becoming or working with a GS1 US solution partner, please connect with us on LinkedIn or on our website. Connect with the guests: Jonathan Biddle on LinkedInCheck out Jonathan's book, Supply Chain for Startups

S5:E37 Small business owners: your phone experience is part of your brand. In this episode, Jessica Volker (Business Development Director at Responsive Answering Service) sits down with Dr. LL and breaks down why "scripted and offshore" support is driving customers crazy. She shares how human-first answering, smart automation, and better processes can protect your reputation and capture more leads. Top takeaways and timestamps: ⏱️3:56 — Why overly scripted customer service destroys trust (and how to sound human again) ⏱️5:36 — The answering service evolution: from "take a message" to virtual receptionist + CRM/EHR updates  ⏱️7:28 — AI in customer service: where it helps (wrap-up tasks) and where humans still win ⏱️12:33 — Work-life reality: how flexibility creates better employees (and better outcomes) ⏱️20:53 — What's coming in 2026: expanded omnichannel support (social, email, text, scheduling, integrations) Follow us on social media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Midlifesuccess Instagram: https://instagram.com/steerus Facebook: https://facebook.com/steerus LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/steerus TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@steerus   #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneur #CustomerService #CustomerExperience #AnsweringService #smallbizstories

In a lively episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes Carl Knoblock, Virginia District Director of the Small Business Administration, for a candid discussion about artificial intelligence (AI) and its growing influence on small businesses. Meeting at the bustling Espresso Bar in downtown Winchester, the two dive into the realities, misconceptions, and opportunities that AI presents for entrepreneurs. Demystifying AI: More Than Just Buzzwords Janet opens the conversation by asking Carl to break down AI in simple terms. Carl draws a parallel between traditional business record-keeping and modern AI, explaining that while businesses once relied on handwritten logs, today's AI systems gather and analyze vast amounts of data from the internet. However, he cautions that AI is still in its infancy—capable of collecting information but not yet adept at discerning relevance or context. As Carl puts it, "AI is just grabbing anything, like kids in a store." The Human Touch: Training and Taming AI Transitioning from theory to practice, Janet and Carl discuss the importance of human involvement in shaping AI outputs. Janet likens training AI to raising a toddler: the more you interact and correct it, the more it adapts to your style and needs. Both agree that while AI can automate tasks and provide insights, it requires ongoing supervision and fine-tuning to ensure accuracy and authenticity. "If you have great data, you're okay. If you have poor data, you're going to have to build it," Carl notes, emphasizing the need for quality input. Practical Applications: From Forecasting to Customer Service The conversation shifts to practical uses of AI for small businesses. Janet highlights how AI can streamline market research, identify customer preferences, and even generate strategic plans—tasks that once required hours of manual effort. Carl adds that AI can help businesses analyze sales data, manage inventory, and forecast trends, allowing owners to make informed decisions. However, they caution against over-reliance on AI, stressing the importance of human oversight, especially when interpreting nuanced data or handling customer interactions. Addressing Fears: Will AI Replace Human Jobs? Naturally, the discussion turns to the fear that AI will eliminate jobs. Carl draws historical comparisons to the rise of automation in manufacturing, pointing out that while machines can handle repetitive tasks, they cannot replicate human creativity, problem-solving, or empathy. Janet echoes this sentiment, noting that AI excels at logic but falls short in situations requiring intuition or emotional intelligence. Both agree that rather than replacing humans, AI will shift the nature of work, creating new opportunities for those willing to adapt. The Limits of Automation: Why People Still Matter Janet and Carl explore scenarios where AI falls short—such as handling sensitive customer service issues or adapting to unique, real-world challenges. They recount stories of businesses losing customers due to impersonal AI-driven support systems and highlight the value of empathy during life events like bereavement. "Companies don't even think about the human side," Carl observes, urging businesses to integrate compassion into their processes. Looking Ahead: Embracing Change with Confidence As the conversation draws to a close, Janet asks Carl for advice to small business owners just beginning to experiment with AI. Carl recommends starting with forecasting and data analysis, leveraging existing information to make better decisions. He encourages business owners to seek help from tech-savvy students or professionals and to remain open to learning and adaptation. Janet concludes by emphasizing the importance of implementation—reminding listeners that while AI can provide valuable insights, it's up to humans to put those ideas into action. Conclusion: The Future is Collaborative Ultimately, Janet and Carl agree that AI is a powerful tool, but its true value emerges when paired with human judgment, creativity, and empathy. As technology continues to evolve, small businesses that embrace both innovation and the human touch will be best positioned to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

The Lahaina Small Boat Harbor has officially reopened for commercial operations; A new report says small businesses are struggling to fill job openings

As 2025 wraps, many business owners are feeling the wobble, slower demand, rising costs, and uncertainty about what 2026 will look like. In this episode, Melissa explains why the economy feels off, why small businesses feel the impact more intensely, and how to regain control with her Wobbly Economy Planning Framework.Four planning mistakes to avoidTrying to cut your way to growthCreating one rigid planFreezing hiring and burning out your teamMaking pricing decisions too lateThe Wobbly Economy Planning FrameworkMelissa walks you through creating three scenario-based plans, Best Case, Likely Case, and Worst Case, plus how to review your offers, build an expense strategy, set cash and margin guardrails, and choose the right KPIs.Your role as the leaderYour energy sets the tone. Your team and clients don't need certainty, they need clarity, confidence, and a steady path forward.Need help building your 2026 plan?Book a free consultation at www.melissafranks.com/fractionalcooservices planning in a wobbly economy is too important to do alone.Connect with Melissa: Watch the Episodes on Youtube Instagram: instagram.com/melissa_franks Schedule a call: melissafranks.com

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Please take 12 seconds to rate and review the podcast because it helps us find new listeners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐FREE RESOURCES✅ Get a free digital copy of my bestselling book for a limited time, Choice Hacking: How to use psychology and behavioral science to create an experience that sings. Get it here: https://www.choicehacking.com/free-book/ ✅ Get FREE weekly marketing psychology insights when you join my newsletter, Choice Hacking Ideas: Join the 10k+ people getting daily insights on how to 2x their marketing effectiveness (so sales and profit 2x, too) using buyer psychology. Join here: https://www.choicehacking.com/read/✅ Connect with host Jennifer Clinehens on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok @ChoiceHacking and @BuildwithChoiceHackingWORK WITH US✅ Corporate Training: Get your team up-skilled marketing psychology and behavioral science with a workshop or training session. Choice Hacking has worked with brands like Microsoft, T-Mobile, and McDonalds to help their teams apply behavioral science and marketing psychology.Learn more here, and get in touch using the contact form at the bottom of the page: https://www.choicehacking.com/training/✅ Get your own Chief Marketing Copilot for your business when you my new program. Get live Skill Sessions, Implementation Sessions, and one-on-one time with me.Learn more here: https://choicehacking.academy/pro/✅ Buy my book in Kindle, paperback, or audiobook form: "Choice Hacking: How to use psychology and behavioral science to create an experience that sings": https://choicehacking.com/PodBook/ ★ Support this podcast ★

S5:E37 Small business owners: your phone experience is part of your brand. In this episode, Jessica Volker (Business Development Director at Responsive Answering Service) sits down with Dr. LL and breaks down why "scripted and offshore" support is driving customers crazy. She shares how human-first answering, smart automation, and better processes can protect your reputation and capture more leads. Top takeaways and timestamps: ⏱️3:56 — Why overly scripted customer service destroys trust (and how to sound human again) ⏱️5:36 — The answering service evolution: from "take a message" to virtual receptionist + CRM/EHR updates  ⏱️7:28 — AI in customer service: where it helps (wrap-up tasks) and where humans still win ⏱️12:33 — Work-life reality: how flexibility creates better employees (and better outcomes) ⏱️20:53 — What's coming in 2026: expanded omnichannel support (social, email, text, scheduling, integrations) Follow us on social media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Midlifesuccess Instagram: https://instagram.com/steerus Facebook: https://facebook.com/steerus LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/steerus TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@steerus   #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneur #CustomerService #CustomerExperience #AnsweringService #smallbizstories

Thor Tingey, CEO of Alpacka Raft, discusses what it takes to establish a new category in the outdoor industry and to build an independent, family-owned company. Twenty-five years after pioneering modern packrafting, Thor shares hard-won wisdom about balancing innovation with customer feedback, navigating explosive COVID-era growth, and why maintaining in-house production is critical to his long-term strategy. Thor explains how thoughtful, sustained growth and deep customer relationships define market leadership in the outdoor industry.Episode HighlightsDomestic manufacturing philosophy: Why in-house USA production preserves critical manufacturing knowledge that offshore production erodes.Establishing a new sport: The unique challenges and responsibilities of pioneering packrafting as a recreational activity and building a market category from scratch over 25 years.Customer-driven success metrics: Defining business achievement through authentic superfan stories rather than revenue numbers—when customers evangelize your brand unprompted, you've wonInnovation vs. feedback balance: Weighing when to push design boundaries versus listening to what experienced customers actually need in the fieldMarket leadership responsibility: Grappling with the ethical dimensions of being the category creator—from social media restraint to thoughtful product positioningLinks:KORE OutdoorsAlpacka RaftsSheri - a documentary about Thor's mom who was Alpacka's original founder & CEOAbundance - book Thor mentionsFor more about the KORE Outdoors Podcast, visit https://koreoutdoors.org/podcast/The KORE Outdoors Podcast is supported by the Province of British Columbia.

“Make sure you actually believe you can follow your plan. Because if you don't feel hopeful, then you're never going to feel motivated, you're never going to feel committed, and you're never going to follow through.”Welcome back to another episode of The Speaker Lab Podcast! Today, Grant Baldwin is joined by Adam Gilbert, the mastermind behind MyBodyTutor.com and DoneDaily.com, to discuss insights for anyone looking to build a thriving speaking business or simply create lasting change in their personal and professional life.Adam opens up about the profound impact his father's health struggles had on his mission to help others transform their lives through nutrition, fitness, and productivity. With over eighteen years of experience and over ten thousand clients served, he's learned that while most people know what they should do, there's often a huge gap between knowledge and action. This episode breaks down the importance of “MPH”—mindset, psychology, and habits—and highlights practical frameworks anyone can use to move from dreaming to doing. You'll learn why accountability is a game-changer, how starting small can build the momentum you need, and what it really takes to keep promises to yourself. Additionally, Adam explains how discomfort can be a compass for growth, why surrounding yourself with supportive people matters, and how to challenge assumptions that keep you stuck.Whether you're just starting and struggling to book your first gig or you're a veteran looking to scale up, this conversation is loaded with implementable advice and motivating stories!You'll learn:Why consistency is hard for entrepreneurs and speakersThe role and importance of accountabilityThe parallels between health/fitness and entrepreneurship/speakingWhy motivation is critical for sustained effortBreaking down MPH: Mindset, Psychology, HabitsReconciling assumptions about successPractical steps to develop self-confidenceCPA: Clear objective, Plan, Actual belief in follow-throughBuilding momentum through small winsAnd much, much more!“There's fear of failure, but there's also fear of success, which is surprisingly very common but not often spoken about.”Episode ResourcesAdam's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Want To Quit Your Job In The Next 6-18 Months Through Buying Commercial Real Estate & Small Businesses?

It's our final episode of 2025! Jump in the sleigh and let's go. We will be back for Season 4 the last week of January 2026. Don't forget to join our online community at WhosDrivingPodcast.com Join the conversation by calling their hotline at 864-982-5029 with your own stories or topic suggestions, and experience the authentic charm of two best friends who truly never know who's driving or where they're headed.Look For The Water Bottle! Tap Here For Hidrate Spark water bottle.Visit www.WesleyTurnerLiving.com to find so much more about all the things we do! Follow Steven on Instagram at @Keepinupwithsteven and follow Wesley on Instagram at @WesleyTurnerLiving.  Shop our online store at TheNestedFig.Com  Find The Nested Fig on Instagram at @TheNestedFig We mentioned The Nested Fig App in this episode. You can Tap Here to get our app and join our live sales 

Nima Jalali built SALT & STONE out of his apartment into a $100M+ brand, without ever pitching a single retailer. After an ACL injury redirected his path, he created something he desperately wanted but didn't exist, a high quality, clean deodorant, that actually performs. SALT & STONE has now become one of the fastest growing brands in the space to-date by doing things differently. Even right now, every 60 seconds a SALT & STONE deodorant is bought.  In this candid conversation Nima opens up about transitioning from a pro surfboarder into the Founder role, what it takes to build a killer team, and what keeps him going. He reveals the counter-intuitive strategy that got Sephora to come to him, and how he iterated his deodorant formula through 5 generations before calling it perfect. You'll Learn: Why going through 5+ product iterations beats launching "good enough"The digital excellence strategy that makes retailers chase you (not the other way around)How to build legacy brand positioning even as a one-person startupWhy getting a "no" from retailers too early can kill your momentumThe mindset shift from solo athlete to team builderThe key to building a digital identity that inspires & attracts customersCHAPTERS: 00:00 Introducing Nima Jalali, Founder & CEO of SALT & STONE3:00 Transitioning from Pro Snowboarder to Business Owner 4:55 The 5 Generations of Product Perfection6:45 How to Think Like Nike When You're a One-Man Show8:13 What Nima Did to Build a Brand Sephora NEEDS to Have10:09 Steps to Achieve Digital Excellence 12:39 SALT & STONE'S Philosophy on: Ingredient Sourcing, Product Development & Testing 19:06 How to Set Your Business Up to Grow Into a Legacy Brand From Day 1  22:07 The Retail Strategy That Never Fails 28:35 Tackling Global Expansion & Managing Expectations as a Founder   29:55 Single Most Impactful Thing NIma Did in The First 6 Months That Made SALT & STONE Successful  Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

In this episode, I explore the vital first step in entrepreneurship: identifying a profitable product idea, which is crucial for building a successful online business. I emphasize the iterative nature of product development and the importance of tapping into market needs through personal frustrations and community insights.Listeners will learn how to harness everyday challenges to uncover authentic product ideas with built-in validation. I also share valuable strategies for exploring what's selling in your niche by analyzing popular marketplaces like Amazon, Etsy, and Kickstarter for sales data, reviews, and trends.I outline a straightforward testing strategy to evaluate profit potential, utilizing tools like Google Trends and market size assessments to ensure demand and consumer willingness to pay. Using a practical example of launching an online course, I guide you through idea conception, validation, and beta launches.Throughout the episode, I encourage embracing uncertainty, experimenting, and taking incremental steps toward your entrepreneurial goals. Join me to discover how to brainstorm, validate, and act on product ideas, all while reshaping your approach to work-life balance.Don't miss this episode if you're ready to embrace innovation and reshape your entrepreneurial narrative!Chapters:0:03; Finding Profitable Product Ideas0:46: The Freedom of Entrepreneurship2:08: Generating Product Ideas3:30: Listening to Online Conversations5:40: Studying What Sells6:37: Testing Your Product Idea12:53: Validating Your Idea18:16: Action Steps to Take20:33: Resources for Your Journey24:22: Engaging with Your AudienceGrab our FREE course, Small Business 101: https://www.gillianperkins.com/small-business-101-free-opt-inMore FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:The $100K Method Podcast Series: https://www.gillianperkins.com/the-100k-methodWrite a Profit Plan for Your Business : http://gillianperkins.com/free-profit-plan Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.Have you already started your business, but it isn't generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!Work with Gillian Perkins:Apply for $100K Mastermind: https://gillianperkins.com/100k-mastermind Get your online biz started with Startup Society: https://startupsociety.com Learn more about Gillian: https://gillianperkins.com Instagram: @GillianZPerkins

Send us a text! (Your number stays private)The end of the year has a way of sneaking up on us, doesn't it? In this episode, I share five small business tips that actually work, from making strong first impressions and clarifying your messaging to showing up authentically and keeping things simple. These lessons have helped my clients attract the right customers and grow their businesses with less stress, and they can help you head into 2026 with clarity, confidence, and focus.Links & Resources:Free Guide: The 3-Second Homepage TestEpisode 172, The Year-End Website Audit That Gets You More SalesWatch this episode on YouTubeFollow me on Instagram @kristendoyle.co Check out my Everything Page: a one-stop shop for savvy selling!The Savvy Seller CollectiveJoin my private Facebook community: Savvy Teacher SellersMore resources for growing your TPT businessRate & review The Savvy Teacher Seller on Apple PodcastsShow Notes: https://kristendoyle.co/episode173Tired of worrying about WordPress updates and website maintenance? My worry-free WPCare Plan handles all your updates, security monitoring, and maintenance so you can focus on running your business. My team and I would love to be in your corner, taking your website off your plate.Learn more and get started at kristendoyle.co/care. Check out my Everything Page at https://kristendoyle.co/everything

Avoiding your numbers? This episode is your gentle but honest financial reset. Lauren Tilden sits down with Leah McCool of Orca Accounting to break down bookkeeping basics, common mistakes, and how understanding your numbers can actually feel empowering—not scary. If you want a calmer, clearer, more sustainable business (without drowning in spreadsheets), this is a must-listen.NEXT EPISODE→ It's Time to Pay Yourself | Book Club | ‘Profit First' by Mike Michalowicz | 109THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR→ Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link. Terms and conditions apply.SHOW NOTES→ 319: The Full Show Notes PageFROM LEAH→  The Bookkeeping Starter Pack→  Leah's website→  InstagramWHEN YOU'RE READY

As we wrap up 2025, I want to invite you to pause before you jump into goal setting, business planning, or strategy for 2026. In this episode of How to Grow My Small Business, we're talking about the one thing you need to do before planning for next year—and it has nothing to do with sales funnels, marketing statistics, or even your client work. If you're a small business owner, Christian entrepreneur, or faith-led leader who feels: discouraged about how this year went unsure whether it was a “good year” or a “bad year” stuck replaying mistakes, missed goals, or stress ready for growth but emotionally exhausted This episode is for you. I walk you through why our brains are wired to remember the hard things more than the good, how that affects how we evaluate our business and our lives, and how one simple reflection exercise can completely change how you remember this year—and how you plan the next one. In this episode, we cover: Why your brain remembers stress, mistakes, and fear more than wins The science behind negative memory bias and how it impacts entrepreneurs How faith and awareness help reframe how we evaluate our business year The one exercise you should do before setting business goals for 2026 Why reviewing your photos and calendar can shift your mindset instantly How false narratives (like “I didn't do enough”) quietly sabotage confidence Why reflection should come before goal setting and strategic planning How to ask God what He wants for your business in the next season Faith-based encouragement for business owners coming out of a hard year Who this episode is for: Christian entrepreneurs and faith-led business owners Small business owners reflecting on the end of the year Entrepreneurs planning goals for 2026 Business owners struggling with burnout, discouragement, or comparison Leaders who want to grow their business without losing perspective or peace Key takeaway: Before you plan what's next, take time to remember what actually happened. Your brain won't automatically remember the good—you have to lead it there on purpose. This one step may completely change how you view 2025 and how you move into 2026. About the podcast: How to Grow My Small Business is a podcast for small business owners who want practical sales strategy, sustainable business growth, and faith-based encouragement without hustle culture. Hosted by Lindsay Fletcher, business growth strategist and sales coach, the show covers: sales and follow-up strategies lead generation for small businesses faith-based business growth integrating faith in business mindset, time management, and leadership building a business with Jesus at the center Biblical business strategies Christian entrepreneurship growing a sustainable business If this episode encouraged you, make sure to follow the podcast so you don't miss the final episode of 2025 and what's coming next. Let's stay connected: If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow small business owner who needs encouragement heading into the new year. And remember: You are not behind. You are not failing. And there was more good in this year than your brain is letting you remember.  

Managing a private practice, like any business, means managing growth. And growth always happens in phases. That means, we all start as beginners somehow - right?I know.But the start up phase of a private practice can be completely overwhelming. No one taught us how to do this in grad school, and we have a LOT of questions.What do I charge?Should I offer a sliding scale?How will I get paid?Who should I work with?Where will I see them?Do I have to offer evening appointments?How do I get referrals?What do I say when someone asks me what I do?Whew boy. So. Many. Questions.(And that's just for starters!)Well don't worry my friend, because I've got you covered.In today's episode, I'm going to break it all down, so you'll know what you HAVE to know up front, and what can wait.In this episode, I'll share:Three key decisions you'll have to make up front, and how getting those in place will make everything else so much easier.Four new skills it will help to learn in your new role as a business owner.A handful of specific action steps to take as you figure out the foundation of your practice.Feeling a little overwhelmed? Let's fix that.Let's get you started, so you can open your doors to new income, and new ways to help others.~Wendy_______________THIS WEEK'S JOURNAL PROMPT:Based on what you've learned from today's episode, what one thing could you do today to move your private practice, your business, forward?_______________MENTIONED:Episode 67. What Should You Charge When Clients Cancel at the Last Minute? [https://www.wendypittsreeves.com/blog/67]Episode 82. Overcome Money Shame for More Success, with Profit Coach Sam Varner [https://www.wendypittsreeves.com/blog/82]_______________NEED a Money Mindset RESET?You'll love this. Get it for $50 off with the promo code Ideal50 at checkout!Mind Over Money [http://wendypittsreeves.com/mind]Support the showWendy Pitts Reeves, LCSWHost, Ideal PracticePrivate Practice Coach and Mentorwww.WendyPittsReeves.comWendy@WendyPittsReeves.com

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Nikki: My superpower is focusing on what I can do. I can figure out a way.Momentum Coffee is more than just a place to grab your morning latte. Co-founded by Nikki Bravo, the Chicago-based coffee shop chain is building something bigger than beverages—it's creating intentional spaces for connection, growth, and community impact in underserved neighborhoods.As Nikki explains, “Momentum Coffee isn't just about business. Mission is at the core. We wouldn't be doing this just to make money. This really is about the communities and how we serve them.” From offering high-quality coffee and tea to creating jobs that keep dollars circulating locally, every decision at Momentum Coffee is rooted in purpose.What sets Momentum apart is its deliberate focus on under-resourced areas. Nikki and her husband, Tracy Powell, are careful about where they open locations and how they engage with the community. “Spaces in under-resourced areas need places where people can convene and be together,” Nikki says. “Momentum Coffee is able to do all of those things.”Beyond the café experience, Momentum Coffee is actively shaping people's lives. Nikki shared the story of an employee—a single mother of two—who, after working at Momentum for two years, became a first-time homeowner. “What we see here, what we're growing here at Momentum Coffee, is a lot of possibility,” Nikki says.In addition to its community-driven mission, Momentum Coffee recently launched a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign through Honeycomb Credit. This initiative invites supporters from across the country to invest in the company, helping it expand its impact while offering a financial return. “Through crowdfunding, it allows us not only to grow so that we impact more people, but have more people do that with us,” Nikki explains.Momentum Coffee's power-button logo symbolizes action and empowerment, perfectly reflecting its mission. With four locations and counting, Nikki and Tracy are proving that a coffee shop can do far more than serve drinks—it can create opportunities, empower individuals, and build stronger communities.By supporting their crowdfunding campaign, investors can help Momentum Coffee continue its inspiring work while becoming part of the journey.tl;dr:Momentum Coffee builds community in underserved neighborhoods by creating intentional spaces for connection.Nikki Bravo's team uses crowdfunding to expand while engaging and empowering their community.The coffee shop chain provides jobs that help employees achieve life-changing milestones like homeownership.Nikki's superpower—focusing on actionable solutions—enabled Momentum Coffee to thrive during the pandemic.This episode highlights how mission-driven businesses can create impact while remaining financially sustainable.How to Develop Focusing on What You Can Do As a SuperpowerNikki's superpower is their ability to focus on actionable solutions, no matter the challenge. As Nikki explains, “My superpower is focusing on what I can do. I can figure out a way.” This mindset has been key to navigating obstacles as a business owner, community leader, and parent. Nikki describes this strength as the ability to recognize the situation at hand and then take steps toward a solution.When Nikki and her husband opened a new Momentum Coffee location in early 2020, the pandemic forced the city to shut down just as they were ready to launch. Instead of giving up, Nikki pivoted. “We got an online solution and served coffee and pastries at the front door,” Nikki recalls. This step-by-step approach allowed Momentum to survive the early days of the pandemic and later thrive as a full-service café.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Start by identifying what is within your control and focus your energy there.Break challenges into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.Encourage others to take ownership of problems by asking, “What can you do?”Celebrate small wins to build confidence and momentum.Approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset rather than dwelling on barriers.By following Nikki's example and advice, you can make focusing on what you can do a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileNikki Bravo (she/her):Co-Founder and CEO, Momentum CoffeeAbout Momentum Coffee: Momentum Coffee is a Chicago-based coffee brand that pairs high-quality coffee service with deep community impact. Co-founded by Nikki Bravo and Tracy Powell, Momentum serves coffee, tea, pastries, and sandwiches across multiple locations in under-resourced neighborhoods, while also roasting its own beans and offering catering, wholesale, and a small business food incubator. Guided by its mission, “Rooted in Community, Powered by Coffee,” Momentum is committed to local hiring, workforce development, and partnerships that uplift entrepreneurs. More than a café, Momentum is a community anchor—creating welcoming spaces, training opportunities, and real economic mobility—while expanding its roasting and distribution program into a scalable, impact-driven coffee brand positioned for growth.Website: momentumcoffee.orgCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/momentumcoffeeandcoworking/aboutOther URL: invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/momentum-coffeeBiographical Information: Nikki Bravo is a seasoned entrepreneur, community builder, and business leader dedicated to advancing equity, access, and economic opportunity. She is the Founder of Momentum Coffee and Coworking, a mission-driven social enterprise addressing inequities in the coffee shop and coworking space by creating welcoming, community-centered environments across Chicago. A Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses alum, Nikki brings deep expertise in finance, administration, and operations, with a proven ability to launch, scale, and sustain ventures that blend profitability with social impact.In addition to Momentum Coffee, Nikki serves as Executive Director of Ignite Technology and Innovation, a nonprofit developing affordable, technology-enabled workspaces in underserved communities worldwide. Her career also includes senior leadership roles with the City of Chicago and the Public Building Commission, where she oversaw complex operations across finance, human resources, and workforce development. Known for her collaborative leadership style and cross-functional expertise, Nikki is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs, supporting local economies, and building inclusive ecosystems where communities can thrive.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/nikkibravoPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/nikkirbravoInstagram Handle: @bravo_nikki Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and SuperGreen Live. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Green, Envirosult | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on December 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, December 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern, will feature Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., leading a session on “Designing a Winning Marketing Strategy for Your Investment Offering.” Drawing on his deep experience in impact crowdfunding and investment storytelling, Devin will break down the essential elements of building a marketing strategy that attracts, engages, and converts potential investors. Participants will learn how to identify and reach the right audience, craft messages that build trust, and develop a promotional plan that supports sustained momentum throughout a raise. Whether you're preparing for your first regulated investment crowdfunding campaign or looking to strengthen an ongoing one, this SuperCrowdHour will provide the insights and practical frameworks you need to elevate your offering and boost investor participation.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.CfPA President-elect's Vision for 2026 with Brian Belley, December 17 at 2:00 PM ET – reserve your spot now!If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

Joe DiChiara is a Certified Public Accountant and visionary entrepreneur with over 40 years of experience helping small business owners succeed. He is the founder and CEO of CPAi Business Builders, Bedrock Tax Solutions, and Bedrock Business Training, where he combines traditional financial expertise with cutting-edge AI tools to simplify and scale entrepreneurship.A #1 best-selling author, speaker, and podcast host, Joe has trained thousands of self-employed professionals worldwide and is on a mission to disrupt the accounting industry by delivering affordable, AI-powered business solutions. His passion is empowering entrepreneurs to overcome bureaucracy, eliminate overwhelm, and build businesses that truly work for them.Visit Joe's Website: www.cpaibusinessbuilders.com

How do small and women-owned businesses survive — and thrive — in markets dominated by massive competitors? In this power-packed episode of Women Road Warriors, marketing and branding strategist Julie Matzen reveals the real-world strategies that help small businesses break through the noise and compete on a larger stage.Julie, co-founder of MayDay Agency and Boarderline, has made it her mission to level the playing field for startups and growing companies that feel like “small fish in a giant pond.” She shares the essential moves every founder must make today, including how to sharpen your brand story, position your products strategically, secure a line of credit before you need it, and forecast with clarity in a shifting economy.Whether you're launching a business, scaling an existing one, or fighting to stay competitive in a monopolized industry, Julie delivers actionable advice you can use immediately.You'll learn:·The biggest barriers small and women-owned businesses face today· How to build a brand that stands out in saturated markets· Why access to capital and realistic forecasting are non-negotiables· Key steps to launching new products with confidence· How to rethink your business strategy so you can compete with industry giantsIf you're ready to stop swimming upstream and start gaining ground, this episode will give you the insight and strategic muscle to move forward with power and precision.Tune in to Women Road Warriors with Shelley Johnson and Kathy Tuccaro— where we power women on the road to success.https://maydayagency.co/womenroadwarriors.comwww.womenspowernetwork.net#SmallBusinessTips #MarketingStrategy #BrandStrategy #StartupLife #WomenOwnedBusiness #BusinessStrategy #CompeteWithGiants #JulieMatzen #MayDayAgency #ShelleyJohnson #ShelleyMJohnson #KathyTuccaro #WomenRoadWarriors

Why is underwriting small businesses so much harder than underwriting individuals? In this episode of The Lending Link, host Nathan George sits down with Michael LaSala from Baselayer to unpack one of the most persistent challenges in small business lending: verifying identity when businesses do not fit clean, predictable profiles.They discuss why matching business names, owners, and entities is much more complicated than verifying consumers. Fragmented data, thin files, and unstructured information make things harder for lenders, leading to more risk and manual reviews. Michael explains how lenders can use AI to organize messy data, identify useful behavioral signals, and better distinguish real businesses from fraud.They also talk about how automation speeds up decisions, helps more applicants finish the process, and lets underwriting teams focus on more important tasks. The conversation looks ahead to new trends like Know Your Agent and more applications, and to what lenders should do as AI continues to change small-business onboarding and credit decisions.

Text me your questions. If you are interested in working together, please include your email address. The system doesn't let me respond. Thanks!Some metrics matter more to your marketing than others. Listen to today's podcast to find out which ones you need to pay attention to and use to make decisions. Your online marketing strategy should be focused on the parts of the sales funnel that matter the most to your business - visibility/traffic, leads, and conversions if you want your business to grow. If you're an entrepreneur looking to grow, I'm here to help you make sense of your marketing.  Support the showRegister now for the free SEO class and find out the secrets to being found, generating leads, and making money from Google and in AI Search like ChatGPT. https://www.etchedmarketing.com/registration-seo-class My free resources, including the Beginner's step-by-step SEO Guide and my free class, are available here. https://www.etchedmarketing.com/freebies Learn more about 1:1 Elite Marketing Coaching, where we work together for 3 months on your business. I'll help you make more money. https://www.etchedmarketing.com/marketing-coaching Join me in Simple SEO Content, my complete SEO and Content Marketing course that teaches you what to do step-by-step. It walks you through the entire process. (complete course)https://www.etchedmarketing.com/yes Join Simple Podcast SEO and learn how to grow your show quickly and easily in the self-study podcast SEO program. https://www.etchedmarketing.com/enroll My favorite marketing tools (affiliate links) Podcast recording and editing - Descript Podcast hosting - Buzzsprout Email Marketing - Active Campaign ...

Your culture isn’t just a poster on the wall—it’s your most powerful tool for attracting the right people, making confident decisions, and building a business that lasts. In this episode, Stacey continues the Community Capital series by exploring the power of identifying, communicating, and living your core values. From improving staff retention to making tough calls with clarity and confidence, she shares how culture can be your ultimate competitive advantage. You’ll learn: ✨ How aligning on values can reduce staff turnover by up to 28%✨ The difference between having values written down vs. lived out✨ Why empowering your team (even when it’s messy) leads to growth✨ How culture clarity simplifies decision-making, hiring, and customer alignment✨ Real-life examples of values-based leadership in action at Port Macquarie Performing Arts Plus, Stacey shares why giving your team ownership of your culture is just as important as creating it—and how doing so transforms jobs into careers with purpose.

If you're a brick-and-mortar business owner who avoids credit cards, feels unsure about financing, or worries about taking on debt — this episode is going to challenge (and empower) you in the best way.Today on the podcast, I'm joined by Gerri Detweiler, a nationally recognized credit and financing expert with nearly 30 years of experience helping business owners understand their options, protect their credit, and fund their growth wisely.In our conversation, we break down:The biggest myth about business credit that holds owners backThe true difference between personal credit vs. business creditWhen a business owner should stop relying only on personal creditWhere brick-and-mortar businesses most often make costly credit mistakes with leases, equipment, and hiringHow to determine if financing is a smart growth move — or a risky oneSurprising financing options many small business owners overlookAnd the systems every brick-and-mortar business should have in place before they ever need fundingWe also dive into the role of charge cards (business credit cards) in building strong business credit — even for owners who are afraid of debt — and how to use platforms like Nav to understand your credit profile and funding options before you ever apply.By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with: ✔ A clearer understanding of how business credit actually works ✔ More confidence around financing decisions ✔ And practical next steps to protect and strengthen your business financiallyIf you're building a local business and want long-term stability, this conversation is essential listening.A little about our guest: Gerri Detweiler is a nationally recognized credit and financing expert with nearly 30 years of experience. As a consultant for Nav, she develops programs and content to help small business owners build credit, track cash flow, and understand financing options. She has written six books and her work has appeared in Yahoo!, MSN Money, ABCNews.com, CBSNews.com, NBCNews.com, The Today Show, and more. Gerri has been interviewed for over 4,500 news stories, featured in The New York Times, USA Today, and Reader's Digest, and appeared on Fox Business, CNN, and other national programs. She is also a frequent speaker at business conferences, works closely with SCORE and Small Business Development Centers, and has testified before Congress as an advocate for credit protections.SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:Website: www.gerridetweiler.com LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerridetweiler Instagram:@navsmb Enjoy this episode and make sure you check out the referral page of my website to grab the all year long deals that they offer!Love today's podcast?

In this power-packed conversation, Eric sits down with Shawn Kingsberry, VP of Cybersecurity & Treasury Account Executive at SAIC, one of the largest integrators in federal contracting. Sean explains exactly when small businesses should approach primes, how their small business intake process works, and what capabilities large primes are actively looking to partner with right now — especially around cybersecurity, AI, and innovative tech solutions. He breaks down how SAIC selects partners, what small firms often lack when approaching primes, and how to stand out in a crowded environment by bringing real insight and problem awareness from within agencies. If you want to get into SAIC's ecosystem, start here. Key Takeaways: • Do your homework — know SAIC's work & come prepared with capabilities + value. • Cyber, AI, automation & agentic AI solutions are actively needed — bring new ideas. • Relationships + insights matter — if you know agency pain points, you have leverage. Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/  Watch the full Youtube episode here: https://youtu.be/3VdqtfH0ivw 

Episode Title:  Episode Summary: In this episode, Michael welcomes Megan Bennett, a 23-year veteran in public relations, to discuss how authentic storytelling continues to outperform traditional advertising and paid promotions. Megan shares insights from her boutique agency's work across the wellness, beauty, health, lifestyle, and technology sectors. Together, they explore why PR remains one of the most authentic and trusted marketing methods in today's media landscape. Podcast Growth and PR Strategies Michael reflects on the evolution and growth of the Breakfast Leadership Show, discussing ways to further impact his audience. Megan explains her approach to uncovering compelling brand narratives and unique angles that resonate with media outlets. The two agree that the secret to great PR lies in finding the deeper story that differentiates a brand and connects emotionally with its audience. Crafting Effective PR Pitches Megan shares actionable strategies for crafting standout pitches in a crowded media space. She emphasizes the need to go beyond generic press releases and to develop unique, intriguing storylines that invite curiosity. Michael and Megan discuss how these approaches can lead to broader media coverage and syndication, helping brands gain meaningful visibility. PR Lessons from the Pandemic Reflecting on the challenges of the COVID-19 era, Megan explains how her virtual PR agency adapted to rapid change by offering flexible contracts and reduced fees. Despite global uncertainty, she saw increased demand from consumer product and wellness clients who were pivoting to meet home-based needs. Michael and Megan highlight the power of adaptability, creativity, and resilience in maintaining business continuity during crises. Remote Work and Productivity Insights The conversation turns to remote work culture. Megan shares her experience managing growing workloads in a virtual environment, while Michael notes that many businesses underestimated the productivity of remote teams. They discuss how some companies thrived by anticipating market rebounds, underscoring the value of strategic foresight and maintaining momentum during challenging times. AI's Role in PR and Media Relations Michael and Megan explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping public relations. Megan discusses using tools like ChatGPT to assist with research, brainstorming, and media contact discovery. Both emphasize that while AI can enhance efficiency, it cannot replace the human relationships and intuition that define great PR. They agree that integrating AI thoughtfully can amplify storytelling while preserving authenticity. Key Takeaway: Authentic PR is not just about getting attention; it's about telling stories that matter. By combining traditional relationship-driven strategies with emerging technologies, brands can navigate today's complex media environment with integrity, creativity, and impact. Learn more at: BreakfastLeadership.com Listen to more episodes: The Breakfast Leadership Show Podcast Related reads: Workplace Culture and Burnout Proof   Megan Bennett is the CEO of national boutique PR agency Light Years Ahead dedicated to helping businesses, especially small entrepreneurs, build their images, often from scratch. Megan is known in the industry as a fearless and relentless champion of her clients, one who catapulted a small Kansas City company to a quarter-million-dollar upswing in sales after getting them featured on foodandwine.com.  But that's just the tip of the iceberg!  She has plenty of similar stories to tell, but best of all, she's here to provide your listeners with plenty of insights and actionable tips to use now, even if they can't afford to hire an outside PR company.

Health Reimbursement Arrangements and AI's Economic Potential: Colleague Gene Marks advocates for Health Reimbursement Arrangements, noting they allow small businesses to control costs while employees buy their own insurance tax-free, also discussing AI's potential to double economic growth and advising businesses to ignore doomsday predictions and embrace tools that enhance productivity and daily life. 1964

PREVIEW — Gene Marks — Artificial Intelligence as Workforce Enhancement Tool. Marks, a small business columnist who has traveled extensively across the United States consulting with business associations, addresses the pervasive worker anxiety that artificial intelligence will systematically replace human employment and eliminate career opportunities. Marks provides a 50-word summary: Marks emphasizes that AI should be viewed as a "supplement" and productivity tool rather than employment replacement. He advises workers to ignore catastrophic job loss predictions and instead focus on leveraging technology to accelerate task completion. The best employees will "lean into" these tools, using AI to perform work of multiple people, thereby increasing employer value and securing superior job stability. Marks argues that workers adopting AI as a "power drill"—amplifying rather than replacing carpentry skills—will outcompete those refusing to integrate automation, thereby securing better employment prospects and wage growth relative to colleagues resisting technological adaptation and maintaining analog work methodologies incompatible with productivity expectations.