Podcasts about Small business

Michael Bernstam reports that Ukrainian drones recently destroyed major distribution hubs for Wildberries, the Russian equivalent of Amazon, causing $2 billion in damage. These strikes have devastated small businesses and middle-class consumers, fueling internal resentment against the Kremlin. Simultaneously, 18 local Russian officials signed a petition calling for Putin's resignation as economic conditions worsen. The loss of consumer infrastructure and rising fuel costs are creating a constituency for ending the war to prevent a total economic collapse. (10)1862 INDIA

In this episode, Vincent A. Lancy shares insights on authenticity in communication, the importance of pivoting in entrepreneurship, and strategies for operational efficiency and audience engagement. He also announces upcoming releases and challenges listeners to evaluate and improve their business practices."AI can't replace human-to-human context"Chapters00:00 The edge of AI and human connection00:26 The importance of professionalism and authenticity01:23 Introducing the episode and upcoming product launches02:14 The shift in podcast landscape and content fatigue03:42 Focusing on radical pivots and high signal execution04:10 Changing business models and operational trimming05:07 Managing team and social media growth07:28 Adjusting offers and monetization strategies09:22 Streamlining client onboarding and value-added processes10:18 The importance of human-to-human context in communication11:48 Call to action: Regularly evaluate and cut one thing from your business or personal life to improve efficiency13:20 Upcoming product releases for personal growth14:50 Next episodes and closing remarksAdditional Key Takeaways For You*Pivoting strategies for entrepreneurs during market shifts*The importance of authenticity in AI-driven communication*Putting your middle initial in your LinkedIn name can help identify AI-generated messages.*Authentic human connection remains the key differentiator in marketing and communication.*Pivot your business strategies to prioritize relevance over scale in changing buyer psychology."Authenticity is the only true differentiator"Send us Fan MailSupport the showRemember to subscribe for the next episode. Show Sponsor: ComingAlive PodcastProduction.com (Download your Podcast Launch Checklist for only $1 here)Music Credits: Copyright Free Music from Adventure by MusicbyAden.

We bounce from brutal summer heat to a toe injury that hits at the worst possible time, then spiral into the oddly serious ways money, tech, and storytelling shape our daily lives. We also recap Palm Springs and the drive to Vegas, plus the little cultural words and habits that make the South feel like its own world.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.Visit www.WesleyTurnerLiving.com to find so much more about all the things we do! Find The Podcast At Whosdrivingpodcast.comFollow 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 

Less than 1% of U.S. businesses that ever raise outside money end up raising venture capital, and most founders chasing it don't actually need it.In this entrepreneur interview, Jeff Amerine — a venture capital investor and longtime advisor in the startup ecosystem — breaks down the real landscape of startup funding: when to bootstrap, when to raise, and why most companies burn time chasing the wrong kind of capital. He and co-hosts Daniel Koonce and Grace Gill also dig into what VCs actually look for, the most common fundraising mistakes founders make, and the difference between convertible notes and SAFEs.Whether you're bootstrapping your first idea or getting ready to pitch investors, this conversation will change how you think about who to raise from and when.What you'll learn:The three main ways founders fund a business and how to know which one fitsWhy raising venture capital has only gotten harder, and what VCs are really evaluatingThe most common fundraising mistakes founders make (and how to avoid them)Convertible notes vs. SAFEs, explained in plain EnglishWhat a strategic investor actually offers and when it's worth taking their money⏱️Chapters 1:26 Welcome to the Startup Junkies Podcast 2:03 The Three Ways to Fund a Small Business 3:43 What Is Bootstrapping? 5:33 Does Venture Capital Only Fund Tech Companies? 6:46 The Truth: Less Than 1% of Businesses Raise VC 7:33 When Is a Founder Ready to Raise Money? 9:59 Why Raising Venture Capital Has Gotten Harder 11:15 Inside a VC Firm: From 1,000 Deals to 3 or 4 12:43 How to Actually Find Investors 14:19 Common Fundraising Mistakes Founders Make 16:43 Convertible Notes vs. SAFEs, Explained 21:27 Why Startups Actually Need Money 23:35 What Are Strategic Investors — And Are They Worth It? 27:16 The Deal Jeff Wishes He'd Invested In

What if the new work coming your way is profitable, exciting, and consistent - but you are not sure whether it is a smart pivot or a slow drift away from the business you meant to build?In this episode of The Real Women Real Business Podcast, Shauna Lynn Simon shares a powerful conversation that came out of a recent Real Women Real Business Mastery Program group coaching call. When one service-based business owner realized the work she originally built her business around had gone quiet, while a different kind of work was gaining traction, it sparked an important question: should she lean into the demand or pause first?Shauna Lynn walks listeners through a three-part gut check to help business owners decide whether a new direction is aligned, strategic, and worth building around. She explains the difference between responding to the market and being led by the market, why money cannot be the only reason to pivot, and how to update a business vision without abandoning it.Listeners will walk away with a clear decision-making filter for pivots, offers, market demand, and business growth.Timestamps:(01:50) - (04:14) - Why business owners need intentional gut checks before changing direction(04:15) - (08:57) - The difference between responding to the market and being led by it(08:58) - (13:35) - Gut check one: would you still choose this work if money did not matter?(13:36) - (18:09) - Gut check two: does this new direction align with your business vision?(18:10) - (25:15) - Gut check three: do you need to update your vision or treat this as a detour?(25:16) - (30:35) - How to follow demand with intention and stay in control of your business growthResources:Book Your FREE Coaching Assessment Call with Shauna Lynn: https://www.aboutshaunalynn.com/coachmeLearn more about the show: AboutShaunaLynn.com/podcastLearn more about the Real Women Real Business Mastery Program: https://realwomenrealbusiness.com

Bill and Scott welcome Dan Anthony, president of Trade Partnership Worldwide, to discuss recent tariffs and their impact on small businesses.

Anika sat down with Deanna Dolecki and Ashley Ruggeri to explore how they built a thriving, 100% virtual boutique agency by leaning into radical authenticity. The conversation revealed how their Gen X and Millennial dynamic fuels their strategy, why hiring for intangibles matters more than a resume, and how they cut through the digital noise with unscripted banter on their podcast, Ducks Unplugged.In This EpisodeThe origin story of Blue Duck Agency and how a "no-meeting Wednesday" led to a radical rebrandWhy Deanna hires for "intangibles" and how asking about high school grades reveals a candidate's true characterAshley's transition from buttoned-up banking to thriving in the "gray area" of agency lifeLaunching the Ducks Unplugged podcast as a business strategy and creative testing groundHow Gen X and Millennial perspectives complement each other in leadership and marketing strategyThe truth about hustle culture and how different generations brand their work ethicWhy generative AI (like Deanna's ChatGPT, "Janice") is a tool, not a replacement for human creativityBrainstorming on the fly: Pushing boundaries with brands like Netflix and TupperwareTimestamps00:00 Introduction: Building businesses around radical authenticity 01:42 The origins of Blue Duck Agency and diverse career paths 05:24 Hiring for the "gray area" and the importance of intangibles 10:10 Launching the Ducks Unplugged podcast to differentiate the agency 18:48 The Gen X and Millennial dynamic: Bridging the generational gap 23:24 The Blue Duck rebrand: Standing out in a sea of yellow ducks 26:51 The "hustle culture" rebrand and generational work ethics 36:31 Balancing radical honesty with professional boundaries and real-time feedback41:25 Generative AI in marketing: Why human creativity still wins 45:36 Pitching Netflix a "binge pass" and other pop-culture brand moments 50:48 Favorite quotes and life mantrasKey Insights & TakeawaysInsight 1: Authenticity is a Differentiator In a crowded agency landscape where everyone offers similar services, clients buy the people. Creating unscripted, imperfect content like Ducks Unplugged lets prospects experience the team's chemistry, humor, and problem-solving skills before they ever book a discovery call. Perfect polish is out; relatable authenticity is in.Insight 2: Hire for Intangibles Over Resumes Resumes get you in the door, but character keeps you in the room. By asking candidates to talk through their intentions and past choices—even going back to high school—you learn how they navigate challenges, communicate, and fit into a remote, tight-knit culture.Insight 3: Generational Differences Are a Strategic Asset The contrast between Gen X (Deanna) and Millennial (Ashley) perspectives creates richer marketing strategies. Instead of clashing, these diverse viewpoints—from how they view hustle culture to how they consume media—ensure that campaigns resonate across different age demographics.Insight 4: AI is a Tool, Not a Strategy While generative AI is great for efficiency and thought starters, it cannot replace human experience. Relying too heavily on AI leads to homogenized marketing where everyone sounds the same. The human element, drawn from real-world experience and cultural nuance, is what makes campaigns actually convert.Insight 5: Embrace the "Gray Area" Having team members who thrive in the gray—testing, trying, and innovating without a guaranteed outcome—is crucial for an agency's evolution. Not every podcast segment or marketing test will work (like a blind dating show for marketing channels), but giving your team the freedom to test is how you find the strategies that stick.Resources & Links MentionedBlue Duck AgencyDucks Unplugged PodcastDirect Mail Marketing (and why it's making a comeback)About Deanna Dolecki & Ashley RuggeriDeanna Dolecki is the President of Blue Duck Agency, a boutique female-founded marketing agency. As a Gen X woman stepping into a new life phase with college-age kids and a post-marriage reset, she brings a perspective shaped by over 25 years of building a career, leading teams, and building brands. Known for leading with straight talk and hiring for intangibles, she also brings a well-informed and passionate take on pop culture.Ashley Ruggeri is a senior executive and Marketing Strategist with over 15 years of experience. A Millennial and married mom to a 7-year-old, she is right in the thick of balancing career and family. After navigating highly regulated corporate worlds, she brings clarity and calm to the chaos of agency life. She is also a proud hockey mom and unapologetically into Formula 1. Together with Deanna, she hosts Ducks Unplugged, bringing real conversation to work, life, relationships, parenting, and pop culture.Connect with Deanna & AshleyBlue Duck Agency: blueduckagency.comPodcast: Ducks UnpluggedLinkTree: https://linktr.ee/ducksunpluggedpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailIn this video, I audit an Amazon listing to show you how pro sellers design main images that convert by using the "main image hack," identifying high-volume keywords like "Acacia wood cutting board set," and optimizing for mobile shoppers with high-contrast elements and strategic banners. You'll learn why over-branding can hurt your click-through rate, how to navigate keyword differences for international marketplaces, and how to use competitive analysis to ensure your listing stands out in search results. For even more expert strategies on scaling your Amazon business, Book a call at My Amazon Guy and let's grow your brand together! https://bit.ly/4jMZtxu#AmazonSeller#AmazonBusiness #SellerCentral #AmazonSelling #AmazonB2BWant free resources? Dowload our Free Amazon guides here:Download the 2026 Amazon AI Operating Manual: https://bit.ly/3SLmusPAmazon Receiving Delay Guide: https://hubs.ly/Q04cdD4c0Amazon Catalog Spring Cleaning: https://hubs.ly/Q046BVfp0Amazon Proft Margin Defense 2026: https://hubs.ly/Q042trRH0Amazon SEO Toolkit 2026: https://bit.ly/4oC2ClTAmazon Seller Strategy Report 2026: https://bit.ly/3YN1RME2026 Ecommerce Website & SEO Readiness Checklist: https://hubs.ly/Q04btghf0Amazon 2026 PPC guide: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYXTimestamps00:00 - Why add business certifications to your Amazon profile?00:18 - Where to find B2B Certifications in Seller Central00:46 - Exploring certification types: Minority, Women, & Small Business01:01 - Deep dive: How Section 889 certification increases sales01:38 - Step-by-step: Applying via SupplierGATEWAY01:55 - Applying directly vs. through Amazon02:18 - Navigating the Small Business registration section02:35 - Application walkthrough: ID requirements & review process02:47 - The benefit of the Amazon Business profile badge-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

About a month ago, one of my executives had me download the Claude.AI app. Since then, it has completely revolutionized the way my small business works. Interestingly, the thing that won me over wasn't better content creation or smarter answers. After all, every one of these tools can do that. Instead, Claude pulled off something none of the others could. In under a month, it let me eliminate a position I'd planned to re-hire. And my profit margin went up instead of down. Just so you know, though, I'm a big fan of AI. I use a lot of different AI platforms for various business processes. But what my team and I have been able to do in the last few weeks is unbelievable. If you miss this opportunity and your competitors capitalize on it, you will be left behind -- and likely in a very, very, very short time. That's how powerful this is! On this episode, I'm going to give share with you what Claude is, how Claude is different from ChatGPT, Grok, Gemini, and other AI platforms, and a few specific things you can do in your business that will free up a ton of your time.Show Notes: What Is the Best AI for Business in 2026 (Small Businesses)?(https://www.leadersinstitute.com/what-is-the-best-ai-for-business-in-2026-small-businesses/)

Hispanic owned business are booming in Richmond. Michel Zajur from the Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce stops by the show to talk more about it.

[1:30] Mike introduces the idea that managing is sales, covering customers, tenants, subcontractors, and employees.[10:15] A'marri discusses hiring lessons, low-quality hires, and why managers need to set expectations early.[23:00] Bob explains why the customer should never become the foreman and how strong management builds trust.[38:30] Dave talks about managing new employees, checking their work, and starting them with simple assignments.[47:15] Lindsey shares how she manages property clients by offering practical housing solutions instead of forcing the wrong fit.

"Our situation is worse than COVID," says hotelier Jatinder Bir Singh, who says rising living costs, repeated interest rate hikes and higher fuel prices have taken a heavy toll on his business. He is among many small business owners across Australia reporting ongoing financial pressure. Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows around one in seven businesses needs assistance as operating costs continue to rise. Business owners say government support has largely focused on consumers and workers, with less attention paid to small-scale business owners. SBS Punjabi speaks with community members about the challenges facing their small businesses and the support they say their sector needs. - ਵੱਧਦੀਆਂ ਵਿਆਜ ਦਰਾਂ, ਮਹਿੰਗਾਈ ਅਤੇ ਤੇਲ ਦੀਆਂ ਕੀਮਤਾਂ ਕਾਰਨ ਛੋਟੇ ਕਾਰੋਬਾਰ ਮੁਸ਼ਕਲ ਦੌਰ ਵਿੱਚੋਂ ਲੰਘ ਰਹੇ ਹਨ। ਕਈ ਕਾਰੋਬਾਰੀਆਂ ਦਾ ਕਹਿਣਾ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਮੌਜੂਦਾ ਹਾਲਾਤ ਕੋਵਿਡ ਦੇ ਸਮੇਂ ਨਾਲੋਂ ਵੀ ਵੱਧ ਚੁਣੌਤੀਪੂਰਨ ਹਨ। ਐਸ ਬੀ ਐਸ ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ਨਾਲ ਗੱਲਬਾਤ ਦੌਰਾਨ ਭਾਈਚਾਰੇ ਦੇ ਕਾਰੋਬਾਰੀਆਂ ਨੇ ਕਿਹਾ ਕਿ ਸਰਕਾਰੀ ਸਹਾਇਤਾ ਯੋਜਨਾਵਾਂ ਵਿੱਚ ਜ਼ਿਆਦਾ ਧਿਆਨ ਕਰਮਚਾਰੀਆਂ 'ਤੇ ਹੈ, ਪਰ ਛੋਟੇ ਕਾਰੋਬਾਰੀਆਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਸਮੱਸਿਆਵਾਂ ਬਾਰੇ ਵੀ ਸੋਚਣ ਦੀ ਲੋੜ ਹੈ। ਆਸਟ੍ਰੇਲੀਅਨ ਬਿਊਰੋ ਆਫ਼ ਸਟੈਟਿਸਟਿਕਸ (ABS) ਦੇ ਤਾਜ਼ਾ ਅੰਕੜਿਆਂ ਮੁਤਾਬਕ ਛੋਟੇ ਕਾਰੋਬਾਰਾਂ ਦੇ ਖਰਚਿਆਂ ਵਿੱਚ 14 ਫੀਸਦ ਅਤੇ ਕਰਮਚਾਰੀਆਂ ਨਾਲ ਸਬੰਧਤ ਖਰਚਿਆਂ ਵਿੱਚ 9 ਫੀਸਦ ਦਾ ਵਾਧਾ ਹੋਇਆ ਹੈ। ਇਸ ਪੌਡਕਾਸਟ ਵਿੱਚ ਸੁਣੋ ਭਾਈਚਾਰੇ ਦੇ ਛੋਟੇ ਕਾਰੋਬਾਰੀਆਂ ਨੂੰ ਦਰਪੇਸ਼ ਚੁਣੌਤੀਆਂ ਬਾਰੇ ਗੱਲਬਾਤ।

Seattle Public Schools proved eco-blocks work. It’s time to legalize them. Seattle area home prices finally drop as inventory hits a 14-year high. Actor Armie Hammer is outraged by the final cut of a “hateful” movie he stars in. // Local leaders are taking a victory lap for Seattle’s successes hosting the World Cup. // A new report is sounding the alarm bells for small businesses in Washington.

Small businesses are using AI employees to automate workflows and support customers 24/7. This episode breaks down how these tools go beyond chatbots, what real adoption looks like, and the results teams are already seeing. Learn more at https://www.ai365agent.com/ai-employee-showcase Ai365Agent City: San Carlos Address: 4 Tulip Lane Website: https://www.ai365agent.com/ai-employee-showcase Phone: +1-618-361-4789 Email: support@ai365agent.com

The World Cup games have attracted thousands to stadiums across the country, as fans gathered to attend matches in person. That includes in Inglewood, which hosted eight games. It's the latest global event to come to the city's revitalized sports and entertainment district. But the extra foot traffic hasn't been a boon for everyone. Reporter: Keith Mizuguchi, The California Report One Salinas teen will represent Monterey County, and the Boys and Girls Club, at the World Cup Final, representing her home town on one of the world's largest stages. Reporter: Jillian Smith, KAZU Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Amazon really the biggest threat to independent retailers—or have we been looking at the problem all wrong? In this thought-provoking episode of Let's Have This Conversation, host Kevin McShan sits down with Bryan Weisberg, Founder & CEO of Merchwise AI, retail technology entrepreneur, and author of The Future of Main Street, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of commerce. With more than 30 years of experience building ecommerce platforms, software companies, manufacturing businesses, and omnichannel retail operations, Bryan offers a unique perspective on where retail has been—and where it's headed next. As a repeat entrepreneur who has consistently identified emerging technologies before they became mainstream, he explains why independent retailers still have enormous opportunities to compete in today's marketplace. One statistic challenges everything many people believe about retail today: 84% of all U.S. retail sales still happen inside physical stores. So why are so many local businesses struggling? Bryan argues that the problem isn't Amazon. It's the outdated business strategies many retailers continue to rely on. Throughout the conversation, Bryan shares how Merchwise AI is giving independent retailers access to enterprise-level artificial intelligence tools that automate merchandising, optimize product data, improve SEO, enhance product content, and simplify selling across multiple channels. Rather than replacing people, AI can empower small businesses to become more productive, more profitable, and more competitive. The discussion also explores Bryan's entrepreneurial journey—from building one of the earliest multi-merchant ecommerce platforms in the 1990s to launching an independent gift store in just 60 days with no previous retail experience, and growing Thousand Oaks Barrel Company into one of North America's leading manufacturers of personalized gifts and whiskey accessories. If you're a retailer, entrepreneur, ecommerce professional, business leader, or simply curious about how artificial intelligence is transforming commerce, this episode delivers practical insights into innovation, leadership, and the future of Main Street. In this episode, you'll discover: This conversation challenges conventional thinking about retail and demonstrates that the future belongs not to the biggest companies, but to the businesses willing to embrace innovation, adapt with purpose, and leverage technology to create more meaningful customer experiences.   For more information: https://merchwiseai.com/ LinkedIn: @BryanWeisberg   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anika sat down with Kristian Fields, President of Klover Contracting, to explore why the construction industry remains stuck in outdated practices while a few innovators are fundamentally reshaping how large-scale infrastructure gets built. They revealed a counterintuitive truth: the problem isn't labor shortage—it's workflow predictability. Kristian's 25-year perspective on construction management and his experience scaling Klover offered practical solutions against the persistent "construction can't change" narrative, alongside a sharp look at where prefabrication and AI actually create value.In This EpisodeThe origin story of Kristian's transition from VP Field Operations to President and what it actually requiredScaling velocity: watching Klover expand from regional contractor to national prefab leader with 100,000 sq ft manufacturing facilityThe prefabrication bet: why solving a 450,000-worker shortage required rethinking entire construction workflowsTeam culture that endures: why the "31 Fundamentals" campaign transformed hiring and retentionWhy documented processes and institutional memory matter more than raw headcountThe ongoing myth that prefab compromises quality—what real project data actually showsBuilding the BIM-to-Field execution bridge and why that gap existedLeadership lessons from historic preservation to data centers: why architectural intent matters in every buildPredictive automation versus chatbot AI: where manufacturing is actually headedTimestamps00:00 Introduction: 25 years in construction management10:00 The prefabrication origin story and why it started 15 years ago12:16 The construction industry's real problem: skilled labor shortage and workflow unpredictability22:01 Environmental impact: reducing 3,000+ gallons of diesel fuel through prefab consolidation29:24 Preparing for AI-assisted manufacturing: rethinking BIM coding for future machine integration36:33 Advice for newcomers: pursue work you enjoy, stay close to target roles, maintain humility39:00 The core mantra: "Be relentless about improvement" and "action over accuracy"Key Insights & TakeawaysInsight 1: Workflow Unpredictability Isn't a Labor Problem—It's a Strategy ProblemConstruction sites with 50+ workers juggling electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and structural crews operate like traffic on a congested highway. One trade delays another. The industry assumes the solution is hiring more workers. Klover's insight: the problem is predictability. By moving complex coordination off-site into BIM modeling and prefabrication, you eliminate the traffic jam entirely. The fix isn't more people—it's smarter workflows.Insight 2: Culture Scales Through Documented Examples, Not Top-Down MandatesThe "31 Fundamentals" campaign works because it's not a poster on the wall. Every week, Kristian shares one fundamental with real examples of employees living it. Other employees then submit their own interpretations. Recognition follows. That's how culture survives hypergrowth—through repetition, example, and celebration of behavior you want to see.Insight 3: AI Amplifies What You Already Have—It Doesn't Create Value in a VacuumKristian isn't chasing chatbots or automation theater. He's preparing for AI that augments human expertise. The vision: BIM models coded to eventually communicate with automated welders or assembly equipment. Workers don't disappear—they expand their capacity. If you don't have documented processes and repeatable workflows, no AI tool compensates. Your advantage is the expertise you've already built.Insight 4: The Future Isn't Conversational AI—It's Predictive IntelligenceForget chatbots answering questions. Imagine manufacturing AI that knows your project timeline, your site constraints, your crew's skill level, and your budget—and it automatically optimizes panel sequencing, delivery schedules, and installation sequences without asking a single question. That's predictive intelligence. That's where Klover is heading.Resources & Links MentionedKlover ContractingWebsite: www.kloverinc.comServices: Prefab construction, BIM coordination, data center solutions, healthcare, multifamily housing, higher educationKey ConceptsBIM (Building Information Modeling): 3D digital modeling that resolves design conflicts before manufacturingJust-in-Time Delivery: Manufacturing and delivering components precisely when needed to avoid wasteThe 31 Fundamentals: Weekly cultural communication framework covering safety, quality, teamwork, and accountabilityPrefabrication: Off-site manufacturing of building components for faster, safer, more predictable installationAbout Kristian FieldsKristian Fields is President of Klover Contracting, a prefabrication and commercial construction leader serving healthcare, multifamily housing, higher education, and data center markets across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. With 25 years in construction management, structural engineering, and senior leadership, he brings rare technical expertise combined with operational vision.His career progression—from estimating and procurement to VP Field Operations to COO to President—reflects deliberate commitment to understanding every aspect of the business. At Klover , he's championed the prefabrication strategy that has scaled the company to national prominence, including completing one of the largest prefabricated apartment buildings in the US and expanding into data center construction.His philosophy centers on relentless improvement, action over perfection, and treating people as the core asset. He maintains that humility and continuous learning are non-negotiable leadership practices.Connect with Kristian FieldsWebsite: www.kloverinc.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristian-fields-a29b7613/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A student's zip code should not decide their future. Penelope Barton built a school in 70 countries to prove it.Penelope is the CEO of Crimson Global Academy and co-founder of Crimson Academies, a group of five schools serving students from age five through eighteen, online and in person. Last year her team ran 144,000 classes. Some of her students learn from boats, connected by satellite internet.She grew up in rural New Zealand before the internet, where one teacher covered English, math, and science, and you got whoever you got. That is the problem she has spent six years dismantling.We talk about how she scaled it: starting with two years of high school and one curriculum, then adding learning modes, ages, and countries as students asked for them. She places kids by ability, not age. Seven-year-olds are building apps. A venture capital firm is funding five of her seniors to launch real businesses before graduation. And she just opened a tuition-free school funded directly by the New Zealand government, which took three years of proving results first.She also says something most founders will recognize: the hardest thing she manages is not scale or regulation. It is her own impatience.Chapters:

Matt and Allie on site at our Montgomery center to interview student PT, Tanner Johnson. Tanner shares his background, PT school experience and previous clinical round stories, as well as his interest in being more involved in sports for his future career. Matt asks him to share his experience in Dry Needling, seeing Direct Access patients, and using Ai assisted documentation. Tanner also gives his advice to aspiring PTs and even to Tanner's past self now that he's almost completed his second clinical round.Did you know that you don't need a doctor's prescription to receive physical therapy?  You can schedule here . The laws of Direct Access allow you to receive physical therapy without a referral and still use your insurance benefits! Learn more on how Direct Access can help YOU! Our website: https://www.oxfordphysicaltherapy.com/

Morgan Chen, Morgan Chen Productions, on Documentary-Style Video Marketing for Small Businesses and Nonprofits (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 974) On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes Morgan Chen, President of Morgan Chen Productions, to discuss how video storytelling can help businesses build trust with the people they serve. Morgan explains […]

Eye to eye contact builds connectivity during a business conversation. Looking down, or looking away creates customer uneasiness, feelings of alienation, and heightened skepticism. Teach, train and manage, consistent eye to eye contact with buyers, and watch your customer loyalty increase.Support the show

Discover why generic keywords attract browsers while specific, localized, high-intent phrases bring customers ready to book. Learn the simple formulas top service businesses use to capture emergency and same-day searches - and where to place them for maximum impact. ProfitAcuity.com Profit Acuity City: Pittsburgh Address: 239 Fourth Ave, Ste 1401 #8511 Website: https://app.profitacuity.com Phone: +1 877 624 1229

Press releases can cost thousands with unclear ROI for small businesses. Blog posts, video content, and social media offer better control, engagement, and measurable results for announcements in 2026. To learn more, visit https://ampifire.com/blog/techcrunch-wired-article-coverage-cost-to-submit-is-it-worth-it/ AmpiFire City: London Address: London Office 15 Harwood Road, , London, England United Kingdom Website: https://ampifire.com/ Email: support@ampifire.com

"What if I didn't let it stop me? What if I just push past it?"Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this Alumni Spotlight episode, Dan Irvin sits down with Speaker Lab alumni Jennifer Ryan — a speaker who just hit a real turning point. She finished her book, Be the Donkey, Not the Jackass, she's ready to take it on the road, and she's built a talk that is unmistakably her own.Jennifer's message starts with fear — the greatest motivator and the greatest deterrent to everything. It began with a movie, sparked a "year of yes" where she said yes to literally everything, and led her to a horse and dog rescue where two donkeys handed her the metaphor that became her book. Along the way she learned what it takes to write something deeply vulnerable, rebuild a talk after rereading her own book exposed the gaps, and differentiate herself in a world where "a million people speak about yes."But this conversation doesn't stay in theory. Jennifer and Dan get honest about the hard stuff: the conference that suddenly had no space for her (and no explanation why), the self-doubt train that follows silence, and the moment she realized her talks were entertaining people without actually moving them to act. Her fix — be prescriptive, give your audience exactly what to do next Monday — is a masterclass in building talks that create change instead of just applause.You'll learn:Why fear is both the greatest motivator and the greatest deterrentHow a "year of yes" can completely change your trajectoryHow to find your signature story in unexpected placesWhy writing a book is a "humbling" exercise in vulnerabilityHow rereading your own book reveals the gaps in your talkHow to differentiate yourself when your topic is "already taken"What to do when a reliable speaking avenue suddenly closesHow to handle negative feedback (and why the 2% matters)The difference between entertaining an audience and moving them to actWhy prescriptive next steps are what turn talks into transformationAnd much, much more!"A talk has done its job the moment one person decides to try something new."What's the question that flips the switch on your fear? Grab a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment at thespeakerlab.com/SBA and turn "what if" into your next step.Episode Resources:Get Your 15 Minute Speaker Business AssessmentJennifer Ryan's WebsiteCalculate Your Speaking FeeSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you've ever wondered whether investing in your marketing, social media, and AI skills is really worth it, this interview is for you.In this Academy Member Spotlight, I sit down with Tara Robinson of RE/MAX First Choice Realty in Savannah, Georgia. Tara shares how joining the #GetSocialSmart Academy helped simplify her marketing, save valuable time, build confidence with social media, and embrace AI tools like Claude to grow her business.Whether you're a Realtor who struggles with consistency, wonders what to post, or feels overwhelmed by all the changes happening in social media and AI, Tara's story will inspire you.In this interview, you'll learn:✔️ Why Tara joined the #GetSocialSmart Academy✔️ How the monthly content calendars save her hours every month✔️ Why community matters more than ever✔️ How Claude AI became a complete game changer✔️ How AI helps with YouTube scripts, marketing, and content creation✔️ Advice for Realtors who feel overwhelmed by social media✔️ Why continuing education is one of the best investments you can makeIf you've been thinking about becoming more consistent with your content, this conversation is full of practical encouragement and real-world advice.Learn More:✨ Join the #GetSocialSmart Academy:https://katielance.com/academyConnect with Tara Robinson:

Being Childfree changes how you build a business, from the money you can pour back in, to the hours you keep to the question of who it's all for. Jena Gribble of Blush Cactus and Huzefa Kapadia of Scalar Learning join Bri Conn, CFP® to talk about what that has actually looked like for them, the runway that lets them weather a slow season, the boundaries they set by choice, and how they think about a business's future when handing it down was never part of the plan. They get into the real trade-offs and the freedom underneath them, including why success on your own terms beats scaling for the sake of scaling every time.In This Episode, You'll Learn:How being Childfree can create real financial flexibility for a business owner, from reinvesting profits to building the runway that carries you through slower seasons.Why flexibility and availability are not the same as having unlimited time, and how both founders set boundaries around work that they chose rather than work that was imposed on them.How to think about the future of a business when passing it to children isn't the goal.Why defining what success actually looks like matters so much for Childfree founders, and how to avoid the trap of scaling for the sake of scaling.What experienced founders wish more people understood before starting out.Episode Guests:Jena Gribble is the founder and brand strategist at Blush Cactus, a branding and marketing agency in Gilbert, Arizona, that helps businesses clarify who they are, communicate their value, and build brands people trust. What began as a freelance graphic design business grew into a full agency with a team, with strategy at the heart of everything they do.Connect with Jena: blushcactus.comHuzefa Kapadia is the founder of Scalar Learning, a Los Angeles based education company focused on math education. A former software engineer and patent attorney, he launched Scalar Learning solo in 2013 and grew it through word of mouth and a successful YouTube channel into a team of tutors, while still tutoring more than anyone on his team.Connect with Huzefa: scalarlearning.com Episode Host:Bri Conn, CFP® is a Childfree Wealth Specialist at Childfree Wealth® and Customer Experience Manager at Childfree Trust®. She specializes in financial management, life design, and estate planning, with particular focus on LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, drawing on her own early financial challenges and recovery to fuel her work in personal finance education.About Childfree Insights:Childfree Insights is a trusted resource for life planning without children. It explores financial planning, estate planning, relationships, and long-term decisions for adults building a future without kids. Home of Childfree Wealth® and Childfree Trust®.Connect with Us:Ready to work on building better financial habits? Connect with our financial planning team at childfreewealth.com or learn more about estate planning at childfreetrust.com.Follow Childfree Life by Design on your favorite podcast platform and join the conversation on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childfreeinsightsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildfreeInsights/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/childfreeinsightsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChildfreeInsightsDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.

Amber Johnson is an attorney whose legal career has evolved from civil rights and compliance work into helping small businesses compete for multimillion-dollar airport contracts. In this episode, Amber shares how her law degree opened unexpected doors, why transportation is full of legal careers beyond aviation law, and how lawyers can use their skills to build stronger organizations and stronger communities.   Lawyer Side HustlesAlthough Amber no longer practices law full time, she intentionally maintains her law licenses while continuing to grow her leadership career. Along the way, she has discovered that the skills lawyers develop are remarkably transferable across industries.  "Think about what you're passionate about and then find a role that fits that,” Amber Johnson expresses in Episode 253 of You Are a Lawyer.Amber's professional journey has taken her from diversity, equity, and inclusion work to civil rights compliance, public transportation, and now airport operations. Each transition built upon the last, proving that legal careers don't have to follow a straight line. Instead of limiting herself to one definition of success, she continues finding new ways to combine law, leadership, and community impact. This episode is produced by Skip the Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for business owners and creatives.

Small business fraud is evolving — and fraudsters are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, from synthetic identities to AI-generated documents and digital deception. In this episode of Market Pulse, Equifax's David Adams talks with Jill Molitor, Director of Fraud and Credit Administration at Stearns Bank, about how lenders can balance faster decisioning with stronger fraud prevention.In this episode:How are fraudsters using AI to target small businesses?Fraudsters are increasingly using AI and digital tools to create synthetic identities, falsified documents and more sophisticated fraud schemes. These tactics can make fraudulent businesses appear legitimate, requiring lenders to look beyond traditional verification methods, according to Stearns Bank. What is synthetic identity fraud in business lending?Stearns Bank describes synthetic identity fraud as a “Frankenstein” identity — where fraudsters combine fabricated or manipulated information to create a person or business profile that appears real. These identities may establish credit history before eventually defaulting, leaving lenders with limited recourse. Can AI solve fraud detection challenges?Equifax and Stearns Bank discuss how AI and machine learning can help identify suspicious patterns, unusual activity and potential risks. However, technology alone is not enough. Human expertise remains critical for evaluating context, reducing false positives and making informed decisions. 

Segment 1: Tifair Hamed, Chief Growth Officer at P33, joins John to tell us everything we should know about TechChicagoWeek 2026. Tifair says to think about this event as the ‘Lollapalooza for Innovation.’ Segment 2: Scott Stein, Editor at Large, CNET, joins John Williams to talk about Samsung’s summer Galaxy Unpacked event. What are the big things we […]

Liz Peek discusses the strong American economy, noting that small businesses feel relief as tariff threats abate and inflation falls. Lower energy and gasoline prices have cheered investors. Anecdotal evidence from local bookstores and ice cream parlors reinforces a positive outlook for consumer sentiment. (1)1900 READING RR

Coaching Over Managing: Empowering Leaders to Inspire Growth through Coaching by Terry Ostrowiak https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GWPZML42 Quantumleapcatalyst.com Synopsis: Coaching Over Managing: Empowering Leaders to Inspire Growth through Coaching is designed to help managers coach rather than simply manage.Autobiography: Terry Ostrowiak is a Business Catalyst who helps open-minded executives in small businesses achieve Quantum Leap Results-hitting targets and goals faster and more easily than they could on their own. His coaching career spans over 40 years across 26 countries. He has organized and conducted coaching and training programs, workshops, and seminars for a range of small and large companies.For 12 years, Terry ran one of the most successful independent Dale Carnegie operations in Johannesburg, South Africa, and was awarded the International President’s Cup three times for generating and conducting quality business.He was appointed Special Adviser to the International Federation of Professional Coaches and Mentors, has hosted his own radio programs in the United States, and is the founder of Dynamus International, a global coaching consultancy based in San Diego, California.With over 40 years of experience coaching, teaching, and training small businesses worldwide, Terry (aka The Quantum Leap Catalyst) shares his approach to what makes a successful coach and what makes a client’s coaching session truly exceptional. Terry has also published a book titled The Greatest Book on Coaching for Small Business, which addresses the challenges faced when running and growing a business to higher levels.

Everyone seems to be talking about AI, automation, and the latest marketing tools—but what if you're still not comfortable recording a simple video?In this episode, I'm sharing an honest conversation about one of the biggest challenges I see among real estate professionals today: the fear of getting on camera. If you've been telling yourself you're "not a video person," this episode is for you.I share practical, encouraging advice to help you build confidence one small step at a time—including why one-to-one videos are the perfect place to start, why you don't need fancy equipment or a perfect script, and how authenticity will always outperform perfection.We'll also talk about:Why confidence comes from doing, not waitingHow to practice video without posting publiclyWhy one-to-one videos can help you build confidence quicklyMy simple approach to recording content without overthinking itHow batching videos can save you time and reduce stressWhy your clients want to connect with the real you—not a polished influencer version of youIf you've been waiting until you feel "ready" to start creating video, I hope this episode encourages you to simply hit record. Your future clients don't need perfection—they need your expertise, your heart, and your willingness to show up.Helpful Links:

What if the next great family business wasn't a business at all—but a car? Self-driving vehicles are arriving faster than most people realize, and they may completely change how families think about transportation, income, and stewardship. In this episode, we explore why autonomous Teslas could become one of the most practical business opportunities available to ordinary families. Imagine a vehicle that can run errands, take Grandma to church, drive the kids to practice, handle airport runs, and potentially earn income while you're at work or asleep. It sounds futuristic, but the future may be closer than you think. Join us as we discuss the opportunities, challenges, and implications of a world where your next employee might be a car. Links in this Episode AW Bootcamp: Aug 21-23  Please partner with us in inspiring and equipping multi-gen families at https://abrahamswallet.com/support AW website Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Chapters (00:00:00) - How to Manage a Six-Child Household(00:00:21) - Abraham's Wallet: Cutting-Edge Technology(00:02:18) - Abraham's Wallet Camp(00:06:23) - Cars and Small Business(00:07:21) - Tesla's Full-Self-Driving Service(00:12:24) - Full-Self Driving For One Hour(00:15:35) - Robo Taxi: Elon's Big Idea(00:21:08) - Tesla's CyberCab(00:26:24) - Robot Taxi: The CyberCab(00:29:34) - Tesla to Sell Cyber Cabs to Individuals(00:30:50) - Imagine Driving Your Child Around In a Robotic Car(00:34:56) - Do You Need A Car to Drive?(00:37:23) - A Tesla for the Family?(00:41:28) - Cyber Cab(00:43:28) - Abraham's Wallet: Retreat Announcement

Text a question to Victoria!If you've ever been curious about lip filler and the world of medical aesthetics, then this episode is for you! Lisa Campbell is a nurse practitioner and the Founder of Unveil Aesthetics, an aesthetics and wellness practice based out of Wilmington, Delaware. She specializes in cosmetic injectables, Botox filler, bio stimulators, and more.In this episode, Victoria and Lisa discuss her journey from spending 10 years as a nurse to eventually opening her own aesthetics practice. They talk about medical aesthetics as a field of medicine, rebranding and shifting into a premium brand, advice for new business owners, being a forever student, and how every unique experience you have helps you build the skillset to run your business. Lisa also answers your burning questions on skincare and trendy wellness topics with a fun "do it or ditch it" rapid fire.Whether you work in aesthetics or are simply curious about health and wellness practices (including red light therapy and salmon sperm facials), this conversation is for you. Pour yourself a sparkling water or big mug of coffee, and enjoy this fun girl chat episode with Lisa.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Watch the Episode on YouTubeBook With Unveil Medical AestheticsConnect With Lisa on InstagramWork With BrandWell DesignsFor 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!

Anika sits down with Julie Ellis to explore the inflection point every founder dreads—the moment you've built the business, achieved the goal, and suddenly realize you have no idea who you are without it. Discover why selling an eight-figure business can feel like grief disguised as success, how delegation is the real bottleneck between scaling and plateauing, and the counterintuitive truth that derails most women entrepreneurs: it's never about having a bigger vision. It's about believing you're worthy of one—and whether you have the systems and people around you to make it real.In This EpisodeFrom dance to finance to founder: How an unexpected career path led Julie to solve a problem every parent knew existedThe basement to eight figures: Building Mabel's Labels from a 300 sq ft basement in Hamilton, Ontario to an internationally recognized brand—with zero industry experienceGrassroots growth and celebrity endorsements: How a tiny magazine feature led to Daily Candy recognition and a life-changing mention from Elizabeth Hasselbeck on The ViewThe art of delegation and scaling: Why most founders plateau and what separates those who scale to eight figures from those stuck at product-market fitThe post-exit identity crisis: Navigating grief, imposter syndrome, and gratitude after selling to Avery Products—and why the 90-day rest period changed everythingBig Gorgeous Goals: Why "gorgeous" matters as much as "big"—and how to chase ambitious goals while actually enjoying the journeyThe confidence gap and funding inequity: Why only 2.9% of venture capital goes to women entrepreneurs, and what Julie is doing to change thatPocket Coach: The asynchronous coaching model that keeps entrepreneurial momentum alive between sessionsBuilding community for women founders: The Big Gorgeous Goals podcast and investing in women-led businessesLeading through uncertainty: Why the biggest breakthroughs happen in times of changeTimestamps00:00 Introduction: The woman who solved every parent's labeling problem02:01 An unexpected founder: Dance degree, 15 years in finance, and the moment everything changed04:00 The basement days: One year of research, zero industry experience, and a team of misfits06:28 From tiny magazine feature to Elizabeth Hasselbeck's endorsement on The View11:06 The biggest gap between founders who plateau and those who scale: Delegation and decision-making12:49 The acquisition: Selling Mabel's Labels after nearly 13 years—and why it was the right time17:29 The post-sale emotions: Grief, imposter syndrome, and the gratitude sandwich19:07 The 90-day rest and the identity crisis: Why "I'm not qualified" became the biggest lie22:22 The coaching pivot: Why certification gave her the "add" she was looking for23:18 Writing during the pandemic: How a daily writing group turned a book idea into Big Gorgeous Goals25:37 Why "gorgeous" matters: Dancing toward your goals instead of grinding toward them28:01 Creating white space: Why unstructured time is where the best ideas live31:33 The confidence gap and funding inequity: 2.9% of VC goes to women; only 2% of women-founded businesses reach $1M33:45 Pocket Coach: Asynchronous coaching for keeping momentum alive between sessions35:52 The Big Gorgeous Goals podcast: Storytelling for women entrepreneurs39:02 Her ideal coaching clients: Low seven-figure founders scaling to $5-10M40:01 What's next: New keynotes and workshops on leading bold teams through uncertainty41:38 Her guiding quote: Rabindranath Tagore's "Reach high for stars lie hidden in you"Key Insights & TakeawaysInsight 1: Unmet Market Needs Beat Industry ExpertiseJulie and her co-founders had no background in supply chain, marketing, or distribution—just a teacher, a financial planner, a lawyer, and a printing expert. What they had was a real problem to solve and a growth mindset. Expertise can be learned; identifying genuine customer pain points cannot.Insight 2: Delegation and Decision-Making Are the Scaling BottleneckThe biggest gap between founders who plateau and those who scale to eight figures isn't product or market—it's the ability to delegate and make decisions. Most founders get caught in the "I should have just done it myself" trap, which prevents them from reaching the next level.Insight 3: Post-Exit Grief Is Real—And Worth ProcessingSelling your business is an achievement, but it's also a loss. Julie experienced imposter syndrome, grief, and identity confusion after the sale. Her 90-day rest period—where she did nothing—was transformative. The emotional work matters as much as the financial outcome.Insight 4: White Space Is Where Creativity LivesThe best ideas don't come at your desk—they come in the shower, on a walk, flying on a plane. Creating intentional unstructured time requires saying no to things and protecting space fiercely, even though it feels counterintuitive.Insight 5: Women Entrepreneurs Face Systemic Funding and Confidence GapsOnly 2.9% of venture capital goes to women, yet women-led businesses outperform on efficiency and team management. The solution isn't just funding—it's mentoring, networks, and other women believing in women.Insight 6: Asynchronous Coaching Keeps Momentum AliveTraditional coaching sessions every two weeks create gaps where momentum dies. Pocket Coach's voicemail-based model lets entrepreneurs push through decisions in real time, maintaining the energy they need to scale.About Julie EllisJulie Ellis is a leadership coach, author, investor, and podcast host specializing in helping women entrepreneurs scale from seven to eight figures and beyond. She co-founded Mabel's Labels in a 300 sq ft basement in Hamilton, Ontario in 2003, growing it into an internationally recognized eight-figure brand before selling to Avery Products in 2016.After a 90-day rest and a brief stint managing 135 people in corporate retail, Julie pursued coaching certification and discovered her true calling: helping other entrepreneurs navigate the inflection points she'd experienced. She is the author of Big Gorgeous Goals: Bold Women Achieve Great Things, which features interviews with 16 women entrepreneurs who've scaled beyond the comfort zone.Today, Julie invests in women-led businesses, hosts the Big Gorgeous Goals podcast, offers one-on-one and asynchronous coaching through Pocket Coach, and delivers keynotes and workshops on leading bold teams through uncertainty.Resources & Links MentionedJulie Ellis's EcosystemBig Gorgeous Goals (Book) — Hybrid published with Page Two, distributed through MacmillanBig Gorgeous Goals Workbook — Self-published companion guideBig Gorgeous Goals Podcast — Stories from seven and eight-figure female foundersPocket Coach — Asynchronous voicemail-based coaching for entrepreneursConnect with Julie EllisOpen to: Keynotes, workshops on leading bold teams through uncertainty, coaching, and investing in women-led businessesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-ellis/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejulieellisWebsite: www.julieellis.caSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Investigation examines how biased behavior can lead to mistrust between community groups and law enforcement. Plus, how a law to protect privacy is negatively impacting small businesses. Also, behind the scenes look at Young Actors Stage.

One wrong joke can turn a confident introduction into an instant cold sweat, and we lived it on the showroom floor. After a long break from recording, we climb back into Who's Driving to catch you up on the behind-the-scenes reality of running small businesses when travel, projects, and life all hit at once, then we rewind straight to Atlanta Market for the stories we missed.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.Visit www.WesleyTurnerLiving.com to find so much more about all the things we do! Find The Podcast At Whosdrivingpodcast.comFollow 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 

What happens when a mom sees a problem no one else is solving? She creates the solution. In this episode, Stacey shares how she went from speech pathologist and mom of four to the founder of Smile Paint®, a revolutionary toothpaste designed to make brushing easier, more fun, and more accessible for kids with sensory needs. She opens up about taking a leap of faith, overcoming obstacles, and why having a purpose bigger than yourself can carry you through the toughest moments of entrepreneurship. Whether you're a parent, business owner, or dreamer with a big idea, this conversation will leave you inspired to keep going. About Stacey Thomas Stacey Thomas is a speech-language pathologist, special needs advocate, and mom of four who founded Smile Paint®, a play-based toothpaste designed to make brushing fun and accessible for children, especially those with sensory sensitivities. Inspired by her firsthand experience helping families navigate daily toothbrushing challenges, Stacey created Smile Paint® to turn oral care into a positive, engaging experience that helps kids build healthy habits through play. Learn more about Smile Paint website Connect with Stacey on LinkedIn   If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating  and leave us a comment on iTunes   CONNECT WITH CHRISTINA! Instagram LinkedIn Christinalecuyer.com Book a Free Clarity Call Book Christina For Your Next Workshop

What if the problem isn't that you're not working hard enough at all…What if the problem is that you've built a business that no longer feels like you?As part of our Summer Replay Series, I'm bringing back one of my favorite conversations — and it is just as powerful today as it was when we first recorded it.Maira Holzmann is a somatic therapist, group practice owner, and business coach whose approach to business is refreshingly different.Rather than chasing someone else's definition of success, she set out to build a business that reflected her deepest values, honored her strengths, and supported the life she actually wanted to live.Please — if you ever feel like you're having to sacrifice your Self in order to build your business — listen to this.Because in this episode, you'll hear...Why alignment matters just as much as strategy when growing your business.How Maira found the courage to rebuild even when nothing felt like it was working…The oh-so-powerful mindset shifts that helped her stop playing small. Period.What it means to build a business from the inside out.See here's the thing.Your success will feel completely different if it's rooted in your values instead of your ego, when you make decisions, take action, and craft your practice in the way that feels deeply true to who you are.Deeply true to who you are…And you'll still make good money, have a life, and feel wonderful about the work you do.Doesn't get any better than that, does it?So check it out. And let me know how this lands for you.If this conversation resonates, I'd love to hear what stood out most. And if someone comes to mind who needs this reminder right now, share the episode with them!  Not to sound over the top - but really - you could change someone's life.~WendyP.S. One of my favorite moments in this conversation comes near the very end, when I asked Maira what one last bit of wisdom she felt called to share. What she said has stayed with me ever since. I hope it stays with you, too. And if you know someone else who needs to hear this, please share it with them._____________TODAY'S GUEST: MAIRA HOLZMANNMaira Holzmann, LCSW passionately works at the intersection of being a seasoned therapist running a growing group practice and a business coach for soul-aligned therapists who want to stop feeling overworked, underpaid and unappreciated. With her extensive training in empowered somatics, healing trauma, and nurturing resilience Maira is dedicated to helping psychotherapists do good, live large and thrive more.You can find her at: www.SomaticTherapyPartners.com_____________MENTIONEDEpisode 39: Why Closing Her Group Practice was One of the Best Things She Ever Did: An Interview with Ali BoehmEpisode 42: Thinking Big: How to Grow and Manage a Large Group Practice with Amanda LandryEpisode 43: What I Got Right as a Group Practice Owner, and a Few Things I Missed_____________LET's CONNECT:Want to be a Guest on Ideal Practice™? Submit your application here.Follow me on Facebook or LinkedIn. Support the showWendy Pitts Reeves, LCSWHost, Ideal PracticePrivate Practice Coach and Mentorwww.WendyPittsReeves.comWendy@WendyPittsReeves.com

Have you ever wondered if your business is financially fragile? It's a term that might not sound very attractive, but it's a reality for thousands of small businesses—even those that look incredibly healthy from the outside. In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on why so many small business owners are quietly stressing behind closed doors. We're talking about the gap between looking successful on social media and actually having a stable, profitable foundation. In this episode, we cover: The "Financial Fragility" Trap: How a business can look busy, have customers, and show growth, yet be one slow month away from a full-on panic. Common Signs of Fragility: If you find yourself constantly transferring money between accounts, living "weekend-to-weekend," or using debt to cover operational mistakes, this episode is for you. The 6 Reasons Your Business Stays Fragile: Focusing on Sales, Not Profit: Revenue is just an illusion of success if you aren't retaining profit. Emotional Decision-Making: Buying inventory, hiring, or avoiding price increases based on feelings rather than data is a recipe for instability. Avoiding the Numbers: Overwhelm and intimidation often lead owners to look away from their financials. Excessive Inventory: Why your "well-stocked" warehouse might actually be a pile of trapped cash. Building Around Survival Habits: When you operate in chaos for too long, survival becomes your "normal." Mistaking Hard Work for Strategy: You can work 80-hour weeks and still have poor margins. Strategy beats effort every time. From Survival to Strength I share a real-world example from a recent one-on-one coaching call where a business owner was working for free while her team managed the profitable service components. We talk about how to break these cycles and move toward true leadership. Remember: You didn't start your business to create a job for yourself that doesn't pay you. It's time to stop playing "store" and start leading like a CEO. 5 Ways to Build Financial Health: Know Your Numbers: Specifically, know your break-even point. Clarity creates control. Consistent Financial Reviews: Stop avoiding the data. Analyze your margins and expenses regularly. Stop Buying Emotionally: Use data-driven strategies to manage your inventory. Build Cash Reserves: Start small—even just 1% of your gross margin per week—to stop the cycle of panic over unexpected expenses. Lead Like a CEO: Shift your mindset from daily operator to strategic leader. I want to challenge you this week: Take out a pen and paper. Ask yourself, "Am I financially fragile?" and identify one habit from today's episode you can commit to changing. If you're ready to stop the chaos and build an operating system designed for profit, let's get to work. Work with Me - https://www.ciarastockeland.com/work-with-meVisit the Bookstore - https://www.ciarastockeland.com/bookstoreSign Up for Free Weekly Tips and Trainings - https://www.ciarastockeland.com/subscribe

Being excellent at the work doesn't make someone excellent at leading people in the work - they're two completely different skill sets, and almost no one teaches the second. Most small businesses promote their best individual contributor into management with zero development, then wonder why it falls apart.In this episode, Kerri walks through:Why individual-contributor success and manager success are completely different skill setsThe 4 most common new-manager failure modesThe 6 core skills every manager needs: clear expectations, feedback that lands, hard conversations, real delegation, useful one-on-ones, and managing their own triggersA 4-level leadership development program you can run with no training budgetHow workforce planning + leadership development = your real succession planThe 3 tiers of a leadership pipeline — and the one conversation that builds trust and retentionYOUR ACTION ITEM: Name one person on your team with management potential right now, and schedule a conversation this week to tell them you see it.If you've just promoted a great employee into a management role — or you're about to — take the free HR Audit to see whether your people systems are actually set up to support them. → saltandlightadvisors.com/hrauditResources to keep building:

In this episode, Tasha Randle shares her journey from corporate marketing to entrepreneurship, focusing on how small businesses can unlock hidden revenue by understanding their customers deeply and refining their messaging. She discusses proven strategies from her experience at P&G and Hallmark, emphasizing the importance of consumer insights, clear benefit statements, and testing messaging through interviews and experiments.Website: https://tasharandle.com/Get FREE Profit Growth Guide: TashaRandle.com/goalcrazy

Have you ever wondered if your business is financially fragile? It's a term that might not sound very attractive, but it's a reality for thousands of small businesses—even those that look incredibly healthy from the outside. In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on why so many small business owners are quietly stressing behind closed doors. We're talking about the gap between looking successful on social media and actually having a stable, profitable foundation. In this episode, we cover: The "Financial Fragility" Trap: How a business can look busy, have customers, and show growth, yet be one slow month away from a full-on panic. Common Signs of Fragility: If you find yourself constantly transferring money between accounts, living "weekend-to-weekend," or using debt to cover operational mistakes, this episode is for you. The 6 Reasons Your Business Stays Fragile: Focusing on Sales, Not Profit: Revenue is just an illusion of success if you aren't retaining profit. Emotional Decision-Making: Buying inventory, hiring, or avoiding price increases based on feelings rather than data is a recipe for instability. Avoiding the Numbers: Overwhelm and intimidation often lead owners to look away from their financials. Excessive Inventory: Why your "well-stocked" warehouse might actually be a pile of trapped cash. Building Around Survival Habits: When you operate in chaos for too long, survival becomes your "normal." Mistaking Hard Work for Strategy: You can work 80-hour weeks and still have poor margins. Strategy beats effort every time. From Survival to Strength I share a real-world example from a recent one-on-one coaching call where a business owner was working for free while her team managed the profitable service components. We talk about how to break these cycles and move toward true leadership. Remember: You didn't start your business to create a job for yourself that doesn't pay you. It's time to stop playing "store" and start leading like a CEO. 5 Ways to Build Financial Health: Know Your Numbers: Specifically, know your break-even point. Clarity creates control. Consistent Financial Reviews: Stop avoiding the data. Analyze your margins and expenses regularly. Stop Buying Emotionally: Use data-driven strategies to manage your inventory. Build Cash Reserves: Start small—even just 1% of your gross margin per week—to stop the cycle of panic over unexpected expenses. Lead Like a CEO: Shift your mindset from daily operator to strategic leader. I want to challenge you this week: Take out a pen and paper. Ask yourself, "Am I financially fragile?" and identify one habit from today's episode you can commit to changing. If you're ready to stop the chaos and build an operating system designed for profit, let's get to work. Work with Me - https://www.ciarastockeland.com/work-with-meVisit the Bookstore - https://www.ciarastockeland.com/bookstoreSign Up for Free Weekly Tips and Trainings - https://www.ciarastockeland.com/subscribe

Most entrepreneurs are told the same thing: Grow bigger. Scale faster. Buy more. But what if that's actually the wrong goal? In this conversation, Matt Faircloth shares one of the biggest lessons from decades in business and real estate: success isn't about having the most units, the biggest company, or the flashiest lifestyle. It's about building a business that matches the life you actually want. Too many entrepreneurs chase someone else's definition of success, only to discover they've built a business they no longer enjoy. In this clip, you'll learn: • Why bigger isn't always better • The hidden downside of endless scaling • How to define success on your own terms • Why focus beats chasing shiny objects • The importance of work-life balance in entrepreneurship • Building wealth without sacrificing your life Whether you're an entrepreneur, real estate investor, business owner, founder, or someone pursuing financial freedom, this message is a powerful reminder that your business should serve your life—not the other way around. Sometimes, doing fewer deals, saying "no" more often, and focusing on what you truly enjoy leads to greater long-term success than constantly chasing the next milestone. If this message resonated with you, like the video, subscribe, and share it with another entrepreneur who needs this reminder !! Looking to build long-term wealth through multifamily real estate investing? Visit Wheelbarrow Profits to access educational resources, investment insights, and strategies for creating lasting financial freedom.

Your website traffic is dropping. Instagram reach is unpredictable. And customers are increasingly asking ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Google AI what to buy instead of clicking through search results.So why isn't AI recommending your business?In this episode, Gloria Chou explains the biggest shift happening in marketing today—and why earned media and PR have become one of the strongest signals AI uses when deciding which businesses to recommend.You'll learn:✅ Why traditional SEO alone is no longer enough ✅ How ChatGPT, Google AI Mode, and AI shopping are changing customer behavior ✅ Why PR and editorial features matter more than ever for AI visibility ✅ Why one press feature isn't enough anymore ✅ How to become a business AI recommends instead of ignores ✅ The biggest opportunity small businesses have before everyone catches onIf you're relying only on Instagram, Google rankings, or your website to attract customers, this episode will completely change how you think about marketing in the AI era.Want more people to discover, trust, and buy from your business without spending thousands on ads or a PR agency?In my free AI Visibility Masterclass, I'll show you how small business owners are using PR, media features, and credibility signals to get recommended by AI tools like ChatGPT, land press opportunities, and become the obvious choice in their industry.Watch here: www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclassJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou 

What if your pricing problem... isn't actually a pricing problem?So many business owners believe that charging more will finally solve their financial frustrations. But if you've raised your rates and still feel overworked, overwhelmed, or like you're constantly second-guessing yourself, this episode is for you.In this conversation, Melissa sits down with financial strategist and The Money Conversation author, Linda Hunt, to explore the hidden issues that keep service-based businesses stuck. From scope creep and weak boundaries to nervous system capacity and business structure, Linda shares why profitability starts long before you send the invoice.If you're ready to stop working harder for the same results and start building a business that truly supports your value, don't miss this episode.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why pricing problems often aren't pricing problems at all• The real reason raising your rates doesn't always increase profits• How your business structure impacts your confidence and decision-making• Why scope creep is a symptom, not the root problem• What nervous system capacity has to do with running a successful business• How to create a business that supports sustainable growth instead of burnoutConnect with Linda Hunt:Website: https://www.sumsolutions.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindaahunt/Book: The Money Conversation: Speak the Truth. Set the Standard. Get Paid Without Apology.Ready to become the go-to option in your industry?If you're wondering whether your marketing, messaging, website, or Google presence is helping, or hurting, your visibility, schedule a Visibility Audit with Melissa.Together, you'll uncover what's working, what's holding you back, and the next best steps to grow your business with confidence.If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another business owner who needs to hear this conversation.Your GO-TO LINK for all things Visibility-: Google Business Profile Optimization, The Website + Social Media Audit, The Visibility Blueprint, Newsletter, & Referral Partners.Love today's podcast?

Insurance paperwork is delaying treatment for patients who don't have time to wait. One founder built a company to fix it.In this entrepreneur interview, Dr. Joshua Upshaw — founder and CEO of Hidalgo Technologies and a PhD in cognitive neuroscience — shares how a family health crisis pushed him from academic research into healthcare entrepreneurship, why he trusts his gut more than any spreadsheet, and how he built his team around mission alignment instead of resumes.Whether you're still validating your first idea or figuring out who belongs on your founding team, this conversation will change how you think about intuition, feedback, and timing.Chapters: 0:00 Cold Open: Trust Your Gut 0:22 Welcome to the Startup Junkies Podcast 1:02 What Is Hidalgo Technologies? Fixing Insurance Prior Authorization 1:54 From Neuroscience to Health Tech: Josh's Origin Story 2:59 The Family Story That Sparked Hidalgo Tech 5:35 Why Josh Calls Himself a Problem Solver, Not a Scientist 8:57 Validating the Problem Through Customer Discovery 11:36 Building the Team: Finding the Right Technical Lead 14:55 Why Mission Alignment Matters More Than Skill 16:10 Handling Feedback, Ego, and Doubt as a Founder 19:00 Following Your Gut: Sifting Signal From Noise 21:09 Who Hidalgo Tech's Ideal Customer Is 21:56 Funding the Company: NSF Grants & Raising Capital 25:32 The Next Five Years for Hidalgo Tech 26:23 Advice to His Younger SelfAbout Joshua Upshaw: Founder and CEO of Hidalgo Technologies, reducing administrative overhead in insurance prior authorization so patients get treatment sooner. PhD in cognitive neuroscience and an alum of the University of Arkansas's New Venture Development program and Health Tech Arkansas. Connect with Joshua: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-upshaw-ph-d/Website: https://hidalgatech.com/

Anika sits down with Dr. Mickey Fitch Collins to expose the leadership development trap most companies fall into, uncover the psychological safety crisis silently burning out middle managers, and reveal the counterintuitive secret to sustainable organizations: it's never about the strategy. It's about the people executing it—and whether they feel confident enough to show up as their whole selves.In This EpisodeBass fishing to breakout rooms: How 30 years of professional fishing taught her more about leadership than any MBA—and why early public speaking shaped her entire careerThe leadership development gap: Why companies wait until burnout is critical to invest in leaders, and the cost of reactive vs. proactive developmentMiddle manager isolation: The push-pull stress of serving two masters, losing peer relationships, and why leaders are abandoned once they "make it"Psychological safety as the foundation: Why you can't build better leaders without first creating spaces where people can be honest, vulnerable, and wholeThe burnout epidemic: How the WHO classifies burnout as a health concern, and why control-based work models are burning people outRemote work and trust: Why flexible work aligned with individual needs enhances motivation, and why monitoring software is the opposite of trustLearn It Lounge podcast: Building community among L&D professionals by sharing authentic problem-solving storiesThe giving phase: What's next for Mickey—coaching, speaking, and helping others grow while designing a life centered around familyTimestamps00:00 Introduction: From pro bass fisherman to leadership facilitator06:23 Why she left higher education after 20 years and a PhD08:00 The pandemic pivot: From C-suite to corporate learning and development16:00 The most common breakdown when companies scale: Delayed leadership investment20:20 Why outsiders and consultants bring objective credibility24:30 The push-pull of middle management and burnout30:31 Psychological safety as the antidote to burnout34:32 Work models and control vs. trust: Why flexible work beats surveillance38:26 How Learn It Lounge started and what's next for MickeyKey Insights & TakeawaysInsight 1: Leadership Is a Learnable Skill, Not Innate ExpertiseBeing a great founder, engineer, or visionary doesn't automatically make you a great people manager. Leadership—coaching, vision-casting, conflict resolution, delegation—is a skill set that must be built. The organizations that win are the ones that invest in emerging leaders before they're in crisis mode, not after.Insight 2: Proactive Development Beats Reactive InterventionCompanies that delay leadership investment until burnout, turnover, or conflict forces their hand end up spending 3-4x more on reactive solutions. The smartest organizations identify rising stars early and develop skill sets before people are drowning.Insight 3: Psychological Safety Is the Foundation of EverythingYou cannot build better leaders, improve communication, or increase engagement without psychological safety. When people can admit mistakes and be vulnerable without fear, they stop wearing masks and performing—and that's when real growth happens.Insight 4: Control-Based Work Models Are the Opposite of TrustStrict hours, in-office mandates, and monitoring software send one message: "I don't trust you." When organizations care for the whole human—flexible work, autonomy, trust—they get higher motivation, lower turnover, and higher profitability. The research is clear.Insight 5: Storytelling Creates Meaning Beyond DataWe make decisions with data, but we make meaning with stories. In the age of AI and critical thinking, storytelling and authentic presence are just as important as problem-solving skills.Resources & Links MentionedLearn Ithttps://www.learnit.com/Learn It Lounge Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-learnit-lounge/id1817436348Conversations with L&D professionals sharing authentic problem-solving stories and best practicesAbout Dr. Mickey Fitch CollinsDr. Mickey Fitch Collins is a leadership facilitator and learning strategist at Learn It, specializing in leadership self-efficacy and building confident leaders. With a PhD in Leadership and Higher Education, a master's degree in Counseling and Student Personnel, and a bachelor's degree in Psychology, Mickey spent 20 years in higher education leadership before transitioning to corporate learning and development during the pandemic.Her unique origin story includes 30 years of professional bass fishing experience—competing at the national level with 30+ sponsors, speaking at expos and on radio and TV. This early experience shaped her public speaking confidence, marketing acumen, and deep understanding of leadership in male-dominated environments.Connect with Dr. Mickey Fitch CollinsLearn It Website: https://www.learnit.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickeyfitchcollins/Open to: Coaching, speaking engagements, and mentoring emerging leadersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Headline: AI Productivity vs. Headcount in the Small Business Sector Guest: Gene Marks Marks argues that AI is not replacing workers but rather increasing productivity for existing staff. He highlights innovative applications like the "AI Shop Advisor" at The Vitamin Shoppe and automated inventory management tools like Zenput. Small businesses continue to face a shortage of labor. (12)

Preview for Later Today: Gene Marks reports on the healthy state of American small businesses, citing data from QuickBooks and Clover showing increased revenues and job growth. He notes that positive economic news often struggles for media attention.