Podcasts about Small business

In this episode of the Shift AI Podcast, LaSean Smith, Product and Growth Lead at Google Cloud, joins host Boaz Ashkenazy for a wide-ranging conversation on how systems thinking and agentic AI are reshaping the way individuals, small businesses, and enterprises operate.LaSean shares a career journey that spans Microsoft HoloLens, Amazon, a successful startup exit, and now Google — plus a portfolio of small businesses that have served as his real-world AI lab. From a salad shop in Renton to a pre-construction development business in Seattle, he's applied workflow design and agent automation to solve practical problems long before it was fashionable.The conversation digs deep into how to actually build effective AI agents — not by prompting a chatbot, but by thinking in workflows first, identifying where reasoning actually needs to happen, and writing skills that make agents fast, reliable, and token-efficient. LaSean explains the "parcel grader" agent he built for his construction business, why he starts every agent build in a chat interface before moving to CLI, and how the McDonald's SOP model is the right mental framework for getting great output from AI.Boaz and LaSean also discuss the barbell economy that AI is creating — where small players and large enterprises both gain leverage while the middle gets squeezed — why Microsoft's Copilot strategy missed the point, how to think about agent security and identity, and why healthy organizational culture is the actual prerequisite for successful AI adoption.The episode closes with a reflection on what "always changing" really means as a mindset, and why building resilience and systems thinking skills now is the most important career investment anyone can make.This episode is essential listening for entrepreneurs, operators, and anyone using or thinking about deploying AI agents in their work.---Chapters[00:00] Episode 100 and LaSean's First Jobs[03:30] From Microsoft HoloLens to Amazon to Google: LaSean's Career Path[08:00] What LaSean Does at Google Cloud Today[11:00] The Entrepreneurial Side: Small Businesses as an AI Lab[16:00] The Barbell Economy: Why the Middle Is Being Squeezed[20:00] Building the Parcel Grader Agent for Pre-Construction[25:00] How to Write Better Skills: Start in Chat, Not CLI[30:00] Workflow Thinking vs. Department Thinking[35:00] Why Google Is Generating 75% of Its Code with AI[38:00] The McDonald's SOP Model for Agent Design[42:00] Agent Security for Individuals and Small Businesses[47:00] Enterprise AI: Governance, Trust, and Organizational Design[52:00] The Two-Word Future of Work: Always Changing---Connect with LaSean SmithLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laseansmith/Connect with Boaz AshkenazyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boazashkenazy/Email: info@shiftai.fm

We're back after an unplanned 2 week break, catching up on travel, a full home store overhaul, and why online selling looked easy until we had to learn e-commerce for real. We talk trends, what's changing in shopping and customer experience, and the little things that randomly get under our skin.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 @Keepinupwithstevenand 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 

In this episode, Gillian Perkins breaks down her real-world experience trying over a dozen different online business models—sharing what worked, what didn't, and which ones are actually worth your time today.From affiliate marketing and dropshipping to courses, memberships, and YouTube, she walks through the pros, cons, and earning potential of each model based on years of hands-on experience—including multiple seven-figure successes and a few costly failures.As you listen, you'll gain clarity on which business models are best for beginners, which ones scale, and how to choose the right path based on your strengths, goals, and personality.Ready to finally turn your business idea into real sales? Our 8-week accelerator program Validate helps students launch and earn their first revenue, and we're gearing up to run it again this spring! Put your name on the waitlist to be the first to know when enrollment opens: https://gillianperkins.com/validateFREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:The $100K Method Podcast Series: https://www.gillianperkins.com/the-100k-methodGrab our free course, Small Business 101: https://www.gillianperkins.com/101Write 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: @GillianZPerkinsTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: Businesses I've Tried (Wins & Failures)01:27 Affiliate Marketing (Pros, Cons, Earnings)04:01 Coaching (High Income, Low Scalability)06:40 Etsy (Creative but Competitive)07:56 Dropshipping (Time-Intensive & Risky)09:02 Courses (Scalable & Highly Profitable)10:50 Memberships (Recurring Revenue Model)13:17 Validate Program Mention16:02 Print on Demand (Flexible but Quality Matters)18:19 Freelancing (Hard to Differentiate)20:02 Agencies (Scalable but Not for Everyone)21:37 Shopify Stores (Powerful but Requires Marketing)23:31 Blogging (SEO-Driven & Competitive)26:02 YouTube (Best Growth & Revenue Driver)27:53 Podcasting (Indirect Monetization)29:18 Which Online Business Should You Start? 

Hey MTGA fans, we're excited for you to meet a good friend of ours, olease give it a listen! Mark Wille shares his journey from childhood in construction to becoming a leader in building science and education. Discover his insights on trades, education, leadership, and his innovative children's book series that aims to inspire the next generation of builders.Key TopicsJourney from childhood in construction to industry leaderThe importance of trades and vocational educationInnovative approaches to inspiring youth in constructionBuilding science and energy efficiency advancementsLeadership, mentorship, and community impactText the guys your ideas & feedback! Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

The doom and gloom narrative about AI and small business is wrong.For a while now I've been sitting with two feelings about AI at the same time. Genuine excitement about what it makes possible. And a quiet, nagging dread about what it all actually means. The two camps out there - AI destroys everything, or AI sets us all free to float around painting watercolours - haven't helped. Neither one feels right.So when I heard Daniel Priestley's take on Diary of a CEO, it was the first time I'd heard a version of the future I could actually get excited about. Not because it's all rosy. Because it's logical.If you've been quietly uneasy about where AI leaves you as a coach or course creator - this episode is for you.I'm sharing my take on the perspective that changed how I see this whole thing: what the economic landscape actually looks like as AI scales, where the real opportunity sits, and why the coaches and course creators building lean, automated, specific businesses right now might be in the most powerful position of anyone.This might be the most hopeful thing I've recorded in a while.Daniel Priestley's full Diary of a CEO interview is also worth your time

What if your marketing problem has almost nothing to do with algorithms, social media, or even consistency - at all?In this surprisingly deep and insightful conversation, I asked content strategist and Content Queen founder Mariah MacInnes  to unpack why so many practice owners struggle with marketing — especially healing arts professionals who care so much about helping people, but get super squirmy when it comes to being seen themselves!

Rising costs. Less time. More pressure to move faster and smarter. I'm joined by Daymond John of Shark Tank to break down how entrepreneurs are actually using AI in a practical way—cutting down on manual work, gaining real-time insight, and simplifying how they operate. Because right now, growth isn't about doing more—it's about doing it smarter. We also talk about why time is your most valuable asset, how real-time data is changing decision-making, and how platforms like Intuit Enterprise Suite are helping business owners stay ahead. Follow Daymond John:@sharktankabc@thesharkgroup @fubu

Government contracts can pay 2.5x more than residential jobs, yet many service businesses overlook them entirely. In this episode of Masters of Home Service, host Adam Sylvester sits down with Anatoly Nazarov, owner of N&P Cleaners, to unpack how small businesses can break into government contracting and start winning profitable bids. From finding bids to understanding RFPs, Anatoly shares what contractors need to know before getting started. Show Notes: [00:26] Where can small businesses find government contracts? [01:07] RFQs and mandatory bid meetings  [01:50] Inside a 100-page government RFP packet [03:38] How does government contract bidding work? [04:32] How long does it take to win a government contract? [05:07] Government contracts vs commercial jobs [06:27] How long do government contracts last? [07:47] The cash flow delay behind government contracts [08:40] How Anatoly and his wife built a woman-owned cleaning business [10:08] Can government contracts become passive income? [11:59] Common mistakes new government contractors make [12:43] How government contractors cover payroll  New to Jobber? Masters of Home Service listeners can claim an exclusive discount for Jobber at https://bit.ly/4olKiNR

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Google has made a couple of big announcements recently, and they could impact your small business SEO strategy. Let's chat about what's happening, what they're changing, and what they're saying you need to do to remain visible online. First up, Google released its first official guidance on AI optimization. They've also said you don't need to say AEO or GEO; in their eyes, it's all just SEO. You can read their official guidance here - https://developers.google.com/search/docs/fundamentals/ai-optimization-guideSecond, they're changing the search experience, and most queries will be answered by AI, not via a list of links on the search results page like we're used to. Finally, what does this mean for your small business? It means you need to make sure you're doing SEO, you've adjusted your content strategy to focus on what they call non-commodity content, and you're following SEO best practices to keep your business visible in this new online search experience. If you're already in Simple SEO Content or working with me 1:1, you're fine, everything we're doing is correct and is in alignment with the new guidance. If you're still trying to do this on your own, now is the time to start working together. Join me in Simple SEO Content or work with me one-on-one, and I'll guide you through what you need to do to remain visible so you can generate leads and make money.  Support the showRegister now for the free SEO class - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/registration-seo-class  My free resources are here- https://www.etchedmarketing.com/freebies  Want to work with me 1:1? https://www.etchedmarketing.com/marketing-consulting   Join me in Simple SEO Content -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 - DescriptPodcast hosting - BuzzsproutEmail Marketing - Active CampaignMarketing Website Analytics - Clicky SEO Tool - Ubersuggest     Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Ask it here -  https://forms.gle/Fbrqpmss6gxUnaMj7

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Tiffany BusseyTitle: Director, Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC)Dr. Tiffany Bussey discusses how the Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center works to scale Black- and Brown-owned businesses, close the racial wealth gap, and intentionally connect entrepreneurs and workers to capital, contracts, and emerging industries, particularly in sustainability. Purpose of the Interview The interview serves to: Educate listeners about the systemic barriers facing Black entrepreneurs beyond access to capital. Highlight practical solutions—programs, partnerships, and ecosystems—that create real economic outcomes. Shift mindsets around entrepreneurship, risk, and opportunity, especially in underserved communities. Expose listeners to emerging, high-growth industries (e.g., sustainability, EVs, renewable energy) instead of oversaturated traditional businesses. Promote community-based economic ecosystems, particularly the collaboration between Morehouse, Goodwill, and corporate partners. Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Entrepreneurship as a Tool for Closing the Wealth Gap Dr. Bussey positions entrepreneurship and business ownership as one of the most effective ways to generate long-term wealth in Black communities. The Center has supported 400+ scalable, mid-sized businesses, resulting in: 850+ jobs created $34M+ in new capital accessed $82M+ in new revenue generated Key insight: The problem isn’t a lack of capable Black businesses—it’s visibility, access, and opportunity. 2. “Access to Opportunity” Matters as Much as Capital While access to capital dominates the conversation, Dr. Bussey emphasizes access to contracts and decision-makers. MIEC programs are designed with opportunity partners (large corporations, general contractors, primes) so participants gain: Exposure to real contracts Understanding of supply chains Direct relationships with decision-makers Takeaway: Capital without revenue and customers won’t sustain a business. 3. The Three C’s of Business Growth Dr. Bussey outlines MIEC’s core framework: Capital – Funding and financial resources Connections – Two-way, relationship-based networks Contracts – Revenue-generating opportunities She stresses that connections only matter if relationships are mutual—it’s not enough to “know someone” unless they also understand your value. 4. Breaking Stereotypes About Black-Owned Businesses Dr. Bussey addresses harmful narratives around skill, readiness, and qualifications. She highlights intentional strategies to: Prepare businesses before opportunities arise Align training and recruitment with future industries Counter biases through performance, scale, and visibility Key idea: Preparation plus access dismantles bias. 5. Sustainability = One of the Largest Economic Opportunities Dr. Bussey reframes sustainability as an economic opportunity, not just an environmental issue: Electric Vehicles: ~$163B industry Green Construction: ~$324B industry Renewable Energy: ~$952B industry Sustainable Agriculture: ~$20B industry She urges listeners to stop defaulting to oversaturated businesses (e.g., nightclubs) and instead pursue industries that are expanding rapidly and globally. 6. Workforce Development + Business Development Must Align Goodwill provides free job training, certifications, and even stipends for individuals. Morehouse trains businesses that can hire those workers, creating a full economic loop. This ecosystem addresses two major barriers simultaneously: Human capital Business readiness Takeaway: Economic equity requires aligned systems, not isolated programs. 7. Entrepreneurship Is Rewarding—but Not Romantic Dr. Bussey demystifies entrepreneurship: It’s high-risk, exhausting, and statistically likely to fail early. Failure is part of the process, but historical and financial realities make risk harder for Black entrepreneurs. Ownership remains critical despite these challenges. Key message: Entrepreneurship is powerful, but it must be supported intentionally. Notable Quotes “Entrepreneurship and small businesses are one of the pathways to closing the racial income inequality gap.” “We don’t just provide technical assistance for technical assistance’s sake—this is about creating real opportunity.” “Capital dominates the conversation, but contracts are equally important.” “People don’t buy products or services. They buy solutions.” “We have to stop thinking only about what we feel we have access to.” “Sustainability is not one industry—it’s multiple trillion-dollar opportunities.” “Entrepreneurship is the most rewarding and the most fatiguing thing you’ll ever do.” Overall Impact The interview functions as both a masterclass and a call to action: For entrepreneurs: Think bigger, pursue scalable industries, and prepare for opportunity. For communities: Build ecosystems, not silos. For institutions and corporations: Inclusion requires intentional design. Dr. Tiffany Bussey presents a practical, data-backed roadmap for inclusive economic development—centered on ownership, access, and readiness. #STRAW #SHMS #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Tiffany BusseyTitle: Director, Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC)Dr. Tiffany Bussey discusses how the Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center works to scale Black- and Brown-owned businesses, close the racial wealth gap, and intentionally connect entrepreneurs and workers to capital, contracts, and emerging industries, particularly in sustainability. Purpose of the Interview The interview serves to: Educate listeners about the systemic barriers facing Black entrepreneurs beyond access to capital. Highlight practical solutions—programs, partnerships, and ecosystems—that create real economic outcomes. Shift mindsets around entrepreneurship, risk, and opportunity, especially in underserved communities. Expose listeners to emerging, high-growth industries (e.g., sustainability, EVs, renewable energy) instead of oversaturated traditional businesses. Promote community-based economic ecosystems, particularly the collaboration between Morehouse, Goodwill, and corporate partners. Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Entrepreneurship as a Tool for Closing the Wealth Gap Dr. Bussey positions entrepreneurship and business ownership as one of the most effective ways to generate long-term wealth in Black communities. The Center has supported 400+ scalable, mid-sized businesses, resulting in: 850+ jobs created $34M+ in new capital accessed $82M+ in new revenue generated Key insight: The problem isn’t a lack of capable Black businesses—it’s visibility, access, and opportunity. 2. “Access to Opportunity” Matters as Much as Capital While access to capital dominates the conversation, Dr. Bussey emphasizes access to contracts and decision-makers. MIEC programs are designed with opportunity partners (large corporations, general contractors, primes) so participants gain: Exposure to real contracts Understanding of supply chains Direct relationships with decision-makers Takeaway: Capital without revenue and customers won’t sustain a business. 3. The Three C’s of Business Growth Dr. Bussey outlines MIEC’s core framework: Capital – Funding and financial resources Connections – Two-way, relationship-based networks Contracts – Revenue-generating opportunities She stresses that connections only matter if relationships are mutual—it’s not enough to “know someone” unless they also understand your value. 4. Breaking Stereotypes About Black-Owned Businesses Dr. Bussey addresses harmful narratives around skill, readiness, and qualifications. She highlights intentional strategies to: Prepare businesses before opportunities arise Align training and recruitment with future industries Counter biases through performance, scale, and visibility Key idea: Preparation plus access dismantles bias. 5. Sustainability = One of the Largest Economic Opportunities Dr. Bussey reframes sustainability as an economic opportunity, not just an environmental issue: Electric Vehicles: ~$163B industry Green Construction: ~$324B industry Renewable Energy: ~$952B industry Sustainable Agriculture: ~$20B industry She urges listeners to stop defaulting to oversaturated businesses (e.g., nightclubs) and instead pursue industries that are expanding rapidly and globally. 6. Workforce Development + Business Development Must Align Goodwill provides free job training, certifications, and even stipends for individuals. Morehouse trains businesses that can hire those workers, creating a full economic loop. This ecosystem addresses two major barriers simultaneously: Human capital Business readiness Takeaway: Economic equity requires aligned systems, not isolated programs. 7. Entrepreneurship Is Rewarding—but Not Romantic Dr. Bussey demystifies entrepreneurship: It’s high-risk, exhausting, and statistically likely to fail early. Failure is part of the process, but historical and financial realities make risk harder for Black entrepreneurs. Ownership remains critical despite these challenges. Key message: Entrepreneurship is powerful, but it must be supported intentionally. Notable Quotes “Entrepreneurship and small businesses are one of the pathways to closing the racial income inequality gap.” “We don’t just provide technical assistance for technical assistance’s sake—this is about creating real opportunity.” “Capital dominates the conversation, but contracts are equally important.” “People don’t buy products or services. They buy solutions.” “We have to stop thinking only about what we feel we have access to.” “Sustainability is not one industry—it’s multiple trillion-dollar opportunities.” “Entrepreneurship is the most rewarding and the most fatiguing thing you’ll ever do.” Overall Impact The interview functions as both a masterclass and a call to action: For entrepreneurs: Think bigger, pursue scalable industries, and prepare for opportunity. For communities: Build ecosystems, not silos. For institutions and corporations: Inclusion requires intentional design. Dr. Tiffany Bussey presents a practical, data-backed roadmap for inclusive economic development—centered on ownership, access, and readiness. #STRAW #SHMS #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Tiffany BusseyTitle: Director, Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC)Dr. Tiffany Bussey discusses how the Morehouse Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center works to scale Black- and Brown-owned businesses, close the racial wealth gap, and intentionally connect entrepreneurs and workers to capital, contracts, and emerging industries, particularly in sustainability. Purpose of the Interview The interview serves to: Educate listeners about the systemic barriers facing Black entrepreneurs beyond access to capital. Highlight practical solutions—programs, partnerships, and ecosystems—that create real economic outcomes. Shift mindsets around entrepreneurship, risk, and opportunity, especially in underserved communities. Expose listeners to emerging, high-growth industries (e.g., sustainability, EVs, renewable energy) instead of oversaturated traditional businesses. Promote community-based economic ecosystems, particularly the collaboration between Morehouse, Goodwill, and corporate partners. Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Entrepreneurship as a Tool for Closing the Wealth Gap Dr. Bussey positions entrepreneurship and business ownership as one of the most effective ways to generate long-term wealth in Black communities. The Center has supported 400+ scalable, mid-sized businesses, resulting in: 850+ jobs created $34M+ in new capital accessed $82M+ in new revenue generated Key insight: The problem isn’t a lack of capable Black businesses—it’s visibility, access, and opportunity. 2. “Access to Opportunity” Matters as Much as Capital While access to capital dominates the conversation, Dr. Bussey emphasizes access to contracts and decision-makers. MIEC programs are designed with opportunity partners (large corporations, general contractors, primes) so participants gain: Exposure to real contracts Understanding of supply chains Direct relationships with decision-makers Takeaway: Capital without revenue and customers won’t sustain a business. 3. The Three C’s of Business Growth Dr. Bussey outlines MIEC’s core framework: Capital – Funding and financial resources Connections – Two-way, relationship-based networks Contracts – Revenue-generating opportunities She stresses that connections only matter if relationships are mutual—it’s not enough to “know someone” unless they also understand your value. 4. Breaking Stereotypes About Black-Owned Businesses Dr. Bussey addresses harmful narratives around skill, readiness, and qualifications. She highlights intentional strategies to: Prepare businesses before opportunities arise Align training and recruitment with future industries Counter biases through performance, scale, and visibility Key idea: Preparation plus access dismantles bias. 5. Sustainability = One of the Largest Economic Opportunities Dr. Bussey reframes sustainability as an economic opportunity, not just an environmental issue: Electric Vehicles: ~$163B industry Green Construction: ~$324B industry Renewable Energy: ~$952B industry Sustainable Agriculture: ~$20B industry She urges listeners to stop defaulting to oversaturated businesses (e.g., nightclubs) and instead pursue industries that are expanding rapidly and globally. 6. Workforce Development + Business Development Must Align Goodwill provides free job training, certifications, and even stipends for individuals. Morehouse trains businesses that can hire those workers, creating a full economic loop. This ecosystem addresses two major barriers simultaneously: Human capital Business readiness Takeaway: Economic equity requires aligned systems, not isolated programs. 7. Entrepreneurship Is Rewarding—but Not Romantic Dr. Bussey demystifies entrepreneurship: It’s high-risk, exhausting, and statistically likely to fail early. Failure is part of the process, but historical and financial realities make risk harder for Black entrepreneurs. Ownership remains critical despite these challenges. Key message: Entrepreneurship is powerful, but it must be supported intentionally. Notable Quotes “Entrepreneurship and small businesses are one of the pathways to closing the racial income inequality gap.” “We don’t just provide technical assistance for technical assistance’s sake—this is about creating real opportunity.” “Capital dominates the conversation, but contracts are equally important.” “People don’t buy products or services. They buy solutions.” “We have to stop thinking only about what we feel we have access to.” “Sustainability is not one industry—it’s multiple trillion-dollar opportunities.” “Entrepreneurship is the most rewarding and the most fatiguing thing you’ll ever do.” Overall Impact The interview functions as both a masterclass and a call to action: For entrepreneurs: Think bigger, pursue scalable industries, and prepare for opportunity. For communities: Build ecosystems, not silos. For institutions and corporations: Inclusion requires intentional design. Dr. Tiffany Bussey presents a practical, data-backed roadmap for inclusive economic development—centered on ownership, access, and readiness. #STRAW #SHMS #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why are most businesses failing at marketing right now?They fail because of the SAME 5 mistakes… and in this video I break down exactly how to fix them before they destroy your business growth.If you feel stuck creating content, running ads, generating leads, or getting consistent sales online, this training will help you simplify your marketing strategy and focus on what actually works.If you want:• More leads• Better conversions• Stronger marketing• More visibility online• A real strategy that works…this training is for you.A business without a marketing strategy is just guessing.Posting random content, running random ads, and hoping for sales is NOT a system. That's why so many businesses stay stuck struggling to grow online.Marketing is not about luck, it's about strategy, consistency, visibility, and understanding exactly who you are trying to help.#entrepreneurship #leadgeneration #business #marketingstrategy #leadgeneration #onlinebusiness #digitalmarketing #businessgrowth---------------About Manuel Suarez:Manuel Suarez, known as the Marketing Ninja and a best-selling author of Marketing Magic, leads Attention Grabbing Media (AGM), a marketing agency honored three times on the Inc 5000 list. With a team of over 120, AGM specializes in turning attention into profit for a wide range of brands. In 2023 alone, brands managed by AGM exceeded 250 million USD in revenue.Manuel is also the co-founder of NaturalSlim, a self-funded high-9-figure brand. He has helped elevate thousands of businesses across multiple industries and has directed marketing campaigns for industry leaders such as Grant Cardone and Daymond John.He is also responsible for building and scaling one of the largest health-focused YouTube channels in the U.S., MetabolismoTV, which alone has over 10.7 million subscribers. Over the past seven years, Manuel's strategies have generated more than 8 billion views, 5 million leads, and over 500 million USD in tracked revenue across digital platforms.Follow Manuel Suarez on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theninjamarketer/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrmanuelsuarez/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mrmanuelsuarezX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/MrManuelSuarezLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmanuelsuarez/Learn More About AGM:Visit our website: https://www.agmagency.comNeed Help with Your Marketing?Talk to a Ninja: https://www.talktoaninja.comCheck Out Manuel's Book, a #1 Seller on Amazon:Marketing Magic by Manuel Suarez: https://a.co/d/gbwHKSf

SummaryInnovation isn't a lightning bolt, it's a process. That's the message threaded throughout the latest episode of the Startup Junkies podcast, where Eva Fast, director of the University of Arkansas MSPI program, joined hosts Daniel Koonce and Caleb Talley for a deep dive into product innovation, entrepreneurial mindsets, and the realities behind those famed “aha” moments.Drawing from her upbringing in Kenya and extensive academic career, Eva breaks the myth that innovation is a singular, sudden event. Instead, she describes it as a gradual journey shaped by diverse perspectives and continuous exposure to new ideas. Her research, inspired by Steven Johnson's "Where Good Ideas Come From," reveals that creativity blossoms over time and thrives within vibrant networks.Listeners will hear how the MSPI program acts as a bridge, connecting technical, business, and human elements to equip students for both startup ventures and corporate innovation roles. Whether you're a hands-on entrepreneur or an aspiring intrapreneur, the program's structure, mentorship, and hands-on challenges offer room for all innovation styles.Eva also spotlights the rising influence of AI, sharing how tools are accelerating everything from MVP launches to capstone projects. The conversation closes with practical advice: be curious, take action, and never underestimate the value of diverse experiences. For those craving real perspectives on what it takes to move from idea to impact, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in today!Show Notes(00:00) Eva's Childhood in Kenya(05:12) Building Student Confidence and Skills(08:16) Misconceptions About Innovation Process(13:05) Discussing MVP Deployment Strategies(15:37) Mentorship and Networking Benefits(19:30) Innovative Teaching Methods(25:36) Taking Action Through EntrepreneurshipLinksDaniel KoonceCaleb TalleyStartup JunkieStartup Junkie YouTubeEva FastMaster of Science in Product Innovation (MSPI) at University of Arkansas

Government contracting tools can either accelerate your business or waste hours of your week clicking between SAM.gov, FPDS, USAspending, and Google Sheets. In this episode Eric Coffie breaks down why most small business contractors are still piecing together free platforms when an all in one system already exists. If you want to know what tools you should be using to grow your federal business, this conversation lays out the new direction and what it means for you. Why piecing together SAM.gov, FPDS, USAspending, and GSA Calc is slowing down your contract pipeline and costing you bids How the Market Intelligence platform delivers daily briefings tied to your NAICS codes and custom keywords The Rule of Two strategy and how aggregated member data can flip full and open opportunities into set asides Why moving from a training company to a SaaS platform changes how small businesses access education and tools How replacing multi step research with one login frees you up to actually pursue and win contracts EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Welcome to the Federal Help Center podcast 0:24 - New alert system briefing tool and dashboard announcement 1:00 - Setting up profiles NAICS codes and keywords 1:53 - Pivoting from training company to SaaS platform 2:22 - Rule of two strategy for flipping set asides 3:00 - Subscription model and access to the platform 6:39 - YouTube content shifting to tool based training 7:58 - One login replaces FPDS pivot tables and sheets Mindy gives you the federal opportunities, agency signals, recompete intel, and pursuit briefs that tell you not just what contracts exist, but which ones to chase and how to win them. Sign up for free Daily Alerts and get opportunities delivered to your inbox before the day starts.

Business streakers are fast operators who vanish just before they get the project ball across the finish line. These enthusiastic beginners magically disappear at critical times. As a result, customer projects yawn past expected completion dates, and the streaker fails to answer crucial phone calls, emails, text messages, or knocks on the door. Poof! Gone! Nowhere to be found! Then all of a sudden, like an unexpected sand storm, the streaker reappears to frantically bring the project across the finish line with a flurry of issues, mistakes and excuses. If you are a company leader, we encourage you to locate your streakers, and then STOP them before they ruin your company. Retrain them if possible, or remove them. This is why customers detest business streakers. Customers want even-keeled project management that avoids streaky service hampered by problems!Support the show

Ryan Pineda and cohost Brian Davila interview Brad Sugars about scaling businesses from startup to billion-dollar enterprises, covering systems, leadership, acquisitions, AI, franchising, exits, and the mindset shifts required at every stage of growth.⁣⁣Connect with Brad - https://www.instagram.com/bradleysugars/ ⁣__________⁣If you want to start your real estate investing business, we'll give you 1:1 coaching, seller leads, software, & everything you need. https://www.wealthyinvestor.com⁣⁣If you're a business owner who wants to get in peak physical shape, we can help! https://www.allproceo.com⁣⁣Join our private mastermind for elite business leaders who golf. https://www.mastermind19.com⁣⁣Join free Bible studies and workshops for Christian business leaders. https://www.tentmakers.us⁣__________⁣Chapters:⁣00:00 - Brad Sugars Introduction⁣02:24 - Hustle Vs Real Business⁣06:03 - Building Global Vision⁣10:10 - Starting Businesses Today⁣13:03 - Replicating Business Models⁣18:01 - Four Scaling Strategies⁣23:23 - Buying Businesses Over Starting⁣29:47 - Why Exits Create Wealth⁣36:20 - From $1M To $1B⁣43:35 - AI And Future Business⁣57:16 - Using AI For Decisions⁣01:05:15 - Thinking Bigger Than Millions⁣01:08:31 - Building Vision-Driven Companies⁣01:10:45 - Writing Billion Dollar Plans⁣01:17:20 - Kill Businesses Faster⁣01:21:42 - Selling Existing Products Better⁣01:27:02 - Franchising And Scaling Faster⁣01:29:55 - Building Businesses Around Life

Small business overhead costs are the silent killer that takes down more government contractors than slow sales ever could. In this episode, West Edwards breaks down exactly how to separate cost of goods from G&A expenses, calculate your real net profit, and spot the moment your overhead starts eating your business alive. If you have ever wondered why your revenue keeps climbing but your bank account does not, this conversation gives you the math to fix it. Learn how to properly split cost of goods sold from general and administrative expenses across roofing, consulting, and service businesses Walk through real dollar examples on a 10 million dollar roofing company and a 1 million dollar consulting firm to see how net profit actually shapes out Discover why your overhead percentage explodes the moment your top line revenue drops and how to plan for it before it sinks you Understand when travel, software, and subcontractor costs belong in cost of goods versus when they belong in overhead Find out why putting yourself on payroll with a consistent paycheck makes you bankable when you go to borrow money for growth EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - AI research assistant Mindy finds federal opportunities 0:38 - Federal Help Center podcast welcome and introduction 1:00 - Cost of goods versus administrative expenses explained clearly 1:57 - Net profit calculation from real revenue numbers 2:53 - Overhead can eat your business alive quickly 3:23 - Overhead percentages for consulting and service firms 6:46 - Revenue drops affect your overhead percentage badly 8:43 - Paying yourself a salary helps secure loans Mindy gives you the federal opportunities, agency signals, recompete intel, and pursuit briefs that tell you not just what contracts exist, but which ones to chase and how to win them. Sign up for free Daily Alerts and get opportunities delivered to your inbox before the day starts.

This week on Paige's Pod, I sat down with Molly and Ray, the founders of Galaray House - a welcoming, contemporary art gallery + modern espresso bar redefining what the gallery experience can feel like. We talk about:how a casual conversation on a boat sparked the idea for Galaray Housecombining coffee culture with fine artwhy traditional galleries can feel intimidatingbuilding a space that feels approachable, warm, and community-drivenbalancing creativity, business, and motherhoodthe emotional side of selling artworksupporting artists beyond just hanging work on wallstrusting your instincts when starting something newthe behind-the-scenes realities of opening a creative businessMolly and Ray share honest stories about starting from scratch, learning the coffee world on the fly, curating their first collection, navigating self-doubt, and building meaningful relationships with both artists and collectors.This conversation felt like a reminder that art doesn't have to feel exclusive or intimidating - it can simply be human, connective, and deeply personal.If you've ever dreamed of starting something creative, building community, or making the art world feel more accessible, this episode is for you. Find Gallery House:

Fewer than 1% of small businesses use press releases as a regular marketing or public relations strategy, even as major corporations continue to rely heavily on media relations to shape public perception and build authority. Meanwhile, approximately 92% of businesses are using social media platforms to increase visibility and brand awareness, according to Entrepreneur. But in a crowded digital marketplace where everyone has a website, LinkedIn page, Facebook profile, and online reviews, the real question becomes: what actually makes your business memorable? On this episode of Let's Have This Conversation, we sit down with Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases, one of the leading press release distribution services helping small businesses, startups, and authors secure national media exposure. With more than 25 years of experience in public relations and media outreach, Mickie has dedicated his career to helping entrepreneurs bridge the gap between their business and the journalists, reporters, and publications that can elevate their credibility. In a world where trust drives buying decisions, Mickie explains why earned media still matters and why being featured in trusted publications can separate your business from competitors who rely solely on social media algorithms. He shares practical insights into how entrepreneurs can use press releases strategically, what journalists are actually looking for, and how authentic storytelling can create long-term authority online. The conversation also explores the changing landscape of public relations, why visibility alone is no longer enough, and how small businesses can leverage media coverage to strengthen trust, improve search presence, and create opportunities that traditional advertising often cannot deliver. Whether you're an entrepreneur, author, speaker, or business owner looking to increase your visibility and credibility, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how effective PR can help you stand out in a marketplace saturated with noise.   For more Information: https://www.ereleases.com/ Discover More: https://www.ereleases.com/plan-2/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Caterina Rando shares guiding principles from her talk at the Sparkle Summit hosted by Kristi Parry and Chris Dyer. Caterina invites listeners to choose to be a “sparkler” who intentionally uplifts everyone they meet, noting that acknowledging others boosts both people's energy. She also encourages women to own their sparkle by eliminating “sparkle zappers” like poor self-care, comparison, worrying what others think, and negative self-talk, and to seek encouragement, community, and a plan when stuck. Don't miss this positive and uplifting episode!

Meghann Butcher built RepSpark, a B2B wholesale e-commerce platform now moving over a billion dollars a year, without a single line of tech on her resume.She grew up in her dad's apparel and footwear business, hanging around the warehouse at five years old. At 27, when her father's order-entry tool started catching on with independent sales reps, he asked if she wanted to run with it. She said yes, and bootstrapped it from there.In this conversation, Meghann and I get into how a psychology and communications major became the product visionary for a software company, why she still leans on empathy over technical skill to lead, and how staying close to customer pain points built a platform now used by nearly 100,000 retailers.We also talk about being a mom of three while running a growing company, building a drama-free culture, and what it actually takes to scale a bootstrapped business on your own terms.Tune in for a real look at building something durable without the usual playbook.

Send us Fan MailJoin us as we explore the world of golf, podcasting, and small business networking with John Ashton, a veteran radio host and golf enthusiast. Discover insights on building trust through golf, podcasting tips, and local culture in Kentucky and Nevada.Those weekend golf guys podcast on SpotifyThose weekend golf guys InstagramShop This Episode

AI can write content. It can design logos, generate scripts, build entire websites in minutes.But here's the one thing it will never be able to do — live your life.In this episode, I'm making the case that your story is the most valuable business asset you own right now. Not your resume. Not your credentials. Your actual journey — the setbacks, the pivots, the moments you didn't know if you were going to make it — that is what the marketplace is hungry for in 2026.I'm sharing my own arc — immigrating from Cameroon, playing three years in the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens, pivoting into corporate America as a Senior Scrum Master, and now building my own business from the ground up — to show you that every chapter of your story contains a lesson someone will pay to learn.If you've been sitting on your story thinking it's not enough, this episode will change how you see yourself.In this episode you'll learn:Why the AI content flood is actually making your authentic voice MORE valuable, not lessThe three story assets you're sitting on and not monetising right nowHow to identify your core transformation and turn it into a productThe four-step framework to go from story to incomeWhy authenticity is the only competitive advantage AI can never take from youYour story is not a side note. It is the product.

"I finally realized I was not paying for a service. I was paying for hope. And hope is not a business strategy."Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! Fair warning — host Dan Irvin is ruffling some feathers in this one. In this solo episode, he takes on one of the most common "shortcuts" speakers chase: the speaker bureau.Dan has personally signed up with about a dozen of them. Paid the fees, built the profiles, sent the demo reels, connected with the reps. Total paid gigs booked across all of them? Zero. Meanwhile, he's doing 40+ events a year using the exact process he teaches at The Speaker Lab. So either he's unbookable — or something about the bureau model is broken. In this episode, he breaks down exactly what bureaus are actually selling, who they actually work for, and what to do instead.You'll hear about:Why the bureau pitch is so appealing — and why it almost never delivers what it promisesThe difference between a booking machine and a listing service (most bureaus are the second one)The four things bureaus won't help you with: positioning, marketing assets, coaching, and actual speaking experienceWhy the speakers who get booked through bureaus are almost always speakers who were already booking themselvesThe bureau is an amplifier, not an engine — and why most speakers have the order completely backwardsDan's personal nine-month bureau experiment: paid the fee, sent everything, got zero leads — and a vague email when he finally asked what they'd done with his profileThe story of a woman who signed with three bureaus, paid onboarding fees, and started wondering if she was even cut out for speaking (she was — the system was the problem)Why the bureau model quietly destroys speaker confidence by making you think you're the problemThe three things that actually get speakers booked: owning your system, working with guides who are in the trenches, and building the wraparound infrastructureWhy the talk is only 15% of the equation — and how bureaus won't touch the other 85%And much, much more!"Stop renting somebody else's process. Build your own. That is where the freedom is. That is where the income is. That is where the calendar full of gigs you actually want comes from."Tried a bureau and hit a wall? It's not you — it's the model. Grab a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment at thespeakerlab.com/SBA and talk with someone who's actively getting booked and paid right now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is your business feeling inflation? Struggling with how to handle it and keep your profit margins? Then today's episode will massively help you! READ MORE HERE

Chris Papin is a multi-talented advisor with a rare blend of qualifications. As a licensed attorney, certified public accountant, and insurance producer, Chris offers a holistic perspective. Holding degrees from the University of Oklahoma, including a CPA designation and a Juris Doctor from Oklahoma City University School of Law, Chris has excelled. Chris's dual expertise enables him to navigate complex financial and legal terrain, ensuring growth and compliance. His commitment to clients and innovative prowess, acknowledged by Thomson Reuters and other accolades, establishes him as a guide for small businesses toward prosperous futures. Connect with Jon Dwoskin: Twitter: @jdwoskin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.dwoskin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejondwoskinexperience/ Website: https://jondwoskin.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondwoskin/ Email: jon@jondwoskin.com Get Jon's Book: The Think Big Movement: Grow your business big. Very Big! Connect with Chris Papin:Website: https://www.papincpa.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrispapin *E - explicit language may be used in this podcast.

What happens when you surround yourself with smart, supportive, growth-minded people who truly want to see you succeed? In this episode, Katie shares a behind-the-scenes look at the impact of the #GetSocialSmart Mastermind and why community, accountability, and practical implementation can completely transform your business. (This is a replay of a webinar we hosted recently!)You'll hear reflections from a returning attendee who doubled her business, completed her 12-month plan, and shared why this experience feels so different from traditional conferences and events. If you've been craving more clarity, connection, and momentum in your business, this episode is for you.Watch this podcast on YouTube here >>Additional links:Learn more about the #GetSocialSmart MastermindJoin the #GetSocialSmart AcademyGrab my free content gridFollow me on Instagram

Go no go decision speed is the single biggest reason small businesses lose federal contracts they should have won. In this episode Ryan Atencio breaks down how to shred a solicitation in 48 hours, why teaming partnerships burn another week you don't have, and the exact reason scatterbrained companies keep watching opportunities expire while their competitors submit. If you're stuck in slow bid cycles during the fiscal year end rush, this is the playbook. How to make a fast bid or no bid decision before three weeks of solicitation time disappears on weekend delays and Monday meetings Why end of fiscal year between June and September is when speed separates winners from companies that watch contracts go to faster competitors The 2 percent gross contract value consultant fee model and why proposals that never cross the finish line kill your income How Ryan's 12 years in 3rd Ranger Battalion and his time as a COR writing PWS and statements of work shape his capture strategy What a squared away one page capability statement actually contains and why outreach to primes and agencies fails without one EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Mindy AI delivers daily federal opportunity briefings 0:29 - Federal Help Center podcast welcome and mission 0:52 - Fiscal year crunch from May through September 1:20 - Speed kills bad bids and saves good ones 2:30 - Why slow go no go decisions cost contracts 3:00 - Two percent consultant fees and finish line proposals 3:30 - Ryan Atencio introduces himself and his consulting model 4:00 - Military background and contracts acquisitions experience 4:50 - Working with medium and large businesses entering federal 5:30 - Strategic capture through sources sought and RFIs 6:00 - Why every business needs a squared away capability statement 7:00 - Building capability statements in Google Slides Mindy gives you the federal opportunities, agency signals, recompete intel, and pursuit briefs that tell you not just what contracts exist, but which ones to chase and how to win them. Sign up for free Daily Alerts and get opportunities delivered to your inbox before the day starts.

Get the GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Our students learn the government contracting skills to :1. Start their own consulting business that can earn up to $400k as a "solopreneur" advising businesses that sell to the government.2. Land high paying sales executive jobs with companies in the public sector.3. Increase government contracting revenue for companies selling to the US government.This week I sat down with Bill Vear, founder of GovConProposals and one of the most experienced federal contractors in our network. Bill's been winning government contracts since 1982 — back when, as he puts it, “the dinosaurs still roamed the Earth and the internet did not exist in contracting.” He started as an Army medic, got out, fell into commercial construction with a friend's brothers, and then climbed his way into the federal space through some of the largest 8(a) environmental and demolition firms in the Northeast — managing multi-million dollar projects at Natick Labs, Weymouth Naval Air Station, Aberdeen Proving Grounds, and the anthrax cleanup at Social Security after 9/11.Today Bill runs his own consulting practice in Florida, mentors small businesses, and recently won a federal construction contract for a former New England Patriots wide receiver running an SDVOSB out of Louisiana. He's also a GovClose graduate and a core member of our Inner Circle — not because he needed the program, but because, as he says, “I'm always learning. I believe in education. I'm a bookworm.”So I put him through something new: The GovClose Gauntlet — 10 rapid-fire questions designed to expose what really wins in government contracting. No fluff, no marketing talk, just a 30-year veteran answering the questions most contractors are too afraid to ask out loud.Here's what he said.0:00 Will AI Replace Government Contracting?1:25 Can AI Win Government Contracts Without You?3:24 Is DOGE Good or Bad for Small Business?4:09 Should All Federal Procurement Go Through GSA?5:00 Will CMMC Hurt Small Business Defense Contracts?5:30 Is the 8(a) Program Still Worth It?6:00 Are WOSB Set-Asides Disappearing?6:27 Why SDVOSB Is the Strongest Set-Aside Right Now7:00 The #1 Move That Wins Federal Contracts8:44 How a Former Army Medic Got Into Government Contracting9:00 The Dumbest Reason a Government Proposal Lost10:00 Why Past Performance Beats Lowest Price13:09 From Boston Construction to Federal Contracts16:00 How Contracts Were Won Before SAM.gov Existed18:30 The 8(a) Subcontracting Trap That Gets Companies Sued20:30 What Is SLED and How Is It Different From Federal?23:50 Is It Easier to Win State or Federal Contracts?25:14 Why You Can't Learn Government Contracting on the Fly26:34 Inside the "Wild West" Days of Government Bidding29:30 Why Following Proposal Instructions Wins Contracts30:54 Compliance Matrix vs. Proposal Templates33:34 When to Walk Away From a Government Contract35:30 Are Win Themes and Color Teams a Myth?37:21 When the Real Proposal Process Actually Starts39:20 Why a Real CRM Beats Salesforce for GovCon42:54 What Happens When the Government Never Sees Your Bid44:48 Why Showing Up Late to a Solicitation Means You Lose45:14 Where to Find Bill Vear Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-vear/

Season 4, Episode 14 of The Front Porch Podcast features Anthony Obiselu, part owner of Yonx Pizza Bar & Co.  Links:Yonx Pizza Bar & Co: WebsiteCity of Melissa: WebsiteMusic: https://www.purple-planet.com

Growth does not get blocked by lack of hustle; it gets blocked by lack of structure. I sit down with Antwon Person, founder of Skillful Brands and a retired U.S. Army senior officer, to talk about what actually helps entrepreneurs move from scattered effort to a real company that can scale. If you have ever felt buried in tasks, unsure what to build next, or stuck at a “growth ceiling,” this conversation gives you a clear path forward.We get practical about the three S's Antoine teaches: structure, systems, and strategy. We talk about why many businesses stall instead of failing, how mentorship and mastermind communities help you break past your current level of knowledge, and why the first six months matter so much for business structure, asset protection, and future financing. If you want business credit or loans later, the foundation you lay early makes a difference.We also dig into modern remote leadership. Antoine shares how he runs a virtual headquarters that feels like a real office, with coworking spaces and meeting and training rooms, so remote teams can collaborate without endless email chains. Then we get into delegation and virtual assistants: when to hire, why a manager can free you up for strategic growth, and how SOPs and a solid onboarding process turn VAs into assets instead of added stress.If you find value here, subscribe, share the episode with a founder friend, and leave a quick review so more entrepreneurs can build with clarity.Learn more at SkillfulBrands.comSend us a messageBuzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEAltogether Domains, Hosting and MoreBringing your business online - domain names, web design, branded email, security, hosting and more.Digital Marketing PlatformContent Creator Machine - The integrated all-in-one online marketing platform.Small Business Legal ServicesYour Small Business Legal Plan can help with any business legal matter.Mens and Womens HatsSince 1972, American Hat Makers has been dedicated to the art of fine hat making.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showWant to be a guest on Tech Diva Biz Talks? Send Audrey Wiggins a message on PodMatch, here: podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/audreywigginsTo work with Audrey schedule a breakthrough/discovery session.

On this episode of the Predictable Revenue Podcast, Collin Stewart sat down once again with SnapBar founder Sam Eitzen, this time to talk about the kind of founder journey that rarely unfolds in a straight line. SnapBar didn't move from one clear business model to the next. It went from physical photo booths to a pandemic-era corporate-gifting business to virtual experiences, and then to the software platform the company is building today. Along the way, the conversation touched on survival, customer demand, timing, founder instinct, and the uncomfortable reality that most pivots only make sense once you're already through them. It's a familiar story for a lot of founders: the market changes, the original plan starts to crack, and the next version of the business has to be figured out in motion. Highlights include: Navigating Business Challenges During the Pandemic (04:25), Innovative Solutions for Small Businesses (08:00), The Shift to Virtual Events (09:58), The Evolution of Snap Bar (13:20), and more... Stay updated with our podcast and the latest insights on Outbound Sales and Go-to-Market Strategies!

Most organizations treat AI adoption as a technology rollout. However, the ones gaining traction treat it as a leadership and culture challenge. In this episode of #shifthappens, Monica French, USA SMB Director at Microsoft, shares what she's hearing directly from small business leaders navigating AI — and why the human side of adoption is where most initiatives either accelerate or stall. Monica draws on frontline conversations with SMB founders, MSP partners, and her own career pivoting from traditional banking to fintech to explain why experiential learning outperforms passive training, why the chief human resource officer (CHRO) belongs at the AI table alongside the chief technology officer (CTO), and how lightweight governance can coexist with early experimentation. She also unpacks the gap between executive ambition and employee readiness — and what leaders can do to close it.

BNPL programs have helped big box retailers boost sales for years... How mom and pop stores can get in on the action as well (at 14:16) --- What is 'biohacking'? The radical theory behind the idea that there's a difference between living longer and living better - or, ideally, doing both (at 20:57) --- What's Happening: Scouting America is all about outdoor adventures, and it's shaping up to be a busy summer for the Black Swamp Area Council (at 43:52)

Government subcontracting is where most small businesses leave millions on the table, and in this episode Eric Coffie breaks down the 8 brutal truths he learned the hard way about working under prime contractors. From going broke in 2015 with a $550 payday loan to closing a $4.2 million subcontract four months later, this is the unfiltered playbook on how subcontracting actually works in the federal market. Here is what you will learn: Why confusing prime contractor rules with subcontractor rules quietly kills deals and how to know which FAR requirements actually apply to you The relationship moves that landed a $4 million subcontract with no money in the bank, no bonding, and no employees on payroll How to frame your value to primes as compliance protection instead of paperwork so you stop getting lowballed at 10K on 600K contracts Why the middleman role is the highest paid position on a federal team when you take real responsibility for scope, schedule, and subs below you Where to actually find program managers and decision makers on military bases, at site visits, prime contractor galas, and even Starbucks near the gate EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Subcontracting truths most small businesses miss 2:00 - Payday loan to 4 million dollar subcontract story 3:19 - Confusing prime rules with subcontract rules 4:38 - Small hinges swing big subcontract doors 6:32 - Paperwork has zero value without compliance 7:57 - Middleman myth and keeping the team together 9:14 - Where you are does not equal who you are 10:11 - Geography can change your title on jobs 11:13 - Leave the house and show up consistently 13:38 - Tough conversations build unbreakable business bonds 15:30 - Picking one lane to start subcontracting in 20:47 - Target program managers not contracting officers 35:44 - Marketing to primes through galas and golf events Market Intelligence gives you the federal opportunities, agency signals, recompete intel, and pursuit briefs that tell you not just what contracts exist, but which ones to chase and how to win them. Sign up for free Daily Alerts and get opportunities delivered to your inbox before the day starts.

Text a question to Victoria!Did you know that you hold a legal responsibility with your website? Have you heard of ADA guidelines, but you don't know what they actually are? How does website accessibility apply to small business owners? Today, Victoria is getting these questions answered by having Paige Griffith on the podcast. Paige Griffith is a small business attorney, the founder of The Legal Paige, and a founding partner of Griffith Suazo Law. Her entire career revolves around educating and supporting small business owners with the legal side of their businesses, so they can protect themselves and grow with confidence.In this episode, Victoria and Paige sit down for the first time in almost 4 years to discuss the legal requirements for websites and ways to make your website more accessible in 2026. They cover actionable items that you can double check on your own website, right along with them.If you've ever avoided the legal side of business because it feels too confusing, this conversation will encourage you to take a step forward. Be sure to grab your iced coffee and your notebook, you'll want to take notes or come back to this one because it's full of legal education.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:The Legal Paige (Legal Contract Template Shop for Business Owners)Griffith Suazo Law (Law Firm for Entrepreneurs)Retainly (SaaS Platform)ADA Compliance ChecklistWebsite Designer ContractTerms and Conditions and Privacy Policy BundleWeb Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)Follow Paige on InstagramFor show notes, head to www.thebrandingbusinessschool.com/thepodcast/Show notes for episodes 1-91 can be found at www.brandwelldesigns.com/thepodcast/Follow BrandWell on Instagram. Follow The Branding Business School on Instagram.Save on your first year of Honeybook using this link! Save 50% off your first year of Flodesk using this link! Get $30 off your first month of Nuuly using this link!Get up to $150 off your first box of Factor Meals using this link!

Earlier this year, HiFi Cookies owner Sean Newsome posted a plea on social media for influencers to better understand the challenges small businesses are facing before reaching out to demand a collab. He's sitting down with Marie Cecile Anderson to elaborate on the problem, tell us how he came to make some of the best cookies in Nashville, and preview a new concert series happening at his Porter Road shop. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 27th episode: Ancient Lore Village If you enjoyed this interview with Supriya Sundaram, the director of growth marketing for TaskRabbit, learn more here.  Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Send us Fan MailFor most small businesses, health insurance is their second or third largest expense. And they usually find out what it's going to cost them two to three weeks before renewal.In this clip from our episode “Why Health Insurance Needs Transparency”, host John Driscoll and Ty Wang, Co-Founder and CEO of Angle Health, break down why unpredictable premium increases make it nearly impossible for small businesses to plan, and why the market has accepted this as normal for far too long.Listen to the full episode here

We are going to flip the tables and talk about customers for one minute. As vendors attempt to provide quality services, questions may arise that need customer input, or direction. The customers can be both invoice-paying customers, or internal associates. Regardless, I have watched many transactions travel through time-wasting, and money-wasting rapids that could have been avoided with expedient, and comprehensive customer feedback. Do you want smooth and timely transactions? Okay, then answer 100% of the questions you are asked, and answer them with punctuality! Quality transactions are usually paid for with the two-sided, customer/vendor coin. Support the show

What separates great entrepreneurs from everyone else is not avoiding failure. It's their ability to get back up and keep trying new things.Grant Hensel started 10 businesses, watched seven fail, scaled one into a 60-person company, shifted from building businesses to buying them, and recently raised nearly $12 million to back entrepreneurs acquiring small businesses.  In this episode of The Opportunity podcast, Grant joins us to share what separated his successful ventures from the failures and the benefits of buying businesses instead of building them from scratch. One of the keys to success for Grant was finding the right people. He explains that many of his own successes came from partnering with operators who were better suited to run the day-to-day business, while he focused on vision, support, and capital allocation. That philosophy now shapes how his fund evaluates acquisition entrepreneurs. We also dig into how he raised the fund itself, why he believes "boring" businesses can be incredible investments, and the warning signs that immediately kill a deal for him. We also discussed AI's impact on SEO agencies and why Grant believes AI is actually creating new opportunities for digital marketing businesses rather than destroying them. If you're interested in buying businesses, raising capital, or building long-term wealth through acquisitions, this episode is packed with practical insights and hard-earned lessons. Topics Discussed in this episode: 04:12 - What separated Grant's successful businesses from the failures  11:26 - Why Grant switched from building businesses to buying them  13:41 - How Grant found his first acquisition  14:30 - How AI is affecting marketing agencies  17:34 - How the first acquisition was structured   20:03 - The benefits of buying vs building a business 23:23 - Ins and outs of raising a fund 30:28 - Why Grant is sceptical of acquisition synergies  39:52 - How Grant evaluates searchers  46:26 - How Grant raised $12 million for acquisitions Mentions:  Empire Flippers Podcasts Empire Flippers Marketplace Create an Empire Flippers account Subscribe to our newsletter Main Street Capital Network Grant's LinkedIn Sit back, grab a coffee, and look behind the scenes of a $12million fund!  

An audience is the #1 thing that will make or break your business's success... but do you have one? If not, check out this early release video (not yet available on YouTube) about the biggest reasons your audience might NOT be growing: https://gillianperkins.com/early-access/ In today's episode, I'm sharing a powerful conversation with entrepreneur and coach Moe Choice about rebuilding after setbacks, redefining success, and creating a business that supports the life you actually want to live. Moe opens up about his journey through multiple businesses, personal reinventions, and why he ultimately chose a simpler, freedom-focused approach to entrepreneurship over traditional hustle culture and constant scaling.Listen to the full episode to hear:How Moe rebuilt his life and business after major personal and financial setbacksWhy solopreneurship and high-ticket consulting became more appealing than traditional business growthThe mindset shifts that helped Moe redefine success around freedom and fulfillmentPractical strategies for using LinkedIn outreach to land consulting and coaching clientsWhy simplifying your business can lead to more meaningful and sustainable successFREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:Get early access to my latest YouTube video (free!): https://gillianperkins.com/early-accessGrab our free course: Small Business 101 - https://gillianperkins.com/free-training-small-business-101Learn “The $100K Method” with our free audio course - https://www.gillianperkins.com/100k-method-signupWork with Gillian Perkins:Apply for $100K Mastermind: https://gillianperkins.com/100k-mastermindGet your online biz started with Startup Society: https://startupsociety.comLearn more about Gillian: https://gillianperkins.comInstagram: @GillianZPerkins

In today's world of curated content, polished Instagram feeds, and highlight reels, it's easy for business owners to believe marketing is all about perception.But what happens when perception doesn't match reality?In this episode of The Visibility Podcast, Melissa Rose dives into the powerful difference between perception and truth in marketing, and why both matter if you want to build a trusted, sustainable business.Melissa unpacks how social media creates perception, why Google Business Profile acts as third-party verification, and how your website bridges the gap between what people see and what people actually experience when they work with you.If you are a dance studio owner, local business owner, or service-based entrepreneur trying to improve your visibility, marketing, SEO, and client trust, this episode is packed with practical insight and real talk.Because while social media may get attention… the truth is what gets people to stay.In This Episode: The difference between perception and truth in marketing  Why curated social media alone is not enough  How Google Business Profile builds trust and credibility  Why reviews, photos, and client feedback matter more than ever  The role SEO and Google search play in visibility  Why business owners are losing clients without realizing it  How your website should combine perception AND proof  Why visibility is more than just social media marketing  The connection between trust, search, and conversion  How AI and search behavior are changing local marketing Key Takeaways: Social media creates perception  Google Business Profile creates verification  Your website bridges the gap between the two  Visibility without trust will not convert  Reviews are one of the most powerful marketing tools you have Perfect For: Studio Owners  Brick-and-Mortar Businesses  Local Business Owners  Service-Based Entrepreneurs  Businesses wanting stronger SEO and local visibility  Anyone wanting to improve their Google Business Profile Melissa's Google Business Profile Workshop ✨ Live Workshop + Q&A ✨ On-Demand Training Available ✨ Learn how to optimize your Google presence before fall enrollment seasonKeywords:Google Business Profile, Local SEO, Visibility Marketing, Dance Studio Marketing, Small Business Marketing, Business Visibility, Google Reviews, Local Search, SEO Strategy, Brick and Mortar Visibility, Dance Studio Owner, Marketing Strategy, Service Business Marketing, Website Strategy, Online Reputation, ChatGPT Search, Google Optimization

See what the team at The Successful Bookkeeper has on right now → Sammy Mattingly and Fred Ott co-founded Mattingly & Ott Financial Accounting in their mid-twenties, with backgrounds in Big Four auditing and investment management — and a brief, memorable detour into portable sanitation. In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, they walk through the early decisions that shaped their firm: getting certified, landing first clients, and discovering that digital ads were no substitute for showing up in person. Chapters [00:00] Cold open and intro [01:18] Sammy's listener origin story [03:15] Backgrounds before bookkeeping [06:30] The porta potty adventure [11:00] Finding bookkeeping on YouTube [13:00] Five-week plan and first clients [16:00] Why paid ads flopped [18:30] Discovering networking as a strategy [21:00] Building one-to-one meeting habits [24:30] Shifting to strategic partnerships From Porta Potties to ProAdvisor Before bookkeeping, Sammy and Fred tried their hand at entrepreneurship the hard way — buying 20 used porta potties off a site called Crapper King, shipping them across the country on a semi-truck, and eventually moving them on Facebook Marketplace after a good pressure wash. The experience wasn't profitable, but it was formative. As Michael notes on the show, it gave them a layer of genuine empathy for clients: "They don't have all the answers, they're making mistakes, they're trying to figure it out." After a few more ideas, a YouTube video on starting a bookkeeping firm was all the spark Sammy needed. "I watched it, and I was like, well, if this guy can do it, Fred and I can do this." The Five-Week Launch Plan Once they committed to bookkeeping, Sammy and Fred moved fast. They built a five-week plan: get QuickBooks certified, become ProAdvisors, and land one client. Two large cleanup projects came through the QuickBooks ProAdvisor directory almost immediately — enough to justify going full-time. Fred describes those first weeks as equal parts doing the work and learning on the fly: "We were certified in QuickBooks, but it's like — we've got to figure out how this works. We've never done a QuickBooks cleanup for this type of company before." Why Paid Ads Weren't the Answer With their first projects underway, they turned to paid social media ads hoping to fill the pipeline. Six weeks and 15 or 16 leads later, the results were discouraging — contacts who were hard to reach and nowhere near ready to hire a bookkeeper. "We were finding they were all super unqualified," Fred says. That dead end turned out to be the pivot point. A conversation with a local small business attorney introduced a word they'd barely considered: networking. Networking as a Growth Engine Neither Sammy nor Fred would describe themselves as natural networkers — both lean introverted. But they committed fully, spending two to three months filling their days with open networking events and one-to-one coffee meetings. The accountability of working as a team made the difference: knowing the other person was putting in the effort kept each of them showing up. Fred's father, a career salesman, gave them the frame they needed: "Unseen, unheard, unsold." They tracked weekly one-to-one meeting goals, walked up to strangers, shook hands, and asked people to coffee — regardless of whether an obvious business connection was visible. Strategic Relationships Over Volume Over time, the approach evolved from broad networking to targeted relationship-building. Sammy describes the shift as following the data: "We took a step back and we were like, okay, what percentage of our referrals is coming from CPAs or whoever? And it's like, okay, well, if 80, 90% of our referrals are coming from these types of people, we need to go to rooms where there are these types of people." Tax preparers, business brokers, and other professionals who rarely attend networking events became the focus — making Mattingly & Ott's presence at those events even more valuable. Links mentioned Pure Bookkeeping — the system Sammy and Fred found through the podcast Pixie — practice management tool they discovered through The Successful Bookkeeper thesuccessfulbookkeeper.com — resources, episode search, and Ask the Show feature About the guests Sammy Mattingly and Fred Ott are co-founders of Mattingly & Ott Financial Accounting, LLC. High school friends turned business partners, they launched their bookkeeping firm roughly a year and a half ago and went full-time within the first few months. Sammy brings a background in Big Four audit; Fred comes from investment management. Together they serve small, service-based businesses and have built their client base almost entirely through in-person networking and strategic referral relationships. Part 2 of their conversation covers how those relationships translate into referral systems and scalable growth. About the hostMichael PalmerMichael Palmer is the host of The Successful Bookkeeper podcast and co-founder of Pure Bookkeeping and The Successful Bookkeeper. He started this work because of his father — a brilliant electrical contractor who worked twice as hard as he should have had to, because nobody on the financial side was in his corner. That gap is what The Successful Bookkeeper exists to close. His view: bookkeepers are the most undervalued force in small business — and every bookkeeper who builds a real business changes two families: theirs, and their clients'.

Thinking about hiring a coach to help you grow your private practice? Before you invest time, money, energy, and trust into someone else's guidance, it's important to know what you're actually looking for. In this episode, I'll share 5 key questions to help you evaluate potential coaches wisely — from experience and accountability to intuition, alignment, and integrity. Because finding the right support can absolutely change your business... but choosing poorly can cost you, too. So in this episode, you'll hear... Why the coaching industry can feel so overwhelming (and what to watch for). The importance of choosing someone who actually walks their talk. How testimonials, referrals, and client stories can help you evaluate a coach. Why emotional resonance and personal connection matters more than you think. The difference between a coach who cheers you on... and one who calls you forward. As you'll hear, I've been working with coaches off and on for 20 years, and I've learned something from every single one of them - including how to choose the right coach to begin with! I'm going to help you figure that out too, so that you can choose the kind of support that fits what you need with confidence. If you're standing at the threshold, wondering how to take the next step - you'll love this. Give it a listen. ~Wendy P.S. Working with excellent coaches has literally changed my life - AND my business. What if it's possible that that could happen for you? :) _______________ RESOURCES Interested in a Quick Start Consult? If you're ready to step into your growth edge, this 1:1 coaching work session could make all the difference. Learn more here. Looking for free resources for your Private Practice planning? Click here. Interested  being a Guest on the show? Submit your application here. Support the showWendy Pitts Reeves, LCSWHost, Ideal PracticePrivate Practice Coach and Mentorwww.WendyPittsReeves.comWendy@WendyPittsReeves.com

Small Business Exit Strategy: What Makes a Business Sellable? with Mike Finger   Find Rocky Lalvani @ www.ProfitComesFirst.com  or email him at rocky@profitcomesfirst.com Make more, work less video: https://youtu.be/   Are you building a business that you can actually sell, or have you just created a demanding job for yourself? In this episode of The Profit Answer Man, Rocky Lalvani sits down with Mike Finger, founder of Exit Oasis, to discuss the realities of preparing a small business for a successful exit. Mike, who identifies as "unapologetically small business," shares his hard-learned lessons from owning eight different businesses.   In this episode: A business that is enjoyable to own is more likely to be attractive to a buyer. Sellable businesses produce results that are desirable, duplicatable, and documented. Revenue growth without profit does not automatically create business value. Hiding profit to reduce taxes can significantly hurt valuation at exit. Systems such as Profit First and EOS can help remove the owner as the bottleneck.   Key Takeaways: Sellability and ownability are next-door neighbors. You must build desirable, duplicatable, and documented systems. The expected "silver tsunami" of business sales hasn't materialized. Hiding profit to save on taxes actively destroys your business's valuation multiple. Relying blindly on a business sale for retirement is a dangerous strategy.   Mike Finger's Money Learning:Mike Finger's core money lesson is that small business owners often sacrifice long-term wealth for short-term tax savings. His point is clear: when you hide profit to reduce taxes, you may also reduce the value of your business in the eyes of a buyer. Mike's message is that provable profit, clean financials, and strong systems are what create real enterprise value.   Why This Conversation Matters: Most small business owners assume that if they work hard enough, grow revenue, and keep the company going long enough, the exit will eventually take care of itself. This conversation matters because Mike makes it clear that sellability is not automatic. A business only becomes valuable to a buyer when it can produce results without being fully dependent on the owner.   About Mike Finger: Mike Finger is "unapologetically small business". Over the last 25 years Mike has bought, built and sold multiple businesses. Building his first business was a rewarding challenge, but what really captivated him was selling his first business. "Selling that business was a miracle in my life. It changed everything, but it almost didn't happen." He was 10 years in with 50 employees when he found out his business was unsellable. It was devastating. But he moved forward and focused on changing a few simple elements in the business. Those changes made that first sale possible, and it changed his life. He wants to help other small business owners make their business ready, so they can experience the incredible impact of a small business sale.   Links: Website: https://exitoasis.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-finger/     Profit Blueprint Calculator I Profit Comes First: https://lp.profitcomesfirst.com/profitblueprintcalc-page   Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@profitanswerman Sign up to be notified when the next cohort of the Profit First Experience Course is available! Free Copy of the Profit Blueprint Book: https://lp.profitcomesfirst.com/landing-page-page  Monthly Newsletter signup: https://lp.profitcomesfirst.com/newsletter-signup Relay Bank (affiliate link): https://relayfi.com/?referralcode=profitcomesfirst Profit Answer Man Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/profitanswerman/ My podcast about living a richer more meaningful life: http://richersoul.com/ Music provided by Junan from Junan Podcast Any financial advice is for educational purposes only and you should consult with an expert for your specific needs.     

What separates great entrepreneurs from everyone else is not avoiding failure. It's their ability to get back up and keep trying new things.Grant Hensel started 10 businesses, watched seven fail, scaled one into a 60-person company, shifted from building businesses to buying them, and recently raised nearly $12 million to back entrepreneurs acquiring small businesses.  In this episode of The Opportunity podcast, Grant joins us to share what separated his successful ventures from the failures and the benefits of buying businesses instead of building them from scratch. One of the keys to success for Grant was finding the right people. He explains that many of his own successes came from partnering with operators who were better suited to run the day-to-day business, while he focused on vision, support, and capital allocation. That philosophy now shapes how his fund evaluates acquisition entrepreneurs. We also dig into how he raised the fund itself, why he believes "boring" businesses can be incredible investments, and the warning signs that immediately kill a deal for him. We also discussed AI's impact on SEO agencies and why Grant believes AI is actually creating new opportunities for digital marketing businesses rather than destroying them. If you're interested in buying businesses, raising capital, or building long-term wealth through acquisitions, this episode is packed with practical insights and hard-earned lessons. Topics Discussed in this episode: 04:12 - What separated Grant's successful businesses from the failures  11:26 - Why Grant switched from building businesses to buying them  13:41 - How Grant found his first acquisition  14:30 - How AI is affecting marketing agencies  17:34 - How the first acquisition was structured   20:03 - The benefits of buying vs building a business 23:23 - Ins and outs of raising a fund 30:28 - Why Grant is sceptical of acquisition synergies  39:52 - How Grant evaluates searchers  46:26 - How Grant raised $12 million for acquisitions Mentions:  Empire Flippers Podcasts Empire Flippers Marketplace Create an Empire Flippers account Subscribe to our newsletter Main Street Capital Network Grant's LinkedIn Sit back, grab a coffee, and look behind the scenes of a $12million fund!  

Rachel Tallman lives in the Niagara region of Ontario, right between Toronto and Buffalo, and has been paper crafting for about 15 years. She built a sequin mix subscription business that grew quickly, landing collaborations with designers and producing a holiday advent calendar that sold out every year, before the Canada Post strike and US tariffs forced her to make an extremely hard call earlier this spring. This conversation digs into both the business reality and the emotional weight of closing something you love.

Hello voices from the bench community, John Wilson here and I wanted to share some news about the evolution of the Programill lineup. Most importantly, Ivoclar's new PrograMill 7. What stands out right away is the reduced air consumption this mill requires, but what you'll notice first is that impressive new touchscreen. For us, the biggest advantage has been increased spindle power. My laboratory's known for these larger cases with complex geometries, and I can tell you that extra power really makes a difference. Next time you see your Ivoclar representative, be sure to ask about the PrograMill 7 and tell them John Wilson sent you. Thank you. At exocad Insights in beautiful Mallorca, we finally caught up with Felix from Imagine USA—and the timing couldn't have been better. As an exocad dealer on the front lines of digital dentistry, Felix shared his excitement about the strong turnout, the familiar faces, and most importantly, the innovation coming from exocad. What stood out most? The new exocad Hub and its cloud-based capabilities, along with powerful AI-driven tools inside DentalDB designed for efficient batch processing. For Felix and the Imagine team, it's not just about seeing what's new—it's about putting it to the test. By running new features through their own production facility first, they ensure real-world performance before bringing solutions to their customers. Beyond the technology, Felix emphasized the value of being there in person—connecting face-to-face with partners, having meaningful conversations, and stepping back to see where the industry is headed. And of course, doing it all in Mallorca doesn't hurt either. "LIVE" again at the 2026 DLAT meeting, two very different conversations came together around one common theme: the future of dental technology is still being shaped by passionate people willing to learn, teach, and adapt. First, the podcast catches up with returning guest Tiffany Prater from Destination Orthodontic Lab, who shares how her lab journey has evolved from running a large commercial space with employees to building a smaller, more personal business focused on private practices and hands-on craftsmanship. Alongside her is Sydney Ribera, a young technician discovering orthodontics through mentorship, creativity, and a fascination with bending wire and pouring colorful acrylic retainers. The conversation dives into the realities of learning ortho in today's digital world, the importance of organizations like the Orthodontic Resource Group, and why mentorship still matters more than ever in a profession where most of the training happens shoulder-to-shoulder. Then the crew sits down with Marlin Gohn from Argen to talk about everything from next-generation zirconia to massive dental labs in China and the surprisingly common mistakes labs make when choosing disc sizes for milling. Marlin breaks down Argen's new gradient translucency zirconia, explains why nesting strategy matters more than most labs realize, and shares real-world troubleshooting tips that can save labs time, money, and remakes. The conversation also wanders through SLM frameworks, milled gold crowns, PFMs, translating lectures in China, and why some old-school techniques still outperform the newest trends. Special Guests: Marlin Gohn CDT, Sydney Ribera, and Tiffany Prater CDT.